Because of these allegations, coupled with lackluster management, New Frontier was about to go under. State authorities were gung-ho on ridding the mob reputation from the Strip and therefore contacted Howard Hughes, who was in the process of declaring his own war on the mob, regarding a possible purchase. On September 22, 1967, Hughes bought his beloved resort for $14 million from all owners and shortened the name to "The Frontier". Almost immediately after the purchase, The Frontier started turning a profit.


Howard Hughes

During this time Frontier Hotel advertised 600 luxurious rooms and suites, coffee shop, Frontier Steak House, Cabaret Gourmet Dining Room, Olympic size swimming pool, six day and night tennis courts, putting green, six speciality shops, superb convention facilities, and an elegant casino.

To date, I can find no records of what entertainers, if any, appeared at the Frontier in 1966 through August of 1967. I have Fabulous Las Vegas magazines for those years and the Frontier did not advertise any shows. It appears artists were showcased almost immediately after Hughes' purchase.

Venus Room showcased in the latter part of 1967 Al Alvarez Orchestra, Ed Ames, Ballet America, Black Theatre of Prague, Europa '68 with Karel Gott, Eddie Fisher/Abbe Lane, Mickie Finn Show with Fred & Mickie Finn & featuring The Dapper Four, Joey Forman, Henry Levine Orchestra, National Folk Lore Dance Company of Czechoslovakia, and Yonely. Present during Fisher and pregnant Lane's opening night was Ernest Borgnine.

Post Time Theatre showcased Kook's Tour with Ben Blue/Barbara Heller, Beverlee & The Sneakers, Tony Bruno, Gogi Grant, It's Hell Revue starring Jerry Lester/Phyllis/Bobby Sherwood, Jack E. Leonard, The Karel Gott Quintet, Jimmy Cavallo Quartet with Terry Marell & Mario Betolino, and Frank Sinatra, Jr. During one of the shows, Leonard said he was noticing how the men were growing long sideburns. He raised many laughs when he began calling them "Lice Ladders." It was also noted that during Beverlee & The Sneakers last show, a long standing ovation occurred with Doug McClure of The Virginian sitting in the audience.

In 1967, Richard Hubert and Nick Kelly were Managers of the Venus Room, Les Boder managed the men's shop, Tommy Clare was the host, Olin Askew was Pit Manager, and Keith Fletchell was a dealer.

In February 1968, Hughes established the first Vegas computerized room reservations system at the Frontier. It was noted that Department Manager Charlotte Ellsworth was learning the system night and day.

In 1968, Venus Room showcased Al Alvarez Orchestra, The Sid Caesar-Imogene Coca Show with the Larry Bertholet Dancers, George Carlin, Bill Cosby, Bobby Darin/Irwin C. Watson, Jimmy Durante/Sonny King/Eddie Jackson, Jimmy Durante/Barbara McNair, Barbara Eden, Eddie Fisher, Phil Harris/Doodletown Pipers, Jackie Kahane, Kids Next Door, Abbe Lane/Eddie Jackson/Sonny King, Peggy Lee, Henry Mancini, Guy Marks, Scoey Mitchell, Barbara McNair, Jim Nabors, Peter Nero, Wayne Newton with Jerry Newton, Osmond Brothers, Pair Extraordinaire, Pearce Sisters, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Ronnie Schell, La Vaughn, Jerry Vale, Joe Venuti, Irwin C. Watson, Flip Wilson, and Stanley Wrightsman.

It was noted that Wayne Newton signed a two-year pact at the resort for $50,000 a week.

The Post Time Theatre showcased Akropols of Greece, Arirang Korean Dancers, Beverlee & The Sneakers, Vic Damone, Doodletown Pipers, Rusty Draper, Carey Garfin Four, Harry James, In Vogue with Liliane Montevecchi/Nick Navarro, Korean Palace Dancers, Jack E. Leonard, Barbara McNair, Pow '68, Phyllis & Bobby Sherwood, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Three Cheers, Tony Thomas/The Tartars, and Lovelace Watkins.

The Circle F Theatre showcased Dave Burton, Harry James, Beverlee & The Sneakers, Jack & Sally Jenkins, and Korean Palace Dancers.

Apparently in October of 1968, the Frontier advertised its Americana Room which was the convention center. One celebrity showcased there was Eric London.

During his tenure at the Frontier in 1968, Jimmy Durante was asked the truth behind "Goodnight Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are." Durante stated that his first wife fell in love with a small town named Calabash, just west of Chicago. At the time, Durante promised his bride he would buy the town for her when fortune smiled on him. It was just after his first wife passed away in 1943, that he began using his famous sign-off. In 1968, it was reported that the town of Calabash had either bowed to progress or was too small to be listed on the map as no one could locate it after Durante confessed the statement's origins.

It was noted during the Three Cheers tenure at the Frontier that their clothes were very much different than their last stay. They stated the stage clothes worn before burned in a fire at The Embers in Nashville, and the troupe had to quickly pick another set before arriving at the Frontier.

In 1969, Frontier was celebrating the success of their first newsletter "The Frontiersman." Due to its great success, a second issue was mailed out in the summer. The editor was Hank Kovell and Paula Hanisch. Kovell was a 13 year resident of Vegas. He is the Public Relations Director of the resort and was also Presidient of his own advertising firm, Kovell, Inc. A native of San Francisco, CA, he did free lance radio and TV writing. He was a 47 year old bachelor, but has an adopted son. Hanisch was working in the Publicity Department just four days after coming to Vegas. A native of Seattle, WA, she was an avid skiier, and enjoyed travelling.

The resort's Managing Director, Henry Schwind, was given another assignment in the Hughes Corporation which sent him to the East Coast. Richard Danner was appointed his successor. A native of Elnora, Indiana, his early years were spent in Steubenville, Ohio. He was affiliated with the FBI for ten years, following which he joined the City of MIami as City Manager and Safety Director. He then began as association with the Lincoln-Mercury Division of Ford. Later he managed the successful political campaign of George Smathers for U.S. Senate. Danner was married with three grown children. Daughter Jeanne was a model and fashion coordinator at Neiman-Marcus in Dallas, Texas, son Richard, Jr., was a lawyer in Dallas, and son Robert Thomas was attending college in Georgia.

The resort also had a new Casino Manager, Harry Goodheart. He was with the Desert Inn for eight years. For 23 years, he was associated with the Beverly Hills Country Club in Southgate, Kentucky. Originally from Kansas City, MO, he and his wife Margaret had two children, a son Michael who was a law student at UCLA, and son Gary, a student of the University of Santa Barbara.

Click Here for employees listed during 1969, 1970, and 1971.

The tennis courts saw Nevada Governor Paul Laxalt, and the Newport Harbor Tennis Club from Newport Beach, CA.

Click Here to see a shot of the resort. Notice the International (LV Hilton), Landmark, and the signs for Desert Inn and Castaways in the background.

Click Here to see some visitors from this year including Mr. & Mrs. Ljubormir Ljubic, Consul General of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in San Francisco with Richard Danner, Count De Vogue from France who owned the Moet Winery in Shandon with Head Chef Gilbert Pierrel who was also from France, Minnesota Governor Harold LeVander with Hank Kovell, and O.J. Simpson with Credit Manager Milton Frank and Harry Goodheart.

Also during this time a film crew from Japan taped some TV commericals. Produced by the Yashica Camera Company, segments included players engaged in the various games of chance.

Frontier hosted its Miss Rodeo America. Patricia Eaves won the state title of Miss Rodeo New Mexico, and then became Miss Rodeo America for 1969.

Conventions this year included National Association of Retail Druggists, and National Sporting Goods Association (5,000 delegates each); Mobil Oil Dealers (3,000 delegates); and American Federation of Information Processing Societies (15,000 delegates). Yamaha had their convention at the resort. Pictured are Assistant National Sales Manager Terry Tiernan with wife Barbara and model Tina Gordon in H.B. Burnett Ladies' Apparel Shop; Colorado Springs dealer Jerry Manka with wife at the resort's Gifts Galore shop; and, Colorado Springs delegate Paul B. Brokow with wife Anne, with salesman Sal Gaamboa of Monte Factor/Jerry Rothschild men's wear. The Aerospace Systems Safety Conference was also held at the resort with Brig. Gen. Benjamin H. King, Air Force Director, speaking with convention coordinator Seve Waldman.

Gina Lollobrigida stayed at the resort while appearing in the Ed Sullivan show filmed in Vegas. She met with Wayne Newton at the Cabaret Room.

In October of 1969, Robert Goulet joined International star Don Ho in a friendly card game. A man of honor, Goulet had David Leland deliver payment of his losses to Ho. Ho broke up when Leland poured a bucket full of nickels on the dresser, explaining the Frontier wanted the container back right away.

In 1969, Frontier's Music Hall showcased Ray Charles w/Billy Wallace/The Raeletts/Don Lon Fontaine Dancers/Ray Charles Orchestra, Jimmy Dean, Jerry Vale, Jimmy Durante, and Abbe Lane. Also showcased were Al Alvarez Orchestra, Glen Ash, George Burns, John Byner, George Carlin, Diana & George, Barbara Eden, Eddie Fisher, Folklorika (afternoons), Robert Goulet, Phil Harris, Harry James, The Imperials, Kids Next Door, The King Cousins, George Kirby, Korean Palace Dancers, Abbe Lane, Guy Marks, Mexican Dance Festival, Wayne Newton, Wayne Newton/Jerry Newton/Tommy Amato, Bob Newhart & Kim Sisters, Dick Shawn, The Supremes & Diana Ross, Willie Tyler, Unusual We, and Cherry Wainer. George Carlin was fired for using the word "ass" at one of his shows for the Hughes Invitational Tournament. The Maitre d' was Jerry Schutz.

The Circle F Theatre showcased Beverlee & The Sneakers, Vic Damone, Deedy & Bill, Doodletown Pipers, Loree Frazier, Carey Garfin Four, Jack & Sally Jenkins, Harry James, Jack E. Leonard, Let's Make Love Revue, Laura Lys, Frank Sinatra, Jr., The Swing Set, Three Cheers, Tokyo Happy Coats, and Cherry Wainer. During this year Doodletown Pipers was signed for five more TV syndication specials by Triangle Productions, and Warner & Arts Records rep went to see Beverlee & The Sneakers with the hopes of signing the group on with his label.

The Doodletown Pipers had their picture taken while on location near Vegas for a series of TV specials.

When Frank Sinatra, Jr., appeared at the Circle F in September, 1969, the audience included Sammy Davis, Jr., Dick Shawn, Carol Channing, Abbe Lane, Lainie Kazan, Mike Romanoff, Richard Conte, Nancy Sinatra, Sr., Nancy Sinatra, Jr., and pop Frank.

(left) Al Alvarez had his picture taken with Marco Valenti and Frank Sennes, Jr.

The Cabaret showcased Buddy Bohn, Dave Burton, Mariano, and Bob Sims.

In October of 1969, Ray Anthony signed a $1/2 million contract with Frontier to appear at the resort 20 weeks in 1970, and 20 more in 1971.

The Frontier took out an ad in the 1969 Holiday issue of the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine wishing everyone happy holidays. On February 10th, Wayne Newton took a break from performing at the Frontier to entertain troops in Vietnam. His brother Jerry, and conductor Tommy Amato accompanied the singer.

The Cabaret Room restaurant offered a lengthy continental menu. A patron can choose their own wine from the Frontier's own wine room. All dishes were a la carte and served from 6:00pm to 5:00am. From 11:00pm on there was entertainment and dancing. Showcased during this year was Dave Burton, and Bob Sims.

Also during this year, a poll was taken at the Frontier which discovered that one dealer was from France and several were Cuban nationals. Married men outnumbered bachelors three to one. Of those who were married, the average was slightly over 12 years, topped by one man who was married for 33 years. These men averaged slightly less than two children each, the most having five children. Ages of the dealers ranged from 25 to 69. One dealer lived in Las Vegas less than two years and another almost a quarter of a century. Average length of residence was just over eight years. Experience varied up to 47 years for one man. The average of the Frontier dealers was just over 13 years.

During this poll, it was discovered that only about one-third claimed any education beyond high school, although almost all had completed high school. Several had college degrees. A few were taking courses in flying, real estate, English, and computer programming. When asked about previous jobs, the dealers stated Deputy Collector of the Internal Revenue Serve, beautician, stunt worker, lawyer, musician, carpenter, salesmen and owners of small businesses. Exactly one-half of the dealers owned or were buying their own homes, while the other half were apartment or mobile home dwellers. When polled about their off-work activities, they stated fishing, hunting, water skiing, swimming, golf, boating, bowling, gardening, raising chinchillas, do-it-yourself projects, reading, stamp collecting, softball, tennis, art and skeet and trap-shooting.

The poll stated that more than half of the dealers belonged to civic, social or fraternal organizations. The Elks, Masons, Optimists, Knights of Columbus, VFW, Moose, Lions and Eagles were among those mentioned. Church work, scouting, and ethnic participation were also included.

In 1970:

The Frontier advertised six tennis courts, three of them lighted for night play. The resort offered a pro shop and equipment was available. A tennis pro was on duty. The Frontier maintained continuing memberships for guests who wanted to play golf.

The shops included Frontier Jewels located in the lobby, H.B. Burnett for women's apparel located adjacent to the lobby, Monte Factor/Jerry Rothschild for men's furnishings located near the lobby, and the Newsstand, Gift and Tobacco Shop. The resort also included a barber shop located on the main floor and a beauty shop located on the second floor.

Restaurants included the Cabaret for gourmet dining, Frontier Steak House for steaks, chops, chicken and seafood, Buffet, and Pioneer Room which was a 24 hour coffee shop.

Click Here to see photos of some of Frontier's slots, her casino, and an aerial shot.

Employee Pat Hardy's favorite statement was "Would you like to ride in my little red wagon?" The employees decided to take her up on the offer and bought Hardy a little red wagon. Pictured with her are Pat Lichtenberger and Priscilla Alexander.

Charlotte Ellsworth, Frontier's Reservations Manager, is pictured receiving her commission as an Admiral in the Nebraska Navy from Dr. Theodore Koefoot during a convention.

Frontier and International Rodeo Management hosted its 1970 Miss Rodeo America Pageant. Some of the representatives were Luann Jean Corn - Kansas, Janet Guenther - Washington, Virginia Hunter - Nevada, Ann Miller - New Mexico, Susan Summers - Oklahoma, Eunice Kay Alexander - Texas, and Wendy Courchaine - Wyoming. Pictured is winner Christine Vincent of California, as well as actor Chill Wills with Summers on the left and Alexander on the right.

In the Spring 1970 Newsletter, Frontier described a celebration of sorts with 1. The departure of Diana Ross from the renowned vocal group, Diana Ross and the Supremes; 2. The establishment of Diana Ross as a single star in her own right; 3. The creation of a new "Supremes," combining the talents of two of the former group - Cindy Birdsong and Mary Wilson - with that of a newcomer to the group, Jeanne Terrell.

Motown, the company which supervised the bookings, recordings and other activities of the Supremes, and many other superstars was at the resort in force, headed by the firm's President, Barry Gordy, Jr. Stars of TV and the legitimate stage, of nightclubs and motion pictures, press representatives, and VIPs of stature converged upon the Frontier to observe the final performance of Diana, Cindy, and Mary as a group. TV star Steve Allen went on stage during Ross' closing performance and serenaded her. Lou Rawls also did a bit on stage during Ross' closing performance.

There were presentations by U.S. Senator Howard Cannon, who read a telegram of salute from Ed Sullivan; gifts presented by the Frontier's Entertainment Director, Frank Sennes; and a Wall of Fame plaque presented by the Frontier's Managing Director, Richard G. Danner.

Frontier claimed May 7, 1970 as D-Day - Diana Ross Day as Ross made her first solo appearance at the resort on that date.

Frontier's Music Hall showcased Al Alvarez Orchestra, Teresa Brewer, John Byner, George Carlin, Jimmy Durante, Frank Gorshin, Robert Goulet, Phil Harris & Harry James, Eddie Jackson, Happy Jesters, The Kids Next Door, Abbe Lane, Leonardo, Vega Maddux, Al Martino, Bob Melvin, Bob Newhart, Wayne Newton with Jackie Kahane/Jerry Newton/Tommy Amato, Pearce Sisters, Ann Richards, Diana Ross with Sammy Shore, Ronnie Schell, Glenn Smith/The Fables, The Supremes, and The Unusual We. The Maitre d's was Jerry Sheutz, and Roy McNeely. It was reported that parts of George Carlin's live album was taped at his September 19, 1970, appearance at the Frontier. During one of his shows Wayne Newton received three standing ovations and hadn't even gone through three quarters of his show.

In July, Jimmy Durante was hospitalized and could not perform. Frank Gorshin was called in to substitute for the superstar. Gorshin, an impressionist, amazed the audiences with Van Heflin, Alfred Hitchcock, Burt Lancaster, Rod Steiger, Bela Lugosi, Kirk Douglas, John Wayne, Richard Burton, Walter Matthau, Tony Franciosa, and Lon Chaney among others. Helping Gorshin was Vic Damone, Jack E. Leonard, and Teresa Brewer (who was scheduled to appear with Durante).

The Circle F Theatre showcased Angel Brothers, D'Andrea & Angel, Ray Anthony, Kay Ballard, Beverlee & Sidro With The Sneakers, Dick Contino, Vic Damone, Linda Price & The Pipers, Diana George, Handbags & Glad Rags, Bob Sims Trio, Bobby Bryan, The Inner Circle, Leland Four, Lyrics, Ltd., Barry Monroe, Jana Mitchell & The Paris Brothers, Bob Sims Trio, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Sound Concept, Three Cheers, Tsaif Sisters Five, Jerry Vale, Tokyo Happy Coats, and Cherry Wainer. The Cabaret showcased Dave Burton, and Bob Sims.

Frank Sinatra, Jr., was surprised with a trophy presented by Frontier's Administrative Director, Keith Hanna. Frank was stopped onstage during a performance in the Circle "F" by co-star Phil Harris, who in turn introduced the Mayor pro-tem of Vegas, Hank Thornley. Thornley read a proclamation of appreciation from the Vegas community, commending Sinatra for a TV special filmed in and around Vegas entitled Frank Sinatra, Jr., with Family and Friends.

Apollo 13 astronauts stayed at the Frontier after their experience en route to the moon.

The Howard Hughes Invitational Tennis Tournament took place at the Frontier's courts where 16 tennis greats vied for their share of $50,000 in cash prizes. In addition to the professionals who competed, 12 prominent citizens joined in the for Funtime Celebrity Tournament. Participants were Ed Ames, Earl Buchholz, Cliff Drysdale, Roy Emerson, James Franciscus, Andres Gimeno, Pancho Gonzalez, Charleton Heston, Ron Holmberg, Kirk Kerkorian, Alan King, Rod Laver, Robert Maheu, Doug McClure, Ray Moore, John Newcombe, Dennis Ralston, Tony Roche, Ken Rosewall, Pancho Segura, Sammy Shore, Neil Simon, Ted Stauffer, Fred Stolle, Roger Taylor, Torben Ulrich, Robert Wagner, and Efrem Zimbalist, Jr. Winners in the Tournament were Neil Simon, Tony Roche, Pacho Segura, and Ed Ames. The presentation was made by tournament host Alan King. At the Awards Banquet clowning around took place between Chief of Operations of Hughes Nevada Operations Robert A. Maheu, and Tournament Host Alan King.

A group picture of players at the Frontier's tournament included Dennis Ralston, Robert Wagner, Sammy Shore, Diana Ross, Ed Ames, and Pancho Segura.

Charities for this year were the Easter Seals with Honorary National Chairman Jimmy Durante, and Las Vegas area's Easter Seal child for 1970, David Lawrence, and the American Cancer Society. Frontier's Director of Sales, Hal Chandler received an award which read "In grateful acknowledgment of outstanding service to the cause of cancer control during the Society's annual crusade." In the picture are Hal Chander, Chairman of the American Cancer Society Seminar Dr. Hugh Folmer, and Executive of Hughes-Nevada Operation & Clark County Chairman of the Cancer Crusade Peter Maheu.

On July 5, 1970, Circle F caused a first for the Strip with its closing to Sunday audiences. Never before had a main lounge gone completely dark on one specific night.

On November 1, 1970, Frontier's Music Hall presented a free concert featuring the Lou Rovner Big Band. Entitled "New Directions in Jazz", the concert showcased original jazz compositions and arrangements by the 24 year old Rovner. The concert was sponsored by the American Federation of Musicals, Local 369, and the Frontier Hotel.

During this year the Circle F Lounge, Steak House Bar, and Bar None advertised $.75 drinks from 5:00 to 6:30pm, plus free hot and cold hors d' oeuvres.

The Frontier also served two buffets for $1.95 for adults and $1.50 for kids. The weekend brunch offered chilled fruit juices, assorted fruit delicacies, juicy melons, pastries, scrambled eggs, domestic and imported cheeses, fresh baked breads and rolls, lox and bagels, hash brown potatoes, and a daily selection of braised beef tips, beef stroganoff, corned beef, chicken saute, and other fish, meat and poultry dishes. The weekday Businessman's Lunch offered cottage cheese, macaroni salad, seafood salad, marinated herring in sour cream, potato salad, cole slaw, cucumber salad, health salads, assorted breads, rolls and pastries, crown round of beef, Kosher lean corned beef, southern fried chicken, and hobo beef stew.

Click Here to see employees during this year.

The Frontier sponsored the Frontier Hotel Belles fast pitch softball team. As second year members of the Copperstate Women's AAA Softball League.

Some of the guests pictured at the resort were Erskine Caldwell (God's Little Acre), Laker's star Egin Baylor with Casino Manager Harry Goodheart, and Los Angeles Rams Myron Pottios and Roman Gabriel with Goodheart. Governor Paul Laxalt with his family spending Easter at the resort, syndicated columnist Eve Starr celebrated her birthday at the resort with Director of Public Relations, Hank Kovell, and Bill Kennedy, columnist for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner (and Starr's husband).

These pictures include: Mr. & Mrs. Tony Belott, Mrs. Darryl Zanuck and son-in-law and daughter Susan, Mr. & Mrs. Peirre Savineau, and Sands Hotel Executive Brig. Gen. Charles Baron dined with Jimmy Durante; Mr. & Mrs. Lorne Greene and Casino Manager Harry Goodheart shared a meal; and Jerry Van Dyke visited Bob Newhart in his dressing room.

Jimmy Durante greeted the Torque Pawnbroker at the Frontier with its driver Dwane Ong. This was advertised as a new radical 220 plus MPH ear-engine dragster. The unique car was unveiled at the Pacific Automotive Show held at the Convention Center, and was sponsored by Torque, an oil additive manufactured by Casite Division, Hastings Manufacturing Company.

At the "Undeclared" candidates for Governor function held at the Frontier, a surprise candidate threw his hat in breaking up the function. On the opposite side of the sign declared "See You At The Midnight Show". Frontier also decided to name their Playmale of the Month. Click Here to see the pictures.

In December of 1970, more than 700 children of Frontier's employees attended the annual Kids Christmas party in the Music Hall. Comic Jackie Kahane emceed the entertainment portion, but was upstaged by Santa Claus.

The Frontier advertised Boneless Spencer Steak for $4.96 and steak and lobster combination plate for $5.25. Both entrees were served with a cheese tray, Boston bib lettuce salad, potatoes, onion rings, vegetable du jour, and broiled tomato.

During 1970, the Music Hall showcased Al Alvarez, Jimmy Durante/Eddie Jackson, Robert Goulet, and Bob Melvin. The Cabaret showcased Dave Burton, and Bob Sims.

The Circle F showcased Vic Damone.

In the January of 1971, Las Vegas experienced one of the coldest spells ever recorded in Clark County. The fountain in the Frontier's courtyard took on a very special artwork. It was gone by the afternoon though when temperatures climbed to 65 degrees.

In March of 1971, it was reported that Horst G. Frank was appointed General Manager of the resort succeeding Richard D. Danner who became Vice President for all of Howard Hughes hotel properties.

Also in March of 1971, Anita Laurie was chosen to represent the resort in the Miss Nevada/Universe pageant at Caesars Palace on April 18th. Laurie was in her freshman year at UNLV and planned to major in P.E.

Also in 1971, Territorial Manager for Renault Corporation Jacques Renaud came from Paris to attend the Allis Chalmers Convention. While inspecting the Frontier's Cabaret, Renaud discovered he had two fellow countrymen in the Food and Beverage Department.

Jimmy Durante had a very busy time while at the Frontier. Following one of his regular dinner show performances, Durante had gone directly from the Music Hall to the Frontier's convention hall - The Americana Room, where more than 500 local citizens were gathered for a Chamber of Commerce dinner, and proceeded to do another show especially for them. Less than an hour later, he was back in the Music Hall to do his midnight show. During this engagement, he was also available for radio, television and newspaper interviews, to work as National Chairman for the Easter Seals campaign, and to lend his many talents and famous physiognomy to a dozen other charities and civic events - all without pay.

As Durante took the mike in the Americana Room, he was surprised to see his two co-stars Eddie Jackson and Sonny King in the audience.

"We've got to see the people who have helped to make this the best town in the world! This town hasn't even scratched the surface yet. It's grown from nothing and you people, God bless you, are making it into one of the finest towns in the world." - Jimmy Durante, 1971

Click here for pictures from that night.

Also in 1971, comments were made about the front of the resort. There were hundreds of red roses of one variety blooming like the pattern of a Persian carpet. People were stunned at the beauty of the roses on this desert road. Additionally, Frontier General Manager Richard Danner left his post to become staff Vice President for the Hughes Corporation. Hughes Corporation appointed Horst G. Frank to replace Danner. Frank was with the Hilton Hotels for nine years before taking this position.

In July of 1971, Frontier made a daring move by reducing its showroom minimum to $8.50. The resort also had a no-admission arcade where children can play and listen to their favorite music on a juke box, all with qualified supervision.

Also in 1971, Frontier held its Miss Rodeo America. The contestants were Susanne Tellier - Arizona, Margaret Surplus - Washington, Sandra Roubique - Louisana, Cheryl Lee Whitlock - Arkansas, Lana Dee Brachenbury - Idaho, Rosemary Veigel - Missouri, Susan Di Biase - Nevada, Linda Sheehan - Wyoming, Dee Watt - Northern Canada, Deborah Jean Deerman - New Mexico, Janet Donley - Colorado, Diana Drummond - Southwest International, Lee Ann Bowman - Southern Canada, Cathy Moon - North Dakota, Kay Wilson - Nebraska, Kathy Kirkpatrick - Oklahoma, Christy Eakin - Texas, Jennifer Gould - Oregon, Sharon Sinse - Utah, Bonnie Lee Stockdale - California, Kristi Osbourn - Kansas, and Kathy Norman - South Dakota. Lana Brackenbury, age 19, was crowned Miss Rodeo America by Wayne Newton in the resort's Music Hall. Besides extensive wardrobes, Brackenbury was awarded a scholarship and a hand tooled buckle and saddle. Her travels in 1971-1972 were expected to take her more than 80,000 miles to fairs, rodeos and conventions.

Also in 1971, various pictures of the resort were taken for their magazine The Frontiersman.

The year 1971 was a big one for Frontier. Please click here to see pictures from 1971. They are described as: In the audience of Wayne Newton's show were Astronauts Walt Cunningham and Jack Swigert of Apollos 7 and 13 respectively; Senator Leroy Johnson from Georgia presented the Supremes - Cindy Birdsong, Mary Wilson, and Jean Terrell, Frontier's contract stars, with a gold record for their recording of Up The Ladder To the Roof, in the middle of their show at the Music Hall; Bill Kennedy sponsored Frontier's Publicity Director was initiated into the prestigious Vikings, made up of prominent business leaders; Frontier Gaming Supervisor Jerry Seible kidded around with Sugar Ray Robinson, with Glenn Nelly, Managing Director of the Silver Slipper holding Robinson back; Casino Manager Harry Goodheart (middle) plays host to Otis Taylor of the Kansas City Chiefs (left), and Ollie Gates, well known restaurateur from Kansas City; Creek Tribe member Mahaley Anderson and two UNLV escorts were treated to the Wayne Newton Show (who is part Cherokee).

Please click here to see various stars seeing shows at the Frontier. They are Nancy Sinatra seeing Jimmy Durante and Abbe Lane, Phyllis Diller seeing Durante's show (show with Frontier Maitre d' Roy McNeely, and Edie Adams and her husband Marty Mills at Jack E. Leonard's show.

Effective advertising is, naturally, the aim of everyone who advertises. But the management of the Frontier was understandably surprised when it received a call from an affiliate of the State Department in Washington, D.C. in response to one of its ads.

The ad, carrying the headline "Send this ad to a Friend Cambia," made reference to the fact that the Frontier Hotel has hosted guests from "every country from A to Y." It went on to say they'd like to make it "A to Z." The ad ran in a Western edition of the Wall St. Journal.

The surprise phone call came from an official of the African-American League in Washington, saying that the Carnegie Corporation of New York was sponsoring a State Department subsidized trip around the U.S. for Miss Dinah Khonje, a producer and performer for the Zambian National Radio Network. The trip was on a Department of State Educational Travel Grant.

Since her itinerary included Los Angeles and San Francisco, the caller suggested that the Frontier Hotel might be interested in hosting Khonje for an over-night stay in Las Vegas. The Frontier was interested, and arrangements were made for Khonje to stay at the Frontier during which she was hosted at a performance of the Wayne Newton show and saw the sights of Las Vegas. Click Here for a picture of Lt. Governor Harry Reed welcoming Miss Khonje to the Frontier.

Also during 1971, Frontier decided not to use the familiar leather trimmed yellow and blue cocktail uniforms worn by the waitresses. Modeling the new uniforms were Delores D'Alessio from Las Vegas, and Margaritha Haefliger from Lucerne, Switzerland.

It was noted that both the Frontier and Silver Slipper exclude Nellis Air Force servicemen from minimum charges in their showroom.

In 1971, Music Hall showcased Edie Adams, Al Alvarez Orchestra, Tommy Amato, John Byner, Jimmy Durante, Jack Eagle, Robert Goulet Show, Phil Harris/Harry James/Kids Next Door, Eddie Jackson, George Jessel, Jackie Kahane, Abbe Lane featuring costumes by Bob Mackie, Peggy Lee, Vega Maddux, and The Wayne Newton Show, w/Jackie Kahane/Jerry Newton/Don Vincent, The Supremes, and Jerry Van Dyke. The Maitre d' was Roy McNeely.

It was reported that Robert Goulet, Carol Lawrence and their children postponed their vacation trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming in order to attend their son's school exercises in California. That delay saved their lives. The fatal commercial flight they cancelled out on was the one that collided with an army jet.

Phil Harris was not only appearing at the Frontier but had another full time job with Disney. He "starred" in such animated movies as The Aristocrats and Junglebook. Harris had to leave the Frontier to star in Disney's movie Robin Hood.

The Circle F Theatre showcased Eli Astone/Lucia Christy Show, Ray Anthony, Beverlee & Sidro w/the Sneakers, Four Amigos, Brother Love, Brothers Keep, Roy Clayborne, Loree Frazier, Leland Four, Jack E. Leonard, The Love March, Johnny Ricco, Anne Simmons, Bob Sims Trio, Frank Sinatra, Jr., and Jana Mitchel/Vaccaro/Jerry Vale. The Cabaret showcased Mariano Moreno, Dave Burton, Jan Mills, and Bob Sims.

Jerry Vale was the only lounge act that called for 20 men in his orchestra. During one of Vale's act, Robert Goulet appeared onstage in bluejeans and with broom in hand, swept his way to the opposite wing. During Vale's next song, Goulet swept his way back. When Vale sang My Love, Forgive, Goulet joined in on an offstage mike. The audience ate it up!

Toward the end of one of his shows, Frank Sinatra, Jr., was startled when four men walked out of the wings, bearing flowers that bannered a Welcome Home. The Welcome Committee were Johnnie Ray, Joe Delaney, Forrest Duke, and Jack E. Leonard. Leonard then commenced Sinatra into one of their famous exchanges of barbed wit.

The Music Hall Showroom took out an ad in the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine wishing every one happy holidays. The Maitre d' was Roy McNeely, Assistant Maitre d' was Fred Fredricks, and the Captains were Jack Beaulieu, Eddie Collins, Mike Fields, Paul Franks, Billy Kravenko, Al Monte, Tony Paduano, and Armando Perez.

In 1972 it was stated that Casino Shift Manager Johnny Dixon was also an authority on the artifacts and projectiles of men who lived in the Southwest 11,300 years ago.

The gift shop was owned by Joe Breen, Jr. His dad was the last censor the movie industry had before all the stop gaps were pulled. The Senior Breen was also the original of the (follow) "The Bouncing Ball" community theatre singalongs. Joe, Jr., was a screen producer before he and his wife moved to Vegas.

When Eddie Jackson was ill, Jimmy Durante took out an ad wishing him well. When Jimmy Durante performed on February 24, 1972, he was surprised to see Jackson in the audience with his family. The well-kept secret came as a great surprise to Durante, who responded beautifully when he spotted his partner of many years doing a face-to-face, instead of side-by-side. The show went on, part from the stage and part from the audience.

In 1972, Frontier Music Hall showcased Edie Adams, Al Alvarez Orchestra, Dave Barry, Teresa Brewer/Jack E. Leonard, Foster Brooks, Norm Crosby, Phyllis Diller, Jimmy Durante w/Sonny King/Pearce Sisters, The Establishment, Robert Goulet, Phil Harris, Gunilla Hutton, Harry James, Bob Newhart, Wayne Newton w/Dave Barry & Musical Conductor Don Vincent, Frank Sinatra, Jr., and The Supremes. The Maitre d' was Roy McNeely.

The Winners Circle showcased Billy Kay with Pam Egbert & Baby Rae, and Toni Thomas Trio. The Bar None showcased the Gus Bivona Trio.

The Cabaret showcased Mariano Moreno, and Leonard Stanley.

In early 1972, the decision was made to close the Circle "F" Lounge. Before it closed, it showcased Ray Anthony Show, Judy Bell, Billy Kay & Chapter One, and Johnny Ricco. The last show which was on March 8, 1972, featured Jack E. Leonard. To say goodbye to the lounge, some members in the audience were Jimmy Durante, Frank Fontaine, Robert Goulet, Sonny King, and Frank Sinatra, Jr.

After one of their shows, Jimmy Durante and Eddie Jackson were telling stories about the Club Durante which Jimmy owned in New York. One story overheard was about "hiring a kid who did the Charleston" back in 1924, for $35 a week. He was George Raft who eventually became one of Hollywood's most popular stars. Another story was that the Club Durante was operating during the prohibition era and was one of those "Joe sent me" clubs. One night, two fellows phoned Durante and "pleaded" with him to get past the guard. Good natured Durante said "Aw, let 'em in!" The two fellows turned out to be government agents who took one look at the liquor and "closed the joint."

It was announced that the Frontier will be opening a new lounge in June of 1972 with Billy Kay being scheduled as the very first star, but I have no further details.

Robert Goulet had been on loan to the Sands and the Frontier held a Welcome Home Party on his return. All the guests wore pseudo Goulet moustaches when the singer walked in and Goulet quickly fell to the floor laughing. At the party, the staff and management of the Frontier included General Manager Horst Frank, presented Goulet with a framed sheet of music of The Star Spangled Banner. Later on, Rich Little and Goulet did a double Goulet-voiced duet, with Little cautioning his partner to "lower the register." When Goulet mentioned his throat was a bit raw Hugo Granata threatened to throttle any doctor who dared to give him medication.

In March of 1972, people on the got a surprise when then saw Robert Goulet standing in the afternoon sunshine outside the resort in a tuxedo. It turned out Goulet was on his way to the wedding of Robyn Telfer and John Sheib at the Little Church of The West where he was giving the bride away.

Click Here to see employees during this year as well as 1969, 1970, and 1971.

The buffet during 1972 and 1973 cost $1.95 for adults and $1.50 for children under 12.

During this time Norm Crosby was performing at the Frontier when he told this story.

"I was between shows at the Frontier and I was hurrying to get next door to watch the fights at the Silver Slipper. We all used to catch the weekly fight cards there. So I'm really dashing and just as I'm about out the front door, this little old lady grabs my arm. You're wonderful she says, Can I have your autograph? Now I'm running late and wondering whether I should just bolt out the door but I thought, Hey, if this is not why I'm in the business, then what's it really for? She was a genuine fan. So I say, Do you have a pencil? No she says. Do you have paper I ask. No she says. Then how can I give you an autograph I say. Just a minute she says and turned to her friend - Mildred give me a pen and paper. I'm about to get Tony Bennett's autograph. I about fell over laughing. I signed it God Bless You, Tony Bennett, and dashed out the door."

Frontier's Gold Room hosted a surprise birthday party for Frank Sinatra, Jr. Exchanging ad libs were Phil Harris, Harry James, Sonny King, Vido Musso, and Sinatra, Jr., proved equal to the masters. Attendees were Vicki and Jack Pieper, Frank Rino, Lee Karsian, John Dadas, Sam Hogan, and Jim Mahar. Photographer Chet Kranz recorded the proceedings for Sinatra's scrapbook. The opening of gifts left Sinatra with a vast collection of toy cars, which he immediately turned over to the Variety Club for its Nursery and School for Handicapped Children. The gag was pointed at all the cars Sinatra had in the driveway of his home. After returning from an out-of-town date, Sinatra would head for the cars, even if it was four in the morning, to start each one. Frontier Catering Manager Sid Dropkin created a special decorated buffet and delicacies for the party.

At 2:30am on March 20, 1973, Jerry Vale completed the final sequences of his 26 week series filmed at the resort. Among the celebrities to appear on the show included Marty Allen, Lynn Anderson, Johnny Cash, Pat Cooper, Norm Crosby, Stu Gilliam, Robert Goulet, Harry James, Tommy Leonard, Phyllis McGuire, Al Martino, Johnny Mathis, Mills Brothers, Jim Nabors, Buck Owens, Don Rickles, Dick Roman, Frank Sinatra, Jr., O.C. Smith, and Barbra Streisand.

Also in March of 1973, the audience as well as Harry James was surprised when Walter Kane and Frontier chef Jack Pieper went on stage with a birthday cake for the star.

On June 9, 1973, Frontier hosted the wedding reception of Frontier casino executive Bill Peccole's daughter Laura.

In 1973, Frontier's Music Hall showcased Nancy Adams/The Deer Creek Do-Gooders, Al Alvarez Orchestra, Dave Barry, Foster Brooks, Jack Carter, Roy Clark, Norm Crosby, Phyllis Diller, Billy Eckstine, Bobbie Gentry, Robert Goulet, Robert Goulet/Carol Lawrence, Phil Harris/Harry James/Frank Sinatra, Jr., Sonny King, Carol Lawrence, Wayne Newton w/Musical Conductor Don Vincent, Patti Page w/Musical Director Bob Alberti, Spurlows, and Diana Trask. The Maitre d's were Roy McNelly, Fred Fredericks, and Bob Wilson

It was noted that Wayne Newton was classified as the "Frontier's fair-haired boy" as he had turn-away crowds at every performance. Singer Robert Goulet was paid $3 million by Howard Hughes for a three year contract to perform at the Desert Inn, Frontier and Sands.

When Roy Clark closed out at the Frontier, he gave the employees six and half gallons of popcorn and left with a fat contract with the Hughes Corporation.

Stars rallied when Robert Goulet had to bow out of his opening night at the Frontier on March 12, 1973. Phil Harris, Bob Newhart, Norm Crosby, Sonny King and Dick Roman stepped in so the audience wouldn't be disappointed. It was reported that Goulet was in his dressing room waiting for a doctor. A man appeared and ordered Goulet to lie down on the floor. The man twisted and snapped Goulet's neck until he was weak from the pain. After the man left, the real doctor appeared. No one had any idea who the false doctor was. At the closing of the show, Sally Struthers and Leslie Neilson were seen backstage chatting with the star.

Goulet drew a lot of laughs as he strolled through the audience, casually asking smokers their brand of cigarettes, then pitched the packs across the room to the stage. It was a lot of fun, but very few observed the serious note in Goulet's manner, as he displayed his fine pitching form. A few years before, Goulet visited the late Hal March, then hospitalized for lung cancer. The cigarette that Goulet smoked in the hospital room that day was soon discarded, so was his smoking habit.

Goulet's wife, Carol Lawrence wanted to make sure the backstage crew was strong enough to fly her moon properly so she made a huge platter of spaghetti, meat balls and sausages for them. Word spread and everyone wanted to taste the sauce. It was rumored that Goulet hired a special security guard just to keep watch over that freezer, which has been converted into a vault.

During one Goulet/Lawrence's finales, when Goulet removed his coat, he and Lawrence called for David Leland to come for it. This time, Leland took it for all its worth and he stretched the bit into a feature, with a drum roll greeting his finger that appeared eight feet off the ground slowly drifting downward to claim the coat. It appeared it was the first time in Las Vegas that a faceless finger received a round of applause from the audience.

The Winner's Circle showcased Judy Bell, J.C. Curtiss, The First Impression, The Jets, Lottie Jones/Billy Barzie Quartet, Billy Kay/Pam Egbert/Baby Rae, Billy Kay, Sonny King, The Links, Linda Lintz Show, Mercer & Palmer, Cork Proctor, Dick Roman, Sounds of Holly, Sundi & Adelaide, Johnny Vanelli/Linda Leigh, and Mickey Wayland.

Nancy Sinatra, Sr. was seen in the Winner's Circle watching Johnny Vanelli/Linda Leigh perform. There aren't many artists who sing My Way in front of the Chairman of the Board's ex-wife but Linda Leigh did, and Sinatra applauded excitedly at the end.

In the end of March/beginning of April, Artie Palmer of the Lounge act Mercer & Palmer died of a fatal heart attack at the age of 39. On top of that, the resort sustained another blow when old-time Frontier performer and Durante pal Jack E. Leonard died.

In 1974, Music Hall showcased Foster Brooks, Teresa Brewer, Roy Clark, Robert Goulet, Phil Harris, Gunila Hutton, Carol Lawrence, Jan Murray, Bob Newhart, and The Sparrows. The Maitre d' was Roy McNeely, and the Assistant Maitre d' was Fred Frederics. The Winner Circle Lounge showcased Judy Andrews Revue, Apple Jack, Sonny King, Frank Ricci, Cheryl Grainger, Dick Roman, Johnny Vanelli & Amy.

Also in 1974, Perry Lieber, General Manager of the Landmark, was transferred to General Manager of Public Relations for Howard Hughes' Nevada Corporation. Lieber also acted as consultant to the Desert Inn, Sands, Castaways, Silver Slipper, Frontier, and Landmark Hotels.

From December 1-7, 1975, Wayne Newton was recorded live for an album entitled "Summa Corporation Presents The Howard Hughes Wayne Newton Limited Edition, A Festival Week at the Frontier Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada. A part of this album cover contained a 10 page booklet with pictures of Newton's appearances as well as pictures of him with other celebrities, and at his ranch. The booklet stated:

"You can take of a man's money, but when it's all said and done, you've only taken his money. But when you take of a man's time you've taken a part of his life. I'd like to thank you for giving me a part of your life tonight." - Wayne Newton

"My Dear Wayne, This program and this week are dedicated in your honor, and they epitomize the deep affection that your associates and I have for you. As a resident of Nevada, you display an enduring, compassionate love for your community. Particularly, you have given support and strength to our youth. You are the heartbeat of show business. You have been an entertainer for 26 years and have played more than 600 week in Nevada showrooms - given more than 13,000 performances and entertained more than 6,000,000 people. You have never failed to make a scheduled appearance. You have demonstrated that you are true believer in the tradition of the theatre, 'The Show Must Go On!' You have been awarded every honor that can be bestowed upon a musical performer. In all my years in the world of show business, I have ever known a greater entertainer, a finer gentleman or a better friend than you." - Walter Kane, Director Entertainment, Summa Corporation

"Seeking excellence and perfection, it is indeed most satisfying to us in Summa Corporation to be associated with Wayne Newton. His status as a super showman is unexcelled in the world of entertainment. If there is a bigger Wayne Newton that the one you see in performance, it is Wayne bringing strength and pleasure unselfishly to the people in his private life. There are many words to describe our sentiments regarding Wayne: Pride, Gratitude, Admiration, and sincere Affection. Tonight we share with you great moments with the man who today most exemplifies entertainment at its cleanest and finest." - Summa Corporation

In 1976, Music Hall showcased Bobbie Gentry and Larry Storch. The Maitre d' was Roy McNeely, the Assistant Maitre d' was Fred Fredericks. The Winner's Circle Lounge showcased Billy Kay, and Glenn Smith.

From 1978 to 1981, Frontier had a role in various episodes of the TV show Vegas starring Robert Urich.

In 1979, Music Hall showcased Lola Falana, and Debbie Reynolds/Norm Crosby. The Winner's Circle Lounge showcased Billy Kay & the Goofers, and Glenn Smith.

In 1980, the Little Church of the West was moved to the Hacienda resort. Showcased during this year were Glen Campbell/Norm Crosby, Roy Clark, Steve Lawrence/Eydie Gorme, Barbara Mandrell/Pat Henry, Wayne Newton/Dave Barry, Juliet Prowse/Norm Crosby, Bobby Vinton/Joan Rivers, and Bobby Vinton/Pat Cooper. The Maitre d' was Bobby Miranda.

The Frontier as well as Las Vegas was in mourning when they learned that Jimmy Durante died on January 29, 1980, at Santa Monica, California of pneumonia.

In 1981, a few of the celebrities showcased in the Music Hall were Roy Clark, and Jody Miller. The Maitre d' was Bobby Miranda.

Also during this year Siegfried & Roy debuted at the Frontier's Music Hall in Beyond Belief. The Maitre d' was Bobby Miranda. Beyond Belief was the creation of Irvin & Kenneth Feld, and also starred The Hsiung Family, King Charles Troupe, Bernie Yuman, and Lynette Chappell.

This was a big year for the magic duo: Cary Grant presented the pair with The American Academy of Magical Arts' Magicians of the Year award, and they were paid visits by Liberace, Elizabeth Taylor, Merv Griffin, and Muhammad Ali.

Other significant individuals to this show were Crandall Diehl, Jerry Bilik, Don Foote, Ken Billington, William Belling, Reid Carlson, and Arnold Bramow. Diehl was the dance captain of the original Broadway production of My Fair Lady. He had since directed and/or choreographed 15 major productions of musical theatre at home and abroad. His staging credits ranged from Die Fledermaus for the Colon Opera in Bueno Aires to Hello Dolly in Tel Aviv. He had directed/choreographed Grease, Camelot, Kiss Me Kate, Show Boat, and The Sound of Music. He is also one of a trio of stager/choreographs who annual put together Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus; Bilik was the composer, conductor, musical coordinator and arranger. For 10 years he was Professor of Music at both Wayne State University and the University of Michigan. Conductor-musical director of the Jackson Michigan Symphony from 1976 - 1979, one of his many compositions Block M was voted one of the hundred greatest marches of all times. He was also musical coordinator for the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and People's Choice awards. His Trumpet Concerto, a commission from the U.S. Air Force, written especially for Doc Severinsen, was performed by the Boston Pops, Minnesota Symphony, and Atlanta Pops. He was also the musical director for Ice Follies, Holiday On Ice, and Disney's World On Ice; Foote was the costume designer. Foote had overseen a large staff of costumers working year-round in both New York and Florida on many Feld and Feld productions including Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Disney's World On Ice, Ice Follies and Holiday On Ice Combined Shows; Billington was the lighting designer and had created and executed lighting for over 35 Broadway productions including Sweeney Todd, Working, Side By Side by Sondheim, and On The Twentieth Century. He had designed the lighting for Ann-Margret, Shirley MacLaine, Juliet Prowse and was the principal lighting designer for New York City's Radio City Music Hall; Belling was the scenery designer. He had previously worked on Ice Follies and Holiday On Ice Combined Shows. He annually collaborated on design of the massive floats and scenery for each new Edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus; Carlson coordinated the scenic effects. He was director of the Theatre Arts Department at Walt Disney World, and coordinated Disney's World On Ice; Bramow was in the special projects. He joined the Ringling Bros. - Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows' staff in 1971 after his graduation from Lehigh University. He supervised the award-winning Souvenir Programs for the Feld and Feld shows.

During this year the resort advertised The Cabaret specializing in American cuisine, Branding Iron Steak House, Comstock Room, and her guest rooms within walking distance of the casino, showroom, restaurant, and creational facilities.

Beginning in October, 1982, Frontier showcased Siegfried & Roy in Beyond Belief for $22.50.

In 1983, Governor Richard Bryan congratulated Siegfried & Roy when they were named Entertainers of the Year by the Greater Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. The two were honored not only for their superior performing abilities, but for their many contributions to the Las Vegas community as well. Boxing great Muhammad Ali visited the two backstage after one of their shows. Click Here to see pictures.

It was advertised in 1983, that Producers of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Irvin and Kenneth Feld created the background for the show. The Felds also produced Holiday On Ice, and Disney's World On Ice. Also in Beyond Belief were the King Charles Troupe, and the Hsiung Family.

Siegfried & Roy's Beyond Belief was hailed by critics as one of the finest, most spectacular shows ever presented in Las Vegas." In 1999, I was told that the stage that the elephant was brought down on in Siegfried & Roy's Beyond Belief is still housed in the basement of the Frontier.

In 1983, the Music Hall showcased Wayne Newton and Jack Eagle. The Maitre d' was Roy McNelly, and the Assistant Maitre d' was Fred Fredericks. The Circle F Lounge showcased Jerry Vale, and Bobby Sims Trio.

In 1984, the Music Hall showcased Frankie Avalon. The Maitre d' was Bobby Miranda.

In 1985, the Wild Horse Lounge showcased Edwards & Wilde, The Last Band, with Smith Brothers/Sari & Stacy.

During this year the resort contained lighted two outdoor tennis courts. Hotel guests paid no fees. The general public paid $5. The hours were 8:00am to 10:0pm. Cocktails were served as the season permits. Racquet rentals were available for $5.

The Bonanza Buffet was $3.95 for breakfast, and $4.95 for lunch which included complimentary champagne. Children under 10 received a $.50 discount.

The Branding Iron Restaurant specialized in steaks, lobsters, stone crab and lamb chops. Prices ranged from $9.95 to $23.50.

The casino held eight poker tables with Jim Haddad as Manager, and a sports book with Leonard Del Genio as Manager.


Scan donated by Tony Zaffie

In 1985, 46 year old Pat Mason, an automobile salesperson from Hallandale, Florida pulled the handle on the Frontier's three-reel dollar carousel. She watched as three 7s appeared on the bottom line. The machine, which played music after every jackpot, broke into a computerized version of The Washington Post March. Her prize was $1,023,631.


John Miner & Pat Mason

Mason received $500,0000 immediately. She received $50,000 a year for the next ten years.

"I kept playing the dollar carousel because it kept paying off. I remember hitting three $100 jackpots and one $50 jackpot. When I hit the million dollar jackpot, it didn't dawn on me right away what I had done. I was hoping for the $1,000 jackpot. I wasn't even thinking in terms of $1 million. The people around me were more excited than I was." - Pat Mason

"We're very happy for Pat. It's especially gratifying for us to award this prize to one of our own hotel guests. We knew we were taking a big risk by putting a million dollar jackpot on a three-reel carousel. Most of the six-figure jackpots in Las Vegas are on four-reel carousels. But we wanted to provide an extra measure of excitement for our customers. Giving away a million dollars doesn't bother us. We've already paid back more than $151 million to our slot customers this year. This payoff shows that we're offering our customers a real chance to win." - John Miner, Frontier President

In 1988, the Wild Horse Lounge showcased Randy Anderson, Fabulous Chevelles, Joe Cool & the Rumblers, Hot Lava, Party Dolls/Randy Anderson, Ricky & the Redstreaks, Ronny & the Classics, and Smith Brothers. Ziegfried and Roy left the Frontier in June of this year.

Margaret Elardi, a past owner of the Pioneer Hotels in downtown Vegas and Laughlin, bought The Frontier from a company that was once owned by Howard Hughes. On September 21, 1991, the second lady on the Strip became a focal point for controversy when Elardi encountered problems with the unions. A 61 month strike ensued with 550 union workers. It became an eyesore of the Strip with strikers picketing and at times bothering people on the sidewalk as well as patrons of the hotel.

The property's last collective bargaining agreement was negotiated in 1984. The Frontier strike began when hotel and casino workers represented by four unions left their jobs charging the hotel had cut hourly wages, slashed hotel and welfare benefits and eliminated contributions to their pension plan. Union workers from Culinary Local 226, Bartenders Local 165, Teamsters Local 995, and Operating Engineers Local 501, walked a picket line around the clock.

In October, 1997, Wichita businessman Phil Ruffin purchased the Frontier for $167 million and agreed to a five year contract ending the strike. Ruffin's deal included an additional $3.5 million that went for the payment of wages owed to striking workers. In addition Ruffin decided to create a "New Frontier holiday" to be included in the holidays that the employees had off. This extra holiday is the day that the strike ended and is called "Labor Peace Day".

In addition to the 986-room Frontier, which sits on 26 acres near the center of the Strip, Ruffin holds an option to buy a neighboring 16.5 acres of vacant land that was once home to the Silver Slipper Casino. Ruffin, who also owns 12 Marriott hotels, a Wichita truck-dolly factory, and was buying a Wichita greyhound track, said he will spend at least $20 million to renovate the Frontier, and is considering options for the renovation and expansion of the property.

In 1999, the name was changed back to the New Frontier.

After the remodeling was completed, the New Frontier stated:

The standard guestrooms were 377 square feet and are located in both the Lanai and Frontier Towers. These rooms featured oversized closets with mirrored closet doors, new remote control television, selection of 28 television stations, pay for view movies, and King size or two double beds. The Deluxe Atriums are 600 square feet, featuring separate living room and bedroom areas, wet bars complete with mini refrigerators, full size iron and ironing boards, two remote control televisions, selection of 28 television stations, pay for view movies, in room coffee service, and king size or 2 double beds. The one and two bedroom Penthouse suites offer the ultimate in luxury. The suites are equipped with a big screen television, dining room with a formal dining table, jacuzzi tub, terry cloth robes, walk-in closets, full size iron and ironing board, and a large wet bar with refrigerator. Click here to see pictures of the rooms.

The restaurants include Phil's Angus Steak House which serves choice beef in a vintage steakhouse atmosphere. The Orchard Cafe and Buffet, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, features choices from the coffee shop menu, or a selection of buffets including daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and midnight prime rib buffet Friday and Saturday, weekend champagne brunches and a Friday night Seafood Buffet. Margarita's offers a wide selection of appetizers and entrees. Freshly made tortillas are served with salsa, bean and tomato dips. Choose from a standard size margarita to a 45-ounce Grande Margarita served in a souvenir glass or a $.99 margarita. The Frontier Deli offers coffee, assorted baked goods, deli sandwich, or a pretzel and a beer. Tin Cup located in the General Store features Starbuck's coffee products. Click here to see pictures of Phil's Angus, Orchard Cafe, and Margarita's.

Gilley's

Frontier also has Gilley's with Gilley's All Star Band which performs Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9:00pm to closing and Fridays and Saturdays 10:00pm to closing. Dinner is served from 4:00 to 10:00pm, and DJ and music videos being at 4:00pm daily. Appetizers & limited menu are served 10:00pm to 1:00 am. There is no cover charge.

Race & Sports Book

Coral

The Race & Sports Book contains a new $1 million video wall. The Sports Wall allows a patron to watch any of 20 or more televised sporting events simultaneously. Individual monitors have been installed on the new "corals".

Meeting Room

The Navajo Room is the 10,000 square foot event center for the resort. It has been set up for events for up to 500 for executive boardroom meetings, banquets, theme parties, or poolside events. There is also a convention staff located inside the resort.

On January 5, 2000, it was announced that the second lady of the Strip was to close her doors forever. Ruffin announced that he is going to implode the Frontier and build a replica of San Francisco, California - a casino named City By The Bay which would've been completed in September, 2002, containing 2,500 rooms at a cost of $700 million. Ruffin had 13 other hotels and he plans to use their cash flows to support the new project. Plans for the new resort included replicas of Chinatown, the Coit Tower and Lombard Street. There will be a walk-through Chinese pagoda, on to the Golden Gate Bridge which will then go to Fisherman's Wharf with boats in the water. There will also be the Alcatraz Restaurant and a Napa Valley winery.

Since the Fashion Show Mall is next door, Ruffin plans to build a walkway between the resort and the Mall so the resort won't have to contain any retail shops. This means that all 25 acres can contain rooms and the planned 120,000 square feet for the casino.

The 900 employees now working at the New Frontier was supposedly to have dibs at the jobs in the new resort which was expecting to employ 3,000 people.

Mark Advent of Advent Communications and Entertainment who created the concept for New York-New York took legal action against Ruffin. Advent stated that he has been working with Ruffin for the past two years to create a San Francisco-themed megaresort, and copyrighted detailed plans, designs, concepts and other proprietary information with Ruffin, and Ruffin's agent Craig Dudley. Ruffin dismissed Advent's complaint stating "city themes are in the public domain."

It is sad to think that the second lady of the Strip will be no more. Even though this Frontier is actually the daughter of the original, with the original being torn down years ago, this property signifies the beginning of the Strip since the El Rancho Vegas burned to the ground in 1960. This also means that there will be more Hughes owned resorts on the Strip (with the exception of the wing of Desert Inn that Wynn preserved). A big part of the Strip's history will be gone once this fine lady closes her doors.

On February 6, 2000, I found out from Frank Wright that the Joss House is kept unassembled in the Nevada State Museum. If the funding ever becomes available, the Joss House will be reassembled for viewing.

Please click here to see the plans for the City by the Bay Casino and Resort. The plans will open in a new window.

On May 3, 2000, I learned that the New Frontier is still open and doing business. I spoke with a lady at the reservations desk who told me they are taking reservations into 2001. She said the resort is still closing but not until later on in 2001. It looks like there is a financing problem.

"We're still looking for the money at a decent price. The capital markets are very hard, and money's very pricey. We're not in any great hurry to jump off on a deal where the number don't make sense. When you borrow $800 million, the interest rates make a heck of a difference." The closing "will absolutely not be this year. It is delayed until I don't know when. The Frontier will continue to operate as is." - Phil Ruffin

Ruffin is climbing a very big mountain in that he has never developed a Strip resort from scratch before. He doesn't carry the financial credibility that Steve Wynn, Bill Bennett, and Kerk Kerkorian have created over the years.

Another problem is that Mark Advent has filed a $900 million lawsuit against Ruffin claiming Ruffin stole his idea for City by the Bay.

Ruffin estimated that it would take four months to prepare The Frontier for implosion, and another 30 months to build the new resort. The Strip won't see the resort open until late 2003 at the earliest.

In February 2001, I got a picture of that painting above the registration desk.

On September 14, 2001, Frontier observed one minute of silence at 12:00pm, in observance of the national day of remembrance in honor of the victims of the terrorist strikes in New York and Washington on September 11, 2001.

In 2001, the Main Showroom showcased Legends of Comedy, All Shook Up, Illusions & Beyond featuring David Darkstone/Will Roya, The King In Concert, Thunder from Down Under, and Ol' Blue Eyes, Memories for a Lifetime.

On May 20, 2002, Danny O'Neil died. O'Neil was the announcer for the shows at the Frontier in 1949.

In 2002, Roundtable Showroom will be showcasing Legends of Comedy; Illusions & Beyond featuring David Darkstone/Will Roya; Rock n' Roll Legends, and Thunder from Down Under. (Additional pictures of Thunder can be found on the Riviera's page.



New Frontier June 20, 1999

Click Here to see Frontier's souvenirs



Other Names On Property/Descriptions

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