In August of 1961, Mike Bonfiglio became a dealer at the Desert Inn. He soon climbed the corporate ladder and held the post of Assistant General Manager for Customer Relations.

Lori Adelson tried out the new championship tennis courts which were constructed adjacent to the golf course and golf practice range at the DI Country Club. The recently opened courts were so popular that it resulted in a full playing scheduled from 7:00am to 10:00pm daily.

DI Suite

On August 28, 1961, a farewell testimonial party was thrown for Father Richard Crowley at the Convention Center with entertainment from 10:00pm until dawn. Lou Walters and Harry A. White arranged the party, Stan Irwin and Henry Dunn were the emcees, Bill De Angelis was Stage Manager, and the musicians were provided by Musicians Protective Association, Local 369. Those who appeared at the show were Bogadadis Duo, Shecky Greene, The Dagenham Girl Pipers, The Florence and Fredrick Dancers and Mme. Baron's Can-Can Dancers from Tropicana; Arren and Broderick and Don Urban from the New Frontier; The Barry Sisters and Myron Cohen from Flamingo; The Happy Jesters and The Gimma Brothers from the Stardust; Hank Henry and The Madcaps from Silver Slipper; Ray Anthony and the Book Ends and Davis and Reese from Sahara; The Lancers and Alice Lon from Thunderbird; Arturo Romero and his violins and Eleanor Powell from Dunes; Kay Stevens and Mitzi Green from Riviera; Peter Lind Hayes from Sands; and Louis Prima and Keely Smith from Desert Inn.

In an interview Allard Roen, Manager Director of the Desert and Stardust, stated:

"If there were a tremendous volume of players, it would be different [worrying about what the casino makes]. Now when you get a big player, it's just a gamble, Our business is no different from banking. It's a percentage business." [The DI's losses of $80,000 for its annual Tournament of Champions, starring such players as Sam Snead and Arnold Palmer, are natural segments of the percentage equation." - Allard Rosen, November 1961

At the time of the interview Roen owned only 2% of the Desert Inn and 2.5% of the Stardust. He was under two Federal indictments in New York, involving alleged stock swindles totalling $13,000,000.

When Lederer was banned from the Tropicana casino, it was learned Lederer also had an interest in Ed Levinson's Fremont Hotel downtown and Levinson bought him out. The necessary $80,000 came from Levinson's lifelong friend, Sam Garfield of Detroit who in the past was fined $500 for running a gaming house in Indiana. Garfield was also a co-defendant, with Roen in the New York stock swindle indictments. Garfield also attended grammer school in Detroit with Desert Inn/Stardust boss Moe Dalitz.

During this year it was noted that Wilbur Clark owned only 17.2% of the casino and had little voice in management. A "group from Cleveland" were the major forces of the resort as well as the Stardust. When the Kefauver Committee called Clark in to testify Senator Charles Tobey of New Hampshire asked him "Before you got in bed with crooks to finish this proposition, didn't you look into these birds at all." Clark responded "Not too much. No sir."

It was noted that the management team of Moe Dalitz, Morris Kleinman and Samuel owned a collective 66% of the Desert Inn and 39.6% of the Stardust. As partners during prohibition days in Cleveland, they were indicted for operating barges smuggling liquor across Lake Erie. The case was never pursued but Kleinman, who made $931,000 in 1929, served three years for income tax invasion. The trio eventually operated large illegal gambling casinos in Ohio and Kentucky and also entered several legitimate businesses. During the Kefauver Committee hearing, Senator Kefauver asked Dalitz "To get your investments started off you did get yourself a pretty good little nest egg out of rum-running, didn't you?" Dalitz responded "Well, I didn't inherit any money, senator."

During an interview in November, 1961, Dalitz stated:

"Let's say gambling isn't moral, neither is drinking to excess. I think Las Vegas has given people lots of fun. Sure, some will get hurt. but listen, they can go to Atlantic City and get inot more danger in a crap game than here, where there's supervision."

Regarding reports of tax cheating:

"It's crazy! You know who does the most policing? We do! We've helped many a competitor financially."

When Eddie Fisher opened on May 16th, a quick look at the guest list for the after show cocktail party in the Sky Room was quite impressive. They included the William Wylers, the Walter Wangers, the Jack Bennys, Rock Hudson, Warren Cowans, the Jerry Walds, the Robert Wagners, Mrs. Eddie Cantor, Tony Curtis, and Mel Ferrer.

In 1961, Painted Desert Room showcased Tom Allison, Donn Arden Dancers, Earl Brown, Rosemary Clooney, The Crosby Brothers/Dick Shawn, Ronnie Dexter, Jack Durant, Betsy Duncan, the Dunhills, Jimmy Durante & his "Cabinet" of Eddie Jackson/Sonny King/Jack Roth/George Finley; Eddie Fisher/Eddy Samuels/Joey Forman, Ford & Hines, Paul Gilbert, Benny Goodman & his Orchestra, Carlton Hayes & his Orchestra, Frank Howren, Art Johnson, Danny Kaye w/Sammy Prager at the piano, Jerry Lester, Lloyd Lindroth Trio, The McGuire Sisters, Dave O'Hearn, Red Norvo, Patti Page, Joe Pryor, Ty Ray, Return of the Wildest starring Louis Prima & Keely Smith/Sam Butera & The Witnesses/Dick Humphreys/Tommy Roberts/Evelyn Freeman Singers/Carlton Hayes Orchestra, Henri Rose & Bobby Stevenson, Jimmy Rushing, Charlie Shavers, Dinah Shore, and Zoot Sims.

During her October tenure, Patti Page was out with a virus. Phil Ford and Mimi Hines took over and asked the Vagabonds from the Riviera and the DeCastro Sisters from the Stardust to help out.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Acapulco Boys, Dave Apollon, Charles Clark Quartet, Milt Herth Trio, Michael Kent & his Golden Strings, Lloyd Lindroth Trio, and Henri Rose/Bobby Stevenson. The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Sam Melchionne Quartet, and Chuck Travis.

In the beginning of 1962, it was announced that Stardust's John (Jake the Barber) Factor was contemplating a lawsuit against the United Hotel Corporation (The Desert Inn Group). Desert Inn saved the Stardust from going bankrupt in 1958 and Factor was claiming that the Desert Inn spent too much to insure its success. Desert Inn was trying to sell their property interest on a sale-leaseback deal. Factor was complaining that there was no security to protect his Stardust interest. I can find no evidence that the lawsuit was ever actually filed.

Also during this year Wilbur Clark gave an interview where he stated that he makes his biggest money on his real estate investments, and not from his famous casino. Clark owned several apartment buildings and was in the process of erecting a large professional building adjoining the Strip.

For the first time, Desert Inn's Tournament of Champions was aired on NBC in "living color".

Arnold Palmer won the 1962 Tournament of Champions beating Billy Casper, Jr., by one stroke with a 72-hole card of 276.

The final of this Tournament was Arnold Palmer with 276 for $11,000, Bill Casper, Jr., with 277 for $5,800, Earl Stewart, Jr., with 279 for $3,800, Doug Sanders with 280 for $3,300, Jay Hebert 283 for $2,900, Eric Monte with 284 for $2,500, Gay Brewer, and Phil Rodgers with 285 for $2,125 each, Gene Littler with 287 for $1,850, Doug Ford with 288 for $1,650, Don January with 288 for $1,650, Butch Baird Jacky Cupit and Jack Fleck with 289 for $1,416 each, Sam Snead Bruce Crampton and Joe Campbell with 290 for $1,250 each, Dave Hill and Tommy Jacobs with 291 for $1,125 each, Billy Maxwell with 293 for $1,050, George Knudson Dave Marr and Mike Souchak with 294 for $1,000 each, Cary Middlecoff with 295 for $1,000, Jerry Barber with 297 for $1,000, Bo Wininger with 299 for $1,000, Bob McCallister with 300 for $1,000, and Bobby Nichols with 303 for $1,000.

During the 1962 Tournament of Champions, Ann-Margret/Bob Hope performing for the crowd, Ann-Margret with 3rd Place finisher Earl Stewart, Jr., and Jack Fleck, who tied for 12th place, Bob Hope putting with a twisted walking stick, and Mr. and Mrs. Bo Wininger and Keely Smith staging an impromptu "twist" at the pre-tournament cocktail party.

At the post-tournament party, Bill Pierce, Mr. & Mrs. Al Garcia, Mrs. Wilbur Clark (Toni), and Mrs. Pierce posed for a picture.

Arnold Palmer, Bobby Nichols, Bill Casper, Jr., and Johnny Pott qualified for the 1963 Tournament of Champions.

During this year, the charges for the golf course were: $10 green fees, $4 for 18 hole caddie fees ($2.50 for 9 holes), $8 for electric carts for 18 holes ($4 for 9 holes), $1 for rental shoes, $2 for rental clubs, and lessons were give for $5 per half hour. The driving range was opened 7:00am to dark.

In 1962, Painted Desert Room showcased Donn Arden Dancers, Jack Benny/Jane Morgan/Half Brothers/Beverly Hillbillies, Rosemary Clooney, Jack Durant, Eddie Fisher, Gala Holiday Revue, Morty Gunty, Phil Harris/The Kane Triplets/Dick Humphreys & Dancers/Jack Pepper/Donn Arden Dancers/Carlton Hayes & Orchestra, Danny Kaye, Jerry Lester, McGuire Sisters, The Louis Prima Show 'Twistin' at the Mardi Gras' w/Sam Butgera/The Witnesses/Dick Humphreys/Nica Ventura/cast of 50, and Andy Williams/Jackie Mason.

Lady Luck Lounge showcased Acapulco Boys, Dave Apollon & his Music, Frankie Carle, Clark Four, Milt Herth, Michael Kent & his Golden Strings, Les Femmes, Alvino Rey, Henri Rose/Bobby Seenson, and The Three Suns.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Clark Four, and Sam Melchionne Quartet.

Desert Inn added a nine-story St. Andrew Tower in 1963, designed by New York architect William Tabler which was part of a major remodeling of public spaces, restaurant and showrooms. The tower stood directly north of the casino, replacing the original room wings designed by Wayne McAllister.

The cloud and cactus sign that had topped the Sky Room was hoisted to the top of the new tower.

In Memory of Scott Robins

In 1963, Oakmoore Country Club of Stockton, California was given title to the $26,000 cup for one year with each member receiving a gold miniature of the cup in the First Annual Gold cup Matches. In the picture are (left of cup) Lou Hirschorn, District Director, (right of cup) Stan Moore, Team Captain, (far right) Tournament Director Allard Rosen, Howard Williams, Al Nelson, Vince Erardi, Earl Raffety, Jack Nichols, Harry Oranges, Lee Wolters, Charles Miloslavich, and Gene Gabbard.

The ten man amateur squad scored 1,000 for the 72 hole event, the first 36 being played at the Stardust Golf Club, and the final two rounds of 18 holes each at the Desert Inn. A huge outdoor barbecue and dance was staged for the Gold Cuppers and their wives with entertainment during the course of the evening being provided in a specially constructed gold cup stage by Danny Kaye, Phil Harris, Kim Sisters, The Collins Kids, Dick Albers, and The Nitwits. Music for dancing was presented by Sam Melchionne and Murray Arnold.

Donated by Kelan Meis

The competing teams consisted of Columbine Country Club - Denver, CO; Cherry Hills Country Club, Denver, CO; Diamond Oaks Country Club, Fort Worth, TX; Indian Wells Country Club, Palm Springs, CA; Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club, OK; Amarillo Country Club, TX; Calgary Fold & Country Club, Alberta, Canada; Wilshire Country Club, L.A., CA; San Diego Country Club, CA; Riviera Country Club, L.A., CA; and Inglewood Country Club, Seattle, WA.

During this year, Leonard Brose was pictured using the tennis courts at the Desert Inn. Brose was the 1953 and 1961 Michigan State Tennis Champion, four-time Detroit City Champion, and one of the top-ranking players in the Western Lawn Tennis Association Section.

In 1963, Painted Desert Room showcased the Kurt Anden & Friends, Donn Arden Dancers, Billy Carey, The Dunhills, Jimmy Durante, Eddie Fisher, Ford & Hines, Joey Forman, Phil Harris Show featuring The Jubilee Four/Sam Melchionne Quartet, Valario Hamaoto, Carlton Hayes Orchestra, Danny Kaye w/Sammy Prager at piano/Sidney Kaye at drums, Lobato Dancers, Johnny Mann Singers, McGuire Sisters, Mary Miller, Jack Pepper, Dick Shawn/Kim Sisters, and Helen Traubel.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Dave Apollon & his Music, Balladeers, Ben Blue, Los Churumbeles De Espana, Frankie Fanelli Shows, Michael Kent & His Golden Strings, The Latinaires, Ted Lewis, The Lilting Strings, Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians, Mafalda Trio, Peterson-Baker, Johnny Puleo & His Harmonica Gang, The Silver Strings, and Society in Music.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Sam Melchionne, The Starlighters, Bobby Stevenson, and Violins of Mexico.

During this year the Painted Desert Room changed its name to the Crystal Room.

In 1964, the resort's 100 rooms and suites were expressed in an eggcrate pattern of balconies and windows on east and west facades. In the middle of the Desert Inn's expansion, founder Wilbur Clark sold his interest to Moe Dalitz, Morris Kleinman and their associates.

In 1964, Desert Inn advertised that the Desert Inn Country Club was part of the 272 acre layout at the largest and most complete resort in Nevada. The Country Club was open around the clock, twelve months of the year. She also advertised that patrons could buy their shoes at Nettleton Shoes store located inside the resort.

The Crystal Room showcased Hello America! featuring Davis & Reese with Fantasio, Dick Weston, The Jungs, Victor Julian, Jim Cuny, & Marion; Ann Howard, Gloria Krieger, Kiki Paige, Marcia Gilford, Kay Brown, Warren Hays, Dick Hafner, Folliott Charlton, Dick Moll, Forrest and Marika, Carlton Hayes Orchestra, and a cast of 80. The show was produced by Frank Sennes and staged and directed by Donn Arden. By October, the show was such a big hit that they added a third 2:00am show. The other two shows were at 8:00pm, and midnight. Also showcased was Phil Harris/Rola & Rolan/Jubilee Four/Donn Arden Dancers/Caterina Valente/Carlton Hayes & Orchestra w/Buddy Cole conducting.

Lady Luck Lounge showcased Don Cherry, Davis & Reese Revue/The Cousins/Carol Lee, Jan Garber & His Orchestra, Ted Lewis, Singing Strings, Lilting Strings, Sandu Scott & her Scotties, Tokyo Happy Coats, Mafalda Trio, Peterson-Baker, and The Cousins. During one of The Cousins shows, the audience was surprised when Davis & Reese jumped on stage and joined the act for some laughs.

Jan Garber was glowing over his 70th birthday surprise party hosted by the hotel, with an hilarious onstage presentation of a cake and kidding by Hello America! headliners, Davis & Reese.

It was noted that the Asian girls in Tokyo Happy Coats spoke no English having learned the lyrics of the songs phonetically. Bob Lloyd who was the conductor, arranger, and all around musical tutor for the ladies, using little more than sign language, managed to teach three of the girls to play trombones.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold and Bill Kane.

Jan Garber and his orchestra gave 1964/1965 New Year's Eve revelers in the Lady Luck Lounge a bonus, when they became part of his annual CBS radio broadcast across the nation, from 11:00-11:30pm (his tenth time in the past 12 years.)

From January to March of 1965, the Sky Room was closed for extensive remodeling. Designed to accommodate a greater number of late evening dance couples, a larger dance floor was installed. The Sky Room also added a newly designed circular bar as well as a piano bar around a concert grand, with a greatly increased seating capacity. Two separate rooms for private parties were also part of the remodeling. Designed by Jac Lessman, the new Sky Room was open 9:00pm to 5:00am seven days a week. A disco, under the direction of George Pierce, alternated with Murray Arnold.

Also in March of 1965, Chuck Kellogg was named the new Tennis Pro at the resort. A native of San Diego, Kellogg had been active in tennis instruction for almost 25 years in his home town, as well as Coronado, Del Mar and Las Vegas. He was also a champion oarsman, archer, and swimmer. Kellogg was married to the former Marjorie Billings, whose father was a scout for the old Brooklyn Dodgers.

In March of 1965, the Trans-Mississippi Senior Gold Tournament took place. Pictured are winners Joe Dyer, Denver; Morry Zenoff, Las Vegas; John Camman, La Jolla; Dr. J.L. Swigert, Denver; Glen Brawner, Nebraska City; W.R. Croxton, Mesa.

Desert Inn hosted the $75,000 13th Tournament of Champions with 28 participants April 29-May 2, 1965. Click Here to see the competitors. Inasmuch as certified golf stars as Tommy Bolt, Mike Souchak, Bob Rosburg, Doug Sanders, Art Wall, PGA champ Bobby Nichols, Paul Harney, Dr. Cary Middlecoff and Desert Inn Director of Sports Bo Wininger managed - or was it mismanaged - to shoot more than 300 for 72 holes in previous tournaments (Arnold Palmer tried but fell short at 296), the course was toughened for this tournament.

"No. 4: We've cut back the tee 18 yards, making the hole play 195 yards. We've also stretched out the left-hand bunker to make it a factor; No. 5: We've backed up the tee 32 yards so this par-5 hole plays 586 yards. Now they've got to hit two big woods to get home; No. 8: Cut back tee 29 yards so hole plays 453 yards. This extra yardage brings the lake and out of bounds into play. Now even the big hitters won't carry the water. They'll have to be pretty careful, but it's a good driving hole; The front 9 holes will play 3677 yards now against 3598 yards; No. 11: We've put in a bunker about 30 feet short of the green and extended it so it protects about one-third of the green. Now the boys can't bounce in those long iron shots or get away free if they happen to hit the shot a little fat; No. 15: Backed up tee 23 yards to bring the lake on right side into play. We've transplanted several elms and pines - about 40 feet high - roughly 225 yards from the tee. They can't carry the trees so they won't aim down the left side of the fairway. Now they'll have to hit a draw shot off the tee.; No. 16: We've stretched it to 177 yards and elevated the tee so now the boys can see the beauty of the hole, not to mention all the trouble like traps and water hazards; No. 18: Backed up tee 20 yards making the hole play 452 yards. We've put in two traps on the left about 260 yards from the tee and transplanted eight big elm and pine trees on the right side. Now the fellas can't take a short cut down the right side of the 9th fairway and they're not about to try carrying the traps on the left. They'll really have to thread this drive.

Despite its toughness, I think the course is a fair test. After all, this is a tournament for champions. The composite 12 year winning score is 277.4. Tournament record in the sensational 268, 20 under par, fashioned by Jerry Barber in 1960 in Chamber of Commerce weather." - Bo Wininger, DI Director of Sports

Glen Lakes Country Club and Brookhaven Country Club, both of Dallas, and Oakmoore Golf Club of Stockton, California became the 10th, 11th, and 12th teams to qualify for the finals of the Gold Cup Tournament played June 9-12, 1965. Pictured are: 1 - Captain Robert H. Barnett and Jack Wendling; 2 - Glen Lakes Country Club, Dr. Bill Fuqua, Fred Kadane, Max Ligon, R. Robbins, O. Erringer, Bob McGregor, John Cobb, Dr. L.E. Arnold, Herb Smith, Bill Cunningham, Dr. F.J. Altick and Dr. M. Kadesky; 3 - Oakmore Gold Club Stan Moore, and Vince Erardi.

The Queen of the Tournament for this year was Peyton Place's Barbara Parkins (who 3 years later would star in Valley of the Dolls). Click Here to see past Queens of the Tournament.

Also during this year, Johnny Beradino, Emily MacLaughlin and Hunt Powers celebrated the 2nd anniversary of the soap opera General Hospital at the Desert Inn pool, and AFL Oakland Raiders coach Al Davis and his wife was seen at the Monte Carlo Room. Click Here for pictures.

In May of 1965, the Lake Mead Yacht Club's Flotilla and official opening of the lake season was a success due in part to Hello America's Pepper Davis, Tony Reese, Dick Weston, Tony Scotti, and Tom Peters who turned out to assist and add to the festivity.

In July of 1965, Joe Glaston was appointed Director of Special Promotions for the Stardust/Desert Inn sisters. Michael Rich, former Assistant Manager of the Desert Inn and Country Club, was appointed to the newly created position of Director of Guest Relations. Simultaneously it was announced that Don McKeraghan, Chief Room Clerk, was promoted to Night Assistant Manager.

In August of 1965, Jan Garber appeared on CBS radio broadcasts from the Desert Inn Lounge. This appearance brought him fan mail from all over the United States.

Desert Inn Executive Chef Henri Pettijean decided to share a recipe he served at the resort with everyone. Here is the recipe for you to try: Monte Carlo Frozen Souffle' au Grand Marnier - Cook to hard boil, add 10 ounces of sugar and 3 ounces of water. Pour slowly over 12 yolks of eggs beaten in electric mixer to creamy consistency. Keep beating at medium speed till cool. Add a little vanilla - add one quart of whipped cream, and 2 ounces of Grand Marnier liquor. Place in freezer for 5 or 6 hours. Will make 20 portions in 5-ounce souffle' cases. (Bon appetite!)

Clark died in August 1965 of a heart attack. A massive tribute was paid to this builder of dreams by local, state and national officials, as as by those who had served him at the Desert Inn. The entire city mourned this visionary's untimely death.

Also in August of 1965, Kathy Martin of Hello America was on the cover of the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine.

During this time, Jan Garber had a CBS network radio show from the Desert Inn Lounge. Garber was glowing when Ed Sullivan showed up unexpected and appeared on the show. The lounge filled up quickly when word got out that Sullivan was in the lounge answering questions.

During this year Desert Inn showcased Hello America produced by Frank Sennes and staged/directed by Donn Arden, starring Kiki Page/Davis & Reese/Fantasio/Dick Weston/Les Aratas/Victor Julian/Miss Loni/Carlton Hayes Orchestra/Ann Howard/Marcia Gilford/Kay Brown/Warren Hays/Dick Hafner/Floffiott Charlton/Dick Moll/Art Johnson/Tony Scotti/Tom Peters/Ken Urmston/Chris Hersey/Forres & Marika. Page's San Francisco Earthquake number was one of the show stoppers.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Copes Argentine Revue which consisted of 9 dancers, 2 vocalists, and music direct from Argentina), Costa & Shaw, The Cousin, Desert Inn Strings, Escobar's Mexican Fiesta, Escobar's Latin-Afro Revue, Jan Garber Orchestra, Singing Gleasons, Barbara Heller, Happy Jesters, Ted Lewis, Mafalda Trio, Professional Backwards, The Salmas Brothers, Sandu Scott, Tokyo Happy Coats, and Yasminna. The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Jan Augus, Tony Costa-Jeanne Sheldon Quintet, and Ronnie David. The Monte Carlo showcased Macciaverna and his violin.

One of the acts in Hello America was Butterfly Ballet. Apparently, the wings (which were $165 each) were decaying at a very rapid rate. Virginia Badham and her six wardrobe girls bought 70 yards of material to make new wings. They were then sent to California to apply the proper paints and came up with outfits out-doing the original. All the bosses complimented the wardrobe department on the beautiful new costumes.

John LaBrie, George Gordon, Howard Rambicur, Rudy Kolod, and Pancho Alliati took out ads in the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine. In addition, Desert Inn and Dunes took out a joint ad. The Desert Inn side named M.B. Dalitz, Sam Tucker, Morris Kleinman, Allard Roen, Jack Donnelley, Ruby Kolod, C.J. Jones, Al Benedict, Cecil Simmons, Frank Soskin, Sam Solomon, John Licini, Claude Webb, Marty Kutzen, Nick Danolfo, Wilbur Stromberg, and Gilbert Smollin.

In 1966, Desert Inn hosted the last Tournament of Champions. The purse was $75,000. Arnold Palmer took top honors with a score of 283. The host pro was Bob Winninger.

At a date unknown, Desert Inn created a monument dedicated to the champions of golf. This monument named the champions from 1953 to 1966.

On January 2, 1966, Jan Garber released his album "On Stage - Jan Garber and His Orchestra", which was recorded live at the Desert Inn (at the age of seven, Jan Garber was the Major Leagues' first official bat boy with the Philadelphia A's).

On February 27, 1966, Desert Inn's Crystal Room introduced its new show Hello America starring Dave Barry with Kiki Paige/Victor Julian/Max & Cherie/Chrys Holt/Lily Yokoi, which was produced by Frank Sennes, and staged and directed by Donn Arden. Carlton Hayes Orchestra accompanied the show.

In June of 1966, Tina Louise (Gilligan's Island) and Les Crane spent their honeymoon at the resort. Also in June, employee Ruby Kolod was the first recipient of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Flag Day Citation for his dedication to American patriotism.

In November of 1966, it was noted that Dean Martin's Did A Tear Fall was the original composition of the Sky Room's Murray Arnold.

In 1966, Desert Inn's Crystal Room showcased Jimmy Durante, Eddie Jackson, Sonny King, Phil Harris, Hello America - All New Second Editions starring Dave Barry/Kiki Paige/Victor Julian/Max & Cherie/Chrys Holt/Lily Yokoi/Hollywood Tune Stars/cast of 60/Kim Sisters/Carlton Hayes Orchestra. It also presented the show Granada Ballet starring Estrellita & Raul/Bach Yen; and Hello America - All New Second Edition, starring Dave Barry/Kiki Paige/Victor Julian/Max & Cherie/Chrys Holt/Lily Yokoi/Hollywood Stunt Stars/cast of 60/Carlton Hayes Orchestra.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Frankie Carle with Donna Leah, Tony Costa, Jody's Quintet, and Jeanne Shelden Quintet.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Pepper Davis & Tony Reese, Desert Inn Strings, Jan Garber and his Orchestra, Happy Jesters, Hello-Baloo Revue w/Goldie Hawn (before Rowan & Martin), Mafalda Trio, Mariachi Los Camperos, Salmas Brothers Revue, and Tokyo Happy Coats. The Monte Carlo Room showcased violinist Joseph Macchiaverna. The Desert Inn also introduced its all new Skillet Room which was open 11:30pm to 7:00am.

Dave Barry was besieged for autographs when the younger set discovered he was the voice of the Hamm's Beer Bear.

In December 1966, holiday wishes were given as follows:

The fame of the Desert Inn came from one of its guests and subsequent owners, Howard Hughes. The Desert Inn's St. Andrew Tower's ninth-floor suites were similar in floor plan to those on lower levels, but were more spacious and more luxuriously furnished. Hughes' private quarters - living room, bedroom, bath, and dressing room were on the hotel's east side, overlooking the golf course and the large oval swimming pool. Hughes' aides all lived on the eighth floor. These two floors were considered the best two floors of the entire resort.

After Hughes had been staying at the hotel for more than a month, in December, 1966, he was asked to leave to accommodate the "high rollers" who were expected to visit for the holidays. Hughes hated to pull up stakes so he went into negotiations to buy the Desert Inn. In March of 1967, Hughes paid $6.25 million in cash and assumed outstanding liabilities of $7 million to own the Desert Inn. April 1, 1967, became the day Hughes started taking control of the Strip with the purchase of the Desert Inn becoming final. The Desert Inn was technically owned by the Hughes Tool Company which would later evolve into the Summa Corporation.

Howard Hughes

People wondered how Hughes came and went from the Desert Inn. One theory was that there was an elevator to the basement from which a narrow stairway led to the parking lot. Posted alongside the walkway near this hole-in-the-ground entrance was a large sign which read: "All Unauthorized Persons Keep Out".

After Moe Dalitz moved, out 54 year old Walter Fitzpatrick took over his office/desk. Fitzpatrick was a former IRS agent. Part of his 1969 interview was as follows:

Q: Do you use shills?

A: Just in baccarat, it keeps the game a little more active.

Q: So when I walk by a blackjack table and there's a girl in a low-cut dress with her skirt pulled up to her navel, alone, playing head-to-head with a dealer, she's actually a customer?

A: Most of them are. But we give people a square deal. This is a family operation. Now take our Pzazz! 68 show - not one bare bosom in it. It's a very clean show and parents bring their children.

During this time Jack Walsh was Executive Director of the resort. Walsh attended the West Liberty Grade School and High School in Columbus, Ohio, and then Ohio State University. He was Vice President and General Manager of the Mayflower Hotel in Akron, Ohio. Walsh opened the New Yorker Hotel in 1930 for Ralph Hitz. In fact, he opened all of Hitz' hotels including those in Nicollet and Minneapolis. He later was the co-owner of the Bel Air in Los Angeles.

Walsh came to Vegas in 1942 handling all the housing and feeding at Basic Magnesium, which amounted to 60,000 meals a day. He also managed the El Rancho Las Vegas. In 1946, he moved to the Nevada Biltmore, and in 1947, was General Manager of the Flamingo. In 1951, he managed the Arrowhead Springs Hotel and in 1957, moved to the Desert Inn as Executive Director with Hughes keeping him on after he bought the resort. Walsh belonged to the Variety Club, Kiwanis, Masons, Elks, Nevada Athletic Commission, and was a fellow Kentucky Colonel and Secretary of the Nevada Chapter of the organization.

Walsh also won the Crosby Golf Tournament in 1954, and finished second with Arnold Palmer in the L.A. Open. Walsh's was a widower as his wife passed away on August 31, 1963.

In 1967, Desert Inn's Crystal Room continued showcasing Hello America starring Dave Barry/Kiki Paige/Victor Julian/Max & Cherie/Chrys Holt/Lily Yokoi/Hollywood Tune Stars/Carlton Hayes Orchestra/a cast of 60 until March. When the show closed, it had entertained over a million people which equaled a two-year run on Broadway.

After that, it showcased Edie Adams, Arirang Dance Company, Jimmy Durante/Eddie Jackson/Sonny King, Luisa Triana Flamenco Company, The Danny Kaye Show with Bob Alberti, Rosemary Clooney, Sidney Kaye & Earl Brown Singers, McGuire Sisters, Bob Newhart, The Step Brothers, and Andy Williams. It was noted during one of the shows that Jimmy Durante had been entertaining people for 57 years. Out of the 57 years, Eddie Jackson had been his partner for 51 years. On September 28, 1967, Desert Inn switched its shows and began showcasing Donn Arden's Pzazz! '68 starring The Agostinos/Snyder Brothers/Rudy Cardenas/The Fredianis/Carlton Hayes Orchestra/Bambi McCormick/Shirley Kirke/Jeremy Vernon. Four tons of mirrors were used in the Astaire segment of the show. The smoke caused by the Boomtown Today scene made is necessary to have a crew of six clean and polish the image-reflectors between shows. A publicity picture of Pzazz showgirl Jean Carroll was taken on the grounds of the Desert Inn.

In Danny Kaye's first night of his tenure he received a standing ovation. Then the audience's standing ovation stood on their chairs when he introduced Cary Grant, Dyan Cannon and Barbara Rush who were in the audience.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Jody's Quintet, and Bob Voss Trio. During one show Arnold opined that England sent the U.S. Twiggy to "prepare us for the devaluation of the pound."

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Joe Cavalier & Girls A La Mod, Davis & Reese, Desert Inn Strings, Barbara Foy, Happy Jesters, Hip Parade Revue, Royal Showband from Dublin, Jacob Sisters, Jim & Pati & The Sparklers, Lady Luck Follies, Derek Joys' Show, Newcomers, Maggie Peterson & Bruce Davis Quintet, Lulu Porter & The George Rock Band, Anita Ray & Diane Hall, Salmas Brothers, The Serenders, Sunshine & Lollypop Revue, and Tokyo Happy Coats.

The Monte Carlo Room showcased violinist Joseph Macchiaverna. Desert Inn also had a limited run of Bob Sadoff's Tom Jones musical in the Lady Luck Lounge. Lady Luck Lounge also showcased Molly Bee, Davis & Reese, Happy Jesters, Lady Luck Follies, Jim & Pati & The Sparklers, Capp & Carle, Anita Ray & Diane Hall, Gary Marshall, George Rock, Tokyo Happy Coats, Cover Over Here Revue, Los Hermanos Silva, and Serenaders. During one show, Murray Arnold said he disagreed with fashion experts who said that ladies wouldn't go for the mini skirts. Arnold thought "mini skirts were here to stay". He was also quoted as saying he knew a man who was so henpecked, he didn't know he had laryngitis for a year. On November 18, 1967, Arnold said he knew it was close to Christmas when he was down to his last 25 bottles of after shave lotion.

On November 17, 1967, Desert Inn Golf Course was the host for the Thanks for Giving Tournament. This Tournament was arranged by Flamingo Showroom Captain De Angelo and it was strictly a black-tie affair (only one ever held), accepting only maitre d's and Captains. Approximately 60 players teed off and all donations of turkeys, food-stuffs and other prizes given by merchants were turned over to welfare agencies.

In February of 1968, Desert Inn Lounge unveiled the Tom Jones Cocktail in honor of the Tom Jones Revue. The cocktail consisted of 1oz Calvert Gin, 1oz of apricot liqueur, 1oz orange juice, and 2 dashes of Anisette. (Now after reading this how many of you are going to try this recipe?)

In October of 1968, the resort advertised 600 fine rooms and suites, health club, barber and beauty shops and Apparel shops. Carl Williams was the manager.

The Executive Chef during this time was Henri Petitjean who served in this capacity with but on short interruption since 1954. Born in Auxerre, France, Petitjean came from a restaurant family and was early schooled by his father who headed the cuisine of his own restaurant. At 15, he was apprenticed to a pastry shop in Versailles. Later he worked in the kitchens of the Ritz Hotel in Paris and towards the end of WWI he was called into the French Navy and served as chef in ships' kitchens for three years. After his service, he joined the staff of the Hotel Crillon and served as chef de partie. In 1924, he emigrated to Canada and in Montreal worked at the Mount Royal and Windsor Hotels, as well as the Laval Le Lac Golf Club. Vancouver was his next home where he worked as chef de partie in the Empress Hotel until he became head chef on board a ship cruising between Alaska, California and Mexico. In 1950 he went to Vegas as assistant chef at the Desert Inn. In 1954, he was promoted to Executive Chef. He and his wife, Marie, were married 42 years, had three children, and nine grandchildren. Petitjean's favorite recipe was Hungarian Goulash. Ingredients: 2-1/2 lbs. lean beef chuck, 2 medium sized onions, 1 size 2-1/2 can solid-pack tomatoes, 1-1/2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered, 3 tsp salt, 1 heaped tbs paprika, 1 clove garlic crushed, 1/2 pint boiling water. Cut meat into 1-1/2 inch squares and brown quickly on all sides in a heavy skillet with just sufficient fat to prevent sticking. Add 2 roughly chopped onions and let simmer four or five minutes. Stir occasionally. Add salt, paprika and crushed garlic, then stir well. Fold in canned tomatoes. Cover and cook slowly for one hour. Add potatoes and boiling water, and continue simmering the goulash, basting potatoes from time to time until gravy is reduced to 1/3 its original quantity and the meat parts easily with a fork. Serve with spaetzle or buttered noodles and a tossed salad. Serves 6. (1968 Desert Inn picture, as well as Petitjean's picture, bio, and recipe donated by Dan Kubota).

In 1968, Desert Inn's Crystal Room showcased Pzazz! '68 with dancer Bonnie Palma/Snyder Brothers/Jeremy Vernon/Rudy Cardenas/The Agostinos/Carlton Hayes Orchestra. Pzazz star Bambi McCormick entertained the Marine Corps Reserve's Toys For Tots on December 17, 1968 at the Biltmore Hotel.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased Liana Antonova, Arirang Korean Dancers, Murray Arnold, The Bawdy Musical Comedy, Carey-Garfin Four, Davis & Reese, Jim & Pati & The Sparklers, Jody's Quintet and Sam Carlisi, Davis & Reese, Tom Jones Revue with Happy Jesters, Vido Musso with Bonnie Ventura, Promises, Roberta Sherwood, Tokyo Happy Coats, and the Desert Inn Strings.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Ted Rio Rito, Vido Musso, Orrin Tucker, and Jody's Quintet.

In January of 1969, Desert Inn showcased Many Happy Returns after the show initially premiered in Seattle and Portland. This show starred John Raitt/Pat Carroll/John Carroll/Paul Gilbert/Linda Michele/Victor Buono. Towards the end of the show's run, as a practical joke, Circus Circus brought Norbu, the Human Gorilla, to the show where he broke up the cast with his antics while sitting in the audience.

Linda Michele posed in the gown especially designed for her role in Many Happy Returns. The new "Snoopy" style, which bridged the gap between micro-mini and full length formal, was created by Betty Kreisel of Beverly Hills.

The cast of Many Happy Returns was personally elated over Jeanne Kallan's good fortune in winning the thousand silver dollars at the annual Mardi Gras. Kallan was Pat Carroll's understudy in the show.

Many Happy Returns star Paul Gilbert presented gold door plaques to his fellow principals. The topliners retained the name plates as sourvenirs after the show closed.

In February of 1969, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Warren Beatty, while staying at Caesars, were at the Desert Inn shooting scenes for the movie The Only Game In Town. In the movie Taylor played a Pzazz girl.

The staff of the Cactus Room were amazed when none of the patrons recognized the attractive couple who was having lunch there. The staff knew the couple of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

In May of 1969, Hughes sent George Stokes a gold watch when the 84 year old retired as Chief of Maintenance. Stokes came to Vegas in 1947, after serving as Supervisor of Safety and Sanitation in the Commissary Division of Lockheed Aircraft in Burbank, CA. From 1940 to 1947, Stokes advised the Hughes Commissaries and 21 outdoor Canteens served an average 77,000 meals daily. Stokes worked in vaudeville in 1906, and was also with the original Barnum & Baily Circus as a clown. His personally wrote and produced Dugout Follies was chosen by General Pershing for a tour of occupied German.

In 1969, Crystal Room presented Pzazz '70, produced by Frank Sennes, staged, created and directed by Donn Arden, and starring Sheila Sparr/Jacqueline Douguet/Nick Navarro/Bernard Charey/Michelle Monay/Kiki Paige/Bobbi Hill/Jeanne Costa/Penny Pryor/Lillian D'Honeau/Gary Sneed/Jim Weiss/Gordon Cornish/Loretta St. John/Carlton Hayes Orchestra. Pzazz' costumes were designed by Bill Campbell, and the music was arranged by Jim Harbert. Playing with Pzazz '70 was All that Jazz, Baby. Also showcased during this year were Teresa Brewer, Four Step Brothers, Carlton Hayes Orchestra, Jerry Lewis, Bob Newhart, Ronnie Schell, Connie Stevens Show with Jim Webb. Seen in the audience of Stevens' show was Bonanza star Dan Blocker.

Kiki Paige was born on December 6th in Calcutta, India. Her parents were show folks and she was literally born on the stage. Paige had spent 18 years with the USO overseas, held citations galore, including the rank of Lt. Col. for the Military and had been given a lifetime membership in the VFW. She had received a letter from President Nixon commending her for her U.S.O. entertainment tours in the Vietnam area and for her unending concern for the servicemen. She made four trps to Vietnam and was nearly blown to bits.

During his tenure, Jerry Lewis was seen being chauffeured to Garwood Van's Musicland in his Rolls Royce, to make some purchases and reminisce with the proprietor. Both were natives of Newark, New Jersey. When Lewis pulled away from the curb, he was driving, with his dog next to him on the front seat. In the back were three of Lewis' entourage, including the chauffeur.

The Sky Room showcased Murray Arnold, Ted Frio Rito, Jody's Quintet, and Connie Kay.

The Lady Luck Lounge showcased the Action Faction, Ray Anthony Revue w/Diane Varga/Dave Leonard, The Johnnie Bachemin Show featuring Dick Weston, Desert Inn Strings, Jan Garber, Paul Gilbert, the musical Tom Jones Revue w/special guest star Roberta Sherwood, Happy Jesters, Laff Out! starring Dick Weston/The Jolly Jovers/Living Dolls/Gary Marshall, Vido Musso w/Judy Richards & Bonnie Ventura, The New Ideas, The New Kick, Jan Garber, the musical Once Upon a Mattress, Ken Tones, Visconti Italian Showband, and Willie & Alvie.

In the 1969 Holiday issue of Fabulous Las Vegas magazine, Cecil Simmons and Desert Inn Casino Staff, the management and staff of the Desert Inn, and Pancho L. Alliati took out ads wishing their patrons/fans happy holidays. In addition, Donn Arden took out an ad wishing the Desert Inn and Stardust with happy holidays.

Also in this issue Kiki Paige took two full page ads showing her appreciation which can be found on the Maps & Pictures section of this site. This very special letter stated:

To All a Healthy Holiday. To My Desert Inn Loves ...
I want to thank the Hughes-Nevada Corporation for a wonderful engagement. Mr. Howard Hughes, Mr. Robert Maheu, Mr. Water Fitzpatrick, Mr. Frank Sennes, Mr. Donn Arden.
Mr. Cecil Simmons and his fine casino staff . . . Mr. Frank Soskin . . . Mr. Russell Scott . . . The sweet casino cage people . . . Lounge staff - sweet Eddie, cocktail girls, bartenders . . . Wonderful hotel staff from "Pappy" Jack Walsh and Harry Williams on . . . The Accounting Dept. . . . PBX Operators . . . Car Hops . . . Bellman . . . Always-with-a-smile Security . . . Gift Shop ladies . . . Shapely cigarette girls . . . Precious people in the Cactus Room . . . Elegant Monte Carlo Room with Danny's mixes and magic . . . P.R. Dept. with Max Wolkoff, Al Guzman, Caroline . . . Country Club - Willow's loveliness and the fine staff . . . The sweet, trying to be gruff starter of the Greens - Tennis clan and shops of each . . . Crystal Room - Pancho and his great crew - the waitresses I've always loved and the previous bus boys . . . Finally, my lovable crew, headed by Manager Esper Esau - stage - booth - sound - I love ya . . . Mr. Carlton Hayes with the Swingies I most adore . . . Last on the list - only because they are great enough to hold up the above . . . "Pzazz '70" . . . I shall miss you all. I love you. Merry Christmas, Kiki

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