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Robin Leach: Luxe Life
What's your story? If you are a celebrity in Vegas, Robin Leach wants to know.
11.30.10 · 7:26 PM
Photos: The Kingston Trio proves that folk music is forever at South Point
The Kingston Trio formed in 1957 in San Francisco, and although only original founding member Bob Shane is still alive, the group lives on. Bob even made a special appearance onstage at South Point last Friday to sing two great oldies with the current trio of George Grove, Bill Zorn and Rick Dougherty. George has been the essential driving force of the trio for more than 20 years now. The other two original members were Dave Guard, who retired in ... Read more...
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Facebook11.30.10 · 7:15 PM
Exclusive: Engaged! Steve Wynn proposes to Andrea Hissom at Sinatra
Hotel mogul Steve Wynn became engaged to yearlong girlfriend Andrea Hissom at Sinatra in his casino resort Encore last night. I am reliably told that Steve took over a private dining room and made the proposal after a special dinner. She gave him an immediate yes, and I’m told that the two are “deliriously happy.” Andrea is now wearing a massive heart-shaped diamond engagement ring. I am not — repeat not — linking Steve’s engagement ring to the sale of ... Read more...
11.30.10 · 4:58 PM
Strip Scribbles: Showbiz Society honors Louie Anderson at luncheon
It was a double honor for comedian Louie Anderson when the Showbiz Society honored him with a luncheon at Embassy Theater in the downtown Las Vegas Rocks Cafe. Louis Prima Jr. presented the Palace Station headliner with the Louis Prima Award sanctioned by the Prima family in recognition of outstanding entertainers who have added to the Entertainment Capital of the World’s notoriety. Past recipients include Tony Curtis — the first — Clint Holmes and Bill Medley. Louie has performed here ... Read more...
11.30.10 · 3:32 PM
Photos: Vince Neil survives first week of Skating With the Stars
“I wasn’t just sure of it — I knew I was going home,” Motley Crue rocker Vince Neil told me seconds after last night’s Skating With the Stars episode ended. Vince racked up the lowest votes over two weeks of ABC broadcasts and was one of the last two stars standing on thin ice. The Las Vegas resident tried to turn his tango into a triumph, but one spill onto his knee turned all his hard work and determination into ... Read more...
11.30.10 · 10:36 AM
Exclusive: First details of new Strip nightclubs are revealed
Vegas DeLuxe is confirming that the deal between Planet Hollywood and investor/operators of the new nightclub Gallery there has been officially signed, and the opening will be in May. The group will spend $10 million on a makeover of the original nightlife space there. Nightlife czar Billy Richardson, who was one of the original funding investor, is returning this time as managing partner. I have learned that the 17,500-square-foot space will be divided but linked to the new 3,500-square-foot Pussycat ... Read more...
11.29.10 · 1:54 PM
Strip Scribbles: Frank Gehry’s new mammoth and mind-blowing project
When renowned architect Frank Gehry designed the downtown Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, it sparked incredible reaction over its jumbled and unique steel facade and created headlines around the world for its extraordinary design, so much so that for his next project, Frank, 81, is tackling the largest assignment of his career. He’s been charged with the $800 million design of a Guggenheim museum in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, that is 12 times the size of ... Read more...
11.29.10 · 11:13 AM
Vince Neil faces first elimination on Skating With the Stars
Will the tango spell trouble for our hometown rock idol Vince Neil on tonight’s first elimination of the new ABC series Skating With the Stars? Or will the Motley Crue frontman turn the tango into triumph and skate full blast in true rock star style with no rules and wow both the judges and the audience? Vince is on a slippery slope lying bottom of the leader board with just 28 points. He is one point below reality TV star ... Read more...
11.29.10 · 8 AM
Miss Rodeo America Pageant kicks off 2010 NFR in Las Vegas
This is the week on the calendar when Sin City turns into Cowboy Country. Forget about being the Entertainment Capital of the World for 10 days because Las Vegas welcomes the National Finals Rodeo. That means 100,000-plus visitors in Wrangler denims, cowboy boots and wide-brimmed Stetsons. Even Senior Editor John Katsilometes has gotten into the spirit — and fashions — of all the excitement. NFR gets underway officially Thursday, but first up today is the start of the Miss Rodeo ... Read more...
11.29.10 · 7 AM
Behind-the-scenes week begins for Cirque du Soleil productions
For the first time ever, Cirque du Soleil’s top executives have given the public the green light for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the spectacular shows. Until now, it has always been a privileged treat and a prized invitation accorded only to other performers and showbiz stars. For one week, today through Sunday, the doors to backstage are being thrown open to all seven Cirque shows on the Las Vegas Strip. Mindfreak magician Criss Angel will play host at his ... Read more...
11.29.10 · 3:19 AM
Celebrity recap: Regis and Kelly, Roger Waters and JWoww
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Holiday weeks are historically slow in the Entertainment Capital of the World, but tell that to Regis Philbin, Kelly Ripa, Roger Waters and Jenni “JWoww” Farley, and they would likely and respectfully disagree. Live! With Regis and Kelly, with hosts Philbin and Ripa, yesterday kicked off a week of filming at Encore Theater in the Wynn, superstar Garth Brooks’ resident theater, with guests Joel McHale, Nicki Minaj and Las Vegas headliners Jabbawockeez (Monte Carlo) ... Read more...
11.28.10 · 11:18 AM
Photos: JWoww and Roger Mathews smooch up a storm at Studio 54
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Jersey Shore star Jenni “JWoww” Farley and her tattooed, muscle-bound boyfriend Roger Mathews hosted the revelry last night at Studio 54 in MGM Grand, and contributing photographer Scott Harrison was on duty on the red carpet, while Denise Truscello snapped all the action inside the hotspot. Farley looked sexy and sophisticated and turned heads in her little black dress, while Matthews paired his jeans and black T-shirt with a brown jacket upon arrival before ... Read more...
11.27.10 · 10:23 AM
Photos: Roger Waters rebuilds Pink Floyd’s The Wall at MGM Grand
It’s taken 30 years to rebuild The Wall, and after last night’s MGM Grand Garden Arena concert, it was promptly torn down again! The first and last tour by Roger Waters of the Pink Floyd The Wall masterpiece presentation was in 1980. Now Roger is calling his 36-show North American tour Roger Waters: The Wall Live the end — an absolute final farewell, unless there is a highly unlikely reunion down the road with David Gilmour and Nick Mason. The ... Read more...
11.26.10 · 2:29 PM
Strip Scribbles: Las Vegas school choirs join Barry Manilow at the Paris
Las Vegas school choirs are joining Paris headliner and entertainment legend Barry Manilow onstage for some added holiday magic. Each week, Barry will have a new Las Vegas school choir join him onstage during performances. Additionally, Barry has added a holiday-themed section to his critically acclaimed show for the season. Performances now through Dec. 5 will feature the singer-songwriter’s favorite holiday songs along with performances by Clark County School District choirs. The shows also feature new choreography, festive costumes, videos ... Read more...
11.26.10 · 11:46 AM
Were there flying elephants at Circus Circus back in the day?
Las Vegas author Jack Sheehan tells the story of baby elephants once flying at the opening of Circus Circus way back when. I’m certain that he hadn’t imbibed anything — and neither had I! — when he had the crowd at his newest book launching at Piero’s enthralled with the tale. I checked out the story with Elaine Wynn, who remembers the early days of the rival property. She recalled elephants but didn’t remember them flying above the casino. Elaine ... Read more...
11.26.10 · 1:25 AM
Celebrity forecast: Bill Cosby, Roger Waters, Fantasy and JWoww
It may well be time for leftovers when it comes to the big turkey, but when it comes to the Thanksgiving weekend lineup of stars, we’re definitely still on the first course! It’s a perfect holiday recipe, with a mix of music and comedy all weekend long and some sports thrown in for good measure — plus, Fantasy’s fabulous felines add their sexy sparkle to launch their 2011 swimsuit calendar. The weather forecast is really brrrrrr, with overnight temperatures below ... Read more...
11.25.10 · 11:53 AM
Photos: New film Resurrection shoots at Las Vegas Rocks Cafe
The movie Resurrection: The Wrath of Seduction directed by Jeff Ross and co-produced by Angelo Giordano shot on location at Las Vegas Rocks Cafe downtown Tuesday, and Cassi Thomas of Retna was on duty for filming. On the set Tuesday: Frank Vincent (Goodfellas, Casino, Raging Bull); Little Anthony (Anthony Gourdine), Rock and Roll Hall of Famer of Little Anthony and The Imperials; Palace Station comedian headliner Louie Anderson; The History Channel reality TV stars Rick Harrison, Corey Harrison and Austin ... Read more...
11.25.10 · 9:47 AM
Photos: Holly Madison donates to Las Vegas Rescue Mission
Peepshow at Planet Hollywood and Holly’s World star Holly Madison donated blankets and cold weather clothing items to the Las Vegas Rescue Mission yesterday, and contributing photographer Erik Kabik was onsite for our Las Vegas Sweetheart’s act of good will. Also at the rescue mission was 7-year-old Blaze Trumble of Boulder City, who started his blanket drive two years ago and has returned ever since, collecting them and then handing them out to the homeless. Thanksgiving also his birthday, and ... Read more...
11.24.10 · 2:27 PM
President Randy Morton reveals secrets of Bellagio’s success
It’s an incredible and unheard of achievement in the travel and leisure industry. For 10 consecutive years, the Bellagio has not only received numerous prestigious awards, but a decade later, it also is still earning them — and even more. “Ten years ago, we were the only resort in North America with two five-star awards,” President Randy Morton told me. “We were obviously built to last because we’re still winning them — and more. It’s all due to our 8,200 ... Read more...
11.24.10 · 10:52 AM
Photos: Jennifer Grey is the ‘complete package’ in winning DWTS
Dirty Dancing star Jennifer Grey showed that hitting the half-century mark made no difference, as she cleaned up with the prized mirrored disco ball trophy on ABC’s Dancing With the Stars last night — despite suffering from a ruptured disc injured the night before. She grabbed her partner, Derek Hough from the Las Vegas Academy, hugged him and screamed, “We did it!” She admitted earlier in last night’s show: “I really wanted to leave it all on the floor last ... Read more...
11.23.10 · 11 PM
Photos: Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough win Dancing With the Stars
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor After a Season 11 of surprise exits, starting with former Las Vegas headliner David Hasselhoff in Week 1 and ending with singer Brandy last week, it wasn’t too much of a surprise when ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars crowned its 11th winner tonight, actress, front-runner and sentimental favorite Jennifer Grey and her Las Vegas Academy star partner Derek Hough. With this win, Grey becomes the second champion in her 50s, following in the ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 11:28 PM
Photos: No spills, plenty of thrills on Skating With the Stars debut
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor ABC knows not to mess with a successful formula — a TV competition with a goofy host, celebrities dancing, pros performing routines, in-studio singers belting pop and rock hits and a panel of three judges. Yes, it’s Dancing With the Stars, except on ice, and the host has an accent. The six-week Skating With the Stars hosted by British TV personality Vernon Kay debuted last night after Part 1 of Dancing With the Stars’ ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 9:29 PM
Photos: Jennifer Grey, Derek Hough perfection in first night of DWTS finals
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Updated with photo gallery 11/23/10 at 9 a.m. It’s the 10th and final week of Season 11 of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars, and the first night of the two-part finale is the season’s first 1-hour performance episode. The three remaining couples must first dance the redemption round, in which they get to redo their worst routine of the season, according to the judges. The second round tonight is the all-important, make-or-break freestyle. ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 7:28 PM
Celebrity recap: Lifehouse, Kris Allen, A Perfect Circle, Nelly, Bam Margera
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor The weeks leading up to major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas are traditionally quiet in Las Vegas, but there is always something fun to do in town, and this past weekend was no different. L.A. rockers Lifehouse, with heartthrob frontman Jason Wade, and American Idol Season 8 champion Kris Allen hit the stage at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel on Friday. Artist James Rosenquist’s Cervello Spazio Cosmico (Brain Space), commissioned by ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 5:04 PM
Strip Scribbles: Terry Fator to sing national anthem before NASCAR lap
The Mirage headliner Terry Fator will sing the national anthem that precedes the NASCAR Victory Lap on Dec. 2 on The Strip in a U-loop from Planet Hollywood up to the Wynn and back on the west side of The Strip with two pit stops. I’ll emcee the driver introductions and a crowd countdown to start their engines. NASCAR champion Jimmy “Five for Five” Johnson will get to do burnouts between the Palazzo, Wynn and Treasure Island, and then all ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 4:26 PM
Exclusive: Pussycat Dolls jump from Paris to Planet Hollywood
The new Las Vegas Pussycat Dolls burlesque lounge is moving its planned location to another nightclub and hotel. Pussycat Dolls founder and choreographer Robin Antin exclusively confirmed to me yesterday that she will not be opening at the Paris as part of the new mega club Chateau there next spring. Instead, she will be alongside the new nightclub Gallery at the neighboring Planet Hollywood, adding late-night and early morning burlesque entertainment to follow Holly Madison’s Peepshow and also on the ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 3:09 PM
Lou Ruvo Center photos: VIPs, chefs celebrate painting by Rosenquist
There is no question it is an extraordinary work of art and an impressive, modern-day masterpiece. When James Rosenquist unveiled his 20-foot-by-10-foot Brain Space painting at the Frank Gehry-designed Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health on Saturday evening, the 100 privileged guests were speechless. They stood in awe and then broke out in tumultuous applause. Hotel mogul Steve Wynn, who wanted the unique mural to decorate and dominate the Event Center at the downtown clinic, had generously commissioned ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 12:32 PM
Photos: Santa Claus, Wayne Newton kick off Magical Forest season
More than 3 million twinkling lights are now lit up and decorating the Magical Forest, and Walmart and Sam’s Club staffers hung some 6,500 ornaments last week alone to transform Opportunity Village into a sensational Winter Wonderland. It’s the 19th annual holiday festivities for our beloved local charity, and the weekend kickoff, despite gloomy weather, was a huge success, with Mr. Las Vegas Wayne Newton and Santa Claus arriving together by sleigh. Santa even brought the Mrs. with him! The ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 10:14 AM
Exclusive photos: Final dress rehearsals for Triumph at L.V. Hilton
Updated at 11:30 a.m.: The stars and producers of the time-travel spectacular Triumph have postponed tonight’s planned opening for 48 hours. LaRaf manager Candi Cazau explained: “The delay until Wednesday is solely for technical reasons, and we wish to have the audience enjoy a smooth experience as they take part in the interactive portions. We have all the clearances and official approvals in place for the dramatic flying sequences above the audience. We’re just resolving the final audience involvement.” Here’s ... Read more...
11.22.10 · 8:52 AM
Four dances for 3 DWTS finalists; Vince Neil sharpens skating skills
Controversies — and even conspiracy theories — have dogged Dancing With the Stars all season long, and tonight’s first part of the two-night finale is no different. Over the weekend, there was the panic of an FBI investigation into powder delivered to the producers; fortunately, it wasn’t anthrax and only talcum with a threatening letter. And there was the Ohio man shooting at his TV set in disgust when singer Brandy and Le Reve choreographer Maksim Chmerkovskiy were surprisingly eliminated ... Read more...
11.21.10 · 11:31 AM
Photos: Skyline cast celebrates film at Vanity in Hard Rock Hotel
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Actors Donald Faison and Brittany Daniel, stars of the Universal Pictures sci-fi thriller Skyline, celebrated their big-screen film last night at Vanity in the Hard Rock Hotel, and contributing photographer Erik Kabik was onsite to capture the red carpet arrival and party inside the nightclub that celebrates its first anniversary on New Year’s Eve. Faison, known for his turns on TV’s Scrubs and the film Clueless with Alicia Silverstone, was accompanied by his longtime ... Read more...
11.20.10 · 11:06 AM
Photos: Lifehouse and Kris Allen at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Los Angeles rockers Lifehouse were joined by American Idol Season 8 winner Kris Allen last night at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel, and contributing photographer Erik Kabik was on duty for these up close and colorful photo galleries of Jason Wade and his four-man band and the Conway, Ark., singer-songwriter. Wade and his band — Rick Woolstenhulme Jr. on drums and percussion, Bryce Soderberg on bass guitar and Ben Carey on guitar, ... Read more...
11.19.10 · 2:22 PM
Strip Scribbles: Kris Allen performs at Coronado High before The Joint
It’s a very special thank you — and an almost unexpected gesture from a pop star. American Idol winner Kris Allen performs today for students at Coronado High School. His performance precedes his set at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel when he opens tonight for Lifehouse. Las Vegas radio station Mix 94.1 enlisted the singer’s promise to appear at the winning school in a competition among all Clark County public and private schools encouraging students, parents, teachers, faculty ... Read more...
11.19.10 · 12:05 PM
Steve Wynn, James Rosenquist to unveil artwork at Lou Ruvo Center
Contemporary artist James Rosenquist is one of the most celebrated painters of the 20th century. Casino mogul Steve Wynn, who knows a little about art and its investment values, commissioned the world-renowned artist to create a masterpiece for our Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. James will unveil his massive oil-on-canvas painting tomorrow evening to a select group of 100 of the top VIP Las Vegas dignitaries at the downtown facility, where it will hang in the Keep ... Read more...
11.19.10 · 10:52 AM
It’s lights on for Opportunity Village’s 19th Annual Magical Forest
Mr. Las Vegas himself, superstar entertainer Wayne Newton, will flip the switch to light up the start of the 19th Annual Opportunity Village Magical Forest tomorrow evening. It’s the official start of the Las Vegas Valley’s holiday season, and Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus have promised to sleigh-in for the celebrity celebration. Chris Phillips from Zowie Bowie will sing a special selection of holiday favorites, and singer-songwriter George Dare will lead the IT Girls’ performance of his “Run Santa Run” ... Read more...
11.19.10 · 6:50 AM
Celebrity forecast: Rod Stewart, Lifehouse, Jersey Shore’s Vinny
Memo to Rod Stewart: As you wrap up your trial mini-residency this weekend at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace, we are all waiting on pins and needles for your decision to sign on for more shows. Your visit has been a major success, so before you leave town Sunday night, please give us a yes answer. In fact, if you need further validation about Las Vegas, call Garth Brooks at the Wynn. He’s back for another weekend of visits and ... Read more...
11.18.10 · 4:29 PM
Strip Scribbles: Kevin Burke’s memorable night with heckler and $40
It was the worst moment in comedy actor Kevin Burke’s showbiz career, but he turned it into triumph at a cost of just $40! Kevin was performing Defending the Caveman, his one-man show, this week at the Excalibur when he was interrupted by a heckler who became more and more irritated. “Apparently, he just couldn’t stand the fact everybody else was laughing out loud — and he wasn’t,” Kevin told me. “Finally, he created such a disturbance screaming at me, ... Read more...
11.18.10 · 2:32 PM
Photos: The M Resort’s cocktail servers pose for 2011 calendar
Here’s a sneak peek at the soon-to-be-released 2011 M Resort Calendar featuring their very own cocktail cuties. The Best Cocktail Waitresses in a reader poll posed for the calendar at the hotel as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society — a portion of the proceeds from calendar sales goes to the organization. Thanks to contributing photographer Tom Donoghue for these photographs. Cheers! Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 years and has spent the past decade ... Read more...
11.18.10 · 11:45 AM
Former Pussycat Doll Jessica Sutta is coming to a nightclub near you
By Deanna Rilling, Las Vegas Weekly The Doll domination has ended — at least for one Pussycat. Breaking out from the litter is pinup perfection Jessica Sutta, who’s on track to become one of the next vocalists pumping through nightclub speakers. Ahead of her Nov. 21 appearance at Revolution (doors at 10 p.m., $20, locals free), we caught up with the former member of The Pussycat Dolls now clawing her way up the charts while staying grounded with charity work. ... Read more...
11.18.10 · 11:26 AM
Photos: Star chefs turn out for Eating Las Vegas launch at L’Atelier
There’s an old joke about the Oscars: If the bomb goes off, that’s the end of the movie industry! The same could have been true last night when superstar chefs and restaurant owners packed into Joel Robuchon’s L’Atelier in MGM Grand. Joel himself flew in from Paris, and kitchen kings and queens trekked over from Los Angeles. If a bomb had gone off, that would have been the end of the restaurant business here! It was the greatest assemblage of ... Read more...
11.18.10 · 10:58 AM
From Clark County Commission hearings to NPR for Wayne Newton
After a daylong hearing about his plans to turn part of his Shenandoah estate into a new Las Vegas tourist attraction, Wayne Newton is in a different kind of fray today. The singer-entertainer is the special guest along with sharp-witted comedienne Paula Poundstone on the popular NPR radio show Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me, and you can go watch the recording today at the Paris. Wait … Wait takes a fast-paced and irreverent look at current events, including the ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 5 PM
First look: Eating Las Vegas’ 50 Essential Restaurants
Chefs and restaurateurs are shaken up over the new book Eating Las Vegas: 50 Essential Restaurants written and critiqued by three respected and feared Las Vegas food writers. The names of the Top 10 and other culinary royalty who are in are being revealed at today’s book launch party at Joel Robuchon’s L’Atelier in MGM Grand. Chef of the Decade Joel flew in from his Paris headquarters to host the reception for authors John Curtas (who writes for our Las ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 4:32 PM
Strip Scribbles: Criss Angel launches Make-A-Wish holiday toy drive
Mindfreak magician Criss Angel is heading up the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s 2010 holiday toy drive. The star of Believe at the Luxor kicked it off this morning at Bank of America, which is the main sponsor. Criss wants fans and the public to drop off new unwrapped toys at any of the 54 Bank of America centers in Southern Nevada from today until Dec. 3. Then he’ll host the annual party for the Make-A-Wish kids at The Rio on Dec. 9. ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 2:01 PM
TV special with Kim Kardashian names People’s sexiest male
The annual Sexiest Man Alive edition of People magazine attracts nearly the same level of excitement as its sister publication Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit edition, and in just a few hours, even before the issue goes on sale Friday, we’re about to discover this year’s winner. Insiders are predicting that the award will go to actor Ryan Reynolds, a 34-year-old Canadian who is married to sexy actress Scarlett Johansson. Ryan stars as the title superhero in Green Lantern scheduled for ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 12:03 PM
Photos: Behind the scenes of Triumph at Las Vegas Hilton
Rehearsals are in full swing at the Las Vegas Hilton ahead of Monday’s opening of the new time-travel magic spectacular Triumph. Contributing photographer Tom Donoghue was invited yesterday to the former Elvis Presley showroom where magicians Larry Fischer and Rafael Palacios will perform. This is the first photo coverage of Triumph, which will feature 21 extraordinary illusions, plus levitations and four multimedia flying effects over the audiences. We posted a story Nov. 9 about Triumph and its grand opening date. ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 8:58 AM
DWTS photos: Brandy exits, Bristol Palin makes finals in upset
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Season 11 of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars has been full of upsets, and last night’s semifinal results show was no different, with teen activist Bristol Palin and partner Mark Ballas making the final three for next Monday, and front-runner singer Brandy, who had been at the top of the leaderboard for the past four weeks, getting the boot with partner and Le Reve choreographer Maksim Chmerkovskiy. This, sadly, means Chmerkovskiy is once ... Read more...
11.17.10 · 7 AM
Exclusive: Miss America shoe parade returns after five-year hiatus
For the first time since 2005, the Miss America Organization is bringing back a beloved tradition: the Miss America “Show Us Your Shoes” parade. The Miss America tradition continued up until 2005, when the pageant moved from Atlantic City to its new home in Las Vegas and the parade was dropped. It all began in the early 1970s, when parade viewers overlooking the Atlantic City boardwalk wanted a better look at the beautiful shoes the contestants wore while traveling the ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 5:32 PM
Diana Ross epitomizes what true Las Vegas entertainment is meant to be
For the second consecutive week, I reveled in old time Las Vegas with a simplistic, straightforward concert presentation of magnificent music and sensational songs. Last weekend, it was Rod Stewart in top form. This past weekend, it was the queen, the diva, the superstar Diana Ross that sent the crowds wild. They danced in their seats. They danced in the aisles. They mobbed her at the front of the stage as she sang while posing for fans’ cameras. Each song ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 3:55 PM
Strip Scribbles: Primm race canceled due to concern for desert tortoises
Officials at the U.S. Department of Fish & Wildlife have ordered the SCORE International race for September to be relocated from Primm out of concern for the desert tortoises living there. Now SCORE officials are looking for alternative sites and dates for their 38th annual year of five races. Las Vegas Events had signed on for the first time to sponsor all five races from the start, Jan. 14 in Laughlin, to the last race of the year, the 1,000 ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 2:26 PM
Photos: Howie Mandel, Playboy Playmates, Hangover slot at G2E
Celebrities attending today’s first session of the 10th anniversary G2E Global Gaming Expo include Howie Mandel, Playboy Playmates and Ken Jeong from the smash hit comedy The Hangover. Ken will be part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony and then visit IGT’s booth to first-pull the handle on the manufacturer’s new slot machine bearing the box office blockbuster’s name. Playboy Playmates Juliette Frette and Tyran Richard will be signing autographs at Bally Technologies’ booth, where gorgeous Miss USA beauty queen Dani Reeves ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 1:31 PM
Photos: Holly’s World starlet Laura Croft sizzles with 2011 calendar
Playboy’s Miss July 2009 Laura Croft, who resides in Las Vegas, has launched her first calendar, and not only are the 13 provocative pinup portraits scorching hot, but so are the sizzling sales. Laura, who stars with Peepshow beauty Holly Madison in the E! Entertainment series, had a 2-hour, nonstop signing for fans at Aurora Lounge in the Luxor, and she has three additional meet-and-greet signings. Laura will appear Friday at MGM Grand and then Saturday at Mandalay Bay. She’s ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 12:33 PM
Debut of American Country Awards in Las Vegas features all-star lineup
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Country superstars Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton and Josh Turner are scheduled to perform at the debut American Country Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on Dec. 6 and airing on Fox. The inaugural 2-hour event also feature appearances by Lady Antebellum, Laura Bell Bundy, Rodney Carrington, Jewel, Bret Michaels, Ty Murray, Jeff Dunham, Clint Bowyer, Michael Waltrip and Elliott Sadler. The ACAs is the only country music awards show that ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 10:45 AM
Vince Neil declares victory in fight for Feelgood’s name
Rock icon Vince Neil has been told by his lawyers that he has won his “Dr. Feelgood” name back from the new owner and operators of the club and bar he built here on Sahara Avenue. (We posted a story Nov. 1 about the feud with his former partner.) “Victory!” exclaimed an ecstatic Vince this morning. “The new owners sent my attorneys a letter saying they will stop using the Feelgood’s logo and also remove all likenesses of me from ... Read more...
11.16.10 · 8:40 AM
DWTS photos: It’s a perfect night for Jennifer Grey
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It’s down to four couples in the semifinals, or Week 9, of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars, and each couple performed two routines last night. Many pundits believe it’s a fight between Disney Channel star Kyle Massey and teen activist Bristol Palin for the third spot in the finals with front-runners actress Jennifer Grey and singer Brandy. The first round is Latin, in which the celebrity must perform a solo, and the second ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 5:36 PM
Strip Scribbles: Jessica Lowndes celebrates her 22nd birthday in Las Vegas
It was a weekend-long birthday celebration for 90210 star Jessica Lowndes. Her 22nd celebration festivities began with dinner at Social House in MGM CityCenter’s Crystals with a group of 12 friends at Executive Chef Joe Elevado’s restaurant. Jessica finished dinner with a tower of chocolate chip cupcakes. Wearing a sexy blue dress by Catherine Malandrino and red strappy heels by Brian Atwood, she arrived at Pure in Caesars Palace at midnight and posed for red carpet photos. Once at her ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 3:56 PM
George Maloof, Zoe Thrall confirm Michael Jackson song is authentic
Several family members of the late Michael Jackson have complained bitterly in the past few weeks about his new album scheduled for release Dec. 14. In fact, they’ve gone so far as to protest today’s release of its first single “Hold My Hand.” Some even say it and the leaked “Breaking News” track aren’t even the King of Pop’s real voice! The Black Eyed Peas star Will.I.Am has blasted the album for being “disrespectful” to Michael’s memory. But Palms President ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 1:44 PM
Photos: Terry Fator’s Tribute to the Troops — and new wedding rings
Million-dollar man Terry Fator battled laryngitis and the flu to entertain the Wounded Warriors on their last day of the four-day Tribute to the Troops salute here in Las Vegas. “I totally lost my voice on Wednesday. I was unable to speak, and for a ventriloquist and impersonator, that’s the worst disaster possible” The Mirage headliner told me. But thanks to his vocal medical specialist in Dallas and following strict instructions not to talk, Terry got his voice back and ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 12:45 PM
Celebrity recap: Whoopi Goldberg, granddaughter enjoy birthdays at Tao
Comedienne and The View co-host Whoopi Goldberg was a whirl of nonstop, late-night energetic partying as she celebrated her 55th birthday at Tao in The Venetian along with her granddaughter Amarah, who was celebrating her 21st birthday. Whoopi, who had performed at Treasure Island, held court in a private dining room surrounded by family, including daughter Alexandrea (Amarah’s mother) and Whoopi’s brother Clyde. The party moved to the nightclub and a skybox to enjoy the sounds of DJ Sander Van ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 9:10 AM
DWTS preview: Is it Kyle Massey vs. Bristol Palin for third spot?
Unless there’s a last-minute surprise upset and a TV viewer voting revolt, it looks certain that next Monday’s Dancing With the Stars finals will be a showdown between two Las Vegas dance professionals. That then leaves only one question for tonight’s Week 9 semifinals. Will long-shot teen activist Bristol Palin and her partner Mark Ballas, who dance an Argentine Tango and the samba, finally be booted? Or will Disney star Kyle Massey and his partner Lacey Schwimmer, who dance the ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 7:45 AM
2010 Latin Grammys photos: The show, fashions and Placido Domingo
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Vegas DeLuxe’s hard-working team of contributing photographers had the 2010 Latin Grammy Awards covered at Mandalay Bay Events Center last Thursday. Unfortunately, technology faltered, as our photo processor was in disrepair from Thursday to late Friday afternoon. It took the weekend to catch up, but photo galleries by Tom Donoghue and Erik Kabik of the dinner gala honoring Placido Domingo; the red carpet arrivals with, among others, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony; the big ... Read more...
11.15.10 · 12:01 AM
Exclusive: Sir Elton John to return to Caesars Palace next year
Twice last month when Sir Elton John performed here in Las Vegas for Andre Agassi and Justin Timberlake at separate charity events on The Strip, I reported rumors from highly reliable sources that talks were underway for the British superstar entertainer to return to Caesars Palace. Now I can confirm that he’ll be back at The Colosseum next year, two years after his residency ended there. Elton will resume his shows after Celine Dion’s initial run of 70 performances a ... Read more...
11.14.10 · 12:01 PM
Strip Scribbles: Barry Manilow hosts local school choirs onstage at the Paris
Wrapping up Las Vegas celebrity news from the past week: Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow gave Clark County School District high school and middle school choirs the chance of a lifetime by performing onstage with the icon at the Paris beginning Friday with Valley High School and continuing on subsequent weekends into December with Lawrence Middle School, West Middle School and Von Tobel Middle School. “The Las Vegas community has welcomed me like a native son, and the chance to share ... Read more...
11.14.10 · 7:29 AM
Photos: Venetian rolls out red carpet for veterans with Tribute to the Troops
In celebration of Veterans Day, The Venetian is honoring veterans with an over-the-top weekend of entertainment, world-class dining and relaxation. Nearly 75 Wounded Warriors and their families arrived to a heartwarming red carpet welcome Thursday in The Venetian’s Grand Colonnade, and more than 1,000 hotel guests and Venetian team members cheered on the veterans as they proceeded through the crowd to the welcoming ceremony. Internationally respected philanthropists Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson, chairman of the board and CEO of ... Read more...
11.13.10 · 11:09 AM
Photos: Vince Neil rehearses for ABC’s Skating With the Stars
ABC has just released the first official photos of rock icon Vince Neil rehearsing on ice here in Las Vegas for the Nov. 22 premiere of Skating With the Stars. The series debuts as a 2-hour special after the winner of Season 11’s Dancing With the Stars takes home the prized and coveted disco trophy ball. Las Vegas resident and Motley Crue frontman Vince has been putting in 5 to 6 hours of daily rehearsals here. I was at Las ... Read more...
11.13.10 · 9:02 AM
The supreme diva Diana Ross dazzles at Caesars Palace
It was a triumphant return for the supreme Diana Ross at the first of her two weekend shows at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace last night. The world-acclaimed superstar singer owned the stage from the moment she walked on it dazzling her enthusiastic fans in a shimmering Bob Mackie gown topped with a massive yellow boa throw. Even if it did look as if she’d borrowed it from fellow Colosseum headliner Cher’s closet, the fabulous Miss Ross was the total ... Read more...
11.12.10 · 7:06 PM
Breaking news: Donny and Marie Osmond settle dispute with ex-manager
Attorneys for Donny and Marie Osmond and Chip Lightman announced tonight that pending litigation between the parties over Chip’s production services has been resolved in a confidential and mutually satisfactory manner, and the lawsuit, Chip Lightman Entertainment et al v. Donald C. Osmond et al, has been dismissed. Chip, former producer of The Donny & Marie Show at the Flamingo, said, “I am pleased we were able to resolve this matter and am sorry that, in the heat of battle, ... Read more...
11.12.10 · 1:03 PM
At Nevada Cancer gala: ELP’s $50,000 kiss, Larry King’s final CNN shows
It was a glittering, fun and fundraising night filled with surprises! Eva Longoria Parker proved to be a skilled desperate housewife auctioneer offering a birthday kiss for $50,000 at the Nevada Cancer Institute annual dinner in MGM CityCenter’s Aria — and she got it! Host Larry King promptly joked, “What would $1 million get us?” Eva responded that her dress was already backless and nearly nonexistent! The generosity continued with Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte donating $1 million to ... Read more...
11.12.10 · 11:02 AM
Photos: J.Lo shines at Latin Grammys; Camila wins 3 top awards
Editor’s note: The photo gallery processor is down, so we’re delayed in posting galleries. We’ll have them posted as soon as possible. Thanks for your patience. It was a total triumph for Mexico’s soft rock group Camila when they scooped up three top awards at the 11th Annual Latin Grammy Awards at Mandalay Bay Events Center last night. They won Song of the Year and Record of the Year for “Mientes” (You Lie), which came from their album Dejarte de ... Read more...
11.12.10 · 2:12 AM
Celebrity forecast: Usher, Diana Ross, Whoopi Goldberg, SYTYCD
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor The weekend celebrity forecast for The Entertainment Capital of the World is jam-packed, even though the Las Vegas Sun’s Guest Gauge says traffic will be very slow. From superstar singers from the past to the present to young and talented dancers to Project Dinner Table’s final event of its inaugural season, there are myriad options for weekend fun. Friday, Nov. 12 So You Think You Can Dance winner Lauren Froderman, runner-up Kent Boyd and ... Read more...
11.11.10 · 4:27 PM
Terry Fator battles flu to keep his promise to Wounded Warriors benefit
The Mirage headliner impressionist Terry Fator isn’t letting a bout with the flu interrupt his plans for this weekend’s Wounded Warriors visit to Las Vegas and his own Tribute to the Troops. He said his doctor has ordered him to conserve energy so that he’ll be fine for Sunday’s concert for military families and their meet-and-greet at The Mirage. However, he had to cancel his appearance at McCarran Airport today for Wayne Newton’s opening of the USO lounge as part ... Read more...
11.11.10 · 2:22 PM
Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa to film in Las Vegas the week of Nov. 29
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Talk show hosts Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa are bringing Live With Regis and Kelly to Encore Theater in the Wynn the week of Nov. 29, and guests include Las Vegas native Jimmy Kimmel; Selena Gomez, who was recently in town for Justin Timberlake and Friends at Planet Hollywood; Howie Mandel; Nicki Minaj; Joel McHale; and Rod Stewart, who is currently performing a test residency at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace. Also during the ... Read more...
11.11.10 · 11:29 AM
Photos: Placido Domingo is Latin Grammys’ Person of the Year
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor The 11th Annual Latin Grammy Awards will be broadcast live today on Univision (Channel 15) at 5 p.m. PT from Mandalay Bay Events Center, and MGM Grand headliners Recycled Percussion (who are moving to the Tropicana soon so that their show can become all ages) and the cast of Le Reve at the Wynn are among the scheduled performers, with the New Hampshire quartet and America’s Got Talent favorites opening the show. Music legend ... Read more...
11.11.10 · 8:09 AM
Steve Wynn’s Lichtenstein redhead fetches $43 million at auction
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Roy Lichtenstein’s 1964 painting of a pouting redhead owned by billionaire Steve Wynn sold for an artist record $42.6 million last night at Christie’s International auction in New York. Bloomberg reported that Lichtenstein’s “Ohhh … Alright …” squashed the artist’s record of $16.3 million, and total sales for the evening were $272.9 million, four times the amount last year and the largest total since May 2008. “The patient has made a full recovery,” New ... Read more...
11.10.10 · 5:28 PM
New Viva Elvis album has local tie with Erich Van Tourneau
Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis at MGM CityCenter’s Aria, Elvis Presley Enterprises and Legacy Recordings released Viva Elvis: the Album yesterday to commemorate the 75th birthday year of Elvis Presley. The album, a celebration of Elvis and his music featuring his voice in a new context, was produced and arranged by Erich van Tourneau, Viva Elvis’ music director and arranger at Aria. The album includes reimagined versions of “Blue Suede Shoes,” “That’s Alright,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Love Me Tender,” “King Creole,” ... Read more...
11.10.10 · 2:41 PM
Carey Hart and Pink are expecting their first child
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Motocross star Carey Hart, who owns the tattoo shop Hart & Huntington in the Hard Rock Hotel and owned the recently closed Wasted Space up the way at HRH, and his rock star wife Pink are expecting their first child. “She’s 12 weeks along,” an insider told US Weekly. “She wanted to do it between tours, when she has some time off.” The source added that after the couple’s separation in 2008, which led ... Read more...
11.10.10 · 11:49 AM
SYTYCD winner Lauren Froderman feels blessed to meet fans, dance
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Phoenix teenager Lauren Froderman was crowned America’s favorite dancer Aug. 12 on Season 7 of Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance, despite being the last female standing in the top six and facing Robert Roldan and Kent Boyd, who had never been in the bottom three, in the finals. (Vegas DeLuxe posted an interview with Boyd yesterday). The top-performing contestants from Season 7 of SYTYCD and competitors from past seasons, aka the all-stars, ... Read more...
11.10.10 · 10:36 AM
Jamie King chats about Cirque’s Michael Jackson arena show Immortal
Two of the pop world’s most creative minds are already at work on the Michael Jackson touring arena musical production Immortal that launches next year and will play at Mandalay Bay Events Center in a limited run before its worldwide dates. For 12 years, Jamie King was Madonna’s creative director. He also directed Rihanna’s Last Girl on Earth world tour, Celine Dion’s Taking Chances world tour, Britney Spears’ Circus tour and Avril Lavigne’s Best Damn tour. His set designer Mark ... Read more...
11.10.10 · 9:09 AM
DWTS photos: Game over for Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It’s down to the final five on ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars, and after Monday night’s performance show, teen activist Bristol Palin, with Mark Ballas, and Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner, with Anna Trebunskaya, were at the bottom of the pack. Despite two weeks of top performers going home — actress Audrina Patridge and NBA champion Rick Fox — it looks certain that either Palin or Warner will go home. The results show ... Read more...
11.9.10 · 3:03 PM
From Wapakoneta to L.A.: SYTYCD favorite Kent Boyd
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Kent Boyd put Wapakoneta, Ohio, pop. 10,000, on the map. Week after week, screaming females and likely a few males cheered on Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance Season 7 contestant, whose mad dance skills were coupled with an endearingly sweet childlike outlook and look. Boyd, who also is listed as being from Botkins, just missed out on winning, placing second to fellow teen Lauren Froderman despite never having been in the bottom ... Read more...
11.9.10 · 1:26 PM
Strip Scribbles: Terry Fator and Taylor Makakoa’s Hawaiian ceremony
Updated @10:10 p.m. The Mirage headliner Terry Fator’s divorce became final Nov. 2, and less than 24 hours later, his girlfriend of 18 months, Taylor Makakoa, and he tied the knot with their mothers present and giving their blessings. This past Sunday, again with their mothers in attendance, Terry and Taylor made it official with a Hawaiian ceremony, and Vegas DeLuxe just received a photograph from the special day. Terry and Taylor wed at the Ko Olina Marriott in Ko ... Read more...
11.9.10 · 12:02 PM
Triumph is ready to debut at the Las Vegas Hilton on Nov. 22
Vegas DeLuxe has received advance word that the new spectacular Triumph at the Las Vegas Hilton is set to test time by giving its audience a ride through an interactive Steampunk world set in a Victorian fantasy. Steeped with influences from H.G. Wells, Jules Vern and Nikola Tesla, Triumph begins its journey through an alternative history at the Las Vegas Hilton on Nov. 22. “We are ready to wow Las Vegas with this innovative and original show that will introduce ... Read more...
11.9.10 · 11:06 AM
Photos: Outdoor food fair, lively Q&A at Vegas Valley Book Festival
Food fans jammed in by the hundreds at Sunday’s “community demonstration” by nine Las Vegas chefs working side-by-side on wood-fired grills at the downtown Historic Fifth Street School as part of the Vegas Valley Book Festival’s Literature & Food Fair. To kick off the day, I moderated a lively and heated panel discussion with food critics John Curtas, Max Jacobson and Al Mancini about the Las Vegas dining scene. The audience also received a few hints about their Nov. 17 ... Read more...
11.9.10 · 9:04 AM
DWTS photos: Front-runners retain lead; Kyle Massey a strong third
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It’s down to the Final Five on Season 11, Week 8, of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars, and of note this week is the new challenge of Instant Dance, in which the couples will perform a Latin or jive routine minutes after receiving their song during the telecast. Each couple also will perform a ballroom number. Disney star Kyle Massey and Lacey Schwimmer start the night with a Viennese waltz to Anna Nalick’s ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 4:02 PM
Strip Scribbles: Global Ducati rider arrives in Las Vegas today
As part of a 90,000-kilometer ride around the world on his prized Ducati Multistrada 1200 motorbike, Paolo Pirozzi of Naples, Italy, roars into Las Vegas today. His Nevada pit stop is just 24 hours, and he is scheduled to arrive in Primm at noon after a 4-hour journey across the desert from San Diego. A merry mob of Ducati club members will then escort him to the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign for photos, followed by a lap around ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 2:31 PM
Steve Wynn admits that he’s changed his will — but why?
“I’m not about to croak,” hotel mogul Steve Wynn told me, “but I have changed my will.” My mind immediately raced as to whether things were really heating up with beautiful Andrea Hissom, who was on his arm at Tony Hawk’s Stand Up for Skateparks at the Wynn on Saturday. Steve’s will must fascinate every inquisitive journalist worth his salt and had my eyes a-popping and my ears open larger than normal. A world scoop was the immediate thought! I ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 1:01 PM
Photos: Joey Chestnut repeats as meatball champion, falls short of record
Major League Eating champion Joey Chestnut failed in his bid to shatter last year’s record 50 meatballs in 10 minutes at yesterday’s Second Annual Martorano’s Masters Meatball Eating Contest at The Rio, and he blamed it on being distracted by Holly Madison and his own failure in disregarding his disciplines the night before. Peepshow’s platinum blond bombshell attended the eating challenge, which featured Joey and 14 other contestants, including Henderson resident Rich “The Locust” LeFevre, who came out of retirement ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 11:26 AM
Holly Madison chats about Peepshow renewal, Angel Porrino
Blond bombshell Holly Madison had a secret ploy in mind as she renegotiated her new Peepshow contract. “I love my job, and I’m really thrilled we got it renewed for all of next year right through to New Year’s Eve 2011,” a delighted Holly told me over the weekend. But the platinum Peepshow star at Planet Hollywood added: “I also wanted vacation time this New Year, which I didn’t really have in the first contract – and I got nine ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 10:32 AM
Photos: Vince Neil admits to chills, spills on Skating With the Stars
Rock icon Vince Neil said he’s got bumps and bruises all over his body from falling on the ice during his daily 5-plus hours of rehearsals for ABC’s upcoming Skating With the Stars premiering Nov. 22. “My right knee has taken some punishment,” he told me last night at The Rio, where he hosted his 6th Annual Skylar Neil Charity Poker Tournament. His 25-year-old dance partner, international gold medalist Jennifer Wester, said, “You have to fall to learn ice skating, ... Read more...
11.8.10 · 9:10 AM
Celebrity recap: Tony Hawk, Rod Stewart, Top Chef stars, Drake
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor The Las Vegas Sun’s Guest Gauge said it would be a busy weekend, and, as usual, it was right on the money, with The Entertainment Capital of the World jam-packed all weekend long with a rock legend, a skateboarding icon, two of the rap world’s biggest stars and culinary kings and queens. The weekend kicked off with Food & Wine’s inaugural All-Stars Weekend hosted by Top Chef judge and Top Chef: Just Desserts hostess ... Read more...
11.7.10 · 5:02 PM
Photos: Drake, at The Joint and Tryst, is joined by Lil Wayne
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It was a busy work and party weekend for Grammy-nominated hip hop artist Drake, who kicked it off with a sold-out performance at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel last night. Surprise guest Lil Wayne, who was just released from prison after serving 8 months of a one-year sentence on a weapons charge, performed with Drake during the finale of the Light Dreams and Nightmares Tour, and contributing photographer Erik Kabik was on ... Read more...
11.7.10 · 4:29 PM
Photos: Tao celebrates star-studded fifth anniversary at The Venetian
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It was a fifth anniversary weekend celebration for Tao in The Venetian that started at sister property Lavo in the Palazzo on Friday night. Sarah Jane Morris of Brothers and Sisters and her husband Ned Bower of Rooney dined at Lavo in their first vacation since the birthday of their baby boy. Also at Lavo: Kelly Bensimon of The Real Housewives of New York; David Spade, who dined at Tao before his show at ... Read more...
11.7.10 · 12 PM
Photos: Tony Hawk’s Stand Up for Skateparks fun for everyone at Wynn
“How much fun is this?!” That was the question celebrities and their kids, along with VIPs and their grandkids, kept asking at Tony Hawk’s star-studded skateboard carnival Stand Up for Skateparks yesterday at the Wynn. The Sunset Terrace and pool were turned into a family-centric, action-packed playground complete with Tony’s personal ramp for jaw-dropping live Vert Demos by skateboarding’s icons. Contributing photographer Tom Donoghue was on duty for red carpet arrivals and inside the carnival, while Anthony Acosta shot breathtaking ... Read more...
11.7.10 · 10:04 AM
Photos: Rod Stewart’s knockout song and soccer show at The Colosseum
Even after more than five decades of some 60 hit singles, superstar rock icon Rod Stewart can still knock the ball out of the stadium. Last night, it was soccer balls by the dozen that he kicked, dribbled and threw in The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, some going from the stage all the way to the first balcony level. Rod sang his soul out. He spun, shimmied, shuffled and shook his sexy buns. He shined laughed and proved that he ... Read more...
11.6.10 · 11:34 AM
Photos: Joey Chestnut preps for Martorano’s meatball-eating contest
It will take five of Steve Martorano’s chefs 13 hours to cook the 700 meatballs and sauce required for tomorrow’s Major League Eating Event at The Rio, and it will take defending champion Joey Chestnut all day and night to prepare for the challenge by drinking a staggering 26 pounds of water! For America’s top-rated professional speed eater nicknamed “Jaws,” it is a day of strict discipline preparing for tomorrow’s task at hand — and mouth. The chefs will start ... Read more...
11.6.10 · 10:37 AM
Photos: Food & Wine’s debut All-Stars kicks off at Bar Vdara
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Food & Wine’s inaugural All-Star Weekend kicked off last night at Vdara in MGM CityCenter with Top Chef judge and Top Chef: Just Desserts host Gail Simmons hosting some of the world’s most-renowned chefs and culinary kings and queens, and contributing photographer Denise Truscello was on duty for the evening’s events. The night began with a red carpet featuring Simmons; Food & Wine writer Anthony Giglio; Vinny Dotolo, Food & Wine Best New Chef ... Read more...
11.6.10 · 9:29 AM
Tao celebrates five years, continued growth and soon-to-open Marquee
For five years, it’s been the hot bed of superstar celebrities at play, the biggest deejay names in the business behind the wheels of steel and party revelers who never want to quit. In a business that’s notoriously fickle and where entrepreneurs can go out of business after a first-night failure, Tao at The Venetian continues to grow as it celebrates its phenomenal fifth anniversary today. Stars from Hollywood and New York are jetting in for the festivities, and I’m ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 4:47 PM
Strip Scribbles: Holly Madison’s Peepshow renewal is official
Platinum blond bombshell Holly Madison has renewed her contract for the hot striptease spectacular Peepshow at Planet Hollywood through to the end of next year, and she’s negotiated extra vacation time so that her friend and Holly’s World cast mate Angel Porrino can step into her high-heeled shoes when she’s away. The new deal was made official yesterday by Planet Hollywood executives, although Vegas DeLuxe reported it nearly four weeks ago. Since arriving in Las Vegas, Holly has become The ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 3:58 PM
Exclusive: Terry Fator remarries and is already talking babies
Just 24 hours after The Mirage headliner Terry Fator signed off on divorce papers with his wife Melinda on Tuesday afternoon, he married Taylor Makakoa, his girlfriend of 18 months. The ceremony attended by the mothers of the bride and the groom took place downtown at the Lily of the Valley wedding chapel. This weekend, they will make it completely official with a Hawaiian minister performing a traditional Hawaiian wedding ceremony here, again with Taylor’s mom Nani Dew and Terry’s ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 2:33 PM
Counter Intelligence: Martorano’s Meatballs, Food & Wine, Valentino
Champion Joey Chestnut will defend his title at the Second Annual Martorano’s Masters Meatball Championship on Sunday at the Masquerade Village Stage in The Rio. Last year, Joey managed — with knife and fork, no less — to finish 50 of the 2-ounce meatballs in 10 minutes. Ranked No. 1 world eater, Joey, aka Jaws, holds numerous eating championship records for everything from hot dogs to burritos to pizzas. Competitors are flying in from across the U.S. to upset Joey. ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 1:06 PM
At The Rio: 40th Annual $21 million WSOP; Vince Neil’s poker benefit
For a poker player, it’s the ultimate dream: to defeat more than 70,000 hopefuls from 117 countries and win the gold bracelet at the World Series of Poker Main Event. Plus, pick up a nearly $9 million payday, as there can be only one champion. That’s the scenario at The Rio this weekend, and this year more than at any other time in its 40-year history, it’s all unknowns — no big-name former champions or star-crossed poker princes. Eighteen former ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 11:44 AM
Tony Hawk throws an all-star, skate park, action sports carnival at Wynn
An all-star turnout is expected for skateboard champion Tony Hawk’s carnival at the Wynn tomorrow. Expect to see tennis ace and hometown hero Andre Agassi there with Miley Cyrus, Jamie Lee Curtis, Leeza Gibbons, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Lance Armstrong, Perry Ferrell, Hollywood mogul Michael Eisner, billionaire supermarket magnate Ron Burkle and the always gracious Elaine Wynn, plus their children and grandkids. Las Vegas VIPs and other headline names also are expected to attend. The exclusive family-centric action-sports fest raises ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 11:23 AM
Alexander is forever Costanza, and he’s OK with that — really
By John Katsilometes, The Kats Report Jason Alexander will say this about his experience on Seinfeld: He doesn’t know what else to say. “There’s not much more ground to cover, honestly,” says the onetime and forever George Costanza during a phone interview last week, the purpose of which is to promote The Donny Clay Experience, his one-man comedy/inspirational speaking performance, this one at MGM Grand’s Hollywood Theater. Alexander assumes the alter ego of Clay tonight through Nov. 10, in the ... Read more...
11.5.10 · 10:36 AM
Celebrity forecast: WSOP Final Nine at The Rio, Rod Stewart, and Tao turns 5
The big weekend story is the Final Nine of the World Series of Poker at The Rio, although Las Vegas has no stars or resident poker princes and princesses at the table this year as the battle rages for the first-place $9 million win — $8,944,138 to be precise. Each one of the remaining eight still divvy up $20 million in consolation payouts. The Rio headliner Penn Jillette’s wife Emily Jillette, a poker ace in her own right, will be ... Read more...
11.4.10 · 3:38 PM
Strip Scribbles: Fantasy extends its contract at Luxor through next year
Fantasy at the Luxor has extended its contract through 2011. The adult burlesque created and produced by Anita Mann is celebrating 11 years on The Strip, and the show recently added Lorena Peril as its lead star, following in the footsteps of Strawberry Blonde singer and Baywatch icon Angelica Bridges. “We are thrilled to be extending our contract at Luxor and confident audiences will absolutely love the new show,” Anita said in a statement. “Our partnership with Luxor has proven ... Read more...
11.4.10 · 1:52 PM
Rod Stewart begins eight-show run at The Colosseum on Saturday
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor As Vegas DeLuxe reported on Sept. 28, entertainment legend Rod Stewart is performing eight shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning Saturday and ending Nov. 21. The performances come on the heels of a record-breaking summer tour with 33 stops, including concerts in Ireland, United Kingdom, Israel, Russia and United Arab Emirates. It will be especially interesting to see how the eight-show run goes, as it is widely considered a residency tryout for ... Read more...
11.4.10 · 11:33 AM
Photos: SEMA attendees include Snoop Dogg and Funkmaster Flex
Contributing photographer Tom Donoghue turns his camera lens for everything from glittering galas, platinum parties and sexy celebrities. But with the 100,000-plus-strong SEMA convention in town filling our restaurants, theaters, nightclubs and hotels, Tom put cars and their accessories into fine focus. Here’s a photo gallery by Tom from Tuesday of all the behind-the-scenes action from this year’s SEMA convention at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The new Ford Police Interceptor Stealth is going to catch many a speeding motorist ... Read more...
11.4.10 · 8:33 AM
The Mirage headliner Terry Fator officially ends 18-year marriage
After nearly two decades of marriage, The Mirage headliner Terry Fator and his wife Melinda have officially called it quits, and they signed the divorce papers Tuesday afternoon. “We have made an amicable settlement. I’m very happy, and I am in a good place,” Melinda told me last night. “I don’t wish to add anything beyond that.” The couple had been married for 18 years when they moved to Las Vegas for the start of Terry’s 10-year, $100 million contract ... Read more...
11.3.10 · 6:59 PM
Millicent Siegel talks about her father Bugsy’s name, reputation and legacy
When The Mob Experience opens next month at the Tropicana, Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel will be credited as the visionary behind the creation of Las Vegas. His daughter Millicent was just 15 years old when he was slain, and ever since that still-unsolved death, she’s had to live with his name, his reputation and his legacy. “I usually just say, ‘Yes, he is my father, and that’s it.’ I don’t discuss anything,” she told me in a rare one-on-one interview. “I ... Read more...
11.3.10 · 11:29 AM
Strip Scribbles: The Amazing Kreskin begins run at Riviera tonight
For more than six decades, world-renowned mentalist The Amazing Kreskin has stunned audiences with his mind-boggling predictions and mental tests. Tonight, he returns to town for an extended run taking over the former Comedy Club at the Riviera after a sold-out headline appearance at the Sahara. “Even I couldn’t have predicted this,” The Amazing Kreskin said. “We had such an incredible visit here two months ago that I just had to shuffle dates around to make this extended run work ... Read more...
11.3.10 · 8:59 AM
Photos: Cirque du Soleil announces Michael Jackson’s Immortal
One of the world’s most ambitious arena music concerts ever staged — Michael Jackson’s Immortal by Cirque du Soleil — hits Mandalay Bay Events Center with 60 stage performers Dec. 3-11, 2011. Cirque officials and executives with The Estate of Michael Jackson make the official announcement today with the first details of the international launch of the Immortal World Tour — exactly as Vegas DeLuxe first revealed on Oct. 20. Immortal is written and directed by Jamie King, one of ... Read more...
11.3.10 · 7:48 AM
DWTS photos: Rick Fox trots off show; the ‘baddest guy on ice’
The shocks and surprises on Election Night with the Tea Party tidal wave also spilled over to Dancing With the Stars. Teen mom and activist Bristol Palin had the lowest score Monday night but made the Mamma Grizzlies proud, holding on to her continuing battle on the dance floor. In yet another surprise upset — and it’s been a season filled with them — NBA champion Rick Fox and Cheryl Burke were benched and out of the running for the ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 5:13 PM
Free show with 30 Seconds to Mars and Diplo at The Joint
Hooray freebies! The Las Vegas Weekly just received word that everyone 21 and over is welcome to attend the Gran Turismo Awards tomorrow night at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel for zero dollars and zero cents! PlayStation partnered up with SEMA for the event, and reps say 30 Seconds to Mars and DJ/producer Diplo will each perform at least an hourlong set after the awards presentation. Get there early: Doors open at 9 p.m., and space is limited. ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 4:02 PM
Strip Scribbles: MGM Resorts spas tops in 3 SpaFinder categories
Spas at Bellagio, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay have been named among the Top 10 Best in SpaFinder’s 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards. SpaFinder.com visitors and readers of SpaFinder publications voted on spas in 35 countries/regions on six continents, and the honorees included Best Spa at a Casino Hotel: Spa Bellagio, MGM Grand Spa and Spa Mandalay; Best Spa for Interior Design: Spa Bellagio; and Best Spa for Luxury: Spa Bellagio. To identify the best spas, SpaFinder asked participants to name ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 2:29 PM
SEMA attracts over 100,000 to Las Vegas Convention Center
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor It’s one of the top three conventions that convene in Las Vegas each year, and many of the more than 100,000 delegates started arriving yesterday for today’s kickoff of the 30th show of the Specialty Equipment Market Association, or SEMA. SEMA is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world, drawing the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to the Las Vegas Convention Center. SEMA attracts more than 100,000 industry leaders from ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 1:01 PM
Photos: Taste of the NFL at Super Bowl XLV Sunday in Dallas
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Taste of the NFL, the annual food fundraiser the night before Super Bowl Sunday, will once again feature Las Vegas flavors and stars, with star chef Bobby Flay and Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach among the VIPs traveling to Dallas for the benefit. Chef Josh Thomsen, who opened Tao at The Venetian, also plans to attend the “party with a purpose.” Taste of the NFL, at the Fort Worth Convention Center on Feb. 5, ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 11:29 AM
Photos: Swedish House Mafia’s Masquerade Motel at The Joint
By Anisa Buttar, contributor Swedish House Mafia’s Masquerade Motel has revolutionized live music. The European trio is a super group consisting of Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso, all three of whom are ranked in the Top 20 of DJ Mag’s annual Top 100 list. Their debut album, Until One, was released Oct. 25, and since then the group has invaded America, bringing their Masquerade Motel production from its residency at the legendary Pacha nightclub in Ibiza, Spain, to America ... Read more...
11.2.10 · 6:23 AM
DWTS photos: Brandy, Jennifer Grey at top of leaderboard
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor In five years of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars, there have been 11 seasons, 121 stars, 200 shows (the reason for last night’s celebration) and more than 1,000 dances, so to commemorate the milestone, more than 50 stars returned for the special night of performances. Pro dancers kicked off the show dancing to Beyonce’s “Dangerously in Love,” the first song and dance in the series. There is a roll call in the audience ... Read more...
11.1.10 · 5:04 PM
Strip Scribbles: Will Steve Wynn’s paintings fetch $50 million at auction?
If the New York auction houses are correct, the sale by casino mogul Steve Wynn of two prized Pop Art paintings for $50 million Nov. 10 might signal that the high-end art market has rebounded from the dismal economy. Steve has up for an auction a Roy Lichtenstein painting titled Ohhh-Alright and a portrait of himself with Andy Warhol painted in 1982 by artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Both paintings go under the hammer at Christie’s International. Lichtenstein’s painting of a comely ... Read more...
11.1.10 · 3:52 PM
Halloween photos: Parties end with inaugural parade, DJs spinning today
Halloween ended as the clock hit 8 this morning. That’s when DJ Erick Morillo spun his last record at Tao in The Venetian, and costume-clad revelers who’d danced through the break of dawn also called it quits. Festivities began last week and had roared into Thursday for what was more than 96 hours of nonstop partying. Here at Vegas DeLuxe, we did our best to keep pace with the insanity of it all, and you can check all the photo ... Read more...
11.1.10 · 2 PM
Exclusive: Vince Neil details fight over Feelgood’s, tattoo shop in The Rio
Motley Crue rocker Vince Neil hopes a federal court order today will end his association with Feelgood’s Rock Bar and Grill here so that the current operators can no longer use his trademark and then he can open his own Feelgood’s. Vince, who lives here in Las Vegas, said in an exclusive interview with me last night that he’s owed hundreds of thousands of dollars and that the financial problems have spread to his tattoo parlor in The Rio that ... Read more...
11.1.10 · 11:29 AM
DWTS celebrates 200th show; Vince Neil on Skating With the Stars
As Dancing With the Stars celebrates its 200th show tonight, Las Vegas personalities have played a major role in its extraordinary success and have been featured in every one of the 11 top-rated seasons. No less than four of the dance pros have Neon City connections, and our Peepshow at Planet Hollywood has produced the most celebrity participants, including Kelly Monaco, who kicked off the debut season and won the prized mirrored disco ball trophy. Six stars and their pro ... Read more...
11.1.10 · 9:41 AM
Celebrity recap: Stars’ spooktacular Halloween soirees in Las Vegas
It was celebrity-hosted Halloween parties ghoul-ore all weekend long in the Entertainment Capital of the World, and, in case you weren’t online and instead attended one or more of the celebrations, here’s a recap of what was posted on Vegas DeLuxe, Las Vegas Weekly and Las Vegas Sun on Saturday and yesterday. Friday, Oct. 29 Friday night was Friday night on The Strip. True Blood star Ryan Kwanten was the star attraction at Veuve Clicquot’s Yelloween at Tao in The ... Read more...
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Tuesday
2012-05-29
South Point
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Tuesday
2012-05-29
$3 drinks with a text at the door
The Strip
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Tuesday
2012-05-29
Activities-farmers market
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Wednesday
2012-05-30
The Strip
An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow
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Wednesday
2012-05-30
$150 bottle specials
Hot Spots
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Wednesday
2012-05-30
Drink Specials
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Thursday
2012-05-31
reduced price drinks on Thursday nights
Hot Spots
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Thursday
2012-05-31
The Orleans
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Thursday
2012-05-31
Green Valley
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Friday
2012-06-01
Concert
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Friday
2012-06-01
Henderson
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Friday
2012-06-01
The Strip
An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow
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Saturday
2012-06-02
Downtown
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Saturday
2012-06-02
Local Bands
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Saturday
2012-06-02
Red Rock Casino
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Sunday
2012-06-03
Concert
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Sunday
2012-06-03
The Strip
An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow
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Sunday
2012-06-03
$5 drinks with text
The Strip
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SMS Alerts
Featured Cocktail
May 23, 2012
by
Sabrina Chapman
Rhumbar’s Scorpion Bowl stings so good
Ready to celebrate the official start of summer? Prepare for takeoff. Memorial Day Weekend picks up speed with the addition of Rhumbar’s Scorpion Bowl ($49) to the weekend’s party lineup. ...
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