Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Superbowl LVIII

• Upcoming Golden Knights home game

• A deep dive into the life of Jackie Wilson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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 what year did the famous Las Vegas welcome sign, "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas," debut?

A) 1941

B) 1950

C) 1959

D) 1966

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The iconic hotel and casino known for its association with the Rat Pack is A) The Sands.

News

💼 Business

Insights into the economic benefits of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, including visitor taxes and local support for the event. (link)

Information on infrastructure improvements and strategies to support major sports events like the Super Bowl and the Las Vegas Grand Prix. (link)

Discussion about the new $1.5 billion ballpark for the Oakland A’s, including its location and impact on local businesses. (link)

🏦 Finance

Updates on the financial aspects and budgeting for the Oakland Athletics’ new stadium in Las Vegas. (link)

Projections and discussions on the potential economic impact of hosting the Super Bowl in Las Vegas. (link)

🏒 Sports

Las Vegas Grand Prix: Discussion on the impact and future plans of the event, highlighting its success and the community's support despite initial challenges. (link)

Oakland A’s Relocation: Updates on the Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas, their plans for a new stadium, and engagement with the local community. (link)

Super Bowl LVIII Preparations: Details on the city's preparations for hosting its first-ever Super Bowl, focusing on community involvement and the anticipated economic impact. (link)

The UNLV women's basketball team faced UNR at Cox Pavilion. (link)

Las Vegas Desert Dogs Game: The Las Vegas Desert Dogs played against Panther City at the Michelob Ultra Arena​​​​​​​​. (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

🏈 Super Bowl LVIII Opening Night
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Monday, Feb. 5th, 2024 at 5:00 PM | (More Info)

🏈 Super Bowl LVIII
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Sunday, Feb. 11th, 2024 | (More Info)

🏒 Vegas Golden Knights vs. Edmonton Oilers
T-Mobile Arena
Feb 6th | 10:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 U2
The Sphere, Las Vegas, NV
Feb 7th, 9th, and 10th | (More Info)

🎵 Christina Aguilera
Voltaire at the Venetian Resort, Las Vegas, NV
Feb. 9th | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Blue Man Group
Luxor Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas
Feb. 11th | (More Info)

🎩 David Copperfield
MGM Grand, Las Vegas
Feb. 11th | (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 within a giant biodome” 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

Bugsy Siegel opens the Flamingo, a major step in the Strip's development (1946)

In 1946, a key chapter unfolded in the history of Las Vegas with the opening of the Flamingo by Bugsy Siegel, a notable figure in the American mob. The Flamingo's debut marked a major step in the development of the Las Vegas Strip, setting a new benchmark for luxury and glamour in casino resorts. Siegel's vision for the Flamingo was to create an opulent oasis in the desert, unlike anything Las Vegas had seen before. It was one of the earliest establishments to combine the allure of a hotel, casino, and entertainment under one roof, a model that would become the standard for future resorts on the Strip.

The Flamingo's opening was a glamorous affair, attracting celebrities and high-profile guests, which helped establish Las Vegas as a destination for the rich and famous. Despite initial challenges, including financial troubles and Siegel's eventual assassination, the Flamingo turned into a success story, paving the way for more luxurious resorts on the Strip. It set a precedent for the kind of extravagant entertainment and hospitality that Las Vegas would become world-famous for.

Bugsy Siegel's launch of the Flamingo in 1946 was a significant moment in the Strip's development and in shaping Las Vegas' identity as a gambling and entertainment paradise. The Flamingo's success demonstrated the enormous potential of Las Vegas as a resort destination, attracting investments and inspiring the construction of other iconic establishments. This period marked the beginning of a transformative era for the Strip, establishing it as a hub of luxury and leisure that would captivate the world's imagination.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Jackie Wilson (1934–1984)

Early Years and Musical Roots (1934-1956)

Jackie Wilson, born Jack Leroy Wilson Jr. on June 9, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, showed an early affinity for music, particularly R&B and gospel. Growing up in a vibrant musical environment, he honed his singing skills in local choirs, laying the groundwork for his future career.

Breakthrough with The Dominoes and Solo Success (1957-1961)

Wilson's career took off when he joined the rhythm and blues group The Dominoes in the early 1950s. His powerful voice and charismatic stage presence quickly made him a standout performer. Wilson's solo career began in 1957 with hits like ""Reet Petite,"" showcasing his dynamic vocal range and performance style.

"Mr. Excitement" and Chart-Topping Hits (1962-1967)

Nicknamed ""Mr. Excitement,"" Wilson's energetic performances and string of hits, including classics like ""Lonely Teardrops"" and ""Higher and Higher,"" cemented his status as a soul and R&B icon. His ability to blend rock and roll, soul, and gospel elements made his music influential and timeless.

Las Vegas Performances and Showmanship (1968-1975)

Wilson's performances in Las Vegas during the late 1960s and 1970s were legendary. His dynamic stage presence, complete with dance moves and emotional vocal delivery, made him a favorite among Las Vegas audiences.

Personal Life and Challenges (1976-1979)

Despite his professional success, Wilson faced personal challenges, including tumultuous relationships and health issues. These struggles impacted his career but never diminished his musical talent or stage presence.

Tragic Onstage Incident and Declining Health (1975-1984)

In 1975, Wilson suffered a major heart attack while performing on stage, which led to a significant decline in his health. He was left in a semi-comatose state for the remaining years of his life, tragically curtailing his vibrant career.

Musical Legacy and Influence (1984 and Beyond)

Wilson passed away on January 21, 1984. His legacy in the music industry is profound, influencing artists across various genres. Wilson's contributions to soul, R&B, and rock and roll are celebrated for their innovation and emotional depth.

Posthumous Recognition and Awards (After 1984)

After his death, Wilson received numerous accolades and was inducted into multiple music halls of fame, acknowledging his significant impact on the music world.

Jackie Wilson's Key Achievements:

• Acclaimed as a pioneering figure in R&B and soul music.

• Known for his dynamic performances and powerful vocal abilities.

• Achieved multiple chart-topping hits and left an enduring legacy in music.

• Revered for his extraordinary showmanship, particularly in his Las Vegas shows.

Jackie Wilson's journey from a choir singer in Detroit to a celebrated icon in Las Vegas is a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft. His dynamic performances, emotional singing style, and influence on the development of soul and R&B have solidified his status as one of the great entertainers of the 20th century.

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-Matthew Larsen

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