Old-timers preparing for bash

Kris Hill

Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2000 | 9:17 a.m.

The fifth annual Old Time Reunion party for residents who have lived in Las Vegas for 30 years or more is almost here.

At 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 at the Stardust hotel, old-timers of the city will reminisce about the old days and dance the night away to the musical stylings of a live band.

The party was started five years ago when during a daily meeting over bagels and coffee a group of old-timers started asking each other about mutual friends. That led to the decision to throw a party to try to round up all the local old-timers in one place.

The first reunion drew 500 people to Arizona Charlie's, and others had to be turned away, Ken Johann, the event's organizer, said.

After the inaugural bash, the planners decided to move the party to the Stardust and drew 1,000 people to the second annual get-together.

Each year since, the party has sold out all 1,000 tickets.

"Everybody and anybody comes to it," Johann said.

The event is advertised minimally; its organizers rely on word of mouth to get the information out. They spend three to four months planning -- most of that devoted to lining up entertainers, who donate their services, Johann said.

Johann would not reveal the list of entertainers who are expected this year, because he said there may be last-minute changes.

The event is nearly sold out. Tickets cost $35 per person. Residents interested in attending can call Johann at 382-6336.