Las Vegas Weekly

November 13, 2009 · 2:28 PM

Photo Gallery: NVCI’s Rock for the Cure a star-studded gala

By Robin Leach

Larry King and Aubrey O'Day at the Nevada Cancer Institute's Rock for the Cure gala at The Mirage on Nov. 12, 2009.

Photo: Raul Morales/Cashman Photography

Stars from Hollywood and the Strip turned the 8th Annual Nevada Cancer Institute Rock for the Cure gala into a glittering success last night. CNN anchor Larry King, who has been master of ceremonies every year of the nonprofit’s biggest annual fundraising effort, welcomed prominent business executives in Nevada to The Mirage event, with proceeds going to support the NVCI’s cancer research program.

Larry found a welcoming face upon his arrival to the pink carpet when he was greeted by 2009 Miss USA Kristen Dalton of North Carolina. After Larry’s controversial interview with former Miss California Carrie Prejean this week, he simply hugged the pageant queen and chatted before posing for photos together.

Larry told reporters on the pink carpet: “I think anybody who has made it, whatever ‘made it’ is, deserves to give something back.”

Aubrey O’Day, former Danity Kane singer and current star of Peepshow at Planet Hollywood, wore a colorful one-shoulder, asymmetrical, glitter mini-dress to tie in with the disco party theme of the night. She posed for cameras and told reporters that of all the events in Las Vegas, Rock for the Cure was the one she most wanted to attend.

She said, “I’m a huge supporter of cancer research. I’ve had a few members of my family die from cancer, breast cancer in particular. Everybody is gathering together to support a very good cause.”

Also walking the pink carpet was America’s Got Talent winner and Mirage headliner Terry Fator. He gave a surprise performance at the end of the evening, amazing the crowd with his celebrity singing impressions and ventriloquism.

Photo: Raul Morales/Cashman Photography

Jim and Heather Murren at the Nevada Cancer Institute's Rock for the Cure gala at The Mirage on Nov. 12, 2009.

He commented: “I think the point of being a celebrity is not only to be able to entertain people but to give back to the community and help in any way we can. I’m just absolutely honored when I’m able to use my position to help others.”

NBC talk show host and stand-up comedy legend Jay Leno also entertained the 900-plus guests with timely jokes from this week’s news. After he closed the evening, the disco-themed dance party had everybody on the dance floor.

There were silent and live auctions with some coveted items: a tour of Jay’s personal car collection and front row seats to his TV show; dinner with Eva Longoria Parker at her new restaurant Beso opening in Crystals at CityCenter; and tickets to the American Idol finale. Plus, a raffle for a 2010 XJ Jaguar, including a trip to England to design and accessorize the exclusive ride.

Photo: Raul Morales/Cashman Photography

Miss USA Kristen Dalton at the Nevada Cancer Institute's Rock for the Cure gala at The Mirage on Nov. 12, 2009.

Heather Murren, NVCI founder and honoree at last night’s event, said, “To date, our galas have raised more than $20 million over the years to build the cancer research center for the state of Nevada, to help families with cancer and hopefully one day to find a cure for this disease.”

Heather was given a standing ovation before and after her speech recognizing her dedication and commitment in helping take the institute from a dream in 2002 to the three-building campus it is today.

Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 years and has spent the past decade giving readers the inside scoop on Las Vegas, the world’s premier platinum playground.

Follow Robin Leach on Twitter HERE.

Follow Vegas DeLuxe on Twitter HERE.

Follow VDLX Editor Don Chareunsy on Twitter HERE.

Share This