Masonry Magazine June 1984 Page. 6
MCAA's 35th ANNIVERSARY
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Lines, too, will discount its fares 30 percent to MCAA members and their families traveling to the Conference. It would be pretty tough to beat those prices!
Downtown Las Vegas Has Much to Offer
So with all that good news, let's take a closer look at what Las Vegas itself has to offer. While much of the glamor and big-name entertainment undeniably lie on the famous "Strip" outside of the city, don't overlook downtown Las Vegas, where the "action" originated more than 50 years ago.
When casino gambling was legalized in Nevada in 1931, many of the residents modestly hoped their town would have at least one major resort to attract visitors and, of course, their pocketbooks. Today that five-block stretch on Fremont Street, more commonly known as "Casino Center" and "Glitter Gulch," is a supercharged concentration of eye-popping neon, first-rate hotels and bustling casinos.
After World War II, engineering improvements in the automobile and the nation's highway system spawned a travel-oriented society, some of whom "discovered" Las Vegas, probably more from curiosity than anything else.
And it was during this post-war era that both Fremont Street and the Strip expanded, each developing its own style, personality and clientele.
Abundant desert land along U.S. 95 (the Strip) permitted the construction of sprawling resort complexes. But downtown, available land was at a premium, so casinos were built wall-to-wall until today they span a five-block-long section fronting Fremont Street. This closeness has produced a carnival atmosphere where the constant whir of casino action spills out onto the sidewalks.
Despite the many changes that have taken place on Fremont Street during the past five decades, it still retains its heritage of early western hospitality. "There has always been a tradition of friendliness on Fremont Street, and fortunately it hasn't been lost," is the way one Nevadan put it.
Veteran gaming executives claim that Casino Center has many positive factors that make it attractive to tourists. For instance, you can garage-park your car and stroll to a dozen or more establishments and take advantage of very affordable prices. Drinks still sell for 50 cents or so at many places, and you can enjoy a hearty breakfast or buffet luncheon for less than $2 and a complete dinner for around $6.
"We operate with lower overhead than Strip resorts," commented the casino manager at a downtown hotel. "Therefore, we can offer very reasonable food, beverage and room prices. We don't pay $150,000 a week for entertainment. This is one reason why we can sell a drink for considerably less than they do on the Strip. And we bend over backward for our customers. We treat the two-dollar player the same as the five-hundred-dollar player."
During the past 53 years, friendly little Fremont Street has really come a long way. Back when it all started, the town's only neon sign hung above the Oasis Cafe, where today stands the glittering neon display of the famed Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. And once humble Fremont Street has evolved into the most brightly lighted thoroughfare in the world.
So plan to visit this unique, action-filled spot in colorful Las Vegas when you attend MCAA's Conference next March. More details about the Conference & Show will appear in Masonry and in your mail as they become available.