Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013 | 2:03 a.m.
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Clyde Dinkins
Las Vegas 2013. Something is in the air! All one has to do is breathe in the abundant aroma of hope, vibrancy and opportunity.
The Sun editorial Sunday, “Seeing opportunity,” will go down in Nevada history as the prescient, progressive, clarion call to all Nevadans (I’ve cut it out and framed it). The editorial’s main theme, “Nevada has a chance to change — and improve — for the future” will prove prophetic. Something is in the air!
The Sun rightly lauds last week’s Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce annual kickoff event, which asked the poignant question, “What next?” for Las Vegas — Nevada — and we the people. This gathering of Southern Nevada businesses was one of enthusiastic vitality. Las Vegas economic analyst Jeremy Aguero opened the session with an overview of our business climate, concluding, “Opportunity is everywhere.” There’s something in the air!
The closing speaker, Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh, received a rousing, standing ovation from the attendees. He spoke of a new business philosophy — not of just working hard but enjoying it and becoming a wealthy success while simultaneously enhancing the quality of life of Las Vegas and Nevada. Hsieh’s goal is to bring culture, art and business ventures to our progressing downtown. He stressed devoting market budgets to customer service to be successful. He encourages the “collisions” of residents, visitors and tourists to get to know one another — sharing experiences, ideas and a philosophy of happiness. Something is in the air!
Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kristin McMillan urged Southern Nevada businesses and people to work together to improve our economy. She said, “Step up and show leadership. ... Think bigger (and) more boldly than we ever have before.” I agree.
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Rossi Ralenkotter spoke of the Convention Center’s development plans over the next 20 years, including adding a transportation facility.
And Tom Skancke, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Regional Economic Development Council, emphasized Las Vegas’ role in the global economy and the importance of a superior transportation infrastructure for future growth, success and prosperity.
There’s something in the air! The Sun editorial and Chamber of Commerce event are the proof. Our future is bright; all roads lead to it — Rome, Las Vegas, the Crystal City — our emerging downtown renaissance. And that something in the air is “The Sweet Smell of Success!”
Clyde Dinkins is a freelance writer who lives in Las Vegas.
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