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
The Venetian and Palazzo Kick Off Winter In Venice and Manheim Steamroller Christmas Las Vegas
The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas kicked off its third annual celebration of the winter holiday season, Winter in Venice, on Tuesday, November 20 with several fun filled events. Dubbed “A Gift of The Venetian,” Winter in Venice features 50 days of holiday festivities throughout both resorts Nov. 18 to Jan. 6.
The evening's festivities began with an outdoor VIP reception at Doge's Palace Plaza where guests were treated to complimentary cuisine as an introduction to Culinary Clash, a four week competition between top chefs from dozens of restaurant venues located inside The Venetian and The Palazzo. Chefs will be challenged to create recipes using ingredients provided in a “mystery basket,” to be prepared in mobile “food truck” kitchens, located at The Venetian’s Doge’s Palace plaza. Each chef’s creation will then be available for sampling. The event, which will be held Nov. 29, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21, from 10pm – 2am., will include surprise guest appearances by The Venetian and The Palazzo’s celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse, Mario Batali, Joe Bastianich and Sammy DeMarco, as judges of the competition.
As part of the kick off event, guests and onlookers witnessed the official premiere of a parade at The Venetian’s Doge’s Palace, featuring visually dazzling characters from the Winter in Venice celebration. Preceding the parade, “Light of Venice.” a spectacular 3D projection show showcasing seasonal storylines transformed the architecture of the iconic clock tower using state-of-the-art digital technology. The show concluded with a live finale that illuminated the iconic plaza.
Celebrity guests, actress Dot Marie Jones from TV's Glee, and actor/model and former Dancing with the Stars contestant, Gilles Marini and his family were on hand for the 3D projection show and the lighting of the 65-foot Christmas tree.
As a marquee addition to Winter in Venice, Grammy Award®-winning composer/musician Chip Davis premiered his award-winning holiday production that is perfect for the entire family, “Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Las Vegas” to The Palazzo Theater. The six-week, exclusive run that began Nov. 20 features Mannheim Steamroller’s renowned program of signature Christmas classics and state-of-the- art multimedia effects. This classic holiday tradition has been expanded for its first-ever Las Vegas residency with added choreography, aerial displays and other new elements, to create an unforgettable experience. All show times for Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Las Vegas” begin at 7 p.m Nov. 20 – December 30.
Throughout the 50-day Winter In Venice celebration there will also be strolling musicians and special entertainment performances scheduled for guests to enjoy.
Winter In Venice costumed characters
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Asparagus topped deviled eggs at Winter In Venice VIP reception
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice VIP reception
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Dessert offerings at Winter In Venice VIP reception
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Chefs Sammy D and Luciano Pellegrino
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Michael Godard and his wife
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice characters
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Venetian COO Rob Goldstien (center) with Dot-Marie Jones (in red shirt) and Gilles Marini and his family
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Venetian COO Rob Goldstien, Gilles Marini and Dot-Marie Jones surrounded by Winter in Venice characters
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
President and COO Rob Goldstein and Gilles Marini throw the switch to begin the 3D projection show
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice outdoor 3D projection show
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice character
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Christmas Tree
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice characters
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Winter In Venice character
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Dot-Marie Jones and Giles Marini on the red carpet
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo Celebrates Grand Opening at Tivoli Village
Cantina Laredo, featuring modern Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated atmosphere, celebrated its Official Grand Opening within the outdoor pedestrian shopping destination, Tivoli Village, Thursday night, November 29th. Cantina Laredo’s new spacious 6,231 square foot venue accommodates more than 300 patrons in both indoor and outdoor dining spaces (on two separate patios). Patio diners can utilize the indoor/outdoor bar and take in the fresh Las Vegas air under sparkling LED-lit trees.
Patrons seeking quality Mexican fair will delight in the wide variety of options found on Cantina Laredo’s menu, including a variety of vegetarian and gluten free offerings. Under the direction of Executive Chef Damon Workman, Cantina Laredo uses the best possible ingredients and prepares everything fresh in the kitchen.
During the special grand opening event VIP guests had a chance to pick and choose complimentary dishes from various food stations. Served buffet style were oaxaca camarones (bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeno), chicken flautas, pollo chipotle bites, cantina rolls, ahi tuna tacos, mini crabcakes with a poblano buerre sauce, beef, chicken and cheese quesadillas, and top shelf guacamole, a mouth-watering mix of the freshest ingredients and Haas avocados served with warm tortilla chips. A taqueria station featured pollo cascabel, brisket, carnitas, mahi mahi ,and to complete the meal a dessert station offered a selection of sweet-tooth satisfying desserts from the palette-pleasing lunch and dinner menu - Mexican Brownies, Mango Tres Leches cake, churros with chocolate raspberry sauce, that are all to die for.
In addition, Cantina Laredo guests can enjoy a variety of margaritas from their notable margarita menu, including the signature “Casa Rita” made with fresh squeezed lime juice, the “Cinco Margarita,” a blend of five tequilas,and, my favorite, the deliciously refreshing “Mango” margarita. The bar houses more than 60 tequila labels and there are plans to grow that number with time.
Although not included in the VIP event's tasting stations, other highlights from the menu include Camaron Poblano Asada with sautéed shrimp, mushrooms, onions, jack cheese all inside a grilled poblano pepper wrapped in carne asada steak and served on a bed of chimichurri sauce, Enchiladas de Avocado, avocado and artichoke enchilada topped with tomatillo sauce on a bed of spinach and Carnitas, braised pork shanks with chipotle-wine sauce.
For visitors as well as locals who are looking for excellent and affordable Mexican food, nice atmosphere and superb service by a friendly and accommodating staff, a visit to Cantina Laredo should be on your must do list. I am sure you will have a very satisfying experience. I, for one, am looking to return and try out one of their special vegetarian dishes.
Sunday Brunch is served each Sunday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. guests may choose from a special brunch menu and receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with purchase to complete the experience. Featured Sunday Brunch menu items include Crab Cakes Benedict and Asada y Huevos.
Las Vegans can look forward to daily happy hour specials from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. and 9p.m. – 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Each day will highlight a featured drink special in addition to the standard drink discounts. Happy Hour goers will also be able to choose from a menu of moderately priced, small dishes to complement their cocktails.
Cantina Laredo is located at 430 S. Rampart Blvd, Suite 110, Las Vegas, NV 89145 inside Tivoli Village. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday – Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Cantina Laredo
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo's Executive Chef Damon Workman and General Manager Mark Watson
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo quesadillas
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo mango tres leches cake
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo chocolate brownies
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Cantina Laredo
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Las Vegas Sun Hosted 2012 Sun Youth Forum For Area High Schoolers
Las Vegas Sun hosted its annual Sun Youth Forum on Tuesday, Nov. 20. The forum is a long-standing tradition that gives more than 1,000 of Las Vegas’ top performing juniors and seniors a voice. Students throughout Clark County had the chance to offer their views and experiences on various topics in structured small groups. Several prominent community members acted as moderators for small-group discussions on topics such as law and crime, around the world, Home in Nevada, school days, potpourri and America. Moderators included Brian Greenspun, publisher and editor of Las Vegas Sun; Shelly Berkley, U.S. Congresswoman, State of Nevada; Jim Livengood, athletic director at University of Nevada Las Vegas; John Ralston, host of “Ralston Report”; Honorable Bill Hoffman, U.S. Federal Judge, District of Nevada; and many more. This year, students were especially interested in topics such as same-sex marriage, the 2012 Presidential election, legalization of marijuana, Nevada’s education system and more.
During lunch, world-famous dance crew, Jabbawockeez, gave a special performance to the excited crowd of teens. Following, Brian Greenspun presented five lucky high school students with $1,000 college scholarships.
Founder and former Las Vegas Sun Publisher Hank Greenspun and his assistant Ruthe Deskin started the program to bring diverse and forward-thinking Las Vegans more in touch with the local youth, to listen and moderate a discussion of their opinions and life experiences. The first Sun Youth Forum in 1955 featured 96 students from five high schools and has grown immensely to feature over 1,000 students today. The program teaches young adults how to listen, discuss and respect the opinions of others in a civil and respectful manner.
Congresswoman Shelly Berkley leads discussion group at 2012 Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum
Photo credit: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun
Jabbawokeez perform at 2012 Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum
Photo credit: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun
Students gather at 2012 Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum
Photo credit: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun
Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall Celebrates the Holidays with Mystic Falls Park Winter Wonderland
It has become an annual tradition. As part of its winter holiday celebration, Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall once again hosts its whimsical winter display and holiday-themed Mystic Falls Park Light and Water Show now through January 1. Of course, the holiday celebration that includes Christmas, wouldn't be complete without Santa. On that note, Cowboy Santa will make an appearance in the Park’s gazebo Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. through December 23.
The pioneer-themed Mystic Falls Park Light and Water Show has been transformed into an immersive winter wonderland experience, beginning in Sam’s Town’s porte-cochère with festive lighting and decorative snowflakes leading to Mystic Falls Park where garland streams, wreath-adorned lampposts, and white light and snow-covered trees fill the atrium.
And every hour from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through January 1, a 15-minute laser-light holiday spectacular, concluding with artificial snowfall, will enchant guests. Poinsettias, red garland and ice crystals add to the themed visuals, while lighted sculpture polar bears and indoor snow create a whimsical magical winter wonderland experience in the heart of the Boulder Strip.
Boyd Gaming Executive Chairman Bill Boyd was joined by his grandson, Staff Sgt. Sam Boyd, on November 21 to flip the switch, lighting up the festive display.
Sam’s Town – Mystic Falls Park Winter 2012
The special holiday laser light and water show at Mystic Falls Park at Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall. The show continues through January 1.
Photo courtesy Boyd Gaming
Sam’s Town – Mystic Falls Park Winter 2012
Mystic Falls Park at Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall is decorated for the season.
Photo courtesy Boyd Gaming
Sam’s Town – Mystic Falls Park Winter 2012
Staff Sgt. Sam Boyd and Boyd Gaming Executive Chairman Bill Boyd flip the switch on the holiday season at Mystic Falls Park at Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall.
Photo courtesy Boyd Gaming
Sam’s Town – Mystic Falls Park Winter 2012
Cowboy Santa and his elves appear weekly at Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall in Mystic Falls Park – through December 23 – Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Photos are available from $11-17.
Photo courtesy Boyd Gaming
Tropical Smoothie Cafe Opens Inside Excalibur Hotel Casino, the Smoothie Brand’s First Strip Casino Location
The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of the newest Tropical Smoothie Café at a ceremonial ribbon cutting and the launch of the new Excalibur Hotel Casino’s Castle Walk Food Court Tuesday morning, November 20. The new Tropical Smoothie Café location, positioned directly in the middle of the food court, is the healthy fast food and fresh fruit smoothie chain’s second store on the Strip, but the first inside a Strip casino.
Attending the ribbon cutting were Dina Mitchell, Tropical Smoothie Café Area Developer and Marketing Director for Nevada; Lincoln Spoor, CEO of Feel Good Brands, LLC; Oscar B. Goodman, LVCVA Host Committee Chairman; Dave Farra and DK from X 107.5; Chet Buchanan from 98.5 KLUC; members of the Las Vegas Philharmonic; cast members from “Thunder from Down Under,” “Fantasy” and “Tournament of Kings”; the Australian Bee Gees; magician Murray Sawchuck from the Laugh Factory; Kevin Burke from “Defending the Caveman”; and Mike Hammer from the “Mike Hammer Comedy Magic Show.” “Lincoln Spoor has done an amazing job with a beautiful remodel of this entire food court at Excalibur. I am impressed by what he has accomplished,” said Dina Mitchell. “He truly is a fast casual dining trailblazer and it is an honor to work with him. We are happy to welcome Lincoln to the Tropical Smoothie Café family.”
Tropical Smoothie Cafe - Excalibur 2012 Ribbon Cutting
Photo Credit: Gabe Ginsberg/Vegas Kool
Former Mayor Oscar Goodman and Dina Mitchell, Tropical Smoothie Café Area Developer and Marketing Director for Nevada
Photo Credit: Fred Morledge/Photo FM
Tropical Smoothie Café ribbon cutting
Photo Credit: Fred Morledge/Photo FM
Fantasy cast members
Photo Credit: Fred Morledge/Photo FM
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
Steve Lott and Diana Erland, have started their own apparel company RYU, Respect Your Universe, and decided to co-brand their name with THE SPORTS PARTY MANSION, the newest and most unique party place in Las Vegas, located in the world famous martial arts facility, the RYU Athletic Center at 4040 W. Hacienda. Lott and Erland are the driving force behind Iconic Events, Inc., the company that is the exclusive agent for the SPORTS PARTY MANSION, a 20,000 square foot facility that houses MMA cages, boxing rings, easy transportation from the Strip, and marketing assistance from RYU.
The Mansion is also the perfect party setting whether accommodating a cocktail party for ten, a birthday celebration, wedding or a major extravaganza for groups of 500 plus. MMA and boxing superstars are available, by special arrangement, to sign and pose with each guest. An extensive menu of food and beverage completes the package.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and AEG Live raised $17,850 through a Red Cross TEXT-TO-DONATE CAMPAIGN FOR HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS at Guns N’ Roses Appetite for Democracy shows at The Joint. Hotel guests and concert goers contributed $12,850 to the fundraiser. The property and AEG Live donated an additional $5,000, making $17,850 the final donation total.
As a result of the vast devastation to the East Coast from Hurricane Sandy, Hard Rock Hotel, AEG Live and Guns N’ Roses were equally moved to partner with the Red Cross and support recovery efforts. Donations were accepted during Guns N’ Roses concerts, Wednesday, Nov. 7 – Saturday, Nov. 24.
The sizzling male revue show AMERICAN STORM will make its debut at DB’s inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Friday, Nov. 30. The show will perform Fridays and Saturdays at 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $49.95 plus taxes and fees. Guests must be 18 or older to attend. Men are welcome.
COWBOY CHRISTMAS AND CAR SHOW will be held Saturday, December 1st from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 9200 Tule Springs Road in Floyd Lamb Park. The entire family is invited to enjoy a car show, hay rides, a petting zoo, arts and crafts, games, balloon artists, jump houses, a farmers' market and a visit from Santa. Admission is FREE.
Now through December 7, Suncoast Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas' Ultimate Showman EARL TURNER and the CLARK COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY SERVICES are teaming up for a VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE, collecting gifts for foster children who are aged anywhere from infancy to 18 years. New, unopened and unwrapped toys can be dropped at the B Connected desk at the Suncoast. Based on the value of the donated gift, donors can receive a 2-for-1 buffet; or $5, $7.50, $10, $15 or $20 in free slot dollars for contributing to the drive.
As a testament to Imagine Exhibitions’ commitment to the Las Vegas arts and educational communities, DA VINCI – THE GENIUS is now offering FREE admission for children ages 12 and under accompanied by a paying adult throughout the remainder of the exhibition’s run at The Venetian. “We wanted to thank the local community for their ongoing support of Da Vinci – The Genius,” said Tom Zaller, CEO and Founder of Imagine Exhibitions. “By offering free admission for kids, both returning and first-time visitors have another reason to experience the exhibition before its limited engagement must close on January 27, 2013.”
New York New York Hotel & Casino presents the family-friendly holiday show “CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK.” This limited-time holiday engagement is now open and will run through Dec. 30, 2012, nightly at 7:00 p.m. and selected afternoons at 4:00 p.m. (dark Mondays). Perfect for the entire family, the delightful and enchanting production features the season’s most famous songs includes glittering holiday costumes, the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. Tickets for “Christmas in New York” start at $49.95 each, plus tax and service charges.
After 2 and 1/2 successful years as the headline act in HUMAN NATURE: THE ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF MOTOWN” at Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino, Australia’s sensational singing group, Human Nature, has ended its run at the casino resort. The final performance, their 776th at the historic venue was Sunday night, Sunday, November 25. In addition to fans from all over the world seeing the show, past celebrity attendees include Susan Lucci, Mike Tyson, Shania Twain, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Berry Gordy, Original Supreme Mary Wilson, and Long Island Medium Theresa Caputo.
New York New York Hotel & Casino is giving an expected 100 couples the unique opportunity to say “I do” and proclaim their love on the run during the Zappos.com Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon & ½ Marathon’s RUN THRU WEDDING CEREMONY on Sunday, December 2 at 5:30 p.m.
From the starting line, couples will run alongside their wedding ceremony officiant, Running Reverend Jaime Firzlaff, until they reach the Brooklyn Bridge where the nuptials will take place among waiting family and friends. With this special Run-Thru Wedding in its seventh year, many couples from around the world have made this an annual tradition, renewing their love in Las Vegas.
Non-running family and friends are welcome to attend and watch the ceremony from a designated viewing area at the south end of the bridge. After the couples say “I do,” confetti-filled cannons will signal the start of a new chapter in the lives of the runners as they continue on with the race.
As part of its weekly rotating lineup of renowned headliners, Sin City Comedy at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino is presenting BEN CREED as the featured headliner from November 26th to December 2nd.
Las Vegas entertainers are teaming up with Hard Rock Cafes in support of the Hard Rock International’s 2012 global IMAGINE THERE’S NO HUNGER campaign to combat childhood hunger and poverty around the world. To help bring awareness to the campaign, the sexy men of CHIPPENDALES joined in by wearing the signature limited-edition bracelet which features the powerful message “IMAGINE THERE’S NO HUNGER” for one night in November. Vocalist, comedian and celebrity impressionist, TERRY FATOR and the gorgeous dancers of X BURLESQUE also joined in by wearing the signature limited-edition bracelet.
Donate at your local cafe or on line and receive the Imagine Bracelet. Fans are also encouraged to join in the celebrations around the globe by tweeting, posting or even texting the word IMAGINE to 50555 to donate directly to WhyHunger.org and help feed a hungry child. A portion of the monies raised will be donated to communities on the East Coast affected by Hurricane Sandy.
SAILOR JERRY SPICED RUM will debut “HOLD FAST” documentary films highlighting three local Las Vegas business with a celebratory launch party on Friday, December 7 at COWTOWN GUITARS located at 1009 S. Main Street.
Las Vegans featured in the “Hold Fast” series include Jesse Amoroso of Cowtown Guitars, the Spencer family of Studio 21 Tattoo and Taryn Mumpower and Robin Holt of Pick Your Poison Bake Shop. As part of a nationwide campaign, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum “Hold Fast” videos profile individuals and businesses who have dedicated themselves to mastering their field and then fearlessly pursued its innovation like Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins did with tattooing.
Beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 7, the “Hold Fast” event is open to the public and will feature Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum cocktails, cupcakes from Pick Your Poison Bake Shop and live music. Additionally Hammer and Cycle, Las Vegas’ largest bicycle club will be on hand accepting donations for anyone looking to dispose of old and used bicycles.
After the successful debut of its first “mini exhibition” at November’s event, Da Vinci – The Genius – the most comprehensive exploration of the mind and works of Leonardo da Vinci – will return to Downtown Las Vegas’ First Friday event on Friday, December 7. The full exhibition is on display at Imagine Exhibitions Gallery in The Venetian for a limited engagement through January 27, 2013.
Having a special place in his heart for children, actor-comedian EDDIE GRIFFIN, is conducting a toy drive for the Christmas holidays and is participating in Mike Tyson’ Foundation for the Shade Tree Shelter at the MGM Grand on Dec. 9
COMMONWEALTH, located at 525 E. Fremont St., will celebrate its grand opening on Wednesday, Dec. 12, bringing an inviting new social scene to Downtown Las Vegas. The quintessential 6,000-square-foot cocktail bar is inspired by pre-Prohibition era design and libations; complete with its very own backroom speakeasy. A rooftop bar will offer an experiential setting for live music.
Like the cocktails from the pre-prohibition era; the emphasis will be on fresh ingredients, spices and flavors. The drink menu will feature a collection of the finest spirits and libations, each expertly crafted by one of the top mixologists in the city, Juyoung Kang, and executed by Commonwealth’s experienced bartenders. Commonwealth will be open Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to close and noon to close on Saturday.
The LAS VEGAS IMPROVISATIONAL PLAYERS spread their unique brand of holiday cheer and laughter with an all new comedy and musical improv show on Saturday, December 15 at 7:00 pm. The “clean-burning” improvised comedy show will be held at the American Heritage Academy, located at 6126 South Sandhill Road in Las Vegas. Tickets are only $10 and available for purchase at the door which opens at 6:40 p.m.
Celebrity Sightings:
Friday, Nov. 16...
Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, guitarist for Guns N' Roses, started off the weekend festivities with a special acoustic session at Vinyl Thal teamed up with singer Tony Harnell of TNT for the late night performance. The excited crowd sang along as the duo played several covers in the intimate venue. Among the audience were fellow Guns N’ Roses band members DJ Ashba, Richard Fortus and Dizzy Reed.
Dizzy Reed, Ron Bumblefoot Thal and DJ Ashba play poker at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Photo credit: Scott Harrison/ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Tony Harnell and Bumblefoot at Vinyl
Photo credit: Karen Mandall/ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Saturday, Nov. 17...
Twilight heartthrob Alex Meraz celebrated the release of "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2" at Meatball Spot at Town Square. Meraz arrived with wife Kim on his arm.
Also dining at Meatball Spot was Britney Spears' manager, Larry Rudolph.
Alex Meraz enjoying a pizza with Chef Carla Pellegrino at Meatball Spot.
Photo Credit: Jeff Ragazzo
Alex Meraz with wife, Kim Meraz, at Meatball Spot.
Photo Credit: Jeff Ragazzo
Guns N Roses showed their Sin City spirit by hosting a blackjack tournament prior to their show at The Joint. Several band members played in the tournament along with lucky radio winners and loyal casino VIPs.
Later that night, the band put away the cards and surprised guitarist Richard Fortus and keyboardist Chris Pitman for their birthdays as they presented them with a massive custom-made cake adorned with the Guns N’ Roses logo, guitars, guitar picks and piano décor representing Pitman's and Fortus' roles in the legendary rock group.
Richard Fortus, Chris Pitman, Ron Bumblefoot Thal, Frank Ferrer, Dizzy Reed, DJ Ashba, Tommy Stinson
Photo credit: Scott Harrison/ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Richard Fortus and Chris Pitman of Guns N' Roses Birthday Suprise
Photo credit: Scott Harrison/ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
The opener for the weekend of shows was popular metal band Filter. Following its performance, Guns N’ Roses took the stage led by front man Axl Rose for a one-of-a-kind concert experience produced by AEG Live.
Tuesday, Nov. 20...
Grammy-nominated singer Trey Songz channeled his philanthropic spirit, volunteering at Three Square Food Bank.
Songz and his team of approximately 10 people took a tour of the facility and learned about programs and services that help more than 300,000 food insecure individuals in Southern Nevada. Songz and his group spent time packing bags that support clients of Three Square’s Senior Share program, which provides supplemental groceries to seniors living with chronic health conditions.
In 2010 Songz founded Angels with Heart Foundation, a call-to-arms to engage his fans to make a positive impact in their communities. Club members, known as “Trey’s Angels,” are often called upon to give back through random acts of kindness by donating their time and efforts to support their respective cities.
Trey Songz at Three Square Bank
Photo credit: Three Square Food Bank
Friday night, Nov. 23, Chuy from Chelsea Lately, along with a small group of friends, was spotted enjoying an early dinner at LAVO Italian Restaurant.
On Saturday, Nov. 24...
Recording artist, Ryan Cabrera dined at the new Meatball Spot. Just tables away was "System of a Down" drummer Dolmayan. Returning for a second time on Saturday, was BMX rider, Lavin with a couple of friends.
Also making an appearance at the new hot spot was professional boxer Zab Judah and his family.
On Sunday afternoon, Nov. 25,"Jersey Shore" star, DJ Pauly D, took a break from his GTL routine to dine at Meatball. The self-proclaimed "Guido" was joined by Gerard "Big Jerry" Gialanella and a group of friends.
DJ Pauly D dining at the new Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
Ryan Cabrera enjoying a pepperoni and pineapple pizza at Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
Monday night, Nov. 26, Renowned chef and owner of Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood, Rick Moonen. Stratosphere headliner Frankie Moreno, Tropicana Las Vegas headliner Murray Sawchuck and wife Chloe Crawford of Luxor Hotel and Casino’s “Fantasy.” were in attendance at the grand opening of celebrity chef, Carla Pellegrino's new Meatball Spot at Town Square Las Vegas.
Carla Pellegrino and Rick Moonen
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
Carla Pellegrino, Murray Sawchuck and Chloe Louise Crawford
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
Tom Recine, Carla Pellegrino and Jesse Chen prepare to cut the ribbon
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
Frankie Moreno enjoys a meatball
Photo Credit: Meatball Spot
