Vegas Magazine - Niche Media - There is a place beyond the crowds, beyond the ropes, where dreams are realized and success is celebrated. You are invited.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/61759
photography courtesy of ap photo/lennox mclendon F ront Runners memories of you THE SONG ENDED, BUT THE MELODY LINGERED ON AS THE STRIP DIMMED ITS LIGHTS FOR OL' BLUE EYES ON MAY 15, 1998. by shaké ajamian W 12 vegasmagazine.com hen Las Vegas lost one of its most beloved icons, the Strip made the ultimate sacrifice and went dark, dim- ming its famous bright lights in honor of Ol' Blue Eyes. Frank Sinatra died on May 14, 1998, throwing into mourning the hedonistic town his Rat Pack once used as a playground. The next night, nearly the entire length of the Strip briefly went dark, with many hotels flashing images of Sinatra on their marquee—the only color on an otherwise darkened street. The Strip, so bright that it is distinguishable from space, has dimmed its lights on only a few occasions, including each Earth Day, and the passing of fellow Rat Packers Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. Clearly, Sinatra's passing was a moment worthy of reverence on the Strip. From his first appearance at the Desert Inn on September 4, 1951 to his very last at the MGM Grand Theater on May 29, 1994, the Chairman of the Board com- manded audiences with his rich baritone and charismatic personality. His celebrated run at the Sands drew fans from all over the world, including other celebrities and heads of state such as President Kennedy. Sinatra and his Rat Pack came to personify the swinger image, unmatched decadence, and revelry until the sun came up over the desert sky. And Sinatra's unwavering loyalty toward Davis set the stage for racial integration and true social change on the Strip. Through Sinatra's influence, Vegas became a town that welcomed pleasure-seekers from all walks of life. His legacy leaves no doubt that this quintessential entertainer truly had the world on a string. V