THE EIGHTY-SECOND DAY
Carson City (Friday), April 23, 1999
Assembly called to order at 10:56 a.m.
Mr. Speaker presiding.
Roll called.
All present except Assemblymen Carpenter, Collins, Nolan and Segerblom, who were excused.
Prayer by the Chaplain, Louie Locke.
Psalm 35 says, "Lord, I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people." In this Assembly this morning, we praise and give You thanks. Psalm 105 encourages us to “Call upon Your name;” and that we do, on behalf of the people of our state and the people of our nation as we navigate through these days of difficulty and challenge in which we live. We call upon Your name, because You are the source of wisdom, the God of comfort, the One who can redeem. Show Yourself strong, O Lord. I pray Your blessing on the people of this Assembly. Put wisdom and integrity in their hearts that they might effectively carry out their duties and responsibilities. In the name of the Most High God, we pray. Amen.
Pledge of allegiance to the Flag.
Assemblyman Perkins moved that further reading of the Journal be dispensed with, and the Speaker and Chief Clerk be authorized to make the necessary corrections and additions.
Motion carried.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
Mr. Speaker:
Your Committee on Government Affairs, to which was referred Senate Joint Resolution No. 19, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass.
Also, your Committee on Government Affairs, to which was referred Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 15, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Be adopted.
Also, your Committee on Government Affairs, to which was referred Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 16, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Amend, and be adopted as amended.
Douglas A. Bache, Chairman
Mr. Speaker:
Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Senate Bill No. 382, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass.
Vivian L. Freeman, Chairman
Mr. Speaker:
Your Committee on Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Mining, to which were referred Senate Bills Nos. 166, 344, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass, and place on Consent Calendar.
Marcia de Braga, Chairman
Mr. Speaker:
Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which were referred Assembly Bills Nos. 151, 288, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass.
Also, your Committee on Ways and Means, to which were re-referred Assembly Bills Nos. 158, 199, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass, as amended.
Also, your Committee on Ways and Means, to which were referred Assembly Bills Nos. 656, 658, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Amend, and do pass as amended.
Morse Arberry Jr., Chairman
MESSAGES FROM THE Senate
Senate Chamber, Carson City, April 22, 1999
To the Honorable the Assembly:
I have the honor to inform your honorable body that the Senate on this day adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 48.
-- Mary Jo Mongelli
-- Assistant Secretary of the Senate
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES
By Assemblymen Williams, Arberry, Parks, McClain, Collins, Manendo, Segerblom, Gibbons, Von Tobel, Ohrenschall, Price, Marvel, Berman, Neighbors, Lee, Buckley, Perkins, Hettrick, Cegavske, Humke, Chowning, de Braga, Mortenson, Claborn, Gustavson, Angle, Koivisto, Parnell, Tiffany, Freeman, Bache, Anderson, Giunchigliani, Goldwater, Thomas, Carpenter, Nolan, Leslie, Brower, Evans, Beers and Dini; Senators Neal, Amodei, Care, Carlton, Coffin, Jacobsen, James, Mathews, McGinness, O'Connell, O'Donnell, Porter, Raggio, Rawson, Rhoads, Schneider, Shaffer, Titus, Townsend, Washington and Wiener:
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 49—Memorializing civil rights pioneer Dr. James B. McMillan.
Whereas, The members of the Nevada Legislature were saddened to learn of the passing of civil rights pioneer Dr. James B. McMillan; and
Whereas, James B. McMillan was born on January 14, 1917, in Mississippi, to James Milton McMillan and the former Rosalie Gay; and
Whereas, James B. McMillan graduated from the University of Detroit where he was the first black to play on the school’s football team; and
Whereas, James B. McMillan attended and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, the country’s first black medical college, and served his country in the Army Dental Corps during World War II and the Korean War; and
Whereas, When Dr. McMillan moved to Las Vegas in the early 1950s, he became the first black dentist in the State of Nevada; and
Whereas, At the time, the city was known as the “Mississippi of the West” where blacks were welcome at the casinos and hotels as entertainers and menial laborers, but not to gamble or socialize; and
Whereas, In 1960, in what is widely regarded as one of the most historic moments in Las Vegas history, Dr. McMillan, then President of the Las Vegas chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, led the successful struggle to desegregate the town by challenging the “Strip” and downtown hotels and casinos to purge themselves of their racist policies; and
Whereas, On March 26, 1999, Clark County celebrated the 39th anniversary of the deal brokered by James McMillan which led to the desegregation of Las Vegas hotels and casinos; and
Whereas, In addition to numerous stints as President of the Las Vegas chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Dr. McMillan served as a member of the Clark County School Board from 1992 to 1996, was founder of the Las Vegas Human Rights Commission, was the first black to serve on the State Democratic Central Committee, was appointed to the Board of Dental Examiners of Nevada in 1971 by former Governor Mike O’Callaghan, served as past President of the Nevada Black Chamber of Commerce, was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and had an elementary school named in his honor in northwest Las Vegas; and
Whereas, This “champion of the underdog,” in addition to his passion for the civil rights movement, was an active lobbyist for more equal representation of minorities in Clark County government and an advocate for better treatment, housing and transportation for seniors, worked to register blacks to vote and was instrumental in getting several schools built in west Las Vegas; and
Whereas, Last year, Dr. McMillan’s autobiography, Fighting Back: A Life in the Struggle for Civil Rights was released; and
Whereas, The passing of this civil rights pioneer on March 20, 1999, left behind a city whose racial outlook has changed dramatically, in large part through Dr. McMillan’s own stubborn, courageous efforts; and
Whereas, Dr. McMillan is survived by his beloved wife, Marie, daughter, Jarmilla Arnold of Las Vegas, four sons, James B. McMillan III, Chris Bramley and Jeffrey McMillan, all of Las Vegas, and Jack Daly of Sedro Woolley, Washington, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That the members of the 70th session of the Nevada Legislature convey their sympathies and condolences to Dr. James McMillan’s wife, Marie, and his children; and be it further
Resolved, That Dr. James McMillan will long be remembered for his commitment to the struggle for civil rights and racial equality; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Dr. McMillan’s loving wife, Marie.
Assemblyman Williams moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Assemblymen Williams, Giunchigliani, Ohrenschall and Price.
Assemblyman Perkins requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Assemblyman Williams:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I had the opportunity, which was one of the highlights of my life, to meet Dr. James B. McMillan some time ago, upon moving to Las Vegas. One of the things he said to me that I remember is, “For every man who lives without freedom, the rest of us must face that guilt.” Dr. McMillan had such an unrelentless drive to make people’s lives better. He had undaunted courage to stand up and strive for the under-served and those who were ignored in American society.
If you look at some of the negative aspects and experiences which confronted Dr. McMillan during his life, you would almost have to wonder why he dedicated his entire life to do so muchfor others. As a small boy growing up in Mississippi, he witnessed his mother being taken away from their home, taken into town, stripped down to her waist and beaten by the KKK. After deciding to attend the University of Michigan on a football scholarship, he left because he was assigned living quarters that were inferior to those that were assigned to the white athletes. While in the United States military, after making the rank of lieutenant, Dr. McMillan saw that the German prisoners of war were treated better than his fellow black soldiers—just another obstacle he and other black soldiers had to confront.
After moving to Las Vegas and finishing dental school, in 1954, he experienced a long delay before he was issued his license. This was after he had scored one of the highest marks on a dental exam by the Nevada Board of Dental Examiners. He was later told by Dr. Quannah McCall that the reason his license was delayed for so long was because if they issued the license he would be the first black to receive a license in dentistry in Nevada. Although he went through these things in life he still strived to help other people. In 1971, former Governor Michael O’Callaghan appointed Dr. McMillan to the Board of Dental Examiners—the same board that delayed his license some 20 years previously. One of the highlights I think we have to remember in Nevada, is that Dr. McMillan teamed up with Grant Sawyer, Hank Greenspun and others, and brokered a deal inside the Moulin Rouge Hotel in Las Vegas that desegregated the living quarters and the Strip in Las Vegas. This led to the prospering that we see in Las Vegas today.
Mr. Speaker, I have no doubt that had it not been for the courage of Dr. James B. McMillan, I would not be standing here today in these honorable Chambers. Had it not been for Dr. McMillan, this great Nevadan, life in this great state might not be as enjoyable for many people as it is today. It is with honor and pleasure that I urge my colleagues to adopt this resolution.
Assemblywoman Giunchigliani:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, rise in support of ACR 49. If I may, “Doc”, how I fondly knew him, was a gentleman, always a gentleman. He had a quiet, very forceful strength, one that I wish I could adopt from time to time. As Mr. Williams said, I think he had an absolute commitment and belief in people, freedom, and civil rights. It was never what was right for him, but what was right for everybody. He taught me so much. I had the privilege of working with him as a teacher, partially during his wonderful years as a school board member, which I think he enjoyed immensely. He contributed so much to our community. Thank you for sharing him with us. Over the years, I know what kind of commitment public service takes. He was a wonderful human being and I appreciate having known him.
Assemblywoman Ohrenschall:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, rise in support of this resolution. I represented Dr. McMillan when, as president of the NAACP, he joined in a class action suit against the Clark County Commissioners who were attempting to change the method of election of commissioners back to the old “at large” method. Had that succeeded, the African-American community would have been effectively deprived of a seat on the Clark County Commission. Even though, by that time, Dr. McMillan was established in the community and there were obviously many subtle business reprisals which could have been feared, and in fact, did occur, he did not hesitate to lead the fight. He was truly an inspiration. Thank you.
Assemblyman Price:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I had the pleasure and honor of working with Jim, or I should say Dr. McMillan, over the years on a number of projects. I think citizens, who come to Las Vegas today and over the last few years, would never imagine how bad it really was back in the ‘50s when Dr. McMillan started his wonderful work. He did work for years and years, continuously. I was fortunate enough to serve on several committees and operations, including the Democratic Party, with him. He was a wonderful, wonderful person. I can tell you that our city is a lot better today than it was then. I would not say everything is perfect, but it is 99 percent better than it was when he first started his work. I am so pleased that we are honoring him today, although it is for a sad occasion. He was a wonderful Nevadan and a great Las Vegan. I am so glad we are doing this resolution in his memory.
Resolution adopted unanimously.
Assemblyman Williams moved that all rules be suspended and that Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 49 be immediately transmitted to the Senate.
Motion carried unanimously.
By Assemblymen Giunchigliani, Anderson, Angle, Arberry, Bache, Beers, Berman, Brower, Buckley, Carpenter, Cegavske, Chowning, Claborn, Collins, de Braga, Dini, Evans, Freeman, Gibbons, Goldwater, Gustavson, Hettrick, Humke, Koivisto, Lee, Leslie, Manendo, Marvel, McClain, Mortenson, Neighbors, Nolan, Ohrenschall, Parks, Parnell, Perkins, Price, Segerblom, Thomas, Tiffany, Von Tobel and Williams; Senators Wiener, Amodei, Care, Carlton, Coffin, Jacobsen, James, Mathews, McGinness, Neal, O'Connell, O'Donnell, Porter, Raggio, Rawson, Rhoads, Schneider, Shaffer, Titus, Townsend and Washington:
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 50—Memorializing former Speaker of the Assembly, Berkeley L. Bunker.
Whereas, The members of the Nevada Legislature note with profound sorrow the passing of native Nevadan and former Assemblyman Berkeley L. Bunker on January 21, 1999; and
Whereas, The story of this native Nevadan began on August 12, 1906, on a farm in the Moapa Valley hamlet of St. Thomas, where Berkeley Bunker was born one of the 10 children of Martin and Helen Bunker, pioneers who settled in St. Thomas in 1877; and
Whereas, In the 1920s, the Bunker family relocated to Las Vegas, a railroad town with a population of just a few thousand whose future excited Berkeley Bunker as he envisioned the possibilities which he would spend most of his life helping to make reality; and
Whereas, After graduation from Las Vegas High School and time spent as a missionary for his church, Berkeley Bunker married his high school sweetheart, Lucille Whitehead, who was his partner for the next 55 years until her death in 1988; and
Whereas, Berkeley Bunker later married Della Lee, a long-time friend and native of Panaca; and
Whereas, Berkeley Bunker was elected to the Nevada Assembly in 1936, 1938 and 1940, serving as Speaker of the Assembly during his second term and also as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee; and
Whereas, Before serving his third term as Assemblyman, Berkeley Bunker was appointed by Governor E. P. Carville to complete the term of United States Senator Key Pittman; and
Whereas, In 1944, Berkeley Bunker won the only Nevada seat in the United States House of Representatives; and
Whereas, After his career in politics, Berkeley Bunker, who did not believe in retirement, continued as co-owner of Bunker Brothers Mortuary and then as a bankruptcy trustee; and
Whereas, Berkeley Bunker’s commitment to the community is evidenced by his membership and service in numerous organizations such as the Kiwanas Club, Rotary Club, Boy Scouts of America, American Red Cross and American Cancer Society, as well as being past President of the Las Vegas YMCA and national President of the Order of the Golden Rule; and
Whereas, Berkeley Bunker is survived by his beloved wife Della, his daughters, Loretta Derrick and Ann Harris, his stepson, Dr. James Lee Richards, his stepdaughter, Sharla Humphrey, his sister, Ann Shipley, as well as 22 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That the members of the 70th Session of the Nevada Legislature express their heartfelt sympathy and sincere condolences to the family and friends of former Assemblyman Berkeley Bunker; and be it further
Resolved, That Berkeley Bunker will long be remembered with the highest regard for his integrity, sense of humor and positive outlook as well as the rich legacy of his service to the community of Las Vegas and to the State of Nevada; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Berkeley Bunker’s family.
Assemblywoman Giunchigliani moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Assemblymen Giunchigliani, Perkins and Ohrenschall.
Assemblyman Perkins requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Assemblywoman Giunchigliani:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps the most significant fact of this resolution is that Berkeley Bunker was not, as most of us would be, content to rest after years of his distinguished service. Lesser men would have retired to a life of ease and comfort. Yet, Berkeley Bunker continued to serve as an adviser, mentor and guide to many of us. His counsel was always wise, his advice to the point, and his commitment to his family, his community and to his God was unwaivering.
In a time of sound bites based on polling, Berkeley Bunker never would have bent to the pressure of the moment. He showed throughout his life that public life, public service, could be conducted with reasonable ideas and quiet dignity. For that, and for the guidance he gave, he will be sorely missed by me and by the many who drew from his strength.
Berkeley Bunker happened to have been my neighbor and Della, his wife, asked me to accept this on behalf of the family so that when I go home this weekend I can deliver it to her. Richard Bunker was, unfortunately, not able to be here today.
I would stop by, and seek his counsel from time to time after he suffered, unfortunately, an amputation. He still provided counsel to the members of his church any time they wanted it. He was just a wonderful person and gave a great deal to his community. He was a good family man and I just wanted to give that little background about Berkeley. The family is very, very appreciative and Della wanted me to convey that to the body for having this resolution today. Thank you.
Assemblyman Perkins:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, rise in support of ACR 50. It never ceases to amaze me about this pioneer state, particularly during the time Berkeley Bunker served when it truly was a pioneer state. How could all this be accomplished by one person? How could you be elected three times to the State Assembly, serve as Speaker, get appointed to the United States Senate, go on to run successfully for the House of Representatives and still be there for your family, and for your faith? This speaks volumes of who we are as a state.
Every time I see accomplishments and activities like this, it truly humbles me to participate in this process and to think of those who came before us, and through their efforts accomplishedmuch more than I could ever dream of accomplishing. I think we can all be proud of the accomplishments of Berkeley Bunker and be happy for the things we have today, that occurred on behalf of his efforts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Assemblywoman Ohrenschall:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, rise in support of this resolution. Berkeley Bunker was an acquaintance, but more than an acquaintance—he was a friend. It’s unusual, but today we are honoring three giants of Nevada history and I’ve had the honor and pleasure of working with all three of them, of knowing them and being influenced by them. I met Berkeley Bunker when I was still very new to Las Vegas, many years ago. He was always there to provide help and assistance within the community; to take time to bring my son James up on Nevada history and to take him and show him all the different sites. But more than that, he was a bankruptcy trustee. When you met him in his office you had no idea you were talking to a former United States Senator and Congressman, or Speaker of the Assembly. He was a very simple man. He took the time, even though he wasn’t a lawyer. He knew more bankruptcy law than, well, most of the bankruptcy bar in southern Nevada. I truly felt that he was my bankruptcy law mentor. He was always there, he always had a kind word. No question was too small for him to take the time to answer. He brought you the idea, the spirit of what bankruptcy law was about and how it could be used to help people. That, I think, sums it up. Berkeley Bunker spent his life helping people. I know that God will have judged him to be what the Bible calls “a righteous man.” Thank you.
Assemblywoman Giunchigliani:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. One point I did forget to make is that when Berkley passed away, it was on the evening that the school was being dedicated in his name and I think that was one of his proudest moments. I forgot that Della had asked me to put that on the record. Quietly, unbeknownst to him, I’d gone around the neighborhood and got a petition signed to ask the school board to go ahead and consider that. Della wound up giving the remarks that night at the school dedication. I know that it was one of his proudest moments, to have that kind of legacy. He truly was a contributor to the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Resolution adopted unanimously.
Assemblywoman Giunchigliani moved that all rules be suspended and that Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 50 be immediately transmitted to the Senate.
Motion carried unanimously.
By Assemblymen Von Tobel, Carpenter, Anderson, Angle, Arberry, Bache, Beers, Berman, Brower, Buckley, Cegavske, Chowning, Claborn, Collins, de Braga, Dini, Evans, Freeman, Gibbons, Giunchigliani, Goldwater, Gustavson, Hettrick, Humke, Koivisto, Lee, Leslie, Manendo, Marvel, McClain, Mortenson, Neighbors, Nolan, Ohrenschall, Parks, Parnell, Perkins, Price, Segerblom, Thomas, Tiffany and Williams; Senators Porter, Amodei, Care, Carlton, Coffin, Jacobsen, James, Mathews, McGinness, Neal, O'Connell, O'Donnell, Raggio, Rawson, Rhoads, Schneider, Shaffer, Titus, Townsend, Washington and Wiener:
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 51—Commending Nevada’s top two youth volunteers named by the National Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for 1998.
Whereas, The Prudential Insurance Company of America, in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, sponsors the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards; and
Whereas, The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards are designed to recognize young people between the ages of 11 and 18 years who have demonstrated exemplary, self-initiated community service; and
Whereas, Nominees are chosen each fall from more than 35,000 public and private middle-level and high schools throughout the United States, local honorees are selected from these nominees and, from these winners, two persons are chosen in each state; and
Whereas, Nevada’s top two youth volunteers for 1998, Jamie McAdoo and Jesse Waite, were selected from a list of distinguished nominees; and
Whereas, Jamie McAdoo, 18 years, of Elko High School in Elko was chosen for her commitment to tutoring a young autistic boy for the past 6 years and due in part to her work with this boy, she aspires to be a special education teacher; and
Whereas, Jesse Waite, 15 years, of W. Mack Lyon Middle School in Overton was chosen for designing and organizing a landscaping project to beautify an empty lot at a local elementary school; and
Whereas, He organized volunteers, solicited donations and, overcoming some weighty obstacles, his patience and determination enabled him to see the project to completion
; and
Whereas, These young people exemplify the spirit of the community that is so important to the future of our cities, towns and neighborhoods; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That Jamie McAdoo and Jesse Waite, Nevada’s top winners of the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, are hereby commended for their role in enhancing the lives of others and making their communities better places to live through community service; and be it further
Resolved, That the residents of the State of Nevada are urged to take inspiration from these young people and follow their example by becoming involved in community service; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit copies of this resolution to Jamie McAdoo and Jesse Waite.
Assemblywoman Von Tobel moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Assemblywoman Von Tobel.
Assemblyman Perkins requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Assemblywoman Von Tobel:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Jesse Waite is the son of Herb and Pamela Sue Waite, of Logandale, Nevada. He is 15 years old and a freshman at Moapa Valley High School with a 4.0 grade point average. He’s involved in sports programs offered at the high school, mainly football, basketball and baseball. In September of 1997 while attending Nat Cline Middle School he was actively looking for a worthwhile Eagle Scout project. He is a member of the National Junior Honor Society Chapter at the middle school, which encourages those students in doing acts of service for both community, school and churches in this area.
Jesse noted there was a need at the elementary school for something to be done with a vacant lot that sat on school grounds next to the playground area. It was an eyesore to those driving by the school and during those seasons where the wind gusts were heavy, the children would get sand-whipped by the wind. He went to work. He designed and landscaped a lot which measured 80 feet by 60 feet. He recruited various businesses, the Clark County School District, fellow scouts, family and friends in the community to donate supplies, money and time in the project. They dug trenches and laid piping for a watering system; leveled the ground; and planted flowers, trees and lined the lot in decorative rock. He received his honor as Eagle Scout in March of 1998 for his project. While seeing the project take shape, Jesse’s Honor Society advisor submitted his project to the National Association of Secondary School Principals and in May of 1998, he was awarded the Prudential Spirit of Community Award at the middle school level and represented the State of Nevada in Washington, D.C.
While talking to the Waite family, I found out that while he was back in Washington D.C.,Jesse was able to see Representative Jim Gibbons and was very much honored. My colleague who sits in front of me has given toys from her toyshop to the Waite children, who are here today. It has been a real honor for them to be here today.
Resolution adopted unanimously.
Assemblywoman Von Tobel moved that all rules be suspended and that Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 51 be immediately transmitted to the Senate.
Motion carried unanimously.
By Assemblyman Lee:
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 52—Memorializing the former Mayor of the City of North Las Vegas, James Kent Seastrand.
Whereas, Nevadans were deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Seastrand on November 2, 1997; and
Whereas, James “Jim” Kent Seastrand was born in American Fork, Utah, on June 24, 1929; and
Whereas, Following his graduation from American Fork High School, Jim Seastrand attended L.D.S. Business College in Salt Lake City, Utah, and graduated in 1954 from Brigham Young University, earning a degree in marketing and business administration; and
Whereas, After serving as an officer and Mormon Chaplain in the United States Air Force during the Korean War and attaining the rank of captain, Jim Seastrand began a successful career in business as the owner and President of Vegas Village Shopping Corporation, and earned the trust of many in his community; and
Whereas, His unquestioned integrity led to his appointment to fill a vacancy on the North Las Vegas City Council in 1973 when North Las Vegas was a relatively nondescript city in the shadows of Las Vegas; and
Whereas, After serving on the North Las Vegas City Council for 6 1/2 years, Jim Seastrand was elected Mayor, and served the city for 16 years in that office; and
Whereas, Under the diplomatic leadership of Jim Seastrand, the downtown area of North Las Vegas was revitalized by the initiation of an ambitious redevelopment program and the vast northern valley was opened up for the development of planned communities; and
Whereas, Mayor Seastrand used his training in management and business as a force in stabilizing the resulting growth of the city as it doubled its population during his 22 1/2 years of public service; and
Whereas, As Mayor, Jim Seastrand strove to represent all of the residents in the community and helped initiate programs such as “Make a Difference Day” which put city employees into the community for service work; and
Whereas, Jim Seastrand helped bring his city out of the shadows of Las Vegas and give the community its own identity and positive image; and
Whereas, Because of his many accomplishments and contributions to his community and this state, Jim Seastrand was honored in 1990 as “Nevada Public Official of the Year”; and
Whereas, In his capacity as a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Jim Seastrand served as a Bishop, a Regional Representative of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a District President in the British Mission, President of the North Las Vegas Stake and Mission Leader for his ward, and Chairman of the Las Vegas Temple Building Committee, and he authored the religious book Journey to Eternal Life and Distractions Along the Way; and
Whereas, Jim Seastrand was further involved in his community as Chairman of the Nellis Air Force Base Civilian Military Council, as a member of the Nevada Development Authority Executive Board and as a Board Member of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority; and
Whereas, Jim Seastrand received the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America in recognition of his contributions to the young people of that organization, including his persistent encouragement to all young people to get involved in politics so that they could make a difference in the world; and
Whereas, In 1996, while serving as the Chairman of the Lake Mead Hospital Medical Center, Jim Seastrand was presented with the commendation of “Trustee of Excellence” for his contributions to that organization; and
Whereas, Jim Seastrand received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from National University and an Honorary Associate’s Degree from Clark County Community College for his efforts in the field of education; and
Whereas, In 1997, Jim Seastrand was presented with the illustrious Emeritus Special Recognition Award by his alma mater for his community service as a businessman and public official; and
Whereas, The “Jim Seastrand Helping Hands of North Las Vegas” volunteer organization was formed by the members of the Nevada Commission on Aging to aid disabled, elderly and frail persons, in tribute to his work in that field and his recent service as a member of the Commission; and
Whereas, Jim Seastrand is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Rosel, his daughter, Pamela Shelline of St. George, Utah, his sons, Scott, Douglas and Russell Seastrand, all of Las Vegas, and 15 grandchildren; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That the members of the 70th session of the Nevada Legislature offer their sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of James “Jim” Seastrand, a man who left a legacy of public service, leading by example and unselfish sharing with his family, his church, his community and his state; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Jim Seastrand’s beloved wife, Rosel.
Assemblyman Lee moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Assemblymen Lee, Chowning, Ohrenschall, Williams and Price.
Assemblyman Perkins requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Assemblyman Lee:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. About 25 years ago I had the fortunate opportunity to date probably the prettiest girl I had ever met in my life. Being smart enough to realize that she could take something and make something out of me, I decided to hang around and see if she would marry me. The week I turned 19 we got married and started our young family. Through that marriage I became associated with some wonderful people called relatives. On her side of the family I met a gentleman named “Uncle Jim.” Jim Seastrand, at that time, had been the mayor of North Las Vegas and city councilman for quite a period of time. His daughter and I had gone to school together. She was a wonderful girl so I knew the man must be a good guy. From that point in time, Uncle Jim became my Uncle Jim. I’ve been able to stand back and politely clap for all the accomplishments that Jim Seastrand has done in his life. The achievements, the undertakings that almost seemed impossible, the energy this man expended to get things accomplished.
Jim spent six and a half years on the city council and after that he spent 16 years as the mayor of North Las Vegas. I think that’s probably near a record. Uncle Jim loved his Father in Heaven very much and served wherever he was asked to serve. He never turned down a calling and was always there to help other people in their responsibilities in my church. His family was the most paramount thing in his life. Working with his boys, building businesses together with them, taking family vacations. I don’t think Uncle Jim did anything that did not involve all his children.
Jim loved his community. North Las Vegas, was, for years, kind of a bedroom city of Las Vegas. When Jim Seastrand became mayor, it started to blossom and started to grow. Westarted to get some pride. North Las Vegas, in his tenure, probably tripled in size. Jim Seastrand worked with a lot of good people on the city council, people that he reached out to in the community and helped to get elected. With them, he built this great community called North Las Vegas. The last thing that Jim Seastrand worried about was himself. I don’t ever recall talking to Jim Seastrand about anything he wanted. It was always for his family, his church, or for his community.
Mr. Speaker, there are men like you in this world who love their communities. I don’t know if you are aware how much your communities love you. Jim Seastrand was very much admired and loved in his community. The day he decided not to run for mayor, the city didn’t know what to do. They had to actually go out and find someone to take his position. It was just assumed that as long as Jim wanted to be mayor, he’d be mayor of North Las Vegas. Jim worked a lot with the Boy Scout organization—I know there are a few Scouts here. Jim was a Silver Beaver recipient and spent hours and hours working with the scouting program.
As a youth I spent a lot of time at the Boys Club. Jim was a supporter of the Boys Club in North Las Vegas. The youth of our town were always remembered when the city council had to make tough decisions. It wasn’t “let’s send more police out to get these guys,” it was “how can we make this a better community for the youth.”
Jim was Nevada’s Public Official of the Year. I don’t know if anyone I’ve ever met has had that distinction before. I think that is a distinction that is shared by very few people. That just tells you the candor, the openness and the honesty of this man and how approachable he was to good ideas to make Nevada a better place. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Assemblywoman Chowning:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I stand in support of ACR 52. Way back when, quite a few years ago, it was with Mayor Seastrand’s recommendation that I was appointed to serve on the City of North Las Vegas’ Planning Commission. That was before we had the new North Las Vegas. I proudly served in that capacity and I always, and to this day, appreciate that appointment and I appreciate his commitment to continue to revitalize the original North Las Vegas as well as his commitment for the development of planned communities. We did not have plannedcommunities in North Las Vegas before that. My heartfelt wishes go out to his lovely, dedicated, gracious wife, Rosel, whom he did cherish so much. Thank you.
Assemblywoman Ohrenschall:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Jim Seastrand initiated the “Make a Difference Day.” He lived it. He made a difference. In addition to all the public enterprises that I had the honor of working on with him, Jim also took the time to advise me and my children in the course of doing genealogical research for the family. My most recent memories of Jim are with his wife Rosel. On many, many campaign trails she was always there with him, the support quietly there to watch over everything—to make sure everything happened as it should. They were a wonderful team together. Rosel also has made a difference. I wish to salute her too, today. Thank you.
Assemblyman Williams:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to stand in support of ACR 52. I remember the first time I got elected, I got a call from Mayor Seastrand. At that time, I had two blocks of North Las Vegas located in my district—only two blocks. I always joked about that with him. He would always call me in and say, “Let me give you the whole spiel of the North Las Vegas plan and what we are trying to do.” I would say, “Mayor, it’s only two blocks.” He would then say, “Yes, but every block and every person who lives in North Las Vegas is important.” From that day on, I had the pleasure of working on a lot of proposals collectively with the mayor that was a collaboration with Las Vegas and North Las Vegas. He was always above board and always pleasing to work with. I would urge my colleagues to adopt this resolution.
Assemblyman Price:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, to this Honorable Body. I have to admit that I did not realize we were going to be honoring Jim today. This is wonderful. He was one of the most special people. We were neighbors for many years. As most of you know, I have been in North Las Vegas for about 42 years. When we first met, and Jim got elected to the city council and started working, it was obvious from day one that he was a wonderful business person and honest. I have to tell you, when he opened Vegas Village, which was the first super-store, so to speak, in North Las Vegas or Las Vegas, it was an event. It was the first really big store. I think most of us thought he was out of his mind for building this giant store down there. It turned out to be a wonderful addition to our city. I believe it was successful for the years that he ran it. He brought North Las Vegas, as has been said today, from just a neighborhood to the north, with no reputation of anything, up to a wonderful city of its own and growing. Jim has been sorely missed by many people beyond his loving family. I am so pleased to be able to be participating and voting on a resolution to honor Jim. He was a wonderful, wonderful person. We thank the family for being here.
Resolution adopted unanimously.
Assemblyman Lee moved that all rules be suspended and that Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 52 be immediately transmitted to the Senate.
Motion carried unanimously.
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES
Assemblyman Bache moved that Senate Bill No. 111 be taken from the General File and placed on the Chief Clerk's desk.
Remarks by Assemblyman Bache.
Motion carried.
Assemblywoman Buckley moved that Senate Bill No. 153 be taken from the General File and placed on the Chief Clerk's desk.
Remarks by Assemblywoman Buckley.
Motion carried.
Assemblywoman Buckley stated objection to inclusion of Senate Bill No. 24 on the Consent Calendar.
Senate Bill No. 24 placed on the Second Reading File.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Senate Bills Nos. 7, 99, 100.
Bills read by number.
Potential conflict of interest declared by Assemblyman Price on Senate Bill No. 99.
Roll call on Senate Bills Nos. 7, 99, 100:
Yeas—36.
Nays—None.
Excused—Arberry, Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom, Williams—6.
Senate Bills Nos. 7, 99 and 100 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared them passed.
Bills ordered transmitted to the Senate.
SECOND READING AND AMENDMENT
Assembly Bill No. 344.
Bill read second time.
The following amendment was proposed by the Committee on Ways and Means:
Amendment No. 712.
Amend section 1, page 1, line 3, by deleting “$12,000” and inserting “$13,764”.
Assemblyman Arberry moved the adoption of the amendment.
Remarks by Assemblyman Arberry.
Amendment adopted.
Bill ordered reprinted, engrossed and to third reading.
Senate Bill No. 352.
Bill read second time and ordered to third reading.
Senate Bill No. 499.
Bill read second time.
The following amendment was proposed by the Committee on Government Affairs:
Amendment No. 710.
Amend section 1, page 2, lines 29 and 30, by deleting “biweekly. [7.]” and inserting:
“biweekly [.
7.] except those eligible employees who are approved for overtime in excess of one scheduled shift of 8 or more hours per day.”.
Assemblyman Bache moved the adoption of the amendment.
Remarks by Assemblyman Bache.
Amendment adopted.
Bill ordered reprinted, engrossed and to third reading.
Senate Bill No. 24.
Bill read second time and ordered to third reading.
general file and third reading
Senate Bill No. 183.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Assemblyman Bache.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 183:
Yeas—37.
Nays—Giunchigliani.
Excused—Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom—4.
Senate Bill No. 183 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared it passed.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Senate.
Senate Bill No. 238.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Assemblyman Goldwater.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 238:
Yeas—38.
Nays—None.
Excused—Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom—4.
Senate Bill No. 238 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared it passed.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Senate.
Senate Bill No. 326.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Assemblyman Brower.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 326:
Yeas—38.
Nays—None.
Excused—Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom—4.
Senate Bill No. 326 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Senate.
Senate Bill No. 494.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Assemblyman Goldwater.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 494:
Yeas—38.
Nays—None.
Excused—Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom—4.
Senate Bill No. 494 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared it passed.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Senate.
Senate Bill No. 532.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Assemblymen Bache and Goldwater.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 532:
Yeas—38.
Nays—None.
Excused—Carpenter, Collins, Nolan, Segerblom—4.
Senate Bill No. 532 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. Speaker declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Senate.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Signing of Bills and Resolutions
There being no objections, the Speaker and Chief Clerk signed Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 47; Assembly Resolution No. 6; Senate Bills Nos. 146, 232, 347, 361.
GUESTS EXTENDED PRIVILEGE OF ASSEMBLY FLOOR
On request of Assemblyman Anderson, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Darcy Shepard, Rusty Shepard, Jim Shepard, Cindy Shepard, Justin Holstone, Aurora Partridge, Melody Partridge and Leona C. Wright.
On request of Assemblyman Beers, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Jean Wright and Barbara Teal.
On request of Assemblyman de Braga, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Adam Ash, Emily Christoph, Lindsay Christoph, Teddy Christoph, Stanley Davis, Jennifer Gunch, Jayna Hill, Colby Johnson, Larissa Johnson, José Karry, Johnnie Miller, Alyissa Reedy, Corrin Reedy, Marie Reedy, Jennifer Thomas, Brittany James, Kathy Melendy, Claritza Karry, Devin James, Colleen Thompson and Pam Johnson.
On request of Assemblyman Dini, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Tenille Smith, Dan Smith, Shawna Smith, Glen Smith, Barbara Smith, Pat Gable, Eunice Damron, Joyce Austin, Maxine Hansen, Christine Neubaum, Mary Boatwright, Mildred Shattuck, Mildred Matheus and Shirley Fielding.
On request of Assemblyman Lee, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Rosel Seastrand, Russ Seastrand, Douglas Seastrand and Margaret Seastrand.
On request of Assemblywoman Leslie, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Gina Jackson.
On request of Assemblywoman Von Tobel, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Herb Waite, Pamela Sue Waite, Lyndsey Waite and Jesse Waite.
On request of Assemblyman Williams, the privilege of the floor of the Assembly Chamber for this day was extended to Marie McMillan, Jeffrey McMillan and Dr. Tom King.
Assemblyman Perkins moved that the Assembly adjourn until Monday, April 26, 1999, at 10:30 a.m.
Motion carried.
Assembly adjourned at 12:14 p.m.
Approved: Joseph E. Dini, Jr.
Attest: Jacqueline Sneddon