[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 111 (Monday, July 11, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S4941]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS LAS VEGAS 
                                CHAPTER

  Mr. REID. Madam President, today I wish to recognize the 60th 
anniversary of the American Institute of Architects, or AIA, Las Vegas 
chapter.
  Established in 1857, the AIA works to elevate the architecture 
profession throughout the United States. In Nevada, a small group of 
architects joined together to promote a high standard of architecture 
and started the first AIA chapter in Las Vegas in 1956. At first, the 
chapters were so small that individual members took turns acting as 
president. The organization has grown into one of the leading 
professional organizations in my State, and the Las Vegas chapter 
recently elected exceptional leaders from its membership, including the 
current president, Brett Ewing, and the president-elect, Jon Sparer.
  The Las Vegas Chapter of AIA has played a distinct role in the 
expansion of Las Vegas and Clark County. With the incredible growth in 
Nevada, architects have played a key role in designing iconic 
properties on the Las Vegas Strip and housing developments throughout 
the valley. AIA members developed many of the same entertainment venues 
that accommodate tourists and provide essential jobs for Nevadans. The 
creative genius of architects was essential to transforming Las Vegas 
into the ``Entertainment Capitol of the World,'' which welcomes more 
than 50 million visitors annually.
  Members of the AIA have made a significant and positive contribution 
to the security, arts, culture, beauty, and livability of our 
community. Southern Nevada is a better place to live and work because 
of the efforts of AIA Las Vegas. I appreciate and admire the dedicated 
professionals of the AIA, and I wish them continued success for years 
to come as they design the future of Las Vegas.

                          ____________________