On May 27, 1965, former sports editor Bruce Banke became assistant to Publicity Director Tony Atchley.

It was reported that Judy Garland was to perform at the resort on June 15, 1965.

"Now we can only speculate on the excitement that will reign when Judy Garland opens at the T'Bird, June 15. In spite of reports that she has been ill, Judy is still expected to make that curtain. If necessary, Stan Irwin will be hovering nearby to put his hypnosis into effect if Judy should require any suggestive influence of relaxing." - Jack Cortez, June 12, 1965.

I asked Stan Irwin in June of 2003 what this paragraph meant. He stated that he was/is a hypnotist and in order to have Garland perform, he did indeed hypnotised her. He asked Judy for a favorite and her favorite toy was an Irish Mail. Irish Mail became the "key words" for her.

Irish Mail

"I recall how influential Stan Irwin was getting me to play at the Sahara as well as moving me, in 1965, from the lounge of the Thunderbird into the main room to be the opening act for Judy Garland's final two weeks engagement in Las Vegas.

Judy Garland's last appearance in Las Vegas was at the main room at the Thunderbird in 1965. I was headlining the afternoon's succesfull review "Jerry Schafer's Girl a La Carte" in the lounge and was summoned to open with Judy. I did not want to do it. I was the big fish in the little pound and did not wish to be a little one in the ocean.... it was a great smash. I had to work 23 minutes to get an standing ovation, Judy got hers even before she walked on stage. As soon as her fans heard the overture somewhere over the rainbow they were standing and applauding. I'll never forget, this guy that came to me after one of the shows and said he wanted to shake my hand. I was thrilled until he told me he wanted to shake my hands because he knew that somewhere along the line my hands had touched Judy.... Now that is a fan for you." - Nelson Sardelli, October 12, 2002

It was noted that each Garland performance was packed with a solid 900 people, room maximum.

In August of 1965, the Theatre Restaurant became the Continental Theatre. The old Tonopah Room overhead was subdivided into dressing rooms, and the stage itself was deepened into the room everyone had to use up until then. They provided space for R.V. Brand and his Orchestra to set up to the left of the stage.

Also in August of 1965, lunchers in the showroom were treated to a Robert Goulet rehearsal. Goulet stood on the stage and ran through the full range of his voice. Everyone laughed when a broom suddenly appeared from the orchestra pit and started banging on the stage. Norm Crosby's head popped into view and he called out, "Hey, keep it down up there. I'm trying to get some sleep."

Also during this month, it was reported that the enormous Thunderbird sign used enough electricity to light up 300 average homes.

In September of 1965, Thunderbird launched ins 24 hour entertainment policy, with seven different shows rounding the clock in the Continental Theatre. She also installed a 10'x12' TV screen in its Concert Theatre, showing all sporting events on the weekends.

Floyd Patterson arrived at the Thunderbird on November 20, and began training for his November 22nd title bout with Cassius Clay. (Clay was training at the Stardust).

Thunderbird celebrated her Christmas party on December 19, 1965. Between 600 and 700 children of the employees received a bulging stocking and a toy.

In 1965, Theatre Restaurant showcased The 1965 Edition of Ziegfeld Follies starring Sue Carson/Jerry Antes/Nicholas Brothers/Curtiss & Tracy/The Milestones/Ricardo Lemus/Nick Navarro/Joyce Roberts. This show by produced by Monte Proser, and choreographed by Dick Humphrey. At the end of the 1965, it showcased C'est La Femme starring Anni Anderson/R.V. Brand Orchestra. Also showcased were Steve Allen/Jayne Meadows, Jack Benny/Frankie Avalon/production number by Jerry Schafer, Pat Boone, Norm Crosby, Judy Garland, Robert Goulet, Nat Brandwynne Orchestra, Polly Bergen/Luther Henderson, Gil & Nikki, Girls a la Carte, Hollywood '66 a-Go-Go, Kings IV, and The Treniers.

The Thunderbird Lounge showcased Belle Barth, Big Beats, Russ Cantor & his Stringettes, Norm Crosby, Billy Eckstine, Big Beats, Brothers Castro, Gene Detroy & Marquis Chimps, Fabulous Echoes, Gaylord & Holiday, Girls a la Carte w/Dick Hafner/Nelson Sardelli/Johnny Aladdin/Marlene Pendleton/Nelson Sardelli/Allen Conroy/R.V. Brand Orchestra, Glorious Greeks, The Hinanos, Kings IV, Frank Moore, Power House IV, Sandler & Young, Nelson Sardelli, Thunder-Tusi, and The Treniers. The afternoon attraction was Speaking of Girls with Gary Meator/Hank Oser/Chuck Gabriele/Jose Antonion Dancers/R.V. Brand Orchestra. It during this year that Thunderbird began their afternoon "girlie" shows with Speaking of Girls.

Continental Theatre which showcased C'est La Femme starring Anni Anderson, Gil & Nikki, Girls a la Carte, Hollywood '66-a-Go-Go, Kings IV, Maori Hi-Five, and The Treniers.

Opening night at the Jack Benny/Frankie Avalon show was attended by many stars. Some included Polly Bergen and husband Freddie Fields, NBC's Nancy Dickerson, Jack Lemmon and his Felicia Farr, George Burns, Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, Mrs. Kirk Douglas, Annette Funicello, Dennis Day, Mary Livingston, designer Molly Parnis, and Dave Barry (the recorded voice of Rochester).

It was noted that Polly Bergen's opening was another star-studded event. A 92 seat Boeing 707 was chartered to fly in celebrities from Los Angeles.

It was noted that Sardelli was doing so well in Girls a la Carte, that it was decided to move it to the late shift for the late-daters in the lounge.

During one of Jack Benny's performances, spectators were in for a memorable moment. George Burns was lured onstage for some fast byplay with Benny, and he accidentally revealed the surprise snapper with which Benny planned to close his act. Not one to be underestimated, Benny's quick wit capitalized on the goof, making for an even funnier climax.

While Crosby was on for his opening show, Robert Goulet decided to poke him from behind the curtain. Only trouble was he didn't have the immediate perspective and the curtain billowed out to the fascination of the audience until Goulet finally hit his target.

It was stated that Goulet, his wife Carol Lawrence, and their son opted to stay at Johnny Carson's local home for the two week engagement.

When Steve Allen, and Jayne Meadows appeared at the resort they made it clear they were going to have fun. They brought their four sons, their motorcycles and boat for desert and lake cruising.

"Pat was headlining in the main room and I was starring in "Girls Ala Carte" in the lounge and alternating with main room appearances with Robert Goulet and Judy Garland. The holsters were mine. Those holsters are from before I became a "Two Gun" kind of guy. Pat has the most wonderful sense of humor. We have been friends since that time and often we spend hours on the phone talking about family, faith, politics, (we see things alike in that field), Patriotsim and we have a lot of laughs. On the Forrest Duke Show, Pat and I pulled a stunt, seeing that Pat and I were fighting on the air, Forrest went to a commercial break. Pat even mentioned that stunt in one of his books. He was dressed incognito, hat and dark sunglasses at night, smoking a cigar and spiting on the floor of the studio. He was playing "Washington Sarelli". We had fun in those days." - Nelson Sardelli, August 2003

Tony Atchley, Thunderbird's public relations director got a laugh when he stopped by Gene Detroy's room and saw the Marquis Chimps lounging in casual outfits waiting for the next performance. Atchley could almost imagine an inebriated guest opening the door, taking one sobering glance, and then screaming his way in the opposite direction.

The Continental, Casino, and the Captains of the Continental took out holidays ad in the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine. Listed under the casino were Mike Renis and Frank Portnoy with Day Shift Jerry Tassone, Art Gashler, Bob Lee, Bob Hybarger, Dick Brewer, Ed La Prairie and Tony Spano; Swing Shift Jimmy "Piggy" Moore, Vince Javoric, V.O. Sharkey, Rip Davis, Art Ralenkotter, Ebie "Abe" Ayoub, "Corky" Meyers, and Sam Rosenfeld; and Graveyard Shift Maurice Fitzgerald, Ray Whitney, Sam Rivkin, Bill Caldwell, and Lyness Dronet.

From January 2 through February 6, 1966, Thunderbird threw a $100,000 House Party. There were giveaways around the clock, with a $500 cash drawing every Sunday and a grand prize of a 1966 Lincoln or $10,000 diamond ring on the final night. Hotel guests were given an extra treat with a lucky room key drawing each evening.

In February of 1966, Arthur Godfrey flew Anni Anderson and her husband to Reno in his private plane to guest on his radio show.

In March of 1966 Ken Curtis (Gunsmoke's Festus) and his bride Torrie Connelly honeymooned at the resort.

In June of 1966, enroute from Dallas to Vegas, $10,000 of costumes slated for the resort's Bottoms Up production were destroyed when the crates were left outside in a Texas rainstorm.

In addition, secretaries at the Publicity Offices were driven crazy when the phones in their new offices (11 lines) all rang in unison whenever a call came in.

In 1966, the Continental Theatre showcased Bottoms Up w/Jan Sutton/C'est La Femme/R.V. Brand Orchestra. Also showcased were George Arnold Dancers; Belle Barth; Kaye Ballard; Girls a la Carte; Hollywood '66 a-Go-Go; The Jets; Kings IV; Korean Kittens; Gloria Hudson; Maori Hi-Five; Rudy & Anio; Bottoms Up; Fabulous Echoes; Watusi Stampede; Bill Carey; Mamie Van Doren; Jim & Pati; Luisa Triana; Shani Wallis/The Treniers; Watusi Stampede; and Henny Youngman.

The Thunderbird's female entertainers took cheese cake pictures and sent them to cheer up the boys in Vietnam. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Bill Woods sketched their likenesses and returned the favor to show their gratitude to the girls.

In the beginning of June 1967, Don Williams was hired as Entertainment Coordinator. After only three weeks of employment he was promoted to a top executive post in the resort.

In October of 1967, Flamingo had to cancel its Annual Christmas Press party due to reconstruction. The Party moved to the Thunderbird.

In 1967, the Continental Theatre showcased Bottoms Up '67 starring Nancy Austin/Breck Wall/Bill Fanning/Rob Barran; Melendy Britt; Jan Sutton; Betty Bunch; Ginny Klein; Barbara Rebeske; Rosalie Shay; The Treniers; Alicia Irwin; Claudia Garland; and Bert Pederson Orchestra. Also appearing during this time was Watusi Stampede; Sex and the Single Guy starring Jan Murray; and That Certain Girl w/Phil Foster; Virginia Mayo; Dennis O'Keefe; Gunilla Hutton; Michael Callan; Bobby Rydell; & Walter Slezak w/Cee Davidson Orchestra.

February 15, 1967 marked the resort's 5,000 performance of Bottoms Up.

The Thunderbird Lounge showcased The Apollos; Brotherly Love w/Odia Coates; Lynn Davis Quartet; Cliff Duphiney Trio; Herb Eden; Fabulous Echoes; Kings IV; Curtis Lee/Patti York/Baby Doll; Lively Five; Mickey Manners; George Mosse; Ray & Rene; Chris Fio Rito; Pat & Cash; Brothers Rivera w/Stacy Adams; Mickey Shaughnessy; Phyllis & Bobby Sherwood; Spring Singers; Stark Naked & The Car Thieves; The Swingin Lads; Johnny Ukelele; and The Yoyoz. Also showcased was Lotsa Little Lasses Revue starring Lynn O'Neill/Mickey Manners; Don Minter; Wingy Manone; and Gentlemen Prefer Revue starring Jack E. Leonard; Paula Wayne; and Mickey Manners & Gary Le Mel.

In December 1967, Thunderbird hosted 500 newsmen and their wives at the Dick Odessky's International Press Christmas Party.

In late 1967, Thunderbird signed on Producer Harold Minsky and Dance Director Jerry Norman for a new show. Right after the signing the first audition was set with nearly 300 girls applying. This was one of the biggest turn-outs in the city's history

"For the most part, I leave the choice of my dancers primarily to my choreographer, Jerry Norman. I of course make all final decisions on the basis of their appearance. When it comes to choosing the 'Minsky Showgirls', that's my province. Beautiful showgirls have been the trademark of Minsky shows since the early days of Burlesque. Years ago, it was the sexy or 'vamp' look that I was after, but not now. Today I'm looking for a pretty healthy, all-American appearance. Most producers choose girls of a uniform size, uniform dimensions. I believe no two men like exactly the same type of girl. I choose girls of all different sizes, hair color and dimensions, and strive to include a look that appeals to everyone." - Harold Minsky, December 1967 at Thunderbird Hotel and Casino

In 1968, Thunderbird advertised four restaurants, the Continental Theatre-Restaurant, Big Joe's Oyster Bar, The Steak House, and the Terrace Room coffee shop. She had two separate banquet/ballroom facilities for groups to 800.

The Executive Chef during this period was Carl T. Dorre. Born in Artesia, CA in 1934, his family moved to Nevada where he attended Henderson Grammar School and then went to Vegas in 1946 where he attended Las Vegas High School. While going to school, he worked part time in hotels and restaurants, also in meats both wholesale and retail. In 1954, he underwent a training program for four years including kitchens, bake shops and butcher shops. He worked his way up in the culinary field and spent three seasons in the Reno and Lake Tahoe areas. He has held the positions of Saucier and Sous Chef at some of the west's finest resorts and country clubs and at the age of just 26, he was the chef of Filipos Italian American Lodge in Vegas.

Dorre's favorite recipe was Viennese Beef Goulash. Ingredients: 3 lbs of stewing beef, 2 cups of chopped onion, 1/2 cup of lard, 1-1/2 tsp caraway seed, 1/2 tsp marjoram, 2 garlic cloves minced, 2 tbs paprika, 1/4 cup catsup, 1 tsp salt, 6 hot boiled potatoes, 3 hard cooked eggs sliced. Saute onion in fat for 5 minutes. Add beef, caraway, marjoram, garlic, salt, and two cups of water. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for one hour. Combine the paprika, catsup and two tbs water. Add this mixture to the stew and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve with potatoes and sliced eggs. Serves 6. (1968 Thunderbird and Dorre's picture, bio, and recipe donated by Dan Kubota).

In 1968, Continental Theatre showcased Thoroughly Modern Minsky starring Irving Benson, Lee Clifford, Marty May, Paisley Pop, Kim Summers, Harry J. Conley, Barbara Curtis, Max & Cherie, Kay Houston, Tom Allison, Betty Stowell, Diane Day, and Cee Davidson Orchestra. When this show moved from the Silver Slipper to the Thunderbird it presented new problems for Harold Minsky. The Thunderbird's stage was much larger and the show had to reshape itself to fit the new, much larger surroundings. Minsky was hoping that the Thunderbird management was going to provide more money so the settings and cast could grow to fit the new accommodations.

The renovated show was called A Night With Minsky starring Irving Benson, Sid Fields, Barbara Curtis, Dick Bernie, Marty May, Dick Albers, Lainie Miller, Jodi Lawrence, Key Houston, Betty Stowell, Diane Day, and Irv Gordon Orchestra.

The Thunderbird Lounge showcased The Apollos, Suzi Arden Show, Los Blues, Jim Burgette, Buckley & Collins, Coulter Twins, Curtis Lee V Show featuring Patti York, Fabulous Echoes, Otis Hale Happenings, Kings IV, Pat Moreno's Artists & Models, Nicholas Brothers, Nooney Rickett & The Moon Express, Lou Sino & The Bengals, Spiral Stare Case, Summer Winds, Tudera Sisters, and Patti York.

The top portion shows the Sahara stars - Johnny Carson, Eddie Fisher, Tony Martin, Mitzi Gaynor, Dinah Shore Tommy Smothers and Dick Smothers. The bottom half shows pictures of celebrities that appeared at the Thunderbird, Riviera, and Sahara. They include Dennis O'Keefe, Robert Goulet, Virginia Mayo, Debbie Reynolds, Liberace, Phil Foster, Buddy Hackett, and Michael Callan.

During the 1967-1968 year, Thunderbird advertised three days and 2 nights for $31.50 per person double occupancy. Extra nights were priced at $7.35 per person. This package included a choice of club breakfast or continental buffet luncheon, a buffet dinner, a show in the Continental Showroom including two cocktails, complimentary lucky coins and an additional cocktail. The price of $35.50 was charged for Friday or Saturday arrivals.

Publicity pictures for the resort included Oyster Bar, Thunderbird Steak House, guest room, pool, and Continental Theatre.

Tony Atchley was Assistant Executive Manager of the resort.

In 1969, Continental Theatre showcased The Madame starring Delphi Lawrence; and Flower Drum Song starring Jack Soo/Elaine Dunn/Yau Shan Tung, Linda Price & The Pipers, Artists & Models, and John Nagy Orchestra. Also showcased were Artists & Models, Come Blow Your Horn w/Selma Diamond/Jackie Coogan/Joi Lansing/Bill Hayes, Coulter Twins, Haw Haw starring the Geezinslaw Brothers, Phyllis & Bobby Sherwood, The Treniers, Tokyo Holidays, Nudes On Ice, Pardon My Can Can, and Latin Fire Follies.

In October of 1969, the Continental Theatre switched gears and opened the show Under the Yum Yum Tree starring Gardner McKay, Virginia Mayo, Robert Q. Lewis, and Patty McCormack. Also showcased was Haw-Haw starring the Geezinslaw Brothers, and Outer Limits.

In November of 1969, Thunder announced that when it opened its Virginia City Room on New Year's Eve, only the locals were invited. Since Vegas had expanded so tremendously, locals have chosen to remain at home on holidays. The Thunderbird wanted to be a place that locals could go and celebrate without tourists being present.

In December of 1969, the Continental Theatre again switched gears and showcased Latin Fire Follies. Also showcased in the afternoons was Haw-Haw starring Geezinslaw Brothers.

In May of 1970, Thunderbird was greatly disappointed to cancel their show Fun 'N Dames. The AG/Va's objection to the Immigration Department denying working visas for the London cast caused the cancellation. (Apparently they did get the visas because later on this show was advertised).

In 1970, Continental Theatre showcased Al Bello Revue, Booby Trap, Latin Fire '71 w/Marta Cisneros; Latin Fire Follies; Artists and Models; Good Humor Company featuring Linda Sublett/Joe Danova/Frank Gorshin/Jacqueline Douguet. Latin Fire performer July del Rio was a Cuban girl who lived in Spain. She came to Vegas to dance at the Desert Inn's Pzazz, and then moved over to Latin Fire. Also showcased was Fun 'n Dames, and Booby Hatch Revue. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin.

Fun n' Dames was produced and directed by Great Britain entrepreneur Allan Blackburn. The material was written expressly for the show by Brian Blackburn, a top comedy writer. The show starred The Dalys, one of Ireland's foremost recording teams with three consecutive hits in the British Irles. Also in the show were Dodie West, and Britain's Paul Tracey.

The Piano Bar showcased Jan Barker, Steve Beyer, Connie Kay, Janet Green, Bill Kane, Larry & Mary, and Primo & Gia. Tony Atchley was Assistant General Manager.

On November 2, 1970, Jack Kogan left KHBV-TV5 to host radio broadcasts for three hours, from 10:00pm at the resort.

In January of 1971, Fred Lawrence who was in charge of the beverages was in an out-of-state hospital for six weeks. When Lawrence returned, the Thunderbird staffers threw a surprise party arranged by Hotel Restaurants Manager Nick Crawford.

"Frank Gorshin drew standing ovations in his four-too-very-brief days. . . . There is much natural Gorshin talent, but he amazingly exceeds even that with his incomparable carbons of famous figures. Proud were the tears that glistened in the audience when Frank dramatically recalled departed performers and speculated on their ethereal dialogue. He pulled at the corners of your lips with W.C. Fields stage-whispering "those two pearls at the top of those gates have to be worth a half-million!" And he tore you apart with the vocal reincarnation of Jolson,unfolded on a darkened stage, with a totally hushed house. As long as there is a Frank Gorshin, the stars will never fade." - Etta Cortez, January, 1971

In March of 1971, Thunderbird announced its Cardinal Room Restaurant. The select price fixed menu of $6.45 included a choice of Porterhouse Steak, New York Sirloin Steak, Prime Rib of Beef, French Lamb Chops, Australian Lobster Tail or a combination of steak and lobster.

On December 3, 1971, Thunderbird was the host of the Fiesta de Santa Barbara being held by Senors Freddie Manjon and Manolo Torrente, producers and stars of Latin Fire Folies. Santa Barbara was the special Saint and protector of the two gentlemen and December 3rd was her native day. A statute of Santa Barbara reigned over the night-long festivities of music, food and dancing.

"In our native Cuba everyone picks a special saint for life-long protection. Santa Barbara is my saint and protector. Whenever I have problems or needs, I pray to her and anything I want, she gives me. We know that Santa Barbara will help us make Latin Fire Folies into a grand production such as the French Folies Bergere. We are asking her the right thing. We want always to make people happy with a magnificent show they can enjoy now and remember forever. Santa Barbara has her own color. It's red. Her altar is always decorated with red flowers; and we offer to her apples and other foods that are red. In he old days, she was offered the blood of animals. Chango is her Afro-Cuban name and it literally means that she rules over fire and blood." - Freddie Manjon

In 1971, Continental Theatre showcased Geisha 'rella starring Takeuchi Keigo/Tudera Sisters/Sabusawa Sisters/Su-San/Jim Wallace Orchestra, and the show Latin Fire '72 starring Argentinian Gauchos/Freddy Manjon/Manolo Torrente/Tun Tun/Teresita Rodriguez/Clarita Diaz/George Hernandez Orchestra. Also showcased were Pat Marino's Artists & Models, Pete Loza, and Bob & Vicky. Another show showcased was Bedtime Riot w/Nancy Austin/Bill Fanning, as well as Frank Gorshin. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin.

The Piano Bar showcased Jan Barker; Bob Brooks Duo; Bob Fletcher/Vicky Lano w/Hank & Company; Vic Garcia Trio; Marv Gordon Trio; Peter & The Wolf/Candy Graham; Gerry Gerardo; Larry & Larry; George Primo Trio; and Jan Barker.

It was noted that Geisha 'rella boasted 25 girls and one male. Although the sister teams of Tudera (Vegas born) and Sabusawa (nieces of Pat Suzuki), performed in this show elsewhere, this presentation was the first that brought them on the same stage in tandem.

In 1972, the Thunderbird was sold to the owners of Caesar's Palace, Clifford & Stuart Pearlman. The name was then changed to Thunderbird, A Division of Caesars World, Inc.

Also in 1972, Thunderbird Theatre showcased Latin Fire '73 starring Manolo Torrenet & Freddie Manjon; and the George Hernandez Orchestra; and Geisha'Rella Oriental Revue starring Takeuchi Keigo/Tudero Sisters/Sabusawa Sisters/Imperial Dancers/Jim Wallace Orchestra. Also showcased was Bob & Vicky; Fletcher & Lano; Denis Grillo Orchestra; and Pete Loza. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin.

The Lounge showcased Ed Diamond's Gentlemen; and Bob Fletcher & Vicky Lano w/Hank & Company.

Donated by Dennis Rosen

Buffet prices during this year was lunch - $1.83, dinner - $2.25, Sunday - $2.35, and children $1.50 and $.75.

In March of 1973, advertisements listed the resort as the New Thunderbird w/Donald O'Connor Revue appearing on April 5, 1973, as well as Tony Martin/Cyd Charisse.

In 1973, the Theatre showcased Geisha'Rella '73 starring Takeuchi Keigo/Imperial Japanese Dancers/The Tudera Sisters/Dennis Grillo Orchestra/Roy James Orchestra; and The Donald O'Connor Show with Doodletown Pipers/3rd Generation Steps. Also showcased were Joe Berlingeri Orchestra, Dave Burton, Page Cavanaugh Trio, Jackie Gayle, Fran Jeffries, Tony Martin/Cyd Charisse, Keely Smith, Mel Torme/Dick Shawn, Leslie Uggans/Pat Henry/ and Sarah Vaughan/Pat Henry. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin.

On opening night of his show, Donald O'Connor put on a great show even if he was suffering from 104 temperature.

Robert Goulet, Nancy Sinatra and Hugh Lambert were seen at the press party held for Tony Martin/Cyd Charisse. Producer Milton Deutsch was filming the Tony Martin/Cyd Charisse show from the resort for a one our TV musical special.

Mexico's Oscar Obregon made a special trip to see Martin/Charisse. He was so impressed that he signed them for Acapulco Holiday which was filmed in Mexico.

The Lounge showcased Dave Burton, East, Jack & Jon & The Upstarts, Jeannie Thomas Trio Bruce Westcott Trio, Sandi MacTavish & The Clan, Opus IV, Jeanne Thomas Trio (Relief), Chris Towns, The Upstarts, and Bruce Westcott.

It appears that the only buffet available was on Sundays for $2.35.

In 1974, the Continental Theatre showcased Edie Adams, Morey Amsterdam, Jim Bailey, Marty Barris, Pete Candoli, Cyd Charisse, Billy Eckstine, Bobby Goldsboro, Tony Martin, and Keely Smith. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin. The Lounge showcased Dave Burton, and Diane Eddington Trio.

In 1976, the Continental Theater showcased Billy Fellows/Leo De Lyon; The Limeliters; Sandler & Young. The Maitre d' was Eddie Martin. The Lounge showcased Tommy Deering.

The Pearlmans sold the hotel in 1977 to Dune's owner Major Auterburn Riddle who changed the name to Silverbird.

Even though the facade was changed, the buildings in the back remained the same with only the color changed from green to white.

"Riddle acquired the old "Thunderbird" which at the time was owned by Caesar's Palace. It was pretty much ignored by the owners of Caesar's. I guess they thought it was beneath them to have such a property. Major bought it and called it the "Silverbird." When I got married in the late 70's, Major "comped" my wedding and reception at the Bird. It also was a great success. He had a knack for attracting locals, and for being on the strip, it was a locals favorite. Joe's Oyster Bar was a real hangout in the place. It had been in existence for years, but when Caesars owned the place, they didn't care. Gene Lucas, and Fred Crossley were Major's right hand guys." - Mike Christ, July 2002

In 1979, Continental Theater showcased Ray Charles; Freddy Fender/George Lindsey; Tom Foolery Show; Jerry Lee Lewis; and Johnny Rodriguez/Jody Miller/George "Goober" Lindsey. The Maitre d' was Gino Pardini. cocktail shows ranged from $5.95 to $12.50.

Silver Star Lounge showcased Sonny King; Orange Colored Sky; and Zaras. The Mini-Lounge showcased Tyler Murray; and Smith Brothers.

Appearing at the Silverbird's Continental Theatre was The 5th Dimension.

In 1980, the resort advertised that it contained over 400 guest rooms and suites. Restaurants included Terrace Room Coffee Shop, La Paloma, and the gourmet restaurant Top Brass "the Major stakes his reputation on it!" It served T-bone and Porterhouse steaks. Lounges included Silver Star Lounge, and Casino Lounge.

The 750 seat Continental Theatre showcased entertainment at 9:00pm and midnight.

The casino was 80,000 square feet and contained Baccarat, a Race and Sports Book, a poker room, Keno lounge and Bingo parlor.

Silverbird offered her guests child care and pet boarding facilities, gift and jewelry shops, acres of security staffed, illuminated parking as well as valet main door parking, 24 hour room service, color TVs, message light phones and Val-Safe safekeepers. The resort also contained convention and banquet facilities, a barber shop, and laundry facilities.

Outside, the resort offered drinks, water floats, and sun tan lotion by her Olympic-sized pool.

During this year, the resort offered the "Silverspree", which for $59.95, a visitor was offered a 3 day, 2 night stay, a late show in the Continental Theatre including two cocktails, one free cocktail and show in the Casino Lounge, one free cocktail and show in New Silver Star Lounge, one buffet dinner, one free Keno ticket, and baggage handling in and out.

Click Here for pictures of the casino, restaurants, and theatre. Click Here for pictures of the casino, rooms and pool.

In 1980, Silverbird featured the show Ipi Tombi. The Mini Lounge showcased Denise Clemente, and the Smith Brothers.

Later on in 1981, veteran gambling operator Ed Torres purchased the Silverbird, added a Spanish style mission front, and renamed it El Rancho. The fourth lady of the Strip re-opened in 1982. The buildings were renamed Dodge City, Virginia City, and Carson City.

At the opening, thousands poured through the front doors past casino Operations Director Vic Vickery, who was decked out like a cowboy, donning a 10-gallon hat to match the hotel's Western theme.

"We thought it would go over great, and we thought if anybody could make the new El Rancho a success, it would be Ed Torres. It went well that first night, but it never quite clicked after that." - Steve Kennelley, El Rancho Floorman

Click Here for the Surveyor's Map dated March 22, 1982. Donated by Bob Trbovich

Next, a tower was built to add additional rooms. A 52 lane bowling center and a 90,000 square foot casino/race and sports books were also added. The bowling center also contained a bar and snack restaurant.

The El Rancho held one of the great "hidden jewels" in its Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant aka Joe's Oyster Bar.

"There, one could obtain a virtually 'all you can eat' Alaskan King Crab dinner, which consisted of two 2-foot long legs, sawed in half, a cup of melted butter, a baked potato the size of a football, a mountain of salad and all the dinner rolls you want for $5.95." - Dan Kubota

In addition to the above, the resort also contained the Depot Diner which served steaks, chops, prime rib, chicken, and barbecued ribs; Alamo Coffee Shop which was open 24 hours; Wagon Wheel Buffet; Pizzeria which served pizza and other Italian specialties; El Taco which served tacos, burritos, taco salads, and other Mexican dishes; and Dreyer's Famous Ice Cream which was located in the Video Arcade.

Also in 1982, a comedy club opened called Rodney's Place. This club was owned by comedian Rodney Dangerfield.

In 1985, Red River Lounge showcased Calamity Jane.

The Wagon Wheel Buffet cost $2.49 for lunch, and $3.49 for dinner.

At this time the casino held seven poker tables with Tom Virzi as Manager, sports and racing with Don Lanners as Manager, and Bingo with Richard.

Torres had always been considered somewhat of a maverick in the Nevada gaming scene, so no one was too surprised when he did something completely out of the ordinary at the El Rancho in 1987. Torres became the first casino owner to appointed a woman to the male-only position of casino manager.

Danou Sears arrived in Vegas from France in 1963, becoming a dancer with the Casino de Paris show at the Dunes Hotel. She remained at the Dunes for eight years before leaving to work for a year with a Barry Ashton show at the Union Plaza.

"When I first arrived here, I never thought about where I would be in 25 years. I started out as a dancer with Casino de Paris which ran for so long at the Dunes. I knew I wouldn't be dancing all my life, you can't, but I wasn't thinking about any long range goals at the time. I was simply going to keep dancing as long as I could at which time I might have ended up with nothing to show for it." - Danou Sears, 1987

Sears became a blackjack dealer, going to work at the Binion family's Horseshoe in 1972. Torres later hired her at the Riviera and she remained there until Torres called her to the Aladdin, where she became a shift boss before moving to the El Rancho as a shift boss supervising other dealers. Even then, there were few women in the pit, and many people thought she would never survive. She didn't let that interfere with her life. Instead, she learned how to react more quickly, judge more firmly, and let the people who worked for her know who was in charge without creating an overbearing atmosphere.

As Casino Manager, Sears worked more than eight hours a day, not because she was a woman and had to prove a woman could do the job, but because she loved the challenge. With her forceful personality, combined with the grace and dignity of a dancer, she had already made her mark in the gaming industry.

The local casino industry, she agreed had traditionally been a hotbed of male chauvinism and Sears grew accustomed to contending with this attitude.

"It is definitely a man's world. The men I have worked with did not always feel good about my presence, particularly when I was in a position that made me their superior. They would throw situations up to me, I think just to see if I could handle them. I enjoyed showing them I could play this sort of game and beat them at it." - Danou Sears, 1987

Sears agreed with other Vegas veterans who saw fewer big players, but she is very thankful for other changes, shifts in thinking that helped bring her to her lofty position.

"Yes, the big player is gone now, and it is also true that Las Vegas now attracts many more average people. A few years ago there would have been no chance that I could hold a job like the one I have now." - Danou Sears, 1987

In September of 2003, Danou also stated that in 1987 that David Goldstein who was part owner of the Dunes, went to work at the El Rancho as Host and Publicity Representative.

On June 20, 1992, the main casino was dotted with a handful of patrons and an equal number of workers. The bingo room however, was filled with players getting in their final games.

"I always come down here to play when I'm in town. It's more interesting that most of the bingo games in town." - Linda Anderson of Canada, 1992

"I feel badly because I come here because it's so close to where I live. People are so nice and I just like it. I come here about five times a week." - Florence Heller of Las Vegas 1992

On June 30, 1992, El Rancho closed her sports book, a cocktail lounge, and bingo parlor. Her slot machines were unplugged. On July 5, 1992, she closed her bowling alley, bar, and coffee shop. Finally, on July 6, 1992, the 1,000 room fourth lady on the Strip closed her doors forever. Her sister, The Algiers was unaffected. A total of 325 people lost their jobs.

The following is a quote from the LV Sun. This article was given to me by Bob Trbovich.

"But overall, not enough people come to the casino to justify keeping it open. Only two table games were open Tuesday, and the casino has already been closing at midnight, said Al Lovato, a pit boss.

'These games are really open for the hotel guests only,' Lovato said of the two blackjack games.

Ed Torres bought the resort from Major Riddle in 1982 and changed the name to El Rancho because it's across the street from the original El Rancho, the first casino on the Strip.

Its age is partly to blame for its demise, resort lawyers said. Newer and bigger Strip resorts are draining customers away from the older, Western-themed property.

Torres, 74, could not be reached for comment about the closure.

Despite the increased competition, several workers said the property failed in part because of a lack of marketing.

'I have a feeling competition isn't the whole problem,' said Carol Blamer, bowling alley manager. 'There are other older places still doing OK. I think there's just a lack of marketing.'

Heller also blamed marketing for the property's failure. 'You have to wonder why because it looks like such a great spot,' Heller said. 'If they promoted the property it would really do well.' - Written by Lynn Waddell, 1992

Here are some photographs of the resort taking during that time. The following scans were donated by Bob Trbovich.

Front of the resort.
Exterior of the resort.
Alamo Coffee Shop and Red River Lounge.
Bowling alley and Retail Arcade.
Hallways of the low-rise (Thunderbird buildings) and tower.
Room and suite in the tower.
Suites in low-rise (Thunderbird buildings).
Rooms in low-rise (Thunderbird buildings).
Rooms in low-rise (Thunderbird buildings).
Registration desk and Rio Grande Ballroom.

In November of 1993, Las Vegas Entertainment Network Inc., (LVEN) a Los Angeles-based television production company purchased the property for $36.5 million. The purchase price included $21.5 million in cash and a promissory note that was secured by the real estate.

At that time, LVEN stated the property would be transformed to Countryland USA. The country-and-western themed resort would have two hotel towers shaped like cowboy boots, a rodeo arena, and a country themed park. The project went nowhere but El Rancho remained LVEN's biggest asset, accounting for $42.5 million of its reported holdings of $48 million.

A $12 million note was due November of 1994, and was not paid. An extension was given to August 15, 1995, where the company agreed to pay 18% interest on the loan, up from 8% previously. At that rate, about $180,000 in interest accrued on the loan each month. LVEN stated it needed $300,000 monthly to meet cash expenditures and it was at risk of losing its only major asset - El Rancho.

John Bryan, an international financier who gained notoriety for his relationship with Sarah Ferguson, (Bryan is most famous for the intimate photos taken at poolside showing the topless duchess snuggling with Bryan, who was kissing her toes), and who was known as Fergie's financial adviser stepped in spending $8 million for 5.5 million shares of LVEN under his British firm Whatley Investments. In addition, Whatley agreed to invest $10 million in an LVEN subsidiary in exchange for 10% of its stock. Whatley Investments consisted of Bryan as well as his father, Tony Bryan, and Allen Starkie, another friend of Ferguson. Whatley intended to start construction on July 4, 1995 but the day passed with no construction activity.

In August of 1995, it was reported that LVEN missed the $12 million payment on the El Rancho property. LVEN stated it decided to terminate an agreement with Whatley Investments. The company was then told they have to make a mortgage payment by December 1, 1995, or lose the property.

In February, 1996, Orion Casino Corp, a newly formed Nevada subsidiary of International Thoroughbred Breeders, purchased the 21 acre El Rancho from LVEN for $43.5 million. LVEN also negotiated profit participation rights, which could net the company another $160 million. International Thoroughbred Breeders was a New Jersey company that owned and operated racetracks in Freehold and Cherry Hill. Its parent company was International Thoroughbred Gaming of Cherry Hill.

On February 21, 1996, Orion announced plans to add a $1 billion multicasino project, a space-themed Starship Orion complex. Company officials projected the 5.4 million square foot hotel, casino, retail and entertainment complex would open in April of 1998.

"Starship Orion is not just a name. It is Las Vegas' first Entertainment Superstore that takes gaming, retail and entertainment to the next level." - Francis Murray, Orion Chairman and President.

Designed to resemble a spaceship, the project would consist of seven separately owned and operated casinos, 300,000 square feet of retail space, 2,400 hotel rooms, an "alien" circus, theaters and various interactive and motion-based entertainment rides. The project's centerpiece was to be a constellation-class outer-space ship that would be 750 feet in circumference. Interior passageways would connect 1,000 first-class passenger cabins with restaurants, lounges, and a planetary sports book. Immediately adjacent was to be The Emerald, a 65 story, 1,400 room luxury hotel. The project was to be designed by Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum Inc's Studio E, whose projects included the Smithsonian Institution's National Air & Space Museum in Washington and Jacobs Field in Cleveland.

Artist's renditions of the Orion.

Orion intended to lease space to seven casino operators, who would pay for improvements, including structures.

New Jersey Horseracing Association subsequently purchased the El Rancho but they couldn't get financing. The City ordered the Association to tear down the building. They commenced destruction in June of 1999, but subsequently halted the demolition.

The following pictures were taken on June 20, 1999. Construction workers were on the scene, and an old covered wagon was seen under the porte cochere.

Click here to see pictures of this poor lady as of June 20, 1999.

Click here to see pictures of this poor lady as of February 7, 2000.

On May 23, 2000, the Florida based company, Turnberry Associates, purchased the 21 acre El Rancho for $45 million from the defunct New Jersey company International Thoroughbred Breeders.

Turnberry Associates is the developer of the upscale $600 million Turnberry Place condominium project on Paradise Road near the Strip.

"The first item on the agenda is to demolish the old El Rancho. Then we'll come up with some sort of plan for development. There's no rush. It's a valuable piece of property we'll take our time with. There's definitely not a definitive plan but he (Jeffrey Soffer, Principal of Turnberry) envisions a hotel-casino, probably. The key purpose for the acquisition of the property is it has value, and we get rid of an eyesore. The presence of the El Rancho in clear sight of the high-end condos has been an issue with a number of sales, but we've overcome it. I think our typical buyer is a fairly sophisticated individual, and knew that the El Rancho wouldn't be there forever." - John Riordan, Vice President Turnberry.

Since I don't know how long KLAS Channel 8 will have their El Rancho page up, I have taken all the information and pictures and incorporated it into this site. Click here to see a reproduction of Las Vegas Channel 8 El Rancho page.

On July 18, 2000, I was able to enter this poor lady and took some pictures before I was kicked out. Please click here to see exterior pictures.
Click here to see interior pictures.

The following pictures have been donated by Dave DelVal.

Click here to see El Rancho sign, pool, and Thunderbird structures.
Click here to see interior pictures of guestroom, kitchen and bar.
Click here to see pictures of new and old together - the El Rancho Tower with the Thunderbird structures.
Click here to see pictures of the Thunderbird structures with Turnberry Condos, Stratosphere, and Las Vegas Hilton.
Click here to see pictures of Thunderbird structures and El Rancho sign.
Click here to see pictures of kitchen, bowling alley, and sports book.

The following pictures have been donated by Tommy Doan.
Click here to see pictures of the exterior and signs.

The following pictures have been donated by Shawn Wilsie.

Click here to see the lady waiting for demolition.

Click here to see pictures of some of the gambling equipment that was provided by Larry Zeidman.

I'm trying to find out the names of the Thunderbird's buildings and their origin. If anyone knows, please e-mail me.

On October 2-3, 2000, Tommy Doan was at the El Rancho and took pictures of her last moments on the Strip. Tommy told me that the room buildings in the back, as well as the parking structure, were already gone.
Click here for Set 1
Click here for Set 2
Click here for Set 3
Click here for Set 5 - The Algiers

The Thunderbird/Silverbird/El Rancho was imploded with just 700 pounds of explosives in front of more than 2,000 onlookers just after 2:30am on October 3, 2000.

Several sharp explosions, each sounding like a loud shotgun blast, ripped through the 13-story, 600-room tower seconds before the building caved in on itself. The implosion took only about 20 seconds, and sent up a swirling dust cloud signaling the death of the 4th lady on the Strip.

Officials from Florida-based Turnberry Associates, developer of the $600 million Turnberry Place condominium project and owner of the property, watched the building fall from the 29th floor of the Riviera, where the destruction rattled windows and vibrated the hotel tower of the 9th lady of the Strip.

For safety, the entire El Rancho property was fenced off, and about 200 Metro Police officers were on hand to keep crowds of onlookers out of harm's way. Las Vegas Boulevard from Sahara Avenue to just north of Spring Mountain Road was shut down at 2:00am and was reopened by 3:00am. Spectators gathered on the top floors of parking garages at the surrounding hotels and on the vacant land across Las Vegas Boulevard next to Circus Circus to watch the El Rancho's last stand.

"Something had to be done, and things need to change, but when a place has memories attached to it, it's tough to see it go. ... Pretty soon people were saying, 'just wait until the bowling alley opens,' or 'just wait until the showroom opens,' but in the end it didn't help. Another Western-themed casino opened up right around the same time as the El Rancho, and then we had Sam's Town and Ghost Town." - Steve Kennelley

"It was just a down home, comfortable, country atmosphere inside the place. My dad loved working there and never even thought about going anywhere else. There were a lot of close people that worked there, almost like a family." - Chuck Wheeler Jr., whose father was head of security at the El Rancho

Unlike the other ladies of the Strip that have died, this one left a legacy - a reminder to all of her presence - her little sister The Algiers which is owned by Marianne Kifer. Marianne is the daughter of the Thunderbird visionaries, Marion and Lillian Hicks. During the implosion, little sister Algiers was draped in plastic, and suffered only a sprinkling of dust. There were no guests inside because LVI paid for all of the lodge's rooms for the night.

The above scans were from Las Vegas' newspaper The Las Vegas Sun.

Click here to see a picture after the resort was demolished. This picture shows the Thunderbird's legacy The Algiers next to the lot. This scan was donated by Tammy Kirby and Tom Amigone.

Click Here to see the rubble next to the Riviera.

When the El Rancho came down, she left 10,000 tons of concrete remains. The El Rancho's remains benefitted Las Vegas when The Southern Nevada Water Authority and the Las Vegas Wash Coordination Committee decided to use her remains to reinforce one structure in a planned network of the Las Vegas Wash. The building of the structures is to stabilize the wash channel in the first step in restoring wetlands. The structures are designed to curb erosion and help wetlands that filer water entering Lake Mead, the area's primary drinking water supply.

Since the early 70's, the wetlands along the Las Vegas Wash have dwindled from 2,000 acres to less than 200 acres. The loss has reduced nature's ability to filter pollutants from urban runoff and remove chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticide residue. Most of the channel's erosion has been blamed on releases from the three sewage treatment plants that feed the channel.

Work was underway to separate the El Rancho's concrete from the rest of the debris. It was trucked to a staging area near the wash for reinforcing an existing structure that spans the wash a few miles upstream from where it empties into Lake Mead's Las Vegas Bay.

In January, 2001, Turnberry announced it is planning to place a 44-story London-themed casino resort with replicas of Big Ben and the Tower Bridge.

According to plans filed with the Clark County Comprehensive Planning Department, Turnberry wants to develop a 2,047-room hotel 535 feet tall with a 90,000-square-foot casino. Plans filed with the county did not indicate how many slot machines or table games are anticipated.

The resort would be centered on replicas of Big Ben, the clock tower adjacent to Great Britain's Parliament, and the majestic Tower Bridge, the graceful twin-tower bridge spanning the Thames River. Plans indicate the Big Ben replica would be larger than the 320-foot London landmark.

Like the Mandalay Bay, the property's porte cochere would be located off the Strip. The porte cochere will be adjacent to the parking lot of the Wet 'n Wild water theme park just to the north right before Sahara.

Though Turnberry is ace in the condominium development business, it does not have experience in gaming. That, combined with the north Strip location of the proposed London hotel-casino, may create challenges for the company.

"Clearly their location is inferior to the New World guys (at the south end of the Strip) and Steve Wynn (owner of the Desert Inn). They are clearly strongly suited to developing real estate, but they don't have any operating experience. They've have to hire that in front of raising financing, because investors take great comfort in management in addition to location and percentage of equity (Turnberry is willing to invest). The market right now for high-yield for better quality gaming issuers ... is very strong. They need to hire a competent management team if they expect to get financing in the bank or high-yield markets. To be competitive on the Las Vegas Strip today, you've got to invest somewhere in the vicinity of a billion dollars. With $50 million in equity plus $50 (million in additional equity investments), it would be virtually impossible to get a bank or high-yield investor to consider it (financing a billion-dollar project)." - Andrew Zarnett of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown

Larry Faigin, president of GreenPark, said the partnership is raising $200 million to finance the project and Warburg Pincus Ventures, a New York venture capital firm, has committed $20 million to the project.

Click Here to see the tombstone among the living ladies on the Strip. This was taken February 23, 2001.

I saw the sign in July of 2001, and it has a covering which makes it quite attractive. Click Here to see pictures of the new sign plus the first stage of building the new resort.

In August of 2001, it was reported that the London resort will be 44 stories, containing 2,047 rooms.

In the beginning of 2002, it was reported that Turnberry decided to build timeshares instead of a resort.

In February 2003, I took a couple of pictures of the building going on the property. From what I can see, it looked like a timeshare.