Centennial plans continue to grow

Sito Negron

Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2004 | 9:34 a.m.

The Las Vegas Centennial committee heard plans Monday from people who want a piece of the 100-year celebration.

The Centennial, which is to mark the May 1905 auction of land that laid the groundwork for modern Las Vegas, has been in the works for more than a year.

Recently, that work has accelerated as the valley approaches the first major international milestone of the event, a New Year's Eve party that promises a top-notch fireworks show.

"Can I say this is the greatest fireworks show in the history of the world?" Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman asked staff members, who replied that yes, he could say whatever he wants about the show.

It's meant to be a step above the usual, a point emphasized by the fact that Metro Police will allow 10 flatbed trucks inside the police cordons to run sound and lighting.

Harrah's performer Clint Holmes will write a soundtrack for the event.

Stacy Allsbrook, the Centennial coordinator, said close to 475 volunteers have signed up to help organize local events -- which range from a murals program for schools to the return of Helldorado in the spring -- and there already are 200 events on the calendar.

The committee also heard from the producers of "American Idol," who wanted to create a two-hour variety show of all things Vegas.

Tom Gutteridge, CEO of Fremantle Media, outlined a "star-studded" event of Las Vegas entertainers, big-name hosts and segments on Las Vegas history.

The proposal is one of many media possibilities. The Centennial already has contracted with Clear Channel Entertainment to produce a July 4 event and signed a contract with Insignia Films for a documentary about Las Vegas to air on PBS.

Committee members wondered if the word "exclusive" would continue to apply, and if it even could enter into an agreement with the would-be variety show producers.

The committee voted to research the issue of exclusivity, and to give the producers another shot at making the pitch in a month with a little more specificity regarding the proposed show's content.

The same issue, exclusivity, came into play during a pitch by Station Casinos to give it the exclusive right to use the Centennial logo in its marketing of the "Boarding Pass," a card used by regular customers.

The committee decided to allow Station to use the logo, but not to give it exclusivity. Several committee members were concerned giving Station exclusivity might discourage other resort properties from fully participating in Centennial-related promotions.