David G. Schwartz (Faculty Affairs) recently published an article, “Venomous in the Extreme: Understanding Frank Sinatra’s Acrimonious 1963 Exit from Nevada Gaming.” An outgrowth of his research into the history of the Sands Hotel that culminated in the recent publication of his latest book, At the Sands, the article examines the colorful history of Sinatra in Las Vegas, centered around his 1963 standoff with Nevada gaming authorities over his open friendship with alleged mobster Sam Giancana. The Sinatra imbroglio points to the power of Nevada gaming, and the role that politics can play in that power's application.
