Columnist Elizabeth Foyt: After 56 years, DiFiore ready for some R&R

Elizabeth Foyt

Wednesday, June 19, 2002 | 9:09 a.m.

Elizabeth Foyt's social column appears Wednesdays. Reach her at elizabethfoyt@prodigy.net.

Showered with best wishes and honored by Mayor Oscar Goodman with a special day in recognition of his many professional and community endeavors, Dr. John A. DiFiore recently celebrated his retirement from 56 years of medical practice.

A well-recognized physician in Las Vegas since the early 1960s, DiFiore has often been called doctor to the stars, for among his many patients were Strip entertainers and show business luminaries. He frequently rubbed shoulders with his patient Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack buddies and was gifted with a splendid Cadillac by Elvis.

Hostess for the cocktail reception held at the Spanish Oaks Clubhouse was DiFiore's wife, Hilda, who discussed her husband's most recent five years of service at the University Medical Center Quick Care Center in Spring Valley, a departure from his many years of private practice in internal medicine.

Well-wishers at the early summer party included Dr. Joe Thornton and his wife Dr. Geraldine Joiner, Leezie and Kadell Kremer, Dr. C.J. and Ruth Abdo, Joe Blasco, Mr. and Mrs. Sal Lobello, Dr. Charles Ruggeroli, Allen and Barbara Anes, Dr. Monte and Jeanne Greenawalt and the honoree's extended family.

The DiFiores, with homes in Las Vegas and on the Mexico coast, will divide their time between residences.

Rainbow of gold

This weekend will find a generous outpouring of entertainment talent, as Golden Rainbow presents the 16th annual "Ribbon of Life Stage Spectacular" at Mandalay Bay's Storm Theatre at 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

A benefit occasion to fund Golden Rainbow's efforts to improve the quality of life for persons living with HIV or AIDS in Southern Nevada, the 2002 production is directed by Jack Townzen.

A cast of some 300 performers from shows including "Bottoms Up," "Jubilee," "Siegfried & Roy" and other Strip productions will be joined by members of Nevada Ballet Theatre, "Forever Plaid," "Honky Tonk Angels" and PS Productions to name just a few.

Notable among the headliners taking part will be Sheena Easton, Bob Anderson and Clint Holmes. Tickets start at $25 and are available by calling 384-2899.

Healthy habitat

On Thursday a special benefit for Habitat for Humanity will be hosted by Remington Homes, a Las Vegas-based luxury home builder. This first annual Dream Home reception will be held inside the gated community of Queensridge North in Summerlin, at an exquisite 8,000-square-foot home.

Built by Remington Homes, the custom property is valued at $3 million and is designed Tuscan-style.

This charitable occasion will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with sponsorship by United Title of Nevada, Clayton Mortage and Homes and Living magazine.

Tickets are $40 per person and include appetizers, entertainment and a rich selection of silent auction treasures. For further details call 638-6477 or Michelle Danks at Mass Media (433-4331).

Since 1991 Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas has been partnering with low-income families in Clark County, giving them the opportunity of home ownership.

Thirty-two homes have been completed, providing decent housing for more than 130 residents. Proceeds from Thursday's Dream Home event will help fund the construction of six more homes in 2002.

Businesses, individuals, youth and civic groups assist in the work of this endeavor by providing both labor and funds for home construction.