A memorable evening was hosted by HARRAH's Entertainment at PARIS HOTEL's Champagne Ballroom for the 25th Annual Awards Black-Tie Gala. for the LATIN CHAMBER of COMMERCE.

Nearly 40 years ago, groups such as the Nevada Spanish-Speaking Coaliton and the Nevada Association of Latin Americans were fighting to help our State's Latino residents achieve basic economic and social equality at a time when allegations of  discrimination were discouragingly common.  Though the Hispanic Community's overall economic fortunes have improved since that era, the Las Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce recognizes the importance of building on these hard-won gains by further expanding employment opportunities for individuals of Latino origin. 

This gala honored local leaders for their outstanding achievements, dedication and  commitment to the Hipanic community in Southern Nevada. A reception and silent auction before dinner was served gave guests an opportunity to mingle with friends. Dinner was then served. President of the Latin Chamber of Commerce Robert Gomez and Otto Merrida introduced and congratulated each honoree as they came onstage for their Awards Presentation. The Hispanic of the Year award went to Randy A. Garcia who has been a resident of Las Vegas since 1957. He is Nevada's first Certified Investment Management Analyst and has been recognized by MONEY MAGAZINE as one of the nation's best investment consultants.

The honorees were: BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURS, Maria and Raul Gil; PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, Maria Marinch; MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, Sue Brooks; EDUCATION, Dr. Carlos Campo; COMMUNITY SERVICE, Donald L. "Pat" Shalmy; PUBLIC SERVICE, Assemblyman Ruben Kihuen; TOURISM, Gonzalo De Varona, ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT, Carlos Elorza and the PRESIDENT'S AWARD FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT, Jose' A. Elique. 

Among the guests enjoying the gala were:Luis F. Valera, UNLV Director of Government Relations, Thom Pruitt, Dr.Luis A Martinez, Beatriz and Gonzlo De Varona, Jose Rosa, Viviana Cestero, Tony and Coco Salas, Carman Mahan, Judge Natalie Tyrrell and Leo Tyrrell, Judge Elisabeth Halverson, Otelio Principe d'Elea, Sonia Rivelli, Adroama Escpbar-Cjamps. Esq., Ana Wood, Judge Maria and Letty Rocha and Michael and Cathy Villani.    

After the Awards Program and dinner were over, dancing continued as the Carlos Elorza Band played great music. The dance floor was filled and guests danced non-stop until it was time to go after enjoying a wonderful and inspiring evening.