Aspen Meadows Resort Launches New Internet Technology For Groups, Meetings and Business Travelers

ASPEN, Colo. (December 11, 2012) — To keep ahead of the increasing demand of technology in the meeting industry, the Aspen Meadows Resort updated their internet connection speed this week from a T3 45MB to a 100MB Ethernet connection. All hotel rooms and meeting facilities at the Aspen Meadows Resort have access to the improved high speed internet bandwidth.

“As a nationally recognized meetings and conventions destination, we are in constant pursuit of the most cutting edge technology to meet all of our guests’ needs,” said Doug Crawford, Director of Sales at Aspen Meadows Resort. “We are leaders in the hospitality technology industry.”

“The additional internet bandwidth not only helps our guests have seamless, reliable internet speeds, it also helps us operationally as a resort property,” said Crawford. “This then in turn provides a positive experience for all guests and staff.”

Aspen Meadows Resort’s conference facilities are certified by the International Association of Conference Centers and the Doerr-Hosier Center is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. For exclusive Aspen Meadows Resort meeting package offerings, visit http://www.aspenmeadows.com/meetings/packages.asp or call 970-925-4240.

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About Aspen Meadows Resort: Aspen Meadows Resort, home of the Aspen Institute, has been a mainstay in Aspen for more than 50 years.  Located on 40 scenic acres along the Roaring Fork River in the historic West End, Aspen Meadows Resort’s 98 guest suites are rich in amenities and decorated in clean and crisp Bauhaus style.  Nearly every mountain activity imaginable is found at its doorstep or can be easily arranged through guest services at the resort.  Guests at Aspen Meadows are treated to numerous amenities including complimentary high-speed wireless Internet, 24-hour shuttle service and access to the resort’s state-of-the-art health club.  A world-class meetings and conference facility, Aspen Meadows Resort boasts 22,000 square feet of International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) approved meeting space.  The 14 dedicated meeting rooms can accommodate events for groups ranging in size from 20 to 800 people.  Aspen Meadows Resort is also home to Plato’s, an intimate restaurant that offers cuisine to stimulate both the palate and the intellect. The rotating menu at Plato’s features a delectable array of internationally inspired fare created with locally and regionally sourced seasonal ingredients.

About Dolce Hotels and Resorts:  Dolce Hotels and Resorts, a privately held operator of 27 upscale hotels, resorts and conference hotels in North America and Europe founded in 1981, is majority-owned by Broadreach Capital Partners. The company, headquartered in Rockleigh, N.J., employs more than 4,000 worldwide. Additional information is available at www.dolce.com.

 

Dolce’s portfolio includes properties in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, California, Ontario, Texas, Nevada, Belgium, France, Spain and Germany.

 

As a leader in the meetings industry, Dolce hosts some 30,000 events and 4 million group clients globally every year.  The company’s founder pioneered the conference center concept and Complete Meeting Package, both now embraced as standards by the International Association of Conference Centers.

 

The company’s vision is to create inspiring environments that bring people together, and its mission is to delight its guests, challenge its associates, reward its owners and serve as a role model in its communities.

Ford Motor Company Awards $57,000 In College Scholarships To H.S. Students

 

The Top Three Students Receiving Scholarships were all Smiles at the Ceremony

 (l-r) Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services; second place winner of $2,500 Megan Thompson; first place winner of $5,000 Gabrielle Garcia; second place winner of $2,500 Mitchell January; Ronne Froman, RADM, USN, Ret., Chairman & CEO, REBOOT and John “Mac” McLaughlin, RADM, USN, Ret., President & CEO U.S.S. Midway Museum.

Ford Fund awarded $57,000 in scholarships to 50 high school students in San Diego who have parents in active service in the military. Winners of Operation Education scholarships were announced on Dec. 4 at a ceremony aboard the USS Midway.

With support from the contest administrator, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers Education Foundation, student winners have been selected based on essays that answer this question: What have you learned from having a family member in the service, and how has this impacted your goals and plans for the future?

A $5,000 Blue Oval Scholarship will be awarded to the first-place winner. Second- and third-place winners will receive a scholarship of $2,500 each, and the remaining 47 winners will receive a scholarship of $1,000 each. The scholarship will be paid directly to the college or university in which the winner is enrolled.

About Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services

Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services works with community partners to advance driving safety, education and community life. The Ford Motor Company Fund has operated for more than 60 years with ongoing funding from Ford Motor Company. The award-winning Ford Driving Skills for Life program teaches new drivers through a variety of hands-on and interactive methods. Innovation in education is encouraged through national programs that enhance high school learning and provide college scholarships and university grants. Through the Ford Volunteer Corps, more than 25,000 Ford employees and retirees each year work on projects that better their communities in more than 20 countries. For more information, visit http://community.ford.com.

NAACP DELIVERS HOTEL & LODGING INDUSTRY REPORT CARD

                        

                           Finds Room for Improvement in Diversity and Inclusion Practices

On November 30th, the NAACP released the findings from its Opportunities & Diversity Report Card: Hotel & Lodging Industry. Marriott International received an overall B grade — the highest rating out of all the hotels — with the remaining hotels scoring either a C+ or C. Details in the report suggests that corporate leaders in the hotel and resort industry still have far to go to ensure their workforce leadership and suppliers adequately reflect the demographics of the United States. Read the report at http://www.naacp.org/blog/entry/opportunity-and-diversity-report-card.

“The lodging industry has failed to keep pace with our diverse nation,” stated NAACP president and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous. “As one of the fastest growing industries in the country, the lodging industry has opportunities for entry level positions, senior management positions, ownership and supplier diversity – a full spectrum of economic opportunity.”

The report card reveals that procurement with minority businesses is at unacceptably low numbers throughout the hotel and lodging industry. Of the corporations graded in this report, who provided significant property data, only 8% of total dollars spent for goods and services went to companies owned by people of color and a dismal 1% went to African-American owned companies. The report also notes that the corporate leaders in the hotel and lodging industry do not collect diversity data for their franchised properties meaning that most leading hotel corporations do not have data on the majority of their properties.

“With economic inequality at its highest levels in recent decades, it is important that the hotel and lodging industry provide access to jobs with livable wages, long-term career possibilities and contract opportunities for minority owned businesses particularly in African-American and other economically disenfranchised communities,” stated Dedrick Muhammad, NAACP senior director of Economic Programs.

The NAACP’s Report Card graded the five largest hotels (Marriott, Wyndam, Hyatt, Starwood and Hilton) against the standard rate of industry inclusion. The letter grades are based on three main criteria: 1) workforce and job advancement, 2) contracting and procurement, and 3) ownership (if and where applicable).

“The report card should serve as both an eye opener and a tool to encourage the graded corporations to strengthen job creation and wealth building opportunities for disenfranchised minorities,” stated Leonard James, National NAACP Board member and chair of the Economic Development Committee. “The NAACP looks forward to collaborating with these corporate leaders and diversity advocates over the next several years to advance industry inclusion, at all levels.”

In the Hotel and Lodging industry the NAACP is asking for the leading hotel and lodging corporations to require hotel franchisees to report EE01 data, which would capture diversity in the workforce in all hotels. Bridging racial economic inequality is fundamental to strengthening America’s economy for the future and the NAACP looks forward to working with corporate, government, labor, and diversity leaders in this effort.

This report card marks the re-launch of the NAACP’s economic report cards on corporate diversity and inclusion. The focus of the Opportunity and Diversity Report Card is to examine and grade the largest companies on their representation of African-Americans and people of color as a whole with respect to workforce, supplier diversity and ownership. In addition to grading corporations on their diversity, the report cards highlight opportunities in the industry and the specific programs designed to strengthen people of color’s full participation in the industry.

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors. 

Free Training Offered By PATA Chapter

(Thursday, December 6, 2012 – Tumon, Guam) The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) will host the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Micronesia Chapter Quarterly Membership Meeting next week. Several dozen guests and Chapter Delegates representing the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Republic of Palau are expected to arrive in Guam to attend. The general membership meeting, PATA Chapter Elections for 2013-2014 and various PATA committee meetings will take place December 11-12, 2012 at the Outrigger Guam Resort.

CHRIS FLYNN

The public is urged to register and attend “PATAmPower,” a free training seminar that will be presented by Chris Flynn, PATA Regional Director, Pacific, on Wednesday, December 12, 2012, 2:00PM at the Outrigger Resort Guam. PATAmPower is an interactive tool that aggregates travel and tourism information relevant to the Asia Pacific region and presents it to users in a “one-stop-Shop,” in a dynamic format and on demand. The free training seminar has been made possible by Guam Small Business Development Center in partnership with Guam Visitors Bureau and PATA Micronesia.

Chris Flynn has 30 years of experience in international and domestic tourism having held senior appointments within the airline, deluxe hotel, and high profile entertainment industries. Mr. Flynn has vast operational experience operating in regions such as UK, Europe, United States, Asia and the Pacific.

“We are excited to be welcoming Regional Director Flynn and representatives of PATA International to Guam,” said GVB General Manager Joann Camacho. “PATA remains an important partner in our efforts to market Guam and the Micronesian region. Our islands collectively show the uniqueness of our people and PATA helps us to show that to the rest of the world.”

Founded in Honolulu in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is an international, non-profit membership organization whose mission is to contribute to the growth, value and quality of travel and tourism to and within the Pacific-Asia area on behalf of its members. Today, PATA is a global organization, covering over one third of the globe and represented through dozens of regional and satellite chapters. The Micronesia chapter of PATA was established in 1986 as a result of increasing tourism interests in the region. Today, PATA Micronesia has over 100 members from both the public and private sectors.

For more information about the upcoming PATA Micronesia Chapter Membership meeting or to pre-register for the free PATAmPower seminar, please contact Elaine Pangelinan at (671) 648-1505 or via email at elaine.pangelinan@visitguam.org. Seating is limited so act now.

Royal Caribbean Expands Partnership

More Vacationers Worldwide Can Enjoy the DreamWorks Experience on Royal Caribbean

MIAMI, Dec. 04, 2012 – Vacationers of all ages will have more choices to join in the high-seas hijinks of Pandas, Ogres, Lions, Dragons and other beloved characters with a knack for adventure and comedy. Royal Caribbean International and DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (NASDAQ: DWA)  today announced the extension of their groundbreaking alliance, as well as the expansion of The DreamWorks Experience to a sixth-ship, Mariner of the Seas, when she arrives in the Far East in May 2013. The DreamWorks Experience was first launched aboard Allure of the Seas in November 2010, with beloved character Princess Fiona of the “Shrek” franchise inaugurating the ship as godmother, and continues to impress guests and receive accolades. The award-winning entertainment has since been expanded aboard Oasis of the Seas, sailing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Freedom of the Seas from Port Canaveral on Florida’s Space Coast; Liberty of the Seas, which splits her year between Port Everglades and Barcelona, Spain; and recently, Voyager of the Seas in the Far East and Australia and New Zealand.
            “Royal Caribbean is the only cruise line to offer the DreamWorks Experience to vacationers throughout the world and we are delighted to expand our partnership with DreamWorks,” said Lisa Bauer, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “The DreamWorks Experience really resonates with our guests since we launched it aboard Allure of the Seas. We worked with DreamWorks Animation to create an incomparable entertainment experience for our guests, no matter what their age, and their feedback has been nothing short of stellar.”
            The DreamWorks Experience premiered aboard Allure of the Seas when the ship launched in late 2010 and uniquely features Let You Entertain Me: The Madagascar Aqua Show in the ship’s AquaTheater and How to Train Your Dragon Ice Show in Studio B ice rink. The ship also hosted South Florida’s Puss in Boots premier in 2011, attended by stars Selma Hayek and Antonio Banderas.
            “Royal Caribbean continues to be the perfect host for the DreamWorks Experience and this expansion agreement ensures that more and more fans will have the opportunity to interact with our characters and properties,” said Kerry Phelan, Head of Worldwide Licensing for DreamWorks Animation.
            Already, more vacationers around the world are reveling in the spectacular colorful parades and surprise character appearances, as part of the DreamWorks Experience, with the debut of Voyager of the Seas in the Far East and Australia and New Zealand. Having just completed her first season sailing from China, Voyager of the Seas arrived in Sydney this past November to combine the DreamWorks Experience with unforgettable South Pacific cruises and cruisetours.
            Year-round, vacationers can join in the DreamWorks Experience aboard Freedom of the Seas, sailing weekly from Port Canaveral along Florida’s Space Coast, and Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. Furthermore, Liberty of the Seas exclusively offers the DreamWorks Experience in the Mediterranean Sea in the summer season and is a fourth Caribbean option in the winter season.
            Every Royal Caribbean ship with the DreamWorks Experience features parades, themed activities and events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, and the Penguins from “Madagascar.” Each ship also is equipped with a 3-D movie theater playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films, such as the summer blockbuster “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in 3-D.”
            Royal Caribbean’s younger guests in the complimentary award-winning Adventure Ocean children’s program can relish in an exhilarating line-up of activities, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films. Guests of all ages can meet their favorite DreamWorks characters over the DreamWorks Character breakfast in the main dining room and take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities throughout the day. Additionally, guests can enjoy DreamWorks Animation programming on a dedicated RCTV channel in every stateroom.
About DreamWorks Animation
            DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" by FORTUNE® Magazine for four consecutive years. In 2012, DreamWorks Animation ranks #14 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation's feature films are now being produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 24 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. The Company's theatrical releases for the current year are Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted on June 8, 2012 and Rise of the Guardians on November 21, 2012.
About Royal Caribbean International
            Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand.
            Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming. The cruise line has a 40-year history of giving guests the Royal Advantage – the most innovative cruise ships, exciting itineraries to popular destinations, and world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for nine consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. Follow Royal Caribbean on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RoyalCaribbean or on Twitter, @RoyalCaribbean. Travel professionals should visit www.cruisingpower.com or call (800) 327-2056. Media can find information at www.royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com.
            Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL) is a global cruise vacation company that owns Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Club Cruises and CDF Croisières de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 percent joint venture.  Together, these six brands operate a combined total of 41 ships with three under construction.

Death Valley Tours From Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV (November 25, 2012) – Las Vegas adventure and eco touring company 
TourGuy.com, LLC is now offering a special one day Death Valley Tours From Las 
Vegas featuring complimentary hotel pick up and return. The tour features 
several famous Death Valley locations including the infamous Ghost Town of 
Rhyolite and panoramic vista known as Hell’s Gate. All guests are picked up at 
their respective hotels starting at 7:00 am with the tour ending at 5:30 that 
evening. Guests tour Death Valley in a luxury 4x4 or custom VIP touring class 
mini coach. The tour includes a full lunch and complimentary snacks. 

James Hoke, Founder and President of TourGuy.com, LLC says, “This is the perfect 
time of year to visit Death Valley. The weather is mild making it a great day 
visiting all of the sights and locations Death Valley has to offer. All of our 
tour guides are extremely knowledgeable about the history and topography of 
Death Valley.”

The one-day sightseeing tour features stops at:
• Historical Rhyolite, one of the most photographed Ghost Towns in the American 
“Old West” and featured in several films and documentaries
• Furnace Creek Museum – the main visitor center of the park
• Artists Pallet, formed during one of Death Valley’s most explosive volcanic 
periods
• Zabriskie’s Point, an elevated overlook located at the edge of the Funeral 
Mountains
• Badwater, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere at 282 ft. below sea 
level
• Devil’s Golf Course, a large salt pan with a rough surface formed of large 
salt crystals 
• Hell’s Gate, a panoramic vista point along the eastern edge of central Death 
Valley

The tour runs Monday’s and Wednesday’s only or by reservation for parties of 4 
or more. The tour is being offered at a discounted price of only $179 per adult 
and $159 for children 12 and under. Prices are all inclusive with no extra fees.

Catherine Skoby recently experienced the Death Valley tour and had this to say, 
“We loved our tour to Death Valley. Dean was a wonderful guide. He was very 
informative and always willing to stop so we could take pictures. We had a 
wonderful time.”
For more information in the Death Valley tour visit: 

http://www.tourguy.com/las-vegas/death-valley-one-day-ground-tour-pid50.html

About TourGuy.com, LLC
TourGuy.com, LLC is an adventure and ecotourism company featuring all types of 
excursions including helicopter, airplane, jeep, bus, horseback, All-Terrain 
Vehicle (ATV), kayak and raft tours at discounted prices. Tours include Las 
Vegas, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Death Valley and more. 

What Goes On In Vegas...Stays in Vegas

The D Las Vegas Debuts in Downtown Las Vegas
The former Fitzgeralds Casino & Hotel has completed its dramatic transformation to become the D Las Vegas, revealing a sleek new style, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. The property’s complete interior and exterior renovation embraces the upbeat culture of downtown and invites guests to experience the modern amenities, first-class entertainment, fun culinary experiences and unique gaming that abound inside. Renovations at the D focus on modern styling, while maintaining elements from classic Vegas and introducing glimpses of Detroit. For more information, contact Kaley Briesmaster, Kirvin Doak Communications, kbriesmaster@kirvindoak.com.

MGM Grand Completes $160 Million Room and Suite Remodel
MGM Grand has announced the completion of its $160 million room and suite remodel in the hotel’s main tower, marking a major milestone in the resort’s "Grand Renovation." The remodel, which began in October 2011, includes 3,570 Grand King and Queen guest rooms and 642 suites of varying types, including the stunning Skyline Terrace and Skyline Marquee Suites. For more information, contact Stacy Hamilton, MGM Resorts International, shamilton@mgmresorts.com.

The ACT Las Vegas Now Open at The Shoppes at The Palazzo
The ACT Las Vegas, the newest concept by New York City theater and nightlife impresario Simon Hammerstein, is now open inside The Shoppes at The Palazzo, ushering in a dramatic new era of Las Vegas nightlife. The performance-based nightclub can entertain up to 1,000 revelers with nightly acts, including boundary-pushing audience participation, in a 9,600-square-foot, multilevel space inspired by the dark romance of bygone eras. For more information, contact Beth Bartolini, Variety Worldwide, beth@varietyww.com.

2012 NASCAR Champions Week Returns to Las Vegas
NASCAR will return to Las Vegas for the postseason Sprint Cup Series Champion's Week Nov. 26-30 -- a star-studded, entertainment-filled celebration for the series champion and NASCAR fans, culminating with the highly anticipated NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Awards. Earlier this year, NASCAR announced the annual Cup Series event -- and all of Champion's Week -- will return to Las Vegas for the next three years. This year's annual awards will take place Nov. 30 with SPEED, Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio providing live coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can interact with the drivers at various events, including the National Motorsports Press Association Myers Brothers Awards Luncheon, the NASCAR Victory Lap down the world famous Las Vegas Strip and NASCAR After The Lap, an anything-goes questions and answer session between fans and the top 12 Chase drivers. For more information, click here.

Aviation Nation Returns to Nellis Air Force Base
Aviation Nation, the annual Nellis Open House and largest free public event in Nevada, returns Nov. 10-11 to Nellis Air Force Base. Aviation Nation celebrates 71 years of airpower in Las Vegas and the Air Force's accomplishments in air, space and cyberspace. Several military air demonstration teams, including the USAF Thunderbirds, will perform with other military and civilian acts. The two-day event will depict the history of American aviation and will salute the recent accomplishments of America's military in operations around the globe through numerous military and civilian ground displays. For more information, please click here.

Ethel M Chocolates Announces Opening of 19th Annual Holiday Cactus Garden
The 19^h Annual Cactus Lighting event will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 13 from 5-8 p.m. at the three-acre Botanical Cactus Garden adjacent to the Ethel M Chocolate factory in Henderson.  The countdown to the lighting of more than half a million colorful lights will take place at approximately 6 p.m. The Ethel M Holiday Cactus Garden will open for the season on Nov. 14 through Jan. 1. The attraction is free and open to the public. The garden will be lit nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  In addition, visitors can peek in on the factory in full holiday swing, where Ethel M Chocolates are crafted. For more information, contact Michelle Schenk, SK+G, michelle.schenk@skgadv.com.

Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp Announces November Camp Lineup
Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp has announced the Nov. camp lineup allowing campers to "rock the blues" at a new, state-of-the-art facility just off the Strip. This session features 2012 GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Warren Haynes of the Allman Brothers and Gov’t Mule, Jack Bruce of British rock trio Cream and John Popper of Blues Traveler. Bruce’s participation coincides with the 45^th Anniversary of Cream’s Disraeli Gears, an album that many feel had a tremendous impact in the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll.  Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp will take place Nov. 7–11 at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. For more information, contact Hillary Smoot, PR Plus, Hillary@prpluslv.com.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House to Open at Harrah’s Las Vegas in 2013
Harrah’s Las Vegas has partnered with Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a restaurant known for exceptional signature sizzling steaks and upscale dining experiences around the world, to bring the first of its kind to the Las Vegas Strip.  Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Harrah’s is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2013.  With locations in Harrah’s New Orleans and Harrah’s Cherokee in North Carolina, the Harrah’s Las Vegas location will mark the extension of the Caesars Entertainment—Ruth’s Chris Steak House relationship.  The new restaurant will inhabit the space formerly occupied by The Range, which will close Nov. 11, 2012. For more information, contact Taylor shields, Caesars Entertainment, tshields@caesars.com.

Nevada Governor’s Conference on Tourism Scheduled for Dec. 4-5
Tourism professionals will gather to discuss industry advocacy, international visitation and collaboration at the Nevada Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Dec. 4-5 at John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks. Keynote speakers are Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, and Terry Jones, founder of Travelocity.com and current chairman of Kayak.com. To register, visit governorsconference.org. For more information, contact Angela Froelich, Nevada Commission on tourism, afroelich@travelnevada.com.

Third Annual Cirque Week 2012 Scheduled for Dec. 1-8
Back by popular demand, Cirque du Soleil presents the third annual Cirque Week, offering fans the experience of a lifetime with access to an eight-day series of exclusive events. Cirque Week offers fans the opportunity to get an all-access look into how these extraordinary shows come to life nightly. Cirque Week packages range from $150 for a two-show ticket package to $540 which includes tickets to all seven Cirque du Soleil productions in Las Vegas. To purchase tickets visit: www.cirquedusoleil.com/cirqueweek. For more information, contact Cathy Vo, Kirvin Doak Communications, cvo@kirvindoak.com.

Caesars Palace Launches Unique Culinary Experience: Food University
The inaugural Food University at Caesars Palace will take place Dec. 11-13. The event is designed to transform fun-loving foodies from spectators into competition-ready chefs. Unlike any other food festival or culinary event, Food University offers food lovers a chance to rub elbows with top chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, cheese experts, fine food purveyors and even farmers—who will serve as Food U "faculty"— as they learn during three exhilarating days of culinary curriculum presented at the iconic Caesars Palace Las Vegas. These "scholars" will not merely eat, drink and learn in the presence of lauded chefs, they will also enthusiastically don their chef whites and dedicate themselves to expanding their knowledge on the finer points of creating exceptional cuisine from celebrity chef "professors." For a complete schedule and "professor" listing, visit www.fooduniversitylasvegas.com. For more information, contact Marina Nicola, Vox Solid Communications, mnicola@wearevoxsolid.com. 

McCall’s Heartland Grill Now Open at Stratosphere
Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower recently opened McCall’s Heartland Grill, an original concept grill restaurant offering hearty Midwestern-style steaks, fresh coastal seafood and an array of creative comfort food served in a sleek yet cozy "cowboy chic" atmosphere, featuring intimate booths, stacked stone and natural woods. Nestled conveniently at the north end of Stratosphere’s casino floor, McCall’s Heartland Grill is open for lunch and dinner at 11 a.m. inside Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower. For more information, contact Kathy Topp, Red 7 Communications, Kathy@red7communications.com.

Fú Restaurant at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Now Open
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has expanded its culinary offerings with the addition of Fú, an Asian dining destination.  Meaning the word "luck" in English, Fú features a unique fusion of Asian fare such as noodle dishes and the popular dim sum. The menu offers authentic Chinese cuisine with additional regional inspirations, including Korean, Vietnamese and Thai.  Fit for both casual and adventurous guests, signature dishes evoke exotic flavors fired up by prominent Las Vegas resident and Fú’s executive chef, Ming Woo.  A mouthwatering menu of signature libations presents bold flavors and Tahitian influences and serves as the perfect complement to any meal. For more information, contact Lindsey Rathjen, Kirvin Doak Communications, lrathjen@kirvindoak.com.

Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational Returns to Orleans Arena
Featuring two teams ranked in the preseason ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll top 25 -- the University of Wisconsin and Creighton University -- the 12^th annual Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational will return to the Orleans Arena Nov. 23-24. The University of Arkansas, Arizona State University, Florida A&M University, Cornell University, Longwood University and Presbyterian College will round out the field in this year’s tournament. For More Information, contact Jasen Woehrle, the Firm Public Relations, jasenw@thefirmpr.com.

Sam’s Town Announces Return of Mystic Falls Park Winter Wonderland
Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall will be kicking off the holiday season with the public lighting of its special winter display at Mystic Falls Park on Wednesday, Nov. 21 at 5 p.m. The pioneer-themed Mystic Falls Park Light and Water Show, transformed into an immersive winter wonderland experience, begins in Sam’s Town’s porte-cochere with festive lighting and decorative snowflakes leading to Mystic Falls Park. Garland streams, wreath-adorned lampposts, and white light and snow-covered trees fill the atrium, while Cowboy Santa takes up residence in the park’s gazebo. For the first time ever, Sam’s Town will be hosting the 15-minute laser light spectacular hourly during the holiday season, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 1. For more information, contact Jasen Woehrle, the Firm Public Relations, jasenw@thefirmpr.com.

GEICO Endurocross Returns to Orleans Arena
High-octane racing returns to the Orleans Arena for the final race of the 2012 GEICO Endurocross  series Nov. 17. Introduced to the states in 2004 as a single, standalone event, the Maxxis National Endurocross grew to a three-round series in 2007. To celebrate its success in 2008, GEICO Endurocross expanded to a six-round series playing to key markets across the United States. For 2012, Endurocross has expanded once more to eight-rounds including ESPN’s X Games. Top off-road racers from both the United States and Europe will participate. For more information, contact Jasen Woehrle, the Firm Public Relations, jasenw@thefirmpr.com.

Javier’s Now Open at Aria
Southern California hotspot Javier’s is now open at Aria Resort & Casino. Javier’s regionally inspired cuisine and warm, intriguing design brings a spirit of Mexican grandeur to CityCenter while fulfilling a culinary niche for Las Vegas visitors. Characterized by its authentic cooking techniques and fresh, high-quality ingredients, Javier’s regionally influenced Mexican-style fare is unrivalled outside of Mexico and features mouth-watering seafood, steaks, chicken and a selection of vegetarian dishes. For more information, contact Ashley Farkas, MGM Resorts International, afarkas@mgmresorts.com.

American Coney Island Brings a Taste of Detroit to the D Las Vegas
American Coney Island, home of the iconic Detroit Coney Dog, has opened its first out-of-state location at the D Las Vegas. As part of the dramatic transformation taking place at the new downtown property, the D is excited to bring a taste of Detroit to the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas. A favorite of Detroiters and visitors for nearly a century, American Coney Island is the oldest family-owned business in Detroit. Founder Gust Keros coined the phrase "Coney Dog" and introduced the now legendary treat to the city of Detroit in 1917. The high-quality, specially seasoned, natural-casing Dearborn sausage brand hotdog is topped with the Keros family secret recipe Coney Island Chili Sauce, fine mustard and sweet chopped onions, and served in a warm steamed bun. For more information, contact Kaley Briesmaster, Kirvin Doak Communications, kbriesmaster@kirvindoak.com.

Project Pie Now Open at MGM Grand
Project Pie is now open at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. This casual eatery allows guests the opportunity to custom-build artisan pizzas from more than 24 fresh toppings or the option to choose from nine signature pizzas. Pizzas are $12 each and include unlimited toppings. Salads, desserts and handmade milkshakes also are available. Project Pie is open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, contact Suzie Rugh, MGM Resorts International, srugh@mgmresorts.com.

Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa Adding Pinks Hot Dogs to Restaurant Lineup
Block16 Hospitality continues to expand its multi-faceted restaurant portfolio with the addition of Pink’s Hot Dogs, the second location in the Block16 line-up.  Located at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa, Pink’s Hot Dogs is unlike any other hotdog stand in America, featuring classic and unique dogs to please every palette. Replacing Turf Grill, Pink’s Hot Dogs will be located near the poker room and race and sports book inside the resort-casino and will boast an impressive 2,000 square feet of restaurant space. Set to open winter 2012, the menu will be similar to the other Las Vegas outpost location. For more information, contact Amy Carlson, J Public Relations, amy@jpublicrelations.com.

Bonkerz Comedy Productions brings Comedy After Dark to the LVH
Las Vegas Hotel & Casino adds Comedy After Dark to its entertainment offerings in the Shimmer Cabaret. Comedy After Dark shows will be offered Thursday through Sunday evenings. The stand-up comedy show spotlights rotating local and national comedians and will feature the razor-sharp humor of host Anthony Padilla. For more information, contact Jennifer Bradley, BRAINtrust Marketing + Communications, Jennifer.bradley@braintrustlv.com.

Channel Your Inner Bond with the Exclusive 007 Package
Machine Guns Vegas, Beverly Hills Rent-A-Car and STICHED have launched an exclusive 007 package, transforming guests into world-class spies. The 007 experience starts off with a bang, as Beverly Hills Rent-A-Car drops off an Aston Martin Vantage CVT to the front door of the guest’s hotel for 24 hours of zipping through the streets of Las Vegas. The next stop is to Machine Guns Vegas for VIP target practice only suitable for the international man of mystery. Finally, guests complete the look with a custom suit at STICHED, tailored on the spot. For more information, contact Steve Flynn, Langdon Flynn Communications, steve@langdonflynn.com.

Wet ‘n’ Wild Returning to Las Vegas with a $50 Million Water Park
Iconic water park brand, Wet ’n’ Wild, is coming back to Las Vegas with the $50 million Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas set to open in May 2013. Located in the entertainment capital of the world, this world class water park will feature a spectacular line-up of more than 25 slides and attractions, including North America's first rattler slide. For more information, contact Nancy Katz, Purdue Marion & Associates, nancy@purduemarion.com.

PBA World Series of Bowling IV Returns to Las Vegas
The Brunswick Corporation and Professional Bowlers Association will kick off the expanded 2012-13 PBA Tour season in Las Vegas for PBA World Series of Bowling IV Nov. 2-11 at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa. PBA World Series of Bowling IV, a multi-event international competition, will once again be the premier showcase of professional bowling competition with an expected field of more than 200 players representing approximately 15 countries. For more information, contact Jerry Schneider, PBA, jerry.schneider@pba.com.

Ghost Bar Dayclub Launches Second Season
The beast is back at Palms Casino Resort with Ghostbar Dayclub (GBDC), Las Vegas’ first high-energy daytime extravaganza. The weekly party  is every Saturday at 1 p.m., encouraging guests to don playful costumes while indulging in adult-friendly piñatas, high-end beer bongs, choreographed go-go dancers, themed costume parties, music by world-renowned DJs, delicious eats and much more inside Ghostbar, the sultry and sophisticated indoor-outdoor lounge and sky deck located 55 floors above the famous Las Vegas Strip. For more information, contact Ashli Kimenker, 9Group Las Vegas, ashli.kimenker@9groupvegas.com.

Caesars Entertainment Announces Roster of Brands Joining The LINQ
Caesars Entertainment has announced an impressive first wave of tenants to populate The LINQ, the company’s $550 million open-air retail, dining and entertainment district located on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. Brooklyn Bowl and Sprinkles Cupcakes are among the first tenants to sign onto the project which boasts more than 300,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space. Opening in late 2013, more than 70 percent of the development space is committed under signed leases or letters of intent. For more information, contact Candice Seeley, Caesars Entertainment, cseeley@caesars.com.

Tony-Award-Winning Million Dollar Quartet to Begin Performances at Harrah’s Las Vegas
Harrah’s Las Vegas will come alive with the untold story of four rock n’ roll pioneers and how they came together for one magical night, as the smash hit musical Million Dollar Quartet moves into the Harrah’s Showroom Feb. 4, 2013. Tickets are now on sale with prices ranging from $69 to $94. For more information, contact Kate Whiteley, Kirvin Doak Communications, kwhiteley@kirvindoak.com.

Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort to Celebrate 50th Anniversary Season
The Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort (LVSSR) kicks off their 50^th anniversary season this fall. When the resort originally opened, it had one T-bar lift, a warming hut and an A-frame chalet that served as a lodge. The resort has grown tremendously in the last 50 years and is now in the process of implementing a $35 million master development plan that will add 20 more trails for a total of 50 trails and six new lifts for a total of 10) over the next 10 to 12 years. This season alone, guests can look forward to upgrades such as a new quad chairlift, 14 new trails, new locker rooms, a restaurant remodel and an on-mountain grill. For more information, contact Stephanie Forte, Forte Creative Media, sforte@fortecreativemedia.com.

Las Vegas Foodie Fest Returns to Silverton Casino Hotel
The Las Vegas Foodie Fest, featuring more than 40 food trucks and vendors, will return to the Silverton Casino Hotel Nov. 2-4. Foodies will enjoy the tastes of food trucks and vendors, many of which have been featured on The Food Network and The Cooking Channel, including White Rabbit, Fukuburger, Devilicious, Jogasaki Burrito, Tasty Bunz, Baby's Badass Burgers, Truck Norris, Fluff Ice, Vizzi Truck and The Lobster Lady, who will be traveling to the festival all the way from Maine. The festival will feature Nonna's Kitchenette, who will debut their food truck at this year’s event, after being named a finalist of Food Network’s "The Great Food Truck Race," hosted by Tyler Florence. For more information, contact Lauren Hudman, Wicked Creative, lauren.hudman@wickedcreative.com. 

2012 Soul Train Awards Comes to Las Vegas
The 2012 Soul Train Awards is a two-hour celebration of the hottest artists in R&B, hip-hop and classic soul music. Hosted by Cedric the Entertainer at Planet Hollywood Nov. 8, the 2012 Soul Train Awards is a night of musical celebration, tributes and performances spanning the four decades of Soul Train. This year’s show serves as a tribute and a celebration of Don Cornelius, the innovative mind who created Soul Train and influenced the music industry forever. The show will be broadcast on BET Nov. 25.

2012 Latin GRAMMY Awards Return to Las Vegas
The 13th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards will heat up Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on Nov. 15 as today's hottest Latin artists take center stage. This marks the fifth time Las Vegas will host the international showcase of Latin music. For more information, please visit www.latingrammy.com.

Anthony Cools Presents Strip Comedy at Palms Casino Resort
Strip Comedy, described as "uncensored and undressed improv" will begin its run Nov. 7 at The Lounge inside Palms Casino Resort. Presented by Anthony Cools, Strip Comedy brings the longest running improv show in Las Vegas to the intimate entertainment venue in a hilarious game of creativity and wit. For more information, contact Alissa Kelly, PR Plus, Alissa@prpluslv.com. 

DoubleTree by Hilton and the New Tropicana Las Vegas Announce Strategic Partnership
DoubleTree by Hilton and the New Tropicana Las Vegas have announced a strategic franchise agreement that marks the return of Hilton Worldwide to the Las Vegas Strip after an almost 14-year absence. Under the terms of the franchise agreement, Tropicana Las Vegas will continue to own and operate all 1,600 guest rooms in the 35-acre resort. When the hotel becomes the Tropicana Las Vegas – a DoubleTree by Hilton in January 2013, guests will be able to earn and redeem Hilton HHonors points and airline miles at the Strip resort. For more information, contact Maggie Giddens, DoubleTree by Hilton, Maggie.giddens@hilton.com.

Wendy’s 3 Tour Challenge Returns to Rio Secco Golf Club
Since 1992, the Wendy’s 3-Tour Challenge has been the only professional golf tournament that pits three players from the PGA, LPGA and Champions Tours against each other in competitive, head-to-head threesomes for Tour bragging rights. Each threesome consists of one player from each Tour competing in two separate, nine-hole stroke play matches. This year, the Tour returns to Rio Secco Golf Club Nov. 13 with the teams competing for a total purse of $1 million. For more information, visit www.wendys3tour.com.

Indian National Finals Rodeo Returns to Las Vegas
The 2012 Indian National Finals Rodeo (INFR) will return to the South Point Arena for the fifth year Nov. 6-10. This year's event will include three performances of the junior/senior finals as well as seven exciting performances of Indian Professional Rodeo at its best. For more information, visit www.infr.org.

Ram Truck Brand Supports Disaster Relief

 

November 2, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC's Ram Truck brand today donated 20 Ram 1500 Tradesman trucks and $100,000 to the American Red Cross to assist with relief efforts in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.

“The impact of Superstorm Sandy was widespread and the road to recovery will be long for many families,” said Neal Litvack, Chief Development Officer at the American Red Cross. "Through the generosity of its partners such as Ram and Chrysler Group, the American Red Cross is responding with shelter, food and emotional support, helping families and communities with their most critical needs now, and as they begin to move toward recovery.”

The Ram Truck brand's donation will support the massive effort by the American Red Cross to help families and entire communities get back on their feet. On the ground, the Ram Tradesman trucks will help mobilize people and supplies for the Sandy relief efforts and will continue to benefit the organization as permanent members of the American Red Cross’ fleet of vehicles. Large relief operations are underway in New York and New Jersey, where residents felt Sandy’s biggest impact. Shelters and feeding sites are open and emergency vehicles are distributing food, water and relief supplies in these states.

“Our hearts go out to those impacted by Superstorm Sandy," said Fred Diaz, Ram Truck President and CEO Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico – Chrysler Group LLC. "We are inspired by their unwavering spirit in this time of adversity, and Ram is proud to support relief and recovery efforts by providing the Red Cross with a team of Ram trucks to support this critical mission.”

How to Help: People can make a financial donation in support of Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to local Red Cross chapters or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Chrysler Group and its brands have a long history of supporting its communities in their time of need. In March, the Ram Truck brand and The Weather Channel Companies (TWCC) announced a partnership with the First Response Team of America, a nonprofit disaster relief organization. The First Response Team arrived ahead of Sandy to assist local first responders with rescues and to provide help with cleanup efforts.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

About Ram Truck Brand
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they'd like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.