Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce keeps key issues in focus

The economic downturn has forced all of us in the business community to sharpen our business operations and redouble our efforts to exceed our customers' expectations. Today, we are beginning to see the first hints of an economic recovery in some sectors. While it's far too soon to declare an end to the recession, now is an opportune time to refocus on some of the long-term challenges that face our businesses and our region.

The Reno Sparks Chamber of Commerce, northern Nevada's largest business organization, is spearheading an effort to draw public and business-leader attention to many of the important issues that face our Northern Nevada economy. As chair of the Reno Sparks Chamber's Business Support Council, my role is to help plan events that address the needs of the chamber's nearly 1,500 members and our community. The chamber's major events for 2009 will help business and community leaders dial in to major regional issues, glean critical information, exchange perspectives, and help to develop effective responses to community challenges.

The chamber's lineup of events includes the following:

Meeting Nevada's Energy Future: Adequate supplies of affordable energy are critical to the Nevada economy. On May 15, Michael Yackira, president and chief executive officer of NV Energy, will discuss "Meeting Nevada's Energy Future." This breakfast event at The Atlantis Resort and Casino in Reno will allow you to hear Mr. Yackira's vision for meeting our energy needs, including the growing role of renewable energy, and to ask questions. This event, which begins with networking at 7 a.m. and program at 7:30 a.m., is open to both chamber members and non-members. Tickets are on sale now at 775-337-3030 or at www.renosparkschamber.org.

Economic Development and Tourism Promotion: The Reno Sparks Chamber holds frequent, members-only public policy forums that highlight important public policy issues affecting business. In May, Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki will address economic development and tourism promotion, as well as other public policy issues.

The date for this forum will be announced shortly. Additional members-only public policy forums will be held throughout the year.

Celebrating Reno: One of the major roles of any Chamber of Commerce is to celebrate all that is positive about the communities it represents. Last September, more than 250 people gathered at John Ascuaga's Nugget for a "Celebrate Sparks" program that featured Mayor Geno Martini and Councilman Ron Smith. On June 25, the Reno Sparks Chamber will hold a similar luncheon at the Eldorado featuring Mayor Bob Cashell. Exhibitors and attendees will hear an update from the mayor on the city's opportunities, challenges, and search for a new city manager. Registration opens at 11 a.m., with program to begin at 11:45. This Reno Renaissance Luncheon, which is open to chamber members and non-members, promises to be extremely informative and enjoyable. To exhibit at, or sponsor, this event, call Nancy Pulliam at 775-337-3057.

Evaluating K-12 Education Challenges and Opportunities: The chamber will host a major event in September to examine K-12 education issues, and to provide an opportunity for the school district to tackle, head on, some of the public perceptions concerning the district. The date and venue will be announced in the coming weeks. Those interested in sponsoring the event can call Nancy Pulliam at 337-3057.

Leadership Reno Sparks 25th Anniversary Celebration: Many of our community's business and civic leaders are graduates of Leadership Reno Sparks, the area's premier civic leadership development program. The 25th Anniversary Reception and Celebration will be held on Sept. 24 at 5 p.m. at a venue to be announced. It is open to Leadership Reno Sparks graduates, chamber members and non-members.

Healthcare Reform and What it Means to You: The Reno Sparks Chamber will hold its Second Annual Healthcare Summit on Oct. 8 at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. President Obama and Congress have plans for major changes in the way health care is delivered and financed. Additionally, the state of Nevada likely will have adopted health-care policy changes. It is vitally important for business and civic leaders to understand these complex but critically important issues, since they affect our families, our businesses and our community.

International Business: An increasing number of Nevada businesses are taking advantage of global commerce and the Internet to expand their business internationally. In some cases, that means doing business in nearby neighbors such as Canada. In other cases, it may mean locales as far away as the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China). The chamber plans an event in November that highlights international business opportunities and success stories.

Thanking Your Employees: In December, the Reno Sparks Chamber will host its annual luncheon at which businesses can thank their employees by treating them to a delicious holiday luncheon featuring entertainment and raffle prizes. The annual event is a perfect way to cap off the year, and thank colleagues for their dedication throughout the year.

Business leaders have too great a stake in the major regional and local issues of our day to sit on the sidelines. It is critically important that you, or others from your business, dial in to these key issues, and be part of the solution. Additional events, including the annual golf tournament, Business Success Seminars, ribbon cuttings and business happy hours, are held throughout the year. You can join the Reno Sparks Chamber, or register for upcoming events, by calling 775-337-3030, or by visiting www.renosparkschamber.org. We look forward to welcoming you!

Lisa Ruggerio, the chair of the Reno Sparks Chamber of Commerce Business Support Council, is the President of LR2 Consulting.