This week's article written
by Maria Marinch

THE LATIN CHAMBER of Commerce monthly luncheons have always been a place to network and have a good time. Business relationships, friendships and community spirit are fostered every month at these events. The luncheons are also well known as a platform for public leaders and corporate organizations to present important information to our ever-growing community.

The importance of chamber events as a venue for reaching out to Hispanics was clearly evident during the second quarter of 2006, when a series of notable speakers graced the podium at our luncheons.

The LCC's September monthly luncheon provided one of the few opportunities where the public could hear from both Nevada gubernatorial candidates. Former U.S. Congressman and now Governor, Jim Gibbons, as well as State Senator Dina Titus, spoke to the chamber membership about important issues facing our state.

During October's luncheon members heard from candidates for lieutenant governor, outgoing Nevada Treasurer Brian Krolicki and Henderson developer Bob Unger. Krolicki has since been elected to the office.

The business community was also featured when Perini Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Richard Rizzo, accepted the chamber's invitation to speak at the Nov. 17 luncheon. Rizzo spoke about Project City Center, the $7 billion project currently under construction on the Las Vegas Strip.

Another distinguished keynote speaker during the last quarter of 2006 was Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, then a candidate for the state office.

For a list of upcoming chamber events, including our monthly luncheons, please
visit our Web site at www.lvlcc.com/upcoming_events.html.