Chapter 159: Hardy Casino

A few days later, Mike flew from New York to Las Vegas, where Hardy personally picked him up at the airport. The two greeted each other warmly with a hug.

"Hardy, thank you for your help with the Corleone family," Mike said sincerely.

"Mr. Vito has already expressed his gratitude," Hardy replied with a smile.

"No, this is my personal thanks. I understand how precarious things were for the family. Without your help, the other families wouldn't have been inclined to negotiate," Mike said.

Hardy smiled, "Enough of that. Let me show you the Flamingo Casino."

The two arrived at the Flamingo Casino, admiring the luxurious lobby, the rows of gaming tables, the opulent hotel decor, and the rare lake amidst the Nevada desert.

"It's stunning here. No wonder it cost so much. What's your plan for the casino now?" Mike asked.

Hardy outlined his business strategy. He planned to enhance the casino's facilities, improve its appeal as a leisure destination, boost publicity through newspapers, magazines, radio, and TV, and implement various marketing tactics, including timed sweepstakes and gambling contests.

"I've also arranged for the construction company to complete the remaining work within three months. We aim to open the casino in early October, a great time for Las Vegas weather," Hardy continued. "We're also setting up an airline route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and launching a bus service. I'm considering starting a betting TV channel for live gambling information and bets."

Mike was impressed by Hardy's comprehensive plan. It was evident that Hardy had mobilized substantial resources and had a clear vision for the casino's future.

"Have you thought about changing the casino's name?" Mike asked after some consideration.

Hardy was taken aback. "What do you have in mind?"

"I've heard that Flamingo was named after Siegel's nickname for his lover. Since we own the casino now, I think it's time for a new name—how about Hardy Casino?" Mike suggested with a smile.

Hardy paused and then laughed, clearly pleased with the idea.

Later that afternoon, the two went to the Las Vegas City Government to confirm the new shares. Mike acquired 39% of the casino shares from the three original families, and Hardy's shares increased to 61% after Siegel's shares were transferred. The casino's name was officially changed to "Hardy Hotel."

Back at the casino, Mike handed Hardy a check for three million dollars. "Hadi, this is for the share purchase."

Hardy accepted the check. "Thank you. This will help cover the construction costs and the grand opening."

The next day, the team from HD Pictures arrived to shoot promotional material. Hardy had invited Ava Gardner and Heidi Lamarr to feature in the promotional video, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the casino's image.

The casino was abuzz with activity as neon lights flashed and guests enjoyed gambling and entertainment. The promotional shoot captured hundreds of photos and hours of video, set to appear in magazines and TV ads.

Mike admired Hardy's ability to make the casino's promotional material stand out. Hardy seemed to have an intuitive sense for what would attract attention.

During the filming, Hardy arranged separate accommodations for Ava Gardner and Heidi Lamarr to avoid disturbances. Once the filming concluded, the actresses returned to their respective projects, and the crew went back to Los Angeles.

Before returning, Hardy finalized arrangements for the casino's operations. Upton, the experienced casino manager, was in place to oversee operations, while Andy's team handled accounting. Rossi, head of security, and Robert Drew, of HD security, ensured the casino was well-protected.

With everything set, Hardy and Mike returned to Los Angeles to inspect the new TV factory, which was nearing completion. The factory, set to start trial production in August, promised significant output and efficiency improvements over the old facility.

Hardy proposed a sales model involving installment payments through major banks, a strategy Mike found impressive. They also visited the Barbie Doll Factory and Playboy Magazine, both of which were thriving under Hardy's management.

Mike was astonished by the success of Hardy's ventures. Playboy magazine alone had achieved a market value of $50 million. Hardy's ventures seemed to have a transformative impact compared to the Corleone family's traditional underworld businesses.

Mike was increasingly confident in Hardy's ability to succeed in legitimate business. Hardy had shown a strategic vision and capability that was rare.

After a few days of hospitality, Mike returned to New York, while Hardy continued with his plans.