Las Vegas Born and Raised: A young woman embraces life's adventures

by Roberta Gordon Kane

Born and raised in Las Vegas when it was a dusty little cowboy town of 5,165 souls, Roberta “Bobbie” Kane has seen all the spectacular changes to her hometown, arguably the entertainment and sports capital of the world. Roberta’s grandparents and parents were pioneers in Las Vegas. When they immigrated in the 1930s, there were only a handful of Jewish families. Roberta was the first Jewish child born in Las Vegas. Today, there is a vigorous, intelligent, progressive Jewish population of 80,000 in Las Vegas. Ensconced at the University of Southern California with a rebellious and energetic streak, she married early, had three exceptional children, and embarked on adventures throughout the world. Her career included Convention Saleswoman at the Stardust Hotel in Las Vegas, Public Relations Director for the Ilikai Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii, and partner in Kane International Corporation in the Islands. Her experiences in New Zealand, Australia, Asia, and Europe led to some funny mishaps—the $201 banana—as well as star encounters during the filming of Hawaii Five-O, the return of the Apollo13 astronauts, and privileged interactions with Jack Benny, and many others. In 1971 she met the true love of her life, the dashing Alex Kane. Scottish born, and New Zealand raised, he was a World War II Spitfire pilot and a businessman new to Hawaii. She never let him go. Fortunate, appreciative, ready to admit her high energy and spirit of adventure have led to mistakes, she enjoys a healthful, loving relationship with her friends back in Las Vegas.

151 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 29, 2021

Reviews

[Susan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appreciated reading this memoir that included the early years of Las Vegas and the adventures of growing up near Fremont Street. Today, people know Fremont Street as a tourist destination without thinking twice about its development. I bought this book from the author herself at the Fifth Street Grammar School she mentions in her memoir. I admire her tenacity and strong spirit to live and raise her children on her own during a time when women weren't suppose to do so. She paved the way for many women probably without realizing she did. The only thing I found missing are the 1980 years, but the author wrote her memories the way she seems to have lived her wonderful and adventurous life- on her terms, which I appreciate. Thanks to the author for sharing her life's experiences.