Special to the PVT An acrobatic troop performs for diners at a dinner theater performance in Beijing, China. Advertisement

When the Executive Director of the Pahrump Valley Chamber of Commerce, Kari Frilot, went to the Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) convention a couple of years ago, she happened up on an idea that is just now being implemented for Pahrump.

During a "breakout" session at the convention, Frilot joined other chamber executives to share ideas for economic growth and fund raising. One chamber in particular, located in Northern California, had teamed up with the National Hispanic Professional Organization to formulate a constructive agenda involving a trip to China.

The California chamber was charging an few extra dollars to be a part of the group tour, and utilizing that money for chamber function benefit.

Over the last two years, the idea of using the same format to benefit the local chamber has evolved from a fund raising idea into a tourist/business trip.

The tourist angle is self-explanatory, the business opportunity deserves some clarification.

"The trip is set up so that those interested in starting a business trade agreement with China are exposed to that opportunity through several tours of economic development zones and business mixers where complimentary matches can be made," said Frilot.

"This is my first trip and I'm not familiar with the dynamic until I experience it for myself."

Frilot is paying for her own trip just because she holds and interest in other cultures and wants to see it. But she said, "I'm going representing Pahrump, and will have the opportunity to gain knowledge of how to best utilize what I learn about China's possible interest in this area."

This will be a familiarization tour, said J. R. Gonzales.

Gonzales is the president of the National Hispanic Professional Organization and organizer of the trip.

Gonzales said he went on the China trip as a tourist three years ago. He was so impressed he set about making contacts until he became somewhat of a liaison for businesses in both countries. "The biggest event for business people to make contacts will be in Beijing," said Gonzales. "It will be a business mixer and the climate changes according to who comes to it."

Gonzales said that every time he goes to China he makes new contacts with different interests. He said it's his job to make introductions as he is familiar with the culture and the "players."

On the November trip, participants will see major cities, The Great Wall of China, the Pudong Economic Development Zone, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven and enjoy the beauty of China's most famous public parks.

One thing emphasized was the shopping. Gonzales said, "The ladies will love shopping for jade and pearls and silks."

There will be an orientation for those planning to go with the November group. Attendance will provide information on visas, passports, the attractions, an itinerary and how to start matching business interests with Chinese investors.

The meeting will be 9-11 a.m., Feb. 23, at the chamber office, second floor of the Nevada State Bank building on Highway 160.

For more information, call Kari Frilot, 727-5800.