Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• $138K slots jackpot hits at downtown Las Vegas casino.

• Upcoming Vegas Golden Knights match

• A deep dive into the life of Don Rickles

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”

— Theodore Roosevelt

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!

What is the name of the famous Las Vegas shopping mall known for its indoor canal and gondola rides?

A) The Forum Shops at Caesars

B) The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian

C) Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood

D) The Shops at Crystals

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

Elvis Presley performed his famous residency shows in the 1970s at A) The International Hotel (now Westgate Las Vegas).

News

💼 Business

Nevada’s largest paper manufacturer acquired by Italian company. (Link)

Cowboy Christmas draws thousands for first weekend. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Rebels await bowl fate with uncertainty on horizon. (Link)

Meet the 2024 Nevada Preps All-Southern Nevada girls tennis team. (Link)

🏦 Finance

$138K slots jackpot hits at downtown Las Vegas casino. (Link)

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

🏇 National Finals Rodeo
Thomas and Mack Center, Las Vegas
Thursday, Dec. 12th, 2024 | (More info)

🏒 Vancouver Canucks at Vegas Golden Knights
T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Thursday, Dec. 19th, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Cody Johnson
MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas
Thursday, Dec. 12th | (More info)

🎵 Thomas Rhett
Fontainebleau, Las Vegas
Friday, Dec. 13th | (More info)

Family

🎅 Breakfast with Santa in Summerlin
10940 Rosemary Park Drive, Las Vegas
Saturday, Dec. 14th | (More info)

Image of the Week

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

This week, I typed in “Urban winter wonderland in Las Vegas with ice architecture” 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

1967: Evel Knievel's famous motorcycle jump over the fountains at Caesars Palace.

In 1967, daredevil Evel Knievel attempted his most ambitious motorcycle stunt at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada. On December 31st, Knievel aimed to jump over the water fountains at Caesars Palace, marking a 141-foot attempt and his longest jump to date. However, as he hit the takeoff ramp, the motorcycle unexpectedly decelerated, causing Knievel to crash upon landing and suffer a crushed pelvis. This dramatic event captured the attention of the public and solidified Knievel's reputation as a fearless and daring stuntman.

Evel Knievel's jump at Caesars Palace on December 31, 1967, became a defining moment in his career and a significant event in the history of daredevil stunts. Despite the crash and injuries he sustained, Knievel's bold attempt at the Caesars Palace fountains propelled him to fame and notoriety. The footage of this botched jump was widely circulated, making Knievel a household name and establishing his legacy as a pioneer in extreme sports and motorcycle stunts.

The Caesars Palace jump marked a pivotal moment in Evel Knievel's career, setting the stage for his future stunts and solidifying his status as a cultural icon. Although the jump resulted in a crash and serious injuries, Knievel's fearless determination and showmanship captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on the world of daredevil stunts and extreme sports.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Don Rickles (1926–2017): Comedian known for his performances in Las Vegas.

Don Rickles, the legendary comedian known for his acerbic insult comedy, was a mainstay in Las Vegas entertainment for over five decades. His career spanned from the 1950s to the early 2000s, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy and entertainment.

Early Life and Comedy Beginnings (1926-1958)

Don Rickles was born on May 8, 1926, in New York City. He developed an interest in comedy at a young age and honed his skills through performances at local clubs and theaters. His quick wit and sharp humor set the stage for his future success in the entertainment industry.

Las Vegas Debut and Stardom (1959-1967)

In May 1959, Don Rickles made his Las Vegas debut at the Sahara Hotel's Casbar Lounge, performing between sets by jazz master Louis Prima. His comedic style, often referred to as insult comedy, quickly gained popularity, and he became a regular headliner at various hotel-casinos in Las Vegas. Rickles' performances in Las Vegas solidified his reputation as a comedic icon and earned him a dedicated fan base in the city.

Television and Film Career (1960s-2000s)

Throughout the 1960s and beyond, Don Rickles appeared as a frequent guest on talk and variety shows, including The Dean Martin Show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and The Late Show with David Letterman. His television presence further propelled his career and showcased his comedic talent to a wider audience. Additionally, Rickles had a successful film career, with notable roles in movies such as Casino, where he delivered a memorable performance that resonated with audiences.

Legacy and Influence (2000s-2017)

Even in his later years, Don Rickles continued to captivate audiences with his unique brand of comedy. His influence extended beyond the stage and screen, as he inspired a new generation of comedians and entertainers. Rickles' impact on the comedy world and his enduring legacy as a Las Vegas entertainer remain unparalleled.

Key Achievements of Don Rickles:

• Mainstay performer in Las Vegas since 1959, captivating audiences with his insult comedy.

• Regular headliner at various hotel-casinos in Las Vegas, establishing a strong connection to the city.

• Acclaimed film and television career, with memorable roles in Casino and numerous talk show appearances.

• Influential figure in the comedy world, inspiring a new generation of comedians and entertainers.

• Remembered as a comedic icon and a beloved entertainer, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Don Rickles' story is one of comedic brilliance, unwavering dedication to his craft, and a profound impact on the world of entertainment. His performances in Las Vegas and beyond continue to be celebrated, ensuring that his legacy lives on for generations to come.

Connect With Me

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

-Yannick Lyons