Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• US Open bettor loses ‘sure thing’ $25K wager to win $250 on huge favorite.

• Upcoming Las Vegas Aviators match

• A deep dive into the life of Eddie Fisher

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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 resort, the Sahara, close its doors to undergo renovations and rebranding?

A) 1995

B) 2000

C) 2011

D) 2014

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The large dam located near Las Vegas, known for its massive size and role in hydroelectric power generation, is C) Hoover Dam.

News

💼 Business

Nevada’s stubborn unemployment suggests loosening job market, economists say. (Link)

Culinary Union members face trespass charges in protest at Virgin Las Vegas. (Link)

🏒 Sports

US Open bettor loses ‘sure thing’ $25K wager to win $250 on huge favorite. (Link)

Friday’s football roundup: Faith Lutheran powers to 3-0. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Accused by Telles of framing him, real estate firm wants convicted killer ‘in the past where he belongs. (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

⚾ Round Rock Express at Las Vegas Aviators
Las Vegas Ballpark, Las Vegas
Thu, Sep 5th - Sun, Sep 8th | (More info)

🥊 Canelo vs Berlanga
T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Saturday, Sep 14th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 RL Grime
Zouk Nightclub, Las Vegas
Thursday, Sep 5th | (More info)

🎵 Shania Twain
PH Live at Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas
Friday, Sep 6th | (More info)

Family

🎉 KID MYSTICS-HAPPY HOUR! with Debbie
2280 South Jones Boulevard, Las Vegas
Saturday, Sep 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 urban zoo in Las Vegas with holographic animals” 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

1976: Nevada's first state lottery initiative fails.

In 1976, Nevada faced a pivotal moment in its history as the state's first initiative to establish a state lottery ultimately failed. This marked one of the nearly 30 attempts to establish a lottery in Nevada since 1975, with subsequent measures in 2009 and 2011 also facing challenges in the legislative process. The push for a state lottery was met with resistance, as the original constitution of Nevada prohibited the idea, reflecting the state's historical stance on gambling and taxation. Despite public support for a state lottery, concerns about competition with the gaming industry and the potential for corruption led to the initiative's failure.

Nevada's rejection of the state lottery initiative was deeply rooted in the state's historical and constitutional context. At the time of Nevada's founding in 1864, the predominantly Mormon population viewed gambling as sinful, leading to the prohibition of a state lottery within the original constitution. Additionally, the gaming industry's influence and concerns about the impact of a state-run lottery on tax policy and revenue further complicated the initiative's prospects. Despite the public's interest in a state lottery, the legislative and constitutional barriers proved insurmountable, resulting in the failure of the 1976 initiative.

The failure of Nevada's first state lottery initiative in 1976 reflects the complex interplay of historical, constitutional, and economic factors that have shaped the state's approach to gambling and taxation. While the public's support for a state lottery was evident, the resistance from the gaming industry and the constitutional prohibition ultimately thwarted the initiative. This pivotal moment in Nevada's history sheds light on the enduring debates surrounding gambling, taxation, and the role of the state in regulating such activities, shaping the state's trajectory in the years to come.

Famous People In Las Vegas History

Eddie Fisher (1928–2010): Singer, performed regularly in Las Vegas.

Eddie Fisher, born on August 10, 1928, was the fourth of seven children. His passion for music was evident from a young age, and he began singing in top nightclubs after his discharge from the military. By 1946, Fisher was performing with renowned bands such as Buddy Morrow and Charlie Ventura, marking the beginning of his musical career.

Rise to Stardom (1946-1950)

Fisher's talent and charisma quickly propelled him to stardom, and he became one of the most popular artists of the 1950s. His smooth, romantic voice captivated audiences, and he sold millions of records during this period. Fisher's performances in top concert halls across the United States and headlining in major Las Vegas showrooms solidified his status as a musical sensation.

Personal Life and Connections (1950s-1960s)

Fisher's personal life often made headlines, particularly his relationships with actresses Debbie Reynolds and Elizabeth Taylor. His marriage to Reynolds and subsequent marriage to Taylor garnered significant media attention, overshadowing his musical achievements. Despite the controversies, Fisher's musical career continued to thrive, and he remained a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Las Vegas Residency and Performances (1950s-1970s)

Fisher's connection to Las Vegas was significant, as he performed regularly in the city's renowned showrooms. His residency at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas in 1957 was a notable highlight, showcasing his enduring popularity and drawing large audiences. Fisher's performances in Las Vegas contributed to the city's reputation as a hub for world-class entertainment.

Later Years and Legacy (1980s-2010)

In his later years, Fisher continued to be involved in the music industry, although his personal life remained a subject of public interest. His passing on September 22, 2010, marked the end of an era in the music world. Despite the controversies that surrounded him, Fisher's musical legacy endures, and he is remembered as a talented singer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape.

Key Achievements of Eddie Fisher:

• Sold millions of records during the 1950s, becoming one of the most popular artists of the era.

• Hosted his own TV show, The Eddie Fisher Show, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.

• Performed regularly in major Las Vegas showrooms, contributing to the city's reputation as an entertainment capital.

• Left a lasting musical legacy, captivating audiences with his smooth, romantic voice and enduring popularity.

• Remains a prominent figure in the history of popular music, despite the controversies that surrounded his personal life.

Eddie Fisher's life was a testament to the enduring power of music and the complexities of fame. His journey from a young singer in nightclubs to a celebrated performer in Las Vegas reflects the highs and lows of a remarkable career. Fisher's musical legacy continues to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his contributions to the entertainment industry are remembered for generations to come.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen