This year’s theme is the 150th anniversary of the Homestead Act with events around the state.

“This special month gives us a chance to educate the need to preserve our collective heritage,” said Ron James, the state historic preservation officer.

A list of events is below. 

Clark County

May 5: Join the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, at 500 E Washington Ave, Las Vegas, NV, and the Friends of the Fort for a series of activities and displays celebrating the life of Helen J. Stewart. Historical interpreter, Dr. Linda Miller, will give a first Person glimpse into the life of Helen J. Stewart the “first Lady of Las Vegas”. The newly dedicated statue of Helen J. Stewart surrounded by artifacts of her life will be the focus of the lesson. A documentary of her life will also be shown. Afterwards participants will be given a guided tour of the site, approximately1 hour. Costs for the event are $1. For more information please contact Dr. Linda Miller at 702-492-7742 or kckidinlv@hotmail.com or Don Bolton at 702-486-3511.

May 12: Join the Lost City Museum at 721 S Moapa Valley Blvd, Overton, NV for a Native Plants Day. Visitors will be able to learn about the native plants of the Mojave Desert and how indigenous populations would have used them for food and medicine. Visitors will also be able to try samples of the native plants and dishes with the plant as a main ingredient. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The even costs $5.00 for adults and free for members and children under 18. For more information please contact Dena Sedar at 702-397-2193 or dsedar@nevadaculture.org.

May 19: Join the Lost City Museum at 721 S Moapa Valley Blvd, Overton, NV for a Kids Archaeology Day. Kids Archaeology Day will give children 13 and under an opportunity to learn about archaeology by participating in a mock excavation at the museum. The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This event is Free. Participation is limited to 16 children. Contact the museum to sign-up for this activity and for more information; please contact Dena Sedar at 702-397-2193 or dsedar@nevadaculture.org.

May 19: The city of Las Vegas is partnering with the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodge No.1468 again this year for the Helldorado Days Parade from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm in Downtown Las Vegas on Fourth St. between Gass and Ogden Avenues. The event started in 1935 and is the longest-running civic event in the history of Las Vegas. It was originally created as a means to encourage tourism to the city upon completion of the Boulder Dam. Events include a four-day pro rodeo, parade, carnival, treasure hunt for gold, whiskerino contest, golf tournament, poker tournament, art show and auction, trail ride, exhibits and food. This event is Free. For a list of other events during Helldorado Days (throughout the month of May) and more information, please visit http://www.elkshelldorado.com or contact Esther Carter at 702-229-6672 or ecarter@lasvegasnevada.gov.

May 26: Join the Lost City Museum at 721 S Moapa Valley Blvd, Overton, NV for a book signing of Nevada’s Lost City. The book, Nevada’s Lost City, which was written by the museum’s curator, is a pictorial history of the excavation of the Lost City. The event begins at 2:00 p.m. The event costs $5 for adults and is free for members and children under 18. For more information please contact Dena Sedar at 702-397-2193 or dsedar@nevadaculture.org.

Carson City

May 24: Join the Nevada State Museum at 600 N Carson St. for the Frances Humphrey Lecture series: The Civilian Conservation Corps in Nevada: From Boys to Men by Renée Corona Kolvet. Book signing 6-7 pm; lecture based upon book of the same title, 7-8 pm. The presentation will explain why the nine-year program was so rewarding in Nevada with its large federal holdings and its sparse population. The CCC was a win-win situation for all involved as it was designed to salvage two of the nation’s most threatened assets—over two million young, unmarried men on relief, and millions of acres of neglected, drought-stricken federal lands. Costs for Adults are $8/person and Free for museum members and children 17 and under. For more information please contact Deborah Stevenson, Curator of Education at 775-687-4810, ext. 237 or dstevenson@nevadaculture.org.

Churchill County

May 12 and 26: Join the Churchill County Museum in cooperation with the Stillwater Field Office of the BLM for a tour of Hidden Cave. Start at the Churchill County Museum (1050 S Maine St., Fallon, NV) which opens at 9:00 am, a video of a brief history of Hidden Cave will be shown at 9:30 am. BLM staff will be on hand to caravan to Hidden Cave (located along US Highway 50, east of Fallon) and provide a walking interpretive tour, discussing the cultural and natural resources associated with the cave and the surrounding ecosystem. The tour will leave from the Churchill County Museum no later than 10:00 am. The tour is one hour, it is approximately ½ mile to the cave (ca. 20-30 minute discussion inside the cave) and there are several stops along the way including petroglyph panels, natural resources, geology, and Picnic Cave. At Hidden Cave the tour group will enter and experience the interior of the cave including a discussion of the archaeological discoveries and past use of this phenomenal cave. The group is encouraged to continue on to see the pictographs inside of Burnt Cave. Hidden Cave Interpretive Trail brochures are available at the museum. Sturdy shoes are recommended as the trail is on a slight incline, bring your own water and dress appropriately for the weather. The event is Free. For more information please contact Peggy Viney from the Education Program at Churchill County Museum at 775-423-3677 or Susan McCabe of the BLM at 775-885-6132 or smccabe@blm.gov.

Elko County

May 5: Join the Elko County Chapter of the Nevada Archaeological Association at the Northeastern Nevada Museum (1515 Idaho St., Elko, NV) for the Archaeology Fair from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. The Activity Fair includes exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities for kids. Admission to the Fair is Free. For more information please contact Donna Murphy at 775-738-6269 or murphys@citlink.net,

Storey County

May 18 – 20: Come to the 26th Annual Comstock Historic Preservation Weekend in Virginia City, NV. The Boom to Bust days of the Comstock lode left a rich history of mining, technology, and stories of fortunes made and lost. Discover the remaining wealth from that era at these hidden gems during Preservation Weekend on the Comstock. A weekend of events including the Fourth Ward School Kickoff Party, a Children’s Comstock Chorus performance, a collection of unique-exclusive programs at different venues throughout the area, and a Free self-guided walking tour of “If This House Could Talk” where Comstock neighbors and businesses display original signs sharing choice tidbits about events contemporary or historic, personal or public that happened in their buildings. Costs vary by venue and event. For more information please contact Barbara Mackey at 775-847-0975 or director@fourthwardschool.org or check out their website for various event dates and times at www.fourthwardschool.org.

May 18:

5:30 – 7 pm – Fourth Ward School Kickoff Party

May 19:          

10 am – 5 pm – “If These Houses Could Talk” self-guided walking tour

10 am – 5 pm – Fourth Ward School Museum

10 am – 5 pm – Mackay Mansion Tour (Free Admission)

11 am – 4 pm – SMAC Historic Bed Pan Tour and Crossroads Exhibition Series (Donations Appreciated)

11 am – 4 pm – St. Mary’s in the Mountains Cathedral and Museum (Donations Appreciated)

12 – 4 pm – Piper’s Opera House tours (Free Admission)

1:30 – 2:30 pm – Children’s Comstock Chorus – “Of Mice and Mozart” a musical at the Fourth Ward School (Free Admission)

4 pm – Closing – The Return of the Crystal Bar – Celebrate the Restoration (Admission by Donation)

6 pm – Piper’s Dinner Murder Mystery Theatre (Cocktails at 6 pm, Show starts at 7 pm) – Call 775-847-0433 for tickets.

May 20:

10 am – 5 pm – “If These Houses Could Talk” self-guided walking tour

10 am – 5 pm – Mackay Mansion Tour (Free Admission)

11 am – 4 pm – SMAC Historic Bed Pan Tour and Crossroads Exhibition Series (Donations Appreciated)

11 am – 4 pm – St. Mary’s in the Mountains Cathedral and Museum (Donations Appreciated)

12 – 4 pm – Piper’s Opera House tours (Free Admission)

Washoe County

May 4: Join Kautz Environmental Consultants, Inc. at 1140 Financial Blvd, Suite 100, Reno, NV for an Educational Open House. The Open House will feature a variety of educational programs and activities, such as: Inquiry-based projects including the creating and mapping of historic artifacts for children aged 4 to 13; Interactive games and exercises for all ages; Archaeologists will demonstrate the basic principles of flint knapping and the manufacture of prehistoric stone tools; a continuously-running PowerPoint presentation showing a variety of ways GIS can be used for analytical purposes in the field of archaeology; Lecture and slide show The Style Tells the Story: Reno’s Architectural History. Meet the archaeologists and enjoy refreshments from 10 am to 4 pm. This event is Free. For more information please contact Mella Harmon at 775-829-4411 or harmon@kecnv.com.

Throughout May: The Historic Reno Preservation Society Presents Preservation Month Walking Tours throughout the Reno area. The tour costs $10 per person and is Free to HRPS members. Walks generally last from 1 ½ to 2 hours. No dogs please. Reservations are required and space is limited.  Please contact Cindy Ainsworth at 775-747-4478 or go to www.historicreno.org for more information and reservations.

Tuesday, May 1, 6:00 p.m. — WEST OF WELLS — Discover an often overlooked treasure trove of fascinating Reno history. Join us as we walk the neighborhood West of Wells Avenue, along the former path of the V and T railroad. Experience unusual architecture unique to this neighborhood and learn the history of the colorful characters who gave birth to Reno’s neighborhood on the other side of the tracks. Meet outside Silver Peak at 140 Wonder Street. Tour Guide: Barrie Schuster

Saturday, May 5, 10:00 a.m. —- MONROE STREET — Stroll along Monroe and Joaquin Miller Streets, savoring the history and architecture of this lovely residential area south of the Newlands Neighborhood. You will see the Hart House, the Patrick Ranch House, Greystone Castle, and other homes. Meet at the corner of Monroe and Manor Drives. Tour Guides: Elsie Newman, April Kempler.

Tuesday, May 8, 6:00 p.m. — DELONGCHAMPS RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE — This walk takes you on a neighborhood tour of many noteworthy homes, both large and small, designed by Reno’s notable architect, Frederic Delongchamps. Also, hear about his life and what made him so unique to this area. Meet at the Hardy House, 442 Flint Street. Tour Guide: Sharon Honig-Bear.

Saturday, May 12, 10:00 a.m. — PROHIBITION IN RENO — We’ve turned back the clocks to the 1920s and 30s. We’ll walk streets and alleys and visit significant buildings, recalling Reno’s saloons and reformers (the WCTU and Anti-Saloon League) and feature a guest appearance by a local dignitary of the area. Tour starts at Amtrak’s Reno Station, 135 East Commercial Row, Tour Guides: Debbie Hinman and Sharon Honig-Bear

Tuesday, May 15, 6:00 p.m. — UNIVERSITY HISTORIC DISTRICT (CAMPUS) — Visit Morrill Hall, MacKay School of Mines and the Keck Museum to learn the history of this beautiful campus. Meet at Honor Court, 9th and Center Street. Tour Guide: Jack Hursh.

Saturday, May 19, 10:00 a.m. — ROADS AND RAILS, HISTORIC FOURTH STREET CORRIDOR — Discover the historic origins of the Lincoln Highway and the Nevada, California and Oregon Railroad, stopping to appreciate the Barengo/NCO building, Flanigan warehouse, and other vestiges of the corridor’s heyday. Meet at Louis Basque Corner, 301 E. 4th Street. Tour Guide: Cindy Ainsworth.

Tuesday, May 22, 6:00 p.m. — UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD — A walk through an historic and endangered neighborhood at the foot of the campus—with vintage Queen Anne homes and charming bungalows. Meet at the base of the 9th Street university steps. Tour Guide: Debbie Hinman.

Saturday, May 26, 10:00 a.m. — ETHNIC RENO, EAST SIDE — Some call Lake Street “Paradise Lost” but we will recreate the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown, Little Italy, and Basque life. Meet at the National Automobile Museum, 10 Lake Street. Tour Guides: Sharon Honig-Bear and Drew Gerthoffer

Tuesday, May 29, 6:00 p.m. — BRICKS AND STONES — A walk in the Humboldt and Lander Streets Neighborhood. Discover the architectural treasures of this area, a mix of bungalows, Tudor and mission revivals and cottage styles. Meet at My Favorite Muffin, 340 California Avenue. Tour Guide: Bill Isaeff

White Pine County

May 19: This is the first part of a two part event (all are welcome for one or both events). Join Great Basin National Park, Baker, NV in making prehistoric pottery from 10 am – 3 pm at the Great Basin Visitor Center Resource Classroom. Everyone is welcome to watch a demonstration of prehistoric pottery making techniques including selecting and grinding clay, preparing the clay and temper, and hand building a coiled pot. Anyone is welcome to observe. A small number of people may sign up to make their own pottery, pre-registration is required for up to 6 participants. For more information and to pre-register please contact Eva Jensen at 775-234-7331 ext. 235 or Eva_Jensen@nps.gov.

June 2: This is the second part of a two part event (all are welcome for one or both events). Join Great Basin National Park, Baker, NV in a pottery firing demonstration at 11 am, meet at the Great Basin Visitor Center. Watch a pottery firing demonstration of open firing technique (no kiln) used by Native American potters from A.D. 600 through the late 1800’s. For more information please contact Eva Jensen at 775-234-7331 ext. 235 or Eva_Jensen@nps.gov.

###

The Nevada State Historic Preservation Office encourages the preservation of Nevada’s historic and prehistoric heritage through federal and state programs. It provides federal grants from the National Park Service to fund historic preservation activities in Nevada. The Office assists federal and state agencies, local governments, private non-profit organizations and private citizens to preserve buildings and archaeological sites.

STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

901 S. Stewart Street, Suite 5004

Carson City, NV 89701-5248

775-684-3448

www.nvshpo.org

Universally, the main topic of the conversation was “when to buy?”. My answer was “when the time is right for you”. Those that did buy usually had a compelling reason. Most often – believe it or not – the reason was the rental home they were in was being foreclosed on and they couldn’t stand the uncertainty of when or if they’d be thrown out. Some just realized that with ridiculously low interest rates and prices, they’d be so much better off owning than renting.

Those that didn’t buy were almost all afraid to buy into a falling market. “I’ll buy when we hit the bottom” was usually the end of the conversation.

I sent all of them an email this morning. Here’s what it said.  

During the last year or so I spoke to many people – including you – about real estate in Las Vegas. For many, it boiled down to “waiting till we get to the bottom”.

 

We believe that we’ve bottomed out now. Sure there’s some who disagree. There always will be. They usually get the headlines.  The big, month after month declines have stopped. The sales volume for December  and ALL of 2011 set a new record. EVERYTHING that’s for sale is bargain priced. Investment money is flooding in from all over the world, the phone is ringing off the hook, and the emails come in fast and furious.  All are signs that we’re finally there.  Yes, there will be some up and down monthly blips, but for all practical purposes we’re at the bottom. FINALLY!

 

We haven’t talked in quite some time, and it’s time we talked again.  Whether you’ve considered a home to live in, or positive cash flow investment property, this year is when we should be putting a plan together for you.

 

And if you’re upside down on a mortgage, have fallen behind in your payments or have some other hardship – We should definitely be talking about short selling your current home and how long it will take till you could buy again.

 

If you’re still considering – it’s time to take some action. I invite you to call or email. Let’s talk!

 

Sincerely,  Jack

The following graphs were attached. They show the number of sales over an 11 year period and the medium price of homes during the same period. 2003 was the last year when we had prices that reflected “REAL VALUE” of homes. We base that on the expectations of buyers at different income levels.

For example – in 2003 a single person making $15.00 an hour (or $30,000/year) would expect to be able to buy 90,000 condo in a nice complex in a good part of town. They should also have been able to buy a cute retro 2 bedroom 1 bath in one of our terrific historic neighborhoods for the same 90 - $100,000. They could even have bought (in 2003) a much larger home in a crappy neighborhood for the same money.

Today – you can buy a 1500 -1800 square foot 3 bedroom 2 bath in a good neighborhood for the same money and with the same income. See what I mean? Five years ago that house was 200 to $250,000. Interest rates at the time were around 8%, and the only way to buy was with one of the funny money loans that got us into all the trouble in the first place.

So maybe (probably) you’re not one of the 287 people who received an email from me today. Maybe it’s time for you to have the conversation with me. Feel free to call me at 378–7055 or to email me at jack@unclejack.com

And just as I’m finally getting around to doing what I should be doing (writing a blog post) it’s time for you to consider what’s happening in the Las Vegas Real Estate Market – and do something about it! Let’s talk.

Nighttime is best of all to see it. FRIDAY NIGHT DECEMBER  23 They’ll be serving hot chocolate to all who stop by from 6 to 8 pm.

You can find the largest collection of blow up Christmas Decor in all of Las Vegas at:

1901 Houston Ave, at the corner of Crestwood Drive. (south on Crestwood from Charleston or west on Houston from Eastern). It’s also in the begging to be re-discovered Mid-Century modern neighborhood called Crestwood.

All of Lee and Laura’s past and present displays can be seen at the twisted vegas website

BRING ME SUNSHINE

Secondly – as a holiday greeting and wish for all of you – I give you a little video from The Uk’s number one Jive and Swing Band – The Jive Aces.

A big thank you to Vegas Judy for sharing it with me. It brought a much needed smile to my face, and if Las Vegas needs anything right now, it needs a smile. Pass it on!

Make sure to catch the little homage that’s paid to Louis Prima right near the end.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

We sometimes stay focused on the things that are wrong or that need improvement…and yes, things can always be better.  And that view is needed at times, so we can constantly improve.  But we also need to take a breath, a step back, and count all of our blessings.  It’s not just the things we have; it’s also the problems, issues, or heartaches we don’t have…because things could be a lot worse.

I appreciate your friendship and loyalty, and I am truly thankful.

This year, the weekend is called “POP, BOOM – A LIFESTYLE REVOLUTION”. It’s being put on by ADAS the Architectural and Decorative Arts Society of Las Vegas.

I will be personally conducting and narrating the Mid Century Modern BUS TOUR on Sunday Afternoon, and I’d love for you to go with us. This year – we’ll be touring thru the historic Mid Century Modern Neighborhoods of Las Vegas.

Tickets for the bus tour are $30.00 and you can get yours at the ADAS-LV website.

Saturday’s panel discussions and the Cuban inspired reception at the MORELLI HOUSE are FREE and are  co-sponsored by the Vegas Valley Book Festival.

Again – TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE ADAS WEBSITE – ORDER YOUR TICKETS NOW! Last year the bus tour sold out on the day before the tour.

Below is the agenda of the remaining events that start tonight.

If you’ve kicked yourself in the past for having missed it, or want to see it again, this could be the last chance. Neighbors and County Commission have tried to shut it down (and succeeded for the last 2 years). A recent court ruling has cleared the path for it to happen once again.

This year there will be a donation of $10.00 per person. Shuttle bus service is available from the shopping centers at Flamingo and Sandhill.

The address is 4318 Ridgecrest Drive. 1 block south of the corner of Sandhill and Flamingo

Lonnie made a little video to give you a taste of what it’s all about.

I’ll be volunteering, once again as a docent –  so seek me out and say hello.

j

Here’s the map. Even the street view is fun 

Besides the expanded area into all of Downtown Las Vegas, there’s also expanded parking, expanded shuttle service, expanded food service, music stages, and much much more.

The “2 month hiatus”, though nerve-wracking at first gave everyone he breathing room to rethink what could be possible. Tomorrow night should be one of the most exciting First Fridays ever.

It looks like everyone is co-operating. Maybe even the weather will do it’s part.

For all of the information – visit the newly re-designed First Friday Website.

I hope you can make it to all or some of the events. Tickets to the Las Vegas Mid-Century Modern Weekend are on sale now.   

POP, BOOM LIFESTYLE REVOLUTION

ADAS Mid-Century Modern Weekend

Wednesday, October 19 – Sunday, October 23, 2011

ADAS (Architecture and Decorative Arts Society) celebrates all
things mid-century modern with an extraordinary five day event.
A pass for all five days is a very reasonable $100; $90 for ADAS
members. Included is the kick off mixer, general admission to
the Atomic Testing Museum, mid-century vendors; mid-century
architectural seminar; mid-century dinner; fashion show; silent
auction; three mid-century discussion panels; Morelli House
reception; four-hour mid-century neighborhood bus tour. Visit
ADAS website at www.adas-lv.com to purchase your tickets. Space
is limited on most events.

Wednesday, October 19

ADAS kicks off the mid-modern experience by hosting a mixer at the
Atomic Testing Museum, 5:30 – 7:30. Guests will have a lot to entertain
themselves for the evening. A ticket for admission to the museum will
be included in the price of the mixer. Guests can take the tour that
evening, or can return at a later date. The Museum store will also be
open for shopping. There will be food and wine in the main reception
area, along with vendors previewing products that were popular in the
50s and 60s.

Event price: $30.00

Thursday, October 20

Again at the Atomic Testing Museum, ADAS is hosting a seminar

primarily for homeowners on the evolution and care of these historic
buildings. Speakers with hands on experience in this genre of distinctive
houses will share their knowledge. Food and wine will be provided.
Vendors who specialize in mid-modern architecture will also be on
hand.

Time: 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

Event Price: $30.00

Friday, October 21

A mid-century dinner will be held at Holsum Lofts, catered by Lola’s
Restaurant. In addition to enjoying foods of the time period, diners will
enjoy mid-century fashions in a multi-generational fashion show. There
will also be a silent auction to tease the senses. Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm

Event Price: $50.00

Saturday, October 22

The El Cortez Hotel will be the venue for this free event co-sponsored
by the City of Las Vegas. There will be food and drink, followed
by three expert panels. After the panel presentation there will be a
reception at the Morelli House.

1:00 pm “Mid-Century Life Style Evolution” Local author and
architect, Robert Fielden (Creating Place: Remaking America Green )
leads a discussion with author and architectural historian, Peter Moruzzi
and others on the profound impact of midcentury design and architecture
on American life in the middle of the 20th century.

2:00 pm “Family Feud: Havana vs. Las Vegas in the 1950s” Peter
Moruzzi, presents an illustrated presentation from his book, Havana
Before Castro-When Cuba Was a Tropical Playground. Before Castro’s
revolution, Havana and Las Vegas were rivals for the title of the “Monte
Carlo of the Americas.” Cuba’s exotic tropical setting, wild reputation,
close proximity, and supportive government inspired the mob to

invest heavily in fabulous hotel-casinos such as the Capri, Riviera, and
Nacional. Yet, many of these same investors were also among Vegas’
biggest boosters – Moe Dalitz, Sam Tucker, and front man Wilbur
Clark. In 1958, the Nevada Gaming Control Board forced them to
choose, Havana or Las Vegas, but not both.

3:00 pm “Dolls, Dons, and Dictators,” Architectural historian,
Peter Moruzzi (Havana Before Castro – When Cuba Was a Tropical
Playground); author Wendy Watson (Vegas Rag Doll); Myer Lansky II;
and local author and historian Michael Green engage in a spirited and
expanded discussion about the parallel worlds of Las Vegas and Cuba,
drawing from their insights and some of their own personal real life
experiences.

4:00 pm – 6 pm “Cha, Cha, Cha” Cuban inspired reception with music,
drink and refreshment at the Morelli House, 861 E. Bridger.

Sunday, October 23

Hosted by well known realtor and mid-century modern real estate expert
Jack LeVine, guests will take a four-hour tour on an open double-decker
bus through iconic mid-century Las Vegas neighborhoods. In addition
to touring neighborhoods, the bus will make several stops to peek inside
select properties. Bus will depart and return to parking lot at Boulevard
Mall. Time: 12 noon – 4 pm.

Event Price: $30.00

We don’t really suck. We do get homes sold – even in the toughest, worst Real Estate Market in the world. But, it’s a lot easier to market it well when the home is  almost a million dollars. And in Hollywood.  And your friends are movie people. However, Eric Lavey has raised the bar on how to show off a listing. I’d be remiss to not show it to you.

The story first appeared on AOL REAL ESTATE. I picked up on it from Inman News. Within hours it showed up on several real estate industry blogs that I folow. I think it should be shared with the readers of VeryVintageVegas for a couple of reasons.

First, in contrast to what we normally see in the Las Vegas MLS –  it wasn’t shot with the video camera on a cell phone.  It’s not out of focus. It wasn’t loaded sideways. The kitchen is clean and tidy. It’s not vacant and dirty and beat up. The landscape is alive. The bed is made. There’s no shopping cart on the curb in front of the home. It wasn’t shot on trash day.

Several years ago, we did a 3 year long series on the Worst MLS PHOTOS. In contrast to the below video, here’s the 2007 winner of the worst MLS photo contest. As you can see, there’s been other occupants who have had staring roles in the marketing materials.

Most importantly, it’s a very cool Mid Century Modern Home. Enjoy!

6816 Pacific View Drive, Hollywood Hills from Eric Lavey on Vimeo.

Labor Day Weekend In Vintage Vegas will really be rocking! 3 Different venues on Maryland Parkway. 3 days of non stop music.

Huntridge Circle Park To Host The Friday and Saturday evening events of the Maryland Parkway Music Festival

We’re especially pleased that the newly re-opened HUNTRIDGE CIRCLE PARK will have it’s first major event in the last six years. Having served on the original re-design committee 10 years ago, and as a leading proponent of getting Circle Park re-opened during the last 5 years, I’m happy to see it used for a major event.

For 60 plus years, Circle Park was a meeting place for all the now Historic Neighborhoods that surround the park. Hopefully this will generate renewed interest and lots of future events and programs.

The Sam Ash Music parking lot at Karen and Maryland Parkway will host the Saturday afternoon line-up.

UNLV will host the Sunday line-up from Noon to 9 PM, at Harmon Avenue and Maryland Parkway.

The complete calendar and list of acts that are performing are on the Maryland Parkway Music Festival Website

I’ll be appearing on the TV show “American Restoration” on FRIDAY, AUGUST 26 at 9pm. It’s on the History Channel – 43.

In February, I had put out a call on this blog to help Rick and his team find stuff to restore for the TV show. I offered them up what had been a piece of yard art at my house. They accepted it, but I’m forbidden to reveal anything about what they restored for me, or anything about the filming of the episode. You’ll just have to watch to see.

It’s one thing to make regular tv appearance on local news shows, or at a City Council meeting, but his is a big time national cable broadcast. I’m dying to find out if I come across as nervous as I really was.  

They’re gearing up to start filming a new series, and you can still submit items to be restored.

And now…Let’s Welcome Rick’s Restoration as the newest addition to the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District!

While I was at their old “secret” location – they told me that they would be moving the entire operation to Downtown Las Vegas. I was sworn to secrecy, but the new location is now open, and I took the tour today with Tyler.

They’re now on Commerce Ave, 2 driveways south of Charleston. They’re open 9–5 Monday thru Friday and you can just walk in and take a tour, visit the show room, gift shop and see watch all the restoration work taking place thru huge picture windows into each workspace. 

Tours are given whenever you walk in during regular business hours. I’m encouraging them to be open for First Friday.

Rick’s Restoration Showroom and Shop is the newest reason to visit the Art’s District. I think having tourists lining up will help drive a lot of weekday traffic into the Arts District.

Welcome, Rick, as well as all of your crew – to Downtown Las Vegas and The Arts District.  

Original post from 8/16/11 begins here.

Huntridge Circle Park is back in the news again.

The new Ward 3 City Councilman Bob Coffin has suggested that the proposed Veteran’s Memorial be changed to Heritage Park which is in the Cultural Corridor along Las Vegas Blvd.

The original proposal, to have the memorial at Huntridge Circle Park was not loved by the surrounding neighborhoods, but was accepted as a means to get the park opened again.

Since the discussion is to be held at tomorrow’s council meeting, there’s not a lot of time to give them feedback.

If you’d like the Veteran’s Memorial changed to Heritage Park in the cultural Corridor, please call Bob Coffin’s office, 229–6405 and tell him.

Or if you have the time, you can email to all of the City Council members from the webpage for the council. Unfortunately, there’s no way to send one email to all of them. You’ll have to click on each of the wards, and email separately.

Here’s the whole story:

On August 17, 2011 at 9am the Las Vegas City Council will convene. One of the items on the agenda will be the relocation of the proposed Veterans Memorial from Huntridge Park to Heritage Park on Las Vegas Boulevard North. The relocation of the memorial from Heritage Park would be a more fitting location to remember our fallen heroes than Huntridge Circle Park.

Here is a list of reasons why Heritage Park is a better location:

- Heritage Park is located on Las Vegas Boulevard, a designated National Scenic Byway
- The Veterans Memorial when built, will be located within walking distance of the Las Vegas Veterans of Foreign Wars Fred S. Pennington Post 1753
- The Veterans Memorial will be located within walking distance from Veterans Memorial Drive
- The Veterans Memorial will be located within walking distance from the American Legion Post #8 located on Veterans Memorial Drive
- It will be located near the historic neighborhood of Biltmore Bungalows. The bungalows were originally built to house airmen stationed at the Air Gunnery Range which would later become Nellis Air Force Base
- The memorial will be located near the US Vets Inc. Las Vegas housing center on Bonanza Road. US Vets provides services for veterans with comprehensive housing and employment services
- The memorial will be located in the heart of the Cultural Corridor. The Cultural Corridor is home to the world famous Neon Museum, Las Vegas Natural HistoryMuseum, Lied Children’s Museum, Las Vegas Library, Cashman Field – home of the Las Vegas 51’s AAA Baseball Team, the Mormon Fort, where Las Vegas began
- Heritage Park is located 1 mile north of historic Fremont Street and the Fremont East Entertainment District
- Heritage Park is located next to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, which has ample parking. In addition the park is set back from the traffic of Las Vegas Boulevard where it allows for a quiet and more contemplative experience.

These photos are not for reproduction, or for use in any capacity except by express written consent from VeryVintageVegas.

If you click the thumbnails, they’ll expand to a much bigger size, and may take a few extra seconds to load due to the size of the originals.

The first one is pretty easy, as it has a major element of Mid Century Modern architecture and design. It’s interesting to see the asymmetrical shapes of the homes, and some of the elements of the design starting to merge. I’m also fascinated by the depth of field that causes the mountains to loom so large.

Which direction are we facing? What are the 2 non-residential buildings that are in the picture? What streets might these be?

The second picture is one of our historic Mid Century Modern Schools in Las Vegas. It’s not finished enough to look like any school I recognize. I wish they’d taken the photo from above the chain link fence rather than thru it, but unless someone wants to photoshop the fence away, we’ll have to work with what we have.

 Our third picture is a mid century modern neighborhood somewhere in Central Vintage Vegas.

I’m totally baffled. The only thing I’ve decided for sure is that the open pathway between the homes is not the street, but is instead the area that will eventually be backyards. But I could be wrong.

These seem to be mostly ranch style homes, compared to the “desert modern” themes of the first picture.

Please use the comment button to give us your guesses, clues and observations.

If you’d like to see the other “mystery photos” that our secret historian has found over the years, they’re all here in this link. This post will show up first, but keep scrolling down.

In case you missed this episode of Tom Hawley’s Video Bank on August 11, you’ll want to see it. It’s tells the story of Helen Stewart. Her ranch which encompassed 1800 acres was centered on what is now the Historic Old Las Vegas Morman Fort State Park on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Washington.

Most of the 1800 acres eventually became the original City of Las Vegas when it was sold to the railroad. There’s plenty more on Helen Stewart in the RJ’s excellent series on the “First 100” of those who shaped Las Vegas.

The new statue of Helen is scheduled for unveiling on December 3^rd.

Though loathe to admit she’s right….Pam at Retrorenovation helped me realize why I’m so reluctant to sit down and type. I sit and type a lot, but it’s mostly email, these days. I actually miss writing for you on a daily basis, but my back is always hurting, and by the time I’m done with the daily work part of selling Vintage homes in Las Vegas, I’m usually too scrunched up and/or heat exhausted to start a new 2 or three hour typing session. But, once again, I’ll tell you that … I’m going to try to do better.

What I HAVE been doing some of, is posting and sharing and commenting on facebook. I know a lot of readers just “don’t do Facebook” or have stopped. I stopped for a while when it got too confusing, but I think I’ve figure it out again.

I’m about to ask all my 1068 “facebook friends” to follow me on my VeryVintageVegas facebook page, which I think I’ve forgotten to mention.

It’s the LIKE button when you get there. I’m eventually going to stop posting on my personal page.

Here’s a few of the hot stories you might have missed if you weren’t following me on Facebook:

FIRST FRIDAY in the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District

It’s a go! Only the “official” First Friday is on Hiatus. There’s been a lot of confusion, but the most recent press – RJ, SUN, VIEW, and the TV news now has it right.

Come on out anyway. All the shops and restaurants and galleries and everything else is open.

There’s even a new First Friday South – car show, tents and more on 3^rd Street

First Friday has actually become an all night celebration of ALL of Downtown Las Vegas.  Huge crowds start out at First Friday in the Arts District and then move on to Fremont Street Experience, and Fremont East Entertainment District.

If you really need to know the background story, several of the Arts District business owners were on KNPR State of Nevada on Thursday morning to discuss it.

AND – this just in – An ART WALK EVERY FRIDAY! reported on Enculturate Las Vegas – which is where you’ll find the most comprehensive coverage of the arts and culture of Las Vegas. If you are on Facebook, Brian Paco Alverez is the best source for everything. He’s always posting everything that’s art and culture related.

Former Mayor Oscar Goodman To Open Restaurant In The Plaza Hotel On Fremont Street

from the Las Vegas Sun 

It was inevitable, of course. Former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman is opening a speak-easy, and yes it will be named after him.

The mob lawyer-turned-public servant-turned-entrepreneur is opening a steakhouse and bar this fall in the Plaza downtown, in the space previously occupied by tapas restaurant Firefly…….

A Place In Paradise – A Photographic Retrospective of Paradise Palms, The Boulevard Mall, and The Celebrities Who Lived There

Yes, it’s Brian Paco Alvarez again – wearing his day-job-hat as Curator of the Las Vegas News Bureau.

The show is in the food court of the Boulevard Mall. It’s free, and open during all mall hours this month.

There’s a special gathering and showing on Saturday – August 6^th for the residents of Paradise Palms. 5 to 7 PM. It’s a public place and they can’t (and don’t want to) keep you away. If you’re curious about a VERY special neighborhood in Vintage Las Vegas, and want to meet a truly engaged and active group of neighbors, then this is a great opportunity to do so.

This link will take you to just about every post I’ve ever written about Paradise Palms.

If you want to see what a terrific neighborhood website looks like – check out Paradise Palms Las Vegas. It should be the template for every historic neighborhood. All it takes is someone like Clay Heximer to make it happen. If you want to see the Paradise Palms Facebook Page, just click away.

Clay Heximer and Brian Paco Alverez will be the guest on KNPR State of Nevada FRIDAY, AUGUST 5 to discuss the photo retrospective. The link will be up after the show on the KNPR website.

And if you want to see what all the Paradise Palms buzz is about in person, take a drive behind the Boulevard Mall. Paradise Palms is on BOTH sides of Desert Inn between Maryland Parkway and Eastern Ave.

And of course talk or email me if you’re buying and selling in any of the Historic Neighborhoods of Las Vegas.

This took 3 hours, my back is killing me, and still, I’m most pleased to have typed out a real blog post again.