Born in Overton, Nevada, in 1923, Betty Willis made her mark in a field where few women dared to venture: sign design. With her signature blend of artistry and innovation, she worked for industry giants like YESCO and Ad-Art, crafting signs that shaped the city’s visual identity. Her crowning achievement—the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign—is recognized around the world. Willis also designed beloved neon landmarks like the Moulin Rouge and Blue Angel Motel. (fb)

Matchbook Monday! The Aladdin had a colorful history, originally opening in 1966 as a reimagined version of Kings Crown Tally Ho. Despite the Aladdin’s size and appeal, it was beset by financial woes, mob involvement, and legal challenges. These problems, combined with multiple ownership changes and denied requests for expansions, made it difficult for the hotel to thrive. In 2000, a new Aladdin hotel opened, centered around the Aladdin Theatre for the Performing Arts. The newly branded Arabian Nights-themed resort featured a shopping center, restaurants, and meeting rooms. However, financial troubles once again spelled the end for Aladdin, and in 2003, Caesars Entertainment acquired the property. (fb)