IN THIS ISSUE:

News From Las Vegas

FROM JIMMY WILKINS

The Riviera Hotel/Casino celebrated its fifth anniversary of Monday nights' "Jazz On The Strip" on July 26th to an overflow crowd. The Jimmy Wilkins Orchestra got things underway with a rousing set featuring brother Ernie Wilkins' high-powered arrangements. Saxophonist Don Menza's quintet featuring Joe Lano followed by a set of hard bopping jazz. The third set brought on Don Menza's hard charging big band performing Menza's own compositions and arrangements. Carl Fontana followed with his quartet displaying his virtuosity on slide trombone solidifying his rep as one of the greatest on the instrument. Singer Ernie Andrews, backed by the Jimmy Wilkins Orchestra, closed out the evening and wowed the crowd with his vocal renditions of jazz, blues and ballads to the point of a standing ovation. Andrews is, without a doubt, a consummate performer. To sum it up, it was a great swinging evening. The Jimmy Wilkins Orchestra will return to the Riviera in September and October 4th.

Black Entertainment boss Robert Johnson was awarded a liquor license from the Clark County Commission to operate the "Tres Jazz Nightclub" in the soon-to-open Paris Hotel/Casino. Johnson plans to beam live performances from the club on his cable TV network. Word is out that the Paris Hotel will also house the Blue Note Jazz Club.

For those that may not know: Detroit pianist John E. Griffith and guitarist Calvin Brooks have relocated in Vegas. Brooks has made occasional appearances at the Motown Cafe located in the New York, New York Hotel and Casino. 

I want to thank those who have sent expressions of sympathy following the passing of my brother Ernie who expired in Copenhagen, Denmark, on June 5th following a lengthy illness due to a stroke.

Until the next time, keep swinging and support your favorite musician.