Columnist Elizabeth Foyt: Stars turn out for Venetian museum openings

Elizabeth Foyt

Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2001 | 8:32 a.m.

International journalists from every mode of media enjoyed Venetian's hospitality, with informative press conferences and behind-the-scenes tours, each followed by dinners at Postrio and Venus Lounge-Tiki Bar, both in the Grand Canal Shoppes.

Welcoming the press and invited guests to "The Art of the Motorcycle" at Guggenheim Las Vegas and "Masterpieces and Master Collections -- Impressionists" at Guggenheim Hermitage were Sheldon and Dr. Miriam Adelson, owners of Venetian. With them were Tom Krens of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, Mikhail Shwydkoi, minister of culture for the Russian Federation, and curator Utlan Guilfoyle, joined by Pamela Brennan of Delta Airlines, Marco von Maltzan of BMW Motorcycle and Rob Goldstein, president of Venetian.

Guests enjoying a tour of the sublime museum with the historic motorcycle exhibit and reception included George Chanos with daughter Alexandria, Carolyn and Ken Sparks, Bill and Marilyn Flangas, University Regent Mark Alden with Tammy Traberg, Arnie and Lynn Rosenberg, and Zigi and Tsipi Ben-Hain, guests of the Adelsons.

The Marinsky Theater Kirov Ballet and Chamber Choir Lege Artis were well received as they performed to a full house in the showroom, followed by opening tours of the Guggenheim Hermitage collection and a formal dinner in the grand ballroom. Present were dignitaries including former Gov. Robert List with wife Polly, Assemblyman Harry and Helen Mortenson and Assemblywoman Merle Berman, in addition to celebrities Lauren Hutton, Jeremy Irons and Dennis Hopper.

Sen. John Ensign, attending with his Southern Nevada aide Kathy Page, was seen with supporters Dr. Monte and Jeanne Greenawalt. Others in attendance were Bill and Lynn Weidner, Joyce Mack, Kathy and Dick Bonar, Andrea Thomas with Robin Prendergast and Dina Remeta, and Nancy and Kell Houssels with their family, as well as attorneys Gloria Sturman, Von Heinz and Nancy Allf. Also enjoying the gala were interior designers Rosie Feinberg and Sue Firestone, as well as Ennis Jordan with Shenandoah Merrick, Candy and Steve Schneider, and Mary and George Young. Announced at dinner was the Adelsons' educational partnership program that will provide ongoing museum tours for area children.

Awards dinner

Ideal weather, professional interest and comradery was evident during the first annual American Gaming Association awards dinner, honoring Sen. Harry Reid, singer Paul Anka and industry giants Boyd Gaming and Park Place Entertainment.

AGA delegates and business leaders met on the Pavilion patio at the Rio, among them Ed and Paul Zub, Jerry Shore, Robert Shay, Howard Jochsberger, Bob and Suzanne Moon, Joe Brown, Southwest Gas President Michael Maffie and his wife, Tish, and AGA President-CEO Frank Fahrenkopf Jr., who served as master of ceremonies.

Sandy Peltyn, vice president of development for Martin and Peltyn, planned the gala with committee members Don Snyder, and Rino Armeni with help from Michael Severino of Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada. The lavish pre-dinner reception featured elegant samplings, each matched by appropriate wines and spirits from Four Seasons, Venetian, Flamingo Las Vegas, Spago, China Grill and Napa and Fiore at the Rio.

Enjoying the social occasion was Robert Maheu, seen with Steve Sutherland of Konami Gaming and Steve and Elaine Wynn, as well as longtime friends Jeff Silver, Tom Foley, former Gov. Bob Miller and Larry Ruvo. Dinner was served compliments of Paris Las Vegas, Red Square, Mirage and the Rio, with entertainment from Michael Flatley's "Lord of the Dance" and Rio's "Masquerade in the Sky" performers.

All proceeds benefitted the National Center for Responsible Gaming, the nation's first organization devoted to the support of scientific research on pathological and youth gambling. Last year NCRG embarked upon a historic collaboration with Harvard Medical School when it awarded $2.6 million to the school's Division on Addictions to establish the Institute for Research on Pathological Gambling and Related Disorders.

Rawson recognized

Once again Family to Family Connection will present a tasteful luncheon, this time recognizing Sen. Ray D. Rawson and family. Family to Family Connection provides free classes, workshops and support systems as well as play groups, home visits and 24-hour accessibility to families in the Las Vegas area.

Its services and information are available to new parents of all ages and economic status.

Rawson is responsible for the most recent grant from the state, enabling the programs to continue for the next two years. Rawson, his wife and their six children will be honored during the luncheon at Charlie Palmer Steak on Oct. 19. Previously Mayor Oscar Goodman and wife Carolyn were recognized.

Proceeds from the luncheon and silent and live auctions will benefit the nonprofit organization. Details and reservations are available by calling 870-9583.

Luncheon planned

Also slated for next week is the Women's Auxiliary of the Salvation Army's annual luncheon and fashion show at the Monte Carlo. All proceeds will go toward furnishing the Lied Dining Room and Chapel at 35 West Owens.

The Tuesday luncheon, featuring fashions by Dillard's, begins with a social hour at 11 a.m. Carol Williams, at 870-4430 ext. 10, is handling all reservations for this worthy event.

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