Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Expansion of Tech Hub in Downtown Las Vegas

• Matchroom Boxing at The Cosmopolitan

• A deep dive into the life of Harry Belafonte

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

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!

Which iconic Las Vegas hotel and casino, opened in 1952, was known for its association with the Rat Pack?

A) The Sands

B) Tropicana

C) The Dunes

D) Stardust

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The first casino to be built on the Strip was B) The Flamingo.

News

💼 Business

A major tech company plans to expand in Downtown Las Vegas, aiming to create a tech hub and job opportunities. (link)

A renowned Las Vegas resort announces a multi-million dollar renovation to enhance luxury guest experiences. (link)

A Las Vegas gaming tech company launches innovative gaming products to revolutionize the casino industry. (link)

🏦 Finance

Las Vegas invests in infrastructure improvements including roads, public transit, and utilities. (link)

Financial summit in Las Vegas focuses on diversifying the economy beyond tourism into tech, renewable energy, and healthcare. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Las Vegas Raiders strategize for the NFL Draft, focusing on strengthening their defense with top prospects. (link)

The Vegas Golden Knights maintain a winning streak, led by goalie Marc-André Fleury's performance against the San Jose Sharks. (link)

UNLV basketball's David Jenkins Jr. emerges as a star player, boosting the team's prospects and fan excitement. (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

🏀 UNLV Rebels Men's Basketball vs Fresno State Bulldogs
Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 11:00 PM | (link)

🥊 Matchroom Boxing
The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 11:00 AM | (link)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Isaiah Rashad
House Of Blues, Las Vegas
Sunday, Jan. 29th | 7:00 PM | (link)

🎤 The Mountain Goats
24 Oxford at Virgin Hotels, Las Vegas
Monday, Jan. 30th | Evening | (link)

🎵 Donny Osmond
Harrah's Showroom, Las Vegas
Monday, Jan. 30th | Evening | (link)

Family

🦁 Lion Habitat Ranch
Lion Habitat Ranch, Las Vegas
Sunday, Jan. 29th - Sunday, Feb. 4th | All Day | (link)

Image of the Week

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

This week, I typed in “Retro-futuristic 1950s style Las Vegas with modern technology” 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

Opening of the El Rancho Vegas, the first resort on the Strip (1941)

In 1941, a significant development in Las Vegas' history occurred with the opening of El Rancho Vegas, the first resort on what would become the famous Las Vegas Strip. This event marked the beginning of the transformation of a stretch of highway into one of the world's most iconic entertainment corridors. El Rancho Vegas, situated on a dusty road south of downtown Las Vegas, was envisioned as a western-themed resort, offering a unique blend of luxury and leisure far from the city center.

El Rancho Vegas set a new standard for accommodations and entertainment in Las Vegas. It featured lavish amenities such as a swimming pool, a showroom, and a casino, something quite novel at the time. This resort became a model for future developments on the Strip, blending gambling, entertainment, and hospitality in a way that had not been seen before. Its success paved the way for other resorts, catalyzing the growth of the Strip as a hotspot for tourists seeking entertainment and gambling.

The opening of El Rancho Vegas in 1941 was a milestone in Las Vegas' evolution into a resort destination. It marked the beginning of the Strip's development into a world-renowned entertainment district, hosting some of the most famous hotels and casinos in the world. El Rancho's innovation and success were instrumental in shaping the character and reputation of Las Vegas, setting the stage for its rise as a global entertainment capital.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Harry Belafonte (1927–2023)

Early Life and Caribbean Roots (1927-1945)

Harry Belafonte, born in Harlem, developed his love for Caribbean music during his childhood in Jamaica. This foundation shaped his unique artistic style, blending traditional Caribbean sounds with contemporary American influences.

Theatrical Beginnings and Musical Integration (1946-1952)

In New York, Belafonte's theatrical career began, where he integrated singing with acting, drawing from his Caribbean heritage. His performances showcased a blend of cultural influences, setting the stage for his later success.

Rise to Fame and Las Vegas Performances (1953-1956)

Belafonte's album "Calypso" brought him international fame. His Las Vegas performances during this time were groundbreaking, introducing Calypso music to a wider audience and setting a new standard for live entertainment in the city.

Hollywood Career and Vegas Impact (1957-1963)

While starring in films, Belafonte's influence in Las Vegas grew. His shows there, often juxtaposing his film career with live musical performances, broke new ground in entertainment, combining cinematic and musical art forms.

Civil Rights Activism and Vegas Advocacy (1964-1970)

An advocate for civil rights, Belafonte used his platform in Las Vegas to promote the movement, often addressing social issues in his performances and public appearances in the city.

Continued Artistry and Vegas Appearances (1971-1980)

Throughout the 70s, Belafonte balanced activism with his artistic career. His ongoing Vegas shows reflected this dual role, blending entertainment with advocacy.

Global Activism and Las Vegas Recognition (1981-1990)

Belafonte's humanitarian efforts were recognized globally, including in Las Vegas, where his contributions to culture and social justice were celebrated.

Artistic Legacy and Vegas Commemorations (1991-2000)

Belafonte's legacy was honored in Las Vegas, where his influence on entertainment and culture was commemorated through various tributes and events.

21st Century: Advocacy and Enduring Influence in Vegas (2001-Present)

Continuing his advocacy, Belafonte's impact remains evident in Las Vegas, where his pioneering work in entertainment and social activism is still recognized and celebrated.

Harry Belafonte’s Key Achievements:

• Pioneering Calypso musician who influenced Las Vegas entertainment.

• Actor who broke racial barriers, including in Vegas performances.

• Civil rights activist who used his Vegas platform for advocacy.

• Honored globally and in Las Vegas for artistic and humanitarian work.

Harry Belafonte's career, marked by a blend of music, acting, and activism, had a significant impact on Las Vegas's entertainment scene. His performances in the city were not just entertainment but also platforms for social change, making him a revered figure in both the artistic and social spheres.

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-Matthew Larsen

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