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Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Raiders guard, after being cut 5 times, shows persistence pays off.

• Upcoming Vegas Golden Knights match

• A deep dive into the life of Tommy Dorsey

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

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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 unique attraction can be found at the top of the Stratosphere Tower?

A) A roller coaster

B) A rotating restaurant

C) A skydiving simulator

D) An observation deck

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The famous Las Vegas casino that was the setting for the film The Hangover is B) Caesars Palace.

News

💼 Business

Local wins $332K at Pai Gow table in off-Strip casino. (Link)

RJ hires Traci Wilson as director of digital broadcast. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Boise State forfeits Mountain West tournament match over trans issue. (Link)

Raiders guard, after being cut 5 times, shows persistence pays off. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Las Vegas airport’s October passenger load 2nd highest month ever. (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

🥊 Tuff N Uff
Sahara Las Vegas, Las Vegas
Wednesday, Dec. 4th | (More info)

🏒 Edmonton Oilers at Vegas Golden Knights
T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Tuesday, Dec. 3rd | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎭 Jabbawockeez
Jabbawockeez Theater, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas
Monday, Dec. 2nd | (More info)

🎵 The Jets and The Carpenter's Legacy
V Theater, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Tuesday, Dec. 3rd | (More info)

Family

👊 Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Kids' Drop-in Classes (Ages 7–17)
6565 South Fort Apache Road #165, Las Vegas
Tuesday, Dec. 3rd | (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 “Las Vegas streets with interactive, responsive surfaces” 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

1950: Desert Inn opens, attracting Hollywood celebrities.

In 1950, the Desert Inn opened its doors on April 24th, marking the beginning of an era that would attract Hollywood celebrities and become a significant landmark in Las Vegas history. The grand opening was a two-day gala event that garnered national attention and set the stage for the Desert Inn to become a hub of entertainment and luxury. Designed by architect Hugh Taylor and featuring interior design by Jac Lessman, the Desert Inn was the fifth resort to open on the Strip, solidifying its place in the heart of Las Vegas's entertainment district.

The Desert Inn quickly became a magnet for Hollywood celebrities, drawing the likes of Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy to headline the resort's Painted Desert Room on opening night. This influx of star power solidified the Desert Inn's reputation as a premier destination for entertainment and luxury. The resort's lavish amenities and glamorous atmosphere made it a favorite among the Hollywood elite, further establishing its status as a must-visit destination for celebrities and high-profile guests.

Over the years, the Desert Inn continued to be a symbol of opulence and entertainment, hosting iconic performers and becoming an integral part of the Las Vegas nightlife scene. Its legacy as a magnet for Hollywood celebrities and a center of luxury entertainment cemented its place in the history of Las Vegas, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Tommy Dorsey (1905–1956): Bandleader and musician who performed in Las Vegas.

Tommy Dorsey, born Thomas Francis Dorsey Jr. on November 19, 1905, in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, was an American jazz trombonist, composer, conductor, and bandleader of the big band era. He was known as the Sentimental Gentleman of Swing due to his smooth-toned trombone playing and his theme song I'm Getting Sentimental Over You. His career and influence helped shape American popular music for three decades, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1905-1920s)

Tommy Dorsey was born on November 19, 1905, in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. His musical journey began in the 1920s, and he quickly gained recognition for his talent as a trombonist and his melodic swinging style.

Rise to Stardom and Big Band Era (1930s-1940s)

In the 1930s and 1940s, Tommy Dorsey rose to stardom as a bandleader and musician, leading several of the most popular big bands of the swing era. His influence and impact on American popular music during this time solidified his reputation as a highly respected and influential trombonist.

Connection to Las Vegas

Tommy Dorsey's musical career brought him to Las Vegas, where he performed and left a lasting impression on the city's entertainment scene. His performances in Las Vegas contributed to the city's vibrant music culture and entertainment industry, further cementing his influence in the world of music.

Legacy and Influence (1950s-1960s)

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Tommy Dorsey's legacy continued to inspire musicians and fans alike, with his music remaining a timeless representation of the big band era. His smooth-toned trombone playing and melodic style left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing future generations of musicians.

Personal Life and Family

Tommy Dorsey was married to Jane Dorsey, and the couple had two children, Catherine Susan and Steve. His personal life and family connections provided a glimpse into the man behind the music, showcasing his dedication to both his craft and his loved ones.

Key Achievements of Tommy Dorsey:

• Pioneer of the big band era, shaping American popular music for three decades.

• Known as the Sentimental Gentleman of Swing for his smooth-toned trombone playing and melodic style.

• Influence on the music industry and future generations of musicians.

• Performances in Las Vegas contributing to the city's entertainment culture.

• Legacy as a highly respected and influential trombonist and bandleader.

In summary, Tommy Dorsey's life and career as a bandleader and musician left an indelible mark on the music industry, particularly during the big band era. His influence, smooth-toned trombone playing, and performances in Las Vegas contributed to his lasting legacy as the Sentimental Gentleman of Swing, inspiring future generations of musicians and music enthusiasts.

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

-Yannick Lyons