Bright Lights in the Desert explores the history of how members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Las Vegas have improved the regions’ neighborhoods, inspired educational institutions, brought integrity to the marketplace, and provided wholesome entertainment and cultural refinement. The LDS influence has helped shape the metropolitan city because of its members’ focus on family values and community service.

Woods discusses how, through their beliefs and work ethics, they have impacted the growth of the area from the time of their first efforts to establish a mission in 1855 through the present day. Bright Lights in the Desert reveals Las Vegas as more than just a tourist destination and shows the LDS community’s commitment to making it a place of deep religious faith and devotion to family.

Foreword by Michael S. Green
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1. The Latter-day Saint Corridor and the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort
Chapter 2. Post-Old Mormon Fort Early Settlement to Las Vegas Stakes (1857-1960)
Chapter 3. Ignorance, Education, and Cultural Refinement
Chapter 4. Business and Entertainment
Chapter 5. Latter-day Saints in Elected Office and Community Service
Chapter 6. Ecclesiastical Community Service to a Local Congregation in Need
Chapter 7. The Story of the Las Vegas Temple
Appendix A. Nevada Mothers of the Year
Appendix B. Clark County Schools Named After Latter-day Saints
Appendix C. Select List of Elected or Appointed Officials in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Area
Appendix D. Las Vegas Temple Dedicatory Prayer, Given December 16, 1989
Appendix E. Latter-day Saints Las Vegas Regional Timeline
Notes
Bibliography
Index
About the Author