Nevada COVID-19 task force led by Jim Murren provides first update

Speaking from his computer during a webinar update to the media, Murren echoed Gov. Steve Sisolak's recent sentiments that Nevada needs more protective medical equipment for nurses and doctors and more COVID-19 test kits.

Murren noted that in just one week the Task Force had already made progress in their efforts. The NV Energy Foundation donated one million dollars to nine organizations across Nevada to support those in need. Additionally, Wynn Resorts announced on Friday the procurement of 240,000 N95-equivalent CDC-approved respirator masks, 600,000 surgical masks, 500,000 pairs of medical gloves and 2,000 medical gowns. Also, MGM Resorts International has donated 100,000 surgical masks, 1,000 KN-95 masks and 800 units of goggles to the Nevada healthcare system, in addition to hundreds of thousands of pounds of meals and food to community nonprofits.

The task force also reported a growing team, announcing the following new members:

• Yvanna Cancela, Nevada State Senator
• Doug Cannon, President and CEO of NV Energy
• Alex Dixon, President of the West Region for PureStar
• Dr. Rob McBeath, MD, President of OptumCare Mountain West Region
• Steve Menzies, President of Focus Companies
• Scott Nielson, President of Nielson Consulting
• Phil Satre, Chairman of the Board of Wynn Resorts, Ltd.

The task force launched a new web site, nvc19.org, where the group says it will post updates on their efforts and successes.