The Godfather's Executive Brief We're on a Mission from God October 2008 A Word from the Godfather Purpose – We're on a mission from God! My life has one purpose – helping and serving others. As Jesus commanded in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Philosophy: My philosophy is to help and serve others through career opportunities, charity and “connecting” people. To whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48). Background – My fifteen minutes of fame was a counter-terrorism software that was acquired by IBM. Currently focused on executive placement for the gaming and high tech industries, charity, horse racing and leaving the world a little bit better than I found it. I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers, you did for me (Matthew 24:40). Newsletter – The Godfather's Executive Brief is a monthly collection of business and industry news distributed to 2,500+ senior executives worldwide. Events: I host private networking events (“Sit Downs”) in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Dallas. Executives, entrepreneurs and celebrities. No sales, no marketing, no soliciting…no charge. An opportunity to meet the most interesting and influential people in America. Web Site: Check out the web site for the latest news, career opportunities and pictures. The Foundation: The Foundation is my executive placement firm (Director level and up, $100,000+ compensation) focused on the gaming and high tech industries. A portion of all revenues goes to charity. [top] Movers and Shakers “Inside Las Vegas Business” with The Godfather Big Brothers Big Sisters - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada helps children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships. BBSN matches children with adult and older teen role models. The annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala is November 1 at Wynn Las Vegas, and the Godfather is on the host committee. If you would like to buy individual seats (I'm assembling several tables), sponsor a table or donate to the silent auction, please contact me directly at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. May the Lord bless you richly for your generosity! Keith Copher has joined TableMax as SVP, Compliance. Keith is former Nevada Gaming Control and used to work with my good friend Steve Toneguzzo at GGS. Might be the best compliance executive ever! Scot Campbell is the new SVP/CIO at MGM Mirage. He was previously VP at City Center, and has held the CIO role at Wynn Las Vegas and Nevada Cancer Institute. Congratulations to Scot on a role he was born to fill. I love this guy! Joe Long, formerly with Park Place and Harrah's Entertainment, is the new CIO at the Tropicana. Congrats Joe! Tom Peck, formerly SVP/CIO at MGM Mirage, has landed as CIO at Levi Strauss in San Francisco. My brother!! Matt Fleming is the new VP, Customer Care at Beau Rivage. Congratulations Matt! Ginny Shanks has left Harrah's Entertainment to take on the role of Chief Marketing Officer for Multimedia Games. Mike Heavner was promoted to Director of Finance at Treasure Island in Minnesota. Chet Koch is the new GM at Ameristar Kansas City. Lisa Robertson was promoted to Director of Hotel Operation at Mohegan Sun. Gene Chayevsky is the new CEO at Cadillac Jack. Rikki Tanenbaum is the new Director of Marketing at Viejas in San Diego. Congrats Rikki – get a brother a casino rate? Tyson Wrensch has joined Tablemax as an Account Executive, and the good brother is tearing it up. Keep up the good work Tyson! Jack Braman, long-time CIO at the Venetian…has left the building. Bill White is the new CIO at the Venetian. Scott Preble, formerly with MGM Mirage, has assumed a VP role with the Venetian as well. Richard Vosburgh, formerly SVP of Human Resources at MGM City Center…has left the building! It's interesting how someone that “does not believe in recruiters” is always the first one to send me a resume when they get fired. How does that work? Not judging, just trying to understand the model. With Richard gone, that makes Michael Peltyn VP of HR at City Center, Kelley Tuckey VP of Recruiting and David Reese Director of Recruiting. I think I got that right. Stephanie Rosol is the VP of HR at Wynn Las Vegas. Was honored to get an audience with Stephanie this month. Getting Encore opened on December 22 is a huge job. Best wishes Stephanie! Cass Palmer, formerly VP of HR with Olympia Gaming, has moved over to the Tropicana. Wynn Las Vegas and Encore named Danielle Babilino senior vice president of sales Russ McMeekin, CEO of Progressive Gaming, has left the company. Terry Oliver is taking on the Interim CEO role. Tim Parrott, CEO of Aristocrat, has left the company. Nick Kihn is the new CEO for the Americas. Carol Pride has resigned as CIO at Pinnacle Entertainment to take the CIO position at Mohegan Sun. Pinnacle promoted Guido Bologna to VP of Information Technology. Congratulations Guido! Jeff Fishman, a good friend of the Godfather for many years, received an ALMA award this month for his Executive Producer work on Hickspanic. Cher – this is one of the best shows ever. Being in the front row helped, but nonetheless, sensory overload! If you are a Cher fan this is a must see. What Recession? This weekend I went to the Forum Shops. Packed. Attended Cher's show. Sold out. Green Valley Ranch Station? More of the same. If there is a recession, I think we might be heading out of it! Crime Stoppers Nevada will have their annual luncheon on October 29 at the Orleans. For more information and to buy tickets call 385-5555. Godfather Marketing Tip of the Month: I had the “VP of Sales and Marketing” from a nightlife company approach me this month. As Chairman of an upcoming charity event, recommended he donate a package to silent auction. Great awareness and branding for him company. When I asked what services he provides so I could help him and his company he stated, “look at our web site.” Nice. Godfather Candidate of the Month: Here is a great interview story from a local casino executive. Casino Executive: In reviewing your resume, it appears that you are no longer employed with "ABC Company". Candidate: Correct.....moving to this town (Las Vegas) was the worst move that I ever made. Casino Executive: You are aware that the position that we are discussing today is based in Las Vegas. Candidate: Yes.....but it doesn't change the fact that I hate it here! Casino Executive: Tell me why you decided to leave ABC Company? Candidate: They eliminated my position but I'm okay with it. I really didn't like the management team there. Casino Executive: What didn't you like about the management team? Candidate: I just can't stand negative people! Godfather Career Tip of the Month: Never take a counter-offer, and for goodness sakes, never break a commitment after you sign the offer letter. Recently had a $200,000+ candidate reneg after he signed the offer letter. Remember, Las Vegas is Mayberry RFD, so don't burn your bridges. Job Market. Unemployment numbers continue to rise. Las Vegas is up to an all-time high of 7.1%. About 65,000 people applied for 5,000 jobs at Encore (Wynn). Godfather prediction - rebound in 2Q09. Heart-Wrenching Video of the Month: Last month we had the video about the father/son team completing a triathlon. If you missed it, click HERE. “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me – Philippians 4:13. This month we have another MUST SEE video for those with teenagers. Starts off slowly, however by the end you will definitely understand the message. Godfather Web Site: For all the latest news and career opportunities, check out the new and improved Godfather web site at www.godfatherlv.com. Thanks to Twelve Horses for all their help on the site. They do outstanding work. Upcoming Events: The last “Godfather Sit Downs” of the year will be at House of Blues West Hollywood in October and Barona Valley Ranch Resort in November. Clients and close friends – hope to see you there! Godfather “Sit Down” at VOX Wine Lounge: Where else can you find Kool and the Gang's Skip Martin, R&B rising star B. Taylor, Las Vegas entertainment legend Clint Holmes and the world's greatest close-up magician Steve Dacri…mixing with Scot Campbell (SVP/CIO, MGM Mirage), Gary Kapral (SVP, Bally Technologies), Bob Gerst (VP, Boyd Gaming), Tony Alves (VP, Planet Hollywood), Gavin Isaacs (COO, Bally Technologies), Scott Preble (VP, Venetian), Phyllis Gilland (General Counsel, American Casinos) and Lee Medick (Entrepreneur, Real Estate Mogul)? Oh yes, and Las Vegas legend Jaki Baskow, former Senator Sandra Tiffany and plastic surgeon Simong Youmans. It was a real blessing to see all my friends and clients at the VOX Wine Lounge (owned by Stephen Crystal) for a private networking event. The Godfather truly appreciates everyone coming out! Jeans to Jewels: Another great event hosted by Frank Martin and the Opportunity Village team. Thank you to Faisal Siddiqui, Todd Sims and Nathalie Ross for joining my table. Y'all rock! Godfather Technology “Sit Down”: We had 50 CIOs, VPs and Directors attend the Sit Down at The Stirling Club this month. The list included Joe Marcella (CIO, City of Las Vegas), Joe Long (CIO, Tropicana), Brian Garavuso (CIO, Diamond Resorts), Laura Fucci (CIO, Clark County), Mike Day (CIO, Cannery Resorts), Rob Willis (CIO, M Resort), Ed Fesler (Deputy CIO, JT3), Mike Aimee (VP, MGM Mirage), Blair Linville (VP, Harrah's Entertainment), Van Baltz (VP, Station Casinos) and Mary Siero (VP, Boyd Gaming). The event was sponsored by Lori Heinemann (Microstragegy), Phil Rodas (Quest Software) and Pat Murphy (Foundry Networks). Thank you to everyone that attended. Godfather “Sit Down” at House of Blues Dallas: Last event of the year, and it was awesome! We had Joe Devine (VP, Enexity), PJ Putnam (General Counsel, Gearbox Software), Van Taylor (Churchill Capital), Kevin Lee (C&J Investments), Sharon Stufflebene (CIO, 7-11) and Hal Rose (COO, First Broadcasting). The event was sponsored by my buddy Benjamin Kuntz of CareerBuilder. Thank you to the House of Blues Foundation Room for their hospitality, and all the great guests that attended. Sarah Palin: A Frontier Mom's Roots: Plucked from obscurity by John McCain, Sarah Palin has scrambled the presidential race. An intimate look at how a frontier mom learned to play the political game The 100 Most Powerful Women: Annual Forbes ranking of the most powerful women in the world measures "power" as a composite of public profile--calculated using press mentions--and financial heft. The economic component of the ranking considers job title and past career accomplishments, as well as the amount of money the woman controls. Home Depot's Total Rehab: First the customers revolted. Then housing went into a free fall. Time to slash and burn - unless you're CEO Frank Blake, who thinks an army of orange aprons will save the day. IBM's All-Star Salesman: Vivek Gupta is IBM's top salesperson in the company's fastest-growing industry in the fastest-growing part of the world. The Forbes 400: The rich haven't gotten richer--or poorer--this year. For the second year in a row, the price of admission to The Forbes 400 is $1.3 billion. In this, the 27th edition of the list, the assembled net worth of America's wealthiest rose by $30 billion--only 2%--to $1.57 trillion. Switchcraft: Telephone networks are going to be overhauled by a cheaper mix of software and servers. What's great for carriers is a huge threat to old telecommunications equipment makers. Michael Dell 'Friends' His Customers: How Michael Dell is using Facebook and other Web 2.0 sites to help turn his company around. Seven Lives--and Counting: Slots king Oleg Boyko has survived many setbacks. Now, with Russia curtailing gambling, he's prepared for his next career. Hitting Close to Home: Abandoned as a baby, this executive wouldn't have survived without help from others. Now he's returning the favor. Reality TV's Jackpot Queen: Cecile Frot-Coutaz is a force behind American Idol and America's Got Talent. Can her brand of schlock save network TV? Best Global Brands: Gutsy marketers spend into the teeth of a recession. Several of BusinessWeek's 100 Best Global Brands are doing exactly that. 10 Questions for Alec Baldwin: The 30 Rock star has written a book on divorce, A Promise to Ourselves. Alec Baldwin will now take your questions 10 Questions for Bill O'Reilly: Bill O'Reilly, opinionated commentator, author and host of one of cable television's highest-rated news programs, will now answer your questions Quote Unquote Congress is on vacation, and they're probably soaking up the rays somewhere. We're soaking up high gas prices. ASHLEY TYRRELL, a 26-year-old Kansan, on why she isn't traveling this Labor Day. AAA predicts the biggest decline in Labor Day travelers in eight years I need your help. ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, California governor, asking voters to understand his decision to raise taxes. The state has a $15 billion budget shortfall That's a lot of money we can be using for wildlife conservation. RACHEL LEVIN, spokeswoman for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, on why the agency won't spend $300,000 to fix a duck stamp that mistakenly lists a phone-sex number instead of a number to re-order stamps I'd probably call Gustav, instead of the mother of all storms, maybe the mother-in-law or the ugly sister of all storms. RAY NAGIN, mayor of New Orleans, after Hurricane Gustav failed to damage the city as many had expected I want to give a shout-out to all my Saudi Arabian brothers and sisters. If you could all please send me some oil for my jet, I would truly appreciate it. SEAN (DIDDY) COMBS, hip-hop mogul, in a video blog, on the high cost of fuel. Combs added, "I can't believe I'm flying commercial." Milestones The first African American to serve as executive director of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), Gene Upshaw held the post for 25 years. An outstanding offensive lineman for the Oakland Raiders, Upshaw was selected seven times for the Pro Bowl and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. When he was director of the NFLPA, his experience on the field gave him a unique understanding of player dynamics and helped him craft significant union agreements--including the game-changing introduction of free agency. He died of pancreatic cancer at age 63. From the distinctive cymbal crashes that punctuate Simon and Garfunkel's The Boxer to the chugging beat of Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire, the work of drummer Buddy Harman can be heard on some 18,000 recordings. The Nashville native took to the drums at a very early age, following in the footsteps of his mother, who played percussion in the family band. Over the course of his nearly half-century career, he mastered a wide variety of styles. He became a fixture in Nashville, accompanying everyone from Elvis Presley and Tammy Wynette to Dolly Parton. He was 79. While animator Bill Melendez worked on a vast range of cartoons during his nearly 70-year career, it was bringing Charles Schulz's Peanuts characters to life on TV and in film that brought him fame. He got his start in the late '30s with Walt Disney, working on Bambi, Dumbo and other projects before moving on to animate Warner Bros. characters like Bugs Bunny and Porky Pig. In 1959, Melendez was introduced to the world of Charlie Brown and Snoopy, and six years later, he animated the classic A Charlie Brown Christmas. For his impeccable work, Melendez earned four Emmy Awards and an Oscar nomination. He was 91. She co-starred in The Broadway Melody, the first talkie to win an Academy Award for Best Picture, yet actress Anita Page was known for her work in silent films. The New York City native was cast in many silent movies, notably alongside Joan Crawford in 1928's Our Dancing Daughters, though when her MGM contract ended in 1933, Page all but disappeared from film. She was 98. Over a 22-year career, sculptor Tina Allen crafted more than a dozen sculptures, busts and bas-reliefs of black activists and leaders such as A. Philip Randolph, George Washington Carver and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Perhaps her best-known creation was a 13-ft. (4 m) bronze sculpture of Alex Haley, author of the 1976 novel Roots. Allen's art, displayed in public spaces across the country, continues to honor African-American leaders. She was 58. Honky-tonk singer Charlie Walker's most popular tune was the 1958 recording of Pick Me Up on Your Way Down by Harlan Howard, which hovered at No. 2 on country-music charts for a month. While he had a handful of other country hits, many of Walker's fans got to know the Tennessee native's voice when he became a popular DJ for the Texas radio station KMAC. His years as a broadcaster earned him induction into the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame in 1981. Four years later, he portrayed a country singer in Sweet Dreams, a film about the life of legendary crooner Patsy Cline. Walker died of colon cancer at age 81. [top] Las Vegas/Gaming Headlines On the Move Keith Copher Appointed SVP, Compliance at TableMax Aristocrat Replaces Tim Parrott as CEO of Americas Progressive Gaming Replaces McMeekin, Warns Steve Wynn gets contract extension to 2020 American Casino & Entertainment Properties, the parent company of the Stratosphere, Arizona Charlie's Decatur and Arizona Charlie's Boulder, named Kevin Ball vice president of strategic sourcing, Derek Spisak vice president of revenue management and distribution and Keith Pakish vice president of gaming operations. MGM Mirage named Miriam Hammond senior vice president and chief human resources officer for MGM Mirage Operations. Gaming Headlines Cannery Partners Did it Their Way Profits Rise for Shuffle Master Ohio Casino Battle Heating up with TV, Radio Ads Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Continue Seeking Applicants for New Job Opportunities as Nevada's Unemployment Rate Rises Companies can bid on casino for southeast Kansas Mohegan Sun postpones expansion project Penn National wants return of $25 million in Kan. Kan. board picks Speedway to manage KC-area casino Isle of Capri chairman inducted into Gaming Hall of Fame CityCenter Unveils Stellar Lineup of Restaurants at ARIA Resort & Casino Pinnacle folds on Wyandotte County casino bid Workers top off casino-hotel at Vegas' CityCenter CityCenter to Deliver Most Technologically Advanced Hotels in U.S. When It Opens in Late 2009 The Mirage Volcano Web Network Grants Users Unique Way to Get Up-Close-and-Personal With Strip Icon Boyd redoes hotel deal Tropicana CEO: Rival bid won't deter pursuit Global Gaming Expo 2008 Nov. 18-20 Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, Nev. www.globalgamingexpo.com International Casino Exhibition (ICE) Jan. 27-29, 2009 Earls Court London, England www.ice-exhibition.com Las Vegas Headlines Mirage Volcano Gets Facelift Premiere of Criss Angel's 'Believe' delayed Nevada holds on to nation's highest foreclosure rate Foundation gives $20 million to Nevada Cancer Institute UNLV facing 'uncertainties' Closed car lots causing scramble Nevada Power Co. will change name to NV Energy [top] Required Reading Life is a continuous learning experience. The Godfather reads three to five books and approximately 20 periodicals each week. Here are a few that I liked this month. The Best Places to Launch a Career: Money is tight, but companies are getting imaginative with the perks they use to lure new talent. John Kotter on Dealing with Complacency in Companies The Numerati by Stephen Baker: By building mathematical models of its own employees, IBM aims to improve productivity and automate management. Extreme Experience: Septuagenarian CEOs: Seniors who run the show aren't the norm in business. But quite a number do. Here are 25 who can teach boomer and Gen Y managers a thing or two. 10 Bizarre and Daring Sales Feats: These legends mastered the sales pitch - and raked in the revenues. Biggest Sales Blunders: Sales psychologist Dr. G. Clotaire Rapaille talks about the biggest mistakes salespeople make. The Price of Greed: For years the financial markets roared along as if there were nothing to fear. Now it's payback time--and all of us will be feeling the pain Bailout Nation: Fearing turmoil in housing and the stock market, the government seizes mortgage lenders Fannie and Freddie. What it means for you – and the U.S. A Sense of Community: When he takes office in January, our next President will surely take steps to help more Americans serve. But you don't have to wait that long to get started. Become a Better You by Joel Osteen (Godfather Book of the Year): Joel Osteen reaches one of the largest audiences in the U.S. and across the globe--more than 42,000 people attend his church every week, and millions more tune in by television to hear his words of inspiration and wisdom. His first book, Your Best Life Now, has sold over 4 million copies and is available worldwide in 17 languages. His message of hope is helping people find a closer connection with God by learning to apply the principles of Scripture to their everyday lives. [top] Career Opportunities The Foundation, LLC We Won't Waste Your Time: You can get more of everything in life except time. We diligently screen every applicant, which translates to productive, high quality interviews. We won't waste your time! The Best Talent: Successful executives do not spend time surfing the Internet for jobs, reading the classified ads or circulating their resumes on job boards. The best candidates are already working and must be recruited away from good companies and good jobs. Our candidates come from personal relationships or “by referral” from a client base of 2,500+ executives nationwide. The Best Talent…Fast: Speed is the name of the game in talent. Good candidates are in high demand and have a short shelf life. Number one reason top performers are lost? The hiring process took too long. Speed also sends a powerful message to the candidate that “you are a high priority for our company.” The Foundation brings you the best talent…fast! Save Time, Save Money: Advertising and Internet postings generate a stack of resumes that require extensive screening for job hoppers, job shoppers and applicants who apparently didn't read the job description at all! Hiring the wrong candidate can cost the company up to 18 months of salary. Let The Foundation bring you pre-screened, high quality candidates. Personalized Service: We place an average of five executives per month. That translates to personalized service for each every one of our clients. Satisfaction guaranteed! The Godfather of Las Vegas – Serving Others: Our primary objective is helping others – we're on a mission from God. To whom much is given, much is expected. A portion of each placement is donated to charity. Client Testimonials Amazing contacts, great service and a great guy. An invaluable resource! Gavin Isaacs COO Bally Technologies A colleague referred me to Mark, when I need to conduct a search for a VP/CIO. We were delighted by the speed, the quality of the candidates and Mark's personalized assistance during the process. We hired our current CIO through Mark! Alan Baer SVP People and Information Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants Mark is the best networked person I've met in the industry, and has always been able to find the balance between the needs of my organization and fit of his candidates. I'm impressed with how he is able to clearly understand the business needs and at the same time help people excel in their career. Christopher McGivern Vice President Human Resources Viejas Enterprises Mark has conducted several highly successful executive searches for me. His success in placing superior executives is unparalleled in the gaming/casino industry. Mark's database of available talent is unmatched. Candidates and companies alike trust his ability to identify the right talent for the right opportunity. Mark is simply the best at what he does. Stephen Crystal CEO Tablemax, Inc. For any of you who have read The Tipping Point, Mark Wayman is the quintessential connector. Not only is he an excellent resource on the recruiting front, his events make up a significant portion of my social calendar. Mark is the only person you need to know to get connected in Vegas! Brad Warga VP, Talent Harrah's Entertainment Mark Wayman's excellent network is an invaluable asset to Shuffle Master when we search for highly qualified, exceptional candidates to join our team. His emphasis on quality rather than quantity makes it much easier for our company to quickly identify new employees who will assist us in reaching our core goals. Paul Meyer President and COO Shufflemaster Wayman has created a deep network of gaming industry insiders who provide real-time insight and connections to talent ranging from technologists, management and C level leaders. Mark's networking events bring together industry communications and cross pollenization much like a Chamber of Commerce but more effectively. Gary Kapral SVP, Human Resources Bally Technologies Help Wanted (Career Opportunites) Great career opportunities with great companies! If you know someone that would have interest, please have them forward a resume to mwayman@godfatherlv.com and mention your name. Any and all referrals gratefully accepted! General Manager - Casino ($300,000, Midwest) VP, Database Marketing ($225,000, Las Vegas) VP, Non-Gaming Operations - F & B and Hotel - Casino ($225,000, Southern California) VP, Hotel Operations - Casino ($225,000, Southern California) VP, Finance - Casino ($225,000, Southern California) CTO – Gaming ($200,000, Las Vegas) CIO – Media, Publishing, Entertainment ($200,000, Southern California) CFO ($200,000, Las Vegas) Account Executive - Gaming ($200,000, Nationwide) Technology Architect – Propellerhead ($200,000, Las Vegas) CIO – Healthcare ($150,000, Las Vegas) VP, Infrastructure ($150,000, Las Vegas) Director of Marketing - Gaming ($150,000, Las Vegas) VP, IT Infrastructure – Casino ($150,000, Las Vegas) Director, Planning and Analysis ($110,000, Las Vegas) Director, Finance ($100,000, South) Software Development Manager – Oracle Background ($100,000, Las Vegas) Product Manager ($100,000, Las Vegas) Controller ($75,000, Las Vegas) Software Development Manager ($100,000, Las Vegas) General Manager - Casino ($250,000, Southwest) Gaming/Casino Talent ($100,000 - $250,000, Nationwide) - The Godfather represents the top 5% of the executive talent in the gaming and casino industry, and only by referral. Constantly scouting for Director level and up talent. Technology Talent ($80,000 - $200,000, Nationwide) - The Godfather is always looking for senior level technology talent! Project Managers, Software Developers, DBAs, Network Engineers. Known Associates (Candidates) My best executive talent! I'll personally vouch for these candidates. If you have an opening that is a fit, please contact the Godfather at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. General Manager - Casino ($200,000+, Nationwide) COO ($200,000, Las Vegas) CIO ($250,000, Nationwide) CFO ($250,000, Orange County) VP, Human Resources ($200,000, Las Vegas) VP, Casino Marketing ($175,000, Las Vegas) Gaming/Casino Talent ($100,000 - $250,000, Nationwide) - The Godfather is currently representing approximately 100 casino executives. GM/AGM, CFO/CIO/COO, Compliance, Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Technology. The best casino talent in the business! Constantly scouting for Director level and up talent. Technology Talent ($80,000 - $200,000, Nationwide) - With the current economy, there are quite a few Godfather associates looking for new opportunities. Project Managers, Software Developers, DBAs, Network Engineers. If you have an opening, please reach out to the Godfather! [top] Photo Opp  | Ronnie Sanford Jacob Watters Brian Williams Benjamin Kuntz (Godfather “Sit Down at House of Blues Dallas) |  | Kevin Lee RV Ravichandran Karen Thornton Sharon Stufflebene (Godfather “Sit Down at House of Blues Dallas) |  | Jason Sasser, Van Taylor, Tom Hulsey, Joe Devine (Godfather “Sit Down at House of Blues Dallas) |  | Bob Gerst Jamie Basham, Michael Carlotti at VOX. |  | Erin Cornelius of Big Brothers Big Sisters at VOX. |  | Susan Wayman, Clint Holmes, Nancy “D” at VOX. |  | Howard Toy, Steve Dacri, Gavin Isaacs at VOX. |  | R&B Artist Billy Taylor at VOX. |  | Scott Preble, Michael Carlotti, John Busskohl at VOX. |  | Nathalie Ross and Dale at Jeans to Jewels. |  | Mom, Susan Wayman, Godfather at Jeans to Jewels. |  | Todd and Tracey Sims at Jeans to Jewels. |  | Scot Campbell, Clint Holmes, Sue Campbell at VOX. | [top] Favorites List Companies and people personally recommended by the Godfather. If you have interest, the Godfather can “connect” you. Central Christian: God, family, work…in that order. Central Christian began in 1962 out of a dream to connect the unconnected. Today, the original vision of this church is still thriving. That vision has kept Central firmly committed to helping people find Jesus Christ and grow to full devotion to Him. Services are conducted: - Saturday at 4:30 pm, 6:00 pm
- Sunday at 9:00 am, 10:20 am, and 11:45 am.
Gerson Racing: The Godfather owns 11 race horses with partner Sean Gerson, including stakes winning Set Play, and star two year olds Backbackbackgone and The Final Roar. See you at Del Mar! The Stirling Club: The Stirling Club is a members-only club inside Turnberry Place. This luxurious facility includes tennis courts, a pool, gym & spa, dining room, lounge, cigar room and nightclub. Nice! For membership information, contact the Godfather at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. CareerBuilder: This site is changing the way companies around the world recruit their most important asset: their people. For more information, or to set up a corporate account for job postings, contact Jamie Basham at jamie.basham@careerbuilder.com. Twelve Horses: Run by my friend Martin Gastanaga, Twelve Horses is an interactive marketing company specializing in business communications and messaging (email). A very innovative organization that helps with production of the Godfather's Executive Brief. Cirque Du Soleil: They produce six of the most phenomenal shows in Las Vegas and Orlando – Mystere, Ka, “O”, Love and Zumanity in Las Vegas. La Nouba in Orlando. They sell out most nights, however The Godfather has access to group seating (12 tickets or more) for his clients and friends. Email me at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. Career Czar: Paul Bruno's Internet radio show focused on career development and coaching. Joel Osteen: Joel Osteen, a native Houstonian, has committed his life to serving and helping every person, regardless of background and economic status, to achieve their fullest potential. Having started Lakewood's television ministry, Joel worked side-by-side with his father, Pastor John Osteen, for 17 years, and took Lakewood's positive message of hope to over 100 million households throughout the United States. Willy Roya: He is the greatest magician in the world…in his price range. Comedian, juggler, magician. Great for all your corporate and convention events. Will generously donates his time to the Godfather's charity events. S – The Balloon Man: “S” is a Balloon Artiste that will bring the house down at your corporate event or convention. Actor, singer, comedian…and Balloon Man! Gary Anthony as Frank Sinatra: The best Frank Sinatra impersonator in the business! Gary generously donates his time to the Godfather's charity events. Johnny Thompson at Elvis: The best Elvis impersonator in the business! Johnny is currently touring in Europe, however we look forward to seeing him in 2008. Janet Valentine as Marilyn Monroe: The best Marilyn impersonator in the business! Great for conventions and corporate events. She sings, she dances..she is fantastic. VegasInsideTips: Steve Dacri's outstanding newsletter with all the latest entertainment and tourist information. [top] The Godfather's Event Series The Godfather's Executive Event Series: Private networking events for clients and friends of the Godfather. “Sit Downs” started ten years ago with the motto, “no sales, no marketing, no soliciting…no charge.” Ours is a network of good hearted, pay it forward executives entrepreneurs and celebrities. No sales, no marketing, no soliciting – just an opportunity to meet the most amazing and influential people in the country. The Godfather's “Sit Down” – House of Blues West Hollywood (October): One of our favorite venues, located in the heart of the Sunset Strip. These events are typically entertainment and celebrity heavy, and this time around our sponsor is my good friend Brian Callahan of Markwood Capital. SOLD OUT! The Godfather's “Sit Down” – VIP Gaming Parlor at Barona Valley Ranch Resort (November): Rick Salinas of Barona and Sanjiv Goyal of Droisys are sponsoring this rare look into the secret life of high rollers. We'll be in the VIP Gaming Parlor, and I this event is restricted to clients and close friends. | Big Brothers Big Sisters “Big Gala” (November 1): The annual event to benefit BBBS at Wynn Las Vegas. For table or ticket sales, contact the Godfather at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. Opportunity Village Camelot (November 8): A Godfather favorite! Come check out the Magical Forest and mingle with the best people in Las Vegas. For table or ticket sales, contact the Godfather at mwayman@godfatherlv.com. [top] Charity and Community We're on a mission from God. An important component of that charter is charity. To whom much is given, much will be expected. The Godfather proudly supports the following organizations. Arthritis Foundation – The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research. Be sure to attend their “Oscar Night America” event in February 2009. This is the official Academy Award party benefiting the Arthritis Foundation. Big Brothers Big Sisters - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada helps children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships. BBSN matches children with adult and older teen role models. The Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala is at Wynn Las Vegas on November 1. Crime Stoppers – A privately funded, non-profit organization with a volunteer board of trustees. Crime Stoppers relies on donations from local businesses and individuals. All donations are tax deductible. Nevada Cancer Institute - Nevada Cancer Institute (NVCI) is the official cancer institute for the State of Nevada. A nonprofit organization, NVCI is committed to reducing the burden of cancer by pursuing the development of a comprehensive cancer research institute, as defined by the National Cancer Institute. Through the knowledge and expertise of the finest scientists, clinicians, educators and caregivers, the Institute provides hope to communities in Nevada, the southwest and beyond through research, education, early detection, prevention and high quality patient care. Opportunity Village - Opportunity Village is a not-for-profit organization that serves people with intellectual disabilities by providing them with vocational training, employment and social recreation services that make their lives more productive and interesting. Opportunity Village Camelot, the annual fundraising event, will be held November 8. Safe Nest - What is domestic violence? It takes many forms, but in general domestic violence is a pattern of violent and coercive behavior used by one partner in a relationship to control another. It affects all communities, regardless of income, race or religion. Three Square - Three Square is Southern Nevada's resource for the hungry. The vision of Three Square is simple: No one in our community should have to go without a healthy meal. By bringing together the resources, experience and passion of the people and businesses of Southern Nevada, we can make sure no one has to. When we work together, we don't just serve food. We serve hope. [top] Humor, Wisdom and Inspiration Humor A new pastor was visiting the homes of his parishioners. At one house it seemed obvious that someone was at home, but no answer came to his repeated knocks at the door. Therefore, he took out a card and wrote "Revelation 3:20" on the back of it and stuck it in the door. When the offering was processed the following Sunday, he found that his card had been returned. Added to it was this cryptic message, Genesis 3:10." Reaching for his Bible to check out the citation, he broke up in gales of laughter. Revelation 3:20 begins "Behold, I stand at the door and knock." Genesis 3:10 reads, "I heard your voice in the garden and I was afraid, for I was naked." Barbara Walters, of Television's 20/20, did a story on gender roles in Kabul, Afghanistan several years before the Afghan conflict. She noted that women customarily walked five paces behind their husbands. She recently returned to Kabul and observed that women still walk behind their husbands. From Ms.Walters' vantage point, despite the overthrow of the oppressive Taliban regime, the women now seem to walk even further back behind their husbands, and are happy to maintain the old custom. Ms. Walters approached one of the Afghani women and asked, 'Why do you now seem happy with an old custom that you once tried so desperately to change?' The woman looked Miss Walters straight in the eyes, and without hesitation said, 'Land Mines.' There was an old man sitting on his porch watching the rain fall. Pretty soon the water was coming over the porch and into the house. The old man was still sitting there when a rescue boat came and the people on board said, "You can't stay here you have to come with us." The old man replied, "No, God will save me." So the boat left. A little while later the water was up to the second floor, and another rescue boat came, and again told the old man he had to come with them. The old man again replied, "God will save me." So the boat left him again. An hour later the water was up to the roof and a third rescue boat approached the old man, and tried to get him to come with them. Again the old man refused to leave stating that, "God will save him." So the boat left him again. Soon after, the man drowns and goes to heaven, and when he sees God he asks him, "Why didn't you save me?" God replied, "You dummy! I tried. I sent three boats after you!!" Wisdom If God simply handed us everything we want, He'd be taking from us our greatest prize – the job of accomplishment. Frank. A. Clark Never insult an alligator until after you have crossed the river. Codel Hunt No one has ever bet enough on a winning horse. Richard Sasuly Make sure you can cross the pasture in 9.9 seconds…because the bull can cross it in 10. Sign on the Fence at Frank Martin's Bitter Root Ranch There is one weakness in people for which there is no remedy. It is the universal weakness of lack of ambition. Napoleon Hill God gives us the nuts, but he does not crack them. Proverb The key to being a good manager is keeping the people who ate me away from those who are still undecided. Casey Stengel Always tell the truth. That way, you don't have to remember what you said. Mark Twain You can run with the big dogs, or sit on the porch and bark. Wallace Arnold The man that follows the crowd will get no further than the crowd. The man who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one else has ever been. Alan Ashley-Pitt Good leaders must first become good servants. Robert Greenleaf The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. Anne Frank The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority. Ralph Sockman Inspiration Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back-given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. Luke 6:38 Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes”. Mark 9:23 But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:36-37 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear. 1 John 4:18 He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” Mark 16:15 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:12 For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:33 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:9-10 For whoever wants to save his life[c] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. Mark 8:35 And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me. Psalm 50:15 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. Matthew 24:40 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. Matthew 22:37-38 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Matthew 6:26 A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34 If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 Editors Note: The views, information and opinions expressed in this newsletter are held solely by the author, and do not reflect the views or opinions of any other person or company. Contact The Godfather of Las Vegas at mwayman2@cox.net. [top] |