LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Local small businesses are some of the hardest hit by the pandemic.
Now they’re beginning to look ahead as the economy continues to open in the Vegas Valley, leaving owners optimistic.
Read the full story on KSNV Channel 3, here: https://news3lv.com/news/local/las-vegas-small-biz-owners-are-hesitant-but-optimistic-as-city-opens
Advanced Management Group
President
Advanced Management Group Nevada, LLC is a full-service real estate management company. With more than ten years of experience, including conventional, hotel, and weekly property management, Bret Holmes works with property owners to achieve optimal results. Holmes is president of the Nevada State Apartment Association and is a delegate for the National Apartment Association.
AET Environmental
Director of Environmental Affairs
Edward J. Domanico is Director of Environmental Affairs for AET Environmental, a leading and highly credentialed provider of environmental and industrial services, hazardous waste handling and remediation in Nevada. Responsible for strategic marketing policies, as well as expanding the company’s operating capability throughout the state and region, he brings more than 27 years of environmental experience to this role as an industry leader. AET provides environmental services to many of the Strip Properties. AET provides service to several Medical and Industrial facilities, as well as the Nevada Test Site.
American Medical Response
Manager
Damon Schilling is Manager of Government Affairs for 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 will soon graduate from Nevada State College with a BA in Business Administration.
Bank of Nevada
CEO
John Guedry has more than 30 years of experience in financial services in Nevada. Prior to joining Bank of Nevada, he was CEO and President of Business Bank of Nevada until it was purchased by City National Bank where he remained as Executive Vice President.
Cox Communications
Market Vice President
Mike Bolognini oversees all cable television and telecommunications operations for Cox Communications in Southern Nevada including its residential, commercial and hospitality industry products encompassing voice, video, and data services. He has been with the company since August 2009. Bolognini has more than three decades of experience in the telecommunications industry and has an extensive background in sales and executive sales management at industry leading organizations such as Verizon, AT&T, Fujitsu and Lucent. He sits on the boards of Las Vegas Philharmonic, Salvation Army, YMCA and Southwest Cable Communications Association.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
President and General Manager
Mike Murphy has been the President and General Manager of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nevada since 2006. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing all commercial group and individual business in Nevada. With more than half a million members in Nevada, Anthem is the second largest insurance company in the state. Anthem is a customer-focused company that is dedicated to providing its members with access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.
Arcata Associates, Inc.
CEO and President
Tim Wong is CEO and President of Arcata Associates, Inc. a Las Vegas based technical services company. Arcata provides Hardware, Software and Systems Engineering, Information Technology (IT), Logistics, Multimedia, and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) services in support of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and other government agencies. Arcata is a family-owned business that is celebrating 39 years in the Las Vegas Valley. Wong currently serves as the Treasurer of Nevada Public Radio, Board of Director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District’s Mesquite QALIC B, and is a member of the Cox Communications Community Advisory Board.
BNY Mellon Wealth Management
VP / Senior Director
Robert “Bob” Glaser is a Vice President and Senior Director and is responsible for providing comprehensive wealth management solutions to clients. Bob has over 30 years of financial services experience including in Private, Retail and Corporate banking groups; in the consulting practice of a Big-4 accounting firm; and as a Chief Financial Officer. Bob is a graduate of the University of Utah and the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Delaware. He also serves the community through Communities In Schools Nevada; Nevada Public Radio; Opportunity Village; and the Alexander Dawson School.
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP
Managing Partner
Ellen Schulhofer is a shareholder in the firm’s Las Vegas office and has served as managing partner of the Las Vegas office since 2007. As a member of the firm’s executive committee and former co-managing partner of the firm, Ellen has gained extensive leadership and strategic counseling experience which, together with her calm and pragmatic approach, is invaluable to her business and corporate advisory practice. She leads the corporate group in Nevada, advising clients in a broad range of M&A, debt and equity financing, restructuring and other corporate transactions.
Cashman Equipment Co.
Chief Executive Officer/Vice Chairwoman of the Board
Established in 1931, Cashman Equipment Co. is one of the oldest Caterpillar dealers in the United States. Before assuming full-time duties in 1995, MaryKaye Cashman was a registered nurse. She is a member of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, the World Presidents’ Organization, the Committee of 200, the Nevada Development Authority, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Las Vegas, and serves on the Community Advisory board of St. Rose Hospitals.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada
Director, Marketing & Public Relations
Lisa Santwer oversees marketing and communications for CCCN, which specializes in oncology, hematology, breast surgery and research. Santwer helped establish CCCN’s nonprofit, ORION Cancer Foundation, and serves on the Executive Committee of Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada. Her community activities include serving as co-chair for 2015 Leadership Las Vegas’ Health Day and advisory board for UNLV School of Health Sciences. Santwer is a graduate of Leadership Las Vegas and a 2012 Hall of Fame inductee into the Women’s Chamber of Commerce.
Cornerstone Merchant Services, Inc.
President/CEO
Chuck founded Cornerstone Merchant Services, an independently licensed merchant card processor, in 2004. By cultivating a culture of integrity and personal responsibility, Chuck led Cornerstone to become the largest credit card processor in Nevada within a few years. Since founding Cornerstone, Chuck has volunteered time to various non-profit organizations throughout the community. He currently sits as the acting President of Helping Hands of Vegas Valley, which he has been a part of since 2010.
Desert Radiologists
Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Bodager joined Desert Radiology in 2016 bringing over 20 years of senior level management experience from his roles as chief executive and chief financial officer for large medical practices, as well as from his involvement on several for-profit and not-for-profit boards. As Chief Executive Officer Mr. Bodager provides hands-on management of daily operations as well as oversees the company’s strategic development and long-term institutional goals. Mr. Bodager works closely with the senior management team and directs internal functions for the achievement of corporate objectives.
Dickinson Wright PLLC
Member Partner
Michael N. Feder is a member in Dickinson Wright PLLC’s Litigation Department. He has extensive experience representing and counseling clients in commercial and business litigation matters involving banking, contracts, copyright infringement, corporate law, employment law, entertainment and sports law, franchise law, fraud, gaming, patent infringement, real estate, RICO, trademark infringement, securities law, shareholder and partnership disputes, unfair competition, among other areas of law. Mr. Feder is also on the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada.
ERA Brokers Consolidated
Executive Vice President of Southern Nevada
A Realtor for over 35 years, 27 as a Broker-Owner, Fafie now serves as Executive Vice President for Southern Nevada for ERA Brokers Consolidated, a multistate brokerage with a 38 year history of accomplishment and leadership. Fafie was the 2008 Chairman of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees. She is a 1995 graduate of Leadership Las Vegas. Fafie is the current President of the Chamber Insurance Benefit Board. Fafie has served on numerous community boards for business and non-profit organizations.
Eureka Casino Resort
President
Gregory Lee is President of Rancho Mesquite Casino, LLC; a company that operates the Eureka Casino Resort, Mesquite, Nevada, a company he co-founded with his parents. Lee remains involved in the Lee family business, but focuses his energy on the development, marketing and leadership cultivation of the Mesquite operation. Lee serves on the Board of the Mesquite Resort Association, the Mesquite Health and Wellness Foundation and the Nevada Independent Gaming Operators Organization. Lee is a graduate of Harvard College and earned a J.D. from the University of Southern California.
Findlay Automotive Group
COO/CFO
Mr. Corder is a graduate of Montana State University. After college he joined GMAC in 1980 and was named Branch Manager in Las Vegas in 1992. He later joined the Findlay Automotive Group where he now serves as both COO and CFO. He is past Board President of Safe Nest and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. He has served on several boards including the Findlay Education Foundation, the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow and the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada.
Greenberg Traurig
Shareholder
Michael J. Bonner is a member of the executive committee of the gaming law section of the State Bar of Nevada, the executive committee and board of trustees of the Nevada Development Authority, and is Past Chairman of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees. Bonner is routinely listed as one of the “Leading Individual” Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions attorneys in Nevada and was recognized in September 2009 as one of the top lawyers in Nevada in the Legal Elite edition of Nevada Business Magazine.
Helix Electric
President
In 1987, Victor Fuchs began his career as a Project Manager at Helix Electric, one of the fastest growing full-service electrical contractors in the nation, and quickly rose to the ranks of President of the Las Vegas office. He acquired ownership of the Las Vegas company in 2001 where he is currently President and Managing Member. He is known for his generosity throughout the community and has a deep commitment to employee training and safety. The company has been the recipient of numerous local and national awards.
Henriksen Butler Nevada
President
As President of Henriksen Butler Nevada - Las Vegas, Heather Bressler leads her local team with broad product expertise, strong knowledge of industry trends, high-performance work environments and interior design, to deliver exceptional workspaces for her customers. Bressler is committed to helping clients create spaces where they can do their best work and impact the business results of their organization. She has more than 14 years’ experience in the furniture industry and a bachelor’s degree in design from the University of Kentucky.
HighTower Las Vegas
Managing Director, Partner
Mike PeQueen, CFA, CFP is Managing Director, Partner of HighTower Las Vegas, one of the most experienced wealth management firms in the western United States. Previously, he served as Senior Vice-President and Senior Portfolio Manager at Merrill Lynch. Mike completed his undergraduate degree in Finance at UNLV and his Masters in Finance and Banking at Boston University. In addition, he holds the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Financial Planner designations.
North America Gaming & Interactive of IGT PLC
Chief Executive Officer
Renato Ascoli, CEO of North America Gaming & Interactive of IGT PLC, is responsible for product development, manufacturing, marketing, and delivery for the company. Prior to 2015, he served as General Manager of GTECH S.p.A. and President of GTECH Products and Services. He also served as Head of Italian Operations. In 2006, he joined GTECH S.p.A. as director of the gaming division. Mr. Ascoli has led international marketing efforts for Fincentro Group - Armando Curcio Editore and was a consultant to Ambrosetti Group. He graduated from Bocconi University in Milan.
REQ West Coast Inc
Executive Vice President
Justin Cohen is the EVP of REQ Las Vegas. With 15 years spent focused on growing Clients’ businesses, Justin possesses a unique collection of marketing and leadership skills. He is a 2015 Grad of Leadership LV, a Trustee of the Outside Las Vegas Foundation and a veteran Wish Granter for Make a Wish of Southern Nevada. Justin hails from Boston, attended Cornell University, and, when not spending time with his twins Parker and Reed or working, he can be found running in the mountains around Las Vegas.
International Market Centers
Chief Executive Officer
Robert Maricich is widely recognized as one of the home furnishings industry’s most innovative leaders. He was instrumental developing the strategy for the creation of International Market Centers, L.P. and for raising over $1 billion to fund the purchase of the International Home Furnishings Center, ShowPlace properties, and the Market Square properties in High Point, N.C. and merging them with World Market Center Las Vegas forming the world’s largest operator of premier showroom space. International Market Centers encompasses over 11.7 million square feet of world-class exhibition space.
KTNV-TV, Channel 13 Action News
VP/General Manager
Chris Way is VP/General Manager of KTNV-TV, 13 Actions News, and E.W. Scripps company. He oversees all business and operations activities of Las Vegas' ABC affiliate. Chris recently returned to Las Vegas after a short stint at KMTV-TV, the Scripps-owned CBS affiliate in Omaha, Nebraska, where he served as General Manager. Previously, he worked at KLAS-TV and is looking forward to re-engaging with business and community partners. Chris held volunteer roles with the United Way of Southern Nevada, the Nellis Support Team, and the Las-Vegas Clark County Library District Foundation.
Las Vegas Woman Magazine
Owner and President
Stephanie Kocher is the new owner and president of Las Vegas Woman Magazine. The publication has been in print for 18 years with a mission to educate, entertain and inspire. Stephanie brings a lifetime of marketing and publishing experience and has worked side-by-side with her mother, Ruth Lauber, who is the current vice-president of Las Vegas Woman Magazine. Between the both of them, there is over 60 years of magazine experience. Stephanie is also a member of the United Way's Tocqueville Society and Women's Leadership Council.
Miracle Flights
Chief Executive Officer
Mark E. Brown currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Miracle Flights. His past leadership includes CEO of Zen Entertainment, former VP of The Howard Hughes Corporation and Station Casinos, and as a partner and president of R&R Partners. Mark has an extensive background in nonprofit activities. He has chaired multiple organizations including YMCA of Southern Nevada. He also managed all philanthropic donations for both the Howard Hughes Corporation and Station Casinos.
Mission Support and Test Services LLC
Division Manager, Emergency Services & Operation Support
Jim (JD) Daniels is the Division Manager for Emergency Services and Operation Support for Mission Support and Test Services LLC, the Management and Operating Contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office. He is responsible for managing the Emergency Response Organization that encompasses Fire & Rescue operations, Medical response, Command & Control operations and Emergency planning. Daniels holds a Bachelor’s degree of Business Management and a Master’s degree of Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix.
Nevada Broadcasters Association
President
Mitch Fox, long-time Nevada broadcaster has been selected as the President and CEO of the Nevada Broadcasters Association. Fox was selected after an extensive, nationwide search. He brings more than 30 years of broadcasting experience to the position including his first job at KABC-TV in Los Angeles, at KTNV-TV in Las Vegas as a general assignment reporter and as director of production and programming for Vegas PBS. He is most well-known as a debate moderator, legislative/political reporter and host of “Nevada Week in Review.” Fox was also communications director for the City of North Las Vegas and Nevada State Director for the Porter Group, a Washington DC-based lobbying firm.
Nevada Drug Card
Program Developer
Suzanne Domoracki has 25 years of progressive sales and marketing experience directing the activities of regional supervisory and multi-market sales personnel. Prior to joining Nevada Drug Card, she held similar supervisory positions in the health and beauty industries and oversaw all sales activity in the Western U.S. for a nationally recognized manufacturer of point-of-care oral fluid drug testing devices. She is involved with several local clubs and organizations.
Nevada HAND
President & CEO
Audra Hamernik is the new President and CEO of Nevada HAND. She brings more than 25 years of experience in real estate, financial services, social impact investing and lending, and community leadership. She was most recently the Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority. She has also served as Principal of A. Hamernik & Associates, Inc., and as Executive Director of Bluestem Housing Partners, a nonprofit housing developer. She earned her Master degree, as well as her Bachelor degree, in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Illinois.
Nevada State Bank
President and Chief Executive Officer
Terry A. Shirey serves as President and Chief Executive Officer for Nevada State Bank, a division of ZB, N.A. and Executive Vice President of Zions Bancorporation. Named President and CEO in January 2017, Shirey formerly served as Chief Financial Officer for six years before being named President and COO in September 2014. Shirey oversees all five banking lines of business – retail, real estate, small business, commercial, and private banking – as well as all bank operations in Nevada. Shirey holds a certified public accountant (CPA) certificate. He has more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry, with the past 14 spent managing finance and operations for major banks and bank holding companies. Shirey holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Wyoming. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce, as Vice-Chair of the College of Southern Nevada Foundation and is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization.
Newmark
Senior Managing Director
Larry Singer, a senior managing director at Newmark Knight Frank, is a 40-year veteran of commercial real estate and one of Southern Nevada’s top producing commercial brokers. His team has represented national and local clients including Cirque Du Soleil, Westcare Foundation, Southern Nevada Health District, Greenburg Traurig, Ainsworth Game Technology and Clark County. He is a member of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber Board of Trustees and has served as chairman of both the Lied Institute of Real Estate Studies at UNLV and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada.
NV Energy
President and Chief Executive Officer
Paul Caudill was named president of NV Energy in December 2013. Most recently, Caudill was president of MidAmerican Solar, a division of MidAmerican Renewables LLC. Prior to joining MidAmerican in 2012, Caudill was CEO and president of Phoenix Solar U.S. He also served as vice president, global systems operations for SunPower Corporation. Caudill began his career in the energy industry with Bechtel Power Corporation in 1976. He has extensive experience in commissioning, start-up and outage management at generating facilities throughout the United States.
Orgill/Singer & Associates, Inc.
Chief Executive Officer
David Dahan brings more than two decades of insurance industry experience to Orgill/Singer. A 41-year resident and active supporter of his local community, Dahan serves on various community boards such as Las Ventanas Retirement Community, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, the Nevada Restaurant Association and the governing board of North Vista Hospital. KLAV 1230 AM radio has recently given Dahan an opportunity to reveal his newest passion as host of Community Speaks – a conversation with local leaders.
R & O Construction Inc
VP of Business Development
Chet Opheikens has been employed by R&O Construction for 23 years. Chet is VP of Business Development for R&O’s Las Vegas Regional Office. Chet builds and nurtures client relationships that generate qualified construction leads and manages the pre-construction services team. Chet is involved in many local organizations such as NAIOP, ICSC, NPFMA, LVMCC, Nellis AFB Honorary Commander and currently sits as Chairman of the Board of the Henderson Development Association.
Roseman University of Health Sciences
President
Since 2011, Renee Coffman has served as president of Roseman University of Health Sciences, a Henderson-based private, not-for-profit educational institution she co-founded in 1999. During her first four years as president, she has helped advance the university’s mission to positively impact the health, education, and wellness of the community through the establishment of a second campus in Southern Nevada, located in Summerlin, the expansion of medical research programs, and the founding of an allopathic College of Medicine.
Smart City Networks
President
As the president of Smart City Networks, Mark Haley oversees the sales and operations teams and all strategic corporate initiatives. With over 30 years of experience in the convention industry, Mark has worked with many of the largest convention centers, stadiums, and arenas in North America. Mark has a unique perspective having worked as a facility manager and exclusive facility partner in a variety of roles. This perspective has led to speaking opportunities in the United States and abroad. He is a member of IAVM, AIPC, and IAEE.
Sunrise Health System
Chief Executive Officer
Todd Sklamberg is the Chief Executive Officer of the 700-bed hospital that is part of the Sunrise Health System in Las Vegas. Prior to that, Sklamberg served as the CEO of Sunrise Children’s Hospital and as Vice President of Strategic Operations and Facilities for St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Sklamberg has served the Las Vegas community on the Board of Trustees for the Sunrise Children’s Foundation, March of Dimes and Ronald McDonald House Charities, and currently is on the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee.
Ted Wiens Tire & Auto Centers
President
Ted Wiens Tire & Auto Center was established in Las Vegas in 1948. President Ted Wiens Jr. is a past chairman of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees, serves on the Government Affairs Committee and is a Prospector. He is also affiliated with the Boulder Dam Area Council Boy Scouts of America, Community Action Against Rape and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada. Additionally, Wiens is involved with the Tire Industry Association of North America.
The Howard Hughes Corporation
President Summerlin
The Howard Hughes Corporation, a publically held company, owns, manages and develops commercial, residential and mixed-use real estate. These assets include master planned communities in Maryland, Texas and Nevada; operating properties; and development opportunities in18 states. Kevin T. Orrock oversees all aspects of implementation of the Summerlin community, from planning and design to sales and marketing. Orrock began his career with Howard Hughes in 1974. He holds a BS in business administration from Wittenberg University and an MBA from UNLV.
Kelley Company
CEO
Kara Kelley is a proven CEO with expertise in business and political strategy as well as marketing, media relations and organizational leadership skills. As the former CEO of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, Kelley led the organization to become Nevada’s most influential business association. Kelley has built a reputation as a tireless advocate for business and free enterprise and was one of only 120 business leaders to be invited by President Barack Obama to participate in his 2009 Jobs Summit. As president of The Kelley Co., Kelley advises companies on branding, business strategy and organizational development.
The Korte Company
President
With more than 32 years of experience in the construction industry, Greg Korte is President of The Korte Company’s Las Vegas Division. Greg is Board Chair of United Way of Southern Nevada, a member of the NAIOP Government Affairs Committee, Las Vegas Chapter of World Presidents’ Organization and the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce. He has illustrated his commitment and dedication to the industry as well as to the community. Greg attributes his work ethic, motivation, and to “always do the right thing,” to his father – who founded the company 58 years ago.
The PENTA Building Group
Chief Operating Officer
With the firm since 2004, John Cannito is the Chief Operating Officer for The PENTA Building Group. He has worked in the commercial construction industry for over 24 years; 19 of those specific to Las Vegas. Boards he currently serves on include Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA), Opportunity Village Arc Board, and Junior Achievement. John is married to Lisa Cannito. They have four children together, Anna, Grace, Maddie, and Sarah.
Valley Health System
Regional Vice President
Karla Perez serves as the Regional Vice President of Universal Health Services. In her current role, Karla provides oversight to the operations of Spring Valley, Summerlin, Desert Springs, Valley, and Centennial Hills Hospital Medical Centers in Las Vegas, and Northern Nevada Medical Center in Sparks, Nevada. Karla has worked in the Las Vegas community for over 30 years. She is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Town Square Las Vegas
General Manager
Mike Wethington manages all daily operating functions for the center, which opened in November of 2007. He works closely with development, construction, marketing, leasing and individual retailers. Wethington has more than 27 years of retail management experience, including general manager positions at Galleria at Sunset in Henderson and Victoria Gardens in Southern California. He is a Certified Shopping Center Manager and holds a degree in finance and real estate from New Mexico State University.
U.S. Bank
Market President
Clark Wood joined U.S. Bank in 2014 as Market President, overseeing commercial banking and the gaming division. Clark came from Thunder Valley Casino Resort where he had been VP of Finance and a member of their development corporation. He has nearly 30 years of experience in the gaming and financial sectors. Clark earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. He is currently serving on the boards of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance and United Way of Southern Nevada.
Weststar Credit Union
President / CEO
A transplant to Las Vegas, Rick has been President/CEO of WestStar Credit Union since 2010. WestStar serves the gaming industry in Nevada. Under Rick’s leadership, the credit union has focused on outstanding service to its members and in giving back to the communities the credit union serves. WestStar has sponsored events to support local charities in Las Vegas and Reno. Rick and his wife have two boys, one a freshman at the University of Oregon and the other a junior in high school. His wife works in real estate.
William Hill Race & Sports Book
CEO
Joe Asher has been the CEO of William Hill US since 2012. Asher has a long background in the gaming industry and a passion for the sports betting business. Previously, Asher was an attorney and held management positions at several racetracks. Asher attended the University of Delaware and graduated magna cum laude from Widener University School of Law. Asher also served as a judicial clerkship with the Supreme Court of Delaware and is admitted to the bar in Delaware and New York.
500 Group
CEO
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.
Affinity Gaming
CEO
Mr. Silberling joined the Affinity team in 2014 after holding a senior leadership position at Caesars Entertainment Corporation, formerly known as Harrah’s Entertainment Inc., with more than two decades’ experience and a proven track record in the gaming industry. He recently concluded an assignment in the U.K. as President of International Operations where his hands on leadership style resulted in the successful turnaround of more than 12 properties in seven countries. Mr. Silberling graduated with a BA in Economics from Dartmouth College and an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management.
Dignity Health - St Rose Dominican Hospitals
Interim President/CEO
His oversight encompasses Dignity Health’s multi-site, multi-area healthcare service offerings in Nevada, including acute-care hospital operations, physician relationships, ambulatory and outpatient service delivery systems and healthcare philanthropy. Mr. Bassett has more than 35 years of experience in managing complex hospital operations, ranging from clinical departments to multi-hospital systems. He has held multiple leadership roles in health care with a variety of organizations, including Dignity Health’s Mercy Hospital in Bakersfield.
Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino
National Sales Manager
With more than 14 years in the LV hotel sales industry, Allen Oakley serves as National Sales Manager at the Golden Nugget. Prior to this role, he was Director of Community Development at the American Cancer Society, Exec Director at Baskow DMC, Ravella Lake Las Vegas and Caesars Entertainment. He is a U.S. Navy Veteran having served tours in the Persian Gulf and Japan. He served on the maintenance team with the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration team, the Blue Angels. His leadership will ensure that the Golden Nugget performs above expectations.
KLAS TV Channel 8
VP/General Manager
Lisa Howfield is the Vice-President and General Manager of KLAS-TV 8. She joined the CBS affiliate in August 2015 and has 23+ years of local television broadcast experience. Howfield serves on the board of Nevada Broadcasters Association, Core Academy and the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce. Broadcasting & Cable awarded Howfield “2008 General Manager of the Year” and she co-authored college textbook “Managing Electronic Media.” Lisa moved to Las Vegas at 6 months. She graduated from Bonanza High School and earned her B.A. degree in Business Communications from Pepperdine University.
Scientific Games
Vice President of Corporate Communications
Susan Cartwright joined Scientific Games as Vice President of Corporate Communications in January 2016. She leads Scientific Games’ global external and internal communications, as well as the Company’s corporate social responsibility program. Ms. Cartwright focuses on developing and executing the Company’s global communications strategy and tactics, corporate branding, executive thought leadership, web initiatives and merger communications. Prior to Scientific Games, Ms. Cartwright served as Vice President of Corporate Communications for IGT and held a number of senior-management positions in marketing, advertising, communications, and operations with leading global communications and advertising agencies.
Thomas & Mack Development Group
President
Rick Myers is President of Thomas & Mack Development Group, a commercial development company with projects throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Thomas & Mack performs third party real estate services, and is currently managing the development of the Metro Police Department’s new headquarters campus. Mr. Myers is a past president of the Southern Nevada Chapter of NAIOP and longtime member of the Board of Directors. Prior to joining Thomas & Mack, Rick worked for The Howard Hughes Corporation and Marnell Properties. He graduated from the University of Southern California.
Vegas Golden Knights
President
Kerry Bubolz joined the Vegas Golden Knights as the franchise’s President on November 1, 2016. Bubolz oversees all of the business ventures for Las Vegas’ first major league professional sports franchise. Prior to the Golden Knights, Bubolz spent 13 years with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers and Quicken Loans Arena organization. Since 2013, Bubolz was the franchise’s president of business operations. Prior to his tenure in Cleveland, Bubolz enjoyed successful runs with multiple teams in various leagues around the country. He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University.
Professional Bull Riders (PBR)
CEO
Since 2015 Sean Gleason has been CEO of Professional Bull Riders (PBR), one of America’s fastest-growing sports, also competing in four additional countries. Previously, he spent 15 years as a senior executive overseeing nearly every aspect of the sport. Prior to joining PBR in 2001, Gleason oversaw the marketing and business development for all sports projects at Sierra Sports. He served as executive or supervising producer of six Grammy-nominated video and record projects and six multi-platinum video projects while with Miramar Productions, Inc. Sean graduated from Western Washington University.
Deloitte
Managing Partner
Tim Bremer has been selected to serve as the new managing partner of Deloitte’s Nevada practice. Tim has extensive experience serving publicly held companies. During his 25 year career in public accounting, Tim has served SEC registrants as well as some of the firm’s most prestigious clients in the consumer and industrial products industry segment, and was also the managing partner of Deloitte’s Audit and Enterprise Risk Services practice for the aerospace and defense industry for seven years. Tim is also an avid golfer, and he and his wife Randi live in Henderson.
RubinBrown
Partner and Gaming Services National Practice Leader
Daniel Holmes is a Partner and Gaming Services National Practice Leader for RubinBrown, a full service accounting firm dedicated to serving its clients, team members and surrounding community both inside and outside the workplace. For RubinBrown, Daniel is responsible for overseeing client service teams, the continued expansion of the gaming practice and assisting clients in implementing more efficient regulatory compliance programs, through an in-depth understand of internal controls and financial reporting standards. Daniel graduated with a BS in Business Administration and an MBA from Rockhurst University’s Helzberg School of Management.
Elite Medical Center
Partner
Dr. Shannon Orsak and his partners are proud to bring VIP style healthcare to the Vegas strip. Our 22 patient bed hospital will specialize in urgent and emergency medicine. Dr Orsak has great success with this style of medical care and started the very first free standing emergency room in Texas in 2007. As a physician for 23 years, he understands the need for personalized, quality healthcare. Elite Medical Center is sure to treat each guest as a VIP while getting patients back to work, vacation and everyday life.
City National Bank
Chief Market Strategist, Senior Vice President and Nevada Marketing and PR Manager
Paul Stowell is chief market strategist, senior VP and Nevada marketing and PR manager for City National Bank in Nevada and Orange County. He has a bachelors in broadcast journalism from BYU and was recognized in 2013 as “Business Person of the Year” by Nevada’s Future Business Leaders of America. Stowell is an advisory board member of Touro University Nevada, an HSB advisory council member for West Career and Technical Academy, and a counselor for the Boy Scouts of America. In addition, he continues to serve several other non-profit organizations.
Manpower
Market Vice President
Shameer Tharani is Market Vice President of Manpower Inc. of Southern Nevada, a Fortune 500 global leader in staffing and workforce solutions. Shameer has spent the past 15 years growing and leading Manpower teams throughout North America. He is a highly qualified business leader who leverages strong interpersonal skills, leadership and creativity to achieve business objectives. Passionate about putting people to work, Shameer currently leads the Manpower Las Vegas team, providing strategic guidance, developing client relationships and collaborating with community partners.
Mesquite Gaming
VP of Security & Government Affairs
Dick serves as VP of Security & Government Affairs for Mesquite Gaming, LLC which owns and operates the Casablanca Resort & Casino and the Virgin River Casino in Mesquite, Nevada. Following his retirement as a special agent of the FBI, he became Director of Security for Michael Gaughan's Coast Casinos and subsequently for Boyd Gaming. Currently, he maintains a strong liaison with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and with the Nevada Gaming Enforcement Division. He also serves as a member of the Nevada Corporate Security Vice Presidents Group
Omni Limousine
President & Chief Executive Officer
Lisa de Marigny leads a team that has a passion for luxury and innovation. Omni is known for its pristine chauffeured fleet of black sedans, SUVs, limousines and mini coaches. The team will soon be opening Tango Car, the first On-demand ADA-Compliant Transportation Network Company (TNC). Lisa’s dance background and desire to provide freedom to the paratransit community made Tango a fitting name for this unique startup. Lisa grew up in the transportation business while earning a B.S. Organizational Leadership from Penn State University and she is a 2012 graduate of Leadership Las Vegas.
Frequency Pictures
Executive Producer
Karl Nickoley started Frequency Pictures in Hollywood, CA in 2011. Frequency is an award-winning production company that produces national and regional commercials, brand films, training series, social media campaigns and feature films. In 2017, Frequency expanded to Las Vegas producing campaigns for Visit Las Vegas and The Grand Canyon. Karl has over a decade of experience producing campaigns for major brands like Geico, AT&T, Ford including equity raises for internationally distributed feature films. An honors graduate of The Los Angeles Film School, he is certified in Film Finance from Pepperdine University.
Safe Life Defense
President
Nick Groat is the President of Safe Life Defense, a Las Vegas based company known for award-winning body armor. Safe Life Defense armor offers unparalleled protection and is favored by Police, EMS, Security, and civilians all over the United States. Safe Life Defense has revolutionized the body armor industry effectively using social marketing and eliminating barriers to ownership through easy online ordering. A lifelong entrepreneur, Groat is known for being an action driven businessman, fearlessly taking risks, quickly adopting new technology, and redefining the future of personal protection.
Downtown Grand Las Vegas
Chairman
Seth Schorr is Chairman of Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino. The casino resort is the embodiment of Schorr’s vision of a downtown Las Vegas hospitality experience. Since 1991, he served the Wynn Resorts team, developing the international marketing department in Macau. He and his partner, Jeffrey Fine, co-founded Fifth Street Gaming. Schorr developed the first fully integrated eSports program. He is a graduate of the Univ. of Pennsylvania, a YPO member, sits on numerous boards and was appointed by Gov. Sandoval to serve on Nevada State Board of Museums & History.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Chase Rankin is the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Nevada’s largest and most widely read news and information source in Nevada, northern Arizona and southern Utah. He leads sales and marketing initiatives of the Review-Journal’s strong portfolio of print and digital niche products, including Desert Deals, Sunday Select, LUXURY Magazine, Highlander Magazine, and El Tiempo to name a few.
Turkish Airlines
General Manager
Ersen Engin grew up on Turkey’s west coast in the town of Canakkale. As a boy he dreamt of being involved in the aviation industry as a pilot, but ultimately ended up in the industry’s, management side. Ersen began his career with Turkish Airlines 22 years working his way up from a part-time position while attending Marmara University. He moved with his family in 2015 to Los Angeles to become the General Manager of the Los Angeles office. Prior to this Engin was General Manager in Manchester, England.
Novum-U
Director of Education
Edward Bevilacqua is Director of Education at Novum-U, a business that helps prisoners become capitalists. Novum-U has five locations, including 3 in Southern NV and Reno. 1,000+ people will gain valuable employment skills in 2019. He was a white House prison reform advisor. A graduate of Santa Clara University, he also has a law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Edward is a proud father of six children.
Coldwell Banker Premier Realty
Director of Business Development and Client Services
Originally from California, Allison Wax began her Real Estate career by supporting the needs of companies moving their most valuable asset, their employees, in and out of the Las Vegas Valley. As Director of Business Development and Client Services at Coldwell Banker Premier Realty, Allison builds valuable relationships with corporations, assisting them with different real estate needs to include general real estate, corporate moves and affinity programs. She is thrilled to be part of a growing, dynamic and ethical company that is a leader in the real estate industry
Fingerprinting Express
Owner
Monica Pappas, Owner of Fingerprinting Express, specializes in startups in underdeveloped industries and thrives being a disruptor in industries she grows. Monica franchised Fingerprinting Express and has four stores throughout the state of Nevada. Monica has dedicated her adult professional and personal life to protect children, seniors, the disabled, aged out foster care kids and homeless youth. Monica founded Community Lifters, a Grassroots Volunteer Group that encourages volunteerism and has thousands of volunteer hours. Monica is also on the Citizen Advisory Board for St Jude’s Ranch For Children.
Wells Fargo Bank
Structure Exhibits
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
Chris Takas serves as the Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Structure Exhibits and is a sponsor member of the Corporate Event Marketing Association. Chris provides oversight and direction to continue Structure’s rapid national growth while expanding our product portfolio to remain ahead of industry trends. Chris has worked in the Las Vegas community for over 15 years.
Promo Direct
President & CEO
Promo Direct was founded in 1991 by President & CEO, Dave Sarro, with the main goal of assisting organizations by improving brand visibility through promotional products and apparel. Dave is responsible for the vision of Promo Direct and the overall execution of company initiatives. The company has always strived to provide a premium shopping experience, accompanied by smart marketing solutions. Promo Direct has won numerous national awards over the years and is considered a leader within the promotional products industry.
Absolute Exhibits
CEO
Todd Koren is the CEO and founder of Absolute Exhibits headquartered in Orange County California. He led the company expansion to Las Vegas, where he now resides, Munich Germany, Orlando, and most recently to Bucharest, Romania. While in college at Chapman University, he owned and operated an import/export business called Global Provisions, sending food to the Samoas and receiving fresh products in return. Today, he uses his business to assist philanthropically from a Toy Drive for 9/11, to providing resources for Haiti, and many other projects. He advises CEOs of fast-growing companies through his leadership role with RJB Partners LLC.
Las Vegas HEALS
CEO
Born and raised in Las Vegas, Diego started in healthcare as a Chaplain in hospice. After moving into marketing, he worked to create Vegas Healthcare which currently has more than nine thousand members and was created to help expedite and improve patient care in the valley. Having taken the role as CEO of Las Vegas HEALS, he is positioned to bridge the gap between leadership and workers in healthcare in order to improve utilization and move healthcare forward in Southern Nevada. Las Vegas HEALS engages large healthcare providers in conversations to bring community solutions to healthcare problems.
Victory Selling
CEO & Founder
For more than twenty years, Steve Heroux has been committed to changing the way we look at sales. Heroux is the CEO & Founder of Victory Selling, and he’s a leading authority in providing cutting-edge strategies on selling in today's marketplace. Whether it's empowering you to become the best sales professional you can be, inspiring your sales team to maximize their full potential, or sharing his extremely powerful system of selling, he can transform your entire outlook on sales in less time than you think.
Resorts World Las Vegas
Executive Director of Talent Acquisition & Community Engagement
Lori Calderon is the Executive Director of Talent Acquisition & Community Engagement at Resorts World Las Vegas, where she oversees the property’s recruitment efforts. Additionally, Lori works to identify and facilitate relationships with community partners in support of the resort’s corporate social responsibility (CSR), volunteerism and philanthropic efforts. Lori has more than 27 years of valuable recruitment expertise in Las Vegas, having previously managed employment procedures for MGM Resorts International, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and more.
Winans Investments- Capital Management
President & Founder
Kenneth Grant Winans is a top-ranked investment manager, a renowned author of four award-winning books and a philanthropist for education. Over 35 years, he has conducted landmark investment research and designed innovative investment strategies. He has documented “track records” as a market strategist and a portfolio manager. Winans also writes a column for Forbes.com. He started Winans Investments in 1992 and has received the highest “5 Star” performance rating given by global research firm, Morningstar ® for its three blended strategies for 3, 5, and 10-year timeframes.
Alignment Healthcare
Director, Network Performance
Lucas D. Taylor is director of network performance for Alignment Healthcare, which is now offering award-winning health and prescription drug coverage to Medicare-eligible Clark County residents through Alignment Health Plan. In this role, Taylor is responsible for provider engagement, performance management, and market operations in Nevada. In his four years with Alignment, Taylor has worked in finance, utilization management, clinical operations, and business development. A Las Vegas resident, Taylor has an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and a degree in biochemistry from the University of California, San Diego.
Resecurity, Inc.
CEO
Gene Yoo is the CEO of Resecurity, Inc., a leading provider of cyber security solutions to protect enterprise ecosystem. This platform is built on data-driven risk intelligence providing the who, what, where and how to be protected against cyber-attacks. Yoo has over 30 years of experience in cybersecurity for some of the world’s largest brand names such as Warner Bros., Sony, Computer Science Corporation, Coca-Cola Enterprise, Capgemini, and Symantec. Yoo served in an advisory role to Phantom (acquired by Splunk), Protectwise (acquired by Verizon), Elastica (acquired by Blue Coat) and Vorstack (acquired by ServiceNow).
Cubicall LLC
Co-Founder and Principal
After working in open office plans for years, Nick Pucci, co-founder and principal of Cubicall, utilized his experience directing marketing campaigns for global brands and started a company that manufactures modular phone booths and meeting rooms for modern offices. After appearing on ABC’s Shark Tank and receiving offers from two sharks, Cubicall recently expanded its product portfolio to include medical isolation and exam pods that help address the COVID-19 response. Originally based out of Los Angeles, Cubicall and Pucci moved its operations to Las Vegas in early 2020.
SilverSummit Healthplan
Plan President, CEO
Eric Schmacker is the President & CEO of SilverSummit Healthplan, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation. He joined SilverSummit in 2019 and represents the plan in Business Development and Strategy, Operations, Medical Management, Provider Relations, Member Services, Network Management and Claims. Schmacker, a 21-year US Army veteran and Blackhawk pilot, has over 25 years of leadership experience in healthcare and hospital administration. His passion is guiding SilverSummit in “Transforming the health of the community, one person at a time.”
Brave & Beautiful Blood Cancer Foundation
Founder
Hanna Olivas is the founder of a local Las Vegas charity, the Brave & Beautiful Blood Cancer Foundation. Her journey started in 2017 when she was first diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. She was given a 5-year prognosis and was told her cancer is incurable. To continue treatment, Hanna was forced to seek help outside of Nevada. With the frustration of being outsourced, Hanna realized what she had to do to make a change for other Nevadans and along with this inspiration, founded the Brave & Beautiful Blood Cancer Foundation.
America First Credit Union
Business Development
With 15 Years of Financial and Sales/Marketing Experience and 10 years specifically in the Credit Union space, Gina Maceo joined America First Credit Union five years ago when she moved to Nevada. Hailing from New England where she earned her B.S in Business and Marketing from Worcester State University in Massachusetts, Maceo enjoys helping businesses and their employees gain access to hundreds of benefits offered by America First Credit Union. She is an exemplary Vegas Chamber Ambassador, a graduate of Leadership Advance, and a proud Customer Service Excellence Award recipient.
Friday Health Plans
Director of Sales
Eddie Burkhart is Director of Sales, Nevada for Friday Health Plans. Active in the health insurance industry for more than 27 years, he joined Friday Health Plans in mid-2020 in preparation for the company’s launch to Nevada. Burkhart represents Friday Health Plans throughout Nevada for its individual and family health plans, both on and off the healthcare marketplace, as well as Friday’s small group plans. Their focus is on entrepreneurs, gig workers, contractors, freelancers, service industry workers, early retirees and small business owners – people who make their own decisions about health insurance.”
In Color Studios
Founder
Ed Gregory founded IN COLOR STUDIOS in 2015 when he moved to Las Vegas from England. IN COLOR STUDIOS is in its 5th year of rapid growth delivering creative solutions to companies both in Vegas and around the globe. The company was founded to help put Vegas on the global map as a creative city, recently moving into their new 7,000sqft production studio. The company has produced video and photography for the Goo Goo Dolls, Blue Man Group and Wrangler Jeans. Gregory has a degree in contemporary theater and performed as a Blue Man.
Haven Road Interiors
Owner
Bree Rothman’s began her career in Interior Design when she took her first course in high school. Since then, she has designed events in Seattle, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. She has spent nearly 20 years working for 4 and 5-star, design-oriented properties, including gorgeous hotels. Ms. Rothman currently designs furniture for famous properties on the Las Vegas Strip. A graduate of the Interior Design Institute in San Francisco, and a member of the Design Society of America and Certified Interior Decorators International, she specializes in luxury Residential Interior Design and commercial projects.
Sikara Medspa
Co-Owner
A passion for excellence in patient care, safety and results, Aisha Ali is co-owner of Sikara Medspa, a state-of-the-art medspa located in Summerlin, Nevada. Sikara Medspa was created to help explore the possibilities of exquisite beauty and vitality while offering a leading range of best-in-class aesthetic technologies tailored to each customer’s needs by their team of medical experts. Ali graduated from Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Arts in business administration, then worked for The Global Private Client Division of Merrill Lynch in Pasadena, California.
Lexicon Bank
President
As Lexicon Bank president, Stacy Watkins is responsible for connecting banking and investment resources to companies, small businesses, and individuals in Southern Nevada. With almost three decades in the business, Stacy has end-to-end banking industry experience at some of Nevada’s leading financial institutions. Stacy obtained her dual bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of Phoenix, and a Business of Banking certificate from the Pacific Coast Banking School. In her free time, she is an active leader in the community, dedicated to furthering Las Vegas’ economic mobility and financial literacy.
pūrtec inc.
Founder & CEO
A serial entrepreneur with over a decade working in the tech industry, Ray Edwards is an American inventor, designer and the chairman of pūrtec inc. headquartered in Tivoli Village. He envisions a world where technology could mimic mother nature to activate healthier indoor environments. pūrnetIQ is the world’s first cybernetic purification technology. Prior to pūrtec, he served on the founding team of Derek Jeter’s The Players Tribune athlete-owned media platform where he was responsible for strategic finance, M&A strategy and business development. His passion is building pathways for other entrepreneurs with culture-impacting ideas.
The Beacon Center – Las Vegas
Owner & Founder
Becky Stonebarger is the Owner and Founder of The Beacon Center – Las Vegas, a Meeting and Life Event venue. Originally from the St. Louis area, she has made Las Vegas home. She is a retired Business Strategist and has operated several successful businesses prior to The Beacon Center. Her 30+ years of entrepreneurship and a dedication to excellent customer service has made her successful. She graduated from the College of Southern Nevada with a focus in Casino Management, is active with several non-profits and has a passion to help other small business owners succeed.
Medical Solutions, LLC
Chief Revenue Officer
With profound experience in sales management and marketing, Joe not only helped found Medical Solutions Ventures with Mubarak Shah, he constructed the customer acquisition and retention systems which it is built upon. Prior to his role as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), he lead the sales development team at Namely where he boosted overall company revenue from 47m to 100m thanks to his unique blend of traditional and technology focused sales strategies. Joe brings a specialized outlook on sales and revenue operations by approaching the medical industry with untraditional yet extremely successful sales methods.
BLVCK DIVMOND
President & CEO
Grant Michael Leingang is President and CEO for BLVCK DIVMOND in Las Vegas. He has been a digital entrepreneur since the age of 15 and holds a true passion for technology. BLVCK DIVMOND focuses on developing organizations, businesses, and foundations. Their work passion is simple and derived from a belief that BLVCK DIVMOND's company operations will be a different experience. Leingang has created assets for many high-end brands like CORE Hydration. He has been known to utilize software and deliver original entrepreneurial visions using creative cost-effective methods that result in a positive ROI.
Campbell House
CEO & Founder
Beth Campbell is an award-winning architect and visionary leader in the industry. With nearly 30 years of global design experience, she just launched her own company, Campbell House. The firm is a full-service interior design studio, focused on high-engagement design solutions for hospitality, entertainment, food and beverage, and corporate workplace. Most recently, Beth served as CEO of Wilson Associates, a top global interior design firm. Prior to Wilson, Beth was EVP and head of design for Westfield Corporation and spent 16 years at Gensler as a managing partner and global account director.
SkyOak Capital Inc.
Founder & CEO
Jennifer Davis is the Founder & CEO of SkyOak Capital Inc, a Registered Investment Advisor, and a Portfolio Manager to two Las Vegas based hedge funds. Jennifer was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and started her career as a wealth advisor in Silicon Valley in 1990. Jennifer is married to Derek Davis, her best friend and business partner. She has two boys, Jake and Max whom they adopted from Russia in 2003 at age 11 and 6. Jennifer loves dogs, golf, travel, & hiking.
Awareity
Founder
Rick Shaw, a Prevention Specialist, author, and trusted advisor to organizations and communities worldwide, founded Awareity in 2004 and First Preventers in 2019. Since 1999, Rick has been researching post-incident reports to identify the profile of thousands of failed prevention efforts exposing a profile of dangerous gaps, silos, and disconnects that conventional status quo practices have created. Using the unique research, Rick identified the 6 Stages of Preventing as well as the first of its kind First Preventers Program and Community-wide Prevention Platform tools to eliminate these dangerous gaps.
