Here are links to three L.V. Review/Journal stories on the proposed merger including a brief historical review of Harrah's. Scan from the Review/Journal.

http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jul-21-Wed-2004/business/24345083.html
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jul-21-Wed-2004/business/21129780.html
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jul-21-Wed-2004/business/24308077.html