Welcome to The Las Vegas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Updates on the Raiders’ coaching decision

• Legends of Basketball Las Vegas Invitational

• Upcoming Cirque du Soleil events

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

- Marcus Aurelius

Photo of the Week

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 was the real name of the infamous mobster known as "Bugsy" Siegel, who played a pivotal role in the development of Las Vegas?

A) Benjamin Siegel

B) Meyer Lansky

C) Salvatore Lucania

D) Al Capone

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

What significant urban design feature does Las Vegas share with Washington D.C., Paris, and Buenos Aires?

Answer: Diagonal street patterns radiating from circles

News

💼 Business

Nevada celebrated the grand opening of its first Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at the UNLV Technology Park in Spring Valley. This center, being the 28th of its kind nationally, aims to support veterans in their entrepreneurial ventures, offering them vital resources and guidance. (link)

Members of the Culinary Union Local 226, who work for Caesars Entertainment properties, are expected to ratify a new contract. This move signifies a positive development in labor relations within the hospitality industry in Las Vegas. (link)

The Farm2Food program in Nevada, led by experienced farmers like Crystal León, is nurturing the local farming community. This program focuses on urban farming, beekeeping, and educational initiatives, thereby enhancing the state's agricultural landscape. (link)

🏦 Finance

The Formula One race in Las Vegas was expected to bring significant financial benefits to the city's economy, filling hotels and boosting profits for businesses like restaurants and casinos. However, the event also caused disruptions, such as blocked roads near the Strip, affecting hotel workers and nearby retail outlets. A proposed solution involves local government and benefiting corporate entities sharing profits to compensate affected workers and small retail shops. (link)

🏒 Sports

Despite recent setbacks, the Las Vegas Raiders are urged to keep Antonio Pierce in consideration for their coaching position. The focus is on Pierce's leadership qualities and potential to guide the team to future successes. (link)

Bishop Gorman High School’s football team added another state championship to their dynasty, showcasing exceptional talent and team spirit. The quarterback's role was pivotal in securing this latest title. (link)

📰 News

F1 will be holding an “exclusive sale” event for local residents to purchase Las Vegas Grand Prix merchandise. (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

🏀 Legends of Basketball Las Vegas Invitational (December 2) An exciting college basketball event featuring teams like Washington, Colorado State, Gonzaga, and USC. It's a great opportunity to see rising stars in action at the MGM Grand Arena. (link)

🏒 Vegas Golden Knights (December 2) The Vegas Golden Knights will be playing a home game against the Washington Capitals at the T-Mobile Arena. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Garth Brooks (November 29th) Experience the unique sounds of American singer-songwriter Garth Brooks, with a performance at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. (link)

Family

🎪 KA (Cirque du Soleil) (November 29th) KA is another exceptional Cirque du Soleil show, combining martial arts, acrobatics, and storytelling. The show presents an Asian-inspired folklore story through acrobatics and special effects, ideal for children who appreciate a good narrative. (link)

🎭 O (Cirque du Soleil) (November 30th) “O” is a water-themed Cirque du Soleil production, performed in a theater resembling an ancient European operatic house. This show includes synchronized swimming, diving, and aerial stunts, creating a unique and breathtaking experience for audiences of all ages. (link)

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 during an ice age” 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

First Helldorado Days Festival (1934)

The Helldorado Days festival, initiated in 1934, holds a special place in Las Vegas history as a celebration of the city's Western heritage. This event was created during the Great Depression as a means to attract tourists to Las Vegas, which was then a small town. The festival was named "Helldorado" to capture the spirit of the old Wild West that was synonymous with Las Vegas's early days.

The festival featured a parade, a rodeo, and other cowboy-themed events, encapsulating the essence of the Old West. It quickly became a significant attraction, drawing visitors from across the country. The Helldorado parade became a tradition, showcasing elaborate floats, cowboys, and marching bands, providing a vibrant display of local culture and history.

Over the years, Helldorado Days evolved to include more contemporary events while maintaining its focus on celebrating Las Vegas's past. It has become a beloved local tradition, reflecting the city's continued reverence for its roots in the Old West. The festival not only serves as an entertainment event but also as a reminder of Las Vegas's journey from a frontier town to a major international destination.

Las Vegans In History

Benny Binion: 1904-1989

Benny Binion, a renowned figure in the world of gambling and casinos, played a crucial role in shaping the Las Vegas we know today. His legacy, particularly the creation of the World Series of Poker, has had a lasting impact on the city and the gambling industry.

The Making of a Gambler (1904-1946)

Born in Grayson County, Texas, Benny Binion's early life was marked by poverty. He quickly learned the art of gambling and became involved in the numbers racket, laying the groundwork for his future career in casinos.

Gambling and Turbulence (1920s-1940s)

In Dallas, Binion ran illegal gambling operations and was involved in organized crime. His activities eventually led to legal troubles, prompting a move that would change his life's trajectory – heading to Las Vegas.

Arrival in Las Vegas – A New Beginning (1946-1950)

After moving to Las Vegas in 1946, Binion purchased the Eldorado Club and Apache Hotel, opening the famous Binion's Horseshoe in 1951. His casino was known for high betting limits and customer-friendly policies, which were revolutionary at the time.

Binion's Horseshoe – Changing the Game (1951-1960)

Binion's Horseshoe quickly gained fame for its unique approach to gambling and customer service. Binion introduced higher table limits and was the first to offer free drinks to slot machine players, practices that would become standard in Las Vegas casinos.

Legal Challenges and a Reputed Lifestyle (1960-1970)

Despite his success, Binion faced ongoing legal issues related to his past criminal activities. His reputed ties to organized crime kept him under close scrutiny by law enforcement.

The Birth of the World Series of Poker (1970-1980)

In 1970, Binion created the World Series of Poker (WSOP) at Binion's Horseshoe. The WSOP would grow to become the largest and most prestigious poker tournament in the world, forever changing the face of the game.

Later Years – The Icon of Las Vegas (1980-1989)

In his later years, Binion stepped back from the day-to-day operations of his casino but remained a respected figure in Las Vegas. His contributions to the gambling industry were widely recognized.

Passing and Legacy – A Lasting Impact (1989)

Benny Binion passed away in 1989, leaving behind a complex legacy. His innovative approach to casino management and the creation of the WSOP cemented his status as a gambling icon.

The End of an Era (1989-2000)

After Binion's death, his family continued to operate Binion's Horseshoe. However, the casino faced financial difficulties and changes in ownership, marking the end of an era in Las Vegas's history.

Remembering Benny Binion – The Transformation of Las Vegas (2000-Present)

Today, Benny Binion is remembered as a pioneer who helped shape modern Las Vegas. His influence on casino operations and the popularity of poker endures, reflecting his significant role in the evolution of the city's gambling industry.

Key Achievements of Benny Binion:

• Founded the World Series of Poker, turning it into the most prestigious poker event in the world.

• Transformed gambling practices with customer-focused innovations at Binion's Horseshoe.

• Played a pivotal role in shaping modern Las Vegas through his casino operations.

• Overcame a turbulent past to become one of the iconic figures in the gambling industry.

• His legacy continues to influence the casino and poker industries.

Benny Binion's story is one of resilience, innovation, and the transformation of Las Vegas into a gambling powerhouse. His contributions to the city and the world of gambling have left an indelible mark on the industry and the cultural fabric of Las Vegas.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen