Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• NBA In-Season Tournament semifinals in Las Vegas

• U2 performing at The Sphere

• A deep dive into the life of Bugsy Siegel

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

Photo of the Week

Las Vegas Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Las Vegas is home to many architectural marvels. Which Las Vegas hotel is famous for its distinctive pyramid shape, complete with an illuminating sky beam?

A) The Venetian

B) The Luxor

C) The Bellagio

D) The Mirage

News

💼 Business

The long-awaited Fontainebleau Las Vegas, a new resort and casino on the Strip, held its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The opening marks a significant addition to the Las Vegas Strip, bringing new hospitality and gaming experiences to the city.

Chef Daniel Ye, known for his culinary expertise across major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, has launched Nicco’s steakhouse at Durango Resort. This new establishment aims to become a top foodie destination in Las Vegas, offering a unique dining experience.

🏦 Finance

A report revealed that Las Vegas’ workforce is among the most at-risk in the U.S. for job disruptions due to advancements in artificial intelligence. This highlights the need for adapting to technological changes in the job market.

Various philanthropic efforts were noted, including initiatives by R.E.A.C.H., Nevada State Elks Association, and Bank of America. These activities demonstrate the community's commitment to supporting social and charitable causes in Las Vegas.

🏒 Sports

The NBA In-Season Tournament semifinals in Las Vegas saw impressive attendance, indicating the city's readiness for an NBA expansion team. This event underscores Las Vegas's growing stature as a major sports hub.

The Thomas And Mack Center hosted the National Finals Rodeo, distinguished by its unique two-bay tunnel design. The event was well-attended, reflecting the city's enthusiasm for this sport.

📰 News

A perspective from a local commercial banker suggested optimism for Las Vegas' business opportunities in the upcoming year. This outlook reflects the potential for growth and development in various sectors of the city's economy.

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🥊 UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington (December 16): Witness the intensity of UFC 296 at T-Mobile Arena, where fighters Edwards and Covington go head-to-head in a gripping mixed martial arts battle.

Music & Concerts

🎤 Carrie Underwood (December 13, 15, 16): Enjoy Carrie Underwood's powerhouse vocals and stunning stage presence at Resorts World, featuring her greatest hits and new favorites in an unforgettable concert experience.

🎸 U2 at The Sphere (December 13, 15, 16): Rock with U2 at The Sphere, an iconic performance by the legendary band, known for their timeless music and dynamic live shows.

🎵 Garth Brooks at Caesars Palace (December 13, 15, 16): Experience the charm and classic hits of country music legend Garth Brooks in the intimate setting of Caesars Palace, a must-see for country music fans.

Family

🌟 Barry Manilow's Holiday Show (Throughout December): Delight in Barry Manilow's holiday-themed show at Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino, featuring festive melodies and Manilow's classic hits in a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Las Vegas in a video game” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Las Vegas History

Atomic Testing (1950s)

The atomic testing near Las Vegas in the 1950s was a significant chapter in the city's history. The Nevada Test Site, located approximately 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas, was established in 1951 as a primary testing location for nuclear weapons. This site was chosen due to its remote location, yet it was close enough to Las Vegas for logistical support.

The testing period, particularly during the 1950s, became a unique attraction for both tourists and residents. Hotels in Las Vegas capitalized on the spectacle, offering special "atomic cocktails" and "dawn bomb parties" where guests could watch the mushroom clouds from the explosions. These tests were not just a distant military operation; they became woven into the cultural fabric of Las Vegas during that era.

However, the legacy of these tests is complex. While they contributed to the city's mystique and tourism industry, they also raised serious concerns about radiation exposure and environmental impact. In later years, this aspect of Las Vegas' history has been critically re-evaluated, acknowledging both its role in the Cold War and the consequences for those living in proximity to the test sites.

Las Vegans In History

Bugsy Siegel: 1906-1947

Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel was an American mobster and a driving force behind the development of the Las Vegas Strip. Siegel was a charismatic and notorious figure whose involvement in organized crime and the gambling industry left a lasting impact on Las Vegas.

Early Life and Entry into Crime (1906-1931) 

Born in Brooklyn, New York, to a Jewish immigrant family, Siegel became involved in crime early in his life. He formed part of the Bugs and Meyer Mob, which eventually merged with what would become the infamous American Mafia.

Rise in Organized Crime (1931-1940) 

Siegel rose to prominence in organized crime through various illicit activities, including bootlegging and gambling operations. His charisma and fearlessness made him a notable figure in the underworld during the Prohibition era.

Move to California and Expansion (1941-1945) 

In the early 1940s, Siegel moved to California, expanding his criminal activities. He also developed connections in Hollywood, leading to both legitimate and illegitimate business ventures, including some in the film industry.

Vision for Las Vegas and the Flamingo (1945-1947) 

Siegel’s vision for Las Vegas as a gambling and entertainment mecca led to his involvement in the development of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. He believed that legal gambling would thrive in the Nevada desert. The Flamingo, although initially a financial failure, later became hugely successful and marked the beginning of the Las Vegas Strip.

Mysterious Death and Legacy (1947) 

Siegel's life ended abruptly when he was assassinated in 1947, a murder that remains unsolved but is believed to be connected to his mob ties and the financial losses from the Flamingo. His death marked a violent chapter in the history of organized crime.

Impact on Las Vegas (Post-1947) 

Despite his criminal background, Siegel's vision and investments were pivotal in transforming Las Vegas into a gambling and entertainment paradise. His role in the development of the Las Vegas Strip set the stage for the city's future growth.

Controversial Figure in American History 

Siegel's life as a gangster and his role in the development of Las Vegas make him a controversial yet significant figure in American history. His story intertwines with the narrative of organized crime, the entertainment industry, and the transformation of Las Vegas.

Depiction in Media and Popular Culture 

Bugsy Siegel has been depicted in various films, books, and television shows, often romanticized as a charming yet ruthless mobster with a visionary streak for Las Vegas.

Key Achievements of Bugsy Siegel:

• Key figure in the development of the Las Vegas Strip.

• His vision laid the groundwork for modern Las Vegas.

• Notorious and influential figure in organized crime.

• His legacy continues to be a subject of fascination and debate.

Bugsy Siegel's story is intertwined with the early development of Las Vegas, reflecting a complex interplay of crime, ambition, and visionary ideas that contributed to shaping one of America's most iconic cities.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen