Tue, Sep 9, 2008 (2 a.m.)

How come Vegas Vic is doing TV ads for the International House of Pancakes? — Judy Treichel

I usually blame my agent or the high price of smokes and saddle soap when I end up in an advertisement. But considering the company I was in, Vegas Vic’s turn as pancake peddler was an honor.

To mark the restaurant chain’s 50th anniversary, IHOP created three ads that ran over the summer. Each featured an American icon: Mount Rushmore, the Statue of Liberty and your favorite neon sign.

Vegas Vic “is certainly one of those icons that people recognize,” said Jennifer Pendergrass, communications manager for IHOP.

That kind of talk makes all the red neon rush to Vegas Vic’s cheeks.

(I also think I need to renegotiate with that agent.)

As part of the marketing campaign, IHOP temporarily offered state-themed pancakes: California Strawberry, Maine Blueberry and Kansas Carrot Cake, among others. On that count, Nevada came up empty. I guess no one wanted sage-flavored flapjacks.

Questions for Vegas Vic should be sent to page8@lasvegassun.com.