Keystone to host power lunch on Vegas’ sports boom and business wins

By Kelly Chapman

Nevada News and Views

Las Vegas isn’t just about bright lights and blackjack anymore.

According to Keystone Corporation’s upcoming 2025 Annual Luncheon, it’s about time we start calling it what it’s becoming: America’s next sports capital.

On Thursday, August 21, at the Dragon Ridge Country Club in Henderson, Keystone will host a luncheon titled “Built to Win: Vegas’ Rise as a Sports Capital.”

This isn’t your typical rubber-chicken political fundraiser.

It’s a deep dive into how the business of sports is reshaping the region — with major league teams, national TV events, and private investment all driving an economic and cultural shift that conservatives should be paying attention to.

Sports Meets Free Enterprise

Moderated by John Saccenti, Executive Director of ESPN Events, the panel features John Penhollow, President of the Vegas Golden Knights, and Marc Badain, President of the Athletics.

These are not just talking heads. They’re the folks calling the shots for billion-dollar operations that now call Southern Nevada home.

It’s no accident that this growth happened under a business-friendly climate.

Nevada’s low taxes, strong tourism infrastructure, and relatively light regulatory touch made it the perfect landing spot for teams looking to expand or relocate.

That’s not just good luck — that’s good policy.

From Desert to Dynasty

Not long ago, the idea of Las Vegas hosting multiple major league franchises was laughable. But in recent years, it’s gone from zero to full throttle.

The Golden Knights took the city by storm and made it to the Stanley Cup Final in their first year.

The Raiders moved from Oakland and brought NFL Sundays to the Strip.

Formula 1 now races through down the Strip.

The Super Bowl? Vegas just hosted it.

The Final Four is coming.

Even baseball’s Athletics are packing their bags.

This explosion didn’t come from government central planning.

It came from private investment and community support — the kind of growth that happens when the government gets out of the way and lets winners win.

Business Wins, Too

It’s not just about fans in seats. It’s jobs. It’s hospitality. It’s infrastructure.

As Vegas cements its sports legacy, hotels fill, restaurants boom, and new careers emerge — from ticketing and tech to construction and content.

That’s the core message Keystone’s bringing to the luncheon: economic growth through enterprise.

The event is designed for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to understand how Vegas’ sports surge is shaping everything from real estate to regional branding.

Whether you’re in construction, media, finance, or food service, the rise of pro sports means opportunity.

A Conservative Case for Pro Sports

Here’s the deal: Vegas’ rise happened because the city made itself attractive to business.

This luncheon is more than just a networking event — it’s a reminder that conservative principles work.

Keep taxes low, cut red tape, let private investors lead, and people will show up. With jerseys on.

In the end, it’s not just Vegas that’s “Built to Win.” It’s the model — and message — behind the boom.

If you want a front-row seat to the conversation…

—Keystone Members can grab a ticket for $125, and even bring a guest at the same rate.

—Young Professionals (ages 21—35) get a discounted rate of $100.

—Nonmembers pay $150, or $1,500 for a full table of 10.

—Want your business name on the signage? Sponsorships start at $2,500, including premium seating and verbal recognition during the program.

More info and registration details are available at KeystoneNevada.com.

Event Details Recap:

—What: Keystone Annual Luncheon — Built to Win: Vegas’ Rise as a Sports Capital

—When: Thursday, August 21, 2025 | 11:15 AM — 1:30 PM

—Where: DragonRidge Country Club, Henderson, NV

—Who: Moderated by John Saccenti (ESPN), with John Penhollow (VGK) & Marc Badain (Athletics)

—Tickets: $100—$150 (Member discounts and sponsorships available)

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Kelly Chapman is the executive director of the Nevada Business Alliance, a candidate for Nevada Assembly District 8, and a 46-year resident of Las Vegas. You can reach her at NevadaBizAlliance@gmail.com or (702) 483-0186. You can follow her on Twitter/X here: @Chapman4Nevada.