Name: Kevin Parsons
Title: President
Company: Parsons Bros. Rock Retaining Walls
Type of Business:
Subcontractor specializing in construction of retaining walls from natural rock
Location: Las Vegas
Years in Nevada: 13
Years with Company: 29
Biggest Business Challenge:
Like many subcontractors in Southern Nevada, struggling with the exorbitant costs and limited availability of insurance is a real source of frustration.
What do you like best about your job?
When the work is complete, it is very satisfying to see the finished product. Because our walls are made from natural rock, they complement the landscape and add to the aesthetic beauty of each project.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
I enjoy writing short stories and riding desert racing motorcycles.
What would you like your legacy to be?
That people remember the quality and integrity to which I have been committed throughout the lifetime of my business.
Favorite Business Book:
How to Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive, by Harvey Mackay
Best Business Advice:
Take care of the customer.
Name: Peggy Smith
Title: President/CEO
Company: Hands Ink Advertising/PS Media LLC
Type of Business: Advertising, marketing, public relations, media
Location: Las Vegas
Years in Nevada: 26
Years with Company: 16
Biggest Business Challenge:
In this very competitive business climate, to always be professional and do what is right for clients, employees and vendors.
What do you like about your job?
Having the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, and helping them grow their businesses through my expertise.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
Reading, going to movies and concerts, traveling and serving various local charities.
What would you like your legacy to be?
That Peggy Smith did her best for her family and the community and always had a positive outlook, even though life is challenging.
Favorite Business Book:
The One Minute Millionaire, by Mark Victor Hansen and Robert G. Allen.
Best Business Advice:
Trust your instincts. Be honest with yourself and others. Have a plan, have a goal and be flexible.
Name: John Restrepo
Title: Principal
Company: Restrepo Consulting Group LLC
Type of Business: Regional economic and real estate consulting
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Years in Nevada: 14
Years with Company: 6
Biggest Business Challenge:
Managing the firm’s growth, while continuing to maintain personal contact with all of our clients.
What do you like best about your job?
The excitement of working closely with our clients in developing effective solutions to their business needs, coupled with exceeding our clients’ expectations and working with our dedicated and creative staff.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
Traveling, dining out and reading.
What would you like your legacy to be?
From a business standpoint, that I: provided the quality of service expected by our clients; developed individual initiative among my staff and helped them fulfill their potential; and that I fostered a sense of teamwork among my staff and with the Southern Nevada community. From a personal standpoint, that my family knew I tried to do my best for them in the broadest sense of the word.
Favorite Business Book:
The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It, by Michael E. Gerber
Best Business Advice:
Be true to yourself and money will follow. Don’t ever sacrifice your personal integrity or reputation under any circumstances.