By Judy Thorburn
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Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Entertainment Reporter/Film Critic - Las Vegas Tribune
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
www.theflickchicks.com
Frankie’s Tiki Room Hosts Preview Party With Top Tiki Artists
Frankie’s Tiki Room, the only authentic tiki bar in Las Vegas, hosted a private preview party Tuesday night, December 2 giving guests a first look at the one-of-a-kind tiki environment complemented by traditional carvings, original Polynesian art, a full bar and gaming. The party was hosted by P Moss, the founder of Frankie’s Tiki Room who is also renowned for creating the infamous Double Down Saloon, located in Las Vegas and New York City.
P. Moss and Bamboo Ben
Photo credit: Erik Kabik/RETNA
In attendance were some of the world’s top tiki carvers who had a hand in creating Frankie’s unique vibe. They included Bamboo Ben, the world’s foremost tiki room designer and grandson of Eli Hedley, who created the décor for the legendary Aku Aku at the Stardust (the Aku Aku now resides in Sunset Park) ; Crazy Al Evans, credited for his sculpture known as “Polynesian Pop” and for creating Frankie’s signature tiki, a monstrous island warrior; Tiki Ray, who is famous for carving in traditional island style, bringing out an authentic look and feel on all his finished pieces; and Buzzy of San Diego Tiki Factory
Buzzy of San Diego Tiki Factory
Photo credit: Erik Kabik/RETNA
Crazy Al Evans and Tiki Ray
Photo credit: Erik Kabik/RETNA
Upon arrival, guests were greeted with handcrafted limited edition tiki charmers, which were carved and signed by Tiki Ray and created exclusively for the party. The intimate space was packed to capacity as guests enjoyed the different elements that make Frankie’s atmosphere so unique, including the variety of original exotic drinks and collectible souvenir mugs, tiki statues and handcrafted artwork. Located at 1712 W. Charleston Blvd., Frankie’s opens to the public Thursday, Dec. 4 and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Sneak Peak at Disney’s “The Lion King” Set To Open at Mandalay Bay
After six very successful years at Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino Mammia Mia! will be closing on January 4th. But the good news is the theatre won’t be dark for long. In its place will be the beloved, highly anticipated, Tony Award winning Broadway musical, The Lion King which will open to preview audiences in April of 2009, followed by a Gala premiere opening night event on May 2.
Kissy Simmons (Nala) Tshidi Manye (Rafiki) and Dashaun Young (Simba)
To make it official, the media was invited to a sneak peak of the upcoming Disney production, their first in Las Vegas, on Friday December 5. As an example of what to expect, members of the world famous Broadway cast: Tshidi Manye (who plays Rafiki), Kissy Simmons (who plays Nala) and Dashaun Young (who portrays Simba) were flown in from New York to perform three numbers from the show.
As an introduction to the “sneak peak”, Bill Hornbuckle, President of Mandalay Bay stated that when it comes to entertainment, “The one thing that is missing in Las Vegas is the magic of Disney. The Lion King brings a spirit to a production Las Vegas has not seen.” He then added, “As one of the most successful show in the history of the world, The Lion King offers enlightenment and encouragement at a time we can use it.”
Thomas Schumacher, President/Producer of Disney Theatrical Productions
A very enthusiastic Thomas Schumacher, President/Producer of Disney Theatrical Productions was also on hand giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at the creative development of the musical show that was adapted from Disney’s original feature film. Video clips highlighted the creative talents of director/costume designer Julie Taymor (the first woman to win the Tony Award in 1998 for “Best Direction of a Musical” for The Lion King) and offered insight on how she conceived the idea for the masks and costumes. Taymor said it was most important for her to “get inside the story” in order to come up with her vision and the creation of the masks and puppets that allow duo elements of human as well as animal to be seen. She was shown working on the clay masks and sculpturing the designs that are an integral part of celebrating the essence of Africa on stage.
As a result of this sampling which was informative as well as entertaining, I left with a memorable taste and look forward to seeing the magnificent production presented in its entirety, unabbreviated and exactly the same as the Broadway version.
The Lion King is currently in its eleventh sold-out
year on Broadway and has been seen by more than 45 million people in 11 countries. In addition to Julie Taymor, who also wrote the lyrics for one song, the creative team includes score creator Hans Zimmer, legendary singer/songwriter Sir Elton John; lyricist Tim Rice; and award-winning choreographer Garth Fagan. Additional musical material has been provided by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Jay Rifkin. The book has been adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated film and Irene Mecci, who co-wrote the screenplay for The Lion King.
The Lion King preview performances are scheduled to begin April 22, 2009 with regularly scheduled performances beginning May 2, 2009 inside the Mandalay Bay Theatre. Tickets will go on sale in February and will range in price from $53 to $113.50. A VIP package priced at $168.50 will include premium seating, a program and a gift. All ticket prices include taxes and fees.
Major League Baseball Players Hold 4th Annual Poker Tournament at Palazzo Las Vegas.
On December 5 Texas Rangers Relief Pitcher, Eddie Guardado and over 35 of his fellow major league baseball buddies kicked off their 4th Annual Poker Tournament weekend at The Palazzo Las Vegas with a private VIP reception inside the Sportsbook Bar & Grill. The reception was held in support of The Eddie Guardado Foundation which offers financial support for families faced with the high cost of therapy and treatment for their children affected by Autism.
The Sportsbook Bar & Grill at The Palazzo was the ideal place to kick off the series of weekend events for this group as they felt right at home in the relaxing and carefree environment that features sports memorabilia adorning the walls and the latest sporting events playing on all of the over 70 televisions in the venue.
Some notables attending the reception included: Eddie and Lisa Guardado; Eric Chavez, Oakland A’s Third Baseman; Brad Thompson, St. Louis Cardinals Pitcher; Bill Madlock, 4x National Batting Champion, Retired Pittsburg Pirates; John Daniels, tone of the two youngest GMs in major league baseball; Kyle Lohse, St. Louis Cardinals Starting Pitcher; Randy Flores, St. Louis Cardinals Pitcher; Joel Piniero, St. Louis Cardinals Pitcher; Justin Leone, Seattle Mariners Third Baseman; Latroy Hawkins, Houston Astros Pitcher; Mike Lincoln, Cincinnati Reds Pitcher.
On December 6 at 10 a.m., Eddie and his MLB buddies started their 4th annual poker tournament in The Venetian Poker Room with each of the 32 MLB players vying for the bragging rights and “The Force” championship watch provided by Charriol. Notable players included: Eddie Guardado, Texas Rangers Closer; Milton Bradley, Texas Rangers Outfielder; Frank Thomas, Oakland A’s First Baseman; Eric Chavez, Oakland A’s Third Baseman; Michael Young, Texas Rangers Short Stop; Brad Thompson, St. Louis Cardinals Pitcher; Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins Pitcher; Aaron Hill, Toronto Blue Jays Second Baseman; Latroy Hawkins, Houston Astro’s Pitcher; Eric Young, ESPN Announcer on Baseball Tonight; and Reed Johnson, Chicago Cubs Outfielder.
Reed Johnson, Eddie Guardado and Frank Thomas
Bob Wells
Bobby Kielty, Oakland A’s Outfielder, entered the tournament as the two time reigning champion of the Eddie Guardado Annual Poker Tournament and after the lunch break at 12 p.m. only 20 of the 32 original players remained. 2pm marked the final table of players and a few hours later the champion was named: Oakland A’s First Baseman, Frank Thomas. For his win, Frank claims bragging rights for an entire year, a crystal plaque and a Charriol watch from the Force Collection valued at $6,590. Chicago Cubs Outfielder, Reed Johnson took home 2nd place and Charriol watch from the Columbus Collection, valued at $1,890. Bob Wells, retired Minnesota Twins Pitcher captured the third spot and a Charriol watch from the Actor Collection, valued at $1,690.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
On November 20, 2008 the Billboard Touring Awards named the Colosseum at Caesars Palace the ‘Top Venue Under 5,000 Seats’. The award was accepted by AEG LIVE, one of the largest concert promotion and touring companies in the world. AEG Live was also nominated for ‘Top Promoter’. The 2008 Billboard Touring Awards honors the concert industry's top artists and professionals for the year, based on the Billboard Boxscores chart. To see a full list of the winners visit www.billboardevents.com
Beginning Nov. 29, 2008 through December 31, The Xtreme Magic Holiday Spectacular starring Dirk Arthur is being presented at the Tropicana Las Vegas. The magician adds a new holiday twist to his afternoons show with the addition of festive music, seasonal illusions, special
guest appearances and more magic. There will also be audience participation, live dancers, festive attire, gift giving and a special guest appearance by Santa Claus.
Tickets are available beginning at $20 plus tax and surcharge. Dinner and show packages are also available starting at $25 plus applicable taxes and fees. Show tickets and convenience packages can be purchased
at the Tropicana Box Office or by calling 702-739-2411.
As of Friday, Dec. 5, Pink Jeep Tours – Las Vegas, Inc. is dropping its $5 fuel surcharge in response to decreasing gas prices. The $5 per person surcharge was applied to all full-day tours including Grand Canyon, Zion National Park and Death Valley. The average full-day Pink Jeep Tour price begins at approximately $200. For more information about Pink Jeep Tours, the premier off-road tour company in the Southwest, go to www.pinkjeep.com
Four expert runners from around the world will participate in the 2008 Las Vegas Marathon on December 6 that begins 6 a.m. at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and continues down the Las Vegas Strip. Heading up the men’s field are Geoffrey Kiprotich and Stephen Kibet from Kenya, and Abebe Yimer of Ethiopia. With personal best times clocking in at 2:18:27 (Kiprotich), 2:14:10 (Kibet), and 2:13:52 (Yimer), the men’s field is in for some stiff competition. Nadezhda Tuptova of Russia (personal best time of 2:41:56) will lead the way in the women’s field. In 2008 Tuptova was crowned the female champion of the Quad Cities Marathon, Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon, and the Five Points of Life Half Marathon.
In celebration of the National Finals Rodeo, the legendary nightclub Studio 54 at MGM Grand welcomes Ricky and the Redstreaks, a one-of-a-kind comedy and singing troupe, for nightly performances beginning 10:30 p.m. December 7-13. Ricky and the Redstreaks will perform one-hour sets into the early hours of the morning. Admission is $10 at the door. Studio 54 will also offer buckets of Coors and Budweiser beverages for $36 as well as specials on Jack Daniels and Crown Royal cocktails. Doors will open at 10 p.m. with DJeneration starting the evening with a mix of country sound and heart-pumping beats.
On December 10 from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Southern Hills Hospital is hosting a free Lunch & Learn class open to the public on how to beat the flu this holiday season. The class is presented by internist and pediatrician Dr. Constantine George, who will be on hand after the class to answer questions about flu symptoms and treatment options for children and adults. Southern Hills Hospital is located on 9399 W, Sunset Road, on Fort Apache, 1 block west of the Sunset Road exit from I-215. Seating is limited, interested patrons may reserve their space by calling Southern Hills Hospital at 702-233-5300
Smooth Jazz 105.7 the Oasis will be set up in front of the Railhead at Boulder Station from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday December 12 to collect toys that will be donated to AFAN for children infected with HIV. Each person who donates a new, unwrapped toy will receive a raffle ticket which will enter them into a drawing for prizes, including a season 2009 pass to jazz shows at Station Casinos, an overnight stay at Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, tickets to UNLV Rebels basketball and more. Winners must be present to win. For complete rules or more information, please visit www.1057theoasis.com and click on concerts/events.
Rock ‘n Roll Wine will host their 2008 Winter Wine Bash featuring critically acclaimed artist Low Vs Diamond along with special guests on Saturday, December 13th at the Celebrity Theatre. The event will feature more than 25 unique wines combined with an incredible evening of live music. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. The festivities will conclude at 10:30 p.m. with the official after-party right next door at the SideBar on 3rd Street.
Tickets are priced at $35 in advance and $40 at the door, not including applicable Live Entertainment Tax (LET). Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.rocknrollwine.com. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Rock ‘n Roll Wine office at (702) 240-3066 Monday thru Friday 9am to 5pm. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. One ticket gets you all wine tasting and live entertainment as well as a $10 voucher redeemable at local retailers for featured wines and a 20% discount on dinner that same evening at Triple George Grill.
The Cupcakery is celebrating National Cupcake Day by giving a free Southern Belle (moist red velvet cake smothered in cream cheese frosting) or Tickle Me Pink cupcake (classic white cake topped with pink buttercream frosting) to everyone who walks in the door on Monday, Dec. 15 from 10am – 6 p.m. The two Cupcakery locations are at 9680 S. Eastern, Suite 100 and 7175 W. Lake Mead, Suite 118.
The 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival will be held June 11 – 20, 2009 at the Palms Casino Resort and Brenden Theatres in Las Vegas. Submissions are being accepted from now until March 1, 2009, through Withoutabox’s International Festival Submissions System at www.withoutabox.com. Submissions received by January 15, 2009 will be eligible for an early bird discount. Cash prizes totaling $14,000 will be awarded to select films in the categories of feature film, documentary, short film and Nevada filmmaking short.
From November 28 through December 24 children of all ages are invited to have their picture taken with Santa Claus in the main lobby at the Excalibur located just off Las Vegas Boulevard. For more information call (702) 597-7777 or Toll Free (877) 750-5464.
On December 12, 2008, The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is hosting their first annual Poker Jingle at the Hard Rock Poker Lounge. The holiday bash, which is open to the public, will feature hors d’oeuvres and cocktails from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Hard Rock Santa’s helpers, a silent auction, and a tribute to Mindy Trinidad - a popular member of the poker community who recently lost her battle with Leukemia - presented by close friend Kelli Griggs. Tom McEvoy will host a $200 + $30 celebrity poker tournament (CPT) starting at 3 p.m. with all proceeds benefitting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Socity (LLS) of Southern Nevada.
Professional and celebrity poker players expected to participate include Phil Hellmuth, Jamie Gold, Erick Lindgren, Beth Shak, Tiffany Michelle, Jennifer Harman, Todd Brunson, Brad Booth, Andy Bloch, Barry Greenstein, JJ Liu, Antonio Esfandiari, Lee Watkinson, Layne Flack, Brandon Cantu, Jeff Madsen, Lee Watkinson, Roy Winston, Lee Markholt, James Van Alstyne, Marco Traniello, Maria Ho, Chad Brown, and Mark Newhouse. Fans and spectators are also welcome and celebrities will be available to sign autographs.
Tournament seats are limited. Pre-register by visiting the LLS Active.com payment processing page located at http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1658857&assetId=d09e6f2e-4552-4677-b288-baa228ad939e or visit www.lls.org/pokerjingle and follow the steps to make the recommended donation. Participants may also register at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Poker Lounge on the day of the event. For updated event information and “Sponsor A Pro” promotions visit http://www.greasiewheels.com.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 21 through December 24, children can share their last minute wishes with jolly Santa Claus during his appearance in the Shark Reef aquarium’s shipwreck exhibit at Mandalay Bay. With each paid admission, children 12 and under will receive a complimentary candy cane and a photograph with Santa to remember this unique holiday experience. Shark Reef Aquarium admission is $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children; kids four and under are free. Discounts are available for Nevada residents with valid I.D.
On Saturday, December 20, McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino is offering anyone born in the month of December FREE drinks of their choosing from 10 p.m. until midnight. Friends and family may join in on the birthday celebration with a $10 for women, $20 for guys all-you-can-drink special, and $3 drinks from midnight until close. Any birthday boy or girl arriving with a group of 15 guests or more will receive a birthday gift of $50 in cash, courtesy of McFadden’s. All guests must check in and purchase a wristband.
Nevada Ballet Theatre’s version of the heart-warming holiday tale The Nutcracker, staged by Ballet Mistress Clarice Geissel-Rathers, with original choreography by Bruce Steivel will be presented on Wednesday, December 17 through Sunday, December 28, 2008 at UNLV’s Judy Bayley Theatre, 4505 Maryland Parkway. This year, Nevada Ballet Theatre will offer special holiday photos with the beautiful “snowflakes” from the ballet, during intermission at all 15 performances. For only $10, patrons can pose with these beautiful ballerinas for a treasured keepsake memento! In addition, Nevada Ballet Theatre’s boutique will have Nutcrackers, special Nutcracker books and CDs available for purchase. Ticket prices for each performance of The Nutcracker range from $85 to $45 with premium and non-premium dates available and can be ordered by calling (702) 895-ARTS (2787) or by visiting www.nevadaballet.com.
After 10 successful years in business AJ’s Steakhouse, the classic restaurant located inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, is closing on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008 at midnight. As a farewell, AJ’s is inviting guests to “Dine Like Its 1999” with menu items priced equivalent to the time the restaurant opened in 1999. Guests can indulge in delectable entrées such as the mouth-watering 20 oz. New York Strip or the 2.5 lb Main Lobster with a variety of sides to choose from for up to 25% off the 2008 cost – for example the New York Strip in 2008 is $44, but the New York Strip in 1999 was $33. In appreciation for the support throughout the years from Las Vegas locals and guests alike, AJ’s will bring back the trademark grand piano every Friday and Saturday night from 9pm to close with local pianist, Peter Radd to play signature tunes from the 1960s. For reservations at AJ’s Steakhouse please call 702.693.5500. For additional information visit www.hardrockhotel.com
Stomp Out Loud has been named the official show sponsor for the 2008 Pioneer Las Vegas Bowl. The two competing teams participating in the game on December 20 will first attend an exhilarating performance of STOMP OUT LOUD On December 17. All Las Vegas Bowl fans can enjoy a special 2-for-1 offer on tickets good from December 15 – January 4, by saying “Las Vegas Bowl” at the Stomp Out Loud Box Office. However tickets are subject to availability and blackout dates may apply.
Ultimate Fighting Championship is presenting three classic bouts on the historic final card of the year UFC 92: THE ULTIMATE 2008, live Saturday, Dec. 27 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Headlining the fight card is UFC light heavyweight champion and the original The Ultimate Fighter® Forrest Griffin. Griffin will defend his belt against The Ultimate Fighter® Season 2 heavyweight winner Rashad Evans, fresh off a devastating knockout win against former UFC champion Chuck Liddell. Tickets (limited to eight (8) per person) are priced at $800, $600, $400, $250, $150, $75, not including applicable service charges and can be purchased at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office or on line at www.mgmgrand.com.
Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel will present a New year’s Eve show Wednesday, December 31 at 7 p.m. at the Casablanca Room titled “That’s Italian,” featuring classic entertainers including accordionist extraordinaire Dick Contino; vocalist/pianist Frankie Randall; comedian Pete Barbutti; legendary pianist and conductor Vincent Falcone; and the incomparable Jerry Vale. Tickets start at $24.95 plus tax and fees. Tickets can be purchased at the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel’s ticket sales counter located at the front desk. Tickets are also available for purchase by calling (702) 856-5300.
On Saturday, January 17 at 8 p.m. Country music superstar Reba McEntire will perform at the Orleans Arena. The concert will feature popular songs from her most recent album, “Duets,” which debuted atop the Billboard 200, along with hits that span her award-winning career. Tickets are priced at $60 and $75, including all taxes and fees. As an extra bonus, for each Reba McEntire ticket purchased from now until December 31, buyers will receive a free ticket to the Sam’s Town 300—scheduled for February 28, 2009 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Tickets can be purchased at the Orleans Arena Box Office by calling 702.284.7777 or by visiting www.orleansarena.com. Buyers should use code NASCAR to receive free Sam’s Town 300 tickets.
Celebrity sightings:
On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Ozzy Osbourne celebrated his birthday with wife Sharon and two daughters Aimee and Kelly by attending the Divine Miss M’s show, The Showgirl Must Go On at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. After the show, the Osbourne’s went backstage to meet Bette and take a few photos.
Thursday night Middleweight World Champion Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins enjoyed dinner at the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill inside MGM Grand.
Spotted having lunch Friday at the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill was Boxer Sugar Shane Mosley.
On Friday evening, December 5:
Mike Tyson, former baseball slugger Mo Vaughn, San Diego Chargers standout Shaun Phillips, Too Short, Derrek Lee, and Barfield were spotted inside Drai’s After Hours at Bill’s Gamblin’ Saloon.
Country superstar/actress Reba McEntire and "American Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson were in the audience at Bette Midler's "The Showgirl Must Go On." Both attended the show separately.
Several actors and athletes were seen at LAVO inside The Palazzo. James Caan, who has a strong connection with the city through his recent TV series Las Vegas, came to visit friend Chef Ludo and sample the offerings at LAVO.
Also dining were poker star Johnny Chan and baseball great Mo Vaughn, while actor Giovanni Ribisi, was spotted on the LAVO terrace.
Upstairs in the nightclub baseball player Frank Thomas and former NBA star Charles Barkley and a group of male friends enjoyed the evening. Also spotted was Zach from Real World Key West.
Benji Madden was at spotted hanging out at a VIP table inside Wasted Space at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
On Saturday, December 6:
Siegfried & Roy were spotted amongst a sea of more than 5,500 hundred Santas at the fourth annual Las Vegas Great Santa Run at Fremont Street Experience. Fan club members from throughout the world came to show their support and participate in the event which benefited Opportunity Village. Siegfried & Roy paraded through the crowds to the starting line in a Bentley convertible.
Siegfried and Roy at Las Vegas 4th Annual Santa Run
Photo credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Saturday evening was a star-studded night at both LAVO (The Palazzo) and TAO (The Venetian) as celebs in town for the De La Hoya/Pacquiao bout chose these two hot venues for post fight parties.
Heading first to LAVO, Eva Longoria, Marc Anthony and Russell Crowe took a dance floor table and showed off their moves to the sounds of DJ Five. Also there for a second night in a row was former NBA star Charles Barkley, who sent a magnum of champagne over to the group’s table. After enjoying LAVO for a few hours, Longoria and friends decided to head to TAO via the LAVO/TAO custom Escalade golf cart. They were seen cheering their driver on to go faster as they made their way across the casino floor. Once there, R&B superstar Usher joined their table for the rest of the evening.
Also dining at LAVO was Grammy nominee singer and songwriter Keyshia Cole, who was with Madhouse creator Jeff Beacher. They enjoyed some menu favorites before heading up to the nightclub.
LAVO regular, poker player Daniel Negreanu and cohorts from the Real Deal paired a bottle of Opus One with their meal.
Over at TAO, Will.I.AM was spotted, as was Nick Carter, who was on hand to celebrate the 21st birthday of his twin siblings Aaron and Angel.
Actor Carlos Ponce spotted having lunch with friends at Hawaiian Tropic Zone inside Miracle Mile Shops.
After Saturday's De La Hoya- Pacquiao match, boxing greats reunited at Studio 54 at MGM Grand for the Official Golden Boy After-Fight Party. "Sugar" Shane Mosley, former lightweight, welterweight and jr. middleweight champion, and Bernard Hopkins, former undisputed middleweight champion, partied until the early hours of the morning at the legendary nightclub. Also in attendance was former light-heavyweight UFC champion, Tito Ortiz, boxing historian Bert Randolph Sugar and boxing sensations Juan Diaz, Sergio "The Latin Snake" Mora and Victor Ortiz.
The following celebrities were spotted over at the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill inside MGM Grand following the big fight: Will Ferrell, Bernard Hopkins,Reggie Miller,Gary Sheffield, Danny McBride, Craig Robinson and Mario Lopez.
Actor Jesse Metcalfe from Desparate Housewives celebrated his birthday at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and was seen having dinner at Nobu.
Comedian, Wayne Brady, celebrated his Grammy Award nomination over dinner Sunday night (12.7.08) at Wolfgang Puck’s CUT inside The Palazzo. He was joined by a party of 20 people, which included friends, family and his producer. The kitchen presented Brady with a congratulatory dessert that read, “Congrats on the Grammy.” Brady and the group were thrilled, and they took plenty of photos.
On Sunday night LAVO at The Palazzo capped off a star studded weekend with more celebrity sightings. Musicians were out in full force, with Backstreet Boy Nick Carter, who brought his little sister Ashley for dinner at the Mediterranean hot spot as the final celebration of her 21st birthday weekend.
Sitting at a table nearby was rocker, Maynard James Keenan, the eccentric singer of Tool and A Perfect Circle, who is also a budding winemaker. In town to promote a new release from his winery Caduceus, it was no surprise he stuck to grapes when ordering his beverage of choice, a bottle of Nickel and Nickel Cabernet.
Also spotted at LAVO was magician David Blaine. He arrived at 3 am with friends and then disappeared in true magician style a short while later.
I will be back next week with more of what’s “happening” in and around Las Vegas.
