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STING
Sting, who likes the idea of helping the Tiger Woods Foundation which supports local charities in Las Vegas said golf isn't his game, "I feel it spoils a good walk, in my opinion," says the rock icon. I can't see me in the clothes. Sting had taken private golf lessons from Tiger Woods, which Woods volunteered to benefit the Rainforest Foundation, which Sting co-founded.
Tiger Jam, which was a big sellout last week at the Mandalay Bay Event Center was a hoot; I bet you haven't heard that before. That means a good time for the old folks. After all, Sting reaches every age group and he's been performing in Las Vegas since 1988. "It struck me more and more that Vegas has become a real city with real citizens and a real demographic," he states. While in Vegas the subdued Sting performed at the Red Rock Resort at its opening. Be sure to be on the look out for Sting's new album with his current streamline touring band. "I'm interested in doing something a little more surprising," he says. Surprising is right, two guitars and no keyboards.
AMERICAN IDOL'S NEW SHOW
Simon Cowell, the talent judge from American Idol that tends to be so difficult in his judging, has a brand new show called, America's Got Talent. The same company which produces American Idol made a stop in Las Vegas to pick up some talent. If you weren't there maybe you will get a chance by going to L.A. To audition for America's Got Talent call Muskat at 323-782-0430 or email her at heddam@aol.com.
NEW STUDIO FOR ROBIN LEACH
Robin Leach has made a new deal with Sony on its Vegas HD Studios, a major production facility which will be located on the property next to the Aladdin on Harmon and Las Vegas Blvd. A few months ago when I spoke to Michael Mecca he informed me that they were building a studio for Mr. Leach. That's the way to go, 'champagne wishes and caviar dreams' Leach knows his stuff. The studio will provide services ranging from post-production to commercial production. "Now what happens in Las Vegas can be sent around the world instantly in every possible format," stated Leach.
RADIO ICON MOVES TO THE PHILPPINES
Art Bell, the controversial talk show host who broadcast from Pahrump is moving to the Philippines. Bell whose show is entitled 'Coast to Coast AM' married a twenty-year-old from the Philippines after a video conference courtship. Bell's overnight radio show became a hit in the '90s on KDWN. He also gained a lot of publicity leaving radio after he found that his son was sexually molested by an HIV-infected substitute teacher in Pahrump.
PRINCE VISITS PURE NIGHT CLUB
Prince, the recording artist, who is rather non-public, stopped by Pure Nightclub's VIP Red Room recently. He had asked that the room be cleared so he and his lady friend could have some intimate privacy. His favorite drink that evening was long island ice tea and port wine for his three-hour stay. If you've ever been to Pure and you're not a VIP, the lines are horrendous.
DE LA HOYA READY FOR MAYORGA
Oscar De La Hoya certainly has uplifted boxing since he became a promoter. He has told everyone that he has retired but most of us realized he had boxing in his blood and sooner or later he would have to make a comeback. But his fight this Saturday will be a tough one. According to Oscar though, he's been sparing with several fighters from Puerto Rico who are much like Ricardo Mayorga. Mayorga on the other hand is a brawler and is very strong so this fight entitled 'Danger Zone' is exactly that. The question now is who will win the world's super welterweight championship belt. Well according to Don King, Mayorga will win. But remember, King isn't always right. He found that out when Zeb Judah didn't knock out Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
I'll put my money on Oscar De La Hoya.
ORIGIN INDIA MAKES DEBUT
Raja Majid, the CEO of Origin India has a world-class rating with his Indian Cuisine in London of all places. OrifinAsia-Richmond is in Richmond Surrey, London and the Sultan Balti Palace is in Wokingham Berkshire, as well as another one called The Sultan Express also in Wokingham Berkshire. Mr. Majid became enchanted with Las Vegas when he met his beautiful wife, Alena. Since that time he has bought Vinod Ahujah, Director-Cuisine & Operations. I am an avid lover of Indian Cuisine and I can tell you that there are some unique variations of the way Origin Indian prepares their food. It is absolutely delicious. For unique atmosphere and a somewhat rustic, earthy setting with candles to guide your dining, please do yourself a favor and take a journey in this fine restaurant. Incitingly all my guests, which included Michael Carter, Ice-T's friend and entrepreneur and Beryl Warren are both world travelers and gave an A-plus rating for the evening of dining.
PARIS HILTON CELEBRATES BOYFRIEND'S BIRTHDAY
Paris Hilton was recently talking to one of her girl pals about being embarrassed when they wouldn't let Stavros Niarchos in Tao, the nightclub at the Venation.
Well she doesn't have to worry any more because Stavros turned 21 last month. In celebrating her boyfriend's birthday, Paris bought a party of twenty-one to Fix in the Ballagio. Later that evening they went over to Light, also in the Ballagio and then headed to TAO. Hilton was in good company with the likes of NFL star Tom Brady, Alex Von Furstenberg, Seventh Heaven star, David Gallagher, Chris Hinds, Gregory Smith, and Theodora Richards.
BRUCE WILLIS KNOWS HIS PLACE
Everyone knows that Bruce Willis is a cool guy most of the time. Star seekers feel like he's a regular guy and that is why they ask him for autographs all the time. Willis on the other hand, understands that's part of his occupation as an actor. He can also be nonchalant and walk away. What a lot of people don't know about Bruce Willis is that he can party heavy. While at the House of Blues not long ago, Willis was not feeling any pain enjoy the drinks at the Foundation Room. But he was there to see his friend James Brown, The Godfather of Soul who recently celebrated his 50th anniversary as the hardest workingman in show business at the ripe age of 72.
LOUIE ANDERSON MAKES EXCALIBAR HIS HOME
Louie Anderson billed as one of the top comedians of all time by Comedy Central has made Excalibur is new home. Anderson who is advertised as 'Larger the Life' talks about his childhood and how he grew up with a father who is an alcoholic. In fact, he wrote a book on it. Anderson, like so many stars enjoys the electricity of Las Vegas and also like to play the slots. Las Vegas is now his home.
CELEBRITIES, PRETTY LADIES AND COLORFUL CHARACTERS MAKE BOXING
There are three things that melt together in the world of boxing: celebrities, pretty ladies, and colorful characters of sorts. Along with these three things there are also many charitable organizations who connect themselves to the world of boxing; such is the case with the Retired Boxers Foundation founded by Alex Ramos.
Ramos retired in 1994 after losing to Jorge Castro for the World Middle-Weight Championship. "I was inspired to start the foundation after working on a project with Sharon Stone." Stone's charity Planet Hope is devoted to aiding homeless mothers and their children which gave Ramos the platform to start his organization. The Retired Boxers Foundation has helped hundreds of fighters in need of assistance with their transition into a dignified retirement. Their motto, 'Fighters Helping Fighters' is also working on a retirement fund. "I want to do all the work I can in helping fighters throughout the world. That's my goal and I am proud to be doing this work," concluded Ramos.
CHRISTINE KWAN—RIPE FOR STARDOM
Christine Kwan the U.S. national boxing champion, is not only a very talented boxer, but she is a born actress as well as a businesswoman. She has filmed an exclusive documentary with China's most popular TV host, Yue Sai Kan. Her goal is to be a role model to the children of the world and a hero to the people. A compassionate, beautiful, and insightful lady, Christina Kwan has talent from her toes to the top of her head—especially in boxing. She won a gold medal in the US women's boxing championship in Spokane, Washington in 2004 and has not looked back since. Now as a professional fighter weighing in at 102 pounds Kwan has been signed by top rank and will fight on the Corrales/Castillo III on June 3rd at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas. In conclusion, Christina Kwan, who speaks fluent Chinese, believes in helping her people in China and is currently working at Wynn International as a marketing executive. Bob Arum recently stated, "She is really something, I want everyone to meet her."
——FOOD FOR THOUGHT——
In today's world a contract between two people isn't any different then it was since it was in the beginning of time. Of course we all know, especially in show business, that a contract is only as good as the people who sign it. When you sign that contract you put your name on the line, making a vow to perform in some manner, perhaps to deliver goods or services or pay for them. As any individual, conscientiously follows through on his obligation, he establishes good credit and good will. People trust in that person and want to continue doing business with them. In the same way God put his pledges in writing. He was willing to risk his reputation, which he highly values, by having his promises recorded in the Bible. God has already fulfilled many of them and the details of how he did so have been similarly recorded. God certainly would not mind if you check it all out for yourself. One thing about God is, he never changes. If your examination of his 'credit history' indicates of pattern of promises made and promises kept, you can be sure he will remain reliable. Then you can focus on his promises to you. Many of his pledges that God made to individuals long ago have implications for you today, but some were limited to a specific person, time, and place. It is important not only to know what God's promises to you are, but also to understand them well. Once you do, you will find that they are completely true. Don't forget to sign his name under each one. The point I am making here is that God is always willing to do business with anyone willing to deal with him. Check out Matthew 5:3–11, Proverbs 3:5–6, Jeremiah 17:7–8, Deuteronomy 3:1–8, and Psalms 128:1–4
SHOW BIZ BITS
Like some many aspiring women and men from abroad, Jerusalem Ghebreab had a dream of making a better life for herself. She left her homeland of Ethiopia to travel to New York and work as a hair stylist, but New York was very expensive and she soon set her eyes on Las Vegas. Jerusalem works out of Artistic Hair Salon on Convention Center Drive and is living her dream. The young lady has been in the company of Densel Washington and Hugh Grant. She says anyone can succeed through persistence and visualizing their dream.
King Errison, world-renowned percussionist with Neil Diamond has a new CD in the stores titled 'Nice.' The CD which is on Aklins Records, has a collection of Errison's songs which are R&B and Caribbean influenced. 'Laugh at the Roses' and 'Healer of My Spirit' are keepers. Incidentally Errison and John Astor, an entrepreneur in Vegas have recently teamed up to bring headliners to the Four Queens Hotel and Casino in downtown Las Vegas. They are currently talking with Pete Barbutti and other headliners.
Zumanity's, the colorful show at New York, New York is full of surprises, whips, leather, and sex toys are some of the props used in their show. They also have an erotic boutique for the daring. J.D. Nicholas of the Commodores, now a resident of Las Vegas recently played at the Silverton. J.D. said it was a bit different playing off the strip, but all in a packed house had a good time.
The Price is Right with Bob Barker has given away over 40 billion dollars in its thirty-four year period. Currently their live stage show has toured around the country in the Harrah's hotel chain and now has settled at Bally's Hotel in the Jubilee theatre. There is always excitement with game shows and this particular show features games such as Plinko, Cliff Hangers, The Big Wheel, Hole-in-one and of course The Showcase. However there is a different touch to this show; one it is in Las Vegas, two you pay to see the show and have the opportunity to be a contestant to win prizes and three it features television personality Todd Newton, also known as the host of E-News Live, Coming Attractions, and Whammy. Don't forget to come early because there are long lines. Showtimes are 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and 8:00 p.m. on Friday. Sunday and Mondays are dark.
STALLONE RECEIVES LIFETIME CINEMATIC AWARD
Sylvester Stallone, who at one time was considered the underdog in Hollywood, proved that persistence and determination along with a little luck can make anyone successful. In 1976, the year of the bicentennial, Stallone was an unknown actor who wrote the screenplay and stared in a low-budget film about a South Philadelphia pug who over came all odds to fight for the heavy-weight championship of the world. It was a movie that everyone related to as an American and showed that the underdog could win. The name of the movie, of course was Rocky, which received three Academy Awards, including Best Picture and was nominated for seven others. Stallone became the talk of Hollywood. Thirty years later, still working out in every capacity you could imagine, the character Rocky Balboa is still going strong and his Rocky movies are one of the most successful movies in history. Stallone who was at the 81st Boxing Writers Association of America Awards Dinner held at Mandalay Bay said he was honored to receive the lifetime Cinematic award. "You know I am amazed by all of this. At one time I thought people would get over their fascination with the character and move on. Didn't happen. After thirty years, Rocky has taken a hold to a degree that I could never have imagined." Rocky 6 which was filmed at Mandalay Bay should be finished by September of this year
EDDIE MEKKA STARS IN HAIRSPRAY
Eddie Mekka, the loveable character known as 'The Big Ragu' on Lavern and Shirley is staring in Hairspray at the Luxor. Mekka, a song and dance man who has worked Broadway and road shows throughout the country has a number of new movie projects. His first love however is the theatre, doing what he loves best, singing. Since Mekka lives in Las Vegas with his family, it is a perfect marriage, especially playing opposite Harvey Feinstein. "The best part of playing on stage is getting that immediate gratification of the audience," states Mekka. To be able to live in the entertainment capital of the world and headline here is the ultimate.
KID ROCK AT THE RED ROCK
Kid Rock was one of the celebrities that attended the Cherry Nightclub at the Red Rock Resort. Just when folks thought he was going to let all hang out, he fooled everyone and had a very cool night. While at the nightclub, Kid took a stroll with a lady friend by pool side and relaxed in one of the cabana's that rent for $500 per night. The Red Rock Resort is the newest casino in Las Vegas and it overlooks the entire skyline of the city as it is located 215 and Charleston Blvd.
HONOREES AT THE BWAA AWARDS DINNER
The Boxing Writers Association Awards Dinner which marked the first time in eight decades, their event took away from the northeast. It was so successful that they returned to the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. This year's event was memorable as many people were honored. 2005 Fighter of the Year went to Ricky Hatton. The Harry Marson Award went to Corrales vs. Castillo 1 for Fight of the Year. The Net Fleischel Award went to Tim Smith for Excellence in Boxing Journalism. Dan Birmingham received the Futch-Condon Award for Trainer of the Year, and Al Hayman received the Al Buck Award for Manager of the Year. Jay Larkin and Rich Marotta received the Sam Taub Award for Excellent in Broadcast Journalism. Kessim Ouma received the Putnam Award for Perseverance and Teddy Blackburn received the James A. Walker Award for Long and Meritorious Service. Harold Letterman and Alex Ramos received the Marvin Kohn 'Good Guy Award.' The James Farley Award for Honesty and Integrity in Boxing went to Angelo Dundee, Howie Albert, Doctor Flip Homanski, and Dr. Margaret Goodman.
SHOW BIZ
The Fremont Street Experience, perhaps the largest light show of its kind has bought Jeff Victor as President and General Manager. Victor, the former President and Chief Operating Officer for On Stage Entertainment, is a 22 year veteran handling theme parks and casino operations in New Orleans, Biloxi, Atlantic City, and Reno and Star Trek, The Experience. In addition to Victor bringing recognition to the venue, it will blend in nicely with the East Fremont Entertainment Project, which will be much like the Gaslight District in San Diego……The Silverton Casino in addition to having groups like The Commodores and Eddie Money present a variety of entertainment. Credance Clear Water will appear on May 19th and Three Dog Night will appear May 26–27, Kool and the Gang will appear June 30th and July 1st; and on June 3, Herman's Hermits featuring Peter Noone will appear. The Silverton, unlike other casinos features more of a lodge-theme property. It also has 165,000 sq. feet of Bass and Pro Shops Outdoor World, and a mermaid restaurant and lounge featuring a 117,000 gallon salt water aquarium with over 4000 tropical fish. Those are just some of the highlights……Little M.C. Carter, the son of Michael Carter, who is nine years old, made the first point for the minor AA Braves last week with his team beating the Astros 18–4. Little M.C. said he loves hitting the ball, but his favorite sport is basketball. The team which plays in Rainbow Park, attracts a lot of locals. Although young MC is destined to become a pro in baseball or basketball, he has an eye for acting. Recently he hammed it up with TV star Ice-T from Law and Order. That's the way to go, young man……Tom Cruise who recently appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show, isn't winning too many fans lately. It appears that Cruise likes to be a kid and speed recklessly through Manhattan on a motorcycle. Is this a publicity stunt just because he has a movie coming out?
Until then, keep your visions positive and keep positive people around you, and above all know that God is there for you. 
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