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But Jim was off the Vietnam to "see what it was all about." That thirteen-week contract turned into almost three years of entertaining the troops in SE Asia. During the infamous Tet Offensive of 1968, Jim perfected "The Bunker Hunker," and was heard to say, "I found out one thing during a rocket attack: Everything you've got can dig!" The TROPICANA in Las Vegas welcomed Jimmy back in 1970 to star in a comedy revue and then appear in THE BLUE ROOM with Lou Rawls. At THE SAHARA, Jim was comedy star of "Hot Flashes." In the early seventies, Jim traveled to THE CHATEAU CHAMPLAIN in Montreal, THE CAVE in Vancouver, and the major resorts in THE CATSKILLS. In 1976, it was back to Vegas to star in "Hooray '76" at the FLAMINGO, and then to RESORTS INTERNATIONAL'S Paradise Island for a one year run. When Atlantic City legalized gambling, Resorts hired Jimmy to be comedy star in their first revues, "Bravo Boardwalk Bravo" and "Boardwalk Magic" in the Superstar Theater. During this three year period, Jimmy also shared the bill with major stars Lou Rawls, Lola Falana, Ben Vereen, Al Hirt, Ann Murray and many others. To date, Wallis has appeared with over 50 stars and internationally known groups! The run in Atlantic City was followed by a three year return to Resort's Properties in the Bahamas. SOLID GOLD, starring Andy Gibb ran for a year at the RIVIERA, and Jim's two spots in the show won him high praise from all of the Las Vegas critics. The mid eighties included HARRAH'S in Reno, the RENO HILTON with Vic Damone, The LAS VEGAS HILTON as Special Guest Star with Suzanne Somers, and with Debbie Reynolds and Rip Taylor also in the "Bal du Moulin Rouge" at the HILTON. While appearing as comedy star in "City Lites" at the FLAMINGO HILTON, Jim was chosen to appear with Wayne Newton and other top performers in the St. Jude's "Night of the Stars" at the LAS VEGAS HILTON CONVENTION CENTER. Wallis returned to the Bahamas and starred in a revue at Paradise Island for all of 1988. Since then he has continued to work Clubs, Conventions, and the newest addition to show business, Cruise Lines. |