COUNCILMAN RICHARD J. CHERCHIO
PRESIDENT AND CO-FOUNDER
Early Life and Education: Richard J. Cherchio was born and raised in South Brooklyn, New York. He attended Saint John’s Elementary School and graduated from John Jay High School in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Cherchio’s formative years in Brooklyn laid the foundation for his strong sense of community and civic responsibility.
Relocation to Nevada: In September 2001, Richard Cherchio, accompanied by his wife Gloria, made the pivotal decision to move to the City of North Las Vegas. This relocation marked the beginning of their enduring connection with the community.
Civic Involvement and Advocacy: Cherchio’s civic engagement in North Las Vegas commenced shortly after his arrival. Following the events of 9/11, he encountered resistance from his homeowners association when seeking approval to fly the American flag on his property. This challenge inspired him to become a community advocate, not only for himself but for his neighbors as well. Cherchio successfully advocated for the right to fly the American flag in all communities, solidifying his reputation as an effective and dedicated community leader.
City Council Tenure: Elected on April 7, 2015, Councilman Cherchio is currently serving his third term representing the residents of Ward 4 on the North Las Vegas City Council. His commitment to public service is further exemplified by a prior appointment to the City Council from 2009 to 2011.
Boards and Committees: Councilman Cherchio actively participates in various boards and committees, including the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition, Nellis AFB Civilian Military Board, City of North Las Vegas Legislative Affairs Committee, Debt Management Commission, and Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority. His multifaceted involvement demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs and concerns of the community.
Founder and Chair of Armed Forces Military, and Veterans Appreciation Inc.: In 2014, Cherchio took on the role of founder and chair of the “Armed Forces Military, and Veterans Appreciation Inc.,” a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting military members, their families, veterans, and first responders. The organization’s initiatives include providing assistance to military families, veterans, and first responders, as well as spreading Christmas cheer to these deserving individuals.
Personal Life: Richard J. Cherchio and Gloria, his wife of more than 40 years, form the cornerstone of a close-knit family. They are proud parents to Lisa and grandparents to Nicole, Allison, and Jennifer (who serves in the Army Reserves). Cherchio also revels in the joy of being a great-grandparent to Elend and Melina.
Interests and Hobbies: In his leisure time, Councilman Cherchio engages in various interests, including landscaping, stone and wood working, and traveling. These pursuits reflect a well-rounded individual dedicated not only to public service but also to personal enrichment and enjoyment.
Richard J. Cherchio’s journey from Brooklyn to North Las Vegas is characterized by a deep commitment to community, advocacy, and public service, making him a respected and influential figure in the City Council and the broader community.
LAURA COLEMAN
SECRETARY AND CO-FOUNDER
Laura moved to Las Vegas with her parents in the late 1960s. Laura became a dealer at the Poker Palace in North Las Vegas, where she met her husband, Mickey, who owned the casino. In the 1990’s Laura produced a television program focusing on positive people and businesses in North Las Vegas.
Laura has volunteered with Nathan Adelson Hospice for more than 30 years. She started as a homecare volunteer, but after the birth of her grandson, Madison, she started chairing the Wine and Food Tasting Extravaganza. Now in its 21st year, this event has raised over $1 million for programs at Nathan Adelson Hospice. Laura is also the Co-Founder of the Armed Forces Military Veterans & First Responders Appreciation Day event held in North Las Vegas. Laura and a group of volunteers host this event free of charge to all Military, Veterans and First Responders. For the past 18 years, Laura has held a monthly birthday party at the James Boys and Girls Club in North Las Vegas for school-age children who may not normally have a birthday party, complete with games, cake, and gifts.
Laura has a strong belief in doing what is right for our community.
GLORIA CHERCHIO
TREASURER
Since moving to North Las Vegas with my husband Richard in 2001, I have been actively engaged in various civic events and volunteer initiatives. I take immense pride in being a graduate and alumni member of the North Las Vegas Citizens Police Academy. My commitment to community service led me to become a Metro Police volunteer, where I underwent training in Homeland Security, FEMA, and CERT programs.
Currently, I volunteer with our North Las Vegas community services department, participating in events like National Night Out, Safe Halloween, and Shop with a Cop, which benefits underprivileged children. Additionally, I serve as a community block captain, attending quarterly meetings and ensuring effective communication among residents.
Recently, I had the honor of being appointed by the former North Las Vegas Mayor John Lee as a trustee on our Library Board. I am also an active member of the North Las Vegas Volunteer in Police Service program (VIPS). In this role, I assist our police department, patrol our residential and business areas, and engage with the community using specially modified police vehicles.
Furthermore, I have submitted my name for consideration to join a new task force initiated by our city. This task force aims to collaborate with private groups and Nellis AFB to honor our current and former military veterans by organizing annual events to celebrate their service to our country.
All these experiences reflect my unwavering commitment to supporting our community and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Attending the FBI Academy would be a privilege and honor, providing me with valuable insights into the Bureau’s positive impact on our community and nation. I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained from this experience will further empower me to serve as a voice for all that is good and beneficial in our society.
JIMMY VEGA
DIRECTOR
Jimmy has been a proud resident of Southern Nevada since 1976. Born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised with strong family values by his Latino parents, Jimmy graduated from Ed. W. Clark High School in 1985. His journey led him to serve his country in the United States Navy, where he trained as a Hospital Corpsman at Balboa Naval Hospital San Diego, Ca and as a Fleet Marine Force (FMF) Corpsman at Camp Lejeune Jacksonville, NC, serving with the United States Marine Corps. Jimmy’s service included deployment to Central Command in support of Desert Shield and Storm in 1991. After returning his enlisted ended. Following the tragic events of 9/11, he reenlisted in the Navy Reserves in October 2001, dedicating himself to the Global War on Terrorism until his retirement in 2020, achieving the esteemed rank of Chief Petty Officer.
Parallel to his military service, Jimmy served as a Nevada Peace Officer as a Deputy Constable. He also pursued a career in sales, accumulating over 28 years of experience in insurance, mortgage loans, and real estate. Currently Jimmy is a Realtor® with Platinum Real Estate Professionals.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jimmy is deeply involved in his community. He serves as a Commissioner for the North Las Vegas Veterans Community Commission and is an active member of the North Las Vegas Charter Committee. Additionally, he contributes his leadership skills as a Director for the Armed Forces, Military Veterans, and First Responders Appreciation Inc.
Jimmy’s commitment to service, both in uniform and in civilian life, reflects his dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.