hollywood billionaire

Chapter 532 For the Law and for Justice
"This sketch..."

"Quite minimalist...quite abstract."

As a seasoned politician who has navigated Capitol Hill for many years, Jerry Nadler has always been excellent at managing his expressions in public.

Even so, he was starting to lose his composure.

Jerry Nadler took off his reading glasses, rubbed the bridge of his nose, and tried to suppress the laughter that was already on the tip of his tongue.

What am I looking at?

"What you see is a man with no talent for painting, making a desperate attempt."

Han Yi, on the other hand, was completely unconcerned and responded with a smile.

“I know this may be the most childish drawing you’ve ever seen, but for this particular venue, I’m having another team create detailed renderings. It will be ready in January, and I assure you, Mr. Nadler, it will be more magnificent and imaginative than any performance venue this country has ever had.”

“Why don’t you describe it to me now?” Jerry Nadler handed the phone to his son, who then gave it back to Han Yi. “I saw the shape you drew… and I have a very vivid imagination, so I believe I can sketch a rough picture in my mind.”

“Yes, Mr. Nadler…”

Han Yi took the phone, his gaze intense.

"Imagine a giant sphere, like the moon that has fallen into the desert, appearing out of nowhere in the Las Vegas night."

"But it is not a cold rock, but a breathing, beating heart... a vibrant planet."

"Its outer shell will be completely covered by a 58-square-foot LED screen, making the building itself the world's largest LED display matrix. What does this mean? It means that at night, it can be a burning giant's head, a deep and enchanting blue Earth, an emoji figure that keeps changing its expressions, or even a giant basketball floating on the Las Vegas Strip."

"Therefore, it will become the most eye-catching element of the Las Vegas skyline and the most valuable billboard any advertiser can demand." Jerry Nadler knows how to see through appearances to the essence, and his chosen entry point is also very accurate.

"Yes, every advertisement that airs here is a work of art in itself. And these works of art will naturally appear on social media through tourists' mobile phones, ferment and spread rapidly all over the world. As we just mentioned, each of the more than 40 million tourists who visit Las Vegas every year will become a carrier to help Las Vegas become a propaganda tool that is unprecedented in human society."

After finishing this long and difficult sentence, Han Yi took a deep breath and deliberately left a dramatic pause.

"But that's not all. The real wonder is inside the Las Vegas Sphere. In addition to the 20,000 seats, every inch of the sphere's interior will be a 16K resolution surround LED screen. The sound matrix installed inside will use beamforming and wave field synthesis technology to allow the sound to gently and warmly envelop every audience member, like a mother's embrace. Even more amazing is that we will make the seats support 4D physics effects... you know, like those 4D cinemas that can vibrate, spray water, and let the audience smell various scents, but on a hundred times the scale."

“Imagine, Mr. Nadler, when the screen can extend all the way to your head, it’s no longer just a screen—it’s an ‘alternative reality’ that can completely engulf you. If you really have a vivid imagination… Mr. Nadler, please tell me the name of a rock star, any rock star you like.”

“Ah…” Jerry Nadler raised his arm, his brow furrowing slightly, as if flipping through his mental record collection, “Bruce Springsteen. A kid from New Jersey, just like me.”

“Perfect.” Han Yi smiled. “Imagine you’re sitting in the Sphere with 20,000 people. The lights go out, and suddenly, you’re not in Las Vegas—you’re standing on the Asbury Park Pier in New Jersey. The salty sea breeze is released through the seating system, and the 16K screen lets you see every ripple of the waves. As the intro to ‘Born to Run’ begins, beamforming technology makes Springsteen’s guitar sound like it’s being played just for you. The stage rises, and he’s not performing in the distance—he’s right there at the end of the pier, his sweat clearly visible under the spotlight.”

“And when the saxophone solo in ‘Jungleland’ begins,” Han Yi’s voice was softer, yet more penetrating, “the entire dome transforms into the night sky of New York City, and the saxophone sounds like shooting stars streaking across the sky, finally landing in the starry sky directly above you. You will forget to breathe, Mr. Nadler. Because you are no longer watching a concert—you are living inside an album.”

"Mr. Han, have you ever considered making a living by recording audiobooks?"

Jerry Nadler was momentarily stunned, then, while wiping his reading glasses with a napkin, let out a deep, rough laugh.

“I don’t need vivid imagination; just from your description, I can see that scene. For a moment, you reminded me of when I was seventeen, saving up my allowance for three weeks just to see a Velvet Underground concert… Don’t laugh, Michael, I was young once too.” As he said this, Jerry gently patted his chuckling son with the back of his hand, his eyes sparkling with both youth and kindness, two lights that seemed never to ever intertwine.

“I’m glad I did it, Mr. Nadler, because that’s exactly what Las Vegas Ball is all about.” Han Yi smiled and nodded. “To take everyone back to when they first came out of this world, fell in love with this world… and invite them to stay there for a few hours.”

"Well said." Jerry Nadler's gaze shifted to Han Yi, a hint of admiration creeping into his eyes.

It's a pity he wasn't born in this country, otherwise he might have achieved something impressive in the legal or political fields.

"How much will such a massive project cost?"

Of course, as a politician in the Democratic Party, Jerry Nadler wouldn't openly discuss issues of origin and nationality. He wiggled his spoon in his plate as if to scoop up some food, but ultimately didn't open his mouth.

His political stance supports vegetarianism, the introduction of exotic food cultures into the American market, and the continuous emergence of new things in society... but that doesn't mean his stomach supports the same views.

Free spirit, conservative stomach – this is one of the lesser-known labels of Jerry Nadler, an old New York Jew.

Have you done any calculations?

"Yes, Michael, Yi, and I are drafting a trade memo, which will be on Caroline Goodman's desk after Christmas."

Ruben Keehun was the first to answer, saying that the Caroline Goodman he was referring to was the mayor of Las Vegas. Her husband, Oscar Goodman, served as mayor of the city from 1999 to 2011, and after 2011, Caroline took over the reins.

This is what happens when you're a local political figure in the US.

"The Las Vegas Sphere is expected to have a total construction cost of $12 billion. The two twin towers, based on the current draft, will cost around $24-26 billion. The shopping mall and outdoor pedestrian area will be similar to, slightly less than, the American Dream Mall currently under construction in East Rutherford, with an estimated cost of $40 billion."

"So, the construction cost alone will be... $78 billion, or at least $76 billion."

"That's how it is according to current calculations."

“And the land?” Jerry Nadler frowned again. “I know it’s a decaying complex, but at the same time, it’s a 102-acre plot of land in the heart of Las Vegas, right on the side of the avenue. By…”

"Owned by MGM Resorts International."

“MGM Resorts,” Jerry Nadler scoffed. “They own over a dozen resorts in Las Vegas alone. Even if this resort doesn’t generate that much profit, they won’t just hand over 102 acres of land. Have you considered the acquisition costs? What are your estimates?”

"We have not yet sent a formal offer letter to MGM." This question is best answered by Han Yi. "But currently, the Carlyle Group's consulting team values ​​Circus Circus at $17 billion."

“That’s $95 billion. Add the costs of building demolition and land leveling, and the whole project will be close to $10 billion…and that’s assuming all costs are effectively controlled.” Jerry Nadler looked at Michael Nadler, then at Ruben Keehun, seemingly trying to find evidence of insecurity on their faces. “For such a large project, I don’t think it’s rude to ask this question: Mr. Han, do you have enough funds to support you…at least through the initial acquisition phase?”

“The answer is yes, 100%, Mr. Nadler.” Han Yi knew what Jerry’s constantly shifting eyes were searching for, so he gave him the opposite in his words—complete confidence. “Personally, I have at least $3 million that I can directly use for this project. In addition, the Carlyle Group was among the first investors to commit. They have prepared at least $12 billion for this project. This is not speculation, nor is it an ongoing discussion; it is an undeniable fact, and you can confirm its validity directly with Mr. Rubinstein.”

The $12 billion Han Yi mentioned was naturally the bonus that hadn't yet been credited to his account, as recorded in his memo. So, to be precise, the Carlyle Group wasn't an investor; they were merely the managers safeguarding this wealth for him. However, Han Yi didn't want to reveal too much of his true situation to Jerry Nadler, lest he cause himself trouble.

The fact that such a young billionaire could come up with $300 million is enough to make people wonder if he is the next Jho Low.

If he really told Jerry Nadler that he had $1.5 billion, or even more, in cash, then Jerry might just cut off all contact with Han Yi outright, because nobody wants to work with a delusional madman.

Sometimes, if the world portrays you in a certain way, don't resist; learn to use it to disguise yourself.

This is exactly what Han Yi is doing.

"Furthermore, I won't tell you that we've already signed a contract, because that's not true... but the Saudis are very close to becoming another major group of investors."

"Saudis."

"To be more specific, it is Turki al-Sheikh, chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, and his behind-the-scenes boss, Prince Salman, the future crown prince of Saudi Arabia, and the actual controller."

“We don’t know yet.” Jerry Nadler clearly has a deep understanding of the international situation, after all, it’s his job. “There is definitely a fierce power struggle within that kingdom, but nothing has been settled yet.”

"You can take this as inside information, or just a bet I made. Time will tell." Han Yi smiled noncommittally. "But what you can see immediately is that next year I will be working closely with them, hosting several large-scale music festivals across the United States, and making several music copyright acquisitions that will shake the world."

“Alright.” Jerry Nadler turned his gaze to Michael Nadler again. After seeing the affirmative look in his son's eyes, he snorted and shifted his bulky body. “So, how can I help you with this?”

“First of all, you provided us with an excellent lawyer, Michael Nadler, which was already a great help.” Han Yi did not forget what Jerry Nadler’s biggest weakness was, which was also the biggest reason, or even the only reason, he brought Michael Nadler into the team at the beginning of the project. “He helped us complete this draft, gave us a lot of valuable legal advice, and will continue to play an important role in our negotiations with MGM, contractors, and hotel groups and other brands that will enter the Las Vegas Star in the future.”

“I didn’t give him to you… Michael has his own career.” Jerry looked up at his son, his smile barely perceptible, restrained and subtle. It was clear he didn’t want the outside world to think Michael Nadler’s success was because he had a politician father who could wield considerable influence in New York and on Capitol Hill.

“Working with Mr. Han and Congressman Keehun was a very pleasant experience.” But Michael himself clearly didn’t care that much. If, in his teens, he still harbored some unrealistic fantasies of leaving his parents’ protection and making a name for himself, those fantasies had long since been shattered after entering the workforce. Michael knew his own limitations very well. Without his father’s support, let alone landing a multi-billion dollar case like StarCraft in Las Vegas, even getting into Columbia University for his undergraduate studies would have been unlikely.

Why did he spend his undergraduate years at Columbia University, his law school at New York University, and his entire academic career without ever leaving Manhattan Island?
If he is truly a second-generation elite who surpasses his parents, then why couldn't he get into Harvard, Yale, or Stanford?
Having figured this out, Michael Nadler had nothing left to lose face about. This was also why he readily accepted Han Yi's overly obvious cooperation proposal.

Many people want to rely entirely on their fathers but can't. Since you have your own father, why be coy?
A multi-billion dollar construction project in Las Vegas will not only secure him a senior partner position at his current law firm, Gesun, but also lay a solid foundation for him to start his own firm in the future.

The Las Vegas Star is a "career foundation" that lawyers often rave about.

Taking on a case like this can be a lifelong bargaining chip.

"So Dad, I think you'll also have a pleasant time working with them."

“It depends on what they want me to do.” Jerry spread his hands, pointing them toward Han Yi and Ruben. “Let’s hear it.”

“It’s actually quite simple, Mr. Councilor.” Ruben-Kihun licked his lips. “If possible, it would be best if we could both speak to Mayor Goodman about this… I’m a newcomer, but you’ve been a friend of theirs for decades, and I believe that would make the proposal more credible.”

“Well, I know them, but I wouldn’t necessarily call them my friends.” Jerry grunted. “They’ve never worked on Capitol Hill before, and both of them have spent their entire careers on municipal engineering. So I don’t know if they would consider me a trustworthy person, or if it would be too presumptuous for a New Yorker like me to talk to them about projects in their own city.”

"But they are Democrats...at least Oscar Goodman used to be."

“You may be too young to remember this, but Oscar has left the Democratic Party and become an independent…and there’s a reason for that.”

Jerry Nadler paused for a moment, seemingly considering whether it was worth recounting this old story, and ultimately concluded that the intra-party struggle of ten years ago would not have a significant impact on the current situation.

“In 2006, he wanted to run for the Senate in Nevada as a Democrat. But… the DCCC persuaded him to give up the nomination to Jack Carter, who lost the election, much to Goodman’s dissatisfaction.”

The Jack Carter mentioned by Jerry Nadler is the eldest son of former President Jimmy Carter.

In order to make way for the second generation of blue-blooded elites and sideline the local strongmen who had a better chance of winning a senator seat, it's no wonder that Oscar Goodman left the Democratic Party and became an independent.

"But he is still one of us... and one of you."

Ruben Keehun didn't spell it out, but he believed Jerry Nadler would understand what he meant.

What do you mean?
Oscar Goodman and Carolyn Goodman are also Jewish.

Like Jerry Nadler, he is a pure Jew who has not converted to Catholicism or Protestantism.

In 2009, there was a minor media frenzy in the Democratic Party's media, which listed Oscar Goodman as the Jewish politician most likely to be elected president of the United States.

Although a long time has passed and it is difficult to trace the source of that craze, it is not hard to guess that Oscar Goodman must have been a protégé of the Jewish caucus within the Democratic Party.

The Democratic Jewish Caucus, and even members of the U.S. House of Representatives, have not yet been formally recognized, but everyone knows who leads the Congressional Jewish Caucus, which has been actively operating.

Jerry Nadler.

In the 115th Congress, which will convene for the first time in 2017, there will be 23 Jewish representatives, including 2 Republicans and 21 Democrats.

Therefore, it can be said that Jerry Nadler is the figure that Jewish people who want to enter politics in Washington must pay homage to.

“Okay, I’ll talk to them.” Having said all that, Jerry didn’t mince words. After a few seconds of pause, he revealed a crucial piece of information: “Oscar Goodman is now a special counsel at Goodman Law Group, a law firm founded by his son.”

“Yes, Attorney Ross C. Goodman,” Michael Nadler replied immediately. “I’ve already contacted him, and he will be providing some legal assistance for this project.”

"Okay." Jerry's tone held a hint of satisfaction. "Anything else you want?"

“We need an experienced casino management company as our partner; this is the most important task at present to move the project forward,” Han Yi replied. “Ruben is trying to find a solution, and Michael is trying to find a solution as well. If you have anyone you can recommend, that would be great.”

"Do they need to inject funds?"

“Not really necessary, but if they insist.” Han Yi shrugged. “It’s not really about their financial strength or willingness to invest, because I believe we can definitely raise enough funds. What we really need is someone trusted by the city government, someone who previously held a license in Nevada and has a good track record.”

Han Yi's words were veiled, but to Jerry Nadler, the meaning was clear—this young Chinese-American tycoon was acutely aware of his role and his predicament. In Las Vegas, he was a complete outsider. Although the city had issued nearly 2000 gaming licenses, Circus Circus, a casino located on both sides of the Las Vegas Strip in prime real estate, was entirely different from the slot machine arcades on the street.

Of the 2000 gaming license holders, only 175 are so-called "casinos" with more than 15 gaming tables. And of those 175 casinos, only 30 are located on either side of the Las Vegas Strip.

For example, the Aria Casino is managed by the MGM Group and owned by Blackstone Group.

For example, the Bellagio casino is managed by the MGM Group and owned by Blackstone Group.

For example, Caesars Palace casino is managed and owned by Caesars Entertainment Group.

For example, the Venetian casino is managed and owned by the Sands Group.

For example, Wynn Casino is managed and owned by Wynn Resorts.

such as……

You get the idea.

Hotels don't matter, shopping malls don't matter, performance venues don't matter, but casinos that rake in money every day definitely need a local bigwig who can make a name for himself and get things done.

"I understand."

If Han Yi's words are true, and he can indeed raise enough funds within the expected timeframe without the casino's operating partners having to contribute the bulk of the project... then the Circus Circus gambling license would be a windfall, a generous gift for Jerry Nadler.

He can use this gift as leverage to expand his network of relationships, further solidify his position, and increase the family's expected future income.

“I’ll make a few calls and see what I can do.”

"Thank you very much, Mr. Congressman."

Ruben-Kihun carefully analyzed the changing situation at the dinner table and determined that this was the perfect moment for him to say the following:
“My district currently has 833125 registered voters, and once completed, the Las Vegas Star project will create at least 30,000 potential jobs on the North Las Vegas Strip.”

"That's enough to turn the area deep blue..."

"That would also give you one of the most steadfast allies on Capitol Hill."

"Yes, it's an ambitious project that will definitely benefit Las Vegas and Nevada in the long run."

Jerry Nadler put his reading glasses back on to conceal the glint in his eyes.

“And everyone needs allies, Congressman Keehun, and Mr. Han.”

"Of course I would like to have a young and energetic ally fighting alongside me for the law and for justice."

"For the law, for justice."

Ruben Keehun couldn't hide his excitement. He raised his glass and clinked it with Jerry Nadler, who was smiling calmly, Michael Nadler, whose face was also flushed, and Han Yi, who was much more composed.

“Mazel tov!”

(End of this chapter)