By Judy Thorburn This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock

Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
http://www.theflickchicks.com

“Raiding The Rock Vault” Rocks the House at LVH

Raiding the Rock Vault celebrated its opening at LVH (Las Vegas Hotel & Casino) on Monday, March 18.
 
The exciting concert takes guests on a nostalgic trip down memory lane from 1948 to 1989, traversing the history of rock music chronologically starting in the ‘40s and its African American musical influence, through the ‘50s, '60s, '70s and '80s.

Boasting "The Greatest Set List Ever” performed by an all star band, Raiding the Rock Vault, features classic anthems from The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Eagles, Queen, Van Halen, AC/DC, Journey, Free, Bryan Adams, Foreigner, Supertramp, Toto, Deep Purple, and more.  The show  was written by acclaimed Grammy Award-winning record producer David Kershenbaum (Joe Jackson, Tracy Chapman, Supertramp) and musician, producer and vocalist John Payne (Asia).

While the focus is definitely on the music, the show follows a theatrical narrative complete with compelling visuals including video narration, historical footage, photos and laser lights that enhance the experience along with live actors representing the political and social atmosphere of each timeline.

The lineup of legendary musicians and vocalists consist of Howard Leese [Guitar] (Heart, Bad Company), Tracii Guns [Guitar] (LA Guns, Guns n’ Roses), Robin McAuley [Lead Vocals] (MSG, Survivor), John Payne [Lead Vocals and Bass] (Asia), Paul Shortino [Lead Vocals] (Rough Cutt, Quite Riot), Jay Schellen [Drums] (Badfinger, Asia), Andrew Freeman [Lead Vocals and Guitars] (Lynch Mob, The Offspring), and Michael T. Ross [Keyboards] (Lita Ford, Hardline). Joining the show as one of the rotating special guests was Bobby Kimball [Lead Vocals] (Toto).  Each and every one of the musicians are true rock artists/masters of their genre.  It is obvious that they love what they do and have a blast playing the timeless gems.

I, like everyone else in the audience, had an awesome time listening to the amazing renditions of some of the greatest rock songs ever written. The time went by so quickly and I was having so much fun that I didn't realize the show ran approximately two hours.

I love this show and recommend it for avid fans of the genre.  Raiding the Rock Vault is a high powered rock-u-mentary you definitely should not miss.

Celebrities and rock stars who came out to welcome the show included Carrot Top, Recycled Percussion, Maren Wade (iCandy The Show), Daisy de la Hoya, Troy Burgess (Rock of Ages), Chippendales, Chris Phillips, Ricardo Laguna, Anthony Cools, rock-star artist Michael Godard, the ladies of FANTASY, Murray SawChuck, Tommy Wind, Danny Koker and the cast of Counting Cars, Jeff Civillico, Zito 77, Jasmine Trias (former American Idol finalist), singer-magician Ben Stone, master flamenco guitarist Esteban and his violinist daughter,Teresa Joy, Victor James and Alicia Perrone of Fans of Jimmy Century and others.

Red Carpet Arrivals

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Cast 21801
Cast of Musicians
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Cast Actors 21824
Cast of actors
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Paul Shortino 21621
Paul Shortino
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Andrew Freeman 21786
Andrew Freeman
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Howard Leese 21757
Howard Leese
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Jay Schellen 21796
Jay Shellen
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Robin McAuley 21759
Robin McAuley
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Tracii Guns 21775
Tracii Guns
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Michael T Ross 21789
Michael T. Ross
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Danny Count Koker John Payne 21750
Danny Count Koker and John Payne
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Bobby Kimball Toto 21782
Special guest performer Bobby Kimball of Toto
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Sir Harry Cowell 21640
Executive producer Sir Harry Cowell
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH David Kershenbaum 21634
David Kershenbaum
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Counting Cars 21713
Counting Cars
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Zito 77 21924
Zito 77
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Cast of iCandy Burlesque Maren Wade Daisy De La Hoya 21842
Cast of iCandy Burlesque
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding the Rock Vault Alicia Perrone Victor James Fans of Jimmy Century 21879edit2
Alicia Perrone and Victor James of the electro dance band Fans of Jimmy Century
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Paul Shortino Lorena Peril Fantasy Dancers 21692
Paul Shortino with Lorena Peril and cast members of Fantasy
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Carrot Top 21603
Carrot Top
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Anthony Cools 21644
Hypnotist Anthony Cools
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Chippendales 21595
Chippendales performers
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Recycled Percussion 21599
Cast members of Recycled Percussion (took his pants off because Chippendales took their shirts off)
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Daisy De La Hoya 21848
Daisy De La Hoya
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Doug Lefty Leferovich Murray Sawchuck Chloe Louise Crawford 21687
Doug "Lefty" Leferovich, Murray Sawchuck and Chloe Louise Crawford
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Esteban Teresa Joy 21932
Esteban and Teresa Joy
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

 Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Evil Dead The Musical 21665
Cast of Evil Dead the Musical
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Goretorium 21952
Cast member from Eli Roth's Goretorium
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Jasmine Trias Ben Stone 21857
Former American Idol finalist Jasmine Trias and Magician/singer Ben Stone
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Jeff Civilico Stacey Smithson 21949
Comedian/juggler Jeff Civilico and Fantasy dancer Stacey Smithson
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

 Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Loanne Parker 21724
Loanne Parker
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Lorena Peril 21697
Fantasy star Lorena Peril
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Lydia Ansel Chris Phillips 21898
Violinist Lydia Ansel and singer/entertainer Chris Phillips
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Maren Wade 21661
iCandy Burlesque star Maren Wade
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Maria Gara Steve August 21940
Performance artists Maria Gara (Snake Babe) and Steve August
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Michael Godard 21703
Artist Michael Godard
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Paul Shortino Robert Nash 21669
Paul Shortino and impressionist Robert Nash
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Peter Pavone 21945
Singer/impressionist Peter Pavone
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Ricardo Laguna 21893
Ricardo Laguna
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Tommy Wind 21903
Magician Tommy Wind
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Raiding The Rock Vault LVH Cast Curtain Call 22020
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

 

“RAIDING THE ROCK VAULT” performs nightly (dark on Fridays and schedule subject to change) at 9pm in the LVH Theater, the same stage where Elvis Presley performed 858 consecutive sold-out shows, breaking all Vegas attendance records. Ticket prices  range from $49 to a special Rock Star Package for $100 (which includes tickets in first five rows, t-shirt, signed concert program, signed album, meet and greet and VIP pass) plus fees.


Recycled Percussion Opens with a Bang at The Quad

The most interactive show in Las Vegas, Recycled Percussion production, kicked off its two-year residency at The Quad Resort & Casino, Thursday evening, March 14.

Celebrities that walked the opening night red carpet included: : Carrot Top, Claire Sinclair and cast members of Pin Up, Daisy de la Hoya, Tara Palsha and cast members of VEGAS The Show, comedy hypnotist Marc Savard, Chippendales, violinist Lydia Ansel and singer Chris Phillips (aka Zowie Bowie), MO5AIC, Maren Wade and cast members of iCandy The Show,  Mark Shunock (Rock of Ages), rock legends from Raiding the Rock Vault including John Payne and Paul Shortino, Victor James and Alicia Perrone of electro dance band Fans of Jimmy Century, the cast of Evil Dead: The Musical, Frank Marino and the cast of Divas, Ricardo Laguna, Jeff Civillico, Anthony Cools, performers from V - The Ultimate Variety Show, designer Griffin Hawks, actors from the Goretorium, and more!
 
Produced by one of Las Vegas’ most highly-regarded producers, David Saxe, the new Recycled Percussion show includes past junk rock favorites and surprising new additions, as well as a high-production set complete with light walls and lasers. To encourage guest to play along to the junk rock fun, upon entering the showroom everyone is offered a drumstick and instrument.

Recycled Percussion, comprised of Justin Spencer, who has been named the world’s “fastest extreme drummer,” along with fellow drummer Ryan Vezina, guitarist Matt Bowman and DJ Todd Griffin, have been rocking the Las Vegas Strip for over three years with an unprecedented combination of extreme percussion, engaging humor and extraordinary athleticism. Whether playing on buckets, ladders, grinders or sinks, the group’s boundless energy and creativity have continualy blow audiences away.

Recycled Percussion takes the stage at the Q Theater at The Quad Saturday through Thursday (dark Friday) at 7 p.m.

Read more about Recycled Percussion's new show at the Quad in Jacqueline Monahan's column, “About The Town”.

Red Carpet Arrivals

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Recycled Percussion with Models
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion 21562
Recycled Percussion with mokey masks on
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast of Divas Las Vegas 21421
Cast of Divas Las Vegas
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast of iCandy The Show 21455
Cast of iCandy Burlesque
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast Of Pinup 21503
Cast of Pinup
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast of Raiding The Rock Vault 21533
Cast of Raiding The Rock Vault
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast of Vegas The Show 21372
Cast of Vegas! The Show
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Cast Of V The Ultimate Variety Show 21409
Cast of "V" The Ultimate Variety Show
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Anthony Cools 21398
Hypnotist Anthony Cools
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Carrot Top 21513
Carrot Top
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Chelsea Phillips Reid 21338
Chelsea Phillips Reid
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Chippendale Gavin McHale 21320
Chippendale Gavin McHale
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Claire Sinclair 21496
Claire Sinclair
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Dancers from Divas Las Vegas 21430
Dancers from Divas Las Vegas
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion David Saxe 21579
Producer David Saxe with Recycled Percussion
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion David Saxe Alana Saxe 21461
David Saxe and his wife Alana
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion David Villella 21333
David Villella
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Eric Jordan Young 21343
Eric Jordan Young
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Evil Dead The Musical 21324
Cast members from Evil Dead The Musical
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Frank Marino 21541
Divas Las Vegas star Frank Marino
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Goretorium 21313
Cast members from Eli Roth's Goretorium
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Griffin Hawks 21569
Designer Griffin Hawks
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Jeff Civilico 21441
Comedian/Juggler Jeff Civilico
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Lou Gazzara 21351
Lou Gazzara
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Lydia Ansel Chris Phillips Zowie Bowie 21526
Violinist Lydia Ansel and Singer/Entertainer Chris Phillips
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Marc Savard Joanna Savard 21450
Hypnotist Marc Savard and his wife Joanna
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Maren Wade 21386
iCandy Burlesque star Maren Wade
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Mark Shunock 21379
Rock of Ages star Mark Shunock
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Melinda The First Lady Of Magic 21393
Melinda - The First Lady of Magic
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Models 21468
Reccycled Percussion Grand Opening models
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Mosaic 21546
Mo5aic
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Paul Shortino Carmen Shortino 21434
Rocker Paul Shortino and his wife Carmen
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Professor Wacko 21477
Professor Wacko
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Reva Rice 21334
Reva Rice
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Ricardo Laguna 21504
Ricardo Laguna
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Savanah Smith 21361
Savanah Smith
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Tara Palsha 21327
Tara Palsha
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Tezz Yancey 21364
Tezz Yancey
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Victor Aratas Jenny Arata 21482
Victor and Jenny Arata
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Recycled Percussion Victor James Alicia Perrone Fans of Jimmy Century 21548-a
Victor James and Alicia Perrone of the band Fans of Jimmy Century
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn


Meatball Spot Hosts First Annual Meatball Eating Competition Featuring Strip Entertainers

Saturday afternoon, March 16, Meatball Spot at Town Square La Vegas held a large celebration featuring guests and entertainers from all over the strip in honor of Meatball Spot Day.

The festivities kicked-off with Commissioner, Steve Sisolak proclaiming "Meatball Spot Day" in Clark County. Receiving the restaurant's proclamation was "Top Chef" Carla Pellegrino.

After Sisolak's ceremony, FOX 5 "MORE" show host, Jason Feinberg, took over Meatball Spot Day acting as emcee for Meatball Spot's first annual charity meatball eating contest. Featuring local talents: JC Fernandez of MIX 94.1, Juan DeAngelo and Jon Howes of Chippendales, Mariah of FANTASY, Mark Shunock of Rock of Ages, comedic hypnotist, Marc Savard, and Tacos & Tequila Chef, Saul Ortiz, the contest commenced in an intense round of entertainers and the general public.  Chippendales star, Jon Howes, came out victorious, devouring six classic meatballs and sauce in two-minutes, 37-seconds. Howes won a monetary donation on behalf of ForgetCancerNow.com, in memory of Chippendales cast mate Jaymes' father.
 
In the general public round, Robert Nash was named champion and will be featured in Meatball Spot's meatball eating contest hall-of-fame, with his three-minute, 53-second win.
 
Meatball Spot is open daily for lunch, dinner and late-night dining: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Meatball Spot, located directly across from AMC Theatres at Town Square Las Vegas, remains open for special screenings and big opening nights.
 

Steve Sisolak presenting Carla Pellegrino with proclamation
Clark County Commissioner, Steve Sisolak, presenting “Meatball Spot Day” proclamation to Carla Pellegrino inside Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: David Becker/WireImage

Juan DeAngelo Mark Shunock Jon Howes Mariah Rivera Jason Feinberg Carla Pellegrino Saul Ortiz JC Fernandez and Marc Savard
(L-R) Juan DeAngelo, Mark Shunock, Jon Howes, Mariah Rivera, Jason Feinberg, Carla Pellegrino, Saul Ortiz, JC Fernandez and Marc Savard inside Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: David Becker/WireImage

Marc Savard Saul Ortiz Mariah Rivera Jon Howes Juan DeAngelo Mark Shunock and JC Fernandez during meatball eating contest
(L-R) Marc Savard, Saul Ortiz, Mariah Rivera, Jon Howes, Juan DeAngelo, Mark Shunock and JC Fernandez going head-to-head during meatball eating contest at Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: David Becker/WireImage

Mariah Rivera Jon Howes Juan DeAngelo and Mark Shunock competing in meatball eating contest
(L-R) Mariah Rivera, Jon Howes, Juan DeAngelo and Mark Shunock during meatball eating contest at Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: David Becker/WireImage

Carla Pellegrino with winner Jon Howes
Carla Pellegrino with winner, Jon Howes, after meatball eating contest victory at Meatball Spot
Photo Credit: David Becker/WireImage

 

Dos Caminos Opens New Location in Summerlin

 The popular Mexican eatery, Dos Caminos opened to the public at its new location on Charleston Boulevard in Summerlin’s Canyon Pointe Plaza, March 11, once again bringing its famed guacamole and festive fare to Las Vegas locals and visitors.

Dos Caminos
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn


Corporate Executive Chef Ivy Stark, author of Dos Caminos Mexican Street Food, will oversee the menu for Las Vegas, as she does with the four locations in New York City and the outposts in Atlantic City, New Jersey and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, while Executive Chef Reed Osterholt heads the Las Vegas kitchen. 
 
The Dos Caminos menu builds on classic Mexican staples of guacamole, empanadas and tacos, along with signature dishes including the Rib Eye Steak Alambre with applewood smoked bacon, cipollini onions, poblano chiles, arroz con crema and chimichurri sauce or the Jumbo Sea Scallops with coconut jasmine rice, jicama, grilled pineapple and passion fruit cascabel mojo. The menu also features such brunch offerings as Chilaquiles Verdes, baked tortilla chips casserole, sunny side-up eggs, chihuahua cheese, tomatillo salsa and Mexican French Toast.
 
Not to be missed: the critically acclaimed made-to-order guacamole served with a trio of salsas and warm corn tortilla chips and is offered in the traditional style, or in versions including Jumbo Lump Crab-Chipotle, Mango, Papaya-Habanero or with Bacon, Chicharron and Picked Jalapeno.
 
The cocktail menu is transported “south of the border” with imaginative margaritas and sangria as well as an expansive hand-selected tequila menu featuring the best Mexico has to offer, which can be sampled in flights or one-by-one. Specialty cocktails include seasonal organic margaritas such as the Blue Pomegranate or the Frozen Prickly Pear Margarita.
 
Dos Caminos is open seven days a week, serving dinner from 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until midnight Friday and Saturday.    On Saturday and Sunday beginning March 23, the restaurant will serve brunch from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and a small selection of favorites on the sunset menu from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. before dinner becomes available.  A happy hour menu will be featured at the bar Sunday – Friday from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. – close.
 
Dos Caminos is located at 10820 West Charleston Boulevard.


Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Garden Presents Dazzling Spring Display

In celebration of the rejuvenating Spring season,Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is presenting an eye dazzling display open to the public through May 11. The display features a greenhouse inhabited by live butterflies, a life-size windmill and vibrant displays of more than 8,200 flowers.

Guests will be entranced by the sight of more than 800 live butterflies fluttering inside the 36-foot-long greenhouse located in the East Garden. Around the perimeter of the greenhouse, four live monitors showcase the metamorphosis of the pupae living inside as they transform into beautiful butterflies. The assortment of butterfly species on display originates from several countries around the world including Costa Rica, the Philippines and Kenya and others.

In the West Garden, a  9,000 pound, 26-foot-tall windmill, lures visitors into a captivating garden full of fresh tulips, mums and poppies as well as a larger-than-life display of 17-foot-tall tulips. Overhead, 40 oversized glistening-blue raindrops sprinkle spring showers throughout the garden.

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Photo courtesy of Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

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Photo courtesy of Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

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Photo courtesy of Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens


The North Garden is a tranquil and serene scene with a mother swan and her two cygnets, made of 5,000 feathers and simulated fur, loafing in the cool pond amidst a bridge and waterfall. The pond is surrounded by a field of luminous tulips and three giant mushrooms. Hung overhead throughout the exhibit are 50 butterflies made from organic materials including green crushed Manzanita leaves, orange carrot flakes, lentils, radishes and rice.

Creating a true spring sanctuary, multiple live musical performances take place throughout the Conservatory each day. Through April 7, the Victorian Gazebo in the South Garden will stage the musical entertainment of a solo jazz guitarist Monday through Thursday, and a harp and flute duo Friday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. From April 8 through May 11, the harpist will perform solo Monday through Thursday while a guitar duo takes the stage Friday through Sunday. Surrounding the musicians are two oversized daffodils standing 22 feet tall and two floral ladybugs adorned with carnations.

In conjunction with the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art’s new exhibit “Warhol Out West,” the Conservatory has created a floral interpretation of Andy Warhol’s Diamond Dust Shoes. Located in the Giardini corner, the recreated painting is fitted within a 6-foot-tall elaborately carved frame.

The spring display within Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is complimentary to the public and open daily, 24 hours a day.
 

Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:


THE PHAT PACK officially re-opened on Wednesday, March 13, at 5PM to a standing ovation from an enthusiastic audience!   At the end of the performance, Plaza Executive Jonathan Jossel presented The Phat Pack with an official proclamation from Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman, naming March 13, 2013 “PHAT PACK Day” in the City of Las Vegas.

Inspired by the spirit of the Rat Pack, THE PHAT PACK was formed after three of its members met while performing in “Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular.” Ted Keegan starred as the Phantom in “Phantom of the Opera” both on Broadway and on tour. Randal Keith starred as Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables” on Broadway and on tour, and Bruce Ewing starred in three out of the four roles in “Forever Plaid” on tour and in Las Vegas.

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The Phat Pack
Photo credit : Khanh Nguen

THE PHAT PACK opened to rave reviews, including yours truly,  in November 2012, and returned to the Plaza’s classic showroom with a new schedule - Wednesdays through Sundays at 5 p.m.

This weekend at Eastside Cannery, 5255 Boulder Highway, The Las Vegas Valley Model A Ford Club and Pomona Valley Model A Ford Club are hosting some 200 MODEL A enthusiasts from Nevada, California, Arizona and Utah representing 15 Model A clubs for this annual get-together that traditionally meets in Laughlin, Nev.  Among the weekend activities are car judging, gymkhana games, scale-model races, a poker run and an era fashion show. car judging, gymkhana games, scale-model races, a poker run and an era fashion show.

The public is welcome to view these iconic antiques while they are being judged in a car show between 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23.
 For the gymkhana between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in the south end of the parking lot, drivers will test their skills in four fun competitions: lining up medallions with bumpers, leaning out the car window to hang clothes on a line and identifying Model A car parts by feel.  From 1:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. about 50 participants will race – with antique scale models! – in the Hubley Derby. The contest will be held in the Casablanca ballroom on the second floor.

German illusionist JAN ROUVEN has extended his engagement at the Riviera Casino & Hotel for one year, well into 2014. ILLUSIONS combines Rouven’s death-defying feats with heart-thumping music and audience participation to create an unforgettable experience, with such illusions as the Bed of Death, Fire Spiker and Hand Stab. . Performances are 7 p.m. every Saturday – Thursday at the Riviera’s Starlite Theatre.


L’ATELIER DE JOEL ROBUCHO  at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino has created an exquisite confectionary chocolate display for Easter. Designed by Executive Pastry Chef Kamel Guechida, the creation took more than eight weeks to complete. Guechida and his team of four discussed, sketched and tested dozens of ideas before finalizing the elaborate presentation, which includes colorful chocolate sculptures of nearly 150 flowers, 120 eggs and 60 hens. More than 70 pounds of dark, milk and white chocolate were pressed and shaped into poly carbonate molds to create the specialty pieces.
 
“Once a year, our pastry team is privileged to design a creative display for L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon,” said Chef Guechida. “This holiday season we decided to create the entire Easter display out of chocolate, allowing our team to showcase their superb talent and skill. From the colorful eggs in various shapes and sizes to the sculpture detail on the wings of the butterflies, each piece was handmade with extreme detail and care.”
 
The Easter display will be available for viewing at the restaurant through Monday, April 1.

After taking 8 weeks off to go on tour of the Caribbean and work on 2 TV shows, MURRAY is back performing his show at the Laugh Factory theatre inside the Tropicana Hotel, beginning Monday March 18. Murray's new showtime is 4pm, to give more families an opportunity to see his show as spring break and summer approaches. Showtimes are 6 days a week (Fridays dark) through till Sept. 2, 2013.  Murray's 'sidekick' LEFTY is also back with some comical additions as well as Chloe Crawford, who was just featured in this months 'Sports Illustrated' Magazine!
 
Murray is one of the featured headliners of the reality show 'The Real Headliners of Las Vegas' which is currently being edited in Los Angeles over the next 2 months. Murray stars in the reality pilot with his friends Marc Savard, Gordie Brown, Frank Marino, and Zowie Bowie.


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Murray Sawchuck

Murray Main Shot
Doug "Lefty" Leferovich, Chloe Louise Crawford and Murray

WILLIAM HILL will officially unveil its flagship downtown RACE & SPORTS BOOK at the Plaza Hotel and Casino on Tuesday, March 19. The completely redesigned sports book features 75 TV screens, including 80-inch displays for sports viewing. The space will be open for the first weekend of men’s college basketball tournament action, which begins on Thursday, March 21, with 16 first round games.The space also includes 25 high- and low-top tables with seating, 37 carrels and 12 display boards located above the wagering counter.

On Thursday, March 28, HYDE BELLAGIO invites guests to Vegas’ hottest lounge night beginning with a complimentary wine tasting followed by an exclusive acoustic set by platinum selling singer-songwriter RYAN CABRERA.  Beginning at 7 p.m., guests will sip an array of celebrated wines from around the globe – all free to sample as part of this month’s edition of VINO THURSDAYS. Gourmet small plates from Circo create perfect pairings and will be available to order until 9 p.m.

As the tasting draws to a close, Cabrera will take the stage to deliver a special acoustic set as part of Hyde’s weekly Live Music Thursdays. The talented musician’s fans will take in the famous Fountains of Bellagio while enjoying an unfiltered performance in a rare intimate setting.
 
Vino Thursdays is a series of complimentary wine tastings held one Thursday every month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Notorious DJ/producer 12TH PLANET, known as a bass music pioneer, headlines at Body English Nightclub & Afterhours in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for a series of performances starting Thursday, March 28. The artist and producer will be the property’s exclusive dubstep and drum and bass DJ. 12th Planet will call Body English home on select BASSment Thursdays and Fridays as well as at special REHAB pool parties.

The highly anticipated HAKKASAN LAS VEGAS, opening in April at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, will welcome celebrated artists to its all-star roster of musicians. This illustrious collection of talent also will be performing at MGM Grand’s iconic Wet Republic Ultra Pool. The dynamic line-up joining previously announced artists Tiësto, Calvin Harris, deadmau5 and Steve Aoki includes (in alphabetical order) Bambi, Bingo Players, Bob Sinclar, Dada Life, Danny Avila, Fergie, Hardwell, Laidback Luke, Michael Woods, NERVO, Quintino, R3hab and Tommy Trash.

PBR Rock Bar & Grill inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will host a celebration in honor of the 48th ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS from Friday, April 5, through Sunday, April 7.Patrons will toast their favorite country singers with cocktails inspired by this year’s Entertainer of the Year nominees, priced at $10 each.

The city of Henderson celebrates its 60th anniversary as part of the annual HERITAGE PARADE & FESTIVAL, Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street, in the Water Street District. The day’s activities include a community breakfast with city council, entertainment, classic car show and parade. Admission is complimentary. In honor of its 60th birthday celebration, the city has expanded the event, adding a carnival to the festivities. From Thursday, April 4-Sunday, April 7, families can enjoy a variety of rides and games, fit for all ages. Tickets and all-day wristbands can be purchased at the event during carnival hours.

Sunday, April 7, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL FESTIVAL presents its third showcase in a series of monthly musical events, geared towards providing a platform for the best musicians in the Las Vegas Valley. Each month, the festival hosts free local concerts at varying Downtown Las Vegas venues with the intent of showcasing and selecting a few local acts to play at the highly-anticipated festival this Fall. Attendees of the April Showcase will enjoy a rock-n-roll themed evening complete with $6 Stoli drink specials at one of the hippest Downtown Las Vegas hotspots, Commonwealth.

The April Showcase will feature rock band such as:

A CROWD OF SMALL ADVENTURES: voted the Best Local Rock Band in 2011 by both readers and editors alike in the Las Vegas Review Journal’s Best of Las Vegas issue.  Moondog Matinee: The band describes itself as throwback to the past, laced with a timeless sexual swagger and rapturous vision of the future.

AVALON LANDING: Frequently described as piano based rock, Avalon Landing takes full advantage of having four vocalists in the band utilizing incredible three-part harmonies that give them a unique vibe.

THE DIRTY HOOKS: An indie, blues, alternative rock band who have been named one of the top ten bands to know in 2013 by the Las Vegas Weekly. 

Doors open at 5 pm. Performances are from  6 pm- 11 pm

BEN & JERRY'S will commemorate its 35th Annual “FREE CONE DAY” at Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shops at the District at Green Valley Ranch and inside Sunset Station Hotel & Casino on Tuesday, April 9.  Gracious celebrity guests will roll up their sleeves and scoop ice cream throughout the day between Noon and 8 p.m. to raise money to benefit St. Jude’s Ranch for Children. All small cones are FREE with no purchase necessary but patrons are encouraged to make a donation to the store’s respective charity partners. The star studded lineup has yet to be announced.

GOLDEN GAMING LLC, operators of PT’s and Sierra Gold taverns, has named Executive Chef JOSEPH ROMANO as vice president of operations for the company’s tavern division, PT’s Entertainment Group.. In addition to his culinary duties, Romano is now also responsible for all day-to-day operations for the company’s taverns.

STUDIO CAFE at MGM Grand closed on Saturday, March 16. The space is undergoing renovations and will re-open as Avenue Bar & Grill, a 24 hour restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, in summer 2013.


Celebrity Sightings:

Tuesday night, March 12...

PURE Nightclub inside Caesars Palace celebrated its 8th anniversary party with a special guest performance by pop sensation Ke$ha.

Kesha PURE Nightclub Anniversary Performance 4
Ke$ha performing
Photo credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Kesha PURE Nightclub Anniversary Red Carpet
Ke$ha
Photo credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Thursday night, March 14...

 NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez was seen at TAO’s Worship Thursdays, partying VIP-style with friends.

Friday night, March 15...

Patrick Peterson of the Arizona Cardinals and his wife were spotted taking in the sounds of DJ Ross One at a VIP table insideTAO Nightclub.

Singer, songwriter and GRAMMY-Award-winning artist Miguel gave a sizzling performance at LAX Nightclub inside Luxor Hotel & Casino. Nearing 1:30 a.m., the R&B singer made his way into the hot spot accompanied by his father and stunning girlfriend Nazanin Mandi.

Miguel 2 LAX Nightclub Al Powers
Miguel
Photo: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC.

Miguel performance 3 LAX Nightclub Al Powers
Miguel
Photo: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC.

Local comedy-hypnotist Marc Savard was spotted experiencing Blue Man Group with his wife Joanna at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. Following the show, Savard attended a private meet-and-greet with the Blue Men.

3.15.13 Hypnotist Marc Savard Attends Blue Man Group at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino
Marc Savard and his wife Joanna with Blue Man
Photo courtesy of Blue Man Group

Saturday, March 16...

Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman stopped by Tryst nightclub for the weekly S.K.A.M. Saturdays event. The singer, currently enjoying the group’s new residency show at The Mirage, was spotted hanging at a VIP table with music mogul Jermaine Dupri before he hit the decks for his DJ set.

Tryst - Jermaine Dupri - 3.16.13
Jermaine Dupri
Photos attached courtesy of Danny Mahoney/Tryst nightclub.

Tryst - Shawn Stockman - Jermaine Dupri - 3.16.13
Shawn Stockman and Jermaine Dupri
Photos attached courtesy of Danny Mahoney/Tryst nightclub.

Hip-hop artist and local Loberace star CeeLo Green made his way to Chateau Nightclub & Gardens  nightspot where he joined R&B artist Jeremih’s strip-side bash.

Travie McCoy, lead vocalist of Gym Class Heroes and solo artist launched Spring Break with a live performance at PURE Nightclub inside Caesars Palace. The music sensation stole the show as he took over the venue’s iconic stage at 1:30 a.m. along with artists Ax and Tim Williams.

Travie McCoy Performance PURE Nightclub 3.17.13
Travie McCoy
Photo credit: Brenton Ho of Powers Imagery LLC.

Actors Rupert Grint and Tom Felton, known for their roles in the Harry Potter film series, were spotted at TAO.

At LAVO, comedian Kathy Griffin was seen at dinner with her boyfriend.

Sunday, March 17...

The gorgeous dancers from FANTASY heated up the St. Patrick’s Day festivities at Public House Las Vegas inside  Luxor Hotel & Casino.

FANTASY Ladies host St. Patricks Day at Public House Las Vegas
Fantasy dancers
Photo credit: Jeff Ragazzo

Tuesday, March 19...

Hip-hop icons Rev Run and Ruckus put on an unrivaled DJ and MC set for clubgoers at Angel PURE Nightclub inside Caesars Palace during the official Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show party.

Rev Run and Ruckus PURE Nightclub Red Carpet
Rev Run and Rukus
Photo credit: Brenton Ho of Powers Imagery LLC.

Wyclef Jean was spotted at HERAEA at Palms Casino Resort.  The rapper, who was joined by friends and business associates.

 


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