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Maynard Sloate oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Maynard Sloate conducted by Joyce Moore on June 12, 2007 for the All That Jazz Oral History Project. In this interview, Sloate discusses his early life in Los Angeles, California and his career as a jazz drummer. He remembers performing at the Tropicana, the Union Plaza, and becoming an entertainment director for production shows. Sloate describes the increases in price to attend a show in Las Vegas, and the use of taped music instead of live musicians. Lastly, Sloate talks about the challenges in making a career as a musician.

Vera Vann-Wilson oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Vera Vann-Wilson conducted by Pat van Betten on September 24, 2006 for the History of Blue Diamond Village in Nevada Oral History Project. In this interview, Vann-Wilson discusses her early life and moving to Blue Diamond, Nevada in 1980. She remembers her career as a musician, the Blue Diamond village during the early 1980s, and riding horses. Vann-Wilson talks about straw-bale and adobe construction, becoming a teacher for the Clark County School District, and preserving historic areas in Blue Diamond.

Wilverna Leavitt oral history interview

Abstract

Oral history interview with Wilvera Leavitt conducted by Pat van Betten on October 30, 2012 for the History of Blue Diamond Village in Nevada Oral History Project. In this interview, Leavitt talks about growing up in the township of Arden, Nevada. She talked about her father’s employment for the Blue Diamond Mine, the water tower in Arden, and moving to Mesquite, Nevada.

Cherina Kleven Papers

Abstract

The Cherina Kleven Papers (approximately 1988-2014) document the career of Cherina Kleven who was the first Asian-American appointed as Assistant Fire Chief for Las Vegas Fire & Rescue. The materials primarily include physical and digitized photographs of Kleven in her capacity as Assistant Fire Chief, magazine and newspaper articles featuring Kleven, and event programs.

Jackie Robinson Groundbreaking for Las Vegas Strip Arena

Abstract

Jackie Robinson Groundbreaking Event on October 29, 2014 and recorded for the African Americans in Las Vegas: a Collaborative Oral History Project. The event marked the construction start ofthe All Net Resort & Arena, a $1.4 billion arena, hotel and shopping center project in Las Vegas, Nevada. Robinson, a former NBA player, talks about the vision behind this project and its impact on the Las Vegas community.

Donna Andress Papers

Abstract

The Donna Andress Papers (1890-2024) contain the personal papers of Donna Andress, a longtime resident and activist in Southern Nevada. Materials include correspondence and newspaper clippings from the Nevada Welfare Committee, on which Andress served as chairperson during the 1970s, in addition to pamphlets and newsletters from various Nevada historical organizations and committees. The papers reflect her involvement with community organizations throughout Southern Nevada.

John S. Park Roundtable Discussion #4: Community Change/Gentrification

Abstract

Roundtable discussion with Michael Baker, Angela Kallus, Billy Logan, Jacqueline Maloy, Todd Jones, JoNell Thomas, Sarah Haggerty, Gregory S. Brown, and Dayvid Figler conducted by Claytee D. White on January 22, 2011 for the Voices of the Historic John S. Park Neighborhood Oral History Project. In this roundtable discussion, participants talk about their decision to move into the John S. Park neighborhood. The group describes the houses in the area during the early 2000s, changes in the house designs, and crimes in the area.

John S. Park Roundtable Discussion #3: The National Registry Process

Abstract

Roundtable discussion with Bob Bellis, Courtney Mooney, Yorgo Kagafas, and Keny Stewart conducted by Claytee D. White on December 12, 2009 for the Voices of the Historic John S. Park Neighborhood Oral History Project. In this roundtable discussion, participants talk about the Historic John S. Park Neighborhood Plan. Kagafas describes his role as project manager for the Plan and the process for obtaining a historic designation. Bellis talks about working with the City of Las Vegas, drafting the Plan, and the community’s input on the contents of the Plan.

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