Another great story by Steve this week.

Most of you knew the Casino Legends Hall of Fame as a museum type attraction in fact it was an institution that recognized Las Vegas Legends in several different categories. The attraction was ticketed 365 days a year and once a year we had a major ceremony where legends were inducted into the Hall of Fame. These ceremonies were held in The Tiffany Theatre (Home of the Folies Bergere), these were invited guests only events and were attended by the who’s who of Las Vegas. The Governor and Jerry Lewis were regulars in the audience. The theatre sat around 1100 and it was always packed with standing room only. These ceremonies have gone smoothly since opening in 1998 thanks to Ginny Murphy, the showroom manager. I had done much in my career but producing award shows was not on the list. The next ceremony was scheduled for October 11, 2002, and a crisis was unfolding. Jack Jones, Frankie Randall, Nelson Sardelli, Mafalda, Mamie Van Doren and Norm Crosby had all confirmed they would appear. Invitations were printed and mailed, press releases had already gone out, interviews were scheduled. Then it happened, I received the call from Jack Jones personally and he apologized for not being able to make it. He promised he would be in the next ceremony if we would still have him. I told him no problem; I would work it out. With only three days until showtime and no time to print additional ephemera, I started to panic. I called my dear friend Jaki Baskow, Las Vegas talent agent, and told her of my predicament. Jaki asked me if I had some type of master list of pre-approved legends, I did and sent it to her immediately. Within ten minutes she responded and asked me if Lou Rawls would be acceptable. Turned out he was doing a special event in town and was available for the induction ceremony. Fortunately, he had heard of the Casino Legends Hall of Fame and wanted in. I spoke with him personally and explained that there was no time to print new invitations. I did tell him that he would be the highlight of this ceremony and promised him that I would make it up to him someday. He graciously accepted and I will never forget this incredibly talented and humble individual for saving the (my) day. Clint Holmes was my host/emcee, and the audience was packed with past and future inductees. When Lou Rawls was called up to receive his induction, he spotted The Checkmates in the audience and summoned them to the stage. Las Vegas magic was about to happen as the four of them began to sing together in an unscripted format creating a Hall of Fame moment I will never forget. Lou Rawls was a class act and so deserving of the honor he was about to receive. Jack Jones was inducted in 2004 and he was amazing as well. Sadly, Lou Rawls passed away in 2006 but Jaki Baskow remains part of my inner circle to this day. Frankie Randall, Mafalda, and Jack Carter have all passed away since being inducted that day. I personally received many awards that day and was known as a producer from that day on. Thanks again Lou!