The caption on this 1968 gem is straightforward, but the dream contained within is expansive. It harkens back to a time when promoting Las Vegas to the world through unusual and sometimes provocative staged photos was its own artform. Yet compared to today's more bombastic promotions, they seem downright wholesome. These three archetypal Las Vegans from the 1960s (big white-hat chef, themed showgirls) aren’t particularly famous. Their Google traces are limited to facts like Orie being the star of the Thunderbird Hotel revue “Mod Squad Marmalade” (undoubtedly bolstered by the popular youth-oriented TV program of the day) and Carl’s short and sweet obit 30 years later. Yet what a untypical/typical November day it must have been, posing with a likely uncooperative turkey (no word on its next act, though the photo implies much) to get that perfect, enduring Las Vegas shot.
A Very Vegas Turkey
Dayvid Figler
From left to right is Janet Karis, “Miss Can Can"; executive chef Carl T. Dorre; and Orie Sasaki, “Miss Mod Squad.” The dancers were promoting the prices at the Thunderbird Hotel for the “special Thanksgiving Day Menu for Mothers.” (UNLV Archives and Special Collections)
Share article
Stay connected to City Cast Las Vegas and get ready to join the local conversation.
Las Vegas History
David Copperfield’s Las Vegas Residency Ends: Was He Ever Really One of Us?
David Copperfield’s show at the MGM Grand ends tomorrow after 25 years.
The Coolest, Creepiest Ghost Towns Near Las Vegas
Nevada's boom-and-bust mining legacy produced hundreds of ghost towns. A few of them are within driving distance from Las Vegas.
Steve Wynn: Missing From Vegas, But Active on Instagram
While persona non grata in the Vegas casino industry, Steven Wynn is busy chronicling his life and career on social media.
Back in Time: A Celebration of Vegas History Returns
Home + History Las Vegas returns with tours via walking, bus, bikes, and more.
Is Today Las Vegas’ Real Birthday?
The answer: ehhhh …
The Secret State Park in the Middle of Downtown Vegas
The oldest non-native settlement in Las Vegas set the stage for the community we know today.
The Mint 400 and Its Wild Las Vegas History
The most notorious and grueling off-road race in the world has a long history in Las Vegas.
Elvis Uncovered: Found Footage Never Looked (and Sounded) So Good
“EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” is now open on IMAX screens before expanding to a wider theatrical release next week.
The latest in Las Vegas
Why We Observe Memorial Day in May
Inspired by the tradition of decorating graves with flowers, Memorial Day has its beginnings in the aftermath of the Civil War and is now...
Where to See Outdoor Movies in Las Vegas
A few of them are by the pool too.
So What Does Switch Do Anyway?
Can the "Fort Knox of data” show Las Vegas that data centers aren't something to fear?
Take This Week's Las Vegas News Trivia Quiz
Ready for a challenge? Take our weekly quiz, based on the news and stories of this past week in Las Vegas.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Burgers: Your Stickiest Guilty Pleasure
Peanut butter and jelly is perfect on a sandwich, but the combo is even better on a burger. Trust us.
Local Primary Races to Watch in Southern Nevada
A few primary races have caught our attention in Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas ... and yes, even Pahrump.
Last-Minute Mother’s Day Ideas for Las Vegans
If your mom lives here in Vegas, we’ve got a few ideas for Mother’s Day fun.
2026 Primary Races to Watch in Nevada
Your guide to the 2026 primary races that matter to voters in Nevada.
