Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Tesla to lay off nearly 700 in Nevada as car sales slump.

• Upcoming Las Vegas Aviators match

• A deep dive into the life of Moe Dalitz

• And more…

Quote of the Week

Keep your face towards the sunshine and shadows will fall behind you.

- Walt Whitman

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 famous Las Vegas casino was the setting for the film The Hangover?

A) The Bellagio

B) Caesars Palace

C) The Mirage

D) The Venetian

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The original MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, now Bally's Las Vegas, was opened in A) 1973.

News

💼 Business

Smoke-free casino advocates take fight to shareholders. (Link)

Critically important’: New Nevada facility aims to boost solar energy. (Link)

Las Vegas sees big convention decline, visitation up slightly. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Raiders general manager buys $4.95M Summerlin home. (Link)

LVR report shows home prices on the rise. (Link)

Tesla to lay off nearly 700 in Nevada as car sales slump. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Telesco’s 1st draft with the Raiders wasn’t a home run. And that’s OK. (Link)

Nevada Preps rankings: New No. 1 in 5A softball & boys volleyball. (Link)

Raiders’ draft class awards: Team’s best, most concerning picks. (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
Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 14th | (More info)

⚾ El Paso Chihuahuas at Las Vegas Aviators
Las Vegas Ballpark, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 14th | (More info)

⚾ El Paso Chihuahuas at Las Vegas Aviators
Las Vegas Ballpark, Las Vegas
Wednesday, May 15th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Terry Fator
Liberty Loft, Las Vegas
Monday, May 6th | (More info)

🎭 Tape Face
House of Tape in the Underground Theater, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 7th | (More info)

🎵 Duke Dumont
Zouk Nightclub, Las Vegas
Thursday, May 9th | (More info)

🎤 Autumn
Kev Love’s Music Hall, Las Vegas
Friday, May 10th | (More info)

🎤 Deadmau5
Zouk Nightclub, Las Vegas
Saturday, May 11th | (More info)

Family

🍽️ Tiny Tots Table Manners
1700 South Pavilion Center Drive, Las Vegas
Tuesday, May 7th | (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 “Futuristic sports arena in Las Vegas hosting a new, invented sport” 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

1944: Las Vegas Army Airfield (now Nellis Air Force Base) established.

In 1944, the Las Vegas Army Airfield was established, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in the military history of the region. This airfield, now known as Nellis Air Force Base, played a crucial role in training pilots and conducting gunnery training during World War II. The airfield was activated and began flying training on December 20, 1941, and later reopened as Las Vegas Air Force Base in 1949. It was eventually renamed Nellis Air Force Base in 1950 in honor of Lieutenant William Harrell Nellis, a testament to the base's enduring legacy and contribution to the nation's defense.

During World War II, the Las Vegas Army Airfield was instrumental in training pilots in the use of machine guns on bombers, reflecting the airfield's vital role in preparing military personnel for combat. Over the years, the base has evolved and expanded, becoming a key hub for advanced combat training, tactics development, and operational testing for the U.S. Air Force. The transformation of the airfield into Nellis Air Force Base stands as a testament to its enduring significance and the pivotal role it continues to play in national defense and military readiness.

Today, Nellis Air Force Base stands as a symbol of the rich military history of Las Vegas and continues to be a vital center for air combat training, tactics development, and operational testing. The legacy of the Las Vegas Army Airfield lives on through the ongoing mission of Nellis Air Force Base, serving as a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who have trained and served there over the years.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Moe Dalitz (1899–1989):

Dalitz (1899–1989): Businessman and Casino Owner:

Moe Dalitz, born Morris Barney Dalitz on December 24, 1899, in Boston, was an American gangster, businessman, casino owner, and philanthropist. He played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Las Vegas in the 20th century and was often referred to as Mr. Las Vegas. Dalitz's life was filled with intrigue and influence, and his legacy continues to be a subject of fascination and study.

Early Life and Rise to Prominence:

Morris Barney Dalitz, known as Moe, was born on December 24, 1899, in Boston. His early years were marked by a combination of ambition and street smarts, setting the stage for his future endeavors. Dalitz's journey to prominence began with his involvement in various business ventures, which eventually led him to the world of organized crime.

Influence in Las Vegas:

Dalitz's arrival in Las Vegas in 1949 marked the beginning of his significant influence on the city. At the invitation of Wilbur Clark, he became involved in the financial aspects of the Desert Inn Hotel, a move that would shape the trajectory of his career and solidify his connection to Las Vegas. His impact on the city's development and the creation of iconic landmarks is a testament to his influence in the region.

Business Ventures and Casino Ownership:

Dalitz's foray into the casino industry and ownership of various properties in Las Vegas solidified his status as a key figure in the city's history. His involvement in the Stardust Hotel, Desert Inn Hotel, Las Vegas Country Club, and other projects contributed to the transformation of Las Vegas into a thriving entertainment and gambling hub.

Connections and Associations:

Throughout his career, Dalitz was associated with influential figures such as Meyer Lansky, the Purple Gang, the Mayfield Road Mob, and the Outfit. His connections and associations shed light on the complex and multifaceted nature of his influence in the realm of organized crime and business.

Legacy and Philanthropy:

Despite his controversial associations, Dalitz's legacy extends beyond his business ventures. He was known for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to projects such as the Sunrise Hospital and supporting various charitable causes. His impact on the community and his contributions to the development of Las Vegas are part of his enduring legacy.

Key Achievements of Moe Dalitz:

• Shaped the landscape of Las Vegas in the 20th century through business ventures and casino ownership.

• Involved in the financial aspects of the Desert Inn Hotel, contributing to the city's development.

• Associated with influential figures in organized crime and business, reflecting his complex influence.

• Known for his philanthropic efforts and contributions to the community, leaving behind a multifaceted legacy.

Moe Dalitz's story is one of intrigue, influence, and complexity, reflecting the multifaceted nature of his life and career. His impact on Las Vegas and the broader realm of business and organized crime continues to be a subject of historical interest and fascination.

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-Matthew Larsen

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