Jackie Gaughan, the legendary Las Vegas gaming pioneer, celebrates his 91st birthday by sharing cake and champagne with friends and guests outside the new Parlour at the El Cortez Hotel & Casino.
Gaughan owned or operated several hotels and casinos during his career including the Flamingo, Showboat Casino, Union Plaza Hotel & Casino, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Club Hotel & Casino, Gold Spike Hotel & Casino, Western Casino and the El Cortez.
Although he is now retired, the El Cortez penthouse remains Gaughan’s home. On most days, Gaughan can still be spotted playing poker on the El Cortez casino floor.
Gaughan’s influence over Las Vegas is seen to this day. He was one of the pioneers to bring boxing to Las Vegas, and his knowledge of slots made him one of the city’s top experts, with other casino owners coming to him for advice. He was also the first casino owner to institute “funbooks” for playing customers. Current Las Vegas visionary Steve Wynn credits Gaughan for helping him get his start at the Golden Nugget.
When: Monday, Oct. 24
Cake cutting at 12 p.m.
