Dec. 14, 2005
Copyright � Las Vegas Review-Journal

Officials deem China as LV's tourism lode
Aggressive work to draw nation's travelers seen to pay off for Nevada
By JENNIFER ROBISON
REVIEW-JOURNAL

[[[Xiqin Zhang of the China National Tourism Administration said Tuesday that more Chinese citizens are traveling the world.
Photo by John Locher.]]]

Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt referred to an icon of Nevada's mining history Tuesday to point to the future of its tourism industry.

"I see China as Nevada's Comstock Lode for tourism," said Hunt, comparing China's 1.4 billion citizens to the body of ore in Virginia City that yielded $400 million in silver and gold in the late 1800s.

Hunt, speaking at the opening session of the 2005 Governor's Conference on Tourism, said that luring just 1 percent of China's population to Las Vegas for three days per visit would generate enough room nights to fill every hotel in the city for nearly a year. If that same 1 percent spent just a day per tourist in the Reno-Tahoe market, their visits would combine to fill every room there for two years.

The Nevada Commission on Tourism warmed to China as a potential visitor-volume jackpot about four years ago, Hunt said, despite suggestions from other states that efforts to woo Chinese tourists were premature. As a result of that forward thinking, the commission recently became the only U.S. entity with a license from the Chinese government to market travel directly to the country's citizens. Just 12 countries -- and no other American states -- have such licenses, Hunt said.

"What a vehicle this will be for marketing. Other states are going to be several years behind us," Hunt said.

Hunt added that the commission will use its head start to portray Nevada as a "compelling destination" for Chinese visitors.

Hunt was not the only speaker at the conference, which concludes today at Wynn Las Vegas, citing China as a flourishing travel market.

Roger Dow, president and chief executive officer of the Travel Industry Association of America, spoke of encouraging international travel as a path to "building understanding" between cultures and nations. He praised the Silver State for nabbing the first U.S.-based license for marketing to Chinese travelers.

"(The commission's) getting there first will pay huge dividends not only for Nevada but for the whole country," Dow said.

In a separate presentation, Xiqin Zhang, vice chairman of the China National Tourism Administration, did a little selling of his own.

"Las Vegas is a miracle in the development of the tourism industry," Zhang said. "At this moment, China is working hard to create another (tourism) miracle."

Zhang pointed to an array of tourism-related statistics that he said resulted from more than 20 years of economic reforms and progress in opening China to the rest of the world.

China now has 300,000 tourism-related enterprises with a total of about 6.5 million employees, Zhang said. The country also has 10,000 star-rated hotels and more than 15,000 travel agencies. In 2004, nearly 42 million outsiders visited China, creating $25.7 billion in tourism receipts, he said.

By 2010 -- two years after the Beijing Olympics -- Chinese officials predict the country will see 77 million international tourists who will ring up a total of $58 billion in visitor-related receipts. The tourism sector will employ 10 million Chinese by then, Zhang said.

As international visitors find their way to China, more Chinese citizens are traveling the world, Zhang said.

In 2004, 28 million Chinese traveled overseas to far-flung destinations; about 440,000 of them visited the United States. This year's numbers have already surpassed last year's figures: More than 30 million Chinese have traveled internationally, 446,000 of them in the United States.

"Wherever there is sunrise, there are tourists from China," Zhang said.

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data show the local market has minuscule numbers of visitors from China. Thirteen percent of the city's tourists hail from overseas, and the vast majority of those visitors come primarily from Canada, Germany, Australia and the United Kingdom. China combines with several nations to fill a catchall "other" category that claims just 1 percent of the city's total visitor volume.

Zhang said expanding the number of tourists from China to America would require that the "United States government ... open the doors to Chinese tourists like China did for the United States 20 years ago."

Tourism officials from Nevada and Las Vegas have acknowledged in recent months that restrictive requirements for travel visas from China into America have hindered efforts to boost local visitor volume from that country.

It's a bureaucratic problem officials have said the United States would be wise to fix.

"Tourism is a bridge to friendship" that would benefit understanding and foster trust between China and America, Zhang said.

The International Cities Business Council (ICBC) of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI) strives to build a bridge among important cities nationally and internationally. ICBC has set the following goals: (1) Mutual cooperation and development of business, trade, and tourism; (2) Public relations among businesses and professionals; and (3) Social and dinner events within the community with a friendly atmosphere.

"As the Hononary Chairperson of International Cities Business Council of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI), I'll have more venues to work for international tourism with Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn who is the Chairman of the Advisory Board of WBTI. We're putting all our effort and wisdom to work for our people, land, and country under the spiritual leadership of Chairperson Elaine Chao of WBTI," said Lorraine Hunt, Lt. Governor of Nevada, on November 11, 2005.
(The above message was signed by Lt. Governor of Nevada Lorraine Hunt.)*1

Justice of the Supreme Court Michael Douglas, District Judge Jessie Walsh, Clark County Commissioner Lynette McDonald, Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber, Clark County Sherriff Bill Young, business executives and owners, multimedia publishers and Editors-in-Chief, organizational and community leaders, and other VIPs co-sponsored the initial establishment of the Intercity Business Council of Nevada (also known as the "International Cities Business Council") of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI) . The historical event took place on December 16, 2004 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U. S. A.

The Directors of the International Cities Business Council (ICBC) at the present time are: Honorable Han Zheng, Mayor of the City of Shanghai, China, Honorable Jim Gibson, Mayor of the City of Henderson, Nevada, Honorable Michael L. Montandon, Mayor of the City of North Las Vegas, Nevada, Dr. Stuart Mann, Dean of the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Honorable Feng Wei Lai, County Governor of Penghu, Taiwan, Honorable Changping Zhang, Mayor of Xiamen, China, and the Honorable Tommy Hu, CEO (Mayor) of Xiang Fan, Hubei, China, CEO of United Commercial Bank, notably among others.

Lt. Governor of Nevada Lorraine Hunt was invited as the Honorary Chairperson of International Cities Business Council (ICBC) by President Dr. Tony Lei of WBTI. President Dr. Carol C. Harter of UNLV and Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber were elected as Advisors.

Nevada Lieutenant Governor Lorraine T. Hunt was re-elected to her current office in the November 2002 General Election. She originally took office in January of 1999. As the lieutenant governor, Hunt is president of the Nevada State Senate, chair of the Nevada Commission on Tourism, chair of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development (which includes the Nevada Film Office) and vice-chair of the Nevada Department of Transportation board of directors. She also sits on the governor�s cabinet and serves as chief executive when the governor is unable to serve for any reason or is absent from the state.*2

Hunt is a member of the executive committee of the National Lieutenant Governors Association and serves as vice-chair of the National Republican Lieutenant Governors Association.

It was then that Hunt first demonstrated her entrepreneurial ability by making her first real estate investment in a piece of desert land on the outskirts of Las Vegas. Years later the investment led her into the world of business when she became president and chief executive officer of Perri, Inc., a real estate and restaurant management company.

She has represented the private sector by serving as vice-chair of the Nevada Commission on Tourism; a director and past president of the Nevada Restaurant Association; director, Nevada Hotel-Motel Association; and vice-chair, Nevada Motion Picture Commission and vice chair of the Nevada Motion Picture Foundation.

She began her governmental service with her election to the Clark county commission. She served a four-year term as commissioner and, during her tenure, also served as vice-chair. She also became the first woman to chair the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) since its inception.

Throughout the years Hunt has acquired extensive experience in business and was awarded Nevada�s first Governor�s Award for Excellence in Business as well as being named Nevada�s U.S. Small Business Advocate of the Year. Additional awards and honors include: Casino Legends Hall of Fame, 2001, Educator of the Year, Nevada Restaurant Assoc., 2000; Republican Woman of the Year, 1996; Free Enterprise Award, 1993; Governor�s Conference on Tourism - first Lifetime Achievement Award, 1993; Nevada Restaurateur of the Year, 1992; Nevada Small Business Advocate Award, Small Business Administration, 1989; and the first Governor�s Award for Excellence in Business, State of Nevada, 1987.

Hunt also participates extensively in community service, including having served on the St. Rose Dominican Hospital Community Board, as past president and trustee of St. Jude�s Ranch for Children, and as Vice-Chair of the Pan Pacific and Asian American Forum (PPAAF) of WBTI.*3

Representatives of Air China Cargo have informed Nevada leaders the carrier will use Reno-Tahoe International Airport as a diversion airport when bad weather prevents its scheduled cargo flights from landing in San Francisco, Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt said Thursday.

A letter from the airline also hinted that additional flights between Asia and Northern Nevada could be in store.

In recent years, Hunt has led three missions to China to encourage additional trade and tourism between China and Nevada.*4

Governor Kenny Guinn of Nevada reminds us that tourism is the bedrock of Nevada's economy. To expand and diversify our domestic and international markets are absolutely essential to our long-term economic growth and stability.*5

Governor Kenny Guinn and Lt. Govenor Lorraine Hunt said that Nevada's tourism industry must continue to expand its offerings and reach out to diverse markets that range from outdoor enthusiasts to residents of the world's most populous nation (China). Speaking at the general session of the Governor's Conference on Tourism at Caesars Palace, he and she each praised Nevada's continuing efforts to supplement its gaming-based core with non-gaming amenities such as shopping, dinning, and outdoor recreation.*6

"I can't overstate the significance of China's potential as a visitor market for Nevada," Lt. Governor Hunt said. "I found modern cities rife with elements of Western culture such as Starbucks Coffee, MTV, the Rat Pack-era music of Frank Sinatra, etc. Up to 10 percent of the country's approximately 1.4 billion residents can now afford to travel overseas, which has positioned China as Nevada's "newest and most-modern market" for tourism."

On May 18, 2000 Lt. Governor Lorriane Hunt of Nevada led a delegation from Nevada to Taipei of the Republic of China. "This is important to Nevada in areas beyond just our tourism industry. Taiwan enjoys a growing economy with considerable technological advancement and as such, they are one of the world's top 15 trading nations. And with Nevada's total exports exceeding one billion dollars in 1999 alone, our local businesses stand to benefit as the Taiwanese market continues to prosper and expand," Lt. Governor of Nevada Hunt pointed out in Taipei.*7

"The Nevada Commission on Tourism believes it is vital to establish a presence in Taiwan in order to represent our tourism destinations to this emerging world travel market. Taiwan's capital, Taipei, has a working population of four million, with a youthful, technologically oriented work force. There is tremendous potential for building tourism among this sector," said Hunt.*8

"Similar to the new direction of the government in Taiwan, we are seeking new horizons for the economy of Nevada. Building mutally beneficial relationships with Taiwan, and other foreign countries, will create the demand for direct, regularly scheduled flights. Our work will help Nevada establish contacts for lucrative business and convention visitors from around the world that will form the foundation for a new pillar in the Nevada economy."*9

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References

*1. Hunt, Lorraine. 'As the Honorary Chairperson of the ICBC of WBTI,' "A search of 'Lt. governor Lorraine Hunt' on the Communitylink of Reviewjournal.com," (November 12, 2005), Las Vegas, Nevada: LVRJ.
*2. Google. 'About Nevada Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt,' "A search of 'Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt' on the Google.com," (November 10, 2005), Mountain View, California: Google.com.
*4. Cunningham, Yale S. 'China chooses Reno as backup cargo airport,' "An e-mail from Mr. Yale Cunningham to WBTI," (September 19, 2005), Las Vegas, Nevada: Office of Yale Cunningham
*5. Jones, Chris. 'China tourism potential touted,' "Las Vegas Review-Journal," (December 17, 2003), p. 1D.
*6. Guinn, Kenny. "A Message from Governor Kenny C. Guinn - December 10, 2003," Office of the Governor Kenny Guinn, (December 10, 2003), pp. 1-2.
*7. Hunt, Lorriane. (Fall 2000) 'Delegation to Taiwan Inauguration,' "The Nevada Report of Lt. Governor Lorriane Hunt," Carson, Nevada: Office of Lt. Governor.
*8. Ibid.
*9. Ibid.

Innovation is practical for a real need. It is not a random process. "When it works, it works because someone has identified a real need, and found a way to bring new ideas or new technologies to bear on that need," said Lewis W. Lehr. An innovator's life is governed by "to create" lists. She or he is incessantly pursuing new possibilities and refinning existing ones.

We are pleased to quote the following three short but meaningful ones:

***** Make a technical contribution, innovate, don't emulate. ---David Packard

***** any business that does not learn how to innovate within the next few years will not be around by the year 2000. ---Peter F. Drucker

***** Innovation has to be linked to a market-driven mentality, tied in with customer needs. It can't be done in a vacuum, or as innovation for its own sake. ---Jim Beard*2

It's our pleasure to post a short story from "Speaker's Source Book II" by Glenn Van Ekeren:

"Business has only two functions," writes Peter Drucker, "marketing and innovation."
Consider these phrases posted on separate roadside signs: A peach looks good...with lots of fuzz... but man's no peach... and never was... Burma Shave! In 1925, Burma Shave knew they had a great product but were ineffective in marketing it. So, their roadside advertising was implemented. Today, the Burma Shave commercial are highly recognized as memorable trivia.
Here's another exemplary approach combining innovation and unique marketing. A small garage-based company took a single product, biodegradable soap,broke the customary marketing trends and amassed a fortune.
Using multi-level marketing, Amway left its competitors green with envy. First, they produced a quality product, developed unique packaging, attached distinctive labeling, and then used direct salespeople to sell their product. It is working to the tune of an estimated $1 billion in annual revenues.
Domino's Pizza shocked the industry with their original idea: "Guaranteed delivery in 30 minutes or $3.00 off."Quick service is now a minimum standard in the food industry.
Innovative marketing-could it be the third function of business?*3

Innovation is one of the most important traits for the prosperity of American business. Hope our Pan Pacific and Asian countries may catch it as soon as possible!

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References

*1. PAI of WBTI is the initial of Public Administration Institution of Washington Business and Technology Institute.
*2. Ekeren, Glenn Van. "Speaker's Source Book II," (1994), Prentice Hall Press, Paramus, New Jersey: Prentice Hall Press.
*3. Ibid.

"It's really a challenge to me! Lots of my job are related to have a function on the basis of international perspective. Through this professional and practical venue, I'll put all my effort and talent to implement the missions for the promotion of the economic and trade cooperation and development among cities of Nevada, China, Taiwan, and other Pacific and Asian countries" said Miss Charlyne Chen (�˼ͥ) after she was informed by WBTI about her appointment on August 15, 2005 in Las Vegas.*2

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References

*1. Walsh, Jessie; Moss, Cheryl; and Chang, Tiffany. 'Drs. Lee Bernick and Keong Leong were appointed deans of GSBPA of WBTI,' "Nevada Examiner," (March 28, 2003), Las Vegas, Nevada: Nevada Examiner.

*2. Douglas, Michael; Walsh, Jessie; McDonald, Lynette; Weber, Valerie; and Chang, Tiffany. 'Charlyne Chen (�˼ͥ) has been promoted to Chairperson of the International Cities Business Council of Washington Business and Technology Institute,' "A search of 'International Cities Business Council' on the Google.com," (October 25, 2005), Mountain View, California: Google.com.

As Dr. Tony Lei inspires us that the four precious and valuable properties owned by the United States of America are Freedom, Democracy, judicial ruling, and Entrepreneurship, our Graduate School of Business and Public Administration (GSBPA) is promoting the cooperation and development of international tourism, business, education, and culture. To contribute to the Asian countries with the spirit of innovation and entrpreneurship, we need to emphasize our programs with our global e-business technology managemnt. We are surrounded by lots of e-business entreprises in this 21th Century era of businees world. An e-busineess entreprise is a business that uses the Internet, intranets, extranets, and other computer networks to support electronic business process, decision making, and team and workgroup collaboration within the enterprise and among its customers, suppliers, and other business partners.

One of our purposes is to strengthen our business prgrams with the emphasis of e-business technology management. We will encourage the management of information technology in our international e-business entreprises by three functions. We expect our e-business entriprises will make their managing information technologies effective by : (1)the joint development and implementation of e-business and Information Technology ( IT ) strategies by business and IT executives, (2)managing the research and implementation of new information technologies and the development of e-business applications, and (3)managing IT processes, professionals, and subunits within company's IT organization and Information System (IS) function.*2

Computer and technology are as natural as the air for the people in today's workplace which is teeming wih individuals who have terrific idea and a great deal to contribute. "In 'WinningWays,' Dick Lyles gives us four very powerful strategies that all of us can use to improve our relatioships with others and increase our own level of success. These are the best guidelines I've seen to help you unleash your power and reach your maximum potential," wrote Dr. Ken Blanchard.*3 The four powerful strtegies for the secret of winning ways are: (1). Make people feel stronger rather than weaker as a result of your interactions wih them. (2). Camels are Okay. In fact, today's camel builders will be tommorrow's leaders. (3). Avoid two-valued thinking traps, because very few decisions are choices between right and wrong or good and bad. (4). Influence for the future, rather than the present or the past.

"Lee Iacocca told us that management is nothing more than motivating other people. I agree with U. S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley that once she said, 'The knowledge delivered by the publications of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI) through its multimedia inspire us with a positive thinking to love our people, community, professionalism, and country.' I'm impressed that the Graduate School of Business and Public Administration (GSBPA) of WBTI quoted again lots of valuable words of positive thinking," said Judge Nancy Saitta, District Judge of Nevada. She likes to read the WBTI website (http://communitylink.reviewjournal.com/lvrj/wbti) with colorful and creative design. Even as the number 53,477th [on 5/5/2004 (now at the number of 102,671 on September 30, 2005)} visitor of the website, she is proud to be on the list. We express regret for that the numbers of this website are limited because of its contends by nature of the academic and professioal features. Intelletuals may ask that "How many people could and should be the readers of the book written by our famous scientist Albert Einstein?"

You never know! By adding the number of visitors who access it from the search engines leading giants such as Google.com, Google.cn, AOL.com, WebCrawler.com, Infoseek.com, among others, the number of visitors to WBTI website are numerous.

We are quite encouraged through the commends of their visiting either by President Dr. Andrew Benton of Pepperdine University, U. S. Senators Harry Reid and John Ensign, Chancellor Dr. Charles Runnels of Pepperdine University, U. S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley, Justice of the Supreme Court Michael Douglas, District Judge Jessie Walsh, Clark County Commissioner Lynette McDonald, Judge Betsy Kolkoski, Sherrif Bill Young, District Court Judge Cheryl Moss, among others, or by their Secretaries. And thus, we try to offer you the following inspiration of the golden words of wisdom:

"A word aptly spoken is like apple of gold in settings of silver." --- Proverbs 25 : 11
"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12 : 10
"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend spring from his earnest counsel." --- Proverbs 27 : 9
"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."
--- Proverbs 15 : 22
"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." --- John F. Kennedy
"Seven days without laughter makes one weak." --- Joel Goodman
"Today, more than ever before, every person is a potential user of computers." --- Marilyn Bohl, in her Preface of "Information Processing," 3rd Ed., 1980.
"To be a college or graduate student at this new era, especially in the field of business, she or he should owns four kinds of ability in computing: (1) Word processing, (2) Electronic spreadsheets, (3) Data base management, and (4) Statistical analysis and Charts. As a modern manager and any professionl in business, she or he is more productive in work performance with her or his good talent in computers. --- Tony Tung-tien Lei, M. B. A.; in his Preface of "Mangement Information," 1st Ed. Dec. 1987.
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
--- Proverbs 16 : 3
"He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend." --- Proverbs 22 : 11
"All hard work brings a profit." --- Proverbs 14 : 23
"The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." --- Proverbs 21 : 5
"The reward for work done is the opportunity to do more." --- Jonas Salk, MD
"I think the next best thing to solving a problem is finding some humor in it." --- Frank A. Clark
"Freedom is the oxygen of the soul." --- Moshe Dayan
"With sincere love, it's like living in Heaven. On the other hand, with cruel hate, it's like living in Hell. Fighting and malice for selfish gain belong to Hell. Cooperation and encouragement to promote quality of life are attitudes of Heaven." --- Tony T. Lei, Ed. D.
"Do to others as you would have them do to you." --- Luke 6 : 31
"A man finds joy in giving an apt reply --- and how good is a timely word!" --- Proverbs 15 : 23
"One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty." --- Proverbs 11 : 24
"The great Winston Churchill said, 'We all make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.' Tony, I know that you like to exemplify this inspiration same as it's my driving force by which I start out each day." --- Natalie L. Tyrrell
"Freedom, Democracy, Judicial ruling, and Entrepreneurship are the best four treasures of the United States of America." --- Dr. Tony T. Lei
"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?" --- Vincent Van Gogh
"Nothing great was ever done without much enduring." --- St. Catherine of Siena
"Anthing you're good at contributes to happiness." --- Bertrand Russell
"To a friend's house the road is never long." --- Anonymous
"The secret of joy in work is contained in one word --- excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it." --- Pearl Buck
"The paralleled practice of both the positive thinking and love in action through the skills with good personal traits such as enthusiam, belief, intellegence, creativity, judgement, liveliness, vision, courage, desire to excel, and persistence, will help people pursue a rich , happier , and successful life." --- Tony T. Lei, Ed. D.

With the above words of wisdom, we are glad to have our leaders's inspiration and encouragement for the cooperation and development on tourism and business among international countries with Nevada:

Governor Kenny Guinn of Nevada reminds us that tourism is the bedrock of Nevada's economy. To expand and diversify our domestic and international markets are absolutely essential to our long-term economic growth and stability.*4

Governor Kenny Guinn and Lt. Govenor Lorraine Hunt said that Nevada's tourism industry must continue to expand its offerings and reach out to diverse markets that range from outdoor enthusiasts to residents of the world's most populous nation. Speaking at the general session of the Governor's Conference on Tourism at Caesars Palace, he and she each praised Nevada's continuing efforts to supplement its gaming-based core with non-gaming amenities such as shopping, dinning, and outdoor recreation.*5

Governor Guinn expresses that he can not overemphasize the significance and importance of bringing attention to all the attractions to Nevada at a time when it faces unprecedented competition for gaming customers. He believes that we are wise to expand our marketing efforts and focus on developing markets in places such as Asia. It is significant for him to point out that in addition to gaming, Nevada has phenomenal cultural, historic, and recreational resources that we must continue to promote. The Governor emphasizes that for our state's economy to thrive, all of the Silver State's tourism opportunities must be effectively marketed to both domestic and international visitors.*6

The modern and creative philosophy of management is advanced on the following words of wisdom, among others:*7

***"The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit." --- Moliere
***"Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity." --- Oprah Winfrey
***"The secret of joy in work is contained in one word -- excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it." --- Pearl Buck
***"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." --- Proverbs 15 : 22 "Bible"

"As a bridge between the business and university, the integrity of community service and academic research of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI) will help Nevada go advance for the cooperation and development in education, business, and culture among international countries. As an Adjunct Associate Professor of the Graduate School of Business and Public Administration (GSBPA) of WBTI, it's my pleasure to extend my knowledge, experience, and professionalism in public service for community and education at the adjunct capacity," said Jackie Glass, District Judge of Nevada, at the event and dinner party by Unity Council of Nevada in Lindo Michoacan Mexican Restaurant on April 28, 2004 in Las Vegas.*8

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References

*1. GSBPA of WBTI is the initial of the Graduate School of Business and Public Administration of Washington Business and Technology Institute.
*2. O'Brien, James A.. (2003) "Introduction to Information Systems," Boston, N. Y.: McGraw-Hill Irwin.
*3. Lyles, Dick. (2000) "Winning Ways," New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons.
*4. Chang, Tiffany. 'Tourism development and prosperity for Nevada inspired and encouraged by Governor Kenny Guinn and Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt,' "PPAA18 of WBTI," Las Vegas, Nevada: WBTI.
*5. Ibid.
*6. Ibid.
*7. Chang, Tiffany. 'Some good personal traits for an individual to be successful in business and some golden words of wisdom for positive thinking,' "Newsbrief of WBTI," (April 8, 2004), Las Vegas, Nevada: WBTI.
*8. Glass, Jackie. "A writing paragraph with signature on my appointment by Washington Business and Technology Institute," (April 28, 2004), Las Vegas, Nevada: WBTI.

International Cities Business Council (ICBC) strives to build a bridge among important cities nationally and internationally. ICBC has set the following goals: (1) Mutual cooperation and development of business, trade, and tourism; (2) Public relations among businesses and professionals; and (3) Social and dinner events within the community with a friendly atmosphere.

Justice of the Supreme Court Michael Douglas, District Judge Jessie Walsh, Clark County Commissioner Lynette McDonald, Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber, Clark County Sherriff Bill Young, business executives and owners, multimedia publishers and Editors-in-Chief, organizational and community leaders, and other VIPs co-sponsored the initial establishment of the Intercity Business Council of Nevada (also known as the "International Cities Business Council") of Washington Business and Technology Institute (WBTI) . The historical event took place on December 16, 2004 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U. S. A.*1

The Directors of the International Cities Business Council (ICBC) at the present time are: Honorable Han Zheng, Mayor of the City of Shanghai, China, Honorable Jim Gibson, Mayor of the City of Henderson, Nevada, Honorable Michael L. Montandon, Mayor of the City of North Las Vegas, Nevada, Dr. Stuart Mann, Dean of the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Honorable Feng Wei Lai, County Governor of Penghu, Taiwan, Honorable Changping Zhang, Mayor of Xiamen, China, and the Honorable Tommy Hu, CEO (Mayor) of Xiang Fan, Hubei, China, CEO of United Commercial Bank, notably among others.*2

Lt. Governor of Nevada Lorraine Hunt was invited to be the Honorary Chairperson of the International Cities Business Council (ICBC). President Dr. Carol C. Harter of UNLV and Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber were selected as Advisors. Miss Charlyne Chen was promoted to Chairperson of ICBC by President Dr. Tony Lei of WBTI on August 15, 2005.

A formal dinner party was held by Charlyne Chen, Chairperson of the International Cities Business Council, celebrating the establishment of ICBC at the skyroom restaurant of Stratosphere Casino and Hotel on September 5, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Honorable Michael L. Montandon, Mayor of North Las Vegas, Nevada was introduced by Miss Charlyne Chen and announced as the newest ICBC Director.

The following information about the Mayor are posted through the courtesy of the City of North Las Vegas, Nevada:

Michael L. Montandon has been a resident of Southern Nevada since 1992. He served as President of the Hidden Canyon Homeowners Association from August 1995 until June 1997. He was first elected Mayor of North Las Vegas in July 1997 and began his second four-year term as Mayor on July 1, 2001.*3

Mayor Montandon is also presently employed in the construction management industry. Prior to coming to Southern Nevada, Mayor Montandon worked in commercial appraisal and land planning in Phoenix, Arizona. He served as the Treasurer of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Appraisal Institute in 1995 and 1996.

In North Las Vegas, prior to becoming mayor, Michael served on the Mayor's Task Force for Wages, Benefits, and Finance. The task force studied fiscal responsibility in City Management and the work force.

Some of the many boards and committees Mayor Montandon served in included: Clark County Debt Management, Civilian Military Council, Deferred Compensation Advisory Board, Board Member of North Vista Hospital - ex-officio, North Las Vegas Housing Authority, North Las Vegas Library District Board of Trustees, Southern Nevada Strategic Planning Authority, Southern Nevada Enterprise Community Program, and the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition Federal Lands Subcommittee.

Mayor Montandon graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and in July 2000, he completed the Harvard University Program for Senior Executives at the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Mayor Montandon is married to Antoinette and has five children. Besides spending time with his family, he includes dirt bike riding and racquetball as his hobbies.*4

"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel," Proverbs 27:9.

"He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend," Proverbs 22:11.*5

"Mayor Michael Montandon has been one of our Advisors of the Pan Pacific and Asian American Forum of WBTI since 2002. It's our pleasure and honor to have Michael again as one of our Directors for the ICBC. We're expecting more city mayors will also join him as Directors as evidenced by his popularlity, integrity, and professionalism," said the Founder of ICBC, Dr. Tony Lei.

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References

*1. Weber, Valerie; and Kung, Jennifer. 'A welcome and celebration dinner party held by Chairperson Charlyne Chen of International Cities Business Council in Las Vegas,' "A search of 'International Cities Business Council' on the Google.com," (September 24, 2005), Mountainview, California: Google.com.
*2. Ibid.
*3. The City of North Las Vegas. 'A profile of the Mayor,' "A search of 'Mayor Michael Montandon' on the Google.com," (September 24, 2005), Mountainview, California: Google.com.
*4. Ibid.
*5. Office of Congresswoman Shelley Berkley. 'U. S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley Succeeds in Adding Land Transfer for New Southern Nevada VA Medical Complex to Omnibus Spending Bill,' "Section 'Business & Administration' of WBTI on 12/22/04," (September 17, 2005), Las Vegas, Nevada: WBTI.

Penghu archipelago is a window facing the sea. Penghu is beautiful!

The Penghu archipelago is a strand of one hundred resplendent pearls hanging from the tropic of cancer. Created by silent and hidden turmoil, the inky black, brown, and crimson basalt retain the wrinkles of volcanic lava rising up from the seabed thousands of millions of years ago.*1

Solidified ino basalt, the islands are covered with lofty and steep ridges. The long forgotten basalt has many expressions: some tower with pride; some radiate freely; some lay down restfully. Huge waves disappear at the feetof giant rocks, reflecting the dignity of the islands. Lively with harbors lined up one after another, shorelines wriggle like ribbons dancing against the wind while guiding migratory birds to southern habitats.

Assisted by the colorful ocean, fine beaches collect dazzlingly white shells and ancient corals. The lack of rain does not prevent the low smooth grassland from being luxuriant. Indian Blanket and the other cactuses bloom extravagantly, ignoring the barrenness of the land.

At night, the village lamps and fishing lights outline the islands like stars on a star chart.

Peng is very sunny.*2

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References

*1. Yu, Chung-lin (in Chinese). "Penghu, love at first sight," the government of Penghu, Taiwan, (August, 2005), p. 13.
*2. Ibid.

The Directors of International Cities Business Council (ICBC) {「 國 際 城 市 企 業 協 進 會 」} at the present time are: Mr. Han Zheng, City Mayor of Shanghai, China; Mr. Jim Gibson, Mayor of Henderson, Nevada; Mr. Michael L. Montandon, Mayor of North Las Vegas, Nevada; Mr. Feng Wei Lai (賴峰偉), County Governor of Penghu, Taiwan; Mr. Changping Zhang, Mayor of Xiamen, China; Mr. Tommy Hu, CEO (Mayor) of Xiang Fan, Hubei, China; CEO of United Commercial Bank; among others.*8

Lt. Governor of Nevada Lorraine Hunt has been invited as the Honorary Chairperson of the International Cities Business Council (ICBC) {「 國 際 城 市 企 業 協 進 會 」}. Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber is the Advisor.

Mr. Jim Gibson, Mayor of Henderson, Nevada was introduced by Miss Charlyne Chen to participate ICBC as a Director.

The following information about the Mayor is post through the courtesy of the City of Herderson, Nevada:

James Gibson was elected Mayor of the City of Henderson in May 1997 and re-elected to his third term in 2005. As the second largest city in Nevada and one of the fastest growing cities in America, Henderson has experienced a staggering 335% growth rate over the past fifteen years. By 2010, Henderson's population is projected to exceed 306,000.*2

Mayor Gibson is a native Nevadan, born in Las Vegas and a resident of Henderson for nearly 48 years. He was educated in the Clark County School District, earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Brigham Young University in 1972 and his law degree from the California Western School of Law in 1975. He formerly served as General Counsel for the operating subsidiaries of American Pacific Corporation. He has been a practicing attorney for 29 years. He is currently employed as the Chairman & CEO of Transit Systems Management, the management company for the Las Vegas Monorail.

Mayor Gibson is active in civic affairs and currently serves on the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Commission's Air Quality Committee. He is a member and current secretary-treasurer of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Board of Directors, member of the Nevada Development Authority Board of Directors, member of Board of Directors of the Las Vegas Events, member of the City of Henderson Redevelopment Agency, and has served as Chairman of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee for eleven legislative sessions, and as a member of the Regional Transportation Commission. In addition, he represents the City on the Federal Lands Sub-Committee and has been active on various committee assignments for the Clark County Bar Association.

The Boy Scouts of America Boulder Dam Area Council awarded Mayor Gibson the Silver Beaver Award in 2004 and the Good Scout Award in 2002. He also received the 2002 Humanitarian Award from the National Jewish Medical and Research Center. He was named the 1994 Henderson Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Member.*3

In order to build an association among important cities nationally and internationally for: (1) Mutual cooperation and development of business, trade, and tourism; (2) Social and public relations among business and professionals; and (3) Event and dinner parties for our community in an atmosphere of friendly and mutual cooperation. Justice of the Supreme Court Michael Douglas, District Judge Jessie Walsh, Clark County Commissioner Lynette McDonald, Nevada Assemblywoman Valerie Weber, Southern Nevada Sherrif Bill Young, business executives and owners, multimedia publishers and Editor-in-Chief, organizational and community leaders, among others co-sponsored the initial establishment of Intercity Business Council of Nevada (with the name now as 'International Cities Business Council') on December 16, 2004 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U. S. A.*4

"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
and the pleasantness of one's friend
springs from his earnest counsel,"
Proverbs 27:9 of the Bible taught us; and
"He who loves a pure heart
and whose speech is gracious
will have the king for his friend,"
Proverb 22:11 of the Bible inspired us again.*5

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References

*1. Weber, Valerie; and Kung, Jennifer. 'A welcome and celebration dinner party held by Chairperson Charlyne Chen (陳思庭) of International Cities Business Council in Las Vegas,' "A search of 'International Cities Business Council' on the Google.com," (September 17, 2005), Mountainview, California: Google.com.
*2. The City of Henderson. 'A profile of the Mayor,' "A search of 'Mayor James Gibons' on the Google.com," (September 17, 2005), Mountainview, California: Google.com.
*3. Ibid.
*4. GSBPA of WBTI. 'A profile of Intercity Business Council of Nevada,' "A search of 'Intercity Business Council of Nevada' on the Google.com," (August 15, 2005), U. S. A.: Google.com.
*5. Office of Congresswoman Shelley Berkley. 'U. S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley Succeeds in Adding Land Transfer for New Southern Nevada VA Medical Complex to Omnibus Spending Bill,' "Section 'Business & Administration' of WBTI on 12/22/04," (September 17, 2005), Las Vegas, Nevada: WBTI.