BRIEFS

"Subcontractors’ Remodeling Secrets Revealed" is the title of November’s First Friday presentation at the Las Vegas Design Center.

Four of the valley’s premier specialty subcontractors will talk about their work, specific remodeling projects and offer hard-earned "secret" tricks of the trade. The seminar is scheduled for 10 a.m. Nov. 6 in C184 in the downtown facility that is part of World Market Center Las Vegas.

Participants are: Avalante, a painting contractor that will discuss topics related to wood finishes, paint, Venetian plaster and faux work; Pinnacle Architectural Millwork, which will discuss issues related to services you may not be aware that your subcontractor can perform for you in both commercial and residential projects; Harney Hardwood Inc., which will discuss refinishing wood floors and how to modernize the look of an older floor along with an emphasis on understanding wood as a commodity and the value of using a wood species that is readily available; and Castle Cabinets, which will focus on the process of transforming older cabinets into a new or remodeled design using a variety of techniques, depending on the budget and overall look that the designer is trying to achieve.

Michele Stuhmer of Sydney Designs will serve as moderator. Stuhmer is a local designer with comprehensive remodeling experience. She will lead a discussion focused on the front end of the designer’s relationship with a client as it relates to subcontractors, and how full disclosure is a key step in a successful project.

The event is open to industry professionals and their guests.

Reservations are requested and can be made by calling 599-3093 or e-mailing info@lvdesigncenter.com.

 

Vassallo earns entrepreneur of year award from chamber

Joseph Vassallo, president of Paragon Pools in Las Vegas, was named entrepreneur of the year by the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce during its 2009 Small Business Excellence Awards recently.

"Receiving this highly sought-after award from an organization so extremely regarded as the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce validates the impact a small independent pool company can have on its community," Vassallo said.

The Biz E awards recognize the accomplishments of small businesses and were presented during a luncheon ceremony. Also recognized were the small business of the year, green business of the year, innovative business of the year and nonprofit of the year.

"The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the Biz E awards to these exceptional organizations. These businesses epitomize Southern Nevada’s entrepreneurial spirit," said Kara Kelley, president and chief executive officer of the chamber.

Qualified nominees were narrowed down to three finalists in each of the five categories. Finalists were then required to submit a detailed questionnaire for the Chamber Business Council and Biz E committee members to review and judge.

To qualify for the entrepreneur of the year award, finalists had to be the founder, owner, CEO or president of a Las Vegas-based, privately held company; demonstrate leadership through effective business and marketing strategies; embrace new technology and innovation to improve and grow the business; actively participate in the community; be in business for a minimum of three years; employ 50 or fewer full-time local workers; and be a member of Chamber of Commerce.