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Merle Frehner oral history interviews
Identifier
OH-02062
Abstract
Oral history interviews with Merle Frehner conducted by Elisabeth Nelson Patrick January 17, 1981 and January 19, 1981 for the UNLV University Libraries Oral History Collection. In the first interview, Frehner talks about his upbringing in Littlefield, Arizona and moving to St. Thomas, Nevada. He talks about driving heavy-duty freight wagons, transporting mining supplies, and the formation of a school district in St. Thomas. Frehner remembers the entertainment in St. Thomas during the 1920s, recreational activities, and commuting to Overton, Nevada to attend high school. Lastly, Frehner describes the local businesses in St. Thomas, miners residing in the town, and the town’s growing popularity after the construction of Arrowhead Trail (U. S. Highway 91). In the last interview, Frehner discusses transporting produce to Las Vegas, Nevada and Tonopah, Nevada during the late 1920s, the construction of Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead water levels overtaking St. Thomas.
Archival Collection
Photographs of Vegas Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-29
Description
The Vegas Motel sign sits at 2212 East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 2212 Fremont St
Sign details: This motel was not found on the Assessor's page so there was not a record found on when the building was constructed. In between April of 2014 and May of 2015 the building was demolished though the signs still remain.
Sign condition: 3- Paint is still relatively nice on the sign but now there are just remains of lightbulbs/neon tubing.
Sign form: Pylon and a roadside directional sign
Sign-specific description: The main pylon is a rectangular beam with light blue paint at the bottom and white on top that has incandescent light bulbs. In the middle of the sign there are horizontal MOTEL white block font letters with each letter in an individual red circle as well as the letters outlined in skeletal neon. There is a red arch coming out of the letter M and ending over the letter L, and this arch goes to the top of the sign. Above the letters is a blue curvilinear sign box with a plastic back lit sign that has blue letters stating VEGAS. On the top of the sign is a white star burst. There also is a smaller roadside directional sign to the west of the main sign that has a white board painted with red letters stating Vegas Motel there is a big curved red arrow also on this one pointing to where they would have entered the driveway.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit sign and incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Possibly once had a flasher for the incandescent light bulbs, but can not be determined because there are just remains of the light bulbs currently.
Sign environment: This location was on East Fremont near Eastern Ave where many other motels used to stand, but many have been demolished. Many of the signs of these motels though are still up on though they are not all in working condition.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has remnants of Googie styles with the star as well as the arch portion of the sign.
Sign - artistic significance: The starburst on top is very similar to the star on Betty Willis Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign.
Survey - research locations: Google map satellite and roadside view. Attempted assessor's page, UNLV special collections and Stephanie Roadside, as well as Vintage Las Vegas but no records found.
Survey - research notes: This location was very difficult to research since the building is no longer there as well as that if you search Vegas Motel into a database to research nearly every motel in Vegas shows up, but also nothing was found for this one.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-29
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign
Site address: 2212 Fremont St
Sign details: This motel was not found on the Assessor's page so there was not a record found on when the building was constructed. In between April of 2014 and May of 2015 the building was demolished though the signs still remain.
Sign condition: 3- Paint is still relatively nice on the sign but now there are just remains of lightbulbs/neon tubing.
Sign form: Pylon and a roadside directional sign
Sign-specific description: The main pylon is a rectangular beam with light blue paint at the bottom and white on top that has incandescent light bulbs. In the middle of the sign there are horizontal MOTEL white block font letters with each letter in an individual red circle as well as the letters outlined in skeletal neon. There is a red arch coming out of the letter M and ending over the letter L, and this arch goes to the top of the sign. Above the letters is a blue curvilinear sign box with a plastic back lit sign that has blue letters stating VEGAS. On the top of the sign is a white star burst. There also is a smaller roadside directional sign to the west of the main sign that has a white board painted with red letters stating Vegas Motel there is a big curved red arrow also on this one pointing to where they would have entered the driveway.
Sign - type of display: Neon, incandescent light bulbs and plastic back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Plastic back lit sign and incandescent light bulbs
Sign animation: Possibly once had a flasher for the incandescent light bulbs, but can not be determined because there are just remains of the light bulbs currently.
Sign environment: This location was on East Fremont near Eastern Ave where many other motels used to stand, but many have been demolished. Many of the signs of these motels though are still up on though they are not all in working condition.
Sign - thematic influences: This sign has remnants of Googie styles with the star as well as the arch portion of the sign.
Sign - artistic significance: The starburst on top is very similar to the star on Betty Willis Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign.
Survey - research locations: Google map satellite and roadside view. Attempted assessor's page, UNLV special collections and Stephanie Roadside, as well as Vintage Las Vegas but no records found.
Survey - research notes: This location was very difficult to research since the building is no longer there as well as that if you search Vegas Motel into a database to research nearly every motel in Vegas shows up, but also nothing was found for this one.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-29
Sign keywords: Pylon; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Backlit; Flashing; Roadside; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Octapharma Plasma sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-02
Description
The Octapharma Plasma center sits at 1732 Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1732 Fremont St
Sign owner: Octapharma Plasma Inc.
Sign details: The original construction year of the building is 1977. This located opened as an Octapharma plasma donation facility in 2010. Octapharma was created by Wolfgang Margurre in Switzerland in 1983 to create plasma products to help save lives.
Sign condition: 4-Relatively recent renovation of their roadside sign and their entrance sign still has bright colors
Sign form: Roadside sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: The roadside sign is a long thin steel rod coming out of the ground with a sharp tip. (almost looks like a big toothpick coming out of the ground) This portion of the sign used to be red from the previous owners of this property when it was named "Pyramid". After 2011 Octapharma had this portion of the sign painted blue for them. Close to the sharp tip of this sign there is a sign box that holds plastic backlit signs. For Octapharma it is a white plastic background with blue "Octapharma Plasma" in block type letters. Above their entrance they have blue plastic channeled letters spelling out "Octapharma Plasma" which is backlit making it illuminate blue at night.
Sign - type of display: Back lit plastic sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED and Plastic back lit signs
Sign environment: This property is far East Fremont on the intersection of Bruce Street which is about a block from the main intersection of Eastern and Fremont St. This location has many motels surrounding it as well as some convenience stores.
Sign - date of installation: Main roadside sign was repurposed for Octapharma around 2010 so this sign does date back to at least 2007
Sign - date of redesign/move: Roadside Sign redesigned for Octapharma around 2010, with repainting the red portion of the roadside sign blue.
Sign - thematic influences: This style of sign is very similar to the sign that PublicUs has which is just about a block West of this company. These signs are similar with both being re-purposed and repainted when their company started to use their sign as well as the thin steel base and the back lit plastic sign.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, Octapharma website http://octapharmaplasma.com/donor/center/18536 , google map satellite and roadside view for images and transition of signage
Survey - research notes: Octapharma has research and donation centers in 113 countries to help create plasma based medicine to help cure people with immune disorders, as well as burn victims.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-02
Sign keywords: Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Roadside; Building-front design; Pole sign
Site address: 1732 Fremont St
Sign owner: Octapharma Plasma Inc.
Sign details: The original construction year of the building is 1977. This located opened as an Octapharma plasma donation facility in 2010. Octapharma was created by Wolfgang Margurre in Switzerland in 1983 to create plasma products to help save lives.
Sign condition: 4-Relatively recent renovation of their roadside sign and their entrance sign still has bright colors
Sign form: Roadside sign and entrance sign
Sign-specific description: The roadside sign is a long thin steel rod coming out of the ground with a sharp tip. (almost looks like a big toothpick coming out of the ground) This portion of the sign used to be red from the previous owners of this property when it was named "Pyramid". After 2011 Octapharma had this portion of the sign painted blue for them. Close to the sharp tip of this sign there is a sign box that holds plastic backlit signs. For Octapharma it is a white plastic background with blue "Octapharma Plasma" in block type letters. Above their entrance they have blue plastic channeled letters spelling out "Octapharma Plasma" which is backlit making it illuminate blue at night.
Sign - type of display: Back lit plastic sign
Sign - media: Steel and plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED and Plastic back lit signs
Sign environment: This property is far East Fremont on the intersection of Bruce Street which is about a block from the main intersection of Eastern and Fremont St. This location has many motels surrounding it as well as some convenience stores.
Sign - date of installation: Main roadside sign was repurposed for Octapharma around 2010 so this sign does date back to at least 2007
Sign - date of redesign/move: Roadside Sign redesigned for Octapharma around 2010, with repainting the red portion of the roadside sign blue.
Sign - thematic influences: This style of sign is very similar to the sign that PublicUs has which is just about a block West of this company. These signs are similar with both being re-purposed and repainted when their company started to use their sign as well as the thin steel base and the back lit plastic sign.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's page, Octapharma website http://octapharmaplasma.com/donor/center/18536 , google map satellite and roadside view for images and transition of signage
Survey - research notes: Octapharma has research and donation centers in 113 countries to help create plasma based medicine to help cure people with immune disorders, as well as burn victims.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-02
Sign keywords: Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Roadside; Building-front design; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Star Motel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-08-21
Description
The Star Motel sign sits at 1418 South Third Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 1418 S 3rd St
Sign owner: M V Star Group LLC
Sign details: 0.33 acre lot, originally constructed in 1947.
Sign condition: 4 - The sign is in excellent condition, but it does not light up at night.
Sign form: Pole sign
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is attached to a silver pole that extends out toward 3 rd St and is planted into the ground. On the top of the pole is a bright, blue star with a smaller white star in the center. The neon tubes attached to the sign are in concentric star shapes radiating out from the center. Extending out from the star to 3 rd st and curving back towards the pole that hold the sign is a trail implying that this is a shooting star. The first third of this trail is white and then the paint changes to yellow and remains yellow for the rest of the trail. The entire trail of the star is covered with yellow incandescent light bulbs. There are three very thin steel poles on the opposite side of the star from where the trail is attached. These smaller poles run parallel to the main pole of the sign and end about the same place where the tail of the star ends at the other side of the pole. Attached to these thin poles are stars ranging in size and made out of neon tubes. About at the midpoint of the main pole supporting the sign is a minimal, bright blue arrow that has "MOTEL" painted on it in bold white letters with a black outline. Neon tubes in the shape of each letter are attached to the center of the letters. Attached to the bottom of the tail end of this arrow is a smaller, minimal, black arrow that has "VACANCY" painted on it in bold white letters. Neon tubes in the shape of these letters fill this sign as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Unknown, as it no longer lights. However according to RoadArch.com, at one time it might have flashed.
Sign environment: The property is in the heart of the Arts District. It resides next to many other small motels in this neighborhood. It is only a few blocks away from Main Street and Charleston where there are many art galleries, restaurants, and vintage boutiques.
Sign - date of installation: c. 1950s
Sign - date of redesign/move: Based on earlier photographs from the 1950's, the sign's main star that is blue with a smaller white star in the center was originally all white. Also, the white and yellow trail it leaves behind was initially all yellow as well. It is also believed that there were more stars attached to the metal bars that extend from the blue and white star and that they would have flashed.
Sign - thematic influences: A popular theme for properties during this time was the Space Age and this is sign is an example of that influential theme.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign shows an influence of the Space Age that was going on during the late 50's. Many motel signs in the city evoked the theme for the property and this sign does so for the Star Motel.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, Vintage Vegas, www.roadarch.com
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-21
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Pole sign
Site address: 1418 S 3rd St
Sign owner: M V Star Group LLC
Sign details: 0.33 acre lot, originally constructed in 1947.
Sign condition: 4 - The sign is in excellent condition, but it does not light up at night.
Sign form: Pole sign
Sign-specific description: The sign itself is attached to a silver pole that extends out toward 3 rd St and is planted into the ground. On the top of the pole is a bright, blue star with a smaller white star in the center. The neon tubes attached to the sign are in concentric star shapes radiating out from the center. Extending out from the star to 3 rd st and curving back towards the pole that hold the sign is a trail implying that this is a shooting star. The first third of this trail is white and then the paint changes to yellow and remains yellow for the rest of the trail. The entire trail of the star is covered with yellow incandescent light bulbs. There are three very thin steel poles on the opposite side of the star from where the trail is attached. These smaller poles run parallel to the main pole of the sign and end about the same place where the tail of the star ends at the other side of the pole. Attached to these thin poles are stars ranging in size and made out of neon tubes. About at the midpoint of the main pole supporting the sign is a minimal, bright blue arrow that has "MOTEL" painted on it in bold white letters with a black outline. Neon tubes in the shape of each letter are attached to the center of the letters. Attached to the bottom of the tail end of this arrow is a smaller, minimal, black arrow that has "VACANCY" painted on it in bold white letters. Neon tubes in the shape of these letters fill this sign as well.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescent
Sign - media: Steel
Sign animation: Unknown, as it no longer lights. However according to RoadArch.com, at one time it might have flashed.
Sign environment: The property is in the heart of the Arts District. It resides next to many other small motels in this neighborhood. It is only a few blocks away from Main Street and Charleston where there are many art galleries, restaurants, and vintage boutiques.
Sign - date of installation: c. 1950s
Sign - date of redesign/move: Based on earlier photographs from the 1950's, the sign's main star that is blue with a smaller white star in the center was originally all white. Also, the white and yellow trail it leaves behind was initially all yellow as well. It is also believed that there were more stars attached to the metal bars that extend from the blue and white star and that they would have flashed.
Sign - thematic influences: A popular theme for properties during this time was the Space Age and this is sign is an example of that influential theme.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign shows an influence of the Space Age that was going on during the late 50's. Many motel signs in the city evoked the theme for the property and this sign does so for the Star Motel.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, Vintage Vegas, www.roadarch.com
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-21
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of El Sombrero Mexican Bistro sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-08-28
Description
The El Sombrero Mexican Bistro sign sits at 807 South Main Street. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 807 S Main St
Sign owner: Irma Aguirre
Sign details: This modest, family-owned restaurant has been in town since the 1950's. It was then sold to the current owner, Irma Aguirre, and closed for a brief moment for renovation in 2014. They have been serving favorites like burritos, enchiladas, taco, and tamales for six decades. Even with their modern updates, they are still staying as true to their past as they possibly can.
Sign condition: 5, the sign is still in beautiful condition.
Sign form: Hanging sign
Sign-specific description: The sign for the business extends out from the property towards the street. The rectangular sign is a bright blue that matches the color of the building. On the top outer corner of the sign sits a sombrero with a red and white striped band in the middle portion of the hat. The words "El Sombrero" are painted on the brim of the hat. There are skeletal neon tubes outline the hat and the words "El Sombrero." Next to this is a small sign, within the overall design of the rest of the sign, that is designed to look ripped on both sides and reads "Mexican Food" in red letters. Neon tubes outline these words. Underneath these elements of the sign is the word "CAFE" in bold white text with a thin black border. Neon tubes fill these letters as well. Extending from the bottom of the sign is a small rectangle with the building number "807" painted in black.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign environment: The area that this restaurant sits is right between the Arts District and the excitement of Fremont Street. The locations nearby is a bail bond store, a supply stores for gaming, lawn equipment, and discount appliances. It is also a short distance from the North Premium Outlets.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: Possibly 2014, they closed this year to renovate the building and the sign looks different today from earlier images of the sign. Before they renovated the building the sign included some sort of striped scarf/cloth underneath the sombrero. However, after the renovation this must have been painted over.
Sign - thematic influences: The sombrero on the sign also lends itself to the name of the property and the "Mexican Food" sign within the sign explicitly tells you what type of restaurant this is. It tells you the theme right away.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign itself is very simple, but the few specific design elements of the sign are very distinct to the property. The sombrero is a nice touch to emphasize the name of the restaurant and the "Mexican Food" sign is helpful in letting both motorists and pedestrians know what type of food they serve.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas weekly article https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2014/nov/19/revamped-el-sombrero-cafe-mexican-downtown/ , Review Journal article https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/el-sombrero-a-mix-of-modern-classic/, asessor's page
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-28
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Hanging; Cantilever construction
Site address: 807 S Main St
Sign owner: Irma Aguirre
Sign details: This modest, family-owned restaurant has been in town since the 1950's. It was then sold to the current owner, Irma Aguirre, and closed for a brief moment for renovation in 2014. They have been serving favorites like burritos, enchiladas, taco, and tamales for six decades. Even with their modern updates, they are still staying as true to their past as they possibly can.
Sign condition: 5, the sign is still in beautiful condition.
Sign form: Hanging sign
Sign-specific description: The sign for the business extends out from the property towards the street. The rectangular sign is a bright blue that matches the color of the building. On the top outer corner of the sign sits a sombrero with a red and white striped band in the middle portion of the hat. The words "El Sombrero" are painted on the brim of the hat. There are skeletal neon tubes outline the hat and the words "El Sombrero." Next to this is a small sign, within the overall design of the rest of the sign, that is designed to look ripped on both sides and reads "Mexican Food" in red letters. Neon tubes outline these words. Underneath these elements of the sign is the word "CAFE" in bold white text with a thin black border. Neon tubes fill these letters as well. Extending from the bottom of the sign is a small rectangle with the building number "807" painted in black.
Sign - type of display: Neon
Sign - media: Steel
Sign environment: The area that this restaurant sits is right between the Arts District and the excitement of Fremont Street. The locations nearby is a bail bond store, a supply stores for gaming, lawn equipment, and discount appliances. It is also a short distance from the North Premium Outlets.
Sign - date of installation: Circa 1950's
Sign - date of redesign/move: Possibly 2014, they closed this year to renovate the building and the sign looks different today from earlier images of the sign. Before they renovated the building the sign included some sort of striped scarf/cloth underneath the sombrero. However, after the renovation this must have been painted over.
Sign - thematic influences: The sombrero on the sign also lends itself to the name of the property and the "Mexican Food" sign within the sign explicitly tells you what type of restaurant this is. It tells you the theme right away.
Sign - artistic significance: The sign itself is very simple, but the few specific design elements of the sign are very distinct to the property. The sombrero is a nice touch to emphasize the name of the restaurant and the "Mexican Food" sign is helpful in letting both motorists and pedestrians know what type of food they serve.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas weekly article https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2014/nov/19/revamped-el-sombrero-cafe-mexican-downtown/ , Review Journal article https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/el-sombrero-a-mix-of-modern-classic/, asessor's page
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-08-28
Sign keywords: Neon; Steel; Hanging; Cantilever construction
Mixed Content
Photographs of Fiesta sign at dusk, Las Vegas (Nev.), April 2, 2017
Date
2017-04-02
2017-09-06
Description
The Fiesta Rancho Hotel and Casino sits at 2400 North Rancho Drive. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 2400 N Rancho Dr
Sign owner: Stations Casinos Inc.
Sign details: This location was constructed in 1995 as the Fiesta, but in 2001 Stations Casino bought out the casino and renamed it Fiesta Rancho. Stations Casinos Inc. that own this casino have a chain of 9 resort casinos and a number of smaller casinos in the Las Vegas Valley that are popular along the local community here in Las Vegas. The Fiesta Rancho has a sister property named Fiesta Henderson which also has an ice rink as well as identical sign designs.
Sign condition: 4 - the lights still shine very brightly on this one but the colors on the sign have faded over the years and look more like pastel colors when they used to be very vibrant
Sign form: Marquee and Entrance Sign
Sign-specific description: The marquee on Rancho Dr. has concrete bases with a big plasma screen tv with a reader board underneath it. Above the T.V. screen they have a huge design with a purple background, but around this is yellow, orange, blue, green and pink streamers. These all illuminate the same color as the paint at night time. In the middle of the streamer design is channeled letters "Fiesta" in a curvy print font, and then the words "Casino Hotel" underneath it in a normal block type font. The letters illuminate white at night time. Above their main entrance to the casino they have big channeled letters stating " Fiesta" in the same font to their other signs that contain incandescent bulbs that flash at night. Underneath the incandescent "Fiesta" there are red channeled Neon signs stating "Race Sports Keno Bingo" that illuminate red.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescents
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader Board and Plasma Screen
Sign animation: Flasher for incandescent bulbs
Sign environment: This property is on North Rancho about a mile north of the 95 highway. It is located right next door to Texas Station, and is near a residential area.
Sign manufacturer: Possibly YESCO
Sign - date of installation: c. 2001
Sign - thematic influences: The theme of the casino matches the sign with the fun party colors and ribbon streamers that they depict on their sign looks like a fiesta.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is practically identical to the signage for Fiesta Henderson, for they based their sign off of this Fiesta Rancho sign design.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, company website
Survey - research notes: Fiesta Rancho website https://fiestarancho.sclv.com/, Stations Casino page https://www.sclv.com/
Survey - other remarks: https://www.sclv.com/Casinos/PropertyMap Stations Casino website has an interactive map of their locations
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Reader board; Marquee; Video screen; Pylon
Site address: 2400 N Rancho Dr
Sign owner: Stations Casinos Inc.
Sign details: This location was constructed in 1995 as the Fiesta, but in 2001 Stations Casino bought out the casino and renamed it Fiesta Rancho. Stations Casinos Inc. that own this casino have a chain of 9 resort casinos and a number of smaller casinos in the Las Vegas Valley that are popular along the local community here in Las Vegas. The Fiesta Rancho has a sister property named Fiesta Henderson which also has an ice rink as well as identical sign designs.
Sign condition: 4 - the lights still shine very brightly on this one but the colors on the sign have faded over the years and look more like pastel colors when they used to be very vibrant
Sign form: Marquee and Entrance Sign
Sign-specific description: The marquee on Rancho Dr. has concrete bases with a big plasma screen tv with a reader board underneath it. Above the T.V. screen they have a huge design with a purple background, but around this is yellow, orange, blue, green and pink streamers. These all illuminate the same color as the paint at night time. In the middle of the streamer design is channeled letters "Fiesta" in a curvy print font, and then the words "Casino Hotel" underneath it in a normal block type font. The letters illuminate white at night time. Above their main entrance to the casino they have big channeled letters stating " Fiesta" in the same font to their other signs that contain incandescent bulbs that flash at night. Underneath the incandescent "Fiesta" there are red channeled Neon signs stating "Race Sports Keno Bingo" that illuminate red.
Sign - type of display: Neon and Incandescents
Sign - media: Steel
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader Board and Plasma Screen
Sign animation: Flasher for incandescent bulbs
Sign environment: This property is on North Rancho about a mile north of the 95 highway. It is located right next door to Texas Station, and is near a residential area.
Sign manufacturer: Possibly YESCO
Sign - date of installation: c. 2001
Sign - thematic influences: The theme of the casino matches the sign with the fun party colors and ribbon streamers that they depict on their sign looks like a fiesta.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is practically identical to the signage for Fiesta Henderson, for they based their sign off of this Fiesta Rancho sign design.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website, company website
Survey - research notes: Fiesta Rancho website https://fiestarancho.sclv.com/, Stations Casino page https://www.sclv.com/
Survey - other remarks: https://www.sclv.com/Casinos/PropertyMap Stations Casino website has an interactive map of their locations
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-06
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Flashing; Reader board; Marquee; Video screen; Pylon
Mixed Content
Photographs of Boulder Station sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 27, 2017
Date
2017-03-27
2017-09-27
Description
The Boulder Station Hotel and Casino sign sits at 4111 Boulder Highway. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 4111 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Stations Casino Company
Sign details: This location opened in 1991 and is considered a locals casino. They have a similar train station theme to a few of the other Stations Casino properties used to have. This location also holds a movie theater.
Sign condition: 5- still in very good condition and lights up very brightly at night still
Sign form: Pylon, Porte cochere and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The main pylon sign has a two white steel bases with a reader board on the bottom, a plasma t.v. screen on top of the reader board and the main portion of the sign with their logo above. Their main logo is a green train front with a yellow neon trim with curved maroon ovals on it stating "Boulder Station" and "Hotel-Casino" underneath it in channeled white letters that contain flashing incandescent. The porte cochere sign above their valet is in a rainbow shape stating "Boulder Station" in sparkling incandescent. With red letters underneath stating "Hotel" in red neon. Also on the main hotel tower there are the same "Boulder Station" letters in incandescent lights outlined in red neon as well. Also the word "Casino" is also in incandescent lights on the side of the building. There are also LED lights that are chasing outlining the whole building making a semi-decorated shed look.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent, LED, LED plasma screen
Sign - media: Steel and plastic for reader board
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and Plasma screen
Sign animation: Flashing incandescents and Chasing LED lights
Sign environment: This location is on Boulder Hwy on the way to Henderson/Boulder City. This location is near a residential areas and is a neighbor to a Motel 6.
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since at least 2007
Sign - thematic influences: Their train theme is portrayed well in their pylon sign. Also the train theme could be considered an homage to early Vegas history as a railroad stop.
Sign - artistic significance: The pylon sign is very similar to the Fiesta Rancho sign which is also a station casino with the reader board and plasma screen. This sign is almost identical in design to the old Palace Station sign.
Survey - research locations: Palace Station sign. Surveyor Notes 1. Research locations (archAsessor's page, Boulder Station website https://boulderstation.sclv.com/ , Station's Casino website https://www.sclv.com/, google maps satellite/ road view
Survey - research notes: Station's Casinos have 10 casinos in Las Vegas and have been present in the community for the past 40 years.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-27
Sign keywords: Pylon; Porte-cochère; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Flashing; Reader board; Chasing; Plasma display
Site address: 4111 Boulder Hwy
Sign owner: Stations Casino Company
Sign details: This location opened in 1991 and is considered a locals casino. They have a similar train station theme to a few of the other Stations Casino properties used to have. This location also holds a movie theater.
Sign condition: 5- still in very good condition and lights up very brightly at night still
Sign form: Pylon, Porte cochere and semi-decorated shed
Sign-specific description: The main pylon sign has a two white steel bases with a reader board on the bottom, a plasma t.v. screen on top of the reader board and the main portion of the sign with their logo above. Their main logo is a green train front with a yellow neon trim with curved maroon ovals on it stating "Boulder Station" and "Hotel-Casino" underneath it in channeled white letters that contain flashing incandescent. The porte cochere sign above their valet is in a rainbow shape stating "Boulder Station" in sparkling incandescent. With red letters underneath stating "Hotel" in red neon. Also on the main hotel tower there are the same "Boulder Station" letters in incandescent lights outlined in red neon as well. Also the word "Casino" is also in incandescent lights on the side of the building. There are also LED lights that are chasing outlining the whole building making a semi-decorated shed look.
Sign - type of display: Neon, Incandescent, LED, LED plasma screen
Sign - media: Steel and plastic for reader board
Sign - non-neon treatments: Reader board and Plasma screen
Sign animation: Flashing incandescents and Chasing LED lights
Sign environment: This location is on Boulder Hwy on the way to Henderson/Boulder City. This location is near a residential areas and is a neighbor to a Motel 6.
Sign - date of installation: Has been up since at least 2007
Sign - thematic influences: Their train theme is portrayed well in their pylon sign. Also the train theme could be considered an homage to early Vegas history as a railroad stop.
Sign - artistic significance: The pylon sign is very similar to the Fiesta Rancho sign which is also a station casino with the reader board and plasma screen. This sign is almost identical in design to the old Palace Station sign.
Survey - research locations: Palace Station sign. Surveyor Notes 1. Research locations (archAsessor's page, Boulder Station website https://boulderstation.sclv.com/ , Station's Casino website https://www.sclv.com/, google maps satellite/ road view
Survey - research notes: Station's Casinos have 10 casinos in Las Vegas and have been present in the community for the past 40 years.
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-27
Sign keywords: Pylon; Porte-cochère; Neon; Incandescent; Steel; Plastic; Flashing; Reader board; Chasing; Plasma display
Mixed Content
Photographs of Stateside Lounge sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-10
Description
The Stateside Lounge sign sits at 931 North Las Vegas Boulevard. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Data Sheet.
Site address: 931 N Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Laura and Doris Atchinson
Sign details: This bar opened up in 1996. They aim to be a place for people to have a cold drink and great food. It is a very popular hangout stop for baseball fans since it is within walking distance to Cashman Field. They are also known for their karaoke nights.
Sign condition: 4, the sign is still in pretty good condition. It just looks worn from weather and time.
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center
Sign-specific description: This pole sign sits along Las Vegas Boulevard and is extremely visible for motorist and pedestrians. A black rectangular pole supports the two portions that make up this sign. The top portion is a wide rectangular shape and both sides of the sign have the same design on them. Each side has a red background with the word "Stateside" in white script open cabinet letters along the top of it. Under this is a plastic backlit sign in the shape of the state of Nevada. The words "JUST ONE MORE" in bold red text are in the in the middle of the Nevada sign as well as an illustration of a foamy glass of beer. Under this is the word "Lounge" in white script open cabinet letters. Surrounding the outside of this sign is a line of incandescent light bulbs that chase. Under this sign is a fairly large backlit message board.
Sign - type of display: Neon, backlit, incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This bar sits very close to Cashman Field and is just north of the Cultural Corridor. It is down the street from the Las Vegas Library, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, and the Neon Museum. It is also just down the road from Fremont Street.
Sign - thematic influences: Since the bar is called "Stateside Lounge," featuring the state of Nevada emphasizes the theme of the bar. Also, the illustration of the beer and the "Just One More" on the sign articulate that the property is a bar.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is fairly minimal, but has a few striking details that make it unique compared to other bars throughout the city. Featuring the shape of the state of Nevada lets people know that this sign is a nod to the bar's home state. Also, the "Just One More" text in the center of the Nevada shape as well as the illustration of the beer make the property seem very welcoming and like somewhere you wound wants to spend time at.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website
Survey - research notes: There is no specific date of any redesign; however, in earlier photographs the sign was originally blue with a red pole instead of being red with a black pole.
Survey - other remarks: https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/sports-columns/ron- kantowski/51s-fans- dont-feel- likealiens-at- stateside-lounge/ https://www.yelp.com/biz/stateside-lounge- las-vegas
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-10
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Chasing; Roadside; Pole sign
Site address: 931 N Las Vegas Blvd
Sign owner: Laura and Doris Atchinson
Sign details: This bar opened up in 1996. They aim to be a place for people to have a cold drink and great food. It is a very popular hangout stop for baseball fans since it is within walking distance to Cashman Field. They are also known for their karaoke nights.
Sign condition: 4, the sign is still in pretty good condition. It just looks worn from weather and time.
Sign form: Roadside pole with a message center
Sign-specific description: This pole sign sits along Las Vegas Boulevard and is extremely visible for motorist and pedestrians. A black rectangular pole supports the two portions that make up this sign. The top portion is a wide rectangular shape and both sides of the sign have the same design on them. Each side has a red background with the word "Stateside" in white script open cabinet letters along the top of it. Under this is a plastic backlit sign in the shape of the state of Nevada. The words "JUST ONE MORE" in bold red text are in the in the middle of the Nevada sign as well as an illustration of a foamy glass of beer. Under this is the word "Lounge" in white script open cabinet letters. Surrounding the outside of this sign is a line of incandescent light bulbs that chase. Under this sign is a fairly large backlit message board.
Sign - type of display: Neon, backlit, incandescent
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: Paint
Sign animation: Chasing
Notes: incandescent light bulbs
Sign environment: This bar sits very close to Cashman Field and is just north of the Cultural Corridor. It is down the street from the Las Vegas Library, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, and the Neon Museum. It is also just down the road from Fremont Street.
Sign - thematic influences: Since the bar is called "Stateside Lounge," featuring the state of Nevada emphasizes the theme of the bar. Also, the illustration of the beer and the "Just One More" on the sign articulate that the property is a bar.
Sign - artistic significance: This sign is fairly minimal, but has a few striking details that make it unique compared to other bars throughout the city. Featuring the shape of the state of Nevada lets people know that this sign is a nod to the bar's home state. Also, the "Just One More" text in the center of the Nevada shape as well as the illustration of the beer make the property seem very welcoming and like somewhere you wound wants to spend time at.
Survey - research locations: Assessor's website
Survey - research notes: There is no specific date of any redesign; however, in earlier photographs the sign was originally blue with a red pole instead of being red with a black pole.
Survey - other remarks: https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/sports-columns/ron- kantowski/51s-fans- dont-feel- likealiens-at- stateside-lounge/ https://www.yelp.com/biz/stateside-lounge- las-vegas
Surveyor: Lauren Vaccaro
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-10
Sign keywords: Neon; Incandescent; Backlit; Steel; Plastic; Paint; Chasing; Roadside; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Photographs of Las Vegas Hostel sign, Las Vegas (Nev.), March 3, 2017
Date
2017-03-03
2017-09-09
Description
The Las Vegas Hostel sign sits at 1322 East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Information about the sign is available in the Southern Nevada Neon Survey Sheet.
Site address: 1322 E Fremont St
Sign owner: Downtown Lodging LLC
Sign details: This building was originally constructed in 1973 for commercial living accommodations and motel purposes. Previous to the Las Vegas Hostel opening in late 2014/early 2015 it was USA hostel whom used the sign box that the Las Vegas Hostel currently uses today. They have 38 rooms of different variety and 158 beds as a cheaper option that the hotels. They also offer packages to do tours of surrounding places such and the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam. They also claim to be the only Hostel in Las Vegas with a pool.
Sign condition: 4.5- The sign box was recently repainted and the plastic portion of this sign is relatively new and both still are in good condition
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This sign has a reddish/pink steel beam base. There are two sign boxes the top one is a rectangle shape and the bottom one is a oval-rectangular shape. Currently the top rectangle box does not have any signage in it but if it did it would be a plastic or steel sign that would be down lit by an LED spotlight. The bottom one has a plastic back lit sign with the hostel's logo. Their logo entails "Las Vegas Hostels" in modern bright colored block fonts. The "Las" letters are a bright orange, the "Vegas" letters are a magenta pink, and "Hostels" in a bright light blue.
Sign - type of display: Plastic Back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED and Plastic back lit signage
Sign environment: On the Intersection of East Fremont St and 14th street. A few blocks from the Fremont East District but is in a neighborhood with many different motels though many of them are currently closed
Sign - date of installation: The sign boxes have been up like this since at least 2007 but with different logos within the sign boxes
Sign - date of redesign/move: Late 2014/ early 2015 they repainted the beam and boxes of the sign and inserted the Las Vegas Hostel logo.
Sign - thematic influences: Since this sign was re-purposed and redesigned it shows how Vegas is constantly changing but can reuse old signs from previous properties.
Sign - artistic significance: The bright colors in the sign show that they are going for a modern vibe which works since they opened in the past few years and have events such as pool parties that appeal to the youth that comes through Vegas.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Hostel Website http://lasvegashostel.net/en_US/rooms/, Assessor's page, google maps satellite and roadside view
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Pole sign
Site address: 1322 E Fremont St
Sign owner: Downtown Lodging LLC
Sign details: This building was originally constructed in 1973 for commercial living accommodations and motel purposes. Previous to the Las Vegas Hostel opening in late 2014/early 2015 it was USA hostel whom used the sign box that the Las Vegas Hostel currently uses today. They have 38 rooms of different variety and 158 beds as a cheaper option that the hotels. They also offer packages to do tours of surrounding places such and the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam. They also claim to be the only Hostel in Las Vegas with a pool.
Sign condition: 4.5- The sign box was recently repainted and the plastic portion of this sign is relatively new and both still are in good condition
Sign form: Pylon
Sign-specific description: This sign has a reddish/pink steel beam base. There are two sign boxes the top one is a rectangle shape and the bottom one is a oval-rectangular shape. Currently the top rectangle box does not have any signage in it but if it did it would be a plastic or steel sign that would be down lit by an LED spotlight. The bottom one has a plastic back lit sign with the hostel's logo. Their logo entails "Las Vegas Hostels" in modern bright colored block fonts. The "Las" letters are a bright orange, the "Vegas" letters are a magenta pink, and "Hostels" in a bright light blue.
Sign - type of display: Plastic Back lit sign
Sign - media: Steel and Plastic
Sign - non-neon treatments: LED and Plastic back lit signage
Sign environment: On the Intersection of East Fremont St and 14th street. A few blocks from the Fremont East District but is in a neighborhood with many different motels though many of them are currently closed
Sign - date of installation: The sign boxes have been up like this since at least 2007 but with different logos within the sign boxes
Sign - date of redesign/move: Late 2014/ early 2015 they repainted the beam and boxes of the sign and inserted the Las Vegas Hostel logo.
Sign - thematic influences: Since this sign was re-purposed and redesigned it shows how Vegas is constantly changing but can reuse old signs from previous properties.
Sign - artistic significance: The bright colors in the sign show that they are going for a modern vibe which works since they opened in the past few years and have events such as pool parties that appeal to the youth that comes through Vegas.
Survey - research locations: Las Vegas Hostel Website http://lasvegashostel.net/en_US/rooms/, Assessor's page, google maps satellite and roadside view
Surveyor: Emily Fellmer
Survey - date completed: 2017-09-09
Sign keywords: Plastic; Backlit; Steel; Pole sign
Mixed Content
Brian Shepherd oral history interview: transcript
Date
2020-07-13
Description
Oral history interview of Brian Shepherd conducted by Claytee D. White on July 13, 2020 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. Brian Shepherd, Chief of Staff of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1107, represents health care and public sector employees across the state of Nevada. SEIU advocates for fair wages, quality health care, and the "secret ballot" for all union employees. Shepherd discusses his work with the union, racism, discrimination, inequality, organizing protests, the Black Lives Matter movement, and social justice.
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