In the beginning of 1956 it was estimated that the resort, located on ten acres, would cost $8 million, have 304 rooms, and open on June 1, 1956.

These shots show the shallow pool surrounding the tulip that was incorporated within the hotel's air conditioning system, and the resort on the desert land.

The $15 million, 34 acre, 300 room, Tropicana, called the "The Tiffany of the Strip" by publicist Harvey Diederich opened on April 4, 1957, with six acres to spare.

Opening night festivities were provided by Monte Proser's "Tropicana Revue", a $250,000 musical starring Eddie Fisher in the Theatre Restaurant later renamed Fountain Theatre. Advertised as the greatest thing to happen to Las Vegas since legalized gambling, the all original musical set amid a backdrop of the tropics showcased the hotel's impressive theatre-restaurant which accommodated 450 people. Eddie Fisher was seen mingling with the guests before the show.

Las Vegas Mayor C.D. Baker, Lt. Governor Rex Bell and a Tropicana showgirl cut the ceremonial ribbon. Bell later turned the key and threw it away as the crowd stampeded in the main entrance. Bell was a popular western movie actor and was the widower of screen star Clara Bow, the celebrated "It Girl".

Also in attendance for the opening was Eddie Fisher and his wife Debbie Reynolds, as well as Eddie Cantor.

Eddie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds, & Eddie Canter

"This was my own little personal milestone. I played the first note (yes, one single note) on my accordion in the lounge that afternoon symbolizing the official door-opening. The opening groups were my trio - The Sam Melchionne Trio, Bernie Neiro Trio and Red Norvo Trio alternating in the early hours. And Nat Brandywynne, had hired us and six other groups---- all of which where piano trios. And I do remember their names. Monte Proser, producer, said..."What else did you expect?.... Nat's a piano player", giggling." - Sam Melchionne in 2001, on the opening of the resort

Tropicana Revue was known for the members of its chorus marrying men of stature. Bing Crosby's twin sons, Philip and Dennis, married showgirls from the chorus. One journalist at the time called the resort "Crosbys' playpen".

Later on gossip journalist Walter Winchell starred in the Revue. Winchell included his stage appearances in his radio broadcasts to "Mr. and Mrs. American and all the ships at sea."

The Tropicana's roadside sign consisted of large and small petals of a 60 foot tulip shaped fountain which flashed in opposite directions with rose and aqua neon which measured 110 feet in diameter. The porte cochere was built to enter a sprawling casino with two and three story room wings around the garden pool. The hotel was designed in a "Y" shape to maximize efficiency. More than one employee per guest was provided to assure that patrons received prompt service.

Jaffe leased the casino operations out to Phil "Dandy" Kastel, but Kastel was denied a gaming license because of his past association with Frank Costello. Jaffe then obtained the service of Louis J. Lederer in charge of the casino. J.K. Houssel was Casino Manager, and Robert O. Cannon was General Manager.

The Tropicana contained formal gardens, landscaped at a staggering $80,000, surrounding a scalloped-edged Olympic-size pool in the center courtyard. Tastefully appointed guest rooms with individual lanais looked out across the lush, private tropical setting.

When the Desert Inn opened its large pool in 1955, the Last Frontier filled in its old roadside pool and built a heated one of AAU dimensions with a subsurface observation room at the deep end and deck-side bar. The Desert Inn then replaced its original pool with one even bigger, only to have the Sands create a thing of free flow design large enough to float a cruiser. The Tropicana countered with their pool containing under water Muzak.

In 1957, mobster Frank Costello narrowly escaped assassination in his New York apartment house lobby. A handwritten note was found in his pocket, noting "gross Casino Win as of 4-26-57 . . . $651,284", the exact Tropicana take on that date. Portions of his Tropicana memo were written by Lederer. Because of this, Nevada authorities ordered Lederer removed from the gaming industry. 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 Desert Inn/Stardust's manager Alard Roen in the $13,000,000 New York stock swindle indictments. Garfield also attended grammer school in Detroit with Desert Inn/Stardust boss Moe Dalitz.

Houssel supposedly bought out Jaffe in either 1958 or 1959, when he was seen carrying a paper bag containing $50,000 in a paper bag to refresh the bankroll of the gaming operation mysteriously closed by a nervous casino manager.

Mickey Colahan, formerly with the New York Yankees was co-owner and casino manager. Colahan stood six feet, four inches tall and once boasted such broad shoulders that four women could cry on them at the same time.

In July of 1957, Leona Gage was dethroned from her first place winner in the Miss U.S.A. contest. It seemed that marriage and two children were not qualifications for a "Miss" beauty contest. Monte Proser saw the beauty and signed her to appear at the resort as a showgirl. Her contract began on August 16, 1957.

Harry Farnow and Leon Kind worked the swing shift at the resort. What most people didn't know was that Leon Kind was the Ace who piloted President Eisenhower all through Korea during the crisis.

In October of 1957, Trop dancers Felicia Atkins, Betty Jean Hansen and Marilyn Johnson hosted 65 of their co-workers and friends at a Halloween costume party at Atkins' home on Evergreen Ave. Marley Sanderson and Marilyn Johnson won 1st and 2nd prizes for their imaginative costuming while Kenny Davis and Bill Norvass gathered 1st and 2nd prizes for the men's contingent. Dean Shendall of the Sands and Anthony Fertita of the El Rancho were the judges.

In 1957, Tropicana showcased Monte Proser's Tropicana Revue starring Ernie Kovacs/Edie Adams/Neile Adams/Mary Ellen/Dante D'Paulo/Leona Gage/Lizanne Truex/Bobby Milano/Kitty Dolan/The Bill Norvas Singers/The Tropicana Girls/Betty Jean Hansen, Eddie Fisher, Korothy Kirsten, Dick Shawn, and Nat Brandwynne & His Orchestra. In July, Tropicana showcased Monte Proser's Tropicana Revue w/Carol Channing/Sylvana Lewis/Jack Costanzo/Bill Norvas Singers/Elaine Dunn/Dante d' Paulo/Betty Jean Hanson/The Tropicana Girls/Nat Brandwynne & His Orchestra. In November she showcased Monte Proser's Second Edition of Tropicana Revue starring Celeste Holm/Neile Adams/Vivian Blaine/Nat Brandwynne & His Orchestra/Dante D'Paulo/Kitty Dolan/Mary Ellen/Leona Gage/Betty Jean Hansen/Bobby Milano/Bill Norvas Singers/Dick Shawn/Lizanne Truex/Tropicana Girls. The Maitre d' was Richard Hubert.

The Showcase Lounge featured Betty Jean Hansen, Roy Maxwell Trio, Bernie Nerow Trio, Red Norvo, and Harry Owens and his Royal Hawaiians.

It was reported that in 1958, Jaffe was trying to complete a deal to increase the room capacity to 450 of which he succeeded. Brochures at the time boasted "40 acres of Desert Wonderland".

Each of the 450 rooms were individually air-conditioned rooms. The rooms had their own private terrace for sunning or relaxation. Every bath, with combination tub and shower had been tastefully decorated to complement each room.

It also listed the Showcase Lounge, Celebrity Room opened from 6:00pm to midnight, and the Brazilian Room.

"The Theatre Restaurant was acclaimed by the press as the outstanding cafe entertainment in the world. There were two shows nightly, 8:00pm and midnight on the world's largest nightclub stage."

The Casino was designed in grand proportions with every convenience arranged.

Tropicana listed Men's and Women's Apparel by Ronzone's which was opened seven days a week; Fur Shop which adjoined the casino was by William Baer of Beverly Hills; the Drug and Gift Shop was located in the hotel lobby; Florist and Candy Shop were located in the main lobby; Beauty Salon; Barber Shop; and Valet Service. The Health Club adjoined the pool with supervised licensed chiropractors. Open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, with separate facilities for men and women. Complete with masseur and masseuse, steam rooms, solarium and slumber room. Facilities for conventions, sales meetings were in the Goldfield Room which accommodated up to 550 persons. Display and exhibit area was located in the Goldfield Lounge. There were also Conference rooms, each accommodating up to 50 persons. The finest audio and visual aids were available. Rates were Double Occupancy - $10 to $18 per day; suites from $35 to $75 a day.

George Roberts was the Maitre d' for the Gourmet Room, with Catering Manager Peter Gobbe being brought in from New York. Music during dinner was provided by Julian Floorman with his $25,000 Stradviarius violin. Chef Martin Appelt controlled every meal in the resort's four restaurants. The Maitre 'd of the Theatre Restaurant was John Morelli who spoke seven languages. Robert Cannon was General Manager. Phil Long was in charge of the casino operations. Bill Pierce was the Public Relations Chief, with Maxine Lewis being his assistant. Managing Direct was Ted Shimberg.

Also in 1958, newlywed Jayne Mansfield, her husband Mickey Hargitay, Spike Jones, Helen Grayco, Ernie Kovacs, and Yvonne DeCarlo visited the Tropicana. The second picture is of Mansfield and her husband Mickey Hargitay taken in 1960.

Folies showgirl Felicia Atkins appeared as Playmate of the Month in Playboy's April 1958 issue.

A headliner during 1958 was Eddie Fisher. It was reported that he established a new attendance record. Patrons were standing along the back walls to see him. Everyone was amazed to see that every patron in the audience, regardless of their nationality, enjoyed Fisher's rendition of Hebrew folk songs.

"I can recall most vividly a back in '58 when he made his night club debut at the swanky Tropicana Hotel. Eddie even had trouble walking across the stage. He looked like a scared guy walking barefooted on glass. And his singing was far from spectacular. - Ralph Pearl, Feb. 1963

In 1958, Tropicana showcased Monte Proser's Tropicana Holiday starring Jack Ackerman/Carla Alberghetti, /Nat Brandwynne & his Orchestra/George Chakaris/Cathy Crosby/Bob Devoye Trio/Elaine Dunn/Sean Garrison/Dante D'Paulo/Duke Hazlett/Ernie Kovacs/Edie Adams/Jayne Mansfield w/Mickey Hargitay/Noonan & Marshall/Johnny Puleo & His Harmonica Gang/Dick Shawn/Jackie Tallman/George Tapps & His Dancers/Lizanne Truex/Don Williams Singers/Most Beautiful Girls in the World/Walter Winchell. The words and music by Gordon Jenkins. Other shows this year included Monte Proser presents Carol Channing and a New Musical Comedy w/Nat Brandwynne & his Orchestra/Elaine Dunn/Mary Ellen/Noonan & Marshall/George Tapps & His Dancers/Lizanne Truex/Don Williiams Singers; and Monte Proser presents Red Buttons/Nat Brandwynne & his Orchestra/Most Beautiful Girls in the World/George Tapps & his Dancers/Lizanne Truex/Don Williams Singers. Also showcased were Eddie Fisher, Shecky Greene, and Roberta Sherwood. The Showcase Theatre showcased Jerry Colonna, Jerry Lester in Vegas Open House, and The Three Suns.

It was noted that the original Three Suns, Artie Dunn, Al Nevins & Morty Nevins wrote the music for Twilight Time which sold over r-1/2 million copies after its first release. The second release sold over 2 million. They then recorded Peg-O-My Heart which sold another 2-1/2 million. The Nevins retired and Dunn replaced them with Johnny Romero and Tony Lovello.

Also of note was that Carla Alberghette, younger sister of Anna Maria Alberghetti, made her first appearance in Vegas as a solo headliner at the resort. All previous engagement had been made with Anna Maria.

In 1959 the Tropicana played hospital when one patron gave birth to a baby in the ladies lounge. The patron was rushed to the room and a cocktail waitress assisted in the birth. It was reported that the mother and baby made it through this emergency in excellent condition.

In the beginning April of 1959, Tropicana introduced the table game Chemin De Fer tabled by dealers Bernie Singler and Jim Thomas.

"Before she left to film The Sheriff of Fractured Jaw in England, Jayne Mansfield, and her family spent four weeks in Las Vegas. She had been asked to appear in nightly performance at the Tropicana, where she sang, danced and joked with the audience, and could not refuse the offer of $25,000 a week. Jayne loved being able to personally interact with her fans, and the Tropicana loved the crowd she drew. Her performance brought in a packed house every night. It was the beginning of a long-standing, highly successful nightclub career for Jayne. Several years later she returned to Las Vegas, this time at the Dunes Hotel, where her weekly salary was raised to $35,000. Though she began touring with her act, Jayne's stage performances were not limited to nightclubs. She renewed her involvement in the theater, most notably in an acclaimed production of Bus Stop. "As the chanteuse being abducted by the lonesome cowboy, Miss Mansfield can hardly help stealing scenes," said a critic. "But oft times the scenes are earned rather than stolen�it turns out the lady is endowed with a comedic talent." She also dabbled in television, with cameo appearances on The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Jack Benny Program, Burke's Law and The Steve Allen Show. Ultimately, Jayne juggled a career that encompassed almost every media facet. Unfortunately, as so often happens in Hollywood, Jayne and Mickey's relationship had become strained. They decided to divorce in August 1964, but always remained good friends." - Mike Christ, June 2002

The Theatre Restaurant showcased Lou Walters presents Folies Bergere with a cast of 80 starring Mme. Baron's Can Can Ballet/Janine Caire/Elsa & Waldo/Florence & Frederic Dancers/Herman Kaye & his Orchestra/Maria Lopez/Channing Pollock/Colette Riedinger/Ralph Young. Showgirls Margie Nelson and Joy Blaine were on covers of the Fabulous Las Vegas magazines.

Also in 1959, Jayne Mansfield appeared at the Tropicana show French Dressing with a review stating "in an even more daring dress than anyone else has ever worn." Also in Mansfield's show were 24 Lovely EY-E-D-E-A-R-S w/Kathy Reed/Miss Nevada Joy Blaine/Elsa & Waldo/Phil Ford & Mimi Hines/Mickey Hargitay/Jackie Miles/Beverly Scalzo & Bob Fletcher/Arthur Lee Simpkins/The Don Williams Boulevardies, The Six Flying De Pauls, Lucien & Ashour, Nicki & Piroska, The Can-Can Dancing Girls, and Herman Kaye & his Orchestra. The show was produced by Entertainment Director Lou Walters (father of newswoman Barbara Walters) and Choreographed by Kenny Davis.

"The Flying De Pauls are making their first appearance in the U.S. The girls hail from Australia and are well known to theatre audiences both there and in Britain. They have played most of the major theatres throughout the Continent and included among their greatest performances were those at the London Palladium, The Alhambra Theatre, Gaunmount Palace, Olympia Music Hall, and Moulin Rouge in Paris. They have also scored sensational success in Nice, Monte Carlo, Cannes, Helsinki, and St. Remo. They are the only girl team of acrobats to ever perform for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburg." - Jack Cortez, 1959

Also appearing separately this year were 24 Lovely E-Y-E-D-E-A-R-S w/Kathy Reed, Edie Adams, Joy Blaine, Nat Brandwynne & his Orchestra, Chiquita & Johnson, Dominque, Yvonne DeCarlo & Ted Lewis, Allan Drake, Eddie Fisher with Eddy Samuels at the Piano, (choreographed by Kenny Davis), Ford & Hines, Zsa Zsa Gabor/Dick Shawn, Gali Gali, Betty Grable, Shecky Greene, Celeste Holm, Herman Kaye & his Orchestra, Linda Lombard, Jackie Miles, Dorothy Shay, Roberta Sherwood, Arthur Lee Simpkins, Dick Towers, The Tropicana Beauties, and Senor Wences.

The Showcase Lounge featured Andrini Brothers; The Brothers 4; Norman Brown Sextet; Jerry Colonna/Gardner Sisters; Dr. Michael Dean; Al De Paulis 4; Dubonnet Trio; Shecky Greene; Royal Hawaiian Revue featuring Kuulei & Gwen Dolyne; Margo & The Toreadors; Frank Moore Four; Holly Twins; Julius Klein/Sacha Lukas; Perez Prado and His Orchestra; Dick Contino; Dubonnet Trio; and Snooper Rogers.

On March 3, 1959, Fisher and wife Debbie Reynolds appeared with columnist Ralph Pearl at the KLAS-TV Studios.

Shecky Greene decided to have some fun when he took out a half-page ad in the 1959 Fabulous Las Vegas magazine.

Eddie Fisher had a bad virus, laryngitis, and a fever of 104 degrees and had to bow out of some of his shows. El Rancho sent Joe E. Lewis and Austin Mack to substitute for Fisher for the Monday night opening. Sahara sent Harvey Stone for the second show, and Riviera sent over Trude Adams for Tuesday's show. Riviera and Desert Inn sent Gordon Mac Rae and George Gobel to also help while Fisher was recuperating.

On May 31, 1959, Tropicana discontinued the game Chemin De Fer as it apparently caused more confusion than it was worth.

"Let the others have it and be happy, we're delighted that Chemin De Fer isn't played at the Trop." - Casino Manager Phil Long

Long also had a problem when he refused to give one of the lady patrons of the Trop more credit. He had already cashed three checks for the gambling lady and mentioned "86". The lady attacked him, scratching his face. It probably could have been worse but the Hotel Deputies were on the ball and arrived just as the attack began.

Joan Crawford was chosen to be Hostess and the Guest of Honor at the United Jewish Appeal, a kick-off dinner that was held at the resort on July 12, 1959. Crawford took a break filming The Best of Everything to attend.

"I feel it a great honor to aid in this cause. This is certainly not an effort on the part of the Jewish community alone, but rather one that should be shouldered by everyone to aid the suffering people of Israel." - Joan Crawford

In the fall of 1959, Desert Inn purchased the 10 year contract that the Tropicana held with Eddie Fisher.

In 1959 it was reported that the Tropicana was in trouble. Despite the resort's elegance and decor, crowds stayed away in droves - patronizing instead, casinos of rival hotels down the Strip whose cramped lobbies were no match for the Tropicana's but whose friendly atmosphere and shows were.

Tropicana's trouble was two-pronged. An alien eastern management which lacked the necessary urbane-folksy hometown touch, and inability to land big name entertainers who could draw customers.

In late 1959, two fortunate things happened. First, J. Kell Houssels, Sr., an old-time Las Vegan and a good solid businessman, became President of the operating corporation. This assured hometown management, as opposed to the founding regime which apparently had invaded the city with a slightly condescending know-it-all attitude.

"When you find a new group coming into Vegas with an attitude of 'we think we can do it better,' or, 'we can show them how a hotel should operate,' the chances are they are going to wind up in trouble." - Unknown Tropicana personnel

Houssels gave the hotel native management - the local, friendly touch it lacked. That solved one problem. Then along came Vice President R.O. Cannon, who gambled brilliantly to correct the show business dilemma. The Houssels/Cannon group reasoned that since the name star was not, and would not always be, available, even at astronomical prices the hotel was willing to pay, an answer might be found in the expensive, super-production, spectcular. It was working for the Stardust (Lido), and Dunes (Minsky's). Entertainment Director Lou Walters took on the task of creating this show.

The publicist during this year was Maxine Lewis. A cashier was Mike Brown, 21 Pit Boss was Mory Siegel, and Preston Feinberg was listed as a co-owner and assistant to Tropicana President J. Kell Houssels.

Trop's showgirls bringing in 1960

In 1960, Tropicana debuted Lou Walters' "Folies Bergere - The Show That Made Paris Famous; at an estimated $800,000, for the main showroom. Folies consisted of a cast of 80 starring Kathy Barr/Janine Caire/Baron's Can Can Ballet/Dagenham Girl Pipers/Mme. Florence & Frederic Dancers/Phil Ford & Mimi Hines/Freddie Fronton & Co/Herman Kaye Orchestra/Oleg Koby/Maria Lopez/Jean-Louis/Nicki Martino/Margo & Chiverto/Moon Puppets/Bert & Ilonka Nagy/Lily Niagara/Johnny Puleo & His Harmonica Gang/Channing Pollock/Colette Riedinger/Ralph Young.

This was perhaps the most wildly successful gamble a resort took during this time. Shooting the bankroll, Houssel/Cannon/Walters imported the Gallic extravaganza from the banks of Seine to Vegas, borrowing and begging to bring this show to fruition. This gamble made the Tropicana a rival to her Strip sisters.

Showcase Lounge showcased Shecky Greene; Al De Paulis 4; Dubonnet Trio; and Los Nortenos.

Carol Channing was to appear in the Blue Room but bowed out saying nudes and jokes don't mix (how did she explain burlsque?)

The Showcase Lounge showcased Danny Casella, Carmen Cavallaro, Jerry Colonna, Denis & Rogers, Al De Paulis 4, Dubonnet Trio, Shecky Greene, Los Nortenos, Cindy O'Hara Trio, Perez Prado; and The Versatiles.

Also in 1960, Hollywood gave Tropicana a role in the movie Pepe starring Maurice Chevalier. The Folies Bergere dancers and mannequins were also cast in the movie.

In January of 1961 it was noted that Folies singer Danny Costello was a promising pitcher with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Costello encountered a freak accident, he broke his arm while executing a pitch, and thus ending his baseball future.

In February of 1961, the play-off softball game between the Sahara and Tropicana Hotels took place at Cragin Park. Autograph seekers were in heaven with many celebrities including The Vagabonds, Danny Costello, Babe Pier, and Henry Dunn for the Tropoicana; Freddie Bell and his Bellboys, Ray Anthony and his Bookends, George Rock Sextet, Jackie Jocko, Stewart Rose, Stan Irwin, Herb McDonald, Sonny Heath, Eddy Maleski, Jerry Stuckey, Joyce King, Barbara Mellen, Marie Smith, and Sylvester for the Sahara; along with Pepper Davis and Tony Reese from the Dunes; Roberta Linn from the Stardust; Hope Hathaway of the New Frontier. One casualty was noted though. Jerry Mayo almost cooked his hand playing "Hot Dog Chef". The Sahara was the loser to the Trop 18-10.

When Perez Prado opened at the Trop in April of 1961, he brought with him a new and original dance called the "La Chunga". It was a combination of Brazilian Cha Cha and a Spanish rhythm with African Drums.

In 1961, the Tropicana added the 18-hole Tropicana Golf Course and Country Club across the street and an additional 150 room wing.

Single rooms cost $14.00, and were decorated in a choice of French Provincial, Italian Renaissance, Far East or Drexel. Each room had a balcony with sliding glass panels. The Tropicana advertised dinners from $5.00. Foods included luscious Clams Casino for $3.00, pate maison at $.75, crab legs poulette for $4.00, breast of chicken montpesier with gnocchi for $4.25 and duckling a la orange for $5.00. Also added was the Tiffany Rolls-Royce which "special guests" could borrow to drive around the area.

In May of 1961, Lou Walters proudly displayed a beautiful trophy in his office given by the L.A. Shriners for staging their great show at the Vegas Convention Center; and Lola Albright (Peter Gunn TV show) and Bill Chadney were married at the resort.

Shecky Greene insisted on a certain clause in his contract, calling for a horse to be named after him. Thus, J.K. Housell named a steed "Shecky G." In September of 1961 it was noted that Shecky G. won his first race at Pomona Park.

In August of 1961, Folies showgirl Venus Christy made the cover of the Fabulous Las Vegas Magazine.

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.

During the last week in August, 1961, Ben Jaffe and J.K. Housells hosted a Club warming party for their Golf Course and Country Club. The new addition was set in the old Deep South tradition including a colonial mansion.

In August of 1961, Felicia Atkins signed on to play Serina in the Jerry Lewis movie Errand Boy.

In November of 1961, Trop showgirl Joyce Williams was named "Miss Radiation" by the crew of the nuclear submarine, U.S.S. Snook.

In December of 1961, employees listed included Bob Gans/Glen Jarrett - Casino; Lou Gammell, Sr. - Chief of Security; Harvey Diederick - Publicity/Advertising Director; Jackie Fields (former welter-weight champ) - Casino Executive.

During this year Tropicana showcased the Lou Walters Presents "New 1961 Folies Bergere" starring Felicia Atkins/Arnaut Brothers/Mme. Baron's Ballet/The Bogdadis/Janine Caire/Danny Costello/Dagenham Girl Pipers/Pat Ellis/Florence & Frederic Dancers/Ford & Hines/Herman Kaye Orchestra/Oleg Koby/Gloria Krieger/Claudine Longet/Maria Lopez/Pinky & Perky/Channing Pollock/Pompoff/Colette Riedinger/Johnny Puleo/Romano Brothers/Marvyn Roy/Ray Sinatra Orchestra/Pat Taylor/Thedy & Family/Ralph Young. This show was arranged by Mons. Paul Derval; Artistic Direction by Mons. Michel Gyarmathy, w/Music by Ray Sinatra.

The Showcase Lounge showcased The Allegros; Maria Andre w/Al De Paulis 4; Andrini Brothers; Norman Brown Sexette; Dubonnet Trio; Danny Cassella; Jerry Colonna; The Continentals; Denis/Rogers; Al DePaulis; Dubonnet Trio; Paul Goupil Quartet; Shecky Greene; The Instrumentalists; JoAnn Jordan; Mafalda Trio; Beverly Marshall; Cindy O'Hara Trio; Los Nortenos; Al De Paulis 4; Perez Prado w/Tita Marsell; Varel & Bailly w/Chanteurs de Paris; The Versatiles; and Bo Wagner Quartet.

It was noted that Shecky Green insisted upon a certain clause in his Tropicana contract. This specific paragraph called for a horse to be named fater him. J.K. Housell named a steed, "Shecky G" in honor of that contract.

In 1960, it was reported that Pollock had committed suicide so it was quite a surprise for people to see Pollock performing at the resort in 1961.

In 1962, Tropicana added another 116 room wing which surrounded the pool and gardens.

During this year the Tropicana Country Club Golf Course advertised 18 holes, par-70 course on 120 acres; night-lighted riving range, Colonial styled clubhouse offering a pro shop, dining room, cocktail lounge, coffee shop, gallery lounge, TV room, lockers and dressing rooms, and a professional staff directed by Milt Ross, Class A PGA.

During this year Theatre Restaurant showcased 1962 Folies Bergere starring Dio Dancers/Rob Murray/Les Cing Brutos/Jenny Astruc/Colette Bousquet/Lee Sharon/Linda Lombard/Los Chavales De Espana/Felicia Atkins/Pat Taylor/Carolyn Collette/Ugo Peliccia/Maria Eleno Roo/Joan Baron's Can Can Ballet/Florence & Frederic Dancers, and Ray Sinatra Orchestra.

The Showcase Lounge featured Russ Barr & his Orchestra; Al De Paulis 4; Dubonnet Trio; Shecky Green; Guido & Sylvia; Mafalda; Buddy Noble Trio; and The Vagabonds.

Felicia Atkins and Chris Chistianson was married on January 26, 1963 at the Little Church of the West. A reception was given in their honor by Mr. and Mrs. J.K. Houssels, Jr., at the Tropicana.

In April of 1963, Tracey Ahern and Ken Heberling were married at the Little Church of the West. Tracey was the 47th showgirl from the Folies Bergere to get married.

On July 6, 1963, J.K. Houssels was celebrating in a big way when he went to Hollywood Park and came out with $69,000 worth of winnings.

In August of 1963, Pastry Chef Laszlo Dorogi walked off with multiple awards during the Culinary Art Show staged by t he Food service Executives Association.

In November of 1963, it was announced that comedy pantomimist George Matson had become the first featured performer in the history of the Folies Bergere to be held over from one year to the next.

In 1963, the Theatre Restaurant featured "All New 1963 Folies Bergere, w/Executive Producer Tony Azzi, Artistic Director Michel Gyarmathy, and starring The Alcettys/Felicia Atkins/Christian Cardin/The Carsonys/The Three Charlivels/Les Compagnons de La Chansons/Allen Conroy/Florence & Frederic Dancers/The Ghezzis/Don Hedden/Nancy Kilgas/Mariandre/George Matson/Les Olympiades/Palermo & Phillips/Lena Pastor/Ugo Pellicia/Roger Stefani/Silvana/Charlene Rey/Ray Sinatra Orchestra/Pat Taylor/Tropicana Danders/Elise Vallee/Corinne Vial/Bob Williams.

The Showcase Lounge showcased Jerry Colonna Revue featuring Mary Kaye Trio/Buddy Noble Trio/ Topnotchers/Joyce King & Patty Cairns/The Vagabonds/Babe Pier/Guy Landis Quartet/Dubonnet Trio/Paul Gilbert/Al DePaulis 4. Also showcased were Russ Barr & Orchestra; Danny Cassella; Denis & Rogers; Dubonnet Trio; Shecky Greene; The Hi Los; The Kings Four; Arthur Lyman; Vaughn Monroe; Al De Paulis 4; Perez Prado; Harold Quinn; Gene Sheldon; and The Vagabonds.

Frankie Ross left the Mary Kaye Trio temporarily as his wife was involved in a near fatal accident in San Bernardino, CA.

In October of 1964, the Children's Hospital Ball asked for a donation for a door prize. They were surprised when John Garber at the Trop gave a three night, four day stay at the resort.

Henry Dunn, formerly of the famous vaudeville team of Cross and Dunn hosted at the resort. Dunn left San Francisco in 1957. Dunn's last stage appearance was in San Francisco at Bal Tabarin and Bimbo's. One of his greatest claims to fame is his discovery of Tony Martin's voice.

A Tropicana Executive and twice welterweight champ was Jackie Fields. Fields won the world's titled from Joe Dundee in 1929 and lost it to Young Jack Thompson in 1931. He won it back the following year from Lou Brouillard. In all, Fields had 98 professional fights, won 90, drew two and lost six, including one KO lost to Jimmy McLarnin. Fields who was born in Chicago, moved to Vegas in 1959. His wife Didi was a former ballerina, and he had a 17 year old daughter Michelle.

In 1964, Theatre Restaurant showcased Folies Bergere starring George Matson, Bob Williams, Les Olympiades, Les Charlivels, Palermo & Phillips, Vivian Clemons, Colette Riedinger, Christian Cardin, Nancy Kilga, Allen Controy, Brunetto, Ugo Pellico, Don Hedden, Felicia Atkins, Monica Lind, Joyce Williams, Jose Dornini, Florence & Frederic Dancers, Tropicana Dancers, Ray Sinatra Orchestra, and a cast of 80. Peter Gennaro was hired to create and direct the dance routines for the 1965 Folies Bergere.

The Showcase Lounge showcased Jerry Colonna, Denis/Rogers, Al De Paulis 4, Dubonnet Trio, Nellie Golette, Arthur Lyman, Prez Prado, Gene Sheldon, The Vagabonds with Mel Young & Bobbie Boyle, and Pat Yankee & The Giants. During this year, it was announced that Folies star Colette Riedinger became engaged to Tropicana co-owner Sidney Saltz, and Monica Lind starred on the To Tell the Truth TV show.

La Fontaine Lounge showcased Gloria Tracy Trio.

In the beginning of 1965, The Taste of Paris, opened at the Tropicana Shopping Center. Only after a month from its opening Guy Pascal was not only busy with 24 hours of dealing with the retail trade, he was catering to many restaurants in the city including Mayfair Markets.

The Mary Kaye Trio was visibly moved by the audience's reaction when they closed the Theatre Lounge on January 12, 1965. Not only did this final performance close their Tropicana tenure, it also wrote the end to the career of the trio.

Patrons at the resort were thrilled when they got a chance to see Walt Disney at the resort. Big shots at the resort were giving Disney a tour of the resort.

In February of 1965, Tropicana employee Henry Dunn died from a heart attack.

On June 12, 1965, Tibor Rudas became Entertainment Director of the Theatre Lounge. Then in August, Maynard Sloate was named Entertainment Director of the Theatre Lounge. In September Larry Grayson was named Entertainment Coordinator of the Blue Room.

On August 15, 1965, Folies Bergere yielded its 55th showgirl bride when England's Elizabeth Davidson married Richard Roper, a stage hand at the report

The resort announced that booking top names was reinstated in the Blue Room, which was the Lounge, beginning September 4, 1965. The opening show comprised of Mel Torme, Jerry Lester and Si Zentner. Also scheduled to appear included Count Basie, Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, Guy Lombardo, Julie London, Johnnie Ray, Joe Williams, and Roger Williams.

On October 8, 1965, Folies Bergere had a special benefit show for 9 year old Debbie and 5 year old Danny whose mother, Folies dancer Yvonne Spach met with a tragic death.

During 1965, the Theatre Restaurant showcased New 1965 Folies Bergere starring The Black Theatre of Prague/Dick Albers/Francis Brunn/Dior Dancers/Les Fredianis/Kuban Cossacks/Josette Grisy/Ray Sinatra Orchestra/Gus Augspurg & His Girlfriends/Liliane Montevechchi/Josette Grisy/Vassili Sulich/Nikki Bardy/Florence-Frederic Dancers/cast of 100.

Gus Augsburg & his "Girlfriends" appeared on Jack Kogan's TV show. Kogan didn't have any concerns about the baboon but the monkey ran him off the set so she could play with the KSHO-TV mascot kitten.

The Blue Room showcased Judi Kelly, Eddie de Santis Trio, Art Mooney Orchestra, The Three Cheers, Eddie De Santis Trio, Benny Goodman & his Orchestra, Bobby Wick & Ray Brand.

The La Fontaine Lounge showcased Vic Garcia, Gloria Tracey Trio, and Wanieta Vess.

The New Gourmet Room showcased Julian Foorman, Dubonnet Trio, Al De Paulis 4, Rhythm Masters, and Livin Dolls.

The Theatre-Lounge showcased Revues International - Tibor Rudas Productions w/Lorrae Desmond/Duo Leslie/Mikey; Manila Musicale w/The Paulettes/Pete Cruzado/Ben Valero; Fiesta Espanola w/Marcelo and his Flamenco Dancers; and Pardon My French produced by Tibor Rudas w/Elizabeth & Collins/Joan & Paul Sharratt/Iran-Bahador/The Two Leslies/Dick Weels/Don Rago Orchestra. Also showcased were Dubonnet Trio, Al Morgan, and Al De Paulis 4.

In 1965, the Philippines voted Pete Cruzado the top radio, TV, and movie personality.

During the Gloria Tracey Trio 14 month appearance at the La Fontaine Lounge, they appeared on Regis Philbin's TV show.

Gus Augspurg and his "girlfriends" went over to Nellis Air Force Base on December 18, 1965 to entertain the children of the Variety Day Nursery School. The kids loved the show.

The Max Waterman and the management and personnel of the resort took our a holiday ad in the Fabulous Las Vegas magazine.