Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Sustainable fashion startup week

• Las Vegas restaurant chain plans national expansion

• Upcoming Las Vegas Aces games

• Local concerts and events

• Howard Hughes’ impact on Las Vegas

• And more…

Support Local

We are all about supporting Las Vegans whether that means:

• Businesses

• Artists

• Charities

• Sports

• Performers

If you would like to nominate yourself, your business, or someone you know to be featured in a future issue of this newsletter, fill out this form (link)

Quote of the Week

“If you plan on being anything less than you are capable of being, you will probably be unhappy all the days of your life.”

-Abraham Maslow

My Goal For the Week

Training my “ability to focus” as if it were a “muscle.” I have always had a tough time focusing on what I am doing, and I am working on overcoming this.

I am trying to work in 60 minute bursts with a break in between.

I am literally training myself to sit there and focus with the hope that I will get better and better at “focusing” the more I practice.

One Idea For a Better Week

Dedicate the first hour of your day towards physical and mental well-being. Spend the first 20 minutes stretching. Spend the second 20 minutes journaling. Spend the final 20 minutes reading. This will set the tone for the rest of the day.

My Favorite Link of the Week

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!

In what year was betting criminalized in Las Vegas following its founding in 1905?

• A. 1908

• B. 1910

• C. 1912

• D. 1914​​

News

💼Business

Las Vegas has welcomed a groundbreaking sustainable fashion startup this week, aiming to revolutionize the industry with eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. The company has already garnered attention from major fashion retailers looking to integrate more sustainable options into their product lines.

A popular Las Vegas restaurant chain has announced its plans for national expansion after years of successful operation in the city. The company attributes its success to its unique menu, exceptional customer service, and the support of the local community. This expansion is expected to create numerous job opportunities across the country while putting Las Vegas's culinary scene on the map.

A tech conference hosted in Las Vegas has showcased the latest innovations in consumer electronics, drawing in tech enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the world.

🏦Finance

A local Las Vegas bank has launched a new financial wellness program, offering free workshops and resources to help residents manage their finances more effectively.

In a bid to attract more business to the city, Las Vegas officials have announced a series of tax incentives for small businesses looking to set up shop in the area. The incentives are part of a larger effort to boost the local economy and create jobs, showcasing the city's proactive approach to economic development.

🏒Sports

Las Vegas's youth soccer league has made headlines this week for its inclusive approach, ensuring that children of all abilities have the opportunity to participate and enjoy the sport.

A Las Vegas high school has celebrated the opening of its new state-of-the-art sports facility, complete with a synthetic turf field, track, and gymnasium. The facility is expected to greatly enhance the school's athletic programs and provide a boost to student morale and community spirit.

A charity run held in Las Vegas has raised substantial funds for a local children's hospital. Participants from all walks of life came together to support the cause, showcasing the city's strong sense of community and commitment to giving back.

📰News

Las Vegas's annual art festival has once again captivated residents and visitors alike, featuring stunning displays from local and international artists. The festival celebrates creativity and innovation, providing a vibrant platform for artists to connect with the community and share their work.

In an inspiring story of community resilience, a Las Vegas neighborhood has come together to restore a local park, transforming it into a safe and welcoming space for residents to enjoy. The project was driven by local volunteers, highlighting the power of collective effort and community pride.

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:

🏈 High School Football: Sunset Showdown (October 25)
Feel the excitement in the air as local high schools go head-to-head in the annual Sunset Showdown football game. Come out and support the young athletes as they display their skills, determination, and team spirit.

⚽ Youth Soccer Tournament (October 27)
Watch the future stars of soccer compete in the Vegas Cup, an invitational tournament for youth teams. With squads from across the region participating, it promises to be a showcase of talent and sportsmanship.

Music & Concerts:

🎸 Live at the Lounge: Acoustic Sessions (October 24)
Enjoy a night of raw, unplugged performances at Live at the Lounge, where local musicians showcase their acoustic talents. It’s a perfect opportunity to discover new music and appreciate the artistry of live performance.

🎷 Jazz Under the Stars (October 26)
Spend an enchanting evening under the Vegas sky at Jazz Under the Stars. This event brings together some of the best local jazz musicians for a night of soulful melodies and captivating rhythms.

🎤 Las Vegas Open Mic Night (October 29)
Discover the city’s rising stars at Las Vegas Open Mic Night. From musicians and comedians to poets, this event celebrates the diversity and creativity of the local talent pool.

Events:

🍷 Wine and Paint Night (October 23)
Unleash your inner artist at Wine and Paint Night. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a complete beginner, this event promises a fun, relaxed atmosphere and the chance to create your own masterpiece.

📸 Photography Walk: Downtown Las Vegas (October 25)
Explore the vibrant streets of Downtown Las Vegas through your camera lens. Join other photography enthusiasts for a guided walk, capturing the unique architecture, street art, and bustling urban life.

🎲 Board Game Night at Meepleville (October 28)
Gather your friends and head to Meepleville for a fun-filled board game night. With an extensive library of games to choose from, there’s something for everyone—from casual players to serious strategists.

Family:

👪 Family Fun Day at the Park (October 23)
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day of outdoor fun with the whole family at one of Las Vegas’s beautiful parks. There will be games, activities, and plenty of space for the kids to run around.

🎪 Circus Spectacular: A Family Show (October 26)
Treat your family to an evening of wonder and amazement at Circus Spectacular. Watch in awe as acrobats, clowns, and performers defy gravity in this thrilling show perfect for all ages.

🐾 Pet Adoption Fair (October 29)
Open your heart and home to a furry friend by visiting the Pet Adoption Fair. Local shelters will be on-site with adorable pets looking for their forever homes, along with resources and information on pet care.

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 as a Disney Movie” and this is what I got.

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

Famous Las Vegans

Howard Hughes: Aviation Pioneer & Filmmaker

Howard Hughes, a man of many talents and even more mysteries, was an aviation pioneer, filmmaker, and business magnate who played a pivotal role in transforming Las Vegas from a desert outpost into a thriving city. Known for his eccentric behavior and reclusive lifestyle, Hughes nonetheless left an indelible mark on the world, and particularly on Las Vegas. His investments in the city helped shape its future, turning it into a legitimate and booming metropolis.

1. The Early Bird Catches the Worm (1905-1924) Howard Robard Hughes Jr. was born on December 24, 1905, in Houston, Texas. Heir to his family's successful oil tool business, Hughes was introduced to the world of business at a young age. Showing an early interest in mechanics and engineering, Hughes was set to leave a mark on the world of innovation.

2. Hollywood Dreams (1925-1935) In the 1920s, Hughes made his way to Hollywood, where he dipped his toes into filmmaking. He produced several films, including the notable "Hell's Angels" (1930), showcasing his penchant for aviation and his willingness to take risks. His time in Hollywood wasn’t just about films; it was also where he started to build his reputation as a maverick and a playboy.

3. Soaring Heights in Aviation (1936-1945) Hughes’s passion for aviation took a front seat in the 1930s and 1940s. He set multiple flying records, and his company, Hughes Aircraft, became a major defense contractor during World War II. Hughes’s commitment to pushing boundaries in aviation was unmatched, solidifying his legacy in the field.

4. Building an Empire (1946-1957) Post-war, Hughes turned his attention to expanding his business empire. He invested in various sectors, including aerospace, entertainment, and real estate. His knack for business and his fearless approach to investments saw his wealth and influence grow exponentially.

5. Vegas Baby, Vegas! (1958-1966) In the late 1950s, Hughes set his sights on Las Vegas. He saw potential in the city's burgeoning casino and entertainment industry. Hughes began buying properties, including hotels and casinos on the famous Las Vegas Strip. His investments played a critical role in legitimizing the city's gaming industry, attracting more investors and visitors.

6. King of Las Vegas (1966-1970) By the 1960s, Hughes was a dominant figure in Las Vegas. His real estate and gaming ventures had transformed the city’s landscape, and his influence reached every corner of the desert metropolis. Hughes was instrumental in shaping modern Las Vegas, turning it into a reputable and flourishing city.

7. Reclusiveness and Mystery (1971-1976) Despite his success, Hughes was known for his eccentric behavior and reclusive lifestyle. He became increasingly withdrawn from public life, fueling speculation and mystery about his activities and state of mind. Hughes’s enigmatic nature only added to his legend, making him a figure of enduring fascination.

8. The Final Chapter (1976) On April 5, 1976, Hughes passed away during a flight from Mexico to Texas. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy lived on, particularly in Las Vegas, where his impact was immeasurable.

9. Legal Battles and Legacy (1976-1980s) Following Hughes’s death, his estate became the subject of legal battles, as he had left no will. Despite the controversies, Hughes’s legacy as a pioneering aviator, successful businessman, and influential figure in Las Vegas was cemented.

10. Hughes’s Enduring Impact (1990s-present) Decades after his death, Howard Hughes’s influence on Las Vegas is still evident. The city has continued to thrive and evolve, but his role in its transformation is remembered and revered. Hughes is celebrated not just as a businessman, but as a visionary who saw potential in a desert town and helped turn it into a world-renowned city.

Conclusion

Howard Hughes’s life was a tapestry of success, innovation, and mystery. From the glitz of Hollywood to the blue skies of aviation and the neon lights of Las Vegas, Hughes left his mark on every field he touched. His story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the allure of the unknown.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen