Notes on "What Happens There - Believer Magazine"

Introduction

• The piece opens with the story of Levi Presley, a teenager who committed suicide by jumping from the Stratosphere Hotel in Las Vegas.
• The narrative weaves together various events happening in Las Vegas on that day, illustrating the city's chaotic and tragic elements.

Levi Presley's Story

• Levi Presley, a 16-year-old high school student, jumped from the Stratosphere Hotel.
• His death is contrasted against everyday occurrences and the city's statistics on various causes of death.
• The narrative explores the lack of information and openness from authorities and institutions about Levi's death.
• Levi's parents were open to discussing their son, unlike the rest of the community.

Suicide in Las Vegas

• Las Vegas has the highest suicide rates in the U.S.
• More people in Las Vegas die by suicide than by car accidents, AIDS, pneumonia, cirrhosis, or diabetes.
• The city also struggles with high rates of child abuse, drug use among teenagers, arrests for DUI, high school dropout rates, and bankruptcies.
• Lack of mental health resources is highlighted, with a significant number of residents unable to access psychiatric care.

Volunteering at the Suicide Prevention Center

• The author volunteers at the Las Vegas Suicide Prevention Center, which faces challenges due to limited resources and reliance on volunteers.
• The center's hotline system is inefficient, often forwarding calls to out-of-state hotlines.
• Marjorie Westin, the center's director, explains the complexities of handling suicide calls.

Cultural and Institutional Attitudes Toward Suicide

• Las Vegas officials and institutions are reluctant to discuss or address suicide due to its negative impact on tourism.
• The Coroner's Office, responsible for classifying causes of death, is under societal pressure to downplay suicides.
• Cultural criticism and media portrayals of Las Vegas often sidestep or underreport issues related to crime and suicide.
• Historical perspectives on suicide from various cultures and religions show a long-standing taboo.

Architecture and Symbolism

• The Stratosphere Hotel, where Levi jumped, is analyzed as a symbol of Las Vegas.
• Its construction and existence reflect the city's economic-driven approach and its challenges in maintaining a safe image.

Conclusion

• The narrative circles back to Levi's death, highlighting the personal impact on his family and the broader societal issues it reflects.
• The piece closes by questioning the significance of collected information and its relation to true understanding or wisdom.