Joanna Kim-Pham
Neonopolis
450 Fremont St. #167
Las Vegas, NV 89101
T / 702-207-0788
E / donttellmamapianobar@gmail.com
OPENING HOURS
Open 6 Days a Week
Sunday – Thursday, 8:00 pm – 2:30 am
Friday & Saturday, 8:00 pm – 3:30 am
Closed Mondays
Adam Kent
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
Joined at the luncheon on Thursday 23rd September 2021
Joined at the luncheon on Thursday 23rd September 2021
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I’m half Japanese and i wanted to better connect with the Las Vegas Asian community and professionals as well as develop new friendships. Hopefully with other Japanese speaking Vegas locals too!
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None yet in the Asian Chambers and looking forward to getting involved with the Asian Chambers leadership team. Currently volunteering with the Vegas Young Professionals, one of the Director consultants for BNI Southern Nevada, and founder of Business Empowered which runs free monthly webinars and speed networking for the professional community.
4. What is your current occupation?
Invictus Consulting: International Business coaching/consulting
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
Invictus Consulting is a coaching firm providing practical real world strategies for owners and their teams in a way that nurtures accountability to produce and accelerate results.
If you are…
- Tired of working 7 days a week
- Feeling stressed/overwhelmed with work
- Looking for ways to scale your business but struggling to see results
- Looking for organizational behavior and organizational culture training solutions for teams
- Looking for sales training and business strategy etc.
We’d love to offer LVACC business owners a complementary 90min business strategy session to provide you with more clarity, direction, and some effective actions you can take immediately! Reach out for a chat on 702-527-2186 or email info@invictuslv.com
6. What lead you to this career?
It’s all about making a difference, supporting, working with, and producing results with and for others. Been training for it for almost 20 years and in the industry for almost 10 years. Started in Australia, now located in Las Vegas and working with companies internationally and across America. It’s not a job to me, it’s my life.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
Had an awesome experience as a guest on CNBC’s The Profit with Marcus Lemonis. Invited to talk culture, communication, and team building for a few hours with the Zipkit team and Marcus in July 2021 for the season 8 finale. Full episode here: https://www.cnbc.com/live-tv/the-profit/full-episode/raise-the-roof/1953550403679
8. What is your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?
Growing up in Australia got me watching more Rugby than NFL etc. Since moving here and calling Vegas home, the easiest thing to do was to jump on the bandwagon and root for VGK and Raiders!
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Playing with my 2 dogs, going out for KBBQ/Sushi/Ramen/Udon, random adventures, concerts, comedy shows, and catching up with friends having a few bevies to unwind
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Telekinesis – i’d never have to wash a dish or tidy up ever again lol! How great would it be to enjoy a good feed, watch your favorite movie, or hang out with people you care about while those menial tasks are happening without much effort at all 🙂
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Ramen – Hashi Ramen or Ramen Show
Udon – Cafe Sanuki
KBBQ – Captain 6
Sushi – Sushiya
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Izakaya Go and the others mentioned above!
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Right now i’ve been watching The Good Place and Agents of Shield, or always enjoy a good comedy, Marvel, and Anime as well!
Angel Clemens
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
I am a new member of the LVACC on behalf of CSN (College of Southern Nevada).
I am a new member of the LVACC on behalf of CSN (College of Southern Nevada).
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I am a member of the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Committee at CSN with the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Office, formerly a Co-Chair and currently the Secretary. My goal is to support all the CSN AAPI student population and community at large to gain more representation and support them to excel academically, be job ready and network with other AAPI in the community, statewide and nationwide. I am a pacific islander with a Hawaiian culture and tradition. My parents are from Hawaii with my ancestors from the Philippines and I am proud to be of AAPI. I want to give back to the young and future generations. I am not sure what expectations there are but I sure would like to be of support for AAPI community businesses and professionals and share it with CSN AAPI student graduates with opportunities in their career pursuit. On behalf of CSN , make a difference for the AAPI.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
CSN AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Committee) CSN Women’s Alliance, CSN Latino Alliance, member of APALA Nevada Chapter, CSN One Book, One College
4. What is your current occupation?
Administrative Assistant III/Faculty E-Alert Administrator for CSN Centers for Academic Success
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I support the Director and Coordinator at CSN Centers for Academic Success, and all CSN departments with anything they need help with. As a Faculty E-Alert Administrator, I support faculty members with their students in need of help. I am a Notary Officer for CSN Henderson Campus and the community at large. If you have any questions relating to CSN services, Notary services, or committee information you can contact me by phone or email.
6. What lead you to this career?
My college education started at CSN in AA Deaf Studies, BA in Public Administration in Law Enforcement with a minor in Psychology, continuing on the a MA in Public Administration in Law Enforcement. My career goal is to serve the Las Vegas Valley and the AAPI Community at large.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
That I am Hard of Hearing. It is a personal thing about me, but I am not shy to share it. I am not that severe but sometimes I do miss some things being said so I require a repeat. Especially nowadays when everyone is wearing a mask, it can be challenging. 😊
8. What is your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?
Volleyball, I root for USA team in Olympics, I use to root loudly for my daughter’s team in High School. I miss that so much. I also watch NFL Dolphins, Packers, and the Raiders. I am a die-hard fan.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Walking and running my dog Apollo at the park, homework and reading emails to catch up for the week, shopping, and attending events that mean a lot to me such as the Hawaiian Festival, Asian Pacific Islander Festival, Chinese New Year Festival and Parade, anything that is happening during the weekend. Otherwise relaxing at home.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
It would be amazing to have the Chi Manipulation Superpower because human life have the needs to take care of their mind body and soul, they can use self-healing, superhuman strength and pain resistance. With Chi we can maintain serenity and positive energy.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Sea Salt on Bermuda and Silverado Ranch. It is a fantastic sushi restaurant.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
The Golden Pot/Pho Saigon 8.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Shogun, The Last Samarai, Memoir of a Geisha, Crazy Rich Asian, too many to name just one.
Pok S. Yang
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
4 months
4 months
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
Networking and collaboration events in future
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
Currently I am volunteering Korea Sport Council in Las Vegas and The Peaceful Unification Advisory Council
4. What is your current occupation?
President of OneTop Center World Taekwondo Kukkiwon. Teaching and tutoring students and Family
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
At OneTop Center we believe in teaching students the foundations of Taekwondo no matter the age of the student. We believe in competing at the highest levels possible for our students. If you believe that you want to be the best in Taekwondo, then you must learn from the best. We provide the best taekwondo instructions that you will find in all of Las Vegas and even the nation
6. What lead you to this career?
My father was Black belt in Taekwondo. I started training when I was 6 years old with my older brother and now my sister in law is Black belt, my wife, my two sons and daughter are Black belt. Now I am a member of USA TEAM. Ranked #1 in U.S
https://www.teamusa.org/usa-taekwondo/athletes/Pok-Yang
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
That I volunteered over 10 years for the Asian and Korean community, and I received LIFETIME VOLUNTEER ACHEIEVEMENT PRESIDENTAL AWARD.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?
These days I don’t have time to watch many sports. If I had to root for a team, I guess it would be my Worldwide ICHTHUS Taekwondo Team
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Competing, teaching or training Martial Arts. And or meet friends eat & drink.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Superman. Good hero and hansome haha
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Just about any K-BBQ Restaurant or Sushi restaurant.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
My leanings are towards Daebok Korean Chinese restaurant
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Mission impossible
Karen Smith
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
Just joined.
Just joined.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?|
I am currently the Co-Vice President of the Las Vegas AREAA Chapter (Asian Real Estate Association of America). I should be President come July 1, 2022. I’m/we are looking for ways to extend a helping hand while still maintaining our business goals.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
Co-Vice President of AREAA (Asian Real Estate Association of America)
President of FIABCI (French acronyms for the International Real Estate Federation) Mountain States Council.
Co-Founder of Real Estate Pros Without Borders, a closed Facebook Group open to local and global real estate professionals.
4. What is your current occupation?
Realtor®, Real Estate Consultant & Property Asset Manager
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
I am a Realtor® so someone would come to me to buy or sell a home or if they are a landlord looking for a property manager who not only obtains a tenant but also ensure the home is maintained for future resale.
6. What lead you to this career?
After 23 years of being a paralegal I was laid off and my aunt and cousin suggested this would be a good career for me.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I ran for Mayor in the city I use to live in, in Ohio.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?
Easy question! Football and the Cleveland Browns!!!
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Working
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
The ability to help everyone who needed slight helping hand. The reason “why” would be that hopefully others would catch on and see that when we help our neighbors we are actually helping ourselves and community and then become less dependent on a government agency to guide us on being better human beings.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Texas Roadhouse
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Ping Pang Pong
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
A Few Good Men
Kerry Ng
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
I just joined in July 2021.
I just joined in July 2021.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I recently relocated to Las Vegas and would like to network with professional business owners, and to promote the success of our community. I would like to be our members’ go-to person for all things real estate.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
I am not on a committee currently, but I am interested in volunteering with the Membership Committee.
4. What is your current occupation?
I am a Real Estate agent with Addicted Realty here in the Greater Las Vegas Area.
5. What do you do at Addicted Realty and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
We are a full-service real estate company that specializes in helping clients buy, sell, and rent. We also have a large property management division. We believe that everyone deserves to own their own home and work closely with Veterans and the minority community.
6. What lead you to this career?
My partner and I are currently going through the process of purchasing a home. I wanted to learn the process and then simplify it. It is a wonderful experience, and I am glad to help guide others through it.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I have a dual career in the aviation industry.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?
My favorite sport is baseball, and I am a die-hard Dodgers fan…yes, I’m from L.A.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Showing houses and building relationships with clients. If I’m not working, I love starting my day early by going on a hike and then lounging by the pool with some amazing local take out.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
My superpower is to fly. I hate driving in traffic!
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
I am still busy trying new places all over town, but there are many great places in Downtown and the Arts District. The food scene here in Las Vegas is amazing!
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Currently my partner and I are obsessed with Sidestreet Pho and Grill. They have delicious and authentic Vietnamese cuisine that reminds me of Westminster in L.A. You have to try their Bo Kho – Sidestreet Beef Stew.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
My all-time favorite TV show is Will and Grace. I can watch it and laugh for hours.
Success City Online
1.How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
2019
2019
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
It is a great opportunity for networking with other business owners. Also, the speakers are always interesting to listen to and meet.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None currently.
4. What is your current occupation?
We are a Digital Marketing Company specializing in Websites, Social Media and Google Ads (PPC).
5.What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
We help companies get found online. If a company has a product or service, they need the public to become aware of we elevate their profile to sell such products of services. We also assist with company brand building.
6. What let you to this career?
Being incredibly involved in the business community, about ten years ago we discovered a need for the services we currently provide. Once we got started the sky was the limit.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
Our two owners have a combined ninety years of business experience.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Las Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders and soon the Las Vegas Silver Knights. In a couple of years, we will add the Las Vegas A’s
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Attending our client’s events collecting exciting content for their Social Media.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
The speed of the Flash. That way we could be at all our client’s events any time.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
At one of many restaurants on Downtown Water Street in Henderson.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Satay Thai Bistro & Bar!
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Lost
Tisha Black
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
I have been a part of the Asian Chamber of Commerce for about five years.
I have been a part of the Asian Chamber of Commerce for about five years.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
As someone who works with a vast variety of businesses daily, any opportunity to get more involved in the Las Vegas business community is beneficial for not only myself and my firm, but also my clients.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None currently, but I would love to get more involved. I am president of the NDA and I serve on several cannabis Advisory Boards and as Compliance and Regulatory Director for several licensed marijuana establishments. I have also served on the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ (UNLV) Lied Institute of Real Estate Studies, and St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in Southern Nevada, and I have been an instructor with Greater Las Vegas Area Realtors and the Nevada Division of Real Estate.
4. What is your current occupation?
I am a managing partner at Black & Wadhams, a founding member and president of the Nevada Dispensary Association, a non-profit association which represents many licensed cannabis businesses in Nevada, and I serve as Vice Chair of the Nevada State Bar Cannabis Practice Section.
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
In my law practice, I focus primarily on real estate and business issues including cannabis businesses, regulatory compliance, corporate structuring, finance, real estate, business-licensing and entitlements, acquisitions, and complex commercial transactions.
6. What led you to this career?
The way a business must interact with the law to properly function has always been of interest to me. I enjoy assisting businesses navigate the complexities of the law, while also easing the process for my clients to achieve their long-term business goals, while also making a positive impact in the business landscape to create employment opportunities.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am a triathlete and marathon runner!
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
I love to watch any sport my children are involved in!
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
On the weekends I love to spend time with my three children, get outside, listen to audio books, garden, and travel!
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
I would choose to have super speed, so I could get more things done throughout the day.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Mastrioni’s
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Shinjuku Ramen which is owned by one of my clients.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Right now my favorite movie is Nobody, but I also love Tombstone.
Steven Peralta
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
I don’t know how long NDN has been a member but I’ve been involved for many years throughout my career dating back to 2013.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
It’s important to me to be a part of this community. Being Filipino-American I am so proud of my heritage and being able to network with others of Asian descent is critically important to understand the issues we face as a community.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None so far.
4. What is your current occupation?
Foundation President of Nevada Donor Network. I oversee the philanthropic and fundraising arm of our organization. I am a member of the Senior Leadership Team which oversees the strategic direction of our organization. Another role that I am proud to be a part of is Board Governance and Board Development. As Foundation President I am responsible for building and developing our Foundation Board. Our Foundation is currently raising $35 million to build a virtual transplant institute for Nevada and we are doing this with the dynamic board we have assembled.
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
My main duty and responsibility is to raise $35 million for our End the Wait campaign to build a virtual transplant institute. To ensure that every dollar we raise goes towards our Foundation’s efforts we are accomplishing our $35 million goal with our volunteer board. Our Foundation Board Chair is David Marlon who is the CEO of Cross Roads of Southern Nevada, a mental health and substance abuse addiction treatment centers. All the members of our Board have a personal connection to our mission in maximizing the gift of life through organ, eye and tissue donation and transplantation.
6. What let you to this career?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial and startup mindset. I’ve been involved in raising funds for private companies, educational healthcare institutions and several non-profit boards. I believe that raising funds and business development is the heartbeat of any organization.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I love Muay Thai kickboxing and training. My parents started me out when I was back in elementary. The discipline and mindset lives with me today. There are so many parallels and life lessons being involved with kickboxing – when you get knocked down you have to get right back up and be ready to fight!
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
VGK!!! I love the competitive spirit and the community impact VGK has done for our city. VGK was and still is the catalyst for transforming Las Vegas into the world’s best professional sports destination in the world. I am so proud to work with Kerry Bubolz, President of VGK and humbled that he sits on our Foundation Board.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
It’s all about my wife and kids. I have 4 loves in my life – My Faith, My Family, Our Country, and Nevada Donor Network!
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
My son loves Batman!!!!
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
My family and I love Dim Sum and all the Chinatown restaurants. Some of our top ones include Ping, Pang, Pong; Kung Fu Thai; Partage and Makino!
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
I am a huge fan of all Asian cuisines of course. Many people think that all Asian food is the same and it’s not. It’s incredibly diverse and authentic in so many ways. I believe that Asian food is the best food on earth! Picking just one is hard but I would have to go with Lotus of Siam! The Penang Duck Curry is outstanding!
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Right now my family and I are watching the Tokyo Olympics. I am amazed by what these athletes can do. I personally enjoy reading about everyone’s family history and stories. I am so inspired by these athletes and especially knowing how much adversity they have overcome. I am proud of Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka and Michael Phelps for taking a stand on mental health and creating a movement for everyone around the world to remove the stigma of talking about it.
Jill Guingcangco
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
David and I joined LVACC in June 2021, and we are very excited to get involved with the community and its members!
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
Because I’m a transplant here in Las Vegas, I joined to hopefully meet and work with small business owners and offer my and the firm’s services. I would also like to help the Filipino community here, which I hear is fairly substantial. I enjoyed volunteering for Filipino events and working with those from my community back home in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and hope I can offer my services to those Filipinos in need here in Las Vegas.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
I am a volunteer with the Disciplinary Board (Southern Nevada) and the Fee Dispute Arbitration Committee with the State Bar of Nevada, and am a pro bono attorney with the Children’s Attorneys Project and Pro Bono Appellate Program within the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.
4. What is your current occupation?
I am an associate attorney with Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP. My practice focuses primarily on civil litigation, specifically contract and employment law. I also assist with small business owners in the process to open and operate their business.
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
While my practice focuses on contract and employment law, I can still assist you with any legal or business questions you may have. Further, Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP, has a broad area of practice and the resources to address diverse legal issues. So whether you have questions regarding a personal injury matter or are involved in a contract dispute, we are here to help.
6. What led you to this career?
As cliché as it sounds, I wanted to help people. I don’t have the stomach to be a nurse, so I decided to take the LSAT and apply to law school. And although a lot of the cases I work on involve businesses and contracts, what I enjoy most is the client interaction aspect of my work.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I was a professional actress and singer prior to becoming a lawyer, and won a Gemini Award (Canadian version of the Emmy Award) for being part of the cast on a Canadian television show.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
I enjoy watching hockey and the Vegas Golden Knights, and always root for them unless they’re playing against the Winnipeg Jets, which is my home team.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
At the dog park with my husband and our puppy, grabbing brunch, or enjoying a lazy Sunday at home.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Body manipulation, so that I could stretch my legs and torso, and be at least 5’5”, so that I wouldn’t encounter any more “short people” problems.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana in Henderson, and North Italia in Summerlin.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Tengoku Sushi, Sakana Sushi, and Lotus of Siam.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
I love Downton Abbey, Friends, Sex and the City, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, and Game of Thrones, and have watched episodes of those shows again and again. My favorite movies are Shawshank Redemption, Forrest Gump, Shutter Island, The Hobbit trilogy, and Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Jing Zhao
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
On and off since 2010.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
Networking
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None. Open to suggestions!
4. What is your current occupation?
Intellectual Property Attorney.
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I help protect your intellectual property rights. If you have an invention you wish to patent, and idea you wish to copyright, a trademark or logo you wish to exclude others from using, if you want to sue or are being sued on intellectual property maters, or if you have questions regarding any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact me.
6. What let you to this career?
I was a commercial litigator for many years until I discovered my passion for helping clients protect their intellectual property rights.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I love graphs, tables, and flowcharts.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
I am a big Esports fan and root for all teams participating in Esports because they are the pioneers of this young and growing industry.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Spending time with my two daughters, either working on one of our art and craft projects, or putting together a sing and dance show.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
I would want the ability to fly into outer space and explore the universe.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Shang Artisan Noodle is a great restaurant where you can watch the chef’s craft their hand-made noodles!
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
See above.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
GOT Seasons 1-7 (if you know, you know)
DeVry University
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
Just recently joined.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I believe all educators should partner with businesses in our community, as this helps our graduates. I expect to extend the DeVry Brand.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None yet.
4. What is your current occupation?
Campus Dean and Community Partnerships
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?.
Education or Workforce Development
6. What let you to this career?
I have been in the Education field for more than 20 years
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I love to cook.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Basketball/Lakers, but I am fan of all sports.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Spending time with my family, cooking and listening to Jazz music.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Heal all the sick children in the world. A healthy childhood is deserved by all.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Oyster Bar, and Leticia’s
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
P F Chang
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Pale Rider, Clint Eastwood
Pei Yao-TeiSpa Beauty
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
2 years
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
In 2017 I moved to Las Vegas from Santa Monica, California. After a year and half of experimented with different organization. I found ACC was right fit for me, as entrepreneur with opportunity to meet other professional people from different places. My expectation is, starting 2021, I hope ACC will be opening door (no more zoom meeting) and brings more valuable events to the community.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None
4. What is your current occupation?
Entrepreneur and Industry Design
5. What do you do at TeiSpa Beauty and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I’m team/project leader with over 25 years of experience in national and international sourcing Communications skills with 3 languages in English, Mandarin and Arabic. We’re consultant multiple companies to unprecedent success to exceeding their goals. Expertise in production from apparel to packaging and GWP/PWP, etc.
6. What led you to this career?
I always have passion in beauty and fashion. Started as buyer for Saks Fifth Ave. Launched 1st maternity wear company “Double Attraction”; then sold the company & joined CMI, a sister company of LVMH Group. 2007 I stared TEI Spa Beauty My strengths & knowledge were grounded in diversity. My career Its kind of drives the boat per customers inquiries
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’m a very created cook. Most friends of mind thought I only know work.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
I like basketball and Lakers is my favorite team.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Hiking, reading and meditate.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Hmmm, I couldn’t pick a superpower because I’m a down-to-earth person. Work hard then create my own superpower. Doesn’t that makes sense?
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Neighbors’ Café.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Spice Indian Cuisine
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
The Kominsky’s Method on Netflix
National Cost Recovery Services
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
7 years?
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
To reach out to a broader business community. Most B2B consultants do not focus on the minority communities. I felt there could be a good fit for what we do.
3. What committees do you currently volunteer with?
Currently I am not on any committees. When we return to face-to-face meeting would like to possible work with Networking.
4. What is your current occupation?
President of National Cost Recovery Services, VOSB/SDVOB. We are expense reduction consultants.
5. What do you do at NCRS and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
We work with several Enterprise level vendors providing savings for businesses. One of these vendors provides expense benchmarking for our clients, using a $6T data lake. We are able to find where a business is being overcharged for services and negotiate reducing those expenses. So if a business wants to deduce their overall expenses by up to 25%, and add cashflow they can contact me. The main thing here is that all our services are done on a contingency basis. So, it is a win win for a business. No savings no fees.
6. What led you to this career?
I’ve had other business and the idea of finding money for business owners sounded like a really good thing. Although I have found that giving money away is not easy
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
That I volunteer at the Real Road Museum in Boulder City building a replica 1875 Rail car, along with crewing (fireman, engineer) an 1875 Baldwin Steam Locomotive.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
These days I don’t watch many sports. If I had to root for a team, I guess it would be the 49er’s
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Building a railroad car. And or smoking up some ribs.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
See the future. Knowing what is coming and being able to adjust.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Just about any BBQ Restaurant.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
My leanings are towards any Teppan. Although regularly had Dim Sum at what is now the Hong Kong Garden with friends for over 15 years.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
NCIS
Nevada Help Desk
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
1 Year
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
To network with like-minded individuals who are interested in growing their business and doing their part to make the world a better place. I expect to have businesses learn about the opportunities to support NevadaHelpDesk.org students in portfolio building by giving them work requests or quick turnaround job assignments (gigs) so they can complete and add to their portfolio which would ultimately convert to a longer term job upon completing their education. I also expect to have a platform to share our monthly digital video magazines so that the community can celebrate with us on an ongoing basis the national themes for each month which we highlight and focus on in the publication. For example, last month was Black History Month so our publication focused on Black History. This month is International Women month, so our digital video magazine will focus on sheroes around the world who have made a difference for the next generation.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
No with ACC, but NVDOE Parental Engagement Advisor
4. What is your current occupation?
Computer Programmer & Consultant
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I am the Executive Director of Nevada Help Desk. Businesses of all sizes come to us for digital marketing services, globally recognized training & certification credentials, audio-video production services, website development, consultation, digital video magazine productions.
6. What let you to this career?
I was exposed to technology at the age of 7, and have followed this pathway ever since, from robotics to hardware support to database programming to software design to mobile app & website development.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
That I am a Youth Pastor who have traveled to more than 30 countries and 35 states in America.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Basketball – Los Angeles Lakers
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Riding my electric bike
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Wonder Woman.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Capital Grille
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Chop Chop Wok
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Only watch CNN
Children's Discovery Museum
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum (DCM) has been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce for approximately a year in a half.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum mission is to foster a welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive environment where all are invited to engage in playful and educational experiences that ignite a lifelong love of learning. As a premier educational partner in the community, we will champion collaboration that inspired every child to become an innovative thinker through the joy and wonder of hands-on DISCOVERY.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
DCM’s diverse workforce volunteers for a lot of organizations in the community.
4. What is your current occupation?
At DCM there are a variety of occupations that help achieve all those smiles of kids and adults faces as they walk through the doors of our Museum, from education to marketing to development it takes a lot of teamwork to achieve the mission of the Museum daily.
5. What do you do at [Company] and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum is always excited to collaborate with non-profits, government agencies, corporations and small business to enhance and be better corporate citizens in our community. Whatever resources we can offer to assist in achieving our mission and making a difference in our community we welcome and look forward to all collaboration.
6. What let you to this career?
DCM would not be a pillar in our community if it were not for the many staff members, volunteers, and financial partners who are extremely passionate in having a children’s museum in Southern Nevada. It is the passion for children and education that leads to many wanting to work and be affiliated with the Museum.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
People may not realize that DCM celebrated its 30th Anniversary last year in Southern Nevada. There were many bumpy roads along the way but the fortitude and desire to have a children’s museum for the initial founders outweighed the hard work and convincing of others that Southern Nevada needed a cultural institution in the Valley.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
We just completed an update on our Las Vegas Raiders exhibit so we are a little biased when it comes to sports for football. And who cannot root for the Vegas Golden Knights as they have been so impactful to our community on so many levels.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Our Museum is open on the weekends so you will find our dedicated and passionate staff members striving to achieve our mission.
10. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
DCM is located downtown so any downtown eatery you cannot go wrong with selecting.
11. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
There are too many to select from as they are all so good.
12. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Anything on the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum YouTube channel.
Kay Cote - Atomy
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
3 years
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
Expect to expand our company visibility with other businesses in Southern Nevada.
Also expect to network with other businesses.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
Korean American Women’s Association
4. What is your current occupation?
Atomy Redrock Center Director
5. What do you do at Atomy and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
Provide absolute quality health care, Skincare including a variety of daily necessary products utilizing Online Shopping Mall globally.
6. What let you to this career?
I was enticed by being able to help people with Atomy Masstige products and generated residual income.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I never work in sales until I was in my 50s and I find it to be a very challenging profession.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Hockey and Golden Knights
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Catching up the works and church
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
I’d love to be able to read people’s minds as that will be good for business.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Redrock casino Noodle Bar
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Lee’s BBQ
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
N/A
Rachel Autry -The addHR Company
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
2 years
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I wanted to connect with other business leaders while finding ways to impact our local community. I anticipated strong engagement but was really excited to see how many events, luncheons, ribbon cuttings, and workshops they made available to participate in. It really allowed me to feel like I was part of a much bigger and active community.
Most of my business as an executive recruiter and corporate HR has been on a national scale. This provided me the opportunity to learn more about Las Vegas and its growth potential, how federal and state legislation impacts my and other small businesses, to learn about our own local Asian community and the best… to connect with others.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
I am part of the Community Affairs committee.
4. What is your current occupation?
Entrepreneur, Recruiter and HR Consultant
5. What do you do at The addHR Company and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I am owner of The addHR Company. I manage recruiters and HR consultants as we provide compliance, temp staffing, direct hires, and employee management for small businesses in Las Vegas.
It’s hard to keep up with legislative updates and the impact to small businesses. We are here to help navigate through all things related to their employees.
6. What let you to this career?
With over 15 years of experience in corporate talent acquisition, HR systems, and agency recruiting, the transition to a more end-to-end solution was a natural segue for me. I love working with people and in helping them become successful. I’m a big believer in “Connecting mission to people and people to opportunities… one business at a time.”
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am a proud member of the Gomez Family Singers! My Filipino immigrant parents had a lifelong dream of their children becoming celebrities. It was close! My 2 brothers are professional opera singers to this day. I still give voice lessons and occasionally music direct, but do not karaoke.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
I’m not much of a sports fan but do occasionally watch football with the family who are really into the Colts. My husband was born and raised in Indianapolis and we hardly ever miss a game. I’ve also learned to love the Las Vegas Raiders… of course!
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Hanging out with the family or working. As the weather starts getting warmer, I can also be found doing a walk or hike through one of our great trails, up in Mount Charleston or in Zion National Park.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Good question. My superpower would be as a time traveling peacemaker. I could go back through time and learn from earlier generations struggles. I could share that with the next generations so they could lead more impactful and fulfilling lives… live to their fullest potential without carrying the burdens of those before them or caused because of them.
Some people suffer more than others, whether due to genetics or circumstances. I believe we all have a superpower and opportunity to take care of some of that simply by living the virtues we all would love to see in the world and in others.
Be nice. Make good choices that do no harm. Yes, that’s sounds very idealistic, but doesn’t that sounds wonderful?
Either a time traveling peacemaker or a person who could eat anything they wanted and never gain weight.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Too many favorites and it usually involves sushi.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Sushi Hiro, Archi’s, Raku, Monta. Can’t pick one.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Schitt’s Creek (recent) or The Professional (old).
William Wong - Junk Monkeyz
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
1.5 Months
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
I joined the Asian Chamber to network and meet with other business owners to help expand my business.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None at this time, will be soon.
4. What is your current occupation?
Small business owner
5. What do you do at Junk Monkeyz and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
At Junk Monkeyz, LLC we provide Commercial & Residential Junk Removal & hauling Services.
6. What let you to this career?
During Covid-19 I needed to expand on career options during all the shutdowns to provide for my family.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am Asian
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
College Sports, Oregon Ducks!
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Spending time with my family & Working
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
I would love to be a Time Traveler. I would love to visit my ancestors & see other cultures from all around the world.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Raising Canes
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
New Asian BBQ
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
The Goonies
Maria Orbiztondo - Humana
Dear Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce,
Greetings! As one of the Humana representatives for the LVACC, I would like to introduce myself and participate in your Member Spotlight.
I am a Harvard-educated physician, Filipino-Chinese by ancestry, who stepped away from medicine and now works as a Humana sales representative. I’m passionate about helping people and bringing excellent healthcare to our Medicare population.
Attached are my flyer, business card, company logo. Please reach out with any questions!
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
1 year
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
To promote and build relationships within the Asian Community for Business, Well-Being, and Solidarity. My expectations are to support and educate members of the Asian Business Community and the AAPI, as well as be a helpful resource.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
N/A
4. What is your current occupation?
Humana Sales Representative
5. What do you do at Humana and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I’m a Sales Representative at Humana. I do member education on healthcare, Medicare plans, and community outreach.
6. What let you to this career?
I seek to be a bridge for the various cultural communities in Las Vegas. Health insurance is just as critical of a component as direct patient care; Humana seeks to practice “Human Kindness,” and I believe that is key to a happy life.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I was a scientific researcher at the Russian Academy of Science, and I attended college at Harvard University.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Basketball, LA Lakers
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Being outdoors with my husband and dogs
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
The ability to know the future. Foresight is just as powerful as hindsight.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Bouchon
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Mian
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Sound of Music
Damon Hodge - Las Vegas Valley Water
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
SNWA/LVVWD is a longtime member. I joined in 2019.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
Joining the Asian Chamber of Commerce is a no-brainer — it is the premiere organization in town for connecting with the Asian business community as well as key Asian decision-makers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
The expectations are to being able to meet and engage with the leaders of the Asian community in Clark County and work collaboratively on projects that provide a mutual benefit to the Asian Chamber, its members and the SNWA and LVVWD.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
I am not currently volunteering for a committee.
4. What is your current occupation?
Public Information Coordinator for the SNWA/LVVWD.
5. What do you do at SNWA/LVVWD and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I work in the Public Information Division. You would contact me for information on how to save money while conserving water. You might also contact me to learn about procurement opportunities on SNWA and LVVWD contracts.
6. What let you to this career?
I transitioned from a career in journalism (asking the questions) to a career in public information (answering the questions). It’s a transition that many former reporters make.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am fan of old-school Marvel and DC Comic books.
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
National Football League. I am a long-suffering fan of the Cincinnati Bengals.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Cleaning the house. Shuffling kids to their activities. Family outings. Date night with my spouse. Walking trails and tracks around town.
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Invulnerability.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Pin Kaow.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Tie: Lotus of Siam and Nittaya’s Secret Kitchen.
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
“Coming to America”
Joanna Kim - Pham from Don't tell mama Piano Bar
1. How long have you been a member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce?
2 years in membership Followed for 4 years.
2. Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
As a small business owner, I’d like to be in a organization that unite/ Support all the small businesses. Get to know each other’s business and share concerns and problems to find a solutions to be successful.
3. What committee do you currently volunteer with?
None.
4. What is your current occupation?
Bar owner. Design freelancer
5. What do you do at Don’t Tell Mama Piano Bar and what circumstances would I come to
you for something?
Supervise staff
6. What let you to this career?
My husband has been in piano bar business for over 25 years. He started in NYC . We moved our location to Las Vegas in 2009.
7. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
Conservative, Old fashioned, Dog lover
8. What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for?
Love sports but not a fan for particular sport.
9. What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Working
10. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? Why?
Healing power. I recently lost one of my dog. She was healthy. Just one day she refused to eat so very next day we checked in for lost appetite but she died low blood cell. I was devastated. She never showed any signs of illness. I was holding her hand at the hospital felt useless.
11. What is your favorite place to eat around here?
Most vietnamese, chinese , thai and korean food.
12. What is your favorite Asian Restaurant in Las Vegas?
Lee’s Barbecue, Black Bear Diner
13. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
CSI
Ryan McMahon from Elite Custom Adventures
Why did you join the Asian Chamber of Commerce? Any expectations?
First and foremost, I wanted to join the Asian Chamber of Commerce because outdoor industries have traditionally NOT focused on minority communities as their customers, and frankly that’s garbage. Elite Custom Adventures (ECA) is committed to getting Everyone into the outdoors, as demonstrated by our Mission, Vision, and Values and the annual ECA Scholarship award.
Further, as a company that provides private, custom national park experiences paired with professional photography, I believe that we tick many of the boxes that international travelers seek. When you are traveling halfway around the world, you want to make the absolute most of your time and have the highest quality images to document what often turns out to be an experience of a lifetime. With ECA, creating “experiences of a lifetime “is what we do.
What do you do at Elite Custom Adventures (ECA) and what circumstances would I come to you for something?
ECA provides private, custom, fully inclusive national park adventures paired with professional photography. We work with each group to create, prepare for, experience, and memorialize their personal dream outdoor adventures. Contact ECA if you’re considering an outdoor adventure and want to turn it into an experience that you and your loved ones remember for a lifetime.”
Dave Austin
The Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce ,in its continuing support for our brave veterans, is honored to recognize NATIONAL COST RECOVERY SERVICES (NCRS). NCRS is owned and operated by Dave Austin, a U.S. Marine Vietnam veteran with 32 years of service. Dave Austin’s company is a revenue enhancement and expense reduction consultancy business.
The company has a number of different services from improved healthcare benefits and at a lower cost, to small parcel shipping, that improve the bottom line of any business. NCRS also audits specific expenses such as workers-comp, or merchant fees. All auditing is done on a contingent basis, if NCRS does not find a savings, there are no fees. NATIONAL COST RECOVERY SERVICES also has 4 tax reduction programs to further help businesses.
Veterans are an important part of America’s core as through their sacrifices, they keep us safe and secure. Every American should be proud of and support our veterans and the Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce is honored to do its part.
IF YOU ARE A VETERAN OWNED/OPERATED BUSINESS, PLEASE LET US KNOW SO THAT WE MAY RECOGNIZE YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS. Contact us at ralph.mcnamara.acc@gmail.com