Business briefly Dec. 3

Former Gov. List joins Vegas law firm

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Former Nevada governor Robert List has been named a senior partner at a Las Vegas law firm.

List served as Carson City district attorney and attorney general before becoming governor from 1979 to 1983.

Kolesar & Leatham announced List's hiring Wednesday.

The business law firm says List's new job will involve public policy, with an emphasis on energy and natural resources.

Las Vegas Sands plan for 2 Macau parcels rejected

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Casino-resort operator Las Vegas Sands Corp. says Chinese government officials have rejected its plans to build on two parcels in the gambling enclave of Macau's growing Cotai area.

The Las Vegas company led by billionaire Sheldon Adelson said in a regulatory filing Thursday that the Macau government denied Sands a land concession.

Sands said the government's letter says the company has 15 days to ask for a review of the decision or 30 days to take it to Macau's courts. Company officials said they're reviewing their options.

Holiday sales pushes stocks higher

NEW YORK (AP) - Strong retail sales and a healthy reading on the housing market helped stocks start December with a two-day winning streak.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose 106 points. Combined with a 249-point gain Wednesday, the Dow has had its best two-day run since July 7-8.