IN PROFILE: Steven Neal

BUSINESS: Owner Pahrump Valley Glass LLC

AGE: 56

BACKGROUND: “I’ve spent 37 years installing, repairing and cutting glass. I was a Union worker on high-rise buildings. We do residential and commercial installations here.”

FIRST JOB: “I worked in a bakery glazing doughnuts in Palmdale, Calif., when I was in high school.”

YEARS IN BUSINESS: “I’ve lived here for seven years and worked for another glass shop before opening my own two years ago. We’re members of the chamber of commerce and although I don’t have much time to get involved in the community, I do give discounts to try and help the senior citizens and veterans in the community.”

PERSONAL: “The wife and I love our home. We barbecue every day unless we go out to eat. We also enjoy riding my Harley. Our grandkids are in Reno but we love to have them visit us during the summer and over Christmas.”

BUSINESS CLIMATE:

“I like Pahrump. It has its ups and downs, but I like the community feel here. I’ve never opened my own business before the glass company but it wasn’t a problem for me. There aren’t many other glass shops here so I don’t have a lot of competition.

“The best thing people can do to help Pahrump’s economy is to keep the money local, support your local businesses.

I would rather deal with a small business here when I need something than to support the big box stores or go into Las Vegas.”