South Point owner Michael Gaughan: Work ethic, honesty, integrity are essential for successful career

By Rebecca Clifford-Cruz

Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014 | 2 a.m.

Editor’s Note: With the close of 2014, here is the next in our series of candid Q&As with 14 prominent Nevada personalities, who were asked to answer 14 questions in 14 or fewer words.

Michael Gaughan, owner, South Point

What modern-day invention can you not live without?

My Kindle.

If you could meet anyone — living or dead — who would it be and what’s the first question you would ask them?

Thomas Jefferson: What he thinks of his Constitution today?

Name your favorite television show and why?

"Gunsmoke," best television Western.

What moral values are essential for a successful career?

Work ethic, honesty and integrity.

How do you define happiness?

Contentment, happy with one’s life.

How do you defuse stress or tension?

Reading and sleeping or if things get really bad … leave town.

What is your favorite pickup line?

I forget.

Any guilty pleasure?

Taking more time off work.

What is your most embarrassing public moment?

I try not to remember those.

What words best describe the city you live in?

Home.

What is the most difficult task you’ve accomplished this year?

The (National Finals Rodeo) extension for 10 more years.

What is the most important topic for the Nevada Legislature to address during the 2015 session?

Taxes.

Any regrets this past year?

None.

What is your top priority moving into 2015?

To have a better year than 2014.