Very Vintage Vegas

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• The Loving Restoration Of A Mid Century Modern Home In Paradise Palms – Las Vegas
• May is Historic Preservation Month In Las Vegas and Nevada
• A Big Thank You To All Who Love Mid Century Modern Homes and Las Vegas Historic and Vintage Neighborhoods
• Cinema In The Circle – At Huntridge Circle Park
• The Atomic Bomb Influence On Mid Century Culture And It’s Lasting Effects On Current Culture
• “Four Houses” On The Learning Channel Seeks Mid Century Modern Homes In Las Vegas
• Paradise Palms – “The Mid Mod Neighborhood” Of Las Vegas Is Featured In Atomic Ranch Magazine
• “He Used To Blog” About Mid Century Modern Homes And Historic Neighborhoods In Las Vegas
• Archaeological Awareness and Historic Preservation Month For The State Of Nevada
• Have We Reached The Bottom In The Las Vegas Real Estate Market?
• Some Holiday Cheer For Vintage Las Vegas
• Happy Thanksgiving
• Las Vegas Mid Century Modern Weekend – Tickets Are Still Available
• The Last Chance To See The “Hammargren Home Of Nevada History”
• First Friday Expands To Cover More Of Downtown Las Vegas

The Loving Restoration Of A Mid Century Modern Home In Paradise Palms – Las Vegas Posted: 22 May 2014 03:38 PM PDT Every time I drive someone through Paradise Palms – the home that most gets them excited is the “Caddyshack”. They say – “I want that one”. Someone is going to get a chance soon. You may know it – it’s the green and white one on Seneca Drive just south of Desert Inn. It’s a model 7B of the Palmer and Krisel series built by Molasky Construction. The current owners Cary and Mary-Margaret Stratton, have been dedicated to the Mid Century Modern restoration movement for many years. They worked with the LA Conservancy’s Modern Committee. They started the Atomic Age Alliance here in Las Vegas. They published a tour book of Las Vegas Modern Architecture. And now – they’ve restored the Caddyshack to it’s original concept, feel and energy. There are a lot of Mid-Century homes in Las Vegas that still look original from the outside. Too many of them have been “updated, upgraded” or otherwise modified to look nothing like they did when they were new. This isn’t one of them. The inside is even better. If you love the time capsule homes you see regularly in Atomic Ranch or at Retrorenovation, you’ll really appreciate the thought and effort that was put into this restoration. I will be putting it on the market tomorrow. You might want to save the date for the public open house — Sunday June 8th, 2014 from noon to 4 pm. We’ve created the video below as well as a separate website – LVCADDYSHACK –  to demonstrate the vibe and the energy of this incredible home.

May is Historic Preservation Month In Las Vegas and Nevada Posted: 01 May 2014 01:06 PM PDT May is always one of my favorite months. Not only is the weather “perfect” – it’s also Historic Preservation Month. There are lots of events, a rodeo, tours, concerts, lectures, parades, and more. Below you’ll find the scheduled events and links to the various websites. HELLDORADO! Let’s start with the most local of events – Helldorado! There’s the parade, the rodeo, the mustache contest and more. I’ll be riding in the May 17 parade with the Las Vegas Historic Preservation Commission. They’ve moved the rodeo and carnival to Symphony Park this year. Here’s the link to all Helldorado events.     Nevada Preservation Foundation Nevada Preservation Foundation has a 4 event lecture discussion series called called Mid Century Modern Architecture and Preservation. I’m on the board of Directors of this wonderful new non-profit organization. While you’re at their website – I encourage you to join as a member to help us further our educational and advocacy work. The four events: “Richard Neutra: What the Neighors Thought Was Wrong” on May 6th; “MCM Interiors: A Nod to Mid Mod” on May 15; “The Mid-Century Home: Panel & Discussion” on May 22; and a “Film Screening & Discussion: Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman (2009)” on May 22 The Junior League of Las Vegas Presents 'Alive from the Sands Copa Room' Friday, May 9 • Lowden Theater of the Performing Arts • Las Vegas Academy High School • 315 S. 7th Street 5:30 p.m. – THE RAT PACK AND THE SANDS • Pre-concert lecture by historian, Dr. Michael Green. Free and open to the public • Nevada Humanities on the Road Presentation 7 p.m. – LVA UNPLUGGED: ALIVE FROM THE COPA  Jazz Concert by the Las Vegas Academy Jazz Bands featuring guest vocalist, Marlena ShawTickets: $8 available at the door. (Cash only) • Advance ticket sales for groups: call 702-499-4197 COMPLIMENTARY POST-CONCERT RECEPTION Hosted by the Junior League of Las Vegas at the Historic Morelli House • 861 East Bridger Avenue State of Nevada Office Of Historic Preservation: “NEVADA’S SESQUICENTENNIAL – 150 YEARS OF STATEHOOD There are events in all parts of the state celebrating the 150th Anniversary of statehood for Nevada. The whole schedule (including some events already mentioned)  is here One local highlight is: Vintage Vegas Food Tour Vintage Vegas Food Tour, May 10 and 24,  4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Downtown Las Vegas This combination walking and bus tour, guided by Vegas Valley Food Tours, will take you to five vintage restaurants that have withstood the test of time in downtown Las Vegas.  Each restaurant, from a bygone era, has been part of the Las Vegas community for at least 25 years. Along the way, you'll be treated to recorded interviews of restaurant owners and workers, provided by Nevada Humanities.  Between tastings, a local tour guide will highlight historic architecture and cultural features that put Las Vegas on the map. When it's over, you'll have a little bite of Las Vegas history both in your mind and your stomach.  Click here for a brochure with tour route. Tickets are $109 each and are available through Vegas Valley Food Tours beginning April 25th.

A Big Thank You To All Who Love Mid Century Modern Homes and Las Vegas Historic and Vintage Neighborhoods Posted: 18 Apr 2014 01:04 PM PDT There’s a lot of people who I owe a big thank you to. Some have been clients who have hired me to help them buy or sell their Mid Century Modern Homes in Las Vegas. Some live nearby in the historic neighborhoods of Las Vegas. Some I’ve met and some I haven’t. Most of them are being thanked for making the world, Las Vegas, or their neighborhood a little bit better. Many of them have been fans of VeryVintageVegas in the past. Lots of them tell me (on a very regular basis) that they miss my blogging. Some even tell me over and over again. I’m actually starting to do something about it. That’s why you’re reading this. Here we go again. I hope the blogging habit can stick as well as the change in diet and exercise that I’ve undertaken over the last 10 months. I’m the leanest and strongest I’ve ever been in my life. I went through the entire winter without even a single moment of chest pain. I haven’t been 175 pounds since 8th grade. All the friends who encouraged me and complimented me and were astounded watching the changes that I’ve made to my shape and to my health are officially thanked! In case any of you were wondering – it’s been this thing called healthy eating and exercise that did it. Who knew? One night at 4am – I couldn’t sleep from the heartburn of a midnight pizza. I decided I couldn’t live like that anymore and decided to do something about it. I started by swearing off fast food drive-thrus. I walked into a downtown gym to see what they were about. I drank the kool-aid and signed up for their eating program and started with a personal trainer. I graduated to group “cross fit” style exercise at REAL RESULTS FITNESS in downtown Las Vegas. I am very grateful to Paul, Brandon, Lonnie, Rex, Marcie and Heidi and all the staff at a really great place to get fit. It really does work.       A Few Of My Heroes In Vintage Vegas Get Special Mention For Their Love Of Las Vegas History, Mid-Century Modern Architecture And The Historic Neighborhoods Once upon a time – (about 15 years ago) I thought I was the only one who appreciated mid-century-modern architecture, and the established, mature (and now historic) neighborhoods. One by one – an army of allies showed up who loved them as much as I do. To name a few – and please know there are plenty of others – Heidi Swank who recently founded Nevada Preservation Foundation; Brian Paco Alvarez who blogs and facebooks like no other; Terry Wilsey; Mark and Bill from Retro Vegas; Clay and Denise Heximer and David Cornoyer from Paradise Palms; Cary and Mary-Margaret Stratton; Mark Adams from VegasTodayAndTomorrow; Dan Roberts and Mellisa Clary who started The Huntridge Foundation;  Everyone who started a neighborhood association; or created a Facebook Page for one of them; bought a bank owned or beat up home and made improvements. It’s a really long list – but these folks need to be thanked. I’ll tell you this – I’m real happy with the way things are turning around in the historic neighborhoods. Things were looking pretty shabby at the height of the depression in Las Vegas. There’s still lots of work to do – but there’s plenty of people working toward the same end. I’ll even say it – the whole Zappos Downtown Project effect is great and I thank them as well. Well – that’s 2 posts in 3 days! They say it takes 90 days to establish a new habit. I’m looking forward to being in the habit again.

Cinema In The Circle – At Huntridge Circle Park Posted: 14 Apr 2014 12:49 PM PDT   Jack LeVine – THE Realtor for Mid Century Modern Homes and Historic Neighborhoods in Las Vegas is pleased to sponsor this years Movies Series – “Cinema in the Circle” The 2014 Movie Series is starting up and I’m pleased to be one of this year’s corporate sponsors. The first event is the 2006 comedy “Nacho Libre” starring Jack Black. The first event of this years season is FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 2014. The show starts at sundown (approximately 7pm this month).- The Cinema in the Circle series is FREE to the public. The movies are shown outdoors at The Huntridge Circle Park on Maryland Parkway – just south of Charleston Ave. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. The snack bar will be open and proceeds will benefit THF. If you’re not a downtown resident and haven’t explored the historic neighborhoods of Las Vegas – I suggest spending an hour or two driving around the neighborhoods surrounding Huntridge Circle Park. You’ll love the Mid Century Modern Architecture of the homes you find. The Huntridge Foundation and the West Huntridge Neighborhood Association are producing the series.   The Huntridge Foundation The mission of the Huntridge Foundation is to preserve the architectural integrity, history and culture of the Huntridge Theatre and the surrounding community. The foundation is pending 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization tax exemption status and is registered in the state of Nevada. The community movement is led by Las Vegas residents seeking to restore the beauty and splendor of the Huntridge Theatre's streamline moderne architecture to the iconic Las Vegas landmark. The goal is to promote awareness of the theatre's potential for operating such diverse cultural programming as cinematic films, performing arts theatre, live entertainment, special event venue space and all-age music shows, among other events. The Huntridge Foundation's efforts include the following: Performing research to document and archive the historic significance of the building, identify entertainment acts that played there, as well as discover longtime Las Vegas residents who attended the theatre; Conducting interviews and creating storied exhibits using eyewitness accounts and memorabilia from longtime Las Vegas residents who performed, worked and attended the Huntridge Theatre; Producing local events and applying for grants to raise funding for the foundation's work documenting the theatre's history and significance. You Can also follow The Huntridge Foundation on their facebook page.

The Atomic Bomb Influence On Mid Century Culture And It’s Lasting Effects On Current Culture Posted: 05 Aug 2013 02:12 PM PDT Las Vegas was ground central – literally- when it came to the testing of Atomic Bombs. What effect did it have on Las Vegas? On the pop culture of the time?  On the whole “Mid Century Modern” cultural revival that we’re experiencing today? My new friend Monique Gaudin has done her master’s thesis on the topic of the Atomic bomb’s influence on pop culture – both then and now. In what is to me a new twist – the thesis is an online publication. It makes sense, since the degree program is “New Media Journalism” from Full Sail University. Click here to view the embedded video. Above is the introduction video. How I got to be the opening scene, I’m not sure. I’m certainly flattered though. I actually have only a few seconds at 3:40 but I do appear later in the website. Click here to see the entire thesis about the lasting effects of Atomic Testing on Mid Century Modern Culture. Half way down – you’ll find an “atomic clock”. Each of the hour buttons is discussion of various elements. I am featured in the 11 o’clock and 2 o’clock buttons. All in all – it’s a fun retrospective and explains a lot about why we’re all so enamored of all things Mid Century Modern.

“Four Houses” On The Learning Channel Seeks Mid Century Modern Homes In Las Vegas Posted: 11 Sep 2012 11:39 AM PDT I’ve been asked by The Learning Channel’s “Four Houses” show to help them find Mid Century Modern Homes in Las Vegas that are worthy of being on their show. In case you are unfamiliar, Four Houses just had it’s first season on TLC. The show asks four homeowners to critique the style, decor, and originality of each other’s homes, and rank them based on four criteria. In the end, the homeowner with the highest score wins a prize. This year, the prize per episode is $10,000.   The flyer (click it to see it full size) says to email them pictures and contact information. If you make that first cut, then they’ll ask you to fill out an application and arrange an interview.  Everyone thinks I know all the cool retro Mid Mod Homes in Las Vegas. Even though I’ve been in more of them than anyone else, I don’t know everyone – as much as I’d like to. I’m sure there’s many many homes that I don’t know about that could be perfect for an episode of “Four Houses”. If you want to get the ball rolling, then follow the directions in the flyer.  Most of their shows that have been filmed so far are either way out bizarre homes, or “beautifully” decorated suburban McMansions. This time they’re looking for Mid Century Modern Homes – tastefully done in authentic or retro era-proper decor. If there’s enough qualified entries, then they might even do a second episode.  If you’re as proud of your Mid Mod home and furnishings as I am of mine….. lets find out who has the best one.

Paradise Palms – “The Mid Mod Neighborhood” Of Las Vegas Is Featured In Atomic Ranch Magazine Posted: 01 Sep 2012 05:12 PM PDT One of the most important neighborhoods in Very Vintage Vegas is Paradise Palms. I’m proud to have sold over a hundred homes in Paradise Palms over the last 22 years. Many of the most prominent and active residents are there because I introduced them to it, or because they found out about it here at VeryVintageVegas. One of the dreams I’ve always had was that each of the neighborhoods get organized to promote not only the neighborhood itself, but all the various subsets of Mid Century Modern. That’s happened with gusto in Paradise Palms. What was needed was a strong dedicated leader to step to the plate and make it happen.  Clay and Denise Heximer – who wrote the article and took the pictures for this article in Atomic Ranch – are the heros who picked up the ball and ran with it. There are organized clean up days, monthly get to know your neighbor cocktail parties and more happening now. And with this article, Paradise Palms is getting the kind of national attention that it deserves. The article is in the fall edition of Atomic Ranch and is available on news stands now if you want a hard copy. If you want to see it now, the Paradise Palms website has the images available now. Speaking of which – I have two homes for sale at the moment in Paradise Palms. 3192 Seneca Drive and 3421 Sioux Way. Both are equity sellers (not shortsale and not bank owned). Dean Melissa just closed on a home on Caballero Drive on Friday,  and Olga and Will just closed this week on Burnham Ave. I also have several short sale listings in Paradise Palms that are working their way thru the bank approval process. Keep your eye on Paradise Palms. If you want to take a drive, you’ll find it on both sides of Desert Inn between Maryland Parkway and Eastern.

“He Used To Blog” About Mid Century Modern Homes And Historic Neighborhoods In Las Vegas Posted: 24 Aug 2012 11:39 AM PDT That’s how a past client introduced me to someone at a party this last weekend. I was so embarrassed. Actually, ashamed is a better word. Blogging was once something I really got off on doing  daily. For 4 years it was just part of my routine. I recognize the pattern. I used to work out at the gym regularly as well. You just stop one day and the next thing you know…… It’s not that there isn’t a readership or a following for information about the Historic Las Vegas Neighborhoods and Mid Century Modern. It’s not that I don’t have a lot of excuses. The good thing is that Google still finds me, and the phone keeps ringing, and the homes keep selling. I do manage to get over to Facebook, occasionally, but we all know what a time consuming trap that it can be. That said – and since you’re reading this, I wanted to tell you some of what I have been doing.   The media has been very kind to me this last year. Just this past week, I was one of the 4 people in the Real Estate community that was interviewed by Vegas Seven Magazine for an article about the “boom and bust and bottom” of Las Vegas Real Estate. The Las Vegas Weekly did a series on “Vegas Crusaders” in Early May. I was honored to be one of those for my advocacy of Mid Century Modern architecture and preservation. (HINT – if you click the link, you’ll have to use the right arrow to page 5 of the article) BLVD Magazine ran a nice story in April – “Jack LeVine, Vintage Vegas Realtor Sells Old School Charm” Symphony Park was kind enough to give me a spot in their “Urban Dweller” series                 Speaking of Selling Mid Century Modern Homes and Historic Neighborhoods in Las Vegas -It’s been a very busy year. Volume wise – I’m back to 4 or 5 homes a month. August has been insane with 8 closings scheduled. Three have already closed and 5 are set to happen next week. For example, Justin, Mike and Cory are moving this weekend into Rancho Park at Rancho and Alta; Olga and Will are getting a Bill Krisel designed home in Paradise Palms. Cliff and Edie are settling into their new Cinderella Ranch. Chris is moving this weekend into his new home in the John S. Park Historic Neighborhood. Dean and Melissa are busy getting ready to flip a great house on 17th Street in the Marycrest area of downtown (watch for it). There have been many dozens of others who didn’t get a shout out but I do appreciate the trust they put in me to help them buy or sell their properties. I’ve also been doing some re-modeling of my own home, and will be repainting the outside this fall. Along the way during the last year and half since the blogging became inconsistent – I lost my mother, all three of the beagles and had another heart attack. SEE – I told you there were some good excuses. However – all’s well now. Thanks for asking.   Well the first new post in months is finished and except for a few frustrating moments with the blog editor software – IT DIDN’T HURT A BIT! Tags: jack+levine, blvd+magazine, las+vegas+weekly

Archaeological Awareness and Historic Preservation Month For The State Of Nevada Posted: 01 May 2012 01:27 PM PDT Carson City, Nev. – May is Nevada’s Archaeological Awareness and Historic Preservation Month. Since the early 1980s, this month has celebrated archaeological and historic preservation issues in the state and encouraged both residents and visitors to explore and learn about Nevada’s significant archaeological and architectural treasures.   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

Have We Reached The Bottom In The Las Vegas Real Estate Market? Posted: 06 Feb 2012 12:01 PM PST I talked to 287 people in 2011 who didn’t buy any real estate last year. Almost all of them wanted to buy a mid century modern home, or wanted into an historic neighborhood in the center of Las Vegas. After all – that’s what I do. That alone speaks volumes about the ever growing popularity of Vintage Vegas. 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.

Some Holiday Cheer For Vintage Las Vegas Posted: 22 Dec 2011 11:49 PM PST First, the best holiday display among all the Vintage Las Vegas Neighborhoods. My dear friends Lee and Laura have really out-done themselves this year with their holiday wonderland. 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!

Happy Thanksgiving Posted: 23 Nov 2011 02:35 PM PST I wanted to share a small message of thanks to all of you who have managed your way through this most challenging year and supported me through mine.  Thanksgiving is one of my favorite Holidays.  There is no division due to religion, it is not for one single group, and there are no conflicts.  Thanksgiving is for all of us.  All you need is to be thankful.  And there is so much to be thankful for, although it may not be so easy to see at times. 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.

Las Vegas Mid Century Modern Weekend – Tickets Are Still Available Posted: 21 Oct 2011 12:29 PM PDT There’s still limited tickets available for the remaining events of the Las Vegas Mid Century Modern Weekend.   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.

The Last Chance To See The “Hammargren Home Of Nevada History” Posted: 15 Oct 2011 01:39 PM PDT Dr. Lonnie Hammargren once again will hold his world famous open house on Sunday, October 30, from Noon to 5pm at the “Hammargren Home Of Nevada History” 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 funÂ

First Friday Expands To Cover More Of Downtown Las Vegas Posted: 06 Oct 2011 04:56 PM PDT It’s the 9th anniversary of First Friday. With new leadership, the monthly flagship event of Downtown Las Vegas is expanded to include the Fremont East Entertainment District, as well as the traditional 18B Arts District. 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.

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