“In my mind, I am ambitious and motivated, confident and optimistic, outgoing and sociable, persistent but affable; however, I am quite sure that there are those out there with less charitable opinions!” Jeff Northrup, SVP Pre-construction | SR Construction “Optimism. I always try to look at the glass half full, be positive, grateful and see the good in all things. Be … [Read more...]
Do You Think Nevada Is Still a Tax Friendly State?
“Absolutely! Living in Nevada with no state income tax is a big deal. Especially for Californians who are sick and tired of paying considerably more income tax on their hard earned income.” Mike Mixer, Executive Managing Director | Las Vegas, Colliers International “Nevada is certainly still a tax friendly state, especially as compared to states like California where we moved … [Read more...]
If You Could Witness Any Event of the Past, Present or Future, What Would It Be?
“[I would want to witness] the signing of the Constitution to see the resolve and optimism of the brave people who created this country and put into motion the liberties we all hold so dear.” Ken Johnson, Executive VP, Business Development | Valley Electric Association “[I would want to witness] the day our country required education for children. Could we have known then how … [Read more...]
What Area Do You Think Nevada Could Improve?
“[Nevada could improve at] bringing in more businesses that are non-gaming related to generate more salaried positions. We have brought in Amazon, Switch and Tesla. We definitely need more.” Dawn Houlf, Owner/Real Estate Coach and Mentor | EXIT Realty Number One “In Nevada, it’s water - either lack of, or abundance of. In Northern Nevada, it’s flooding. Flooding endangers … [Read more...]
What Is a Skill You’d like to Learn?
“I have always admired the classic cars that cruise through the streets in our community. I decided this last year to refurbish a vehicle with my son. The process was rigorous, but I can’t wait to learn more.” Mike Whan, Executive Director | Hot August Nights “I’d like to master the core mindfulness skill of presence, i.e., the art of disengaging from my busy mind to shift … [Read more...]
What Do You See as Nevada’s Best Asset?
“I believe that Nevada’s best asset is our unique approach to both opportunities and challenges. We possess an entrepreneurial spirit combined with an openness to reinvention. We’re not wed to our past.” Mark Haley, President | Smart City Networks “Nevada’s best asset is its people – those who come from other places and those born here. Our collective spirit of adventure, … [Read more...]
What Teacher Had the Most Impact on You?
“My father, Professor Rogers, always shared his passion for business strategy and leadership with me. He encouraged me to strive for excellence and lead by example. The businesswoman I am today is because of him.” Akilah Rogers, General Manager | Opendoor Las Vegas “Mr. Peterson, AP English. He glued ducks’ feet to the ceiling, which made it seem like we were under … [Read more...]
What Industry in Nevada Has the Most Potential for Growth?
“Healthcare Informatics: Millennials are quick to recognize solutions and this new field fits with the improvements needed in the healthcare system. Informatics uses the process design and implements technology for efficiencies. All you need is the staff willing to take it on.” Rachel Papka, Chief Health Informatics Officer | Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging “Tourism and … [Read more...]
How Did You Meet Your Significant Other?
“I met my husband through Nevada Business Magazine! My PR firm ran an advertorial 18 years ago, and he came across the article. He told one of our clients he wanted an introduction to me, and the rest is history. I credit the magazine with my marriage and two daughters!” Holly Silvestri, Partner | The Ferraro Group “On business in Portland one morning, I had forgotten to pack … [Read more...]
What Is on Your “Bucket List” to Accomplish in 2018?
“To share the lessons of hope, resilience, and renewal I saw time and again in hard-hit Nevada communities in 2017 with all communities around the state in 2018.” Caleb S. Cage | Chief, Nevada Division of Emergency Management “Professionally I’m excited to watch Nevada continue to grow in 2018 and look forward to counting the construction cranes. Personally, I’m most excited … [Read more...]
In the History of the United States, Who Was Your Favorite President?
“JFK – Even in difficult times, like the Cuban Missile Crisis, he used judgment and restraint to protect us from a serious war. He persevered through health issues and his speeches rallied people to break down cultural barriers.” Farhan Naqvi | Managing Partner Naqvi Injury Law “Lyndon Johnson – He was thrust into office after Kennedy’s assassination and his leadership at that … [Read more...]
What Are You Most Thankful For?
“[I’m thankful for] my son! I can have the most stressful day and then when I see him, he inevitably will make me smile. Who can resist smiling at a 5-year-old reenacting his favorite scene from the Batman Lego movie?” Jennifer Braster | Managing Partner Naylor & Braster Attorneys at Law “I am truly thankful for the great relationships and friendships I make each season. … [Read more...]
Last Word: What Business Book Would You Recommend to Others?
“Now, Discover Your Strengths” by Marcus Buckingham & Donald O. Clifton, Ph.D. “It’s important to know who you are and what your strengths are as a business leader. This book helps develop that understanding so you can focus on building those skills while mitigating weaknesses.” Daniel Pearce | GM, Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. at Treasure Island “Leadership: … [Read more...]
What Is the Most Significant Change You’ve Seen in Nevada?
“The most significant changes I’ve witnessed is the evolution of our community and state to accommodate the arts, energy, technology and other great industries!” Valerie Clark | President, Clark & Associates (24 years in Nevada) “One of the greatest things I’ve seen is Southern Nevada’s evolution into a true entertainment destination. We now have world-class restaurants … [Read more...]
If You Had to Choose Another Career What Would It Be?
“I would be a national talk show host so that I could interview people from every walk of life and hear their amazing stories to inspire hope. Everyone has a story.” Fafie Moore | Executive Vice President Southern Nevada, ERA Brokers Consolidated “I would choose to coach soccer. I’ve played the sport for over 40 years and have coached at many levels. Skills and lessons … [Read more...]
Do you think Nevada legislators accomplished what they needed to this session?
“The 2017 Legislature’s focus, unfortunately, created greater challenges to Nevada businesses. Through the efforts of the Governor, along with represented business interests, the effect on businesses was mitigated.” Aviva Gordon | Chair, Henderson Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Committee “Not if the best future for our children is accomplished through providing the … [Read more...]
What Do You Most Enjoy About Being a Local?
“To me, growing up and living in the Valley has always been about the outdoors. The opportunities we have to spend time outdoors, with such great venues as Red Rock, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, Mt. Charleston, all just minutes away, is very important to me.” Paul E. Valentine, PE | Director of Nevada Operations, The WLB Group, Inc. “Las Vegas has so much to offer! I actually … [Read more...]
Which Nevadan Do You Most Respect?
“The Nevadan I most respect is former Governor Kenny Guinn for his honesty, integrity, his ability to relate to everyone and, most of all, his ability to bring opposing sides to compromise.” Bernadette Mashas | CPA, Tax Partner Fair, Anderson & Langerman “I have always admired what LVCVA President & CEO Rossi Ralenkotter has achieved for the Las Vegas tourism industry … [Read more...]
What Business Resource Do You Wish You Had More Of?
“Non-profits can always use more support which furthers the organization’s impact. Support from generous donors and trustees who believe in your mission, and support of members and visitors who value the museum enough to visit.” Tifferney White | CEO and President, Discovery Children’s Museum “Having been in business in Southern Nevada for 30 years, I would like to have … [Read more...]
If You Could Make a Sentence Long Speech to the Entire World, What Would You Say?
“Do what you love, live well, love well, drink honest wines, eat your veggies and root for the underdog.” Shaji Matthew | Owner, Terra Vigna “‘Announcing your plans is a good way to hear God laugh.’ – Al Swearengen, Deadwood TV Series” Karen Baresell | CEO, United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra “Leaders are tasked with making important decisions each day, some will … [Read more...]
