Chamber Helps Pass Landmark Education Funding Plan Page 12 HOW DO YOU REWARD GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE?

Q&A 2019 End of Session Highlights LVCVA CEO and President Steve Hill Page 16 Page 6 Chamber Helps Pass Landmark Education Funding Plan Page 12 HOW DO YOU REWARD GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE?

Customer Service Excellence is a free turnkey program that helps you recognize the customer service all-stars in your business.

• Easy ways to nominate • Recognition programs and ceremonies • Customer and staff engagement materials provided

NOMINATE SOMEONE TODAY AT LVCHAMBER.COM/CSE

For more information on enrolling your company in the program, visit LVChamber.com or call 702.641.5822.

Program Partners: MARY BETH SEWALD PRESIDENT & CEO

ngaging on issues important to the future compromises to bills impacting our businesses. of businesses and our community is at The Las Vegas Chamber was also instrumental in the core of what the Las Vegas Metro passing the new K-12 funding formula that brings greater E Chamber does. This issue of the Business transparency to how money is allocated to our schools. Voice highlights some important ways we This is the first time in 52 years that the funding formula are staying true to that mission. has been changed. This new plan recognizes changes in student population and provides more funding to The Q&A with Steve Hill, CEO and President of the Las help our students succeed. You can read an interview Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is with Senators Joyce Woodhouse and Mo Denis, Nevada focused on one of the most exciting and innovative Superintendent of Public Instruction Jhone Ebert, and projects in our state: the construction of a new economic analyst Jeremy Aguero in this magazine that underground transportation system by The Boring highlights the benefits of this new funding plan. Company as part of the Las Vegas Convention Center expansion. This project, developed by Elon Musk, is the Additionally, the Chamber stood strong to pass several first of its kind in the world, and can be a game-changer Southern Nevada priorities including funding for the new when it comes to finding solutions to our transportation health sciences building at College of Southern Nevada challenges on the Strip corridor. and Nevada State College, as well as an education building at NSC. And in the end, the Chamber was able Also inside, you will find a summary of the critical role to get funding for a new engineering building at UNLV. the Metro Chamber played during the 2019 Legislature. All these projects are good for workforce training and When the 120-day legislative session began, there were will be drivers of our economy. several proposals that, if passed in their original form, would have enacted regulations that would have been Finally, we are excited to announce an unprecedented very harmful to our small businesses. partnership with the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance on part of our annual trip to Washington, D.C. Throughout the session, the Chamber regularly It brings the state’s two largest business and economic convened representatives from a wide range of development organizations together to create an industries so that the business community spoke with a even stronger voice on behalf of Nevada. If you are a united voice. And Chamber leaders, including Chairman President’s Club member, I encourage you to be part Terry Shirey, Government Affairs Chairman Hugh of our Washington, D.C. Fly-in September 8 to 13. It is Anderson, and I regularly met with Governor Sisolak and an effective way you can join with peer leaders as we legislative leaders, especially Assembly Speaker Jason advocate for federal priorities our state needs to grow Frierson, and Senator Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro and thrive. to keep lines of communication open. In the end, these conversations were beneficial in finding reasonable

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 3 Local journalism makes a difference.

A colleague told me about a Business Voice man who was brought to tears VOLUME 40 NUMBER 6 talking about the Moulin Rouge property as he gave her a tour. Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce I knew I wanted to interview 575 Symphony Park Avenue, Ste. 100 Las Vegas, NV 89106 him about what the long-closed 702.641.5822 • LVChamber.com hotel-casino meant to him and Mary Beth Sewald why. To Deverynn Bryant and President & CEO Katherine Duncan, this property Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce

was an opportunity to repair 2019 Board of Trustees Rachel Aston Trustees Past Chairpersons race relations. After it burned Executive Committee on Oct. 5, I added audio from Terrance Shirey Joseph Asher Berlyn Miller 1979 Chairman William Hill US a town hall meeting where Nevada State Bank Phil Arce 1984 Brandon Barkhuff community members still spoke Tom Burns NV Energy Elaina Blake 1985 Chair-Elect Dave Vlaming 1986 Cragin & Pike Lisa Beckley of bringing it back. Why does The Beckley Group Jeffrey A. Silver 1988 Michael Bolognini the government not invest in Immediate Past Chairman Danielle Bisterfeldt Peter Thomas 1989 The Howard Hughes Corporation the Historic Westside in a way Cox Communications William Martin 1991 Michael Bonner Hugh Anderson Bob Maxey 1992 that benefits the area? People HighTower Las Vegas Greenberg Traurig, LLC Denny Weddle 1993 at that meeting echoed what Jay Barrett Bob Brown The JABarrett Company Opportunity Village David Smith 1994 Deverynn had already spoken Gina Bongiovi Senator Richard Bryan Ted Wiens, Jr. 1995 Fennemore Craig of. They believe officials and Bongiovi Law Firm John O’Reilly 1996 Kerry Bubolz Betsy Fretwell Diane Dickerson 1997 the larger community don’t Switch Vegas Golden Knights Edward Crispell 1998 care to preserve their history or John Guedry Tyler Corder Bank of Nevada Findlay Automotive Bill Wells 2001 assist in their struggles. I hope Lori Nelson-Kraft Michael Dominguez Jay Kornmayer 2002 Las Vegas Convention and Lou Emmert 2003 someone will see the film and Visitors Authority Michael Feder Dickinson-Wright, PLLC Tim Cashman 2004 decide to help the Westside in Bill Noonan Boyd Gaming Corporation Jeff Grace Hugh Anderson 2005 some way, even if that never NetEffect Ellen Schulhofer John Wilcox 2006 Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck Lisa Howfield brings back the Moulin Rouge. KLAS-TV Fafie Moore2008 Bruce Spotleson Steve Hill 2009 Neon Museum Gregory Lee Eureka Casino Resort Kristin McMillan 2010 Ryan Woodward National Technical Institute Rex Liu Michael Bonner 2011 Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Production Team Kevin Orrock 2012 Napoleon McCallum Jay Barrett 2013 Joyce Goedeke The Las Vegas Sands Corporation Publisher/Editor Bill Nelson Bruce Spotleson 2014 Piercy Bowler Taylor & Kern Bob Brown 2015 Las Vegas Review-Journal Cara Clarke Editor Boyd Nelson John Guedry 2016 Digital-Only Subscriptions Southwest Gas Corporation Pomai Weall Bill Noonan 2017 Brig. Gen. Robert Novotny Production Coordinator/ Michael Bolognini 2018 Unlimited Web, Mobile And E-Edition Access Contributor Nellis Air Force Base Noel Gonzalez Karla Perez Graphic Designer Valley Health System Jim Prather Introductory Offer Las Vegas Review-Journal Mark Shearer 99¢ Per Month For Raiders The Business Voice Larry Singer (USPS #717-970) is published by Newmark Knight Frank First 2 Months The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce. Vicky VanMeetren 575 Symphony Park Ave., Ste. 100 Roseman University of Health Sciences Las Vegas, NV 89106 Chris Wilcox $8.99 Per Month Annual Subscription $25 Eide Bailly LLP Periodical postage paid at Las Vegas, NV Thereafter. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Cancel Anytime. The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce, 575 Symphony Park Ave., Ste. 100 Las Vegas, NV 89106 Reviewjournal.com/Subscribe

EDITORIAL POLICY: The Business Voice is a member newsletter of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce. The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce welcomes input, ideas and suggestions from our members. As with any periodical, we must adhere to strict deadlines and we reserve the right to edit all materials submitted for publication. Commentaries that are marked as such do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of the Chamber, its trustees or employees. The Chamber cannot guarantee the validity or accuracy of the contents of paid advertisements. Questions or concerns about content of the Business Voice can be addressed to Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy, Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce, 575 Symphony Park Avenue, Suite 100, Las Vegas, NV 89106. Table of Contents 12 CHAMBER HELPS PASS LANDMARK EDUCATION FUNDING PLAN JULY 2019

6 Q&A LVCVA CEO and President, Steve Hill

8 Welcome New Chamber Team Members

10 Your Scene | You're Seen

12 Chamber Helps Pass Landmark Education Funding Plan

16 2019 End of Session Highlights 06 16 Q&A LVCVA CEO AND PRESIDENT STEVE HILL 2019 END OF SESSION HIGHLIGHTS 24 What's Happening

25 Board of Trustee Spotlights

26 Committee Corner

28 President's Club Spotlights

30 Access Las Vegas 32 Member News 25 26 34 Ribbon Cuttings BOARD OF TRUSTEE SPOTLIGHTS COMMITTEE CORNER

36 Lunch with Sheriff

38 Welcome New Members

40 VYP: Creating Your High Conversion Site

42 Revitalization of Shade Tree

44 Public Policy Leadership Series

46 Jobs Outlook, Provided by 32 34 40 Nevada State Bank MEMBER NEWS RIBBON CUTTINGS VYP: YOUR HIGH CONVERSION SITE

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 5 Q&A: LVCVA CEO Steve Hill Shares Latest on Convention Center Expansion This year marks the 60th What are some of the Las Vegas Convention anniversary of the Las Center Loop’s highlights? Vegas Convention Center. The Las Vegas Convention Center Loop is slated to highlight Can you tell us about that three underground passenger stations, a pedestrian tunnel and give us an update on and two vehicular tunnels with an expected total length of the expansion project? approximately one mile. What we can expect ahead? The underground loop system offers less disruption to The Las Vegas Convention Center pedestrian and vehicle traffic and maximizes passenger and (LVCC) opened its doors on April pedestrian safety. The loop will be designed for ridership of at 12, 1959 with 150,000 square feet least 4,400 passengers per hour and is scalable depending on to attract the business traveler Las Vegas Convention Center attendance. Ground is scheduled to the destination during the to be broken this Fall and will serve as The Boring Company’s slow, mid-week period. Today, first application open for public use. the tourism industry continues to be crucial to Southern Nevada’s There’s always a lot happening in Las Vegas. economy generating $58 billion in total economic impact, What else is on the horizon? supporting approximately 368,000 jobs and $15.7 billion in In addition to all of the great amenities and offerings by our local wages and salaries. These jobs represent 38 percent of resort partners, we are focused on attracting more large-scale Southern Nevada’s total workforce. special events to the destination. Southern Nevada recently secured hosting the 2020 NFL Draft. The annual Las Vegas Currently in the midst of an expansion as well as a renovation Bowl continues to evolve with matchup of a Pac-12 school of the current facility, the Las Vegas Convention Center will against either Big Ten or Southeastern Conference team, not to span 200 acres when complete in time for CES in January 2021. mention the pending opening of The Las Vegas Stadium that The project will add 600,000 square feet of exhibit space, new will allow for bigger events to be hosted in Southern Nevada. meeting rooms and other amenities to the existing 3.2 million Las Vegas is now positioned to host the likes of the Super Bowl, square feet. Final Four, college football playoffs, championship games, and major concerts that we were unable to host in the past due to The $1.4 billion Las Vegas Convention Center expansion limited facility capacity. Attracting more events to Southern project is expected to support nearly 14,000 construction jobs Nevada is yet another opportunity to drive tourism. and nearly 7,800 full-time permanent jobs upon completion. Additionally, the expansion will generate an additional $2.1 billion in economic activity during construction and upon completion will have an annual incremental economic impact of $810 million while attracting more than 600,000 visitors each year.

Our city is constantly evolving and we love to see what innovation the LVCVA is next exploring. What is the status of the LVCVA’s collaboration with Elon Musk’s The Boring Company for a people mover at the Las Vegas Convention Center? Once again, Las Vegas leads the way in continuing to elevate the visitor experience utilizing innovation, such as with The Boring Company transportation collaboration for an underground autonomous electric vehicle people mover.

The LVCVA Board of Directors recently approved a $48,675,000 contract with Elon Musk’s The Boring Company to design and construct a people mover for the Las Vegas Convention Center, referred to as the LVCC Loop, that could rapidly and safely carry passengers via a loop of underground express-route tunnels. Attendees walking the expanded convention center from end to end would log approximately 1.5 miles creating the need for an on-property guest transportation solution for our 1.5 million annual guests. Furthermore, the LVCC Loop has the potential to provide future connectivity from Downtown Las Vegas through the resort corridor and extend to McCarran International Airport to potentially serve as another transportation solution for our 42 million annual visitors.

6 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE It matters who you share perspective with. IT MATTERS WHO YOU BANK WITH®

Do you know the latest economic trends? We do. Nevada State Bank retains the talented team at Applied Analysis to summarize and analyze a series of key economic indicators monthly in our Economic Briefing. Get the latest perspective on new business creation, employment rates, personal income growth, housing prices, tourism stats and more. The Economic Briefing is just one of the many free resources available at NevadaSmallBusiness.com

A division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Member FDIC Welcome New Chamber Team Members Workforce development is consistently a high priority for all employers in Nevada. The Las Vegas Chamber works closely with its community partners to recruit, develop and hire top talent to serve, promote and support Chamber members. The Las Vegas Chamber is proud to welcome these new team members to the Chamber family

Chandler Faggiano Customer Service Excellence (CSE) Coordinator Hailing from Spokane, Washington, Chandler Faggiano comes to the Las Vegas Chamber with experience in customer relations, communications and event execution. Faggiano’s most recent experience was with MGM Resorts Luxor Hotel and Casino, where she was a marketing specialist for the past year. She also served as a guest experience specialist in her time at Luxor, where she coordinated employee training activities, managed customer relations, guest inquiries/complaints and executed guest surveys/satisfaction reports. Before that, Faggiano was a front desk agent at Excalibur. During Faggiano’s time at MGM, she was fortunate enough to be a part of the CSE program and receive the Gold achievement in Customer Service Excellence twice.

Dream vacation destination? My dream vacation destination would be The Maldives or anywhere in Europe. Noel Gonzalez Graphic Designer/Videographer Noel Gonzalez earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Las Vegas. A graphic designer since 2011, Gonzalez has crafted custom logos, marketing materials, front end web design, mobile and tablet interface designs and much more. Gonzalez also has videography experience and looks BASKETBALL forward to honing his skills even further in this role. His clients have included, but are not limited to: Ford, Regional Flood Control District, Regional Transportation Commission and Summerlin/Downtown Summerlin to name a few. Prior to that, IS BACK! Gonzalez was a graphic designer at Roberston+Partners Advertising, Scientific Games (Bally Technologies) for four years and got his start in design work at the T-Shirt Diner. In addition to these positions, Gonzalez also freelance designed for the last two years. Don’t miss any of the action on the What do you want members to know about you? That I put a lot of great effort in everything I do, and recently live court this summer at Mandalay Bay by a belief that goes ….‘How you do anything, is how you do EVERYTHING’- Peter Voogd. Events Center. Suzi Waltos Director of Events and Engagement Suzi Waltos is a highly motivated and experienced event professional with a strong For more information on group nights, history of wildly successful events while delivering unsurpassed guest experiences. Waltos’ vision and dedication to service creates out-of-the-box events. Having corporate outings, premium hospitality served as events manager at MGM Resorts International (Corporate) and The and season tickets contact us at: Venetian, Waltos has led her teams during some of the biggest high-profile events and conferences Las Vegas has seen; many programs earning the event industry’s LASVEGASACES.COM highest honor, the GALA award. As with Waltos’ previously held positions within these international companies, doing the right thing, leading with integrity, treating (702) 692-ACES people with respect and being a positive member of the community are essential for the growth of Nevada and beyond. Waltos began her career in her hometown of Atlantic City, NJ and comes to the Las Vegas Chamber with more than 20 years of hospitality, event, marketing, Food and Beverage and casino experience to the team.

What do you want members to know about you? I am a proud member of DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) that is to say, my family are founding fathers of America and the original English settlers of South Jersey.

8 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BASKETBALL IS BACK!

Don’t miss any of the action on the court this summer at Mandalay Bay Events Center.

For more information on group nights, corporate outings, premium hospitality and season tickets contact us at: LASVEGASACES.COM (702) 692-ACES

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 9 Your Scene | You’re Seen

Business Power Luncheon with MGM's Lilian Tomovich

This year’s first Business Power Luncheon was a success! Chief Experience Officer Lilian Tomovich with MGM Resorts International provided insight on how to provide an amazing customer experience by being “customer-obsessed.” Tomovich reminded the audience that by always putting the customer first can result in a positive experience almost every time. KLAS 8 News Now Anchor Denise Valdez graciously hosted emceed the conversation, with the Waldorf Astoria as a wonderful setting.

Executive Women’s Council

“Fearless. Fierce. Kind.” Just some words used at the first Executive Women’s Council event. Thanks to KLAS 8 News Now for hosting the “Women in Media” panel featuring 8 News Now’s General Manager Lisa Howfield and Weather Anchor Sherry Swensk; Entercom’s Natalia Hernandez; and LVRJ’s Carri Geer Thevenot. These executives shared uplifting and pointed stories with the new council members. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor SCE Federal Credit Union. Join this amazing group of fearless, fierce, kind female executives at LVChamber.com

10 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Governor Steve Sisolak signs Senate Bill 543, The Pupil-Centered Funding Plan. It was the mid-1960s and the lure and excitement of Las Vegas continued to boom with both locals and intrigued tourists. On the Strip, significant changes occurred in 1966 when the Aladdin and Caesars Palace hotels and casinos opened. Then in 1967, Howard Hughes purchased the Desert Inn; Siegfried and Roy debuted at the Tropicana; and motorcycle stuntman Evel Knieval attempted and failed his famous jump over the fountains at Caesars Palace.

As Las Vegas built its way into becoming an iconic city and the Silver State grew, there was much work occurring off the Strip that lent its hand in addressing the needs of the thousands of Nevada students: The Nevada Plan, a statewide, formula-based funding mechanism for public K-12 education. The Nevada Plan determines basic per‐ pupil support amount for each school district, which established a guaranteed level of funding based upon the demographic characteristics of each school district.

However, as Nevada grew and its population diversified, the Nevada Plan remained the same and did not evolve to reflect the student population. As a result, the specific needs of students, such as English Language Learners, that require more money were not taken into consideration in the allocation of funds through the formula.

Distributing K-12 funding to where it is needed most by students has long been a priority of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber, and finding an effective way to update the Nevada Plan funding formula has been an issue the Chamber has engaged In for many years.

12 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “For years, the Las Vegas Chamber has been a leading advocate in Carson City on education reform measures to drive student achievement. We supported Senate Bill 543 because updating and modernizing the state’s K-12 education funding formula was an essential step in helping provide more resources for students in the Clark County School District,“ said Hugh Anderson, chairman of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee.

When the 80th Legislative Session commenced, there was a renewed determination to finally overhaul the Nevada Plan. State Senators Joyce Woodhouse and Mo Denis introduced SB 543, a pupil-centered funding plan. The bill modernizes the state’s 52-year-old Nevada Plan and provides for greater transparency to the education system. The new funding plan is student-centered and offers solutions to a diverse student population throughout the state.

“From inception, it started back in 2014, when Senator Denis and I worked on a legislative study on the education funding formula,” said Senator Woodhouse, who has been a leader on education issues for several years. “The major effort was to determine what the weights should be for English Language Learner (ELL) students, special education students, and students who live at or below the poverty level.”

In 2018, a study commissioned by the Legislature between legislative sessions, presented by Augenblick, Palaich and Associates, examined “the most efficient way that school funding formulas should operate,” as noted by Woodhouse. The Augenblick report recommended that students considered at-risk, ELL, and special education be supported with additional funding on top of the base funding.

“I was a first-grade teacher in my first year when the Nevada Plan was devised in 1967, and our classrooms look very, very differently today than they did then,” said Woodhouse. “And that’s one of the big issues that needed to be addressed in the new funding formula was both the demographic and diversity of our student population in our schools across the state of Nevada and especially those in Southern Nevada.”

With those recommendations and the study results in-hand, and looking ahead to the 2019 Legislative Session,

Chamber President and CEO Mary Beth Sewald interviews Nevada Superintendent of Jeremy Aguero explains the intricacies of Senate Bill 543, the Pupil-Centered Funding Plan. Public Instruction Jhone Ebert and Applied Analysis Principal Jeremy Aguero on Like Nobody’s Business, the Chamber’s TV show.

“That’s when Senator Denis and I said, ‘okay, the 2019 session is the one that we have to do this…’” added Woodhouse.

Woodhouse and Denis began meeting with then-State Superintendent of Public Instruction Steve Canavero and chief financial officers from all school districts within the state to learn the technicalities of the Nevada Plan and the new plan and how they would work together to devise a new plan. Along with these critical meetings, Woodhouse collaborated with data experts and education advocates. Stakeholder meetings were organized that included the teachers union, the business community, school boards, district superintendents and others in both Northern and Southern Nevada.

Woodhouse assembled a team of experts to create the bill, including Applied Analysis Principal Jeremy Aguero and new State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jhone Ebert. Additionally, Woodhouse noted that, “from the very beginning, we were including our legislative fiscal staff and our legal staff because we knew this was going to be a heavy lift, particularly in drafting the measure. Whatever formula we developed would have to be written into legal language and then be able to work.”

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 13 Nevada Superintendent of Public Instruction Jhone Ebert shares her perspective on how Senate Bill 543, The Pupil-Centered Funding Plan.

Recognizing that the legislation in extensive, Aguero sums up the five key elements of SB 543 as follows:

1) Creation of the Nevada Education Fund (puts all 4) Creates the Nevada Commission on School Funding state and local education funds into a single, separate (monitors implementation and provides guidance account, creating transparency relative to education to school districts, the Nevada Department of funding). Education, the Governor and the Legislature; makes recommendations under two scenarios: (i) current 2) Creation of the Education Stability Account (ends funding levels; (ii) optimal funding levels (adequacy); the practice of reverting education dollars to the and promotes transparency, accountability and state’s general fund; ensures that any excess revenues communication). are placed into a rainy-day fund for Nevada’s public schools). 5) Increased Accountability (reporting at the Department, district and school level; ensures that 3) Replaces the Nevada Plan with the Pupil-Centered dollars are following the students, as intended and Funding Plan (establishes base funding and the intent ensures that schools are not being shortchanged to keep base funding whole under normal economic in terms of base funding, e.g., long-term sub issue circumstances; establishes weighted funding for special or in terms of weighted funding, e.g., students with education, English Language Learners, students living similar needs profiles receiving very different resource at or near the poverty line, and gifted and talented allocations). students; and ensures that dollars distributed from the state to the districts, and from districts to schools, reflect the need profile of students).

“The new plan puts students first when it comes to funding education by recognizing their differences, which is a condition precedent to getting all students the resources they need to be successful,” said Aguero. “The new funding formula also creates school funding formulas in the public arena, instead of behind closed doors. More broadly, SB 543 improves education funding transparency by making it clear to everyone what tax dollars are being spent on K-12 education and where those dollars are being allocated.”

The Chamber supported this provision to bring more transparency to school funding in the benefit of the public.

The purpose of SB 543 is to achieve equal educational opportunities student-to-student through a more-equitable allocation of funds from district-to-district. To that end, the bill has three aims:

• Simplify school finance by consolidating funding streams into a statewide education fund; • Augment base district funding using weights that recognize that the costs to prepare students are not uniform and should be student-centered; and • Improve transparency through an oversight commission of individuals with finance expertise.

14 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE To simplify school funding, the new funding formula does not differentiate between “inside” or “outside” revenues. Instead, SB 543 calls for the creation of a State Education Fund, a central repository for school funds, which will be administered by the Nevada Department of Education.

To augment base funding, the new formula is designed to acknowledge students with various levels of needs through the establishment of weights. Those categories include English Language Learners, Gifted and Talented Students, Special Education as well as At-Risk. The bill will replace a patchwork quilt of different funding schemes with a formula that provides funding to school districts that enroll students who face a steeper climb.

To improve transparency, SB 543 calls for the creation of an 11-member body called the Commission on School Funding. The role of this Commission is to provide non-partisan and independent consultation to the Interim Legislative Committee on Education related to the implementation of the new funding formula.

"Having a new funding formula is important, but a formula alone is not enough. Execution matters. For that reason, SB 543 provides a two-year runway for the new finance system to ramp up before it is fully implemented. During the two-year period leading up to July 1, 2021, the existing process for distributing funds to public schools will continue to operate as usual, while the new formula will run side-by-side" said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. "During this period, key components and any needed modifications will be identified and established by the Commission on School Funding and the Department of Education, along with recommendations to the Governor and the 2021 Nevada Legislature for successful implementation starting on July 1, 2021. This two-year run-up to implementation provides the time needed to finalize the formula that is at the heart of this bill."

“It was difficult to do, but when you do the right thing, it’s the right thing to do,” said Senator Mo Denis. “With the passing of SB 543, it’s a new day for families, students and teachers, and a new day for education in Nevada.”

The Las Vegas Chamber was a leading advocate of SB 543 and Instrumental in its passage. The Las Vegas Chamber, along with numerous community stakeholders, came together over the last several years to be catalysts for changing the formula. Additionally, the annual BE Engaged conference, led by former Chamber chairman and Bank of Nevada president and CEO John Guedry, paved the way for the business community uniting behind SB 543. The message these business and community leaders sent to Carson City was that ultimately K-12 funding should be allocated to drive student achievement.

“Student success is vitally important to our business community. Students are our future workforce and we need them prepared to take on the challenges of current and future jobs,” said Mary Beth Sewald, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Chamber. “As the largest business association in Nevada, the Chamber had a responsibility to work collaboratively with lawmakers, business and community leaders, and other stakeholders to find a better way to allocate K-12 funding in order to drive student achievement. We could not let this opportunity pass without succeeding, and we are very proud that the Pupil-Centered Funding Plan passed this session.”

Learn more about SB 543 at https://www.leg.state.nv.us/App/NELIS/REL/80th2019/Bill/7052/Overview

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 15 2019 END OF SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

After 120 days, the Nevada Legislature adjourned its 2019 session on June 4. The Chamber was in Carson City full-time throughout the session, making sure your interests were represented daily. As the “Voice of Business”, the Chamber promoted legislation that helps businesses thrive and create jobs, and we stood up against policies that would increase the cost of doing business, harm job creation, and hinder economic prosperity for Nevada’s employers and their employees.

Our focus was to ensure that legislation passed would not deter the hiring of Nevadans for good paying jobs. We also worked with policy makers to ensure that investments were made in Southern Nevada to help our region grow and thrive.

The Chamber’s job was to eliminate as many bad proposals as possible and mitigate provisions that would adversely impact business in bills that moved forward. With more than 1,100 bills introduced, the Chamber tracked 549 bills and testified on 130 bills. By end of session, the Chamber's Government Affairs team spent more than 2,500 hours at the Legislature protecting you.

As the “Voice of Business”, the Chamber engaged daily with legislators, staff and administration officials to articulate and share the perspective of employers on business and education issues. The Chamber convened all of Nevada's business associations and trade organizations to speak with one unified voice. This effort by the Chamber meant Nevada's broad and diverse business community presented a unified and cohesive front on the critical, important business issues.

The Chamber also made the commitment to keep you informed on the latest activity in Carson City that impacts you and your business. Your engagement also helped us move Southern Nevada forward by passing key Southern Nevada Forum priorities, such as construction for the College of Southern Nevada and Nevada State College Health Sciences Building and for the Nevada State College Education Building. These initiatives will help train more healthcare workers and educators, which will address workforce needs in the education and healthcare sectors and bolster economic growth and stability. We also helped secure funding for the new UNLV new engineering building.

The Chamber also helped pass a new modernized funding formula for K-12 education that will allocate more funding to Clark County School District. These investments will help Southern Nevada grow, prosper and compete in a global economy.

While the 2019 Legislature has concluded, the Chamber's primary role of protecting and advocating for you, our members continues. Advocating for legislation that will foster economic growth and working to stop bad policies that will hinder job creation and economic vitality in Nevada.

Listed are several bills that the Chamber engaged on during the legislative session.

The Chamber’s full legislative end of session report was released on June 30, 2019 and is on the Chamber website at LVChamber.com Check it out for the comprehensive list of bills that the Metro Chamber engaged on behalf of its members.

16 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EDUCATION Assembly Bill 289: Revises provisions relating to the subject area of reading Legislative Summary: AB 289, as originally written, would have changed provisions of the Read By 3 education program, which requires third-grade students to be able to read at a specified level of proficiency or potentially be held back a year. The Metro Chamber was initially opposed to AB 289, as the Metro Chamber 2019 END OF supported the original education reform measure passed in 2015 and as well as certain accountability measures tied to education dollars and programs. However, AB 289 was amended to focus on support services for underperforming students and additional remedial measures that can be taken in conjunction with parents before students can be held back. The Metro Chamber removed its opposition from the bill based on SESSION HIGHLIGHTS the adopted amendments. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson Position: Concerns Mitigated Assembly Vote: Yeas: 28, Nays: 11, Excused: 2, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 17, Nays: 4 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Bill 541: Revises provisions relating to the subject area of reading Legislative Summary: AB 541 is the biennium bill that funds capital improvements throughout the state such as advance planning, construction and modernization of facilities that are owned and managed by the state. This bill specifically provides for the construction of the Nevada State College Education Building at $55.8 million and College of Southern Nevada/Nevada State College Health Sciences Building at $70.7 million. The Metro Chamber supported this bill as the construction of those academic buildings are important to addressing the shortages of teachers and healthcare workers in Southern Nevada. This bill was also a priority of the Southern Nevada Forum. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assembly Committee on Ways and Means Position: : Support Assembly Vote: : Yeas: 41, Nays: 0, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 21, Nays: 0 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Joint Resolution 5*: Amends the Nevada Constitution Regarding Higher Education Legislative Summary: The Metro Chamber is supportive of AJR 5 as part of the organization's long-standing priorities relating to higher education reform. This resolution provides greater clarity between the Board of Regents and the State Legislature by amending the Nevada State Constitution. The Metro Chamber believes that the passage of AJR 5 is an important component to reforming the state’s higher education governance structure and its alignment to meeting the needs of today’s students and employers. Primary Bill Sponsor: Senator Joyce Woodhouse Position: Support Assembly Vote: Yeas: 36, Nays: 5, Excused: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 20, Nays: 0, Excused: 1 Final Action: Delivered to the Secretary of State. This resolution will be up for a vote of the people in November 2020 since it is a proposed change to the State’s Constitution.

HEALTHCARE Senate Bill 192: Provisions relating to minimum wage and healthcare Legislative Summary: SB 192 would require in order for employers to be eligible to pay the minimum hourly wage rate of $7.25 that healthcare plans that offer must at a minimum standard provide a list of benefits, which would be tied to the federal Essential Health Benefits. If the healthcare plan does not meet the required benefits, then the employer must pay the higher rate of $8.25 an hour.The bill also creates Office of the Ombudsman for Hospital Patients. The Chamber originally opposed the bill strictly relating to section one of the bill because of the concerns of tying the minimum wage rate to the Essential Health Benefits list and suggested that the benefits be linked to the list of benefits found in NRS 689B as it will provide greater flexibility to Nevada’s Division of Insurance and employers, however, based on a technical mandate regarding the required benefits that would need to offered, the Chamber removed its opposition. Primary Bill Sponsor: Senator Pat Spearman Position: Concerns Mitigated Assembly Vote: Yeas: 36, Nays: 3, Excused: 2, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 21, Nays: 0 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor. LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 17 Assembly Bill 251: Expands the number of employers subject to provisions prohibiting certain unlawful employment practices Legislative Summary: AB 251 would have changed existing state law regarding microbusinesses in Nevada. Existing state law prohibits an employer from engaging in various unlawful employment practices that result in discrimination which currently applies to businesses with 15 or more employees. AB 251 would have lowered that threshold to five employees or less while federal law is established at 15 employees. The Metro Chamber opposed the bill because it would have created a bifurcated regulatory system in which a microbusiness in Nevada would have been in compliance with federal law but not with state law. The Metro Chamber believes that existing state law of 15 employees or less is appropriate due to the size of these microbusinesses and the limited resources that they have. All businesses want stability, predictability, conformity and alignment when it comes to government regulations and laws. This change would have brought confusion to microbusinesses in Nevada. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assemblywoman Michelle Gorelow Position: Oppose Assembly Vote: No vote taken by the Assembly. Senate Vote: No vote taken by the Senate. Final Action: The bill failed because there was no vote taken by the Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor. As a result, the bill received no further consideration during the legislative session.

Assembly Bill 421: Revises provisions relating to construction Legislative Summary: The original version of AB 421 would have repealed many components of the residential construction defect reform provisions that were adopted by the State Legislature in 2015. Current laws allow home builders and homeowners to address construction issues in a timely and effective manner. However, the bill was amended to include several components such as detailed notices, removal of an expert who provided an opinion on the construction defect to be present at an inspection and changes the terms from a “home warranty” to a “builder warranty”. The bill also proposed changing the period from six years to 10 years in which a homeowner can seek improvements from the homebuilder on their home. The Metro Chamber opposed the original bill because the provisions would have increased the cost of home prices and hinder the affordability of homes for many Nevadans across the state, especially in Reno and Las Vegas, where the average home prices have been increasing the last several years. However, a compromise was reached by the homebuilding industry and as a result the Metro Chamber removed its opposition to the modified version of the bill. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assembly Committee on Judiciary Position: Concerns Mitigated Assembly Vote: Yeas: 27, Nays: 13, Excused: 2 Senate Vote: Yeas: 20, Nays: 0, Excused: 1 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Joint Resolution 10: Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to prospectively increase the required minimum wage paid to employees Legislative Summary: AJR 10 proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to increase the minimum wage

18 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE make Your good idea into your best idea

PUT IT DOWN ON PAPER Order Print Online @ DigitalLizardPrint.com

DIGITAL PRINTING SCALED TO FIT YOUR NEEDS 2650 Westwood Dr. • 702.852.3400 • [email protected] LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 19 to $12 per hour beginning July 1, 2024. The resolution would also allow the legislature to establish by law a minimum wage that an employer must pay to each employee. The resolution would eliminate the $1 healthcare credit that currently exists in the constitution. The Metro Chamber opposed this resolution because of a variety of concerns including the increased costs to employers and the potential negative impact on job creation, as well as job losses. Primary Bill Sponsor: Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor Position: Opposed Assembly Vote: Yeas: 28, Nays: 12, Excused: 1, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 12, Nays: 8, Excused: 1 Final Action: Delivered to the Secretary of State. This resolution must be passed a second time by the Legislature in 2021 before it can go to the vote of the people in November 2022 since it is a proposed change to the State’s Constitution.

Senate Bill 493: Creates the Task Force on Employee Misclassification Legislative Summary: SB 493 defines “employee misclassification” as the practice by an employer of improperly classifying employees as independent contractors to avoid any legal obligation under state labor, employment and tax laws. The bill also creates the Task Force on Employee Misclassification; the bill also lays out the duties of the taskforce and makes other changes relating to employee misclassification; and providing an administrative penalty. While the Metro Chamber does not disagree with the bill as originally written, it has since been amended. The Metro Chamber originally opposed the bill as the language was broad in its definition of independent contractor, the excessive and punitive fees and treble damages that were part of the bill. However, the definition of an independent contractor was significantly narrowed, and the fines were lowered to be in line with existing fine structures and the treble damages and attorney’s fees were removed. Primary Bill Sponsor: Senator Marilyn Dondero-Loop Position: Concerns Mitigated Assembly Vote: Yeas: 30, Nays: 11, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 12, Nays: 8, Excused: 1 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Bill 224: Revises provisions to the NV Grow Program Legislative Summary: AB 224 makes changes to the NV Grow Program, which is designed to help Nevada’s businesses grow by providing incentives. The bill transfers the responsibilities to the Division of Workforce and Economic Development of the College of Southern Nevada. The Metro Chamber supported the bill since the NV Grow Program is designed to help small businesses prosper by providing local demographic and industry data to business owners. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assemblywoman Dina Neal Position: Support Assembly Vote: Yeas: 39, Nays: 1, Excused: 1, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 19, Nays: 2 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Bill 413: Revises provisions relating to local governments Legislative Summary: AB 413 strengthens provisions to current law governing Business Impact Statements relating to local government decisions. Local governments are currently required to consider whether proposed rules impose a direct or significant economic burden on affected businesses and if so, they are to prepare a Business Impact Statement to be considered by the body prior to adoption of new rules. AB 413 strengthens this provision by rendering rules adopted by local governments void if adopted without consideration of a Business Impact Statement. The Metro Chamber supported AB 413 and its increased protections of small businesses. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assembly Committee on Government Affairs Position: Support Assembly Vote: Yeas: 41, Nays: 0, Excused: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 21, Nays: 0 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

20 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Assembly Bill 489: Revises provisions relating to grants Legislative Summary: AB 489 establishes a fund under the Office of Grant Procurement for the purpose of allocating funds for federal grants requiring a State matching contribution. AB 489 also specifies that appropriations from this fund be used to secure grants with a federal dollar match, ensuring that the State sees a measurable return on invested monies. The Metro Chamber supported AB 489 as it dramatically expands that State’s ability to leverage tax money to secure federal grant dollars for a variety of projects desperately needed to improve infrastructure and keep pace with continued growth. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assembly Committee on Government Affairs Position: Support Assembly Vote: Yeas: 40, Nays: 0, Excused: 1, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 21, Nays: 0 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Senate Bill 426: Revises provisions related to transportation Legislative Summary: SB 426 would provide the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada the flexibility to ensure that they are developing a comprehensive and feasible mobility plan. The original provisions of the law are set to expire on December 31, 2020, but this bill would extend that deadline until 2024. The Metro Chamber supported the bill as it will allow the RTCSN to develop a bill that best represents the transportation needs of residents of Southern Nevada. Primary Bill Sponsor: Committee on Growth and Infrastructure. Primary Bill Sponsor: Committee on Growth and Infrastructure Position: Support Assembly Vote: 40, Nays: 0, Excused: 1, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: Yeas: 21, Nays: 0 Final Action: Bill signed into law by the Governor.

Assembly Bill 538: Revises provisions governing certain taxes Legislative Summary: AB 538, as proposed, would eliminate the scheduled reduction of the Modified Business Tax (MBT) rate for Nevada’s businesses. The Metro Chamber opposed the legislation as it was part of the overall tax compromise plan that was adopted by the legislature in 2015 that businesses would see a reduction in the MBT. Primary Bill Sponsor: Assembly Committee on Ways and Means Position: Oppose Assembly Vote: Yeas: 27, Nays: 12, Excused: 2, Vacant: 1 Senate Vote: No vote taken by the Senate. Final Action: The bill failed because the Assembly rescinded the action of passage. As a result, the bill received no further consideration during the legislative session.

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 21 Where will color take you?® Ask Sherwin-Williams and discover a whole new world of color with the very best paint. Your neighborhood store is just around the corner.

192023-1 13005-01 Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Journal 7.75 x 4.875 key 2.indd 1 6/18/19 10:38 AM THE place for your holiday event!

MEETLV.com/Celebrate 702.734.6338

22 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LAS VEGAS CHAMBER & LVGEA CREATE UNPRECEDENTED WASHINGTON, D.C. PARTNERSHIP!

Be a part of Nevada's largest Fly-in to Washington, D.C! Southern Nevada leaders travel to Capitol Hill from Sept. 8 to 13 to meet with Nevada’s Con- gressionalBe a part members, of it Southern federal Nevada policy makersleaders andtravel advance to Capitol policies Hill criticalfrom to theS future of our to state. meet with Nevada’s Congressional members and advance policies critical to the future of our state. Don’t miss our co-hosted Nevada State Dinner Gala, an annual black-tie affair, at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. on Monday, Sept. 9. Don’t miss our cohosted Nevada State Dinner Gala, an annual blacktie affair, at the Willard Hotel in D.C. on Monday, Sept. 9.

PLACES TO BE. PEOPLE TO MEET. THINGS TO KNOW. IN JULY.

July Sponsors:

Electra Cocktail Club inside The Palazzo 2 TUESDAY, JULY 2 3325 S. Las Vegas Blvd. CHAMBER VOICES TOASTMASTERS Cost: $20 LLV Alumni. Contact Cara Clarke at Become a better speaker and a more effective presenter by [email protected] for more information. joining Chamber Voices Toastmasters. Open to all members. 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. 13 SATURDAY, JULY 13 Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce VYP COMMUNITY OUTREACH: RONALD 575 Symphony Park Ave., Suite 100 MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF GREATER LAS Cost: $63 every six months. Guests always complimentary. VEGAS Come help VYP serve our community in this meaningful way! 2 TUESDAY, JULY 2 The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater CHAMBER CONNECTIONS Las Vegas is to provide a supportive "home-away-from- Chamber Connections is a dedicated leads group comprised home" for families and children who are receiving inpatient or of professionals from a variety of industries. This is a place for outpatient medical treatment at local hospitals. Families are professionals to grow their network and their businesses by stronger when they are together, and their presence helps an sharing contacts, referrals and ideas. ill child heal. 5:30 – 7p.m. 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas 575 Symphony Park Ave., Suite 100 2323 Potosi St. Cost: Contact [email protected] or call 702.205.5492 This event has strict regulations that must be communicated for space availability and cost. prior to you participating. If you would like to participate, please register then contact Cara Clarke 11 THURSDAY, JULY 11 [email protected] VYP COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS: ARTS AND Sponsors: Station Casinos, IBM ENTERTAINMENT SECTORS With world-class shows and some of the most exclusive 16 TUESDAY, JULY 16 attractions in the world, its no wonder Las Vegas is known as the CHAMBER CONNECTIONS entertainment capital of the world. Join VYP for a Community See July 2 Conversations panel where we discuss the Arts & Entertainment sector state-wide, the economic impact it has on our region as 16 TUESDAY, JULY 16 well as how the industry stays fresh in a transient town. CHAMBER VOICES TOASTMASTERS 8 – 9:30 a.m. See July 2 Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce 575 Symphony Park Ave., Suite 100 25 THURSDAY, JULY 25 Cost: $ $15 VYP+ Member, $20 VYP General Member, $25 Day Of VYP+ EXCURSION: SUSHI & SAKE Please contact Nicole Lovato at 702.586.3825 or email nicole@ Join us for the second VYP+ Excursion of 2019 at Benihana leadership.vegas with any questions for a Sushi and Sake 101 class. Learn how sushi is made, the interplay of ingredients and the artistic presentation, as well as sake, its subtle taste, aromas, and how it accentuates the 11 THURSDAY, JULY 11 flavors of the foods it compliments. LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS (LLV) ALUMNI SIMSOC 6 – 8 p.m. SHAKE-OFF MIXER Benihana Las Vegas You already know which class is the best (yours, of course), but 3200 Las Vegas Blvd., Ste. 1250 do you know which LLV color is the best? Don't miss the SIMSOC Cost: $30 VYP+ Members Shake Off and cheer on your favorite SIMSOC color in a friendly Sponsor: Station Casinos, IBM cocktail competition. Each SIMSOC color - red, green, yellow, and blue - will have an alumni representative who will work with a mixologist to develop a cocktail representative of the color. At the event, alumni will have the opportunity to vote on which cocktail best captures the spirit of its SIMSOC color. 6 – 8 p.m.

Visit LVChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar to register. BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 24 Call 702.641.5822. BOARD OF TRUSTEE SPOTLIGHTS RYAN WOODWARD CFO, National Technical Institute

Use one word to describe your leadership style. Calm

What books have you read recently? "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink "Keepers of the Light" by Bob Gay

If you had to be shipwrecked on a deserted island, but all your human needs—such as food and water— were taken care of, what two items would you want to have with you? My scriptures and my wife (though she’s not an item) – both of them keep me focused on what’s most important in life.

What is your #1 tip in dealing with a “Negative Nelly” in a workplace? Sit down with them and take the time to understand how they see the world so you can gain some context to their negativity. I haven’t necessarily confronted them directly about it unless it’s causing real issues on the team. It isn’t always easy to do this, but if you can try to “put yourself in their shoes,” you can find ways to help them see the positive.

What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why? I’m curious by nature, so I’m constantly seeking to understand things. I try to see things from others’ perspectives and then I try to ask questions to help me understand the gaps between what they’re saying/doing and my own expectations.

HUGH ANDERSON Managing Partner, Director, HighTower Las Vegas

Use one word to describe your leadership style. Direct!

What books or magazines have you read recently? "Master of the Senate" "A Gentleman in Moscow" "An American Sickness" "Mastering the Market Cycle" Forbes Magazine Scientific American Magazine

Which organizations outside your own do you admire the most and why? Any organization that focuses on the needs of those in need; Opportunity Village, Catholic Charities, Foundation for Independent Tomorrow, Shade Tree, Make-a-Wish, Mission High School

What’s your go-to productivity trick? Get up earlier than the next person.

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why? Why not? I know the best is always yet to come.

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 25 Committee Corner MEET OUR CHAMBER AMBASSADORS

LORI ALGIERI LEGAL SHIELD

MIKE CARTER CARTER INVESTMENT SERVICES

olunteers are one of our most valuable resources at the Las Vegas Metro Chamber in contributing to our work V of helping Nevada businesses succeed. These members are an invaluable part of our efforts to support, connect and guide You may have also shared in the celebration during fellow members on how to best utilize and maximize a Chamber event when we recognized outstanding Metro Chamber membership. Get more acquainted with Ambassadors each quarter. We award Ambassador’s our fantastic volunteers. based on their level of engagement. They understand the true value from the Chamber membership is equal Ambassadors are a group of experienced Chamber to the effort they put in. Through prioritizing in-person members who help new members acclimate to their relationship building, they have found success in membership and introduce them to the various benefits maximizing their Chamber benefits. of belonging to the Chamber. Ambassadors host the Chamber’s Business After Hours, a membership Now that you know a little bit more about this networking opportunity available to all levels of incredible group of members, we hope you will take a Chamber members. moment to connect with them at an upcoming event.

Ambassadors are long-term members. Their tenure For more information regarding Chamber Ambassadors, as members has provided them with opportunities to contact the Membership department at 702.641.5822. promote their businesses, as owners and employees of both large and small businesses, while building a community of diverse professionals to support the growth of their initiatives. Their experience has made them incredible resources on how to utilize Chamber benefits.

26 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE KIM HO KIM PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

KRISTI LUTZENBERGER COX COMMUNICATIONS

GINA MACEO AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

ELIE MORRIS SIGNATURE REAL ESTATE

SOPHIA PARENTEAU OPTOMIS INSURANCE & BENEFITS KELLY PETERSON MORGAN STANLEY

LEO TOCCI MERAMAK BANKCARD ROMEO VILLAFANIA, JR. E2E TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 27 President’s Club

(B) Jonas Peterson President & CEO – Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance Jonas Peterson serves as President and CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA). In that role, he leads a talented team focused on strengthening the regional economy and positioning LVGEA as a national leader in community and economic development. Since its launch in 2012, [LVGEA has more than doubled in size to become one of the largest nonprofit business associations in Nevada.] During that time, LVGEA has helped over 200 companies create more than 20,000 jobs and deliver $12 billion in economic impact throughout Southern Nevada.

(A) Paul Stowell Senior VP, Chief Market Strategist – City National Bank Paul Stowell is the Nevada Regional Executive, Marketing and PR Manager for City National Bank. He has a BA in broadcast journalism from BYU and was recognized in 2013 as “Business Person of the Year” by Nevada’s Future Business Leaders of America. He is an advisory board member of Touro University, an HSB advisory council member for West Career and Technical Academy, and a board member of the Nevada Museum of Art. He serves with the Boy Scouts, the Nevada Corporate Giving Counsel, Three Square, and the Assistance League of Las Vegas.

A B

(D) Damon Schilling Manager, Government Affairs – AMR/Medic West Las Vegas Damon Schilling is Manager of Government Affairs for American Medical Response (AMR) / MedicWest Las Vegas. A Las Vegas native, he began his career at Southwest Ambulance in 2003. He worked in the dispatch center while attending paramedic school, completing his internship in 2007. Since then, Damon has held various roles within the organization. Damon served as the Community Relations Coordinator for AMR and MedicWest prior to his current position. Damon is a graduate from Nevada State College with a BA in Business Administration.

C D

(C) Julie Raye Founder & Visionary – The Grace Law Firm Julie Raye is the Founder and Visionary of Grace Law, a legal advocacy firm for women. With over a decade of experience, Julie focuses her practice in Family Law, Personal Injury, Business, and Criminal Defense. She is the founder of Grace & Justice, a non-profit community development corporation that ensures equal access to justice for women and those they love through legal advice and representation. Grace & Justice offers free legal services, programs, and organized activities that educate, support and help protect women who cannot afford an attorney.

28 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Spotlights

(E) Christine Zack President/CEO – Easterseals Nevada Christine Zack joined Easterseals Nevada (ESN) as its President, CEO in December. She oversees the statewide healthcare and human services non-profit therapy clinics in Las Vegas and Reno and in the home through ESN’s Early Intervention Program. She oversees Adult Enrichment Services facilities in the Las Vegas Valley and statewide capability enhancement and assistive technology services. She is Adjunct Faculty at UNLV, a Board Trustee for The Shade Tree and a Board Director for the Nevada Public Employees’ Benefits Program. She is a graduate of Tulane Law School and Dickinson College.

(F) Jeff Grace Senior Account Executive - Gartner Jeff Grace is a former IT professional and CEO. He founded NetEffect in 2002 and grew it to one of the leading IT companies in Southern NV. After selling his interest in NetEffect, he joined Gartner to follow his passion for helping senior leaders make the most of their IT spend. Gartner is a member of the S&P 500 and provides data driven insights, advice, and tools to help organizations lead, succeed, and win. Jeff is a member the Board of Trustees of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber.

E F

(G) Paolo Tiramani CEO – 500 Group Paolo Tiramani is CEO of 500 Group, an intellectual property investment and development company with diverse holding in traditional, digital and intellectual assets. 500 Group focuses on new technologies which can be protected by patents. In 2017 500 Group moved operations to Nevada for its superior tax and business climate. 500 Group investments in Nevada include: The Paolo Tiramani Foundation; Supercar System, a powersports recreational product operated out of its 20,000 sq. ft facility at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway; and Boxabl, a revolutionary construction technology slated for factory production in Apex or similar. G H

(H) Chris Way VP, General Manager – KTNV-TV, 13 Action News Chris Way is VP/General Manager of KTNV-TV, 13 Action News, an E.W. Scripps company. He oversees all business and operations activities of Las Vegas' ABC affiliate. Chris returned to Las Vegas two years ago after a short stint as General Manager at KMTV-TV in Omaha, Nebraska. Previously, he worked at KLAS-TV for eight years. Chris serves on community boards and committees including the United Way of Southern Nevada, the Nellis Support Team, Honor Flight of Southern Nevada, Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada, and the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District Foundation.

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 29 ACCESS HELPS EXECUTIVES NEW TO VEGAS GET UP-TO-SPEED ON REGION

re you an executive new to Las Vegas? Do you have new top-level employees who need to quickly understand how Southern Nevada works? Then Access Las Vegas is the perfect program for you. Access Las Vegas, slated for Tuesday, Oct. 22 and Tuesday, Oct. 29, is a two-day program specifically A tailored for senior-level executives who are new to Las Vegas, recently promoted, or who want to quickly gain a deeper understanding of the community. The program gives participants the opportunity to learn about our unique community and be knowledgeable on how Las Vegas works, develop a better perspective of the many aspects of the region, and gain insight into the challenges and opportunities for a strong future.

Through Access Las Vegas, executives will:

• Learn about the economy, industry sectors, and the most critical issues facing our community • Hear how Las Vegas is addressing its challenges and capitalizing on innovation and opportunities • Gain insights on a wide-range of topics, including workforce, education, infrastructure, economic • Meet community leaders and make connections to development, and the arts activate your personal network

• Understand the history of the region, its governance, • Build relationships with fellow class members and milestones

Past speakers include Jeremy Aguero, Applied Analysis; Superintendent Dr. Jesus Jara; Chancellor Thom Reilly; Dr. Robert Lang, Brookings Mountain West; Myron Martin, The Smith Center for the Performing Arts; Dr. Michael Green, UNLV; Dr. Christopher Stream, UNLV; Tina Quigley, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada; Kevin Bagger, LVCVA; and Mary Beth Sewald, Las Vegas Metro Chamber.

Additionally, there will be a behind-the-scenes tour and a cocktail reception where you can meet business and community leaders.

Access Las Vegas is a program of the Leadership Foundation of Greater Las Vegas, a non-profit organization affiliated with the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. The program is $1,750 for Las Vegas Chamber members and $1,950 for non-members. For more information or to register, go to Leadership.Vegas and click on the Access program. You may also contact Cara Clarke at [email protected].

30 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Chamber Helps Pass Landmark Education Funding Plan

The Las Vegas Chamber Showcases Top Leaders in Nevada

Episodes Air the First Sunday and Various Times/Days Each Month

Time: 4 p.m. PST | Channel: Cox Yurview LV 14 and 1014

View archived episodes at youtube.com/lasvegaschamber

Presenting Location Sponsor: Sponsor:

LVChamber.com | 702.641.5822 | @LVChamber Member News

RED - PRESIDENT’S CLUB MEMBER

Announcements Show and Luncheon Nevada’s acclaimed water park, Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas kicks fundraiser. More than off the summer season with the start of its weekend series, 40 children, many from beginning now through Aug. 17. All summer long, guests will the Early Intervention enjoy children’s story time, dive-in movies, foam parties, DJs, Program, walked the food and Wet’n’Wild’s iconic slides and attractions. Wet’n’Wild runway in apparel Las Vegas is now open for daily operations. For more provided by Dillard’s. information or to purchase tickets, please visit All proceeds supported https://bit.ly/30KD6Bw. Easterseals Nevada’s Children’s Programs. Award-winning and newly opened Galaxy Theatres Boulevard, Lois Tarkanian was located at the Boulevard Mall, is the first all-laser projection presented with the Lois theatre in Nevada and home to the first Sony Digital Cinema™ Tarkanian Humanitarian in the world. Galaxy Theatres is offering Kid’s Summerfest Award for her through Aug. 26. Tickets are $2 per person for select movies continued support of all summer long. Kid’s Summerfest movies include “Despicable the programs. Learn Me,” “Curious George,” “The Secret Life of Pets,” “Dr. Seuss’ The more at https://www. Lorax” and more. During Kid’s Summerfest, value packs are eastersealsnv.org/ available for only $3, regularly priced at $6.75. The value pack includes a small popcorn, candy and small soda. Tickets can be Raising Cane's purchased at the box office, online or on the Galaxy Theatres Founder and CEO mobile app. Details at https://www.galaxytheatres.com/ Todd Graves joined the Locations/20 Vegas Golden Knights Chief Marketing Officer Brian Killingsworth for a special presentation in Vegas. Together, they donated more than Community Service $1 million to local charities as the result of the 51/49 raffle

which took place during regular season.

Easterseals Nevada, an innovative healthcare and human services non-profit, held its inaugural Children’s Fashion

32 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Congratulations

Nathan Adelson Hospice announced that Universal Health Services Regional Vice President and Las Vegas Chamber Board of Trustee Karla Perez has joined the Board of Trustees of Nathan Adelson Hospice. For more than 35 years, Perez has worked in the Las Vegas community, responsible for a variety Let’s meet to discuss your next event, of roles ranging from business development to overall hospital operations. In her current position, she oversees the operations meeting or conference. of Spring Valley, Summerlin, Desert Springs, Valley, Centennial Hills and Henderson Hospital Medical Centers in Las Vegas, Desert View Hospital in Pahrump, and Northern Nevada Medical Center in Sparks, Nevada. For more information, visit https:// www.nah.org/

Dickinson Wright PLLC is pleased to announce that John Krieger, member in the Las Vegas office, has been named to the National Law Journal’s list of Technology Law Trailblazers. The National Law Journal recognizes professionals who have moved the needle in the legal industry. Krieger works with numerous clients who have a presence on the Internet, assisting them with emerging legal issues and counseling businesses on the nuances of technology law. Additionally, Dickinson Wright PLLC also announced that the firm has received five practice rankings and three attorneys in Nevada have been ranked in this year’s The Legal 500 United States 2019. Details at https://www. dickinson-wright.com/our-firm/locations/las-vegas-sunset

Desert Companion, the monthly premier city magazine produced by Nevada Public Radio, recently earned three trophies, representing the best in publishing and media. The Southern Nevada publication was awarded three MAGGIE Awards during the 67th Annual MAGGIE Ceremony held May 3 in Los Angeles. Touted as the longest reigning publishing awards program in the United States, The MAGGIE Awards recognize professionals from across the globe for excellence in more than 120 editorial, design, promotional and event categories. Learn more at https://knpr.org/desert-companion

Vegas PBS is pleased to announce four of its locally-produced programs have been named winners of five total awards in the 40th Annual Telly Awards, including gold for original documentary “The Power of Love,” which explores brain health in Nevada and features the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, and another gold for editing on “Remembering Vietnam: Las Vegas Veterans”. The Telly Awards honors excellence in video and television across all screens and is judged by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks, and production companies including Vice, Vimeo, Hearst Digital Media, BuzzFeed, and A&E Networks. For information, visit https://www.vegaspbs.org/ Contact Bernadette Anthony at 702-386-2403 The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce is proud to [email protected] provide members with a place to publish their current announcements as a benefit of membership. Email news items to [email protected].

LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2019 BUSINESS VOICE 33

1 Main Street · Downtown Las Vegas · PlazaHotelCasino.com · 800-634-6575 · #PlazaLV Ribbon Cuttings PC - President’s Club $ - Chamber Member Discount

PAM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL BOTTEGA EXCHANGE PAM Rehabilitation Hospital is an acute rehab hospital with Bottega Exchange is a co-working space that combines the 44 private rooms and a state-of-the-art gym with specialized beauty of a coffee shop with the convenience of a professional therapists that focus on returning patients to their highest level of office, a network that encourages community over competition independence after a traumatic event or illness. and a place to mentor and grow your business.

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION YOUNG LAW GROUP University of Nevada Cooperative Extension announces the grand Young Law Group is a law firm that takes a holistic approach to opening of the A.D. Guy Knowledge Center, which provides serving clients and focuses on Estate Planning (wills, trust, POA’s, families with education opportunities in STEM, school readiness, heath care directives), kids protection planning (guardianship), nutrition, 4-H, coding, entrepreneurship and more. For more business (start-up’s, contracts, general counsel, disputes), and information, visit www.unice.unr.edu. personal injury.

PAWS FESTIVAL ALPHAGRAPHICS Paws Festival is a family friendly and pet friendly festival Jeff Bailey brings nearly two decades of expert marketing with about 60 vendors and local animal charities and rescue strategy – through a consultative approach of delivering organizations. They have an adoption fair, food trucks, live music marketing communication services. AlphaGraphics is a trusted and more. community partner for print and sign marketing services for organizations of all sizes. Visit us at alphagraphics.com

34 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE To arrange your ribbon cutting, email Business Excellence Awards [email protected] Nominations Open Aug. 1 to 31 How does your business embrace creativity and innovation? Do you have an amazing company culture or meaningful corporate giving program?

If so, the Las Vegas Chamber wants to hear from you! We are SPONSORED BY: looking for nominees for the annual Business Excellence Awards (BEA) program, and they can be from any size business, from a sole proprietor to several hundred employees, nominees must be members in good standing of the Las Vegas Chamber. Members can self-nominate or nominate another business. Nominations for the BEA program will be accepted from August 1 to 31.

The Business Excellence Awards program, sponsored exclusively by Nevada State Bank, is a terrific way to recognize businesses that go above-and-beyond for their employees, customers, and our community. To nominate, visit LVChamber. com and tell us why the business deserves to be recognized. Video nominations (no longer than 60 seconds) will be accepted and are encouraged. Nominated businesses will be invited to a special recognition reception on October 16, where winners will then be announced in each of the following categories: Game Changer, Global Benefactor, Legendary Leader and Magical Team. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase the best businesses in the region.

AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION America First Credit Union opened its newest location on South Rainbow. As the sixth largest credit union in the nation, America First continues to provide its members with the highest standard of customer service in its 80-year history. Learn more at americafirst.com. Photo Credit: Matt Paddock

STATE VAN RENTAL State Van Rental specializes in passenger and cargo van rentals. Founded in 2009, it is the favored choice for families, travelers, sports teams, churches and corporate groups. They excel in customizing the rental experience to fit the needs of their renters. This July, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Foundation will host its fourth annual Lunch with the Sheriff at PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa. This annual fundraiser provides LUNCH WITH THE SHERIFF the Sheriff an opportunity to address attendees regarding current LVMPD and LVMPD Foundation initiatives and plans for the future. This exclusive event featuring Sheriff Joe Lombardo will begin at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24.

“Every year, this luncheon is a great opportunity to hear about new and upcoming initiatives within LVMPD,” said Tom Kovach, executive director of the LVMPD Foundation. “We are excited to bring this popular event to a larger venue where we can expand the scope to interactively showcase our initiatives and provide more people with the opportunity to attend.”

For the first time, this year’s luncheon will feature equipment and technology exhibits from multiple law enforcement units within LVMPD and will provide an exciting and interactive experience for the attendees to meet with officers and learn more about their latest advancements in public safety. This event has been designed to continue to develop stronger relationships between the community and officers, allowing participants to get to know their LVMPD heroes in uniform and learn more about how they work to keep the community safe each and every day.

“We take great pride in hosting Lunch with the Sheriff each year because it allows us to connect LVMPD with community and business leaders and the general public in a productive and informative way,” said Kovach. “The LVMPD Foundation is leading efforts to bring a new, state-of-the-art Reality Based Training Center to Southern Nevada and we look forward to updating attendees on the status of this important project, which will provide critical, life-saving training to local, state and national law enforcement officers and first responders.”

The LVMPD Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1999 tasked with raising funds to support and supplement LVMPD efforts to make Southern Nevada THURSDAY, a safer place to live, work and visit. The Foundation supports JULY 24, 2019 | 11:30AM a diverse array of initiatives, including updating equipment RED ROCK RESORT & SPA and technology for the Department, advanced officer training, supporting the families of fallen officers, providing higher education 11011 W. Charleston Blvd. scholarships for children of officers, Every 15 Minutes and Bolden Las Vegas, NV 89135 Little League.

In addition to Lunch with the Sheriff, the Foundation also hosts a myriad of community engagement and public safety programs and events. These events include Santa Cops, Wonder Women of Metro and the Good Ticket program.

To purchase tickets or a table for Lunch with the Sheriff, please visit lvmpdfoundation.org.

Limited sponsorship opportunities are still available. If you’re interested in sponsoring the 2019 Lunch with the Sheriff, please contact Latoya Holman at [email protected] or call 702.983.7369.

To stay up-to-date with the Foundation’s events and programs, visit lvmpdfoundation.org or find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @lvmpdfoundation.

36 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ATTENTION! PARKING MANAGEMENT PROPERTY MANAGERS LET US DO YOUR HEAVY LIFTING

Towing companies cannot offer tagging services. But we can!

24/7 Mobile App Access to all tags/tows Make property a safer environment Remove abandoned/Unoperable vehicles Property Clean up/Attract new tenants

Keeping Quality Properties Safe, Regulated, and Secure.

TAGGING PROVIDED BY TOWING PROVIDED BY

PARKING MANAGEMENT

Call: Email: 702-566-1644 [email protected]

Social and Digital Marketing and Management Rewriting the rules of advertising

Introducing our new digital network. Text Messages Email Messages

CALL VEIL Omni-Veil App Available to download in: 702-279-2925 Download our free app for the GET IT ON WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

PRESIDENT'S CLUB: Allies Renown Institute for Health Innovation alliesusa.com healthynv.org First Legal Rice Reuther Sullivan & Carroll firstlegal.com rrsc-law.com Gartner The Grace Law Firm gartner.com Thegracelawfirm.com National Technical Institute The Renaissance Companies ntitraining.com renaissancecompanies.com Nevada Military Support Alliance nvmilitarysupport.org

7-Eleven #24823 Freedom RVing Patch MD A Simple Affair ganc.io Preston Homes and Steel AAA NCNV Glitz Entertainment Production Specialists of Las Vegas Alignology Global Gaming Group Quiznos All Tune and Lube Globicom Inc RapidVisa Incorporated Americana Financial Group Goodfellas Collision Center Reverse Mortage Funding LLC Amervis & Associates Grand Desert Psychiatric Services Shelter Insurance Angelina's Pizzeria's and Italian Kitchens H Vasas Insurance Services Show Talent LLC Arcade City Food & Fun Hearts of Passion Home Care Silver Pointe Wealth Management Ben Kermani MD LTD HOA Lawyers Group LLC Silver State Health Services Beninati Family Insurance Horizon Valley Enterprise LLC Smart Medical Devices Inc Black Rock Coffee Bar Houldsworth, Russo & Company Smith Plastic Surgery Busy B Groundskeeper and Floor Care i World Class Design LLC SOV Media LLC Inc. Jakob's Wealth Management Stork Solutions Code Ninjas- Centennial Hills Jim Hawkins- Mortgage Loan Officer Tax & Income Management Enterprises Cofield Real Estate K & G Construction TeleSecurity Sciences, Inc. Collaboration Center Foundation Kim Long LLC The Bottega Exchange Courtney Group LLC Lotus of Siam The Mob Museum Cream LLC Madewell Products LLC TownePlace Suites Las Vegas City Center Creed Boutique Las Vegas at The Forum Matter Real Estate Group Travelers Companies Shops at Caesars Mediterranean Exporter's Association University of Nevada Cooperative Destinations By Design, Inc Mesa Ridge Apartments Extension Envision Legal Solutions Millennium Dance Complex Las Vegas Vegan Bliss Fast Plumbing Service, Inc Mint Payroll LLC Viva Technologies FirstLight Home Care of Nevada Muscle Foods Export LLC Wecom Inc Forward March Inc

Members joined from April 15 - June 15, 2019 38 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CREATING YOUR HIGH CONVERSION SITE Margarita Bondarenko, Vegas Young Professionals (VYP)

s a business owner, you are understandably The goal is to fuse the design and practical aspect motivated to want a website that will of your web design. With these right elements your impress your customers. You want to create website can drive value by delivering an organized and A an online experience which promotes your well-designed experience across the board to interest brand and that you can be proud of. In that leads and results in greater sales conversions. process it is easy to forget about factors that make you website easy to open and navigate or not include fundamentals that result in higher sales conversions.

Showcase High Value Content It is easy to lose your audience’s attention. On average viewers will decide whether to stay on or leave your page within a matter of seconds. According to Kissmetrics 40 percent of people abandon a website that takes more than three seconds to load.

To engage your readers, make sure to highlight the most useful information for your audience in a prominent location and direct them from there to any additional information you need to provide them. By placing the most important content prominently in highly visible areas (such as towards the top of each landing page) you can effectively engage your viewers. This, in turn, will encourage them to take action.

Create a Quality Visual Experience Faster loading speeds means properly formatted images Visual content is an effective way to engage your and media content can load quickly and hassle free. audience and reach them not only on an intellectual but This is important because a one second delay in page also on an emotional level. The use of images can foster time equals a 7 percent loss in conversions, 11 percent feelings in your viewer, negative space can direct their fewer page views and a 16 percent decrease in customer eye to areas of the page you want to highlight, and color satisfaction. can not only cause an emotional response but also help encourage the viewer to take action. Whether through

40 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE photographs, icons, info graphics, negative spaces or video - the visual experience has a strong impact on your viewer.

Imagine the impression a person can make with A PRODUCTION OF VEGAS PBS their appearance. How they are dressed, their facial expressions, body language, etc., all make an instant impression and reflect in your willingness to hear what they have to offer you. Your website is the virtual representation of your company. Put your best foot forward!

SEASON 2 PREMIERE Friday, July 12 at 8 p.m. Experience of User Experience To increase your conversion rates, you need to engage your viewers to compel them to take action through your site experience. WINNER You may have excellent content, but it is vital that it TV PUBLIC INTEREST/ is laid out in an organized and user-friendly manner AWARENESS CATEGORY if you plan to direct the viewer to take action. An effective user experience will appeal to your viewer 2019 TELLY on an intellectual and emotional level. This is a mix of AWARDS art, science, and lots of testing. Testing to ensure that each page loads quickly, What people are saying... correctly and provides the right content and design is certainly not glamorous, but it is necessary to ensure all the work put into the presentation is delivered “Very impressed at how the show makes to the end user as intended. It cannot be stressed complex subject matters very accessible and enough how important it is to check and check again easy to understand.” – Community member that all platforms of your site provide a seamless user experience if you plan to turn your viewer into your client. “The show has great potential to make an impact.” – Panelist

“A wonderful opportunity to show our community working together on important issues.” – Panelist

VegasPBS.org/Nevada-Week @VegasPBS @NevadaWeek WYNN LAS VEGAS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS COMPLETE 10-MONTH REVITALIZATION OF THE SHADE TREE Women’s Shelter Receives Vital, Large-Scale Construction Upgrade

n May 9, 2019, Wynn Las Vegas announced the completion of its 10-month revitalization of The Shade O Tree, a 24-hour accessible shelter designed to specifically meet the needs of women and children in crisis. to narrow our project scope, it was quickly realized Following the resort’s partnership announcement with that there was an opportunity to make a much greater The Shade Tree in Aug. 2018, Wynn Las Vegas, with impact here. The Shade Tree residents deserve to be in assistance from more than 170 community partners, has an environment where they feel safe and dignified, and collectively donated more than 15,500 hours of labor, we hope that with these upgrades we’re helping them and a total of $2.5 million in donated labor costs and do just that.” in-kind donations of construction materials to make cosmetic and functional upgrades to the shelter from The combined investments from Wynn Las Vegas the ground-up. The Shade Tree, a Las Vegas-based non- and several community partners helped to alleviate profit organization, helps women and children who are substantial current and future construction costs for The victims of homelessness, sex trafficking and abuse. Shade Tree. The improved facility expands the capacity of the shelter, providing more women and children Renovations include, an all-new expanded kitchen that with temporary housing, meals, medical care, and other can better accommodate the more than 200,000 meals life-changing services that align with the shelter’s goal served there each year; full renovation of the first floor, of fostering stability, dignity and self-reliance. Wynn including an expanded intake center; full renovations to Las Vegas alone provided 2,717 hours of pro bono the second and third floor residential areas, including services to The Shade Tree in the areas of food safety, security, engineering and marketing – amounting to more than $295,000 in value – and $250,000 in overall construction costs.

“Words aren’t adequate to fully express our deep appreciation for the generosity and leadership of Wynn Las Vegas,” said Linda Perez, executive director of The Shade Tree. “The Wynn team has had an ongoing presence at our shelter for many months now, and their generosity is evident in so many forms, from monetary contributions, to volunteer hours, as well as taking on such a monumental community-wide initiative by securing nearly 200 partners to rally behind this project. “Wynn’s investment has significantly changed the overall energy of the facility, staff and more importantly, our residents. While the work is complete, the legacy of the project will positively impact our residents for years to all-new bathrooms, mattresses and linens; upgrades come. An improved and upgraded facility enhances to the common areas on each floor; increased security the overall living experience and elevates the efficiency measures; and a revitalized children’s play area. and operations of our organization’s programming and services. As a result, Wynn has rebuilt more than just “What began as an opportunity to aid an essential the physical structure of our building, it has rebuilt our community organization quickly became a project residents’ independence, stability and dignity.” of passion for our staff,” said Darrell Richards, vice president of construction, Wynn Design and Development. “As we filtered through the list of upgrades The Shade Tree facility needed and started

42 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Applications Open for the Public Policy Leadership Class

re you interested in becoming more engaged in our community? Do you want to be a more effective leader and advocate to improve education, the business climate, healthcare, and the quality of life? Have you considered serving in elected office, on a public board or commission, or on a board of education?

Thriving communities are the result of engaged leaders at all levels who are passionate and knowledgeable about creating positive change. Nowhere is this more important than in shaping public policies to solve problems and improve quality of life. Whether you want to serve in public office, on an appointed board or help drive meaningful solutions in our community, understanding good public policy is essential.

The Public Policy Leadership Series educates leaders on policy and governance issues so that they can be effective in positively shaping our community and be effective public leaders. The program is a partnership with the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs and the Leadership Foundation of Greater Las Vegas, a 501(c)(3) non-profit in affiliation with the Las Vegas Chamber that is dedicated to cultivating knowledgeable, engaged professionals and leaders.

Curriculum topics include: • Role of elected officials • Policy-making at the state and local levels • Understanding legislative process • Relationship between state and local government • Budget Process and revenue issues • Topical policy issues • Education Issues

The classes begin on Thursday, Sept. 5, and will take place Thursday evenings (2.5 hours per session) for six weeks. Sessions will be held at the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs on the UNLV campus. Applications are due Aug. 30.

To apply, go to www.Leadership.Vegas or contact Cara Clarke at [email protected]

44 BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VYP+ is an enhanced membership level for new and active VYP members that maximizes the VYP experience. VYP+ members have access to:

Special pricing at all VYP events

Advanced invitations to Bigwig Lunch Times and Community Conversations

VYP Excursions, to go behind-the-scenes to see some of Las Vegas’ most interesting businesses

A members-only database that you can use to update your information and connect with other VYP+ members

Added exposure, with a listing in the VYP+ member directory

Sitting on a VYP committee to help expand your leadership capacity and grow your network

VYP+ MEMBERSHIP IS $50 ANNUALLY.

JOIN VYP+ BY CONTACTING [email protected]. A PositivePositive OutlookOutlook Job OpportunitiesOpportunities The typical worker holds 12 jobs between the ages of 18 recent annual report. Similarly, the Governor’s Office of Theand typical50. And, worker while thereholds is 12 some jobs evidencebetween thatthe agesthis number of 18 recentWorkforce annual Innovation report. Similarly, helps create the Governor’s work-based Office learning of and 50. And, while there is some evidence that this number Workforce Innovation helps create work-based learning is rising, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that opportunities and provides access to dozens of internships, is rising, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that opportunities and provides access to dozens of internships, an average worker has been at their current job for 5.0 apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs through an average worker has been at their current job for 5.0 apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs through years, only slightly lower than the 5.1 years reported in initiatives like its LifeWorksNV.org learning hub. And the years, only slightly lower than the 5.1 years reported in initiatives like its LifeWorksNV.org learning hub. And the 2008. Moreover, in 2018, 33 percent of workers reported Governor’s Office of Economic Development, through 2008. Moreover, in 2018, 33 percent of workers reported Governor’s Office of Economic Development, through having worked for their current employer for 10 years or its Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada Fund, has having worked for their current employer for 10 years or its Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada Fund, has more, a higher percentage than a decade ago (32 percent). made strategic investments in high-demand, high-wage more, a higher percentage than a decade ago (32 percent). made strategic investments in high-demand, high-wage job training programs in fields such as cybersecurity, These statistics differ by level of educational attainment (e.g., job training programs in fields such as cybersecurity, These statistics differ by level of educational attainment (e.g., data analytics, advanced manufacturing and healthcare. those with a college degree tend to report longer tenures data analytics, advanced manufacturing and healthcare. those with a college degree tend to report longer tenures than those without a college degree); sex (e.g., men tend to For some, a separation from their current job creates the than those without a college degree); sex (e.g., men tend to For some, a separation from their current job creates the report slightly longer tenures than women); and age (e.g., impetus to start their own business. For those who do, report slightly longer tenures than women); and age (e.g., impetus to start their own business. For those who do, older workers tend to report significantly longer tenures than they’d be hard pressed to find a place better to do so than older workers tend to report significantly longer tenures than they’d be hard pressed to find a place better to do so than younger workers). They also vary by industry. Notably for Nevada. The U.S. Small Business Administration reported younger workers). They also vary by industry. Notably for Nevada. The U.S. Small Business Administration reported Southern Nevada, the leisure and hospitality industry tends Southern Nevada, the leisure and hospitality industry tends to have among the shortest job tenure rates, with a typical to have among the shortest job tenure rates, with a typical employee reporting only 3.0 years with their current employer. employee reporting only 3.0 years with their current employer. What we all know is that employment situations change. What we all know is that employment situations change. Some by choice. Some by circumstance. The most Some by choice. Some by circumstance. The most st century may very well be importantimportant jobjob skillskill inin thethe 2121st century may very well be adaptability. ThatThat said,said, forfor thosethose changingchanging jobs, jobs, there there has rarely, ifif ever,ever, beenbeen aa betterbetter economiceconomic climate. climate.

As of DecemberDecember 2018,2018, therethere werewere 7.37.3 millionmillion job job openings openings in in the UnitedUnited States.States. ByBy contrast,contrast, thethe numbernumber of of unemployed unemployed jobjob seekersseekers waswas onlyonly 6.36.3 millionmillion duringduring thethe same same month. month. Stated differently,differently, therethere areare moremore jobjob openingsopenings in in the the United StatesStates thanthan therethere areare peoplepeople lookinglooking to to fill fill them. them. In In December alone,alone, jobjob openingsopenings increasedincreased byby nearly nearly 200,000 200,000 nationwide, ledled byby 88,00088,000 additionaladditional openings openings in in construction construction JeremyJeremy Aguero, Aguero, Principal Principal Analyst Analyst and 84,000 additionaladditional openingsopenings inin leisureleisure and and hospitality. hospitality.

With this manymany jobjob openings,openings, perhapsperhaps itit doesn’tdoesn’t come come as as a a surprise thatthat 3.53.5 millionmillion peoplepeople quitquit theirtheir jobjob in in December December thatthat Nevada Nevada had had 254,000 254,000 small small businesses businesses in in2018, 2018, nearly nearly 2018, more thanthan twicetwice thethe numbernumber ofof peoplepeople laid laid off off duringduring 7,7007,700 more more than than were were reported reported in in 2017. 2017. And, And, nearly nearly 72,000 72,000 that samesame month.month. ForFor thosethose displaced,displaced, the the median median duration duration ofof those those Nevada Nevada small small businesses businesses were were minority-owned. minority-owned. of unemployment hashas fallenfallen toto 8.98.9 weeks,weeks, one-third one-third the the time requiredrequired toto findfind aa jobjob inin JuneJune 20102010 (25.2 (25.2 weeks). weeks). ChangeChange is is never never easy, easy, particularly particularly when when it itis isunexpected. unexpected. ThatThat said, said, with with more more jobs jobs than than people people to to take take them, them, with with Beyond this,this, thosethose separatedseparated fromfrom theirtheir jobjob today today benefit benefit moremore programs programs and and tools tools than than ever ever before before designed designed to to tremendously fromfrom trainingtraining andand placementplacement programs programs connectconnect workers workers with with jobs, jobs, and and with with an an economy economy that that is is developed andand expandedexpanded duringduring thethe GreatGreat Recession. Recession. In In asas pro-entrepreneur pro-entrepreneur as as any any in in the the nation, nation, the the prospects prospects Southern Nevada,Nevada, WorkforceWorkforce ConnectionsConnections administers administers state state forfor Nevada Nevada workers workers leaving leaving one one job job in in search search of of another another and federal fundsfunds specificallyspecifically toto helphelp jobjob seekersseekers access access areare better better today today than than at at any any period period in in recent recent history. history. employment, education,education, trainingtraining andand supportsupport services. services. Over 1,370 youngyoung peoplepeople andand 2,4002,400 adultsadults were were assisted assisted ® ® by Workforce ConnectionsConnections lastlast year,year, accordingaccording to to its its most most ITIT MATTERS MATTERS WHO WHO YOU YOU BANK BANK WITH WITH

CONTACT USUS TODAYTODAY nsbank.com/outlook ® ® 702.383.0009 46 702.383.0009BUSINESS VOICE JULY 2019 LAS VEGAS METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AA division division of of Zions Zions Bancorporation, Bancorporation, N.A. N.A. Member Member FDIC FDIC DRUG NAME QTY ...... RETAIL DISCOUNT PRICE ...... SAVINGS Tips for Mental Wellness Sertraline 100mg Tablet 30 ...... $24.99 $11.32 ...... 55% Talk with your Ask for help, Topiramate 25mg Tablet 30 ...... $42.84 $10.37 ...... 76% doctor and learn connect with more about others, join a Fluoxetine 20mg Capsules 30 ...... $44.61 $10.54 ...... 76% mental wellness support group Bupropion 150mg E Tablet 30 ...... $38.42 $13.69...... 64% Lorazepam 1mg Tablet 30 ...... $17.19 $10.79 ...... 37% Save on Medications *MEDICATION PRICES VARY BY PHARMACY AND PRESCRIPTION AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE with the Nevada Drug Card OVER TIME. ASK YOUR PHARMACIST FOR THE ACTUAL DISCOUNTED PRICE. THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INSURANCE.

Free Statewide Prescription Assistance Program

Compliments of:

New NEVADA DRUG CARD APP Proud Supporter of: Visit NevadaDrugCard.com/app to download.

A donation will be made to your local CMN hospital each time a prescription is processed using this coupon.

» For more information contact: Suzanne Domoracki | [email protected] LIVE.WORK. LEAD.

JULY 2019

Chamber Helps Pass Landmark Education Funding Plan

Join The Las Vegas Chamber’s New Executive Women’s Council A network of female leaders with the skills, insight and passion to enhance Southern Nevada’s business community.

• Inspire women to positively influence the region’s business, government and nonprofit sectors • Elevate women’s careers through training, mentoring and relationship-building • Support women to meet their career and life goals and focus on community engagement

Learn more about this dues-based council and apply now at LVChamber.com or call 702.641.5822. The Las Vegas Chamber Presenting Sponsor Showcases Top Leaders in Nevada

Program Sponsors Episodes Air the First Sunday and Various Times/Days Each Month

Presenting Sponsor:

Location Sponsor: Must be or become a member of the Las Vegas Chamber to join the Executive Women’s Council

LVChamber.com | 702.641.5822 | @LVChamber