By Judy Thorburn
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Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Entertainment Reporter/Film Critic - Las Vegas Tribune
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
www.theflickchicks.com
Here’s Wishing Everyone A Very Safe and Happy Thanksgiving
2009 Miss Nevada USA®, Miss Nevada Teen USA® Crowned
Last Saturday, in front of a packed house of more than 500 fans, family and friends, Georgina Vaughan, 20, of Summerlin, Nevada was crowned Miss Nevada USA 2009 and Ileri Tunrarebi, 18 of Henderson, Nevada was crowned Miss Nevada Teen USA 2009 during the 2009 pageants at the College of Southern Nevada’s Horn Theater.
Georgina Vaughan, 20, of Summerlin, Nevada
Ileri Tunrarebi, 18 of Henderson, Nevada
Vaughan competed against 21 girls aged 18 to 26, while Tunrarebi competed against 11 teens aged 15-18. Vaughan has previously held the title of Miss Nevada Teen USA 2006. Tunrarebi has previously held titles of National American Miss Nevada Junior Teen 2005 and National American Miss Teen Nevada 2007.
Contestants from all across Nevada participated in the pageant’s Swimsuit, Evening Wear and Interview competitions. Vaughan will represent Nevada and the Miss Universe Organization in numerous appearances, interviews and events throughout the year culminating with the 58th Annual Miss USA 2009 competition to be held at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas April 19, 2009.
Tunrarebi will make teen-appropriate appearances and interviews, similar to the Miss USA competition, while being a positive role model for the youth of Nevada. Her reign will culminate with the 27th Annual Miss Teen USA 2009 competition at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas in summer 2009.
For more information on the Miss Nevada USA or Miss Nevada Teen USA competition, visit them online at www.theatwellgrousp.com.
Peep Show Starring Mel B and Kelly Monaco to Premiere at Planet Hollywood in Spring of 2009
During a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, BASE Entertainment, producers of PHANTOM – The Las Vegas Spectacular and Wayne Brady Making It Up at the Venetian and JERSEY BOYS at the Palazzo, along with Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Jerry Mitchell, announced their collaboration - a lavish multi-million dollar adult show called PEEP SHOW set to open at Planet Hollywood in the Spring of 2009. PEEPSHOW is a modern burlesque show created specifically for Las Vegas audiences. The highly stylized, full-throttle production show that combines sexy striptease and celebrity with high-level production values and a dash of passion, will star Spice Girl/pop sensation Mel B, originating the role as the mistress of ceremonies, the “Peep Diva,” and TV siren Kelly Monaco, taking the stage as “Bo Peep,” a timid girl who the Diva guides in her transformation into a confident, sensual woman.
Kelly Monaco and Mel B
Photo credit: Tom Donoghue
In addition to choreography and direction from Mitchell, also on board lending their creative talents are acclaimed designers David Rockwell designing the lavish sets and Showroom, and Tony award-winning designer Gregg Barnes’ seductive costumes. Topping it off, the show will be backed by a powerhouse all-female band pumping out an engaging, contemporary soundtrack.
PEEPSHOW will begin preview performances at Planet Hollywood on March 30, 2009, with an opening night gala planned for April 18 of 2009. Tickets are now on sale for preview and regular performances. Tickets range from $65 - $100 + tax, with a VIP package available at $165 + tax per person. The VIP package includes premium seating at one of the PEEPSHOW cabaret tables and includes tableside bottle service.
Preview performance ticket prices: From March 30 – April 17, 2009 tickets range from $59 - $91 + tax with the VIP package available at $149 + tax per person.
Ethel’s 15th Annual Holiday Cactus Lighting
On Tuesday evening, November 18, George Wallace was the celebrity emcee for Ethel M’s 15th Annual Holiday Cactus Lighting event, a VIP invitation only event that featured holiday entertainment and, of course, an array of Ethel’s gourmet chocolates. Wallace kicked off the holiday season by counting down to the lighting of the Cactus Garden with guest entertainers Clint Holmes and Zowie Bowie.
Zowie Bowie, Kelly Clinton, Clint Holmes and George Wallace
After 650,000 lights lit up the garden, Clint Holmes and Zowie Bowie performed a few holiday favorites to a crowd of over 800 people. Also during the event, Ethel’s presented Susan G. Komen for the Cure with a check for $10,000 celebrating the launch of the Create Chocolate, Create Hope limited edition collection. The theme for Create Chocolate Create Hope is how chocolate can create hope for a cure for breast cancer.
The Holiday Cactus Garden opened to the public on Wednesday evening, November 19 and will be open through January 1, 2009 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., excluding Christmas Day. The attraction, which has become a Las Vegas tradition, is FREE to the public and located at 2 Cactus Garden Drive in Henderson.
Hard Rock Hotel Hosts First Fight Club Charity Boxing Tournament
On Wednesday evening, November 19 the first Fight Club Charity Boxing Tournament was held inside The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel. The event attracted more than 850 onlookers and fans that came out to watch amateur fighters lace up their gloves and battle it out for a good cause in support of the world’s leading cleft charity, Smile Train and Barry’s Boxing, a nonprofit organization in association with USA Boxing. As a result of the event, more than $15,000 was raised for the charities. Guests included: Carey Hart, professional skateboarders Tony Hawk and Bucky Lasek and New York Yankee Jason Giambi.
Jason Ellis
Photo credit: Hard Rock Hotel - © Erik Kabik/ RETNA
Tony D'Ambrosio
Photo credit: Hard Rock Hotel - © Erik Kabik/ RETNA
Tony Hawk and Carey Hart
Photo credit: Hard Rock Hotel - © Erik Kabik/ RETNA
The evening comprised of 10 boxing bouts with three rounds in each match. The final bout was between Las Vegas local Brett Cooke and Sirius Radio personality and pro MMA wrestler Jason Ellis of the Jason Ellis Show on Sirius 28 Faction. Proud winners included Steve Cyr of Hard Rock Poker Lounge, John Thomason of the N9NE Group, John Taylor of Syrup Swimwear, Justen Crews of Body English, Eric Noe of Body English, Ryan Heapy of Tao, Tony D’Ambrosio of Hard Rock Hotel, Jason Craig of N9NE Group, Greg Costello of the Hard Rock Nightlife Group and for the final match, Jason Ellis of Sirius Radio.
Lance Bass Launches Weekend Beaujolais Nouveau celebration at Paris Las Vegas
At midnight on the morning of Thursday, November 20th Lance Bass, current finalist on ABC’s hit show “Dancing with the Stars,” and member of the phenomenally successful pop group NSYNC, flipped the switch lighting the 50-story replica of the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas Beaujolais red. Bass’s appearance launched the weekend long Beaujolais Nouveau celebration that includes special events, tastings and unique Beaujolais Nouveau pairings.
Lance Bass and Georges Duboeuf Export Director
The first cask of wine was delivered to the resort via air by Stars and Stripes Air Tours and received by Georges Duboeuf Can-Can dancers. Assisted by esteemed Duboeuf Export Director and wine connoisseur Yann Bourigault, Bass offered the first toast of the 2008 vintage Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau wine cask before flipping the switch that kicked off the celebration. This year Paris Las Vegas has partnered with Georges Duboeuf, the number one producer of Beaujolais wines in the world.
The following is some background history regarding the event. Honoring the long tradition regulated by French law, Beaujolais Nouveau is released no sooner than the third Thursday of November, when it is ready for consumption just six weeks after the harvest. Thus, at one minute past midnight, huge celebrations are held all over the world to taste the latest wine of the harvest. More than 65 million bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau will be consumed in the months to follow.
Latin Star Jose Jose Honored by Las Vegas Walk of Stars
On Thursday, November 20 in the Masquerade Showroom at the Rio, International Latin star José José was presented with congressional honors by Senator Harry Reid’s Office. The talented singer/actor was also honored with a commemorative star (the 34th installation) on the Las Vegas Walk of Stars for his extraordinary career achievements. The star will be placed in the sidewalk of the Paris Hotel & Casino at a later date. During the ceremony José José was serenaded by the Las Vegas Mariachi. The well-attended event was followed by José José signing his new autobiographical book “José José: Esta es mi vida.”
Jose Jose - Photo credit: Latin Market Professionals
Planet Hollywood Hosts World Premiere of Transporter 3
On Friday evening, November 20, The World Premiere screening of the new action thriller Transporter 3 was held inside the Stomp Out Loud Theatre at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Walking the red carpet was the star of the film Jason Statham and two of his co-stars, Russian born Natalya Rudakova and Robert Knepper, who plays the villain. Also in attendance was Sylvester Stallone and Las Vegas headliner/ hypno-magician Keith Barry. You can read my review of Transporter 3 at www.theflickchicks.com. after the film is released nationwide on November 26, 2008.
Jason Statham
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Natalya Rudakova
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Robert Knepper
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Sylvester Stallone
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Keith Barry
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Robert Knepper, Natalya Rudakova and Jason Statham
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
On Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 3:30pm-5:00pm, Multiple James Beard Award Winning and Celebrity Chef, Charlie Trotter of Restaurant Charlie at The Palazzo presented a new and exciting form of cooking to specially invited guests. Chef Trotter did a demo and discussed how kaiseki and omikase influence the cuisine of Bar Charlie, offering insights into his latest dining concept that is a bold and innovative addition to the world of gastronomy.
With Bar Charlie, the evolution of cocktail pairing was explored from its inception in Chicago at Charlie Trotter’s to where it has evolved into the most progressive and dynamic mixology program in the United States. Following the demonstration, guests were able to dine on a multi-course menu and cocktail pairing in Bar Charlie that included Spanish Bluefin Tuna with Hijiki Seaweed & Daikon Radish, Tasmanian Ocean Trout with Fennel & Barley, and Stewed Plum with Quinoa & Fig Ice Cream.
Friday, Nov. 28, from 2-6 p.m., as well as 1 - 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29 and Sunday Nov. 30, Gallery of Legends, the celebrity and sports memorabilia store inside Miracle Mile Shops, is hosting a series of meet and greet and autograph signing sessions with Richard Kiel and Maud Adams. Adams is best known for her roles as one of the most popular “Bond girls” of all time in the James Bond movie series (The Man with the Golden Gun and Octopussy) while Kiel is remembered as “Jaws” from the same series. (The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker). For more information, please contact Gallery of Legends at 702.471.8300.
Two female tiger sharks, the only tiger sharks available for viewing in the U.S., can now be seen in the waters at Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. These exciting new additions can be identified by their distinct tiger-striped markings in the 1.6-million-gallon aquarium. We are delighted to unveil these powerful predators to our guests of Shark Reef Aquarium,” said Adrienne Rowland, the facility’s director. “The tiger sharks demonstrate Shark Reef’s goal to raise awareness and appreciation of our world’s fascinating marine life.” The tiger sharks join an impressive group of animals at Shark Reef Aquarium, a 90,560-square-foot, predator-based aquarium, the only one of its kind in North America. Since its debut in 2000, Shark Reef Aquarium has become a must-see Las Vegas attraction and educational facility, where adults and children alike can enjoy and learn about more than 2,000 divinely dangerous animals including a rare Komodo dragon, a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, crocodiles and piranhas. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday - Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Ticket prices are $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children; children four and under are free. Discounts are available for Nevada residents with valid ID.
Volcom, a fashion–forward retailer, just opened its first shop in Las Vegas inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Volcom features young men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and related products. Inspired by snowboarding and skateboarding, the store location touts t-shirts, fleece, jackets, board shorts, denim, outerwear and more.
This Thanksgiving, November 27 from 9 am to 3 p.m. during its Shoulder The Burden event, Calvary Chapel Spring Valley, located at 7174 W. Oquendo Road, will serve a holiday feast and provide the homeless and individuals in need throughout Las Vegas with essential living items and services. As part of the event, the church will distribute new backpacks filled with everyday essentials such as personal hygiene items, gloves, beanie hats and snacks, in addition to providing services such as haircuts, showers, clothing, legal services, medical care and dental screenings for individuals in need. For additional information or to volunteer, please visit www.ccspringvalley.org or call 702-362-9000.
Tickets are now on sale for 2007’s America’s Got Talent Winner, celebrity impressionist, singer, comedian and ventriloquist Terry Fator’s show at his new home at the Mirage in early 2009.
Preview performances for Terry Fator and his cast of thousands are scheduled to begin February 14, 2009. Regularly scheduled performances begin March 17, 2009 with tickets priced at $59, $79, $99 and $129, excluding tax and service fees. The $129 ticket will include preferred seating, a photo souvenir and front-line access to a meet-and-greet with Fator after the show. Meet-and-greets will take place nightly inside the Terry Fator Retail Store. Performances will be Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in The Terry Fator Theatre.
On Saturday, December 5 at 8 p.m. audiences will flashback to the 1980’s when Grammy nominated songstress Teena Marie, legendary groups Morris Day & The Time and Cameo, and Bo Benton perform at Orleans Arena. Tickets are priced at $35 and $50, including all taxes and fees.
On Saturday, December 6, at 8 p.m., The UNLV Performing Arts Center ushers in the holidays with David Benoit’s A Charlie Brown Christmas at 8 p.m. Benoit – a five-time Grammy nominee, contemporary jazz pianist, and Peanuts composer will perform a collection of holiday favorites and Peanuts classics by legendary Vince Guaraldi, including the instantly recognizable “Linus and Lucy.” Tickets are $30, $45, and $75 (not including $1 facilities fee) and can be purchased at the Performing Arts Center Box Office at 895-ARTS (2787) or by visiting pac.unlv.edu. Student rush tickets are $13 each and available one hour prior to each event, based on availability.
Saturday, Dec. 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage will host a closed circuit viewing of the upcoming “Dream Match” between the ‘Golden Boy’ Oscar De La Hoya and Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao. The live telecast will begin at 6 p.m. PST. at Circus Circus, TI, Monte Carlo, Excalibur, Luxor and New York-New York. All general admission tickets (limited to eight (8) per person) for the closed circuit telecast are priced at $60 not including handling fees.
From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., December 21. In celebration of its 30th birthday, Morton’s The Steakhouse will be serving guests at Bar 12-21 complimentary mini cheeseburgers made with USDA Prime Beef, cheddar cheese, tomato slices, iceberg lettuce and onion served on silver dollar rolls from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Morton’s The Steakhouse in Las Vegas is located at 400 East Flamingo Road. Hours are 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.
Fortuna, “A coffee and wine experience” located in the hotel lobby of the Las Vegas Hilton is offering complimentary wine tastings daily from 4 – 9 p.m.
Tickets are now on sale for impressionist, singer and entertainer Gordie Brown’s new show that begins February 5, 2009 at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Brown will perform with a live band in the newly renamed Gordie Brown Showroom, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $39.95 to $99.95 for front row VIP tickets, which include an artist meet and greet. The Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino announced Brown’s signing to a multi-year headlining contract in September.
Celebrity sightings:
Thursday night, November 20 Actress Alyssa Milano laughed it up at The Comedy Festival at Caesars Palace. She was spotted looking on to the live web chat from the festival’s signature LOL Lounge.
Friday night, November 21, Jamie Foxx, a crew of guys and a bevy of beauties were dancing to the sounds of DJ Five at LAVO inside The Palazzo. Decked out in diamond studded sunglasses and a black scarf, Foxx was spotted standing on a couch dancing and singing until the moment Bell Biv DeVoe’s “Poison” blasted across the club, at which point the group broke into a dance routine.
Also choosing LAVO on Friday was Brian Baumgartner from the hit TV series The Office who was accompanied by a blue eyed brunette. The two dined on the Strip front hookah terrace and relaxed with a few drinks before heading upstairs to a table on the dance floor.
Sylvester Stallone was spotted enjoying dinner at Strip House inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. He also walked the Red Carpet leading into the World premiere screening of the new action thriller Transporter 3 where he sat three rows behind yours truly.
Comedian Wayne Brady had dinner at CUT inside The Palazzo.
Saturday night at legendary nightclub Studio 54 at MGM Grand, soccer sensation David Beckham joined Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton to celebrate his victory to Paulie Malignaggi directly after the highly anticipated boxing match. Also in the packed house were Liam and Noel Gallagher of the popular band Oasis. Beckham, Hatton and the Gallagher brothers were joined by a large entourage of the boxer’s family and closest friends.
Also spotted at Studio 54 for the after hours party “Late Night 54” was Matt Garza, starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays.
Saturday night at LAVO inside The Palazzo, Matisyahu, the Orthodox Jewish rap, reggae and rock artist celebrated following his sold out concert. Accompanied by a large entourage and many fans, he and his wife took a moment to enjoy the Las Vegas Strip from LAVO’s expansive terrace.
Actor Jon Hamm, star of “Mad Men”, along with five of his friends, was spotted inside Tao Las Vegas.
David Beckham made a surprise appearance at Nobu restaurant inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Along with an intimate group of friends, the English soccer star enjoyed a late dinner around 11:30 p.m., which lasted almost three hours.
Heavyweight championship Lennox Lewis was spotted at the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill inside MGM Grand for an early dinner Saturday evening.
Hayden Panettiere, star of the TV series “Heroes”, was spotted backstage at the new Latin sensation, “Fuego Raw Talent,” at the Sahara Hotel and Casino.
Kara Monaco, Playmate of the Year 2006, and Janine Habeck, Germany’s Playmate of the Year 2005 hosted a party at Tabú Ultra Lounge in the MGM Grand.
Sunday evening, November 23, World Boxing Association Welterweight Champion Ricy Hatton dined at Morton's The Steakhouse.
Also spotted in the restaurant was Mechad Brooks, co-star of HBO’s True Blood, dining with friends.
I will be back next week with more of what’s “happening” in and around Las Vegas.
