Our January meeting will take place at The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View on Monday, January 16 2012.
Our guest speaker will be Stu Michaels.
RSVPs for the meeting are required. It's simple - just call Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
December Meeting Recap
At the last Las Vegas Media Group luncheon of 2011 we had another large attendance with 44 people! Once again, I need to remind everyone that RSVPs are important, as I called in for only 35. Luckily, our server, Patty, had the foresight to ensure there was enough food so no one went without. As we continue to grow, however, we can’t always count on that so PLEASE email or call in your RSVP. Remember, we meet EVERY THIRD MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH. Put the date on your calendar so you have a reminder to let us know if you are coming to the lunch.
Our group was surprised with the arrival of LVMG founder, Frank Mitrani. It was so good to have Frank present; we miss him as he now lives in Kanab, Utah and is not able to be with us often. Frank, you look great and we hope to see you more often!
Our speaker was Mr. Rick Rico, manager of Palm Mortuary. He shared some interesting stories. See an excerpt of his talk about his life and career on You Tube: http://youtu.be/WLpjTiGw4Po .
Our giveaway was once again fun-John Getter provided two of his books, Moonwalkers: to the moon, untold stories of the space race.
Last month it was new author Betty Bunch, who gave a few of her recently published books, High Heels and Headresses: memoirs of a vintage Vegas showgirl to be raffled off. Betty brought her books to this meeting for purchase. For the group she sold her books for $20.00. Let me know if any of you are interested in purchasing member books. Soon I hope to have all members’ books (and even their historic photos) for sale on our website (lasvegasmediagroup.org).
Another promotion goes to our MC Rich Friedland. His Fame Game Show is performing at Choices Pub and Showroom on Thursday, January 25 at 9:00 PM.
Happy Birthday to:
Carey Burke
Jewel Mayhew
Jim Marsh
Lee Mcdonald
Bob Shawhan
Here is hoping you all have safe and wonderful holiday celebrations with your family and friends.
Our next meeting is, Monday January 16. The speaker scheduled is Stu Michaels.
Our group was surprised with the arrival of LVMG founder, Frank Mitrani. It was so good to have Frank present; we miss him as he now lives in Kanab, Utah and is not able to be with us often. Frank, you look great and we hope to see you more often!
Our speaker was Mr. Rick Rico, manager of Palm Mortuary. He shared some interesting stories. See an excerpt of his talk about his life and career on You Tube: http://youtu.be/WLpjTiGw4Po .
Our giveaway was once again fun-John Getter provided two of his books, Moonwalkers: to the moon, untold stories of the space race.
Last month it was new author Betty Bunch, who gave a few of her recently published books, High Heels and Headresses: memoirs of a vintage Vegas showgirl to be raffled off. Betty brought her books to this meeting for purchase. For the group she sold her books for $20.00. Let me know if any of you are interested in purchasing member books. Soon I hope to have all members’ books (and even their historic photos) for sale on our website (lasvegasmediagroup.org).
Another promotion goes to our MC Rich Friedland. His Fame Game Show is performing at Choices Pub and Showroom on Thursday, January 25 at 9:00 PM.
Happy Birthday to:
Carey Burke
Jewel Mayhew
Jim Marsh
Lee Mcdonald
Bob Shawhan
Here is hoping you all have safe and wonderful holiday celebrations with your family and friends.
Our next meeting is, Monday January 16. The speaker scheduled is Stu Michaels.
See you then!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
December Meeting Reminder
HELLO EVERYONE! Santa and I would like to remind you about our next Las Vegas Media Group lunch meeting. Next Monday, December 19th, we will once again meet at The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View.
This month we have the floor to ourselves. No speaker is scheduled so we have a chance to catch up with one another, something we haven't had much chance to do in a while. Maybe we'll even have a surprise visitor!
So, make your RSVPs to me as soon as possible and I'll phone in the head count. Lunch begins at 11:30 am and cost is only $15.00.
See you on Monday.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Las Vegas Comedian Sammy Shore
Our guest speaker was comedian Sammy Shore giving us a taste
of his genius with stories of his work in Las Vegas, as an opening act for
Elvis Presley, and gave us his take on reality television. He had everyone in
the group laughing, especially our own Carey Burke who took the brunt of his
jokes!
of his genius with stories of his work in Las Vegas, as an opening act for
Elvis Presley, and gave us his take on reality television. He had everyone in
the group laughing, especially our own Carey Burke who took the brunt of his
jokes!
Monday, December 5, 2011
December Meeting
Our next meeting will be Monday, December 19, the last meeting of the year. There will be no guest speaker in attendance, giving the group a chance to catch up with one another before the holidays. As usual lunch will be delicious and filling.
Reservations are required by calling Lisa at (702) 245-9206, or emaling gioiaacres1988@gmail.com.
Lunch is $15.00. The location is the Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View. If you know where the Gallery of History (was?) located and/or The Cellar; then you know where it is. Mariana'a Grocery Store on one side Kaplan College on the other.
There is a handicap entrance through the alley between the college and the Wedding Room. The phone number for any questions or directions is 362-6712.
Reservations are required by calling Lisa at (702) 245-9206, or emaling gioiaacres1988@gmail.com.
Lunch is $15.00. The location is the Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View. If you know where the Gallery of History (was?) located and/or The Cellar; then you know where it is. Mariana'a Grocery Store on one side Kaplan College on the other.
There is a handicap entrance through the alley between the college and the Wedding Room. The phone number for any questions or directions is 362-6712.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Las Vegas Media Group is now on Facebook!
The Las Vegas Media Group is joining the social network trend! We are now on Facebook, as are several of our members. Now we can get even more exposure for this great organization. In addition to announcing upcoming meetings and providing meeting recaps, our Facebook page will share the photographs and videos of our presenters.
So, if you are on Facebook or have been considering joining, please click on https://www.facebook.com/pages/Las-Vegas-Media-Group/283369248369856 and "LIKE" us.
So, if you are on Facebook or have been considering joining, please click on https://www.facebook.com/pages/Las-Vegas-Media-Group/283369248369856 and "LIKE" us.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
October Meeting Recap
Meeting Recap for October 17, 2011
Monday was another great meeting of the Las Vegas Media Group. There was lots of information to share such as upcoming events.
Old Time Reunion Dinner
Thalia Dondero and Jim Marsh provided information on the Old Time Reunion taking place at the Orleans on Sunday, October 23rd. The event starts at 5:00 pm. Tickets are $45.00. RESERVATIONS will be taken up until Thursday, October 20th so make sure you get your name on the list. Here’s a website for more information: http://oldtimereunion.com/sign-up/ I am told they will take last-minute walk-ins, but to ensure there’s enough food for everyone, please put your name on the list.
Goldstroms’s Classic Car Show
Rollie provided a flier on the 10th annual car show taking place on Saturday, November 5th. It starts at 8:00 am. For more information check out the website at http://nostalgiastreetrods.com/
Dear friend Murray Westgate could sure use some cheering up as he’s experiencing some health issues right now. I bet he’d LOVE to hear from you, so send him an email at mwestworld@embarqmail.com and say hello!
October Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Florence Mayhew, Joe Thomson, and Bruce Langson!
If your birthday is not on my list, please send it to me! We want to send you best wishes during your birthday month
We had some new people attending the meeting; it’s always great to see new faces in the crowd. One attendee, Stu Michaels, shared that he has a book coming out. It’s called You Can’t Make This Up. Find out more at his website: http://youcantmakethisupbook.com/tag/stu-michaels/
Speaker of the Month
Our very own Don Payne provided the entertainment by sharing his career history for the Las Vegas News Bureau. It was a wonderful talk and it is always great to hear from our very own members who have amazing stories to share. I received an email
remarking on Don’s talk, “I was surprised to hear how big a job Don Paine had with the News Bureau, and how modest he was
in his presentation.” Great job, Don – and thank you for taking the time to share with us!
Next Meeting
Speaking of member stories – next meeting, November 21st we will hear from Jim Marsh. Jim has some great tales to tell so be sure and RSVP so we can have a seat waiting for you at the next meeting.
Nevada History Project
As many of you know, I have requested that my Nevada history students interview you individually for a project. Unfortunately, I did not have enough students for a class this semester so the project is postponed until spring. I still have the names of those that have agreed to be interviewed, but need more so if you are interested, or would like more information, just contact me at gioiaacres1988@gmail.com or 702 245-9206.
See you all in November! Boy, the days are going by quickly!
Monday was another great meeting of the Las Vegas Media Group. There was lots of information to share such as upcoming events.
Old Time Reunion Dinner
Thalia Dondero and Jim Marsh provided information on the Old Time Reunion taking place at the Orleans on Sunday, October 23rd. The event starts at 5:00 pm. Tickets are $45.00. RESERVATIONS will be taken up until Thursday, October 20th so make sure you get your name on the list. Here’s a website for more information: http://oldtimereunion.com/sign-up/ I am told they will take last-minute walk-ins, but to ensure there’s enough food for everyone, please put your name on the list.
Goldstroms’s Classic Car Show
Rollie provided a flier on the 10th annual car show taking place on Saturday, November 5th. It starts at 8:00 am. For more information check out the website at http://nostalgiastreetrods.com/
Dear friend Murray Westgate could sure use some cheering up as he’s experiencing some health issues right now. I bet he’d LOVE to hear from you, so send him an email at mwestworld@embarqmail.com and say hello!
October Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Florence Mayhew, Joe Thomson, and Bruce Langson!
If your birthday is not on my list, please send it to me! We want to send you best wishes during your birthday month
We had some new people attending the meeting; it’s always great to see new faces in the crowd. One attendee, Stu Michaels, shared that he has a book coming out. It’s called You Can’t Make This Up. Find out more at his website: http://youcantmakethisupbook.com/tag/stu-michaels/
Speaker of the Month
Our very own Don Payne provided the entertainment by sharing his career history for the Las Vegas News Bureau. It was a wonderful talk and it is always great to hear from our very own members who have amazing stories to share. I received an email
remarking on Don’s talk, “I was surprised to hear how big a job Don Paine had with the News Bureau, and how modest he was
in his presentation.” Great job, Don – and thank you for taking the time to share with us!
Next Meeting
Speaking of member stories – next meeting, November 21st we will hear from Jim Marsh. Jim has some great tales to tell so be sure and RSVP so we can have a seat waiting for you at the next meeting.
Nevada History Project
As many of you know, I have requested that my Nevada history students interview you individually for a project. Unfortunately, I did not have enough students for a class this semester so the project is postponed until spring. I still have the names of those that have agreed to be interviewed, but need more so if you are interested, or would like more information, just contact me at gioiaacres1988@gmail.com or 702 245-9206.
See you all in November! Boy, the days are going by quickly!
November Meeting
Our next meeting will take place on Monday, November 21 (always the 3rd Monday of the month). Member Jim Marsh, long-time Las Vegas businessman is our speaker. Jim is going to have some wonderful stories to share.
RSVPs for the meeting are required. It's simple - just call Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
See you there!
RSVPs for the meeting are required. It's simple - just call Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
See you there!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
September Meeting
Our September meeting will take place at The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View on Monday, September 19, 2011.
The speaker this month will be Sammy Shore, who is a stand-up comedienne, who performs in nightclubs and casino's across the U.S.
Shore was also handpicked by Colonel Parker to be Elvis's opening act during his 1969-1972 comeback tour in Las Vegas. He would then become known as "the man who made Elvis laugh."
Meeting begins at 11:30 am. RSVP's are required.
For more details and to RSVP, send an email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
The speaker this month will be Sammy Shore, who is a stand-up comedienne, who performs in nightclubs and casino's across the U.S.
Shore was also handpicked by Colonel Parker to be Elvis's opening act during his 1969-1972 comeback tour in Las Vegas. He would then become known as "the man who made Elvis laugh."
Meeting begins at 11:30 am. RSVP's are required.
For more details and to RSVP, send an email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
August Meeting
Our August meeting will take place at The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View on Monday, August 15, 2011.
The speaker for this month is Mr. Bob Deiro, long-time Las Vegas businessman and former pilot for none other than Howard Hughes. Mr. Deiro has some great stories he's going to share with the group. This is sure to be another one of those meetings where we hear some great Las Vegas history right from "the horse's mouth" as they say.
Meeting begins at 11:30 am. RSVP's are required.
For more details and to RSVP, send an email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
The speaker for this month is Mr. Bob Deiro, long-time Las Vegas businessman and former pilot for none other than Howard Hughes. Mr. Deiro has some great stories he's going to share with the group. This is sure to be another one of those meetings where we hear some great Las Vegas history right from "the horse's mouth" as they say.
Meeting begins at 11:30 am. RSVP's are required.
For more details and to RSVP, send an email to lasvegasmediagroup@gmail.com
July Meeting Recap
Wow. What a turnout for the meeting today at the Railroad Pass Casino. We had 48 in attendance! Thanks to all of you that made the trek all the way out to the edge of Boulder City for this lunch meeting. I’m sure each one of you will say that it was well worth the long drive. Thanks go to Curt Thompson, Pat Malloy, and the entire staff of the Conductor’s Room who provided us with an amazing lunch of salad, steak sandwich and strawberry shortcake. Curt was our speaker, giving us a brief history of the casino (opened in 1931 and celebrating its 80th birthday on August 1st), a few great stories about his early Las Vegas life, and gave us a tour of both the Heritage Museum and the vault containing a safe put in place in 1931 and not opened for at least two decades. No one can recall if the safe is empty or not, and for the time being, Curt and his team want to keep the mystery alive. There were so many new faces today, as well as many folks who don’t get a chance to visit us too often. I bounced around to take as many pictures as I could.
I had six copies of the DVD containing the late Rex Bell’s talk back in March. They are $1.00 each so if you wish to have one, just let me know and I’ll get one to you at the next meeting. And for all of you who might be interested in attending, Mr. Bell’s service takes place this Saturday (July 23rd) at the South Point from noon-3 pm. Thanks so much to Cork Proctor for the fantastic job he is doing on booking speakers for us. It is through his great contacts that we have so many great ones. Make sure you let Cork know how much you appreciate his efforts. We have some surprises for you in the near future, so stay tuned!
New Name
As you know, we’ve been talking about giving our group a new, updated name. We aren’t just a group of “Old Timers” who worked as journalists and photographers any more. We are growing so much and include in our ranks entertainers, hobby and professional historians, life-long Nevada residents, and members both young and not-so-young – we are quite an eclectic group whose main goal is to keep our state history alive and remembered. Curt Thompson offered a great name for our group for your consideration – I think it needs a little more attached to it, but maybe I’m wrong. He thought of The Founders, because, as he explained, this group of people really did “found” Las Vegas through their media and entertainment efforts, and now with our monthly meetings we continue the legacy of recalling the history. Why not weigh in on the name and tell us what you think?
Jane Ann Morrison Column
Look for a mention of our group in Jane Ann Morrison’s column this Thursday! Thanks, Jane Ann, for coming to our meeting.
Rex Bell
I had six copies of the DVD containing the late Rex Bell’s talk back in March. They are $1.00 each so if you wish to have one, just let me know and I’ll get one to you at the next meeting. And for all of you who might be interested in attending, Mr. Bell’s service takes place this Saturday (July 23rd) at the South Point from noon-3 pm. Thanks so much to Cork Proctor for the fantastic job he is doing on booking speakers for us. It is through his great contacts that we have so many great ones. Make sure you let Cork know how much you appreciate his efforts. We have some surprises for you in the near future, so stay tuned!
New Name
As you know, we’ve been talking about giving our group a new, updated name. We aren’t just a group of “Old Timers” who worked as journalists and photographers any more. We are growing so much and include in our ranks entertainers, hobby and professional historians, life-long Nevada residents, and members both young and not-so-young – we are quite an eclectic group whose main goal is to keep our state history alive and remembered. Curt Thompson offered a great name for our group for your consideration – I think it needs a little more attached to it, but maybe I’m wrong. He thought of The Founders, because, as he explained, this group of people really did “found” Las Vegas through their media and entertainment efforts, and now with our monthly meetings we continue the legacy of recalling the history. Why not weigh in on the name and tell us what you think?
Jane Ann Morrison Column
Look for a mention of our group in Jane Ann Morrison’s column this Thursday! Thanks, Jane Ann, for coming to our meeting.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
July Meeting
Next month we’re going on a field trip! The July meeting will be held at the historic Railroad Pass Casino, which is the oldest existing hotel in the country. There will be a 20-30 min. presentation on the history of the Railroad Pass Casino, followed by a tour of the Heritage Room Museum. The 80th anniversary of the Railroad Pass Casino will be Aug. 1. Everybody in attendance to the luncheon will receive a special commemorative gift to mark the occasion. Should be a fun and fascinating meeting; hope to see you all there. RSVP’s are required, email Lisa at gioiaacres1988@gmail.com.
The address to the Casino is 2800 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson NV, 89002. Lunch will take place in the Conductor’s Room
The address to the Casino is 2800 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson NV, 89002. Lunch will take place in the Conductor’s Room
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
June Meeting
Next meeting is on June 20th at 11:30 AM.
The location is The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View. If you know where the Gallery of History is (was?) located and/or The Cellar, then you know where it is; Mariana’s Grocery Store on one side and Kaplan College on the other.
There is a handicap entrance through the alley between the college and The Wedding Room. The phone number for any questions or directions is 362-6712.
There is a speaker that is sure to please everyone. Lunch is $15.00 and the food is said to be great! R.S.V.P.s required. Contact Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email gioiaacres1988@gmail.com
The location is The Wedding Room at 3601 West Sahara on the southeast corner of Valley View. If you know where the Gallery of History is (was?) located and/or The Cellar, then you know where it is; Mariana’s Grocery Store on one side and Kaplan College on the other.
There is a handicap entrance through the alley between the college and The Wedding Room. The phone number for any questions or directions is 362-6712.
There is a speaker that is sure to please everyone. Lunch is $15.00 and the food is said to be great! R.S.V.P.s required. Contact Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email gioiaacres1988@gmail.com
Ghost Hunters Share Their Experiences
Do you believe in ghosts? Maybe after today’s Media Group luncheon you do now. We had a great presentation today. Jim Marsh knows of three guys that look for paranormal activity – you know, the presence of those that have passed from this earth – and they came to share some of their experiences with our group. John Cushman, John Pilosi, and Justin Cimock showed video of the abandoned Belmont courthouse, the Goldfield Hotel, and the living quarters of Howard Hughes. It was fascinating and intriguing and we really had a great time contemplating their evidence. Here are some pictures of their equipment and video footage.
It was another record breaker as we had 43 people in attendance. That will teach me to call in the head count low at 30-35! Remember, when you RSVP you are guaranteed a meal!
We had some great give-a-ways; thanks to Carey Burke and Milt Bozanic. Remember, too, if you have anything you can donate, it is always appreciated.
Okay, that’s it for now. Next month Cork says our speaker is Norm Johnson who will share his stories about the Mint 400 Road Race and other great stuff. Mark your calendars for our next meeting: June 20.
Now, enjoy two more pictures I took today. I couldn’t resist – Thalia and Helen look so great and try and guess who’s shoes these are!
It was another record breaker as we had 43 people in attendance. That will teach me to call in the head count low at 30-35! Remember, when you RSVP you are guaranteed a meal!
We had some great give-a-ways; thanks to Carey Burke and Milt Bozanic. Remember, too, if you have anything you can donate, it is always appreciated.
Okay, that’s it for now. Next month Cork says our speaker is Norm Johnson who will share his stories about the Mint 400 Road Race and other great stuff. Mark your calendars for our next meeting: June 20.
Now, enjoy two more pictures I took today. I couldn’t resist – Thalia and Helen look so great and try and guess who’s shoes these are!
Monday, March 21, 2011
April Meeting Information
Monday, April 18, 2011, 11:30 AM
Guest speaker is Las Vegas Review Journal columnist, Jane Ann Morrison.
R.S.V.P.s required. Contact Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email gioiaacres@earthlink.net
Guest speaker is Las Vegas Review Journal columnist, Jane Ann Morrison.
R.S.V.P.s required. Contact Lisa at 702 245-9206 or email gioiaacres@earthlink.net
Meeting Recap for March 21, 2011
Another excellent lunch meeting! We had a full crowd; 43 people came to hear Mr. Rex “Tony” Bell, Jr. Rex shared
memories of his mom and dad, Hollywood movie actors Rex Bell and Clara Bow, as well as his experiences as the Clark County District Attorney. Members of our group had lots of great questions to ask and some of the answers by Rex were really enlightening. Soon you will be able to hear parts of the presentation on the website.
Rex was able to reconnect with several grammar school chums: John Ullom, Gretchen Payne, and Rollie Gibbs. It was really great to see such long-standing friends get together and reminisce. Who says Las Vegas is a transitory town?
We paid special tribute to the memory of Dick Taylor, the most recent member of our group to leave us. Rich asked for a moment of silence to remember Dick.
A few members, Bo Boisvert and Frank Valeri, brought in photos from their working days. What an AMAZING collection they both have. Neither one would let me take the pictures home to scan, but they promised me they’d make some copies. Thalia Dondero also shared with me some photo copies of the Helldorado Rodeo from around the 1950s.
I’m hoping the rest of our group will bring in their old photos. I will scan and return them, I promise. I just think it’s important to save them.
Speaking of Hellorado Days, three of our members are very involved in the organization and the event, which will take place during the months of April and May. Rollie Gibbs is once again serving on the Board and Jim Marsh and Thalia Dondero are serving as judges.
Our next meeting is Monday, April 18th. Our speaker is Jane Ann Morrison, columnist
for the Review Journal. Hope to see all of you then. In the meantime, Happy Spring!
memories of his mom and dad, Hollywood movie actors Rex Bell and Clara Bow, as well as his experiences as the Clark County District Attorney. Members of our group had lots of great questions to ask and some of the answers by Rex were really enlightening. Soon you will be able to hear parts of the presentation on the website.
Rex was able to reconnect with several grammar school chums: John Ullom, Gretchen Payne, and Rollie Gibbs. It was really great to see such long-standing friends get together and reminisce. Who says Las Vegas is a transitory town?
We paid special tribute to the memory of Dick Taylor, the most recent member of our group to leave us. Rich asked for a moment of silence to remember Dick.
A few members, Bo Boisvert and Frank Valeri, brought in photos from their working days. What an AMAZING collection they both have. Neither one would let me take the pictures home to scan, but they promised me they’d make some copies. Thalia Dondero also shared with me some photo copies of the Helldorado Rodeo from around the 1950s.
I’m hoping the rest of our group will bring in their old photos. I will scan and return them, I promise. I just think it’s important to save them.
Speaking of Hellorado Days, three of our members are very involved in the organization and the event, which will take place during the months of April and May. Rollie Gibbs is once again serving on the Board and Jim Marsh and Thalia Dondero are serving as judges.
Our next meeting is Monday, April 18th. Our speaker is Jane Ann Morrison, columnist
for the Review Journal. Hope to see all of you then. In the meantime, Happy Spring!
Friday, February 25, 2011
A Serendipitous Meeting I Will Never Regret
I never regret anything I’ve done in life, although there are a few things I shake my head at and say, “What was I thinking?” The reason I have no regrets is that no matter what I’ve done, there seems to have been a purpose and a lesson behind it. I’m the ultimate optimist and have gone through life seeing things just that way. How I met the members of the Las Vegas “Old Timers” Media Group is just such an example of a silver lining from a dark cloud, or period, in my life.
In 2001 my husband and I had just returned to Las Vegas after trying to make a go of it in a small, rural western New York village. I had wanted badly to return to small town life, to live where neighbors actually made eye contact with you and fresh produce could be purchased from the local farm down the road. It was a great experience – for the first couple of years. By the third winter that lasted six months, I was ready, as was my husband, to head back to the desert.
Luckily, we had the wisdom to rent out our home so we had a place to move back to. My husband had maintained contact with his former employer so, another spot of luck, he was rehired. For me, however, I went months without employment. Through a friend-of-a-friend, the way Las Vegas used to hire good employees, I received an invitation to interview at Jackie Gaughan’s downtown casino, The Plaza. First I was offered a position as Food and Beverage manager. I turned it down as one, I had no experience in that field and, two, I didn’t want to work in a smoky, old casino. While I thought I’d have to keep looking I received another offer from the Plaza, “How would you like to be Convention Manager?”
That position didn’t sound so bad; after all I knew how to plan and throw a good party. As I had no other offers pending and the pay wasn’t too bad, I reluctantly took the job. I lasted all of nine months, but while there I met some amazing people, both employees and clients. Frank Mitrani and his group were one of my favorites.
The “Old Timers” as they like to call themselves have been meeting for over a decade. When they came to me at the Plaza, they were looking for a place to hold their monthly meeting where they could eat and socialize for a price they could afford. It took a little convincing to my bosses, but I was able to book the group for the price of meals alone. It was during their monthly meetings that I came to know Frank and become familiar with the group.
I was drawn to find out more because I was (and still am) a “wanna-be-writer” and the group name, Las Vegas Media Group, seemed like a good place to start my future career. I was a little mistaken, however, as the members were retired from the world of journalism and weren’t in much of a position to further my career aspirations. But, they were really nice people who liked to get together and reminisce about Las Vegas history so I always stuck around to listen.
Frank never intended his quasi-club to be exclusive and anyone expressing an interest in history was welcome to join them at their meetings. He promptly placed me on his email list. From then on I received a monthly reminder about the day, time and place of the meetings.
Sometime in 2002 I left the Plaza, found a few other great opportunities that led me in the direction of the career I enjoy today – that of historian, college professor, and writer. While on that path I had little time to visit my old friends at the Las Vegas Media Group luncheons, but would make an appearance every now and then.
When, in 2008 I was hired to conduct a research history of the Spring Mountains, I knew just the place I needed to go. I went to a lunch meeting, was welcomed like an old lost friend, and received great leads on little-known stories about the history of Mt. Charleston to make my final report a rich one. After that re-acquaintance, I have been to almost every meeting since.
I see in this group of men and women, professional and hobby historians and long-time Las Vegans, a rich, diverse treasure trove of knowledge. I realize that so many of their members have passed on. Many of them are in the winter of their lives and when it is their time to say “So long,” with them goes their stories, recollections, and memories. It is my goal to gather and preserve those that remain. Each and every meeting is full of friends sharing their stories over a good meal and among good company. What more could a girl ask for?
No, I have no regrets because I am wise enough to know that every life experience is an opportunity. I know that taking that job that I didn’t really fit into was just my luck. I was in the right place at the right time and came away with a lifetime of great friends.
Now that I’m a member, I never really agreed with the group referring to themselves as “Old Timers” because I didn’t see myself as one. I suspect that down the road I will feel like I fit right in with that description – with no regrets whatsoever.
In 2001 my husband and I had just returned to Las Vegas after trying to make a go of it in a small, rural western New York village. I had wanted badly to return to small town life, to live where neighbors actually made eye contact with you and fresh produce could be purchased from the local farm down the road. It was a great experience – for the first couple of years. By the third winter that lasted six months, I was ready, as was my husband, to head back to the desert.
Luckily, we had the wisdom to rent out our home so we had a place to move back to. My husband had maintained contact with his former employer so, another spot of luck, he was rehired. For me, however, I went months without employment. Through a friend-of-a-friend, the way Las Vegas used to hire good employees, I received an invitation to interview at Jackie Gaughan’s downtown casino, The Plaza. First I was offered a position as Food and Beverage manager. I turned it down as one, I had no experience in that field and, two, I didn’t want to work in a smoky, old casino. While I thought I’d have to keep looking I received another offer from the Plaza, “How would you like to be Convention Manager?”
That position didn’t sound so bad; after all I knew how to plan and throw a good party. As I had no other offers pending and the pay wasn’t too bad, I reluctantly took the job. I lasted all of nine months, but while there I met some amazing people, both employees and clients. Frank Mitrani and his group were one of my favorites.
The “Old Timers” as they like to call themselves have been meeting for over a decade. When they came to me at the Plaza, they were looking for a place to hold their monthly meeting where they could eat and socialize for a price they could afford. It took a little convincing to my bosses, but I was able to book the group for the price of meals alone. It was during their monthly meetings that I came to know Frank and become familiar with the group.
I was drawn to find out more because I was (and still am) a “wanna-be-writer” and the group name, Las Vegas Media Group, seemed like a good place to start my future career. I was a little mistaken, however, as the members were retired from the world of journalism and weren’t in much of a position to further my career aspirations. But, they were really nice people who liked to get together and reminisce about Las Vegas history so I always stuck around to listen.
Frank never intended his quasi-club to be exclusive and anyone expressing an interest in history was welcome to join them at their meetings. He promptly placed me on his email list. From then on I received a monthly reminder about the day, time and place of the meetings.
Sometime in 2002 I left the Plaza, found a few other great opportunities that led me in the direction of the career I enjoy today – that of historian, college professor, and writer. While on that path I had little time to visit my old friends at the Las Vegas Media Group luncheons, but would make an appearance every now and then.
When, in 2008 I was hired to conduct a research history of the Spring Mountains, I knew just the place I needed to go. I went to a lunch meeting, was welcomed like an old lost friend, and received great leads on little-known stories about the history of Mt. Charleston to make my final report a rich one. After that re-acquaintance, I have been to almost every meeting since.
I see in this group of men and women, professional and hobby historians and long-time Las Vegans, a rich, diverse treasure trove of knowledge. I realize that so many of their members have passed on. Many of them are in the winter of their lives and when it is their time to say “So long,” with them goes their stories, recollections, and memories. It is my goal to gather and preserve those that remain. Each and every meeting is full of friends sharing their stories over a good meal and among good company. What more could a girl ask for?
No, I have no regrets because I am wise enough to know that every life experience is an opportunity. I know that taking that job that I didn’t really fit into was just my luck. I was in the right place at the right time and came away with a lifetime of great friends.
Now that I’m a member, I never really agreed with the group referring to themselves as “Old Timers” because I didn’t see myself as one. I suspect that down the road I will feel like I fit right in with that description – with no regrets whatsoever.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Meeting Recap
We had a great turnout today for our lunch meeting. In Rich Friedland’s place, Cork Proctor took the helm and read our announcements and introduced our speaker, Michael Green, history professor and author. His topic, Las Vegas Myths Revealed (I took artistic license on that title!) was a hit; he had some great stories to share. I will get the audio up on the website soon so those of you that missed it can listen. Thanks, Mike for sharing your knowledge and stories.
Mike’s talk prompted many of our members to share some of their own stories and myths, as well as ask for answers to some they may have heard.
We had a few new faces today: Ms. Peggy King, wife of Las Vegas entertainer, Sonny King. I have her email address so Peggy will be sure to attend future meetings. Also in attendance was James and Gina Marie Slemons (hope I have the spelling correct); guests of Jim Marsh. We also had the pleasure of seeing an old friend, Ralph Denton and his lovely wife, Sarah. Hope to see you at more meetings.
Hope all of you saw the Las Vegas Sun article today: Born and raised: Natives offer perspectives on why Las Vegas will always be home. Our very own Gretchen and Don Payne and Mark Hall-Patton are highlighted. The Las Vegas Media Group (That’s US!) is even mentioned. Click the link to see the article.
Next month Cork will bring a special guest to share their own bit of history with our group.
Remember, tomorrow at the Clark County Board of Commissioners, Dick Taylor is receiving a proclamation giving him the title, Historian Laureate of Mt. Charleston. Hope to see some of you there. The meeting begins at 9:00 AM and is located at 500 S grand Central Pkwy. (across from the outlet mall between Charleston and Bonneville).
Mike’s talk prompted many of our members to share some of their own stories and myths, as well as ask for answers to some they may have heard.
We had a few new faces today: Ms. Peggy King, wife of Las Vegas entertainer, Sonny King. I have her email address so Peggy will be sure to attend future meetings. Also in attendance was James and Gina Marie Slemons (hope I have the spelling correct); guests of Jim Marsh. We also had the pleasure of seeing an old friend, Ralph Denton and his lovely wife, Sarah. Hope to see you at more meetings.
Hope all of you saw the Las Vegas Sun article today: Born and raised: Natives offer perspectives on why Las Vegas will always be home. Our very own Gretchen and Don Payne and Mark Hall-Patton are highlighted. The Las Vegas Media Group (That’s US!) is even mentioned. Click the link to see the article.
Next month Cork will bring a special guest to share their own bit of history with our group.
Remember, tomorrow at the Clark County Board of Commissioners, Dick Taylor is receiving a proclamation giving him the title, Historian Laureate of Mt. Charleston. Hope to see some of you there. The meeting begins at 9:00 AM and is located at 500 S grand Central Pkwy. (across from the outlet mall between Charleston and Bonneville).
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Recent Passing: Dick Taylor
Although we all knew it was inevitable, it is with a very heavy heart that I pass along the news that Dick Taylor has passed on. According to his daughter, Tina, he went in his sleep peacefully last evening (Thursday) at around 6:00 pm. I had the chance to talk with him briefly on Tuesday and he sounded tired, but it was always good to hear his voice. I know we will all miss him and we send our best to his family. Here is the email passed on from the family with information on services:
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our father, Dick Taylor. He died peacefully at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 10th (the same day that his father passed in 1974), surrounded by family. See the following links for his obituaries in the Las Vegas Review Journal and the LA Times. Feel free to add a comment in the Legacy Memory Book we are compiling in his honor (linked through each obituary).
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lvrj/obituary.aspx?n=richard-taylor&pid=149212825
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/latimes/obituary.aspx?n=richard-blackburn-taylor&pid=149212067
We will be having a small graveside service in Palm Springs on Saturday, March 19th, and a celebration of his life on Sunday, March 27th in Mt. Charleston.
Thank you for being a part of our father's life. He enjoyed the associations he had with his many friends and family throughout the world. He truly tried to make the world a better place by helping people understand that we are all connected and that we should all just get along!
Member Talent: Ed Dodrill
At the November meeting, Ed Dodrill shared a cowboy poem he wrote:
The cowboy’s last goodbye
By Ed Dodrill
Based on an old Jewish Joke
The Johnson’s came by early,
To say their last goodbye
As old Hagen lie awaiting
His journey toward the sky
The neighbors had been dropping by
Not knowing what to say
Since Parson Bell announced he might
Not live another day
No one knew when he settled here,
But his deed reads number one
And Hagen always came around
When work had to be done
The old settler often showed his grit
When life put him through hell
He never once would turn his back
Nor on misfortunes dwell
The sun was still a shining
When he opened up his eyes
And Mae was sitting at his side,
Though that was no surprise
He managed to produce a smile
And gently turned his head
“You’ve always been here at my side,”
The dying cowboy said
“You were there when the storm of ‘28
Wiped out half our herd
When the prairie fire burned our
house,You never said a word
And you were riding at my side,
Checking out the herd
The day before the sheriff said
They all must be destroyed
Fire, disease and awful weather,
Blown in straight from hell
Came to settle at our ranch
More times than I can tell
And every time the wrath of God
Came nipping at my heels
You were right there with me Mae,
Do you know just how that feels?
And so Mae, I must tell you,
As my final hour sinks
Today I finally realize,
Mae, you’ve been a jinx
The cowboy’s last goodbye
By Ed Dodrill
Based on an old Jewish Joke
The Johnson’s came by early,
To say their last goodbye
As old Hagen lie awaiting
His journey toward the sky
The neighbors had been dropping by
Not knowing what to say
Since Parson Bell announced he might
Not live another day
No one knew when he settled here,
But his deed reads number one
And Hagen always came around
When work had to be done
The old settler often showed his grit
When life put him through hell
He never once would turn his back
Nor on misfortunes dwell
The sun was still a shining
When he opened up his eyes
And Mae was sitting at his side,
Though that was no surprise
He managed to produce a smile
And gently turned his head
“You’ve always been here at my side,”
The dying cowboy said
“You were there when the storm of ‘28
Wiped out half our herd
When the prairie fire burned our
house,You never said a word
And you were riding at my side,
Checking out the herd
The day before the sheriff said
They all must be destroyed
Fire, disease and awful weather,
Blown in straight from hell
Came to settle at our ranch
More times than I can tell
And every time the wrath of God
Came nipping at my heels
You were right there with me Mae,
Do you know just how that feels?
And so Mae, I must tell you,
As my final hour sinks
Today I finally realize,
Mae, you’ve been a jinx
Betty Bunch Named One of Las Vegas’s Best 10 Living Showgirls
BETTY BUNCH
1956 Moro-Landis Line, Sahara
1962 "Gotta Get to Vegas," Dunes
1963 Dick Humphries Dancers, Riviera
1964 Jimmy Durante Girl, Desert Inn
1965-1967 "Bottom's Up," Castaways
This Texas native calls being a showgirl "the answer to a lifetime dream."
"I knew when I was 9 that I was going to be a professional dancer," says Bunch, 76, who today writes for Prime View (a publication of Stephens Media, parent company of the Las Vegas Review-Journal).
Bunch -- who dated comedian Shecky Greene for three years -- says showgirls were treated "like royalty" back then.
"We could go into any showroom and the maitre d' would just say, 'Oh hi, come in and have a drink.' They might not have known us by name. But they recognized the showgirl makeup and the height."
Full List can be found at: http://www.lvrj.com/living/104657334.html?imw=Y
1956 Moro-Landis Line, Sahara
1962 "Gotta Get to Vegas," Dunes
1963 Dick Humphries Dancers, Riviera
1964 Jimmy Durante Girl, Desert Inn
1965-1967 "Bottom's Up," Castaways
This Texas native calls being a showgirl "the answer to a lifetime dream."
"I knew when I was 9 that I was going to be a professional dancer," says Bunch, 76, who today writes for Prime View (a publication of Stephens Media, parent company of the Las Vegas Review-Journal).
Bunch -- who dated comedian Shecky Greene for three years -- says showgirls were treated "like royalty" back then.
"We could go into any showroom and the maitre d' would just say, 'Oh hi, come in and have a drink.' They might not have known us by name. But they recognized the showgirl makeup and the height."
Full List can be found at: http://www.lvrj.com/living/104657334.html?imw=Y
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
member updates (jan)
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all! Hope your holidays were safe and enjoyable. Glad they are over, right? The New Year is off to a great start. I wanted to provide updates on some member news and to tell you about our next few meetings.
First, we have finally secured the esteemed historian, Mr. Michael Green, to be our January speaker. He is a professor of history at the College of Southern Nevada, the author of several books and writes for local publications. In addition, he is an all-around-stand-up-guy and we are so honored to have him come and share his knowledge of Las Vegas history with us. Frank has been trying to get him to speak before our group for some time, so we are lucky he has the time to come.
In February, Cork Proctor has someone lined up. More information on that when I talk with Cork.
Dick Taylor continues to fight his battle with ill health; our thoughts and prayers are with you, Dick. Stay Strong!!!!
Speaking of Dick Taylor, he is being honored with a wonderful recognition for all of his years promoting and preserving the history of Mt. Charleston. On Tuesday, January 18th, Dick is receiving a Proclamation for Historian Laureate of Mt. Charleston from the Board of County Commissioners. The meeting to present this proclamation will be held at 500 S. Grand Central Parkway and begins a 9:00 AM. Anyone can attend and it would be a wonderful show for Dick for his posse to be there.
Another member, Jim Marsh, is being recognized by the F.I.O.R.E. Non-Club Club for his generosity in helping a local resident receive necessary surgery. This event takes place at Italian America Social Club January 13th, 2333 E. Sahara at 11:30 AM. Reservations are required if you wish to attend. Cost for the lunch and event is $20.00. Send your R.S.V.P.’s to Nelson Sardelli at nsardelli@aol.com.
Rich Friedland has a new CD out. For those of you lucky enough to attend the December meeting, you got a free CD. He has copies available for purchase and since Rich is so funny, it’s worth every penny! We’ll ask him to bring some to the January meeting.
Read Kid Cary’s latest story about his mom and the Nevada Club at Kid Cary’s Las Vegas
Thanks to Carl Floyd for his great updates and forwards.
Welcome to new member, Ms. Adele Z.Z. Zorn. Find out more about her at Vegas Community Online
Mark your calendars for our next meeting date: Monday January 17 at the Wedding Room. Dr. Michael Green is our presenter.
Remember to send me your member updates so I can be sure to share them with the group.
See you then.
702 245-9206
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