By Judy Thorburn This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
http://www.theflickchicks.com
Priscilla Presley and Lisa Marie Presley Debut “Graceland Presents ELVIS: The Exhibition - The Show - The Experience” at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
On Thursday, April 23, the 59th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s first Las Vegas performance, Graceland brought the authentic Elvis Presley back to Las Vegas for the first time in 40 years with the public opening of “Graceland® Presents ELVIS™: The Exhibition - The Show - The Experience” at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, the same hotel where Elvis performed more than 600 record-breaking, sold-out shows between 1969 and 1976 when it was the International Hotel and then Las Vegas Hilton.
Ribbon Cutting
Photo courtesy of Westgate Resorts
Priscilla Presley and Lisa Marie Presley presided over a formal “blue suede” ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil their personal treasures from the family archives, from rarely seen artifacts including Elvis’ personal television remote from his Graceland bedroom to Lisa Marie’s baby shoes. Priscilla served as the matron of honor for the first wedding in Elvis Presley’s Graceland Wedding Chapel. In the evening she and Lisa Marie held a VIP red carpet gala for the debut of the “Elvis Experience” musical production that embodies the spirit of the king himself.
Lisa Marie Presley and husband Michael Lockwood and son Benjami Koeogh
Photo credit: Judy Eddy
Priscilla Presley
Photo courtesy of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Pinwheel Suit
Photo courtesy of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Elvis Uniform
Photo credit: of Tom Donoghue
Colonel Parker's belt buckle
Photo credit: of Tom Donoghue
Westgate CEO David Seigel, Priscilla Presley and Lisa Marie Presley
Photo credit: of Tom Donoghue
1971 Stutz Blackhawk
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Elvis on the road
Photo credit: of Getty Images
Elvid Gold Records
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
First gold album
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Hollywood Room
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Lincoln Continental
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Lisa Marie baby items
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Orange "Viva" suit
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
Suitcase phone
Photo credit: of Elivs Presley's Graceland
“Just think, it was 59 years ago today that Elvis performed his first show in Las Vegas,” said Priscilla Presley. “Elvis loved Las Vegas and he loved his fans – he would be the first to welcome you to this great exhibition of his life. Lisa and I are so happy to share these wonderful artifacts from our family with you and are thrilled to bring the authentic Elvis back to Las Vegas for the first time in 40 years.”
The first-ever permanent Elvis exhibition outside of Graceland encompasses more than 28,000 square feet and includes hundreds of artifacts from the Presley family’s treasured Graceland Archives. The exhibition takes visitors on an unprecedented journey through Elvis’ life and career, beginning with his early days in Tupelo, Mississippi through his first recording session in Memphis, rise to fame, Hollywood career, life at Graceland, the Las Vegas years and more. Graceland-produced videos immerse guests in the experience, concluding with a 26-minute retrospective film featuring Elvis’ greatest performances. Select artifacts will be rotated regularly with artifacts from the Graceland Archives to ensure the exhibit is constantly evolving and remains fresh. The exhibition is open seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm. Tickets are priced at $22 plus taxes and fees.
In addition to the Elvis exhibition and musical production, Elvis Presley’s Graceland Wedding Chapel at the Westgate, the first chapel outside of Graceland to be operated by Elvis Presley Enterprises is now open for couples to be joined together in an atmosphere of southern hospitality unique to the Graceland experience.
Winners of a nationwide contest by NBC’s Today Show, Kaycee Satava and Cameron Baker, were the first couple to be married at Elvis Presley's Graceland Wedding Chapel the morning of April 23, with Priscilla Presley serving as matron of honor.
UNLVino Showcases Three Nights Of Exquisite Food & Wine
The 41st annual UNLVino took over Las Vegas with three evenings of hospitality excellence, April 16-18, featuring fabulous wine, beer, spirits and sake; and cuisine from dozens of the city’s top restaurants and chefs, as well as UNLV’s talented culinary students. Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada and UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration once again partnered to raise scholarship funds through three dynamic events, Bubble-Licious at The Venetian Las Vegas, Sake Fever at Red Rock Hotel & Casino and the Grand Tasting at Paris Las Vegas. New to the UNLVino tradition, each soiree was further elevated with world-class entertainment, celebrity chefs and exclusive VIP experiences, making 2015 the most outstanding edition of Nevada’s oldest and largest wine tasting festival to date.
Grand Tasting
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
Len Jessup, Michael Severino, Hey Reb, Larry Ruvo, Don Snyder, Stowe Shoemaker, and Dee Snyder
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
On Thursday, April 16, UNLVino kicked off with its inaugural event, Bubble-Licious, in The Venetian Las Vegas’® beautiful Doge’s Palace Plaza. Guests enjoyed exclusive champagne and sparkling wine selections from the industry’s top suppliers and feasted on selections from a collection of The Venetian and Palazzo’s restaurants.
The Dom Pérignon Award of Excellence was given to James Beard Award-winning Chef Daniel Boulud, recognizing him as one of America’s leading culinary authorities as well as for his commitment to encouraging aspiring chefs in the hospitality industry. The award was presented by Larry Ruvo, Senior Managing Director of Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada; Michael Severino, Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada’s Director of Marketing & Special Events; Stowe Shoemaker, Dean of UNLV’s Hotel College; Len Jessup, President of UNLV; and UNLV scholarship recipient, Emma James. The evening was filled with memorable moments for Chef Boulud, including a birthday cake presented by Buddy V Las Vegas, a signed chef jacket from UNLV’s Hotel College senior class and an unforgettable rendition of “The Wind Beneath My Wings,” performed by award-winning singer and songwriter, Chadwick Johnson.
Birthday cake is presented to Daniel Boulud by Buddy Vs and Larry Ruvo at UNLVinos Bubble-Licious
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
A UNLVino staple for several years, Bubble-Licious commenced with the traditional “21 Cork Salute” as local sommeliers and restaurateurs popped 21 bottles of Dom Pérignon. Fantastic champagne and sparkling wine flowed to accompany small plates from The Venetian and Palazzo’s collection of restaurants, including B&B Ristorante’s Coteachino with Insalata Primavera and Aceto; Mango Crunch Ice Cream Pops Dipped in Dulce Chocolate from SushiSamba; Garlic Sausage "En Croute” from Bouchon and Lobster Boudin Blanc by Chef Boulud’s db Brasserie. Other culinary highlights included Farro Verde with Spring Vegetables from Otto by Mario Battali; Carlo’s Bakery’s Cake Bites, Cannolis and Italian Cookies; and Smoked Pork Terrine with Pickled Watermelon Rind and Root Beer Syrup by Delmonico.
UNLVinos Bubble-Licious
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
Bubble-Licious was brought to life by Chadwick Johnson, who had guests singing along to his soulful set. Additionally, The Venetian’s Streetmosphere performers rounded out the entertainment lineup with festive actors, acrobats, dancers and living statues.
UNLVino continued with Sake Fever, an outdoor soiree spanning Red Rock Resort Casino & Spa’s scenic pool on Friday, April 17. The night was filled with incredible sakes and Asian spirits, as well as cuisine from Las Vegas’ hottest restaurants.
Sake Selections at UNLVinos Sake Fever
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
During a special presentation, Don Snyder, Presidential Advisor of UNLV, was given the Dom Pérignon Award of Excellence for his contributions to Las Vegas’ community, including landmarks such as Fremont Street Experience and The Smith Center. Larry Ruvo also took a moment during the ceremony to honor Don’s wife, Dee Snyder, for her leadership in the community and as a partner in Don Snyder’s Las Vegas endeavors. Ruvo and the Snyders were joined on stage by Len Jessup, Stowe Shoemaker, Michael Severino and Abby Pancoast, a UNLV senior who is a recipient of the scholarships that UNLVino generates for students in the Hotel College.
Champagne Selections
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
To kick off the festivities, Mr. and Mrs. Snyder, Ruvo and Severino took part in the ceremonial sake barrel cracking. After opening the barrels with traditional mallets, guests were treated to an exciting performance by a Japanese Taiko drum troupe, featuring Rob DeTie, Ryan Sampson, Jordan Hoss, Mike "Pip" Ullemeyer, while they lined up for a sip of sake to toast.
The East and West were united as guests sampled dishes from a variety of Asian eateries, as well as Sin City’s hottest barbecue joints to pair with a variety of sakes, cocktails and spirits. As per tradition, Naked Fish’s Sushi and Grill treated guests to the rare experience of tasting impossibly fresh sashimi skillfully carved from a 240-pound bluefin tuna; and Katsuji Tanabe, a Food Network “Chopped” champion, served up his famous Dirty Tacos. Guests also nibbled on bites from 8 Noodle Bar; Aburiya Raku, District One, Double Barrel Roadhouse, Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar, Chef Heather Zheng of Shibuya, J Karaoke Bistro, Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Lucky Foo’s Restaurant & Bar, Mercadito, Monta Ramen, Pot Liquor Contemporary American Smokehouse, T-Bones Chophouse, Tonkatsu Kiyoshi, Yusho Japanese Grill & Noodle House and Zenshin Asian Restaurant. Also on-hand was “Top Chef: Season 12” winner, Mei Lin, who created a private dining experience for guests in one of Red Rock’s cabanas.
Naked Fish carves up a 240lb tuna at UNLVinos Sake Fever
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
Emcee Chet Buchanan kept the energy high throughout the night, while local musical group Franks & Deans energized the crowd with a live performance. The party continued late into the night with the Official Sake Fever After Party at Hearthstone, where guests enjoyed complimentary beverages as thanks for their support of the event.
UNLVino’s grandiose weekend concluded with its flagship event, the Grand Tasting, on Saturday, April 18 at Paris Las Vegas’ ballroom with celebrity chefs, endless libations, excellent food and live entertainment. Italian-American cook and restaurateur Steve Martorano was the night’s guest of honor as Larry Ruvo, Michael Severino and Stowe Shoemaker presented Martorano with the Dom Pérignon Award of Excellence. After receiving the award, complete with a cased bottle of Dom Pérignon and a chef’s jacket signed by UNLV Hotel College seniors, Martorano gathered students around the stage and told them to “never say no” when reaching for their dreams. Following Martorano’s encouraging acceptance speech, acclaimed musician Frankie Moreno sang Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life” to congratulate the honoree.
“Top Chef Season 12: Boston” winner Mei Lin showcased her winning snapper dish and “Chopped” champion Katsuji Tanabe joined UNLV Hotel College culinary students to create delicious small plates and passed appetizers, such as bacon-wrapped dates, ahi tuna poke and Oysters Rockefeller. Additionally, Vegas’ favorite restaurants provided bite-sized portions of their signature dishes, including meatball skewers from DW Bistro; foie gras mousse from Andre’s; meatballs and chorizo by Herbs & Rye’s; JinJu Chocolate’s chocolate truffles and candies; cold-pressed coffee and ceviche shooters from Makers & Finders Coffee; short rib and bone marrow agnolotti by Scarpetta/D.O.C.G; a variety of treats made by O Face Doughnuts; MTO Café’s mini bacon dippers; yellow tail tiradito and a signature bloody mary from Fleur by Hubert Keller and Burger Bar, personally served by Chef Hubert Keller himself; and snacks from The Goodwich. “Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise” contestant Marquel Martin showcased scrumptious confections from his newly opened business Social Cookie, including the exclusive UNLVino Strawberry cookie.
Frankie Moreno entertained the crowd with his smooth vocal talents and piano playing while guests danced the night away in between drinks and bites. Chet Buchanan emceed the final night of UNLVino and hosted the event’s live auction, which brought in thousands of dollars for UNLV’s Hotel College.
Frankie Moreno
Photo courtesy of UNLVino
More than 6,000 participate in 25th annual AIDS Walk
Friends, families, businesses, local entertainers and even pets came together Sunday morning, April 19 at Town Square for the 25th annual AIDS Walk benefiting Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN). More than 6,000 walkers participated in AFAN's most significant annual fundraiser, raising more than $400,000.
The event began as host Bryan Chan introduced AFAN's Executive Director Antioco Carrillo and board members including president Nikki Ferraro and Senator Ruben Kihuen. Randal Keith of Steve Wynn's Showstoppers kicked off the pre-walk performances with the national anthem, followed by performances from Zodiac Dragon, Melody Sweets of Absinthe, Jabbawockeez and Le Reve - The Dream. After walkers crossed the finish line, DJ AXIS and Mark Shunock of Rock of Ages took to the stage to entertain the crowd.
Walgreens presenting AFAN with donation check
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
The 25th annual AIDS Walk
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
AIDS Walk grand marshals Penn & Teller leading walkers
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Penn & Teller
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Jabbawockeez
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Le Reve - The Dream
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Melody Sweets of Absinthe
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Randal Keith of Steve Wynn's Showstoppers singing the national anthem
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
AFAN board of directors: Rob Schaffer, Richard Hudock, Doug May, Senator Ruben Kihuen, Felipe Crook, Marek Bute, Nikki Ferraro, Antioco Carrillo
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak
Kihuen presented AFAN with an official state proclamation to recognize the 25th annual AIDS Walk. Accompanying Kihuen on stage to honor AFAN's contributions to the community were Councilman Stavros Anthony, Assemblyman Nelson Araujo, Mayor Pro Tem Steve Ross and a representative from Senator Harry Reid's office. Famous illusionists Penn & Teller served as grand marshals for the 14th consecutive year, leading walkers through the Town Square course and announcing the winners of the Penn & Teller Challenge. Local companies came out in full force to support the walk. Walgreens once again had the largest walking group with more than 400 participants and presented a check to AFAN for $113,852. Wynn Las Vegas participated with more than 200 walkers, as did MGM Resorts with more than 100 participants and Emeril Lagasse's restaurants with more than 40 walkers.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
DELANO LAS VEGAS, which debuted in September 2014, has been named one of the 60 hottest new hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, a prominent luxury travel publication.
“America’s Got Talent” season-five champion MICHAEL GRIMM brings his soulful vocals to BLUES & BAYOU BRUNCH event inside Chrome Showroom at at Santa Fe Station on Sunday, April 26 at 11 a.m. Tickets to Blues and Bayou Brunch with Michael Grimm are $35 plus tax and applicable fees, with individual seats available, along with parties of two, three and five. Tickets for the show (without brunch included) are $10 plus tax and applicable fees. Doors open at 11 a.m. for brunch ticket holders and 11:45 a.m. for non-brunch attendees.
Legendary rock band JOURNEY makes its way to The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for a nine-show residency, Journey Las Vegas, from Wednesday, April 29 to Saturday, May 16. Tickets to Journey Las Vegas start at $59.50 (plus applicable service fees).
CABO WABO CANTINA, located inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, will celebrate NATIONAL MILITAIRY APPRECIATION MONTH by offering a 20% DISCOUNT to all active duty military members and veterans with valid military identification during the month of May.
URBAN TURBAN BOMBAY KITCHEN & TAPAS BAR, (serving a menu with an innovative twist on Indian cuisine) will honor members of the military throughout the month of May by offering a special discount. Urban Turban, located at 3900 Paradise Rd. near the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, will offer all veterans and active military personnel 50 percent off their bill with a valid military ID.
Fremont Street Experience will host the 20th ANNUAL SUSAN G.KOMEN OF SOUTHERN NEVADA RACE FOR THE CURE on Saturday, May 2 with registration starting at 8:15 a.m. Individuals can participate in a 5K (approximately 3.2 miles) or a 1-Mile Fun Walk. The Race will start at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Clark Avenue and will finish at the intersection of Fremont East and 6th Street. In honor of Race for the Cure, Fremont Street Experience will donate 100% of SlotZilla revenue to Susan G. Komen of Southern Nevada for everyone who flies on either the lower Zipline ($20) or upper Zoomline ($40) on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Flight times can be purchased at the SlotZilla box office or can be booked in advance online at www.vegasexperience.com.
Building off the overwhelming success of the first two conventions of its kind, the VAPE SUMMIT will return to Las Vegas for a three-day event from Thursday, April 30, through Saturday, May 2, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The event will be open to the public from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, May 1, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 2.
More than 300 vendors and exhibitors from across the country will come together to showcase their products, share ideas and host discussions to further unify the industry and break into mainstream culture. The most recent event drew more than 20,000 attendees during a two-day period.
Friday evening and Saturday at the summit will be open to the general public for those 18 years of age and older to experience all of the exhibits, test and purchase products and experience speeches and seminars about the industry. The event will also feature The Gallery, which will highlight high-end and unique MODs (the device used for vaping) from across the world and a variety of new releases, limited editions and product debuts. Pre-Registration for business and general admission tickets is available. Open registration for all attendees will be available beginning Friday, March 27.
In support of their new box set release The Polydor Years 1986-1992 (November 2014), THE MOODY BLUES brings their ‘Timeless Flight – The Polydor Years’ tour to The Pearl inside Palms Casino Resort on May 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $63, plus any additional service fees.
THE COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA's Department of Fine Arts presents a delightfully, spirited evening of musical surprises with their WEDNESDAY NIGHT BAND CONCERT led by Dr. Richard McGee, who will be sharing the stage with the Calypso Coyote Steel Drum Band under the direction of Robert Bonora, on May 6, at 7:30 p.m. in the Nicholas J. Horn Theatre at theCheyenne Campus. General admission tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for studentsand seniors. The CSN Performing Arts Center is located at 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave. in North Las Vegas.
FRIENDS OF SHADE TREE has announced the 13th ANNUAL “GIRLS NIGHT OUT” charity gala will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6 at Hyde Bellagio. Daniel Park, a handsome one-man performer who combines vocals, guitar and violin into his performance, will headline the event.
The largest annual fundraiser for The Shade Tree, “Girls Night Out” has become one of the top social events of the year for ladies to dress up, drink, dance and raise money for the local organization that provides safe refuge to physically abused and homeless women, children and their pets. Emmy Award-winning FOX 5 anchor, Jason Feinberg, will return as emcee of the extravagant affair and Christian Kolberg, celebrated auctioneer, will return to host an exciting live auction. Miss Nevada USA, Brittany McGowan, along with other Las Vegas celebrities, will walk the red carpet. Southern Wine & Spirits will generously donate libations for the evening and Hyde will provide hors d’oeuvres throughout the event. The evening will begin with a mixer and silent auction, followed by the live auction and headline entertainment. Tickets are priced at $175 per person, with tables available for $300 per person with seating in groups of six, eight, 10 and 12 guests. Tickets and more information are available at friendsoftheshadetree.net or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Comic BRUCE BRUCE brings his larger-than-life comedy style and improv skills to the Suncoast Showroom May 8 and 9. Showtime each evening is 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15.95, plus tax and convenience fees and can be purchased at any Boyd Gaming Box Office
Celebrity sightings:
Friday night, April 24...
Legendary supermodel Naomi Campbell kick-started the weekend of celebration as she took over the turntables at OMNIA Nightclub inside Caesars Palace for the hot spot’s grand opening affair.
Naomi Campbell OMNIA Grand Opening Red Carpet
Photo credit: David Becker/WireImage
Naomi Campbell and Ruckus OMNIA Grand Opening Heart of OMNIA
Photo credit: David Becker/WireImage
Also spotted on the red carpet was Hakkasan Group CEO Neil Moffitt, resident DJ Ruckus and celebrity chefs Brian Malarkey and Gordon Ramsay.
Upon arrival, the stunning star immediately got the party started as she hopped into the DJ booth and waved to the packed room. The venue exploded with excitement as DJ Ruckus jumped on the mic to introduce the headlining icon as she began her awaited set.
Also at OMNIA Nightclub for the celebratory grand opening weekend was resident DJ Calvin Harris who had the main club erupting with excitement as he played hit after hit.
Thursday night, April 23...
Two of comedy’s biggest players Kevin Hart and Amy Schumer enjoyed dinner with a group of 20 friends in TAO Asian Bistro’s private room, after attending Cinemacon where Hart received Comedy Star of the Year and Schumer was awarded Breakthrough Performer of the Year.
Afterwards, Hart was spotted at Hakkasan Nightclub’s fourth level Main Room at MGM Grand.
Later that night, New Orleans Saints linebacker Dannell Ellerbe was spotted at TAO Nightclub enjoying Worship Thursday with family and friends.
Saturday, April 18...
*N SYNC member and radio host, Lance Bass stopped by ROCK OF AGES at The Venetian Las Vegas for the 8 p.m. performance. Following the show, Bass met with the cast and friend Joey Fatone, now starring as legendary Bourbon Room owner “Dennis Dupree”.
Lance Bass with cast of ROCK OF AGES at The Ventian Las Vegas
Photo credit: Sharon delPilar/ROCK OF AGES
Lance Bass with ROCK OF AGES guest star Joey Fatone
Photo credit: Sharon delPilar/ROCK OF AGES
Magician and illusionist Criss Angel was spotted at Blue Man Group inside Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. The Las Vegas Strip headliner went backstage after the performance for a private VIP meet-and-greet with cast members.
Criss Angel
Photo courtesy of Blue Man Group
Friday night, April 17...
Hakkasan Las Vegas Restaurant and Nightclub at MGM Grand celebrated its 2 Year Anniversary with a blowout bash. Spotted enjoying the celebration was multi-talented singer, songwriter and actress Christina Aguilera alongside fiancé Matthew Rutler and a few close friends. Following dinner Aguilera and friends made their way up to the main room of the nightlife mecca. Also spotted in attendance was “Breaking Bad” star Aaron Paul, who took some time to mingle with the group at their VIP table throughout the night as resident DJ Tiësto spun the tunes.
Christina Aguilera with Matthew Rutler at Hakkasan Anniversary
Photo credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage
Thursday, April 16...
Actress Sarah Jessica Parker previewed her two-day-only SJP Collection Pop-Up Boutique at The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas, Parker hosted the VIP shopping event to debut “The Strip Collection,” a line of shoes, handbags and candles inspired by Las Vegas and exclusive to Zappos Couture. Parker was joined by special guests, including Crystals’ Senior Vice President and General Manager Farid Matraki, along with MGM Resorts’ Board Member and president of Infinity World William Grounds, General Manager of Vdara Hotel &Spa Mary Giuliano, Executive Chef of BARDOT Brasserie Josh Smith, wife of President and CEO of CityCenter Bobby Baldwin, Audra Baldwin, and many other local VIPs and executives.
Sarah Jessica Parker and Farid Matraki enjoy the SJP Pop-Up Opening at The Shops at Crystals
Photo Credit: Zappos Couture
Sarah Jessica Parker Debuts The Strip Collection at The Shops at Crystals
Photo Credit: Zappos Couture
