Alex Shoofey

In August 1969, Kirk Kerkorian's International Hotel was the largest resort in the world and cost $80 million to complete.  Alex Soofey who was working for Kerkorian was given the job of putting The International Hotel on the map. He decided that Elvis Presley was the one act that would do this and after a meeting with Colonel Tom Parker an initial booking was made.

After working on rehearsals, Elvis opened in the International Showroom on July 31, 1969.  Booked for a four-week engagement the reviews were ecstatic with Elvis breaking all attendance records for the city.  Five months later Elvis returned to the International and broke his own attendance records, starting a series of twice yearly engagements that would continue until 1976.

Following his opening performance, Colonel Parker and hotel manager Alex Shoofey signed a contract scribbled on a restaurant tablecloth which, despite receiving many attractive offers from other Vegas resorts, Elvis dutifully honoured.

In 1970, the Hilton Hotel group purchased the International Hotel, along with Kerkorian's other property, the Flamingo.  When International president Alex Shoofey met  Barron Hilton the International's new owner, in 1972,  he is reported to have said "Colonel Parker -- minus Elvis Presley -- is the best customer you ever had at this hotel. He's good for at least one million dollars a year."

Alex Shoofey passed away in 2007 at the age of ninty one.  

                            

Listen to "Elvis Extra" live on line on Dublins Country Mix 106.8 fm every Sunday 7-8pm. www.perfectstation.com

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises.