Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• MGM topples food donation goal, surpassing 5M meals.

• Upcoming Las Vegas Aviators match

• A deep dive into the life of Don Rickles

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear."

— George Addair

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

T-Mobile to buy almost all of US Cellular in deal worth $4.4B. (Link)

MGM topples food donation goal, surpassing 5M meals. (Link)

Is a change in slot-machine jackpot thresholds really coming? (Link)

🏦 Finance

Rendering of Las Vegas Spaceport university building unveiled by developer. (Link)

North Strip casino taking unlimited free parking away. (Link)

Antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation, Ticketmaster could have Vegas impact. (Link)

🏒 Sports

CSN allows late rally, falls to NJCAA World Series losers bracket. (Link)

Aces waive rookie guard four games into WNBA season. (Link)

Las Vegas officials say A’s Strip ballpark timeline will be met. (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

🏀 Seattle Storm at Las Vegas Aces
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Friday, June 7th at 7:00 PM | (More info)

⚽ Miami FC at Las Vegas Lights FC
Cashman Field, Las Vegas
Saturday, June 8th | (More info)

⚾ Salt Lake Bees at Las Vegas Aviators
Las Vegas Ballpark, Las Vegas
Tuesday, June 11th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎭 Terry Fator
Liberty Loft, Las Vegas
Tuesday, June 4th | (More info)

🎤 Steve Byrne
Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club, Las Vegas
Wednesday, June 5th | (More info)

🎭 Tape Face
House of Tape in the Underground Theater, Las Vegas
Sunday, June 9th | (More info)

Family

🎪 Day in the Park, Summerlin
9198 West Arby Avenue, Las Vegas
Saturday, June 8th | (More info)

🎨 Clay Class: Tea Cup Project
6623 Las Vegas Boulevard South #140, Las Vegas
Tuesday, June 4th | (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.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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