Columnist Elizabeth Foyt: Wedding at Caesars a highlight of summer society events

Elizabeth Foyt

Wednesday, July 16, 2003 | 8:20 a.m.

Elegant, joyous and done in impeccable taste, the soft pink-, ivory- and gold-themed wedding of Mary Weinstein and Michael Fredericks was a high point among summer society events.

Mary, the daughter of Tower of Jewels owners Jack and Nancy Weinstein, was wed to Michael Fredericks, son of Susan Sullivan and Buzz Fredericks, in nuptials officiated over by Rabbi Mel Hecht.

Gathering in the Caesars Palace tower for the wedding in the Emperor's Ballroom were Mac and Francis MacDonald, Phyllis McGuire, Sandra and Tito Tiberti, Jewel Brooks with Jimmy Costello, the Rev. Richard Rinn, Lovee and Bob Arum, Tara Kirschenmann and Guy Robert Deiro and Jeri Packe.

Also enjoying the spirited occasion were Mickie Hecht, R.J. Peltyn with Karlisa Charlie, Judith Harriman, Claudine Williams, Kitty Rodman, Zoey Brown, Terri Monsour and Jim Marsh with state Sen. Sandra Tiffany.

Dinner tables adorned with tall rose centerpieces set upon shimmering organdy cloths were further embellished by pink napkins held by rose napkin rings, and golden heart-shaped chocolate table favors awaited guests at the reception coordinated by family friend Sandy Peltyn with husband Roger.

Dancing to Midnight Affair between the courses of delicious dinner offered many a moment on the dance floor to congratulate the newlyweds, who will reside in Southern Highlands. Leading the champagne toasts were the couple's fathers, Jack Weinstein and Buzz Fredericks, joined by maid of honor Polly Weinstein and best man Mark Montoya.

Legend turns 45

Stardust memories were generously shared as Boyd Gaming Corp. hosted 45th anniversary festivities for the beloved Stardust hotel. Entering through the convention pavilion, guests enjoyed a fine array of 1950s vintage vehicles lent from the antique car collection owned by Sunbelt Communications Co. owner Jim Rogers.

White-gloved waiters served flutes of Dom Perignon and beckoned guests on to the chefs and serving stations in the spacious ballroom. Recognized for their roles in making the Stardust a success over the years were a bevy of past headliners, among them Siegfried and Roy, Don Rickles, Phyllis Diller, Tim Conway, Robert Goulet, and current Stardust headliner Wayne Newton.

Most poignant were the comments drawn from guests as they toured the extensive photographic displays covering each of five decades' of entertainers, special events and celebrity guests.

Currently on public display in the hotel's main lobby, the exhibits also include menus and candid photos from the famed Aku-Aku restaurant along with highlights from past events at the Stardust's Horseman's Park, raceway, drive-in theater and country club, all amenities enjoyed by guests over the years.

Present was Tuco Quevedo, with sons Fernando and Martin, of Los Huincas Gaucho, among the first to bring the celebrated performances by Argentine gauchos to Strip showrooms.

Bill Boyd, chairman-chief executive of Boyd Gaming, spoke warmly and welcomed to the stage Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt, followed by former "Lido de Paris" showgirl Sharon Cusamano, "Enter the Night" principal Aki (no last name used) and actress Valerie Perrine, a featured Stardust dancer in the early years.

Guests enjoying the party and all the fond recollections included Cathy Bittinger with Norm Johnson, state Controller Kathy Augustine, David Atwell, Boyd Gaming President Don Snyder, Stardust Executive Vice President/General Manager John Miner, Las Vegas Councilwoman Janet Moncrief, Lynn Butcher, Ari Levin and Phil Diguardi, a Stardust gaming employee who has been with the property since opening day in 1958.

Lunch with an artist

D.A.N.I. (Desert Arts of Nevada Inc.), a community organization in support of the fine arts, will offer Lunch With A Louvre Artist on July 31. Christie Milo, a French museum masterpiece artist, is recognized for her 24 years as a teacher of master painting at the Louvre along with her original art displayed at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and galleries around the globe.

The luncheon program at Red Rock Country Club will begin at 11:30 a.m., with advance reservations to be arranged by calling 391-5275.

Camp needs help

Camp Sol, the first camp ever offered to children with arthritis in Southern Nevada, will operate as a four-day, three-night sleepover camp for children ages 8 to 17. Camp Sol, operating Aug. 11 to Aug. 14, will provide well-planned, safe activities of fun and challenging nature.

Included will be swimming, archery, canoeing, rock climbing and campfire circles. The staff will consist of a unique blend of trained volunteers and professionals who have been selected because of their interest and experience in working with children who have arthritis and related diseases.

To ensure the camp's success, the Arthritis Foundation of Southern Nevada is asking for community support. Volunteers, craft supplies of all types, first aid supplies and toiletries are much-needed contributions. For information on how to enroll a young camper or serve as a volunteer/contributor, please call 367-1626.