Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Brock Bowers won’t be outworked by his Raiders teammates.

• Upcoming Las Vegas Aces match

• A deep dive into the life of Jimmy Hoffa

• 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 Las Vegas museum is dedicated to the history of organized crime and law enforcement?

A) The Mob Museum

B) The Las Vegas Natural History Museum

C) The Neon Museum

D) The Discovery Children's Museum

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The unique attraction found at the top of the Stratosphere Tower is B) A rotating restaurant.

News

💼 Business

No disruptions reported after 700 walk off job. What’s next? (Link)

Construction can start on first phase of Las Vegas Spaceport. (Link)

Yes, this company is in bankruptcy. Yes, it’s staying in Las Vegas anyway. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Downtown hotel-casino plans $20M renovation. (Link)

New York company acquiring Vegas gaming manufacturer in $1.1B deal. (Link)

New loyalty program, bar projects could come post-Virgin casino operator change. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Aces back for 2nd White House visit, with Bidens this time. (Link)

Aces standouts detail road to recovery from foot injuries. (Link)

Brock Bowers won’t be outworked by his Raiders teammates. (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

🏀 Phoenix Mercury at Las Vegas Aces
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 21st | (More info)

⚾ West Coast Conference Baseball Tournament
Las Vegas Ballpark, Las Vegas
From May 23rd to 25th | (More info)

🏀 Indiana Fever at Las Vegas Aces
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Saturday, May 25th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Armored Saint
Count's V'amp'd, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 21st | (More info)

🎤 Steve Byrne
Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club, Las Vegas
Wednesday, May 22nd | (More info)

🎶 Maroon 5
Dolby Live at Park MGM, Las Vegas
Saturday, May 25th | (More info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
6485 S Rainbow Blvd, Las Vegas
Thursday, May 23rd | (More info)

🎭 Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
3663 South Las Vegas Boulevard #360, Las Vegas
Friday, May 24th | (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 illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures” 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

1957: The Nevada Test Site conducts its first underground nuclear test.

In 1957, the Nevada Test Site made history by conducting its first underground nuclear test, marking a significant milestone in the development of nuclear technology. This event took place in the midst of the Cold War, a period characterized by heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. The Nevada Test Site, located in the desert of Nye County, played a crucial role in the testing and development of nuclear weapons, making it a pivotal location in the nation's defense strategy.

The underground nuclear test conducted in 1957 represented a shift in testing methods, as it allowed for greater containment of the explosion and reduced the environmental impact compared to above-ground tests. This milestone demonstrated the site's commitment to advancing nuclear research while prioritizing safety and environmental considerations. The test also underscored the site's role as a key center for nuclear innovation and experimentation, shaping the course of nuclear history and national security.

The Nevada Test Site's first underground nuclear test in 1957 stands as a testament to the site's enduring legacy and its impact on the nation's nuclear capabilities. This event marked the beginning of a new era in nuclear testing, showcasing the site's pioneering efforts in advancing nuclear technology. Today, the Nevada Test Site continues to serve as a symbol of scientific and technological progress, while also reminding us of the complex history and implications of nuclear development.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Jimmy Hoffa (1913–1975?):

Labor union leader with ties to Las Vegas casino operations:

Jimmy Hoffa, born James Riddle Hoffa on February 14, 1913, in Brazil, Indiana, was a prominent American labor union leader who left an indelible mark on the labor movement. His life was marked by his involvement in unionizing and his eventual presidency of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT). Hoffa's story is also shrouded in mystery due to his infamous disappearance in 1975. Here is a comprehensive biography of Jimmy Hoffa, highlighting his early life, rise to prominence, and enduring legacy.

Early Life and Union Activism (1913-1930s):

-Born in Brazil, Indiana, in 1913, Jimmy Hoffa moved to Detroit in 1924 and left school at the age of 14 to support his family. Despite his young age, he quickly became involved in unionizing, organizing a labor strike at a grocery store to improve wages and working conditions.

Rise to Prominence in the Labor Movement (1940s-1950s):

In the 1940s, Hoffa joined the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and became the president of the union's Detroit chapter. His ambitious and aggressive nature led to the expansion of the union's membership, propelling him to national prominence within the labor movement.

Presidency of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (1957-1971):

Hoffa's leadership skills and strategic acumen led to his election as the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters in 1957. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping the labor movement and negotiating labor contracts, solidifying his status as a powerful and influential figure.

Legal Troubles and Imprisonment (1960s):

Hoffa's involvement in the labor movement was marred by legal troubles, including convictions for jury tampering, fraud, and attempted bribery. These legal battles culminated in a 13-year prison sentence, during which he continued to exert influence within the union.

Connection to Las Vegas Casino Operations:

Hoffa's ties to Las Vegas extended to his involvement in the Teamsters' Central States Pension Fund, which invested in Las Vegas casino operations. This connection raised questions about the influence of organized crime in the casino industry and Hoffa's potential involvement.

Mysterious Disappearance and Legacy (1975 and Beyond):

On July 30, 1975, Jimmy Hoffa disappeared, sparking one of the most enduring mysteries in American history. His presumed death in 1982 only deepened the intrigue surrounding his disappearance, leading to numerous theories and investigations that continue to captivate the public imagination.

Key Achievements of Jimmy Hoffa:

• President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, shaping the labor movement and negotiating labor contracts.

• Expansion of the Teamsters' membership and influence, solidifying his status as a powerful labor leader.

• Infamous connection to Las Vegas casino operations, raising questions about organized crime influence.

• Enduring legacy marked by his mysterious disappearance and the enduring fascination with his life and career.

Jimmy Hoffa's story is one of ambition, power, and enigma, leaving an indelible mark on the labor movement and American history. His legacy continues to captivate the public imagination, ensuring that his name will forever be synonymous with the intrigue and mystery that surrounded his life and disappearance.

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-Matthew Larsen

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