By Judy Thorburn
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Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
www.theflickchicks.com
Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower Hosts Famous Cowboy, Cowgirl & NASCAR Driver Lookalike Contest
Country and NASCAR fans came out to The Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower, for their Famous Cowboy, Cowgirl and NASCAR® Driver Lookalike Contest on Thursday, December 2 inside Images Lounge.
Winter Wonderland Arrives At Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
In celebration of the winter season, Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Garden unveiled a spectacular holiday display rich in nostalgia and filled with picture-perfect botanical creations that is on view December 3 through January 2, 2011.
The Palazzo Las Vegas Unveils Natural Woodland-Inspired Winter Display
In celebration of the holiday season, on December 8 an enchanting winter garden was unveiled at The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium.
Mayor Oscar Goodman Flips the Switch for Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fremont Street Experience
The holiday season kicked off at the Fremont Street Experience when Mayor Oscar B. Goodman flipped the switch to light Las Vegas’ official Christmas tree on Wednesday evening, December 8.
ROK VEGAS hosts Rock N’ Roll Wine’s Winter Bash
ROK Vegas at New York-New York played host to Rock ‘n Roll Wine’s Winter Bash on Thursday, December 9.
MGM Resorts Entertainers Bring Truck-Loads of Toys & a Surprise Donation to KLUC's Annual Toy Drive
MGM Resort entertainers showed up with donations at KLUC’s Annual Toy Drive.
Lady Gaga’s Wax Likeness Unveiled at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
In a tribute to the unique performer, on December 9 Lady Gaga’s Las Vegas wax replica was unveiled at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas by Mayor Oscar Goodman.
Sinatra Dance With Me Premiers at Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas
Had he lived, Frank Sinatra would have turned 95 on December 12. To celebrate and honor the beloved crooner and Las Vegas icon’s birthday, SINATRA Dance With Me held its premiere performance in the Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas on December 11, 2010 for a limited engagement.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
RHUMBAR, the plush cocktail and cigar lounge at the Mirage welcomed the Seaworld Outreach Program and its newest kangaroo, Jirra on Friday, December 3. The Seaworld Outreach Program brings animal education and understanding to cities without a Seaworld park.
Photo credit: Mirage Casino Resort
Photo credit: Mirage Casino Resort
On December 4, Bully Breed Couture Clothing and Accessory Company Bo & DeeMo co-sponsored a pet food drive that took place at Bogart’s Bone Appetit located on W. Tropicana and Fort Apache. On hand to lend their support was the legendary “Pitbull of Comedy” Bobby Slayton and the self proclaimed “Princess of Porn” Sunset Thomas. Over 2000 lbs. of cat, dog food and crates and harnesses and treats were donated. The food and items raised will be distributed by Helping Hands of Vegas Valley, who specializes in helping Low Income Seniors with food, driving to appointments, and more!
Tuesday, December 14, Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman presented Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) Executive Director Jennifer Morss with a key to the city in recognition of the tireless work the organization provides to the community and state of Nevada as a whole. The oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada, AFAN offers unyielding commitment to the community by providing unparalleled health expertise, support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada.
Together, Jennifer and her team have accomplished great things for the HIV community: increased private fund raising; increased corporate sponsorships; enhanced efficient programmatic infrastructure; increased federal, state, and local government grants; and Jennifer’s life goal, decreasing HIV-related stigma and discrimination. With continued efforts and help from the community, Morss and AFAN help reduce HIV infection through prevention education, which eliminates fear, prejudice and the stigma associated with the disease.
Photos attached courtesy of AFAN.
Beginning Monday, December 6, locals who present a valid Nevada ID will receive 35% off tickets for Jabbawockeez, the world-famous dance crew’s new groundbreaking show “MÜS.I.C.” at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. The new “Love for Locals” offer is subject to availability and certain restrictions may apply. Described as an audio-visual story of inspiration brought to life through the harmonization of sound and movement, “MÜS.I.C.” is a show the entire family can enjoy. Jabbawockeez perform “MÜS.I.C” Thursday – Saturday at 9:30 p.m. and Sunday-Monday at 7:30 p.m.
The Venetian Poker Room hosted the third-annual “All In For CP” celebrity charity poker tournament to benefit the One Step Closer Foundation on Saturday, Dec. 11. Celebrities and professional poker players gathered together in support of finding a cure for cerebral palsy. Read guest writer Burt Davis’ article from the red carpet in this week’s edition of www.lasvegasroundtheclock.com.
Philanthropist Elaine Wynn has donated $5 million to establish The Elaine Wynn Studio for Arts Education at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts. The gift is the largest contribution from any individual to The Smith Center, a $470 million performing arts and education center in downtown Las Vegas. “This contribution exemplifies Mrs. Wynn's decades-long commitment to enhancing life for all Las Vegans and her specific focus on education which has been nothing short of extraordinary" said Donald D. Snyder, Chairman of the Board of The Smith Center.
The Elaine Wynn Studio will include classrooms, conference rooms and offices for education program staff, interns and artists in residence. It will be housed in the five-story, 70,000 square-foot Boman Pavilion. The building's two performance spaces, a studio theater and cabaret theater, will also be used for children's theater and educational programming.
Cris Angel celebrated the 1,000th performance of his show “Believe” at Luxor on Saturday night, December 11.
H&M, Hennes & Mauritz, the international fashion retailer known for offering fashion-forward apparel and quality basics, opened the largest H&M location in the world at The Forum Shops at Caesars at 10.a.m on Dec. 11.
Phantom—The Las Vegas Spectacular cast members Sarah Elizabeth Combs and Patrick Leveque will be a part of a holiday quartet at Crystals at CityCenter December 11 & 12 and 18 & 19. The quartet will perform from noon to 5 p.m., on the hour, every hour for fifteen minutes. Local Las Vegas children, including “On with the Show” children’s choir, will also join the performers to spread holiday joy with music to shoppers.
Four-time Grammy-winning R&B group Boyz II Men will mark their first-ever extended engagement on the famed Las Vegas Strip when they open at Flamingo Las Vegas on Dec. 14 for a four-week seasonal celebration in the legendary Flamingo Showroom. Show time is 7:30 p.m. each night and show dates will be Dec. 14 – 18, 21 – 24, 26, 28 – 30 and Jan. 1 – 2 and 5 – 9. Ticket prices are $59, $79 and $125 plus taxes and fees. The $125 ticket includes a VIP Meet ‘n Greet with the group.
Smashburger, a nationally acclaimed “better burger” restaurant, opened its fourth Las Vegas location on Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2010. Located at 4725 S. Maryland Parkway, it is the fourth Las Vegas location for Smashburger and franchise partner SB Las Vegas LLC, with additional locations on the horizon for 2011. All stores are open daily from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. As with all Las Vegas locations, the Maryland Parkway location will feature the popular regional menu items including the Sin City Smashburger and the Caramel Häagen-Dazs shake. “Las Vegas has continued to support Smashburger and we’re excited to expand so quickly as we become Las Vegas’ favorite place for burgers,” says Smashburger Founder Tom Ryan.
To get in the spirit of the season, The Silverton Casino Lodge is hosting a Hideous Holiday Sweater Party 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18 Inside Veil Pavilion. Attendees can boast their ugliest and most festive holiday wear while enjoying live band karaoke, drink specials, beer pong and even an eggnog chugging contest. iPads and iPhones are among the contest prizes. Guests must be 21 years or older.
To commemorate Elvis’ birthday Cannery Casino & Hotel presents “A Celebration of the King’s Life” featuring special performances by Johnny Fortuno, The Stamps Quartet as well as close friends and co-stars of the late Elvis Presley. The concert will take place on Friday, January 7 and Saturday, January 8 and begins at 8 p.m. at The Club inside Cannery Casino & Hotel. Admission is just $10 at the door.
The Cannery Row Buffet will also participate in the celebration with a special section featuring all of Elvis’ favorite foods such as deep fried pickles, southern fried chicken, smothered pork chops, collard greens, green bean casserole, ham hocks, and potato & cheese soup. Other activities taking place throughout the weekend will include memorabilia and fan club displays.
Comedienne Lisa Lampanelli, aka, the lovable “queen of mean”, is set to perform at The Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Casino Resort on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $49.50 plus additional service fees.
The Miss America Organization has announced the highly anticipated return of a beloved tradition, the Miss America Parade, renamed the “DSW Show Us Your Shoes Parade” presented by DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse! The parade will be hosted by Robin Leach, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies. In addition, there will be a musical performance by Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron, as well as appearances by other special guests and dignitaries. City officials will be on hand to read a proclamation declaring Jan.15, 2011 “Miss America Day” in Las Vegas.
For the first time since 2005, the 2011 Miss America Pageant festivities will include this unique tradition in the host city of Las Vegas, on Friday, Jan. 14, 2011 at the Arc de Triomphe at Paris Las Vegas. The event is open to the public and starts at 12 p.m. PST.
Pinnacle Family of Companies' Nevada operation was the proud recipient of several awards at the Nevada State Apartment Association's (NSAA) "2010 Jewel Awards” including being honored as the Property Management Company of the Year. Pinnacle's other Jewel Award winners include:
Amy Hjerpe - Regional Manager of the Year and Volunteer of the Year
Carlos Orduno of Allanza at the Lakes - Maintenance Tech of the Year
Christian Mayorga of Sedona at Lone Mountain - Maintenance Supervisor of the Year
Troy Perkins of The Boulders at Lone Mountain - Community Manager of the Year
Allanza at the Lakes - Outstanding Onsite Team of the Year
Rancho Mesa - Property of Excellence (1980 through 1999, Over 200 Units)
Rudy Meyer of Gramercy Parc - Holiday Hero
After a critically and commercially successful run as headliner at the Monte Carlo, comedian/impressionist Frank Caliendo has announced that he is leaving the Las Vegas Strip to focus on family and other projects. Tickets for the remaining shows are on sale now.
Criss Angel MINDFREAK – The Official Store at Circus Circus has closed.
Breeze Café - A modern café overlooking ARIA’s pool deck and lush landscaping, has closed for the season.
Celebrity sightings:
Saturday, Dec. 4, National Finals Rodeo fans had the chance to knock back a few beers with PBR World Champion Renato Nunes and PBR Superstar McKennon Wimberly at PBR Rock Bar in the Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood Resort Hotel and Casino.
The “Party With The PBR Riders” bash was hosted by world-famous rodeo clown Flint Rasmussen, who also took part in a best-dressed cowboy or cowgirl contest, wielding a prize of $1,000. Nunes and Wimblerly took time to meet the fans and take a few pictures with the rock bar’s lovely PBR Girls.
Renato Nunez
Photo credit: Joe Torrence
McKennon Wimberly
Photo credit: Joe Torrence
Sunday, December 5, Thiemo de Bakker, professional Dutch tennis player, partied at ghostbar inside Palms Casino Resort.
Wednesday, Dec. 8, Actor Kevin Spacey was spotting having dinner at Strip House inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.
Singer and songwriter, Beardo (real name Jeramy Gritter), performed for Snitch Wednesdays at ghostbar inside Palms Casino Resort.
Thursday night, December 9, Playboy Playmate of the Year 2008 and “The Girls Next Door” star Jayde Nicole got primped and pampered at COLOR: A Salon by Michael Boychuck at Caesars Palace.
Jayde Nicole
Photo credit: Anthony DiBenedetto
Michael Boychuck and Jayde Nicole
Photo credit: Anthony DiBenedetto
Carlos Santana and his fiancée, Cindy Blackman were seen car shopping and having dinner at Texas de Brazil. Santana is currently preparing for his wedding later this month in Hawaii and for his return to The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in 2011
Friday night, December 10...
Reality princess and star of Peepshow Holly Madison hosted the grand opening of Johnny Rockets at the Flamingo Las Vegas. The blonde bombshell was joined by Bettie Page spokes model and fellow Playmate Claire Sinclaire along with five additional Bettie Page beauties. The lovely ladies cut the ribbon to the new Flamingo food court including Bonanno’s Pizzaria, Pan Asian Express and L.A. Subs and welcomed guests to experience the new dining offerings.
Betty Page models Carla Avila, Doris Mayday, Claire Sinclair, Molly Kaiser, TV star Holly Madison, Betty Page models Crystal Taylor and Alex Garcia.
Photo credit: Ethan Miller Getty Images Flamingo
Holly Madison
Photo credit: Ethan Miller Getty Images Flamingo
Saturday night, December 11…
Poker player Chris Ferguson was spotted at Encore’s Surrender Nightclub with eight friends.
Chris Fergusun
Photo Credit: Bryan Steffy
Mekhi Phifer was spotted at TAO Las Vegas after playing in a celebrity poker tournament at The Venetian earlier in the day.
Mehki Phifer
Photo Credit: Al Powers
Over at LAVO Aziz Ansari was spotted celebrating after his show. Ansari was joined by Dan Levy, who opened for him earlier in the night and Alan Yang, a writer on Ansari’s show Parks and Recreation.
Dan Levy, Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang
Photo Credit: Al Powers
Also seen at LAVO was British boxer Audley Harrison with friends.
Audley Harrison
Photo Credit: Al Powers
Former MLB player and manager Pete Rose, accompanied by a group of friends, dined at N9NE Steakhouse inside Palms Casino Resort.
New York Yankee Phil Hughes partied at Moon Nightclub with five friends.
At Rain Nightclub, hip-hop musician Coolio (real name Artis Leon Ivey) partied with a couple lady friends.
Sunday night, December 12, Academy and Grammy award-Winning Actor and Singer Jamie Foxx along with his family and friends celebrated his birthday and release of his fourth album, Best Night of My Life in the Playboy Club inside the Palms Casino Resort. Foxx was presented with a Birthday cake created by Caked Las Vegas as well as a key to the Playboy Club. Jamie hopped on the mic and performed for the sold out crowd some of his new songs.
He also celebrated his birthday in the Hardwood suite, which features a indoor regulation half-basketball court.
Earlier in the evening Foxx and his entourage had dinner at N9NE steakhouse. Afterwards, Foxx did a meet n greet with some radio contest winners inside the Studio at the Palms recording studio.
Jamie Foxx
Photo credit: Denise Truscello
Jamie Foxx birthday cake
Photo credit: Denise Truscello
Jamie Foxx
Photo credit: Denise Truscello
Songstress Kimberly Cole stopped by Sugar Factory at The Mirage. Cole gave everyone hugs before strutting out of the shop with two bags of candy on her arm.
Kimberly Cole
Photo credit: Dave Proctor
Professional Bull Riding stars Luke Snyder, Chris Shivers and Brendon Clark stopped by PBR Rock Bar & Grill at Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the final night of the National Finals Rodeo. The cowboys had a great time at the bar and snapped photos with PBR Rock Bar’s gorgeous PBR Girls.
PBR Bullrider Brendon Clark with PBR Girls Trina Naughton and Jena Carpin
Photo credit: Courtesy of Vegas Icon
PBR 2000 and 2003 World Champion Chris Shivers with PBR Girls Trina Naughton and Jena Carpin
Photo credit: Courtesy of Vegas Icon
PBR Bullriding Star Luke Snyder with PBR Girls Trina Naughton and Jena Carpin
Photo credit: Courtesy of Vegas Icon
Monday, December 13…
Paris Hilton and her gal pal posse including Allison Melnik and three friends were spotted at Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Paris Hilton pictured at Cabo Wabo Cantina in Las Vegas with her new Sugar Factory Champagne Stick Couture Pop.
Photo credit: Carlos Larios
At night, socialite Paris Hilton was spotted at gentlemen’s club Crazy Horse III.
Chris Hansen, reporter, best known as host of NBC’s “To Catch a Predator,” dined at N9NE Steakhouse inside Palms Casino Resort.
NFL linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals, Joey Porter also dined at N9NE Steakhouse.
International recording artist, Sisqo, kicked off his two-week guest appearance in Las Vegas’ sexiest adult revue, FANTASY, at the Luxor. Sisqo was joined on the red carpet by renowned choreographer Silk, the beautiful women of FANTASY, and hilarious prop comedian Carrot Top.
holder, “The Dragon” wrapped up the show with a ballad of his Billboard #1 hit “Incomplete.”
R&B singer, Sisqo, on the red carpet before kicking off his two week guest appearance in Las Vegas’ sexiest adult revue, FANTASY at the Luxor.
Photo credit: Scott Harrison/Rex USA
International recording artist, Sisqo, on the red carpet with the lovely ladies of FANTASY prior to opening night of his two week guest appearance in Las Vegas’ sexiest adult revue, FANTASY at the Luxor.
Photo credit: Scott Harrison/Rex USA