“I would tell myself to not be complacent and be willing to leave your existing comfort zone. Take risks—those risks can lead to greater opportunity.” Eric Speer | General Manager Las Vegas Office, Logical Position “Unless you are absolutely passionate about your career role and can’t bear to exit, upgrade your position every five years. Change spurs growth. Keep building … [Read more...]
What is the biggest challenge facing Nevada?
“In my efforts to attract new companies to Nevada, the biggest challenge has been our education system. It is hard to compete with other states when we are ranked next to last on a nationwide level.” Mike Hillis, SIOR | Prinicpal, Avision Young “Nevada’s biggest challenge is convincing the world that this is a great place to live. Our city has made an amazing recovery and … [Read more...]
What Makes You Proud to Be an American?
“The everlasting ideals cast down by our forefathers continue to secure America’s plight; portrayed in our longstanding heritage in our American cities (be it farm, rural or industrial towns) which embodies the heart of our great country – all of which makes me proud.” Deven Chase | Managing Partner and Realtor, Elite Homes US “Though our country is not perfect, one of the … [Read more...]
What is the most memorable lesson your father taught you?
“Work ethic. As a small business owner himself, I saw my father work long hours to maintain his client relationships. I didn’t realize it then, but this was setting an example that I follow today.” Ryan Martina, PLS | President, M² Geomatics “My dad taught me that taking risks could never result in a failure. If I failed at something, it was the absolute best education I … [Read more...]
If Decades Were to Repeat Themselves, Which One Would You Look Forward to Most?
“The 90’s. The shift in our world with the advent of the Internet, cell phones and MP3 music was transformative to our whole society. (I might buy Apple stock too.)” Stephen Ranck, AIA, LEED AP | Principal/Managing Director, Gensler “Turbulent 30’s pops out at me. The reason being is that tough times create BIG opportunities for those willing to swim against the tide. Also, … [Read more...]
What’s Your Perfect Day?
“A perfect day is when I hear of a Leadership Henderson alumnus using the tools they received from our program to make a difference in our community. Seeing the impact of their efforts is a great feeling.” Natalie Buckel | Leadership Henderson Director, Henderson Chamber of Commerce “A perfect day on the job is when I have the opportunity to visit our job sites and … [Read more...]
What has been your most memorable milestone in business?
“The most memorable milestone in my career was contributing to the rebranding of Desert Passage to Miracle Mile Shops in 2007 and offering customers a fresh look with new stores, restaurants and entertainment experiences.” Wendy Albert | Senior Director of Marketing, Miracle Mile Shops “We were awarded the contract at the Springs Preserve in March of 2014. The last two years … [Read more...]
What is the Most Significant Change You Have Seen in Your Lifetime?
“I remember as a child getting a telephone. Our number was 779 and the operator connected you to the person you wanted to call. Fast forward 65 years and look where we are today. Technology has revolutionized how we communicate, how we interact, how we conduct business and how we live.” Shelley Berkley | CEO and Senior Provost, Touro University Nevada “The day the fax machine … [Read more...]
What is your New Year’s resolution?
“Ricky Gervais said it best, ‘I want to keep working out so that I can eat more cheese and drink more wine!’ But I also want to spend less time on my phone and more time connecting with those around me.” Jessica Rabbo | Owner, Core Studios “My New Year’s Resolution is to have more fun with my family, lower my carbon footprint, help my clients’ develop and implement their … [Read more...]
What Changes do you Expect 2016 to Bring for Nevada?
“Nevada should expect continued economic strengthening, especially from new construction developments, a rise in our national education ranking, massive turnover in the Legislature and legalized recreational marijuana in 2016.” Erica Harvey | Director of Operations, Radman Hospitality “2016 is going to be great for Southern Nevada. Thanks to the ego-humbling recession, we … [Read more...]
What are You Most Thankful For?
“I am thankful that God blessed me with the most amazing wife and two amazing and beautiful kids. I am thankful that, beyond any doubt whatsoever, I have received far more in life than I deserve.” Chris Flocchini | President and CEO, Sierra Meat and Seafood “I am most thankful for the opportunity to work for a loyal membership and to work with dedicated individuals that make … [Read more...]
What Do You Think of the Presidential Candidates Thus Far?
“This is the strongest field of conservative candidates in years. I see wisdom, integrity and executive experience, which makes me hopeful that our country will lead from strength once again.” Derek Neider | Senior Pastor Calvary Chapel Spring Valley “To date, it appears we Americans have a tough job ahead of us in electing a new leader. There are a number of tough issues on … [Read more...]
If you could live in a television show, what show would it be?
“I’d like to live in ‘West Wing’ or ‘House of Cards’, although I may need to rethink the latter because a lot of people die unexpectedly…” Katie Ryan | Director, Communications and Public Policy, Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican “‘Dr. Who’ – Not because I’m a sci-fi fan, but who wouldn’t want to travel into the future and back into the past, and maybe have some impact along … [Read more...]
What is Your Personal Mission Statement?
“It is my mission in life to create wonderful long lasting personal relationships. To live with integrity, honesty & unconditional love; And to never lose sight of what is important; family.” Kathy O’Grady Watkins | Partner, Sutton Watkins Advertising & Marketing, Inc. “Make someone else’s life better by what you do.” Matthew T. Dushoff, Esq. | Shareholder Kolesar … [Read more...]
What does it mean to be an American?
“This country was built by immigrants and those who gave their lives for the opportunity to live the American Dream. As a Chinese immigrant, U.S. Veteran and entrepreneur, I feel a debt of gratitude to those who paved the way for free enterprise. I’m truly living the American Dream and am proud to be an American.” Sinan “Stanley” Hu | Founder LIUID “Being American means … [Read more...]
What are Some of the Misconceptions that Non-Nevadans Have About People Who Live in Nevada?
“That we’re always playing blackjack in our free time. In reality, Nevada is blessed with tremendous outdoor activities, the year-round weather to enjoy them, and plenty of opportunities for cultural learning beyond the casino doors.” Rory T. Kay | Attorney, McDonald Carano Wilson, LLP (Hails from: Lincoln, NE) “It’s not just misconceptions as much as it is people thinking … [Read more...]
How Will Senator Harry Reid’s Retirement Affect Nevada?
“The state got a lot of recognition in Washington but what long-term projects did he bring to Nevada while in office? Nevada is better off without him, we can do much better.” Jeffrey Lowden | President, Sky West Real Estate Services “Senator Harry Reid’s retirement will have a profound effect on our state. It will take years to accumulate the power and prestige Senator … [Read more...]
What’s the Good News/Bad News About Living in Nevada?
“The good news is the positive economic outlook we are experiencing in Northern Nevada. Hotel rooms are booked and new businesses are opening their doors. The bad news is that we need more snow/water!” Tim Holland | Sales Executive, LP Insurance Services, Inc. “Nevada has a rich history of philanthropy. We live in a very generous, supportive community; however, there are far … [Read more...]
How Do You Know You Have the Right Employees?
“When employees live and breathe your core values. When employees put the team, company and customer above themselves, that’s how you know you have the right people.” Kelsey Martin | Director of People and Culture, Bristlecone Holdings “You know you have the right employees when you can see that people are excited about what they do. When people enjoy their work they have … [Read more...]
Are You Optimistic That Our Legislators Will Work Together This Session?
“I am optimistic they will come together. Once the session commences, the realization usually sets in, that they were elected to do the people’s business and most understand that involves compromise.” Carole Vilardo | President, Nevada Taxpayers Association - “With internal leadership struggles appearing to now be behind us, policymakers can now get down to business and … [Read more...]
