“My first job was traveling around the intermountain west refinishing gym floors at high schools, junior high schools and churches. I probably lost a few brain cells breathing the toxic fumes but it gave me the desire to get my college degree as fast as possible. Hopefully the education made up for the lost brain cells.” Richard Bird • Regional Manager, Marcus & … [Read more...] about What was your very first job?
The Last Word
Will Nevada’s economy be better this time next year?
“Nevada’s economy will mirror that of the overall U.S. economy, in 2013. Our country is facing a challenging financial outlook with large (and growing) federal & state budget deficits, looming tax increases, and likely spending cuts on numerous domestic programs.” Brian D. Lawenda, M.D. • Clinical Director and Radiation Oncologist, 21st Century Oncology “Our community … [Read more...] about Will Nevada’s economy be better this time next year?
What is the greatest lesson you learned from your parents?
“Make time to spend with friends and family, relax, and take well-deserved vacations. You’re hard work to become successful in your career is ultimately meaningless if you fail to also enjoy life and the people who surround you.” Sarah E. Harmon, Esq. • Partner, Bailey Kennedy “My father taught me to never ever be afraid of work. It does not matter what you do, but do it … [Read more...] about What is the greatest lesson you learned from your parents?
What does the “American Dream” mean to you?
“To me, and to millions of Americans over the years, the American Dream often involves owning your own home. With our economy and housing market in Nevada showing signs of recovery, I look forward to seeing the home ownership rate in our state going back up in the coming years.” Blane Johnson • President, Nevada Association of REALTORS. “For me, the dream is to do work I … [Read more...] about What does the “American Dream” mean to you?
What five words would you use to describe the best account executive/salesperson?
“The best sales person I have had the privilege of working with started with a high level of Integrity. Treating sales as a Profession and studying their craft was very apparent. Preparedness means not wasting a potential client’s time or their own by not doing the homework before the call. Hard Working and Aggressive complete the portrait of the best sales person I’ve … [Read more...] about What five words would you use to describe the best account executive/salesperson?
What U.S. President do you most respect?
“Abraham Lincoln because of his perserverance.” Kyle Nagy •Current President, Southern Nevada NAIOP, Director, Commercial Capital Advisors “Easily, it’s George Washington. He had the power to appoint himself as a dictator after the American Revolution. Instead, he became the only man in history who could demand absolute power and maintain the humility to abdicate it for … [Read more...] about What U.S. President do you most respect?
What is a leader’s greatest attribute?
“A leader’s greatest attribute is the ability to forward think. Great leaders anticipate obstacles or challenges that may affect a team and can adjust quickly.” Carol Mayorga • District Manager, Wells Fargo Bank– The Horizons District “I don’t think there is a single greatest attribute. Vision, the ability to motivate and inspire people, providing clear direction and the … [Read more...] about What is a leader’s greatest attribute?
What keeps you up at night?
“My children. Not so much in the traditional sense of making sure they’re safe and sound, but in the sense of their well being if something happened to my wife and I. We’re currently in the process of drafting our estate documents; designating guardians for our young children is of upmost importance at this stage.” Justin Thomas, CFP® • Shareholder/Wealth Advisor, TCI Wealth … [Read more...] about What keeps you up at night?
What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
“I learned that the lack of loyalty I experienced with previous business dealings with other companies has made me take aggressive steps to make loyalty a core value in my company. This has been extremely rewarding and the main reason why we have been in business for over 50 years.” Jewell Creigh • President / CEO, Ute Construction Inc. “Life changes fast. If not managed … [Read more...] about What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
What’s the biggest change you saw in 2011 as it relates to business?
“The biggest change was the emergence of the short-term foreclosure investor, who buys homes in homeowner associations at foreclosure sales. Short-term foreclosure investors are only interested in a quick resale at a profit, not the long-term health of the homeowners association, and oppose any regulation or fee imposed by an association.” Paul Terry • President of Community … [Read more...] about What’s the biggest change you saw in 2011 as it relates to business?
What are your hopes for the New Year?
“My hope for the New Year is that the thousands of families in this community with mothers and fathers that are willing and able to work find jobs. I also hope that our state legislators and governor strive to find common ground working for the future of this great state and put aside their personal agendas.” Bob Anderson • Partner, Holland & Hart “An improving … [Read more...] about What are your hopes for the New Year?
What do you think is the greatest invention of our time?
“The iPhone – From an organizational standpoint (keeping one organized), ease of use and ability to have a record of your life, pictures, etc., it is by far the best invention so far. Steve Jobs (God bless his soul) and his team have done an incredible job. Our three year old was able to navigate thru the phone and get what she wanted with ease.” Jeffrey Lowden, MBA • … [Read more...] about What do you think is the greatest invention of our time?
What do you love most about Nevada?
“Nevada’s tremendous potential for growth. Defining the opportunities to rebound from the recession, and developing a specific course of action are the keys to realizing that potential. Nevada needs to move beyond old economic development paradigms and embrace a new economic diversification structure with a commitment to innovation and leadership.” Ross Miller • Nevada … [Read more...] about What do you love most about Nevada?
What Nevada industry has the greatest potential to contribute to a turnaround?
“No single industry has the greatest potential as each industry -- directly or indirectly-- is reliant on others. Unemployment is extremely high in this state. Once we are able to put people back to work, regardless of industry, our economy will start to grow and all industries will benefit. “ David Stone • President, Nevada Association Services, Inc. “Gaming! The opening … [Read more...] about What Nevada industry has the greatest potential to contribute to a turnaround?
What notable Nevada figure do you most admire and why?
“Governor Kenny Guinn. As many successes as he had throughout his life – personal and professional - he never lost track of where he had come from; he treated everyone with respect. In a time when it is difficult to find true mentors and leaders, Kenny was the definition of class and sincerity.” Chris Ferrari • President, Ferrari Public Affairs George Maloof: “I’ve worked … [Read more...] about What notable Nevada figure do you most admire and why?