From a gambling and historical perspective, the colorful characters are starting to fade away in Vegas at a rapid pace. Not to mention some of the finest and nicest folks you would ever want to meet.

I think Andy Hughes & I both posted notes about the passing of Ralph Engelstad, owner of the Imperial Palace last week.

This week saw the passing of a legendary bookmaker, Mr. Sonny Reizner. If you have ever spent anytime in Vegas around sports books over the years, you know the name. He started the very first football contest in Nevada at the Hole-in-the-Wall Sports Book at the Castaways. He was director of sports books at the Rio, Frontier and the Desert Inn before retiring. Sonny brought parlays and teasers into the main stream and was one of the finest people you could have been lucky enough to meet in your lifetime. Farewell Mr. Reizner and thanks.

Link to the LVRJ article on Mr.Reizner:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Dec-01-Sun-2002/sports/20180874.html

And sadly, Ms Edna Luckman, owner of the Gambler's Book Club passed away this week. This is a quirky little book store off the Strip and a wonderful place for any kind of books on gambling. I bought a copy of the "Green Felt Jungle" in the store years ago and was hooked on the place ever since. LVRJ's John L. Smith's small blurb stated that "the GCB brought wagering literature to the masses." Store manager Howard Schwartz was quoted as saying, "Between the authors and the customers, there was never a shortage of Damon Runyon individuals in the place." And that is very accurate description of the store!! Rest in Peace Ms Luckman.