ELAINE WYNN Lessons Learned and Lived

People Community Philanthropy Cuisine Fashion

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BLUEHERON.com | 702.531.3000 CONTENTS vol 2 | no 11 | november 2012 REAL ESTATE

las vegas FEATURE: Elaine Wynn “Every child should have an opportunity to lead a fine homes fulfilling life however they define such a life.” 42

Cuisine: Vintner Grill Diamond Cake throws a dinner party at Summerlin’s culnary haute spot. 22

Cuisine: Power Lunch Jersey Boys’ Keith Thompson and Philip Fortenberry ... in perfect tune for lunch at Marché Bacchus. 28 See Page 54

Close Up: Jeff Gordon Sirio’s Executive Chef Vincent Scarmiglia’s housemade digestifs are the perfect palate pleasers. 48 About the cover

Fast Lane: Ferrari Club President of Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation gears up for annual Profiles of Courage Gala. 66

Wine & Spirits: Cellos Sirio’s executive chef Vincent Scarmiglia’s housemade digestifs are the perfect palate pleasers. 70

Well-Being: Fall Spa Treatments Indulge in savory spa treatments that are sure to put you in a festive mood. 74

The Wall: Art Basel Miami Beach: the perfect backdrop for the world’s premier art show for modern and contemporary works. 86

“When I observe a child walk into my environment, I get gushy. There’s something about seeing little children that warms my heart. I’m sure it’s hormonal! It’s also an issue of conscience on a personal level. I find it difficult to live a life that’s privileged, when I’m aware of so many people who don’t have equal opportunity.” Publisher Editor Creative Director Jimmy Foster LESLIE FRISBEE NILS LEUFVEN

editorial RESULTS

editorial contributors THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. Jessi C. Acuña, Jim Begley, Chris Carney, Miles Dickson, Marisa Finetti, Jarret Keene, Al Mancini, Farid Matraki, Florence Shapiro, Jill Thompson, Carla Zvosec

cover photographer Jerry Metellus jerrymetellus.com

contributing photographers Eric Ita ericitaphoto.com Sabin Orr sabinorrphotography.com Lucky Wenzel luckywenzelphotography.com

stylist Christie Moeller icanstyleu.com

hair & makeup Zee Clemente zeestylz.com

media web master Dunn Hill Malait filsupport.com

sales and m arketing director of sales & business development Jamal Parker whisperinggiants.com office and event manager Katie Wallace events manager Lisa Goulston

special t hanks Elaine Wynn

diamondcakemagazine.com

$125 Million in Sales Volume 2011 | PROVEN & CONSISTENT Performance To Schedule a Listing Presentation, Please Call the Office | 702.378.3879 | lasvegasfinehomes.com contributors

Marisa Finetti AL MANCINI CHRIS CARNEY SABIN ORR

A journalism major from Cal Former attorney Al Mancini A graduate of the University of A graduate from SIU, Sabin Orr Poly landed Finetti a job at has been reporting on Las New Hampshire, Chris Carney has been shooting professionally GET A BETTER RETURN ON LIFE’S Paramount Pictures and a Vegas for ABC News Radio has worked for over a decade for more than a decade. Before career in entertainment public for more than a decade. as both a freelance writer and moving to Las Vegas in 2006, relations, before making the He began his food writing career as a producer and development Orr had is own studio in MOST VALUABLE COMMODITY: TIME switch to editorial. You’ve seen in 2002, and is currently the executive for Secret Legion Chicago where he specialized in her work in Spirit magazine, restaurant critic for Las Vegas Productions. He is currently product, portrait, sports, tabletop No task too small. No job too big. From day-to-day family transactions to Nevada Magazine, Las Vegas CityLife and a regular contributor the Las Vegas Guide for About. and advertising photography. Magazine, DAVID and VEGAS to Desert Companion and Luxury com at lasvegas.about.com, One of Vegas’ most respected long-term investments, the Private Bank by Nevada State Bank gives you Magazine, as well as health Las Vegas. He hosts the weekly has written extensively for Las food photographers, Orr has more time to spend on the things that really matter. Let us care for your life’s blogs like hivehealthmedia.com webcast Top Of The Food Chain Vegas Magazine and been a photographed the top restaurants bottom line with our unparalleled personal service and comprehensive wealth and her own blog, bestbewell. on the Vegas Video Network, and featured contributor to Nevada and chefs from around the world. management services. 283 com. While all this work-related Dining Invasion on his website, Magazine, Hard Rock Hotel To see more of Sabin’s work, visit talk is good and all, her first AlMancini.net. His book Eating Magazine and AOL Travel. Visit his website orrdigital.com. real passion is her family, as Las Vegas: The 50 Essential cmcarney.blogspot.com to see they inspire her each day to Restaurants recently published more of his work. be better than the day before. its second edition. Follow Marisa on Twitter at @ MarisaFinetti.

Member nsbank.com/private | 702.855.4596 14 NOVEMBER 2012 FDIC letter f rom the p ublisher

Change is in the air. It’s Saturday morning, Nov. 3. This month’s issue is nearly on its way to the printing press. Before it can go, though, I need to write my publisher’s letter. The reason it’s being written last is because I’ve put organizing the magazine and the business of Diamond Cake ahead of writing this letter. The past few weeks, since my return to Las Vegas from an eye-opening experience vacationing in Barcelona, Spain, have come with many changes—good changes. Each is tied to the idea of making progress. Signs of progress, after all, are what motivate others to continue on a path toward a goal or desired outcome. Progress can come in all sizes, shapes and forms, such as simplicity, improved time management, new sales, better organization, clearer communi- cation, work-flow efficiencies, better understanding and simply, and literally, moving forward.

I am happy to announce Diamond Cake has opened a formal office in a live-and-work-type space located on the 21st floor of The Ogden high-rise in downtown Las Vegas. Diamond Cake now has a home from which to operate, a home perched high above the city, with views in just about every direction allowing us to keep a watchful eye on Las Vegas. It also helps us to stay focused on the city, which has inspired a new marketing platform and company culture that includes values and philosophies we trust will propel our existence far into the future, both locally and beyond state lines. The path of least resistance is a bore. It’s now onward and upward with excitement and adventure ahead of us every step of the way. Happy holidays, and thank you for reading.

Jimmy f oster

P.S. A special thank you to Leslie Frisbee for her work here at Diamond Cake over the last several months; we are grateful for the skills and talent she’s contributed towards elevat- ing the Diamond Cake brand. We wish you the very best on all your exciting business endeavors. We will be rooting you on from the Diamond Cake office, as we look out onto the city each day. Be well.

16 NOVEMBER 2012 letter from the EDITOR

Leslie Frisbee, Frank Schreck and his daughter, Sydney, at the 18th annual Serenades of Life-Doctors in Concert to benefit NAH’s Bonnie Schreck Memorial Complementary Therapies Program

Coco Chanel said a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous. And few people embody those qualities more exquisitely than our November cover sub- ject, Elaine Wynn. The personification of grace and elegance, Wynn is constantly lauded for her keen sense of style; she was, after all, the one who introduced our city to such fashion powerhouses as Chanel, Hermès and Oscar de la Renta. However, much more than Las Vegas’ most celebrated fashion icon, Wynn is a tireless advocate for children and education. The mother, grandmother and philanthropist recently sat down with Diamond Cake contributor Jarret Keene to talk about her passion for helping those less fortunate, education and her role as national chairwoman of Communities In Schools, which is the nation’s leading dropout prevention organization. Another organization doing amazing things in our community is the Nathan Adel- son Hospice. While most Las Vegans are familiar with the exceptional end-of-life care the hospice provides our community, few are aware of one of the hospice’s most important programs—The Bonnie Schreck Memorial Complementary Therapies Program. Named after world-renowned gaming attorney, philanthropist and Henderson native Frank Schreck’s late wife, Bonnie, the program was created in 1999 in response to the emotional stress and anxiety incurred by patients dealing with end-of-life issues. Through The Bonnie Schreck Memorial Complementary Therapies Program, pa- TIRED OF COOKING? tients and their loved ones have access to various therapies, such as aromather- EXPLORE OUR amazing CATERING & SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES apy, pet therapy and massage, to help ease emotional discomfort by providing a calming and soothing environment. For more information on how you can support this incredible program, please visit nah.org. Finally, it is bittersweet that I announce that this will be my last issue as editor of Diamond Cake. As many of you know, it’s been my dream to launch a digital- print hybrid integrated-marketing publication focused on the luxury lifestyle. Af- ter two years of working on the technology, I’m excited to announce that we will be launching C&C early next year. C&C will feature a unique application developed by Codee Software that will allow readers an innovative way to experience compelling and creative content on multiple platforms. So, as I embark on my new journey, I thank you for the opportunity you’ve given me in the past several months to share your stories and introduce you to the incredible people and organizations that make our city so special.

Stay classy and fabulous, Vegas!

VINTNER GRILL

Strip: 3200 Las Vegas Blvd South #100 | Summerlin: 10100 West Charleston Boulevard #150 LESLIE F RISBEE vglasvegas.com | 702 214 5577

18 NOVEMBER 2012 Each month Diamond Cake Magazine brings you limited-edition items, one-of-a-kind finds and... exclusive events that can’t be missed! covetsHere’s what we’re obsessing about this month:

NCCF’s 19th annual Profiles of Courage Gala to celebrate courageous children fighting a daily battle against disease takes place on Saturday, Nov. 17, at Bellagio Las Vegas. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit nvccf.org. Celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, Nov. 22, at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas’ Verandah restuarant with a festive four-course meal that includes traditional With only 10 bottles allocated for the entire country, The oven-roasted free range turkey, bourbon-braised short Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is the first establishment in the ribs and classic American pies. For reservations, call United States to offer the 50-year-old Balvenie Pure Malt 702.632.5121. Scotch Whisky—one of the rarest expressions of authentic single malt scotch whisky ever released.

Up to nine charities will benefit from the sale of fantasy gifts featured in the 2012 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book, which includes a limited-edition McLaren, his and hers Van Cleef & Arpels watches and a walk-on role in Annie: The Musical.

Forbes five-star spa at Wynn Las Vegas features decadent treat- Best-selling solo pianist Jim Brickman brings ments such as the Choco Latte Body Buff. Using properties of or- his On A Winter’s Night tour to The Smith ganic green coffee and cacao from Hawaii, this scrub and body Center for Performing Arts on Monday, Nov. butter envelopment leaves the skin smooth and the mind clear. For 12. For tickets, visit thesmithcenter.com.. reservations, call The Spa at Wynn Las Vegas 702.770.3900.

The 2012 Ferrari FF Ferrari Four. The Ferrari Four is the first four-seat, four-wheel drive Ferrari and is the most versatile Ferrari ever built. The FF can be seen exclusively at The Penske-Wynn Ferrari dealership located at Wynn Las Vegas.

Get your elf on and help out a great cause! Opportunity Vil- lage’s Magical Forest season opens Wednesday, Nov. 21, and runs through Jan. 6. For more information on the Magical Forest and Opportunity Village, go to opportunityvillage.org or call 702.259.3700.

One of the most anticipated events for fashionistas around the world, Black Friday, (Nov. 23), officially kicks off the holiday shopping season.

The final performance date of Garth Brooks at Wynn Las Vegas is Nov. 17. For more information and tickets, visit ticketmaster.com or call 1.877.65GARTH. 20 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 21 CUISINE

LOCALS’ FAVORITE Diamond Cake Throws a Dinner Party At VInTNER GRILL by al mancini, select photos by sabin orr

Vintner Grill is not just any neighborhood restaurant; it’s the crowning jewel in real estate developer Michael Corrigan’s ex- tremely successful restaurant empire. Its plush white décor is stunning, and Chef Matt Silverman’s cuisine is simple, yet con- sistently perfect. Combine those facts with its Sumerlin locale, and it’s no surprise the place is the off-Strip pick of some of the Valley’s most sophisticated diners. “Everyone from town, the presidents from every hotel, all those guys—this is where they hang out when they want to get away from The Strip,” says Silverman. “They all come here.”

For all of those reasons, Diamond Cake knew Vintner was the perfect spot for the second in a new monthly series of private dinners hosted by the magazine, and attended by some of the most powerful and influential people in Las Vegas. When Silverman saw the guest list, however, he knew it would pose special challenges.

“They’re all our regular guests,” he explains of the invitees. “Ev- eryone’s here all the time. [So] we did something a little bit different for you guys, because I’m sure they’ve had most of the stuff on the menu.”

Determined to give this prestigious group a meal like they’ve never experienced, the chef designed the five-course menu from scratch, offering dishes created especially for the occasion. He charged his sommelier with selecting the perfect pairing, utilizing the wines from around the world. (The chosen labels came from New Zealand, France, California and Greece.) And despite his many duties at Corrigan’s other restaurants, and his recent consulting work at New York City’s famed Spotted Pig, Silver- man made it a point to be in the kitchen himself to oversee the preparation of each dish. The results, everyone in attendance agreed, were superb.

The evening started early, with husband-and-wife public relations experts Michelle Tell and James Woodrow of Preferred P.R. among the first to arrive. As they and subsequent guests

22 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 23 CUISINE “Determined to give this p restigious group a meal like they’ve never experienced, the chef designed the f ive-course menu from scratch, offering dishes created especially for the occasion.”

sipped champagne just outside of the restaurant’s private dining room, admiring the chefs at work in the open kitchen, the crowd of VIP’s grew. By the time people began to take their seats at the table of honor, that crowd included designers Jill Thomp- son and Aaron Coggins, custom home contractor Bart Jones, entertainment entrepreneur Telly Eliades, Van Cleef and Arpels’ Ruth Fung, Doll Factory owner Mackenzie Parker, Crystals Vice President Farid Matriki, attorney Tim O’Reilly, and several top Diamond Cake executives. But it was the arrival of photographer Jerry Metellus (one of several returning guests from the previous month’s dinner) and Diamond Cake’s publisher Jimmy Foster that signaled the party was complete, prompting the staff to draw the drapes that separate the private room from the main room.

Realtor and Diamond Cake partner Ivan Sher once again began the evening with a toast, welcoming the crowd, noting the fact the magazine has now been published for a year, and repeating a quote that’s come to represent the philosophy of both the magazine, and its new dinner series: “When you get good people together, great things happen.”

With that, the next glass of wine was poured: a 2010 New Zea- land sauvignon blanc. To accompany it, the waitstaff delivered an extraordinarily delicate cauliflower soup, seasoned with chili oil, chives and crisp pancetta and finished with a huge portion of butter-poached king crab.

“It’s a real simple puree, that crab soup—it’s all about the cauliflower and the crab,” says Silverman. “It’s just a real simple deal with a little essence of truffle and the underlying fennel.”

Simple? Perhaps. But everyone in the room agreed it was delicious.

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ORIGINALLY CRAFTED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

As the evening progressed, the people who helped build course paired perfectly: cooked halibut with heirloom this town shared stories of past projects and collabora- beans, baby fennel, heirloom potatoes and blood orange. tions: the artists they’d known since their teens, the land- Course number four was a beautiful New York strip steak mark public spaces and private homes they’d decorated, cooked over the restaurant’s mesquite grill. And to finish even the chef ’s private herd of goats. They also spoke of it off, truffle-salted dulce de leche served with quadrello their plans to continue to leave their respective marks on cheese, chocolate biscotti and fresh berries. our growing city. As the crowd slowly dispersed, it was obvious to everyone Named after the Holiday star, Stella Artois was first brewed as a holiday beer as a gift Through it all, the food kept coming. There were butter- that Sher, Foster and the entire staff of Diamond Cake have to the people of Leuven, Belgium. A golden lager in contrast to the popular dark nut squash ravolinis with duck confit. Silverman’s seafood created one off the hottest culinary events in town. ales of the time, its brilliant amber color illuminated holiday celebrations for generations thereafter. “Ar tois” acknowledges Sebastian Artois, the master brewer and owner of the brewery.

Brand: Holiday Chalice Closing Date: 10/25/12 Trim: 9.375x12 PA AE Item #: PSA201210378 QC:: CS Bleed:9.625x12.25 AD CD Job/Order #: 244991 Publication: Diamond Cake Live: 8.375x11 AM CUISINE

POWER LUNCH With Musical Maestros Keith T hompson and Philip Fortenberry by leslie frisbee, photos by sabin orr

In a city where entertainers are a dime a dozen, and shows open and close faster than a Penn & Teller sleight-of-hand, 15 minutes of fame seems more a rite of passage than a cliché. However, there are those rare few, whose star is destined to shine, even in the middle of rural Mississippi, thousands of miles from the glitz and glam and where the only neon light belongs to the local Motel 6. This is precisely the case for musical maestros Keith Thompson and Philip Fortenberry. While their names may not be instantly recognizable, collectively, their professional credits include some of the most world-renowned musical theater productions on Broadway and the Las Vegas Strip. During the past 25 years, the William Carey University graduates have performed in such shows as Jesus Christ Superstar, We Will Rock You, Mamma Mia!, Hairspray, The Producers, Saturday Night Fever and Jersey Boys. I recently caught up with the dynamic duo at power lunch spot Marché Bacchus in Summerlin. Before sitting down to a gourmet lunch prepared by Executive Chef Dave Middleton, Bacchus’ owner, Rhonda Wyatt, assisted Thompson and Fortenberry in selecting a Tavel rosé—the perfect complement to the stunning lakeside setting. On the menu: torchon of foie gras, roasted beet salad, seared sea scallops and crab cakes

Why is Marché Bacchus your favorite power I had the great fortune to see God Lives in Glass and lunch spot? was very moved by the production. Tell me how that came about. KT: It’s about being out on the water, where I don’t feel like I’m in Las Vegas. When we found this place, we were KT: I was working at New York University in 2002 when instantly enamored; it tends to inspire you—feelings, the director I was working with introduced me to Robert emotions and creativity. Landy, who wrote the book God Lives in Glass. He sug- gested we do a musical version of it. And having just come out of 9/11, it seemed like such a great way of PF: It’s an oasis. When I leave here, I feel like I’ve been bridging the gap of the cultural division that was going somewhere. It’s the antithesis of what you think of when on at the time. The experience of writing that was unlike you think Vegas. any other experience I’ve had.

You both have worked together and collaborated on PF: As a pianist, it’s incredibly significant to have a com- several projects: Hairspray, We Will Rock You, Jersey poser write a piece knowing the hands that will ultimately Boys etc. Is there one project that stands out more play it were the inspiration for the material … there’s than the others? nothing quite like that experience. KT: I would have to say We Will Rock You. I had been of- Composer’s Showcase is such a treat for both enter- fered Mama Mia! here in Vegas a year and a half before tainers and locals. Tell me how that came about and and I turned it down. However, when the opportunity to how the community has received it? work with Queen came around … I just couldn’t pass it up. The music, band and musicians are some of the best KT: Michael Brennan, who was the conductor of Mamma I’ve ever worked with. It was, for me, my favorite musical Mia!, and I are both writers. We thought it would be in- and theatrical experience. teresting if we had a night where we did a showcase that just featured original music. So, we got four composers PF: I had come from working on nine shows on Broad- and began doing it every month. We found a home at way, prior to We Will Rock You … playing music in the the Liberace Museum … at the time, no one knew about style of [Queen] is one thing, but being spoon feed music us. Now it’s gone from this tiny idea at this little gay by Queen’s Brian May is the real deal. God Lives in Glass is cabaret on the Fruit Loop to the Jazz Cabaret at The also a performers dream. Smith Center.

28 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 29 CUISINE

PF: The thing about entertainers is, we have to do this; we have to find an outlet. The locals know we’re going to create something to feed our artistic self. So, it’s the local people who’ve seen everything on the Strip who look for B E LI E V E ... us. And many of those same people, who now come to the Jazz Cabaret, would show up an hour early to Lib- T h e r e ’ s a c h a n g e a r o u n d t h e c o r n e r erace Museum just to make sure they could get a table.

Phillip, I understand that you play Michael Douglas’ fingers in Behind the Candelabra. What was that experience like? PF: I’m the piano double. Initially, they were looking for a hand double—someone whose hands looked like Mi- chael Douglas’. Then they wanted to make sure I could play. It was really intense. I not only had to learn Lib- erace’s mannerisms, I had to learn his entire repertoire.

You are both part of Jersey Boys, which, undoubt- edly, is one of the best productions in Las Vegas. Tell me what it’s like to be part of that production. KT: I went after this job. I heard they were coming, so I contacted them and I was told there wasn’t a job for me. So I flew myself out to New York, went through the training. After doing that, they let me conduct it on Broadway as my audition, and I go the job. It’s very exciting to have a great job in a great show. It’s a wonderful script and so beautifully directed. And the music is the music I grew up with PF: Las Vegas and Broadway are all about who you know. Keith had gotten the job, and I guess he told them he would like me as his associate … and it was just a given. It’s wonderful to be part of something so great.

What was the first professional musical production you saw and where was it? KT: A Chorus Line. It’s about dancing, but it’s a remarkable piece of music. So, when I was in college, [A Chorus

Line] was brand new and everyone was listening to it … P h o t o by B r itt a n y R u li s P h o t o g r a p h y then I got to go to New York and see it. I was hooked. PF: The show that affected me most deeply was Sideshow. The opening number is called Come Look at the Freaks. I was 4 years old when I realized I was gifted to play the piano—like I play now. People would come from all over to see me play, so I always felt like a sideshow attraction.

If you weren’t in the entertainment business what would you be doing? KT: Wine. When I was doing Hairspray, they closed us with one-week notice. So, I found a course starting the day after Hairspray closed, and 10 months later, I was a sommelier. PF: I would love to work for CarMax … I love cars. I think I would make a great salesman.

If you could have power lunch with one person living or dead, who would it be? KT: I would probably choose Karen MacNeil, who wrote From Infertility to Family The Wine Bible; it’s my favorite wine reference book. FI r s T P R IVAT E I V F C LI N I C I N T h e U . S . | E LIT E , I n d IVI d u a L LY TA ILo r e d c a r e PF: Liberace, mainly because I would love to gain access T r a I n e d u n d e r n o B E L P R IZ E W I n n e r | F I r s T c h o I c e O F PATI e n T S F r o M 2 3 c o u n T R I e s to that business savvy and marketing expertise that made him an icon.

Photographer: Jerry Metellus Stylist: Christie Moeller Makeup and Hair: Zee Clemente Photo Assist: Unico Clemente Lighting Tech: Todd Lussier Models: T.J. and Ivana from Envy Model Management

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36 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 37 FASHION

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40 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 41 FEATURE

Important lessons f rom education advocate Elaine Wynn by jarret keene, photos by jerry metellus

The “casino queen” tag still hangs above the elegant, inspiring figure of The Huffington Post’s 2011 Game Changer (in the Im- pact and Education category), Elaine Wynn. The offices of the Las Vegas organizations to which she dedicates her energy—Commu- nities In Schools and After-School All-Stars—are located behind Wynn resort in a structure that houses the hotel’s human resources department and sharp-dressed XS nightclub team.

42 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 43 FEATURE

How did you get involved with Communities In Schools? My involvement grew out of observations I had while raising my chil- “I find it difficult to live a life that’s privileged, when I’m aware dren and being involved in other education-related efforts in town many years ago. Now, in those days, everyone was in denial about the dropout of so many people who don’t have equal opportunity.” problem. We had terrible data systems. No one could even give you an accurate story on the real graduation rate.

I instinctively knew what was going on in Las Vegas, and I was alarmed. We were starting to receive dire reports on national tests, and I wanted to see if we could address the problem. I started to do research and came across what was then called Cities in Schools (later renamed Com- munities In Schools). It made sense to me, and so I and others met the organization’s founder and vice chairman Bill Milliken when he came to town. I said to myself, “This is the method. I want to participate.”

Does our country’s dropout problem impact our still-struggling economy? The dropout rate is part of the economy’s problem, absolutely. First of all, we’re living in a time when post-secondary education is a must, for the jobs of today and of the future. How do you get a post-secondary education, if you don’t graduate from high school?

There are training programs and other options. But they’re frag- mented. We’ve always been able to identify the social costs. As Elaine congratulating an emotional “CIS Unsung Hero” MSNBC’s Early Today’s early wake-up is worth telling the country about dropouts a matter of fact, let me cite Thomas Friedman’s The New York Times (Sept. 8, “New Rules”) column from yesterday, because he cites percent- ages. Step into her presence, though, and the thrum of the gaming biz fades. You learn very quickly you’re conversing with someone who thoroughly has studied public education in this country. She knows the dropout problem and its consequences. (Nevada’s graduation rate has risen to 61.9 The unemployment rate for dropouts is 12 percent. It’s 8.8 percent for percent, but still two of every five students do not graduate in four years.) high school graduates. The unemployment rate is 6.6 percent for those with two years of college education and 4.1 percent for people with As national chairwoman of CIS, she seeks to help low-income students get the resources they need to focus on school. As co-chairwoman of four years of college. Clearly, staying in school affects employment. It ASAS, she strives to encourage programs enabling kids to succeed in school and life. also impacts earning power. High school dropouts, over the course of a lifetime, earn considerably less than those who have graduated. Diamond Cake had the privilege of sitting down with Wynn to talk about the need to reintroduce a sense of community in our public schools, the reason for her ceaseless commitment to the challenge of public education and why philanthropy shouldn’t be extracted but should instead Tax coffers are significantly diminished by unproductive citizens. The stem from a person’s innate values. more people who work and work at great jobs, the higher the taxes will be that the government collects and can put toward education. We’re losing revenue, if you want to be cold about it, which adds to the increasing cost of caring for those who aren’t fully educated. What is your educational experience, and does it differ from I benefited from a golden time in education. What helped me the most what today’s kids undergo? were leadership opportunities at my high school, extracurricular and co- We hear about available jobs not being filled, because we don’t have curricular activities like service clubs, choir, sports, cheerleading. Enrich- an educated workforce. We’re outsourcing and importing people to As I was growing up, my family moved around. Some of my best ment programs were helpful, because they made school feel like a com- fill these jobs, because we’re poorly preparing Americans to take these memories as a child center on attending public school in Washington, munity. When I became an adult, I thought of life the same way—that jobs. That’s an economic look at the dropout problem. Then there’s the D.C. Then I went to school in the suburbs of Bethesda, Md., and you weren’t confined to one role, that you had opportunities and were broader issue of not having people understand citizenship or how to then in Chicago and then, finally, Miami Beach, Fla., where I went to encouraged to be multidimensional. make enlightened decisions, voting decisions, political decisions. They junior high and high school. So I enjoyed a combination of suburban don’t realize the importance of community involvement, because they and urban public-school experiences. So your educational experience explains why you’re an advocate? don’t have any civic background. All this comes into play. But the years during which I received an education were vastly dif- No, what makes me that is, first and foremost, I possess a very maternal ferent compared to now. Computers weren’t on the horizon, so nature. When I observe a child walk into my environment, I get gushy. How does Communities In Schools address this issue? technology wasn’t an issue. Schoolhouses were considered safe; they There’s something about seeing little children that warms my heart. I’m We’re in a field called integrated student services. These are the “wrap- were honored as great institutions. Teachers were revered. And it was sure it’s hormonal! It’s also an issue of conscience on a personal level. I around” services that are brought to schools. These services address a time when most women in the workforce were teaching and not find it difficult to live a life that’s privileged, when I’m aware of so many many unmet social needs, so that kids will be prepared to receive instruc- working in other fields. This meant the quality of teachers was excep- people who don’t have equal opportunity. tion. We don’t operate in the world of pedagogy or teachers or curricu- tionally high, because the best women in the workforce were teachers. lum. We bring in mentoring, after-school programs, medical assistance, I had the benefit of theLeave It to Beaver days, the ’50s and ’60s, which It’s not that they have to be rich, not that they must drive fancy cars or clothing, counseling, job training, scholarship help—all the peripheral were wonderful times in America to receive a public education. have material things. But every child should have an opportunity to lead things that give children hope. Things students don’t have, so when they a fulfilling life however they define such a life. I’m not defining anyone do learn and graduate, they’re whole people. So the country was entirely different then? else’s life for him. It’s almost a civil rights issue for me. More and more, especially in the times we’re living in, a vast chasm is growing between CIS is in 25 states and the District of Columbia, and we just completed Well, the social issues were not as pronounced. Not everyone was the haves and have-nots. There’s too much of a class system. It bothers a five-year evaluation. Where CIS is applied with fidelity, we improve experiencing prosperity, but it was the age of the Great Middle Class. me morally. It violates my sense of values. the graduation rate, we reduce the dropout rate and we improve English and math scores between the fourth and eighth grades. Nobody else can say that. 44 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 45 FEATURE

Elaine Wynn and Andre Agassi receive the 2011 Lewis Hine Awards for Distinguished Service

We’re very involved in policy, so that policymakers understand the critical role these wraparound services perform, and so they encourage and help fund possible organizations that provide similar services. CIS has been operating for 30 years. We have a track record that is evidence- based and broadly supported thanks to credible foundations and public and private funds.

Do the presidential candidates or political parties address the dropout problem? My favorite U.S. Secretary of Education since I’ve been alive is the current one: Arne Duncan. He deserves an “A” for providing the focus, plans and federal support for real education reform. To the extent that he’s in Obama’s administration, the current administration deserves credit. [Duncan] has been to Nevada many times and understands the toughest school districts. He’s taken on critical issues most people shy away from. I greatly respect this administration for its work on education.

You served on the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Education for former Gov. Jim Gibbons? [It was] a wonderful opportunity. It allowed me to engage with a wide range of stakeholders in the state, as we crafted our Race to the Top federal grant application. We engaged in a plan for reform that was sub- mitted to the last legislative session, and many of the things we recommended were put into effect—for instance, the Teachers and Leaders Council, which develops statewide performance standards for teachers. Using the council’s recommendations, the State Board of Education will viduals to be discouraged. There are amazing people in this world, and adopt statewide performance standards. That’s just one result. it only takes one good idea to be transformative. Gifted minds arrive with each successive generation—Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, iconic What’s it like having a school, Elaine Wynn Elementary, named people who are successful in business and go on to be philanthropic. after you? Are business leaders responsible for a community? Or should Our public schools represent the very heart of our democracy. To be philanthropy come straight from the heart? recognized with a school named after you is an indescribable honor. I remember seeing schools named after people as a kid and thinking, “Who It used to be my pet peeve when people would extract philanthropy are these amazing people?” A school is supposed to symbolize some- from others and then pass judgment on whether or not someone is thing about a person that is good and noble, so being honored like that generous. I think people have the right to live their lives the way they makes you feel good and noble. want, so long as they’re productive and not hurting anyone. Usually, if they’re being productive, they’re setting a good example and You have grandchildren. Do you worry about the world they will not being a burden. That’s our highest calling—to set a good example inherit? and not be burdensome. Not at all. I’m a cockeyed optimist. I have to be. I believe there is a solu- If you go beyond that and find it in your heart to help your commu- tion for every problem; that people are capable of solving any problem. nity, that’s the frosting on the cake of your higher calling. These are We’re usually at our best in crisis. I see evidence of too many gifted indi- values you either get from your own life

To learn more about Communities In Schools and After-School All-Stars, visit communitiesinschools.org and afterschoolallstars.org. Learn more. clevelandclinic.org/brainhealth

46 NOVEMBER 2012 CLOSE U P

POSITIVE attitude Local organization raises funds to help the ill by chris carney, photos by jerry metellus

Life is not always fair. As adults, we accept this bitter truth. We have lived our lives through loss and triumph. Most of us, if we are honest with ourselves, can trace our current circumstances to past actions. In many ways, we have made the life we are living. Random chance and misfortune may enter our lives, but for the most part, we are the product of our past decisions. We have made the world we live in. But for the children afflicted with life-threatening diseases, such as cancer, sickle cell anemia, AIDS, immune disorders and blood diseases, their lives have become the victim of extreme injustice. Through no fault of their own, they have become sick, and the devastating truth is that some of them will not get better. The Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation does not cure the cancer or beat the immune disease. That job is left to the amazing doctors and nurses of the various hospitals that dot the Las Vegas Valley. But what the foundation does do is equally as important and critical. The NCCF “works side by side with the medical community to help children and their families emotionally, financially, socially and through education,” says Jeffrey Gordon, president of the NCCF. “Medical science has made great strides in the past 15 years. Cancer and other diseases that once had a 53 percent cure rate now have an 80 percent cure rate,” Gordon says. Studies have proven “how important attitude and the stress level is in getting better.” These factors play an incredibly powerful role in healing and help create an environment in which the amazing can occur. “It’s the attitude we bring to life that serves as the catalyst to miracles happening.”

adds Gordon. “A positive attitude is more important than facts, money, failures and successes and the past.” But for families devastated by the news that their child is sick, a positive attitude is not easy to achieve. That is where the work of the NCCF comes in.

48 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 49 CLOSE U P

Single?

“We let them know that they Successful, Selective, Attractive, Simply too busy? are part of our family,”

According to Gordon, within 24 to 48 hours after a life-threatening diagnosis, the child and their family are shown that they do not have to tread “the troubled waters on their own, and that there is hope.” “We let them know that they are part of our family,” says Gor- don. “We see where they are financially, and our programs never cost them a thing. Many families survive on two incomes, and when a child gets sick, one parent must quit their job.” Through its 35 programs and services, the NCCF provides the children, as well as their moms, dads and even siblings, with counseling and educational services to help bolster a positive attitude, so that the healing can begin. While the work the organization does is unquestionably amazing, it does not come cheaply. To help spread the word and raise much-needed funds, the NCCF has numerous events throughout the calendar year. The most important of these is the Pro- files of Courage Gala being held on Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Bellagio Las Vegas. Held annually “to celebrate courageous children fighting a daily battle against disease, special adults touched by cancer and members of the community who help provide hope and triumph in the fight against disease” the Profiles of Courage Gala is responsible for much of the NCCF’s annual operating budget. “In life, we cannot always do magnificent things,” Gordon says, “but we can do small things with great love.” As the old saying goes, love (and some great medical care) can cure all ills. Help give these kids some much-deserved love and choose to do a small and wonderful thing.

MAKING LOVE HAPPEN. AWARDED “TOP MATCHMAKER IN THE WORLD 2010 & 2011”

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FERRARI CLUB Gets Revved Up About Local Charity by chris carney, photos by alex stone

It may seem odd to modern-day Ferrari owners, but Enzo Fer- rari, founder of the epic luxury race car company, was a reserved man. It is one of the odd dichotomies of our world that a man whose personal life was marked by quietness would create one of the most obvious symbols of wealth and excess.

Yet therein lies one of the secrets that makes Ferrari one of the most misunderstood of all brands, while equally contributing to its near centurylong success.

Ferrari Club members gathering at Cars and Coffee Las Vegas

Ferraris have become a symbol of excess; a clear demarcation line is drawn between those who have and those who have not. Or so popular, jealous convention would have us believe. Ferraris, along with their Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo and Aston Martin brothers, conjure jests involving fears of sexual inadequacy or mid-life crises.

While these cultural biases may have some basis in fact, most Fer- rari owners would smile and laugh the light chortle of someone who knows differently.

For Ferrari owners, it is about the majesty of the machine and the artistry of design. Get behind the wheel of one of these ma- chines, be it a classic 275 GTS or a modern F512 M, and you will begin to understand why organizations like the Ferrari Club of Las Vegas exist.

Originally founded 50 years ago, the Ferrari Club of America brought together “like-minded individuals to preserve the automobiles and keep them original,” says Paul Hesselgesser, president of the Las Vegas chapter of the club.

66 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 67 FAST LANE

STEVE KAPLAN General Manager

“You don’t even need to own a Ferrari to j oin. All that is required is a love and a ppreciation for the automobile.”

“We are friendly and low-key and make every attempt to limit poli- drive authentic Ferrari racing cars. That perk alone may be worth tics,” says Hesselgesser. “You don’t even need to own a Ferrari to join. the annual fee. All that is required is a love and appreciation for the automobile.” Golfers have their country clubs, doctors and lawyers have their Appreciation and love for the amazing craftsmanship of the Fer- professional associations and Ferrari owners have the Ferrari Club rari is easy to acquire, and once the bite has taken root, it is natural of America. and healthy to want to socialize with “like-minded individuals.” But the organization is about more than just the cars. It is about the The modest annual membership fee grants members three dis- people, and when passionate people of means gather, good things tinct benefits. often can result. “First, we hold monthly socials at various restaurants around the “In celebration of the Ferrari Club’s 50th anniversary, we have Valley,” explains Hesselgesser about gatherings at which members made a push to get more involved with charitable organizations,” can watch Formula 1 races and cheer on their favorite drivers. says Hesselgesser. Secondly, the club also organizes “technical sessions with our To that end, the Las Vegas chapter of the Ferrari Club of America friends at Penske-Wynn Ferrari,” where owners can learn about has chosen the Ronald McDonald House as its charity. their automobiles and network on all aspects of owning, preserv- The organizing principles behind the club offers proof that stereo- ing and caring for these stallions of the roadways. types and popular beliefs often cloud reality. Far from being snobby Lastly, the organization meets several times a year for drives to and exclusive, the organization is a place to share and learn, a place Mount Charleston, the Valley of Fire and other scenic locales. to express passion and discover the thrills and joys of life. After all, Ferrari’s are meant to be driven. Despite his quiet life, one has to believe that Enzo would Members even can take part in Track Days at Spring Mountain be proud. Motorsports Ranch, where they can drive their own cars and even

7300 WEST SAHARA AVE, LAS VEGAS, NV 89117 | 702.364.2700 | WWW.FJIMPORTS.COM 68 NOVEMBER 2012 SPIRITS

Designer digestifs Sirio’s housemade cellos Please the Palate by jim begley, photos by sabin orr

Most cultures lay claim to their own digestifs—liqueurs served at the end of a meal to purportedly aid digestion. Grecians τελος with ouzo, Germans beenden with Jägermeister, while Frenchmen finir with a multitude of drinks, including Calva- dos, Cognac and Armagnac. Italians, too, imbibe in a variety of amaro (bitters), including Fernet-Branca and Amaro Averna, along with what is probably the most widely encountered Italian digestif in the United States— limoncello. While limoncello is common on Italian restaurant drink lists, Sirio’s collection of cellos is decidedly uncommon.

Executive Chef Vincenzo Scarmiglia is producing not only his own housemade limoncello but also a variety of other seasonal cellos unlike anywhere else in the Aria Resort & Casino outpost of the Maccioni family empire. Scarmiglia’s exposure to limoncello dates back to his time as a younger cook. The current recipe was derived from the one served in his aunt’s restaurant in Porto Ercole, Italy, where he worked early in his career. The recipe remained a favorite of his after he immigrated to the Untied States, but further attempts stateside to replicate the family flavors were not successful. “Her recipe didn’t work out as well, because the ingredients are quite different from those in Italy,” notes Scarmiglia. “Lemons are smaller. Alcohol is not the same. The alcohol we have in Eu- rope is from beets, while here we use corn-based liquor. Frankly, it wasn’t that good.” Once he was at the helm of Bellagio’s Circo, Scarmiglia success- fully revisited the recipe. Varying the cello composition a multitude of times with the skill of a chemist, his persistence was rewarded with a drink that he thought ”turned out pretty good.” But it wasn’t until he opened Sirio at Aria that the enterprising bar staff there insisted he experiment with other flavors, leading to today’s cello flights. Early trial flavors ran the gamut, including tomato, cucumber, roasted red pepper, coconut “and all things citrus.” While results varied, licorice was the most disappointing.

70 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 71 SPIRITS

“Usually whenever I change the menu, I try to stay with as many seasonal ingredients as possible.”

“It took me a long time to get the licorice roots; it took about Current summer experiments include melon and tropical fruit a month to find them. After all that, I thought the licorice cello consisting of pineapple, mango, passion fruit and banana, while would work really well, since I like Sambuca, but it didn’t. It just a recent cello lineup included lemon, tangerine, mixed berry, wasn’t good at all,” Scarmiglia recalls. cocoa nib and black truffle. They are available individually or in flights of either three or five from the Valley’s—and maybe the Conversely, he also was surprised by the flavor that worked ex- country’s—only cello tasting menu. ceedingly well. “In the fall, I’m going to try almonds, walnuts and even pome- “Black truffle is, by far and away, the most surprising ingredient. granates from my own backyard,” says Scarmiglia. “It’s just the Truffles are 90 percent water; when there’s too much water, the beginning, as it’s now become a challenge between me and my flavors are diluted and disappear in the alcohol. However, the sommelier!” black truffle cello just works and works well. I don’t know of anyone else that’s doing it, either.” Scarmiglia also plans to revisit another family recipe. “My mother also used to make one with cream—a creamy li- Scarmiglia approaches his cellos in a manner similar to his menu. moncello—but, unfortunately, I lost the recipe. I remember you But because the black truffle cello is his favorite, it remains a needed to keep it in the freezer because of the cream compo- constant on the menu to this very day. nent, but it was really good. I haven’t tried to re-create it yet, “Usually whenever I change the menu, I try to stay with as many but I will.” seasonal ingredients as possible. [With cellos] I want to use sea- Here’s hoping the experimental success continues. sonal fruits and vegetables, so I’ll just venture into the walk-in and see what’s available.”

72 NOVEMBER 2012 WELL-BEING

Savory spa treatments Fall back into relaxation this Season by marisa finetti

High in the mountains, the aspens are just starting to trans- form. A tinge of yellow and deep orange hues edge the leaves of the trees. Fall is a wonderful season because it deeply affects our senses and brings us closer to nature. It’s also a time of change and, naturally, the season stimulates our most basic senses and desire to nurture our bodies and souls with vitality, spirituality and warmth. Our bodies are mindful of adapting to new seasons to reduce the stress the changes can bring to our bodies. Spas modify their offerings by customizing treatments, utilizing rich colors, alter- ing hydration rituals and incorporating new sounds and visual stimulation to provide us with a nurturing environment and a respite from the approaching cooler weather. The scents of autumn are alluring, seductive and make us yearn for cozy comforts. Warm cocoa is synonymous with cool weather delights, and the Ginger Cocoa Body Contour at MGM Grand Spa embraces its finest qualities. The 75-minute treatment is personalized to aide against fatty deposits, reduce the appearance of cellulite and increase firmness in the skin. This dual-action treatment aims to maintain and restore a harmoni- ous figure, just in time for holiday parties!

74 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 75 WELL-BEING

We’re about to rock your practice to the core. With one click, we can bring it to 30 million desktops

It is very important to nurture the inside of our bodies by staying hydrated during the fall and winter seasons. Sipping soothing teas and increasing the amount of water consumed daily en- hance our complexion, relieve dry skin and promote energy. Aquae Sulis Spa inside JW Marriott Resort offers a super-hydrating treatment just for the face. The 50-minute Porefection Pumpkin Facial is packed with anti-inflammatory properties of pumpkin that lowers the skin’s stress levels that can cause skin irritation. Savor the seasonal change and emerge with rejuvenat- ed, soft, glowing skin. While at Aquae Sulis, dip into the Roman pools to experience the restorative power of water. Fall is the time to feel invigorated. This charge prepares the body and mind for all the festivities to come during the holidays. Rejuvenate your spirit at Drift Spa at Palms Place with Red Flower’s Lemon Coffee Blossom Olive Stone Scrub. Then, surrender to a soothing soak in the Moroccan Mint Tea Silt Puri- fier, as it prepares the body to receive a finishing touch of silken hydration from Cardamom Amber Oil and Tangerine Fig Butter. As the vineyards in California already have been harvested this season, it’s time to raise a glass to celebrate the power of grape seeds. Straight from vineyards soaked in life-giving sunshine, nourishing grape seed body oil revitalizes and rehydrates the skin. Canyon Ranch SpaClub’s Cabernet Grape Seed Oil Mas- sage offers the highest-quality oil, which contains concentra- tions of vitamins C, D, E and beta-carotene and is both para- ben- and cruelty-free. The Spa at Trump was founded on the commitment to custom- ize each guest’s experience according to one of five personal intentions: calm, balance, purify, heal and revitalize. Whichever intention you have this fall, The Spa at Trump offers limited- time spa treatment specials designed to introduce guests to new ways of fulfilling these intentions through personalized service and pampering. To usher in the season, the spa also offers a luxurious pedicure that starts with a pumpkin detoxifying mini soak, followed by an exhilarating vanilla sugar scrub to promote luminous skin. The experience ends with a caramel hydrating clay foot mask to purify the pores, followed by a rejuvenating vanilla body lotion. From classic treatments to pumpkin-infused treatments, there are plenty of reasons to visit the spa this fall and winter. Warm up to the feeling of total body and spirit rejuvenation and em- brace the change of the season.

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A worldwide platform for health and wellness providers. 5565 S. Decatur Suite 101 | Las Vegas, Nevada 89118 | 702.706.6949 (p) 76 NOVEMBER 2012 GOOD DEEDS

Perfecting philanthropy by miles dickson

How do I know what organization to give to? By far, this is the question I get asked most frequently by clients and cocktail company alike; it also happens to be one of the most difficult questions to answer. So given that it is now the busiest time of the year for local philanthropy—scores of galas, holiday giving, foundations closing their fiscal year’s grant cycle, etc.—a column about the recipients of these efforts feels appropriate. Within the professional philanthropy field, countless approaches and practices have been designed to guide philanthropists’ decisions. Some rigidly treat nonprofits like initial public offerings, while others seem to merely require warm Hallmark-like experiences. Of course, the best approach lies somewhere in between. But how should you determine your strategy for maximizing impact without spending countless hours in the weeds of audited DISH BENFITTING financials and site visits? THREE SQUARE Jim Collins, author of the acclaimed business tome Good to Great, SEPTEMBER suggests that nonprofits should not be judged by traditional busi- 2012 ness performance measurements, but instead by business charac- Miles Dickson is a principal with Moonridge Group Philanthropy Advisors where alongside partner Julie teristics that are often much harder to quantify. Collins posits that Murray, he guides individuals, foundations and cor- the best nonprofits are those that deliver on their social mission porations on their charitable giving efforts. with remarkable efficiency, make such a unique contribution that their absence would be nearly impossible to fill and can deliver exceptional results throughout a long period of time. These three criteria may seem difficult to judge, but taking just a few minutes to consider your instincts and assess the organization’s face value will yield results. Is the organization both excel- lent and exceptional, i.e., is the organization doing the absolute best possible job of addressing the relevant social mission? Is the organization’s programming so unique and pressing that without it a critical need will be unmet? If the answer to either question is no, examine the organization a little more thoroughly and be sure to reach out to its leadership to ask your important questions. Some remarkable organizations are present in our community and around the world that desperately need your generosity and leadership, so insist on excellence and exceptionalism.

send requests to be featured to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 78 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 79 INTERIOR DESIGN

beauty within Personalize your style, love your home by jill thompson

Living stylishly begins at home. After all, where we live is an ex- tension of who we are. What we do in our homes shapes our mood, affects our productivity and influences our outlook on life.

Stylish living doesn’t have to be labeled. Contemporary or traditional, formal or casual can coexist in the same home. Many people choose to live among beautiful furnishings, art and objects that have special meaning to them.

These items inspire creativity and give personal comfort and joy. In my favorite room of the house, for example, my biggest splurge sits next to a bargain buy; sentimental value is always more important than monetary cost.

Think of things that bring you joy in your home. Personalize your abode with items that reflect your lifestyle. And entertain often. SUPERHERO Nothing forces us to look at our home with a critical eye like BALL knowing others will be looking, too. Fall is the perfect time for this. SEPTEMBER 2012 Guests’ first impression starts at the entry of your home, and carefully chosen objects set the tone for greater things to be dis- covered. Such details as having chandeliers with dimmers allow candlelight to be appreciated, and nestling votives around fresh orchids creates interesting shadows of the blooms, as the candlelight reflects off the flowers’ large, glossy leaves.

Choose furnishings that look inviting. People tend to use inviting rooms, and the more a room is used, the more beautiful it becomes. Ottomans provide extra seating and are easy to pull up to join in a great story.

Light your fireplace. Cut fresh branches of fall leaves and put in vases. Set out a candy dish. And don’t forget to help set the mood with some great background music, too.

Prioritize spending on things for your home that cultivate experiences. Most clients are much closer than they think they are to getting it right. The most important part is to have fun with it. Buy pieces that speak to you. Once completed, you should be able to walk through your house, take it all in and smile at the home you’ve created.

After all, the true meaning of life is to live it!

send requests to be featured to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 80 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 81 STYLE MATTERS

fashion Forecast Transitioning keeps it fresh by farid matraki, photo by jerry metellus

It seems like we only have two seasons here in Las Vegas: hot and cold. While East Coasters are putting away their sandals and bath- ing suits in September, Las Vegas residents can still spend their weekends dancing to electronic music at a Strip resort’s day club well into October.

While the transition comes a little later for us, the move from hot to cold happens in a matter of days, sometimes even hours. To prepare, it’s recommended to always have a lighter jacket nearby, so you are not caught off-guard. You can never go wrong with cashmere, and designer Brunello Cucinelli mas- terfully creates casual outerwear that is functional, yet elegant, using this fabric.

Cucinelli is also known for layering, so when the weather SUNRISE switches from cold to colder, complete the look with a great FOUNDATION sweater, boots and scarf. That’s probably the best part about SEPTEMBER fall, being able to work a scarf back into your wardrobe. 2012

Men always should have a sport coat in their car or office. Not only does this help with the unexpected temperatures, but it’s an easy solution to dress up your attire should you have an event or meeting pop up for which you aren’t attired properly.

Woman should look into having a Donna Karan cozy on hand at all times. The variety of styles and textures that this popular piece comes in will solve all temperature problems and yet also make you look stylish.

So while we will be saying goodbye to our Eres swimsuits and seeing less Las Vegas skin, we should enjoy our suede and wool while it lasts, because before we know it, it’ll be hot again.

send requests to be featured to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 82 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 83 REAL ESTATE

BEYOND THE LULL City sees increased activity by florence shapiro

Although the market was quiet for about the 45 days between mid-August and the end of September, real estate activity has been pick- ing up since the beginning of October. With lots of showings occurring and even a sale or two, it’s a sign that things are starting to happen again in Las Vegas, which is very exciting.

A few reasons that possibly can be attributed for the lull the market experienced a couple months back are the Labor Day holiday, school starting back up and the heavy rains and flash flooding we had; but no one really knows for certain.

One of the things that is important to homebuyers right now is loca- tion; families with children want to be close—within 15 to 20 minutes away—to the schools their children will be attending. A lot of home- DISCOVERY buyers also want to purchase within a guard-gated community. And FANTASY BALL while some others desire to be located alongside a golf course, most buyers do not consider it essential. OCTOBER 2012 Oftentimes, within the past six months to a year, especially with out- of-state homebuyers, they want to purchase homes that are furnished. They want to bring their suitcases and toothbrushes and move into the house. Also, furnishing a home is expensive, and in a lot of cases, the homebuyers just don’t want to deal with it.

Staging a property that is for sale is very important, because it allows the buyers to see what the home looks like when furnished. And, if they see the perfect setup for them, they just might decide they want to purchase it as is.

So many buyers now put an offer on the house and then make an offer for the furnishings, which is very important to keep separate. If not kept as separate transactions, it could create a problem with the appraisal. Because furniture is not real estate, the appraisers automati- cally will deduct the cost from the price of the home.

Another trend currently talked about in the real estate industry is downsizing, and buyers are also looking for homes with a downstairs master bedroom or an elevator.

And, of course, price is still important to homebuyers as well, but not as important as it once was. Homebuyers understand that Las Vegas has undergone a lot of short sales, so if they find a house that is a unique, quality home, they will pay more to make it their own.

send requests to be featured to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 84 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 85 THE WALL

ART BASEL Turning Miami Beach into a Cultural H aute Spot by leslie frisbee

Each December, for the past 11 years, a who’s who of the art world descends upon Miami Beach for one of the most prestigious modern and contemporary art shows in the U.S., Art Basel Miami Beach. An offspring of the Swiss-originated Art Basel (commonly referred to as the “Olympics of the art world”), which takes place each June in Basel, Switzerland, Art Basel Miami Beach has helped turn the spring break destination into a year-round cultural haute spot. The city’s museums are being revitalized and its private spaces for art have become more zealous. Major buildings by Frank Gehry, Herzog & de Meuron and Zaha Hadid have either been commissioned or completed; and the Wynwood Arts District is flush with cutting-edge galleries, artist studios and collections, including the Rubell Family Collection. This year more than 260 of the most prominent galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa are ex- pected to be spread out across the city, showcasing works by more than 2,000 artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Art ranging from blue-chip post-war masters worth tens of mil- lions of dollars to works by young and emerging artists will be on display. The show, which runs Dec. 6-9, will also boast outdoor venues, sculptures and Art Video Night. If, by chance, you’ll be in the neighborhood, Diamond Cake contributor and art consultant, Michele Quinn has assembled an itin- erary of must-see events for this year’s Art Basel Miami Beach. ...

Courtney Smith & Iván Navarro Street Lamp, 2011 Paul Kasmin Gallery 86 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 87 THE WALL

Enoc Perez James Cohan Gallery Fontainebleau, Miami New York Polígrafa Obra Gráfica DAY ONE: DAY TWO: The best way to maximize your time is to get a hold of a “VIP” Bright and early, head off to the Rubell Collection, then the Mar- VIP Pass—there are various levels of VIP passes and times of guiles Collection; both are prominent American collecting fami- entry. The most efficient use of time is to arrive in Miami on lies that have set the bar in creating private exhibition spaces for Tuesday, so you can be fresh and rested on Wednesday morn- their personal collections. They have special early viewing hours, ing. The first entry, which is by invitation only, is at 11 a.m. (Be so people can enjoy the work before the fair opens at noon. warned, recent years and market demands have created a feeding Quickly return to the main fair, just in case you feel like you have frenzy at the door, with millionaires and billionaires pushing to missed something, or if you have to go back to purchase that be the first in with first eyes on the inventory; it can get ugly.) piece you could not stop thinking about all evening! A more leisurely approach would be to wait an hour, let the Don’t forget to pay attention to the topical subdivisions of the craziness subside, then stroll in at noon. At that point, secure main fair, including younger artist installations at Art Nova lo- a map from the VIP desk and proceed walking each and every cated around the perimeter of the hall; Art Video and Art Kabi- aisle, until you can no longer see what is in front of you. Visual nett, curatorial concepts presented in separate delineated spaces overload can happen quickly. within the participating gallery booths; and Art Public, which turns Collins Park outside of the fair grounds into a public outdoor exhibition. Around 3 p.m., take a cab to the Design District and spend the next three hours perusing the museum-quality exhibitions of 20th- and 21st-century furniture, lighting and objets d’art (works of art).

88 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 89 THE WALL

Stephen Friedman Gallery London

DAY THREE: You have your choice of visiting a long list of additional fairs that have tagged along for the ride: Art Miami: Serves as a platform for the state of modern and contemporary art of the 20th and 21st centuries. NADA: The New Art Dealers Alliance features emerging art galleries from many countries. PULSE: Presents leading international galleries and artists showcasing the latest movements in contemporary art in powerful architectural environments. SCOPE: Has been long-established as the original incubator for emerging work. RED DOT: Features more than 50 international modern contemporary art dealers from around the world. INK Miami: Showcases notable publishers and dealers who exhibit new publications, projects and acquisitions by leading contemporary artists. In your free time, between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., Basel Miami offers countless parties, events, dining and entertainment; so if you don’t have time to sleep much, don’t worry, it will be over soon.

Art 41 Basel Miami takes place, Dec. 6-9, in Miami Beach, Fla. miamibeach.artbasel.com

empty walls crave great art.

90 NOVEMBER 2012 LEADERS LEADERS OF INDUSTRY OF INDUSTRY OCTOBER OCTOBER 2012 2012

send requests to be featured to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 92 NOVEMBER 2012 diamondcake 93 black tie reminder

November Las Vegas Natural History Museum | 20th Annual Dinosaur Ball | 11.10.12 Four Seasons Hotel Ballroom | lvnhm.org.

Opportunity Village | Camelot | 11.15.12 MGM Grand | opportunityvillage.org

Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation | 19th Annual Profiles of Courage Gala | 11.17.12 Bellagio Hotel & Casino | nvccf.org

The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson Educational Campus | 8th Annual In Pursuit of Excellence Gala | 11.17.12 The Venetian Hotel & Casino | adelsoncampus.org

Urban Chamber of Commerce | 2012 Annual Awards Gala | 11.17.12 The Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino | urbanchamber.org

DECember ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy | 5th Annual Wrangler Gold Buckle Gala | 12.3.12 South Point Hotel & Casino | prorodeohalloffame.com

Project Management Institute Southern Nevada Chapter | Holiday Gala | 12.14.12 The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas | pmi-snc.org

Nevada Arts Advocates | 14th Annual Gala | 12.14.12 Mirage Hotel & Casino | nvartsadvocates.org

Diamond CakeYou readers are invited to get upare off the couch, comeinvited.. out of the house and interact with each other and the advertisers through various event formats such as wine tastings, dinner parties, business and social mixers, art exhibits and auctions and more. Most if not all, will benefit various local philan- thropies. Email will be the primary invite method for these special events. To ensure you are invited to all upcoming events kindly subscribe to the email newsletter by visiting the Diamond Cake website or scan- ning the QR Code below. send requests to be listed to [email protected] | 702.202.4120 We look forward to seeing you in person soon. Diamond Cake.