Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Wrangler National Finals Rodeo wasn’t always a Las Vegas event

• Upcoming Las Vegas Raiders match

• A deep dive into the life of Sonny Liston

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The best way to predict your future is to create it.”

— Abraham Lincoln

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!

In which Las Vegas hotel did Elvis Presley perform his famous residency shows in the 1970s?

A) The International Hotel (now Westgate Las Vegas)

B) The Flamingo

C) The Sands

D) The Hilton Las Vegas

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Las Vegas museum dedicated to the history of organized crime and law enforcement is A) The Mob Museum.

News

💼 Business

Nevada casino gaming win can’t keep up with record numbers. (Link)

Wrangler National Finals Rodeo wasn’t always a Las Vegas event. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Raiders promote running back, lose wide receiver to IR. (Link)

George Strait-inspired display of veterans’ art opens on Las Vegas Strip. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Las Vegas man who defrauded $7M from loan lenders sentenced to prison. (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
Monday, Dec. 9th – Friday, Dec. 13th | (More info)

🏈 Atlanta Falcons at Las Vegas Raiders
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Monday, Dec. 16th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Aaron Watson
South Point Casino, Las Vegas
Monday, Dec. 9th | (More info)

🎸 Terri Clark
Showroom, Golden Nugget, Las Vegas
Tuesday, Dec. 10th | (More info)

Family

🥊 Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Kids' Drop-in Classes (Ages 7-17)
6565 South Fort Apache Road #165, Las Vegas
Tuesday, Dec. 10th | (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 Vegasscape with a fusion of different historical eras” 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

1960: The Rat Pack performs at the Sands, iconic Las Vegas entertainment.

In 1960, the iconic Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas played host to one of the most legendary performances in entertainment history as the Rat Pack took to the stage. Comprising Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop, the Rat Pack's electrifying performances at the Sands became the epitome of cool and sophistication. Their suave demeanor, smooth vocals, and effortless camaraderie captivated audiences, making the Sands the epicenter of Las Vegas entertainment during this era.

The Rat Pack's residency at the Sands in 1960 marked a pivotal moment in the history of Las Vegas, solidifying the city's reputation as the entertainment capital of the world. Their performances were a dazzling blend of music, comedy, and charisma, drawing in crowds from around the globe. The Sands became synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the high life, and the Rat Pack's presence only added to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Decades later, the legacy of the Rat Pack's performances at the Sands continues to resonate, serving as a timeless symbol of the golden age of Las Vegas entertainment. Their influence on the city's entertainment scene remains unparalleled, and their performances at the Sands remain etched in the annals of history as a testament to the enduring allure of Las Vegas as a world-class entertainment destination.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Sonny Liston (1932–1970): Professional boxer who lived and died in Las Vegas.

Sonny Liston, born Charles L. Liston, was an American professional boxer known for his formidable presence in the ring and his tragic end in Las Vegas. His life was marked by both triumph and turmoil, making him a complex figure in the world of boxing.

Early Life and Hardship (1930s-1940s)

Sonny Liston was born in Sand Slough, Arkansas, in 1932, into a sharecropping family that faced economic hardship. He was the 24th of 25 children and received little formal education, growing up in poverty and facing numerous challenges from a young age.

Boxing Career and Rise to Fame (1950s-1960s)

Liston's boxing career began after his release from prison in 1952, and he quickly gained attention for his raw talent and powerful punches. He rose to prominence in the 1960s, becoming one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time and capturing the world heavyweight title with a crushing first-round knockout.

Connection to Las Vegas (1960s-1970s)

Liston's connection to Las Vegas became significant during the latter part of his life. In the early 1960s, he was on top of the world as boxing's heavyweight champion, but after losing the title, his life took a tragic turn, culminating in his untimely death in Las Vegas in 1970.

Tragic End and Legacy (1970)

Sonny Liston's life came to a tragic end in Las Vegas in 1970, and the circumstances surrounding his death have been the subject of speculation and investigation. His legacy as a boxer and a complex figure in sports history continues to be remembered and studied, shedding light on the complexities of fame and adversity.

Key Achievements of Sonny Liston:

• Captured the world heavyweight title with a crushing first-round knockout.

• Became one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.

• His life and career continue to be studied and remembered, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the intersection of sports, fame, and personal struggle.

Sonny Liston's story is one of triumph and tragedy, reflecting the complexities of a life lived in the public eye. His impact on the world of boxing and his connection to Las Vegas remain significant aspects of his enduring legacy.

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.

-Yannick Lyons