Kila dances her dance just for Otto, her tri-colored wings spread wide, and she snaps at other gardeners who try to get between them. She'd even follow him all the way off the habitat onto the crowded sidewalks if Wildlife Habitat officials didn't keep a close eye on her. Heck, she'd probably follow him home if she could.

What is sweet about this crush Kila has on Otto is that Otto shows unguarded open affection for her. Without even pausing in what he's doing, he'll reach down and nuzzle the silky-smooth gray feathers of her neck, or pet her gently on the back. He doesn't even think about it - it's as automatic as petting any one of his three cats.

Of course, part of the reason he does this is to nudge her along because Kila has a tendency to get in the way, dogging at his heels until he can't take another step without tripping over her.

Someone else might just brush her rudely away, not caring if they ruffle her delicate feathers or not. Gonzales, who has worked at the Flamingo for six years wouldn't do that.

"I like her. She's the only one of all the animals who comes over and says hello. The flamingos don't pay attention to me at all." - Otto Gonzales

Robin Matos says Kila was imprinted at birth at Hilton Hawaiian Village - that is, the first thing she saw was a human face and so she will think forever that she, too, is a human. That's why the three year old bird is the only crane at the Flamingo, she was afraid of her own brother.

"She's terrified of other cranes. The truth is, she'd prefer to be out on the sidewalk with the people." - Robin Matos

Still, nobody is sure why Kila chose Otto out of 10 other gardeners to bond with - not Matos and certainly not Otto.

"I don't know. She just started following me around." He leans forward, a grin tugging at his rugged features "I swear to you, I never did anything wrong." - Otto Gonzales

Kila doesn't pine away when Otto can't be there. She just goes about the business being a crane. But when Otto is around, her devotion is so obvious - and endearing - that it attracts the attention of hotel visitors. That's how Matos became aware of this unusual friendship - she wondered why everybody was watching Kila and Otto.

Now she knows. When Otto is moving around the island, Kila never strays from his side - or his feet - or his legs. She'll nuzzle against his knee, she'll dart between his legs, she'll step on his feet.

Kila also tried her best to talk to Otto, but what comes out is a startling, foghorn-like honk, the loudest in the crane kingdom and Gonzales talks back.

"I'll say, Hi, how you doin'? Hey, what's up? And her head goes up." - Otto Gonzales

Just in case you don't know, the penguins, flamingos and Kila can be seen by visitors free of charge.

In February, 2000, Flamingo announced that 47 year old, Pennsylvania native, Gregg Weiler had taken the post of Vice President of Sales. Weiler was the second male lead dancer in Moulin Rouge before he went to the Las Vegas Hilton in 1981. He then spent 10 years as executive director of sales for the Reno Hilton. For the last two years, he served as sales director at the Las Vegas Hilton. In his spare time, he remodels houses.

"I never wanted to be a show business star, and after 10 years in the business, I'd danced enough. We already have the name and the reputation, now I want to raise the bar. I want the Flamingo to be the place to go for those meetings and conventions.
It's all about meeting people and finding out about the interesting groups they represent. There's an organization for just about any interest you can name. I love learning what they're all about, and then figuring out how to tailor a Flamingo-specific solution for their needs. It's like putting a fascinating puzzle together - and when it's all done, everybody walks away happy." - Gregg Weiler

In February of 2000, Flamingo showcased the four-man band Island Tyme, in the foyer of the Flamingo Room. Island Tyme consisted of founder Mark "Flipp" Flippen, Dario Cabellero, Harris Todman, and Darrell "D.J." Johnson. Island Tyme is known for its rhythmic brand of reggae, jazz, and calypso.

Also in February of 2000, comic Rip Taylor guest starred with the Great Radio City Spectacular.

In February, 2000, Darren Romeo was performing in the Flamingo Showroom and earned a standing ovation from the audience. In the audience was Siegfried, of Siegfried and Roy, who posed for pictures with Romeo after the show.

In March of 2000, legendary Buddy Greco, his Swinging Dance Band, and Leslie Anders appeared in the Flamingo Showroom bringing back the big band music. Fans counted on surprise celebrity guests "raiding" and visiting this show. Most recently was Tommy Smothers who showed up and displayed his yo-yo skills. The doors opened at 7:30pm and free dance lessons were offered to those who wanted to join in the fun. Cocktails were available and adding to the excitement was the fact that the show was broadcast live from 8:00 to 10:00pm, on radio station KJUL 103.4FM with on-air personality Frank LaSpina hosting the program.

Also in March of 2000, four Radio City Rockettes, Susan Henderson, Bridget Parker, Rachel Sellars-Montoya, and Marque Munday, appeared at the John R. Beatty Elementary School as part of the Nevada Reading Week. They took time to read aloud from "The Silver Slippers," a story of a little girl who wants to be a ballerina. These talented ladies had a hidden passion - they love to read. At home or at work, they read letters, cereal boxes, novels, history books, newspapers, biographies, and short and long stories. They wanted kids to read too so they took time out of their busy schedule to read to 1st through 4th graders, and talk to fifth graders about reading as well as their lives as dancers.

"I miss my little family, and I love kids. This gets me involved with them again, plus I love reading. I read a lot more novels growing up, now I read more about my profession and the people involved with dancing." - Rachel Sellars-Montoya

"I fell in love with English in high school. I have a three year old son, and I believe education is the key to everything in life - especially reading. I love reading and writing." - Marque Munday

"We read all the time. We read backstage before we do our show, we read between shows we're always reading, we read newspapers . . . it doesn't mater what you read." - Bridget Parker

Beginning in April, the Flamingo hosted a series of Wine Workshops at its Conrad's restaurant, conducted by international wine expert George Truby. Truby, editor of the Los Angeles Times' Savvy Diner and palate consultant to wine producers on three continents, began this unique wine program at Conrad's at 7:00pm on April 19, 2000, with an in-depth look (and tasting) at perhaps the most celebrated of all wines - Champagne. The workshops were one-night workshops on the major varietals - Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This initial program came to an end with the world's greatest dessert wines.

Truby is uniquely qualified to be hosting these original workshops, since he is also an original. A diplomat of the Wine & Spirits Education Trust of London, he founded the Wine Workshop in New York City and has written for Wineline, the Sydney Morning Herald, The National times, First Impressions International, Playboy, and Wine & Spirits. He also won the Prix du Lanson for excellence in journalism from Decanter Magazine in 1998.

George Truby Accepting Award Rowena Medlow from Decanter, Truby, and Barbara Cadnaw from Lanson

"We are indeed fortunate to have someone of Mr. Truby's reputation conducting this program. Along with his rare qualifications and vast experience, he brings an element of fun to his workshops. He has an excellent style and is much appreciated." Terje Torgersen - Vice President of Food and Beverage for the Flamingo.

"This program will cater to every level of interest and expertise, from the budding enthusiast to the trade professional - there is no place for elitism in wine. You are free to learn as much as you need to want to, and have fun doing it." - George Truby

Also scheduled were six-session French and Italian courses complete with certification. Individual wine regions of the world were highlighted in the weeks following those sessions.

Flamingo Las Vegas and Flamingo Laughlin created a signature character for a new line of childrens' clothing, toys, and accessories. The new line was debuted in June, 2000.

"I don't want to give too much away right now, but let me put it this way -- our windows alone are going to be show stoppers." - Mason Hiruo, Flamingo Retail Operations Director

Flamingo conducted a "Name the Flamingo" contest to all employees, and 125 entries were submitted. Lorraine Vono, a 53-year-old mother of two sons, who worked as a PBX operator for only a year and a half was the winner. The winning name, Phil Mingo, was chosen out of such names as Mo Pink, Legs Eleven, Knobby Knees, and The Pink Chicken. On April 5, 2000, Vono was having lunch with Las Vegas Communications Director Levette Taylor in the Employee Dining Room when Hiruo, and President Tony Santo, presented Vono with a $100 gift certificate, and her own Phil Mingo.

Mason Hiruo, "Phil Mingo", Lorraine Vono, & Tony Santo

May, 2000, had been a big month for Flamingo. First, representatives of the Veterans of Foreign Wars honored the Flamingo for installing a flagpole and flying the American flag on its property. Pictured are Jim Parsons, State Junior Vice Commander of the VFW of Nevada, and Flamingo Refrigeration Engineer, Flamingo Hotel President Anthony F. Santo, and Property Operations Director Gary Cox.

The flagpole is located at the end of the property. Flamingo Engineer Carl Bittner was the one who started it all by placing a note in the Employee Suggestion Box.

Second, Tommy Tune took time off from his EFX Show at the MGM to catch Darren Romeo's show, and agreed to pose for pictures.

"He's wonderful. He's going to be very famous someday soon." - Tommy Tune, when asked what he thought about Romeo

Third, the Friday Seafood Spectacular at the Paradise Garden Buffet was such a success that it began serving seven days a week from 11:30am to 11:00pm at a cost of $13.99 plus tax. Breakfast is still being served from 6:00am to 11:30pm for $7.75 plus tax. The Flamingo Room stopped serving breakfast, with dinner being served from 4:30 to 11:00pm. The Pool and Grille started serving a continental breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30am, for $6.25 plus tax, and lunch from 11:00am to 4:00pm.

On February 1, 1995, Susan Anton opened The Great Radio City Spectacular. Anton again starred in the show starting June 17, 2000, and continued to appear until the show closed permanently on July 31, 2000. Also joining the cast for the last month of performances was comedic juggler Nino Frediani.

In June, 2000, Flamingo announced the opening of its Summer Breeze Cafe, serving Caribbean-styled food, which is located between the Garden Wedding Chapel and the pool. The Cafe replaced the Pool Grille. The menu consists of such dishes as shrimp fritters in coconut sauce, wild mushroom ravioli with a port wine demi glace, lobster bisque citronelle (lobster brother with lobster meat and lemon segments), grilled blackened salmon in a spicy dill remouladen sauce, and house specialty crab cakes served with choron sauce. Some desserts are Cherries Jubilee and Crepes Suzette.

Also in June of 2000, Darren Romeo ended his tenure at the Flamingo. Joining the Flamingo in Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre was comedy hypnotist Justin Tranz in the R-rated "HIP-NOSIS: The Funniest Show on The Strip." Tranz was also appearing at Flamingo's sister, O'Sheas.

In June 2000, the Sunset Ballroom showcased Jim Yester, Bruce Belland and David Somerville, who were the lead singers for The Association (Cherish, Windy, and Along Comes Mary), The Four Preps (26 Miles and Down by the Station), and The Diamonds (Little Darlin, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, and Silhouettes); and The Dells with Angels Sessions. In July, Foreigner (Hot Blooded, I Want to Know What Love Is, and Feels Like the First Time), who sold more than 50 million albums world-wide was showcased. In August, Damon Wayans, one of stars of In Living Color, was showcased.

Regarding Foreigner, Lou Gramm and Mick Jones clicked immediately as collaborators back in 1976 with the debut of the driving Cold As Ice. With their self-titled debut album in 1977, they went on to cross the quadruple platinum sales mark and kept it up with Feels Like the First Time, Hot Blooded, and All Right Now. In 1984, they released I Want to Know What Love Is.

By 1989, there was in-house feuding and Gramm left the band. But in 1992, in the middle of the Los Angeles riots, the two met again to mend fences and to resurrect the original Foreigner.

In 1997, Gramm was diagnosed with a brain tumor. After successful removal of the non-cancerous - but still life-threatening growth, Foreigner entered the music world again.

July 2-7, 2000, Flamingo started a new tradition of the First Annual Caribbean Carnival week. Rum stations, small samples of Caribbean delights and music from Henry Rupert Steel Band and Caribbean Connection turned Flamingo's lower pool area into a Caribbean island from 6:00-10:00pm. Included were hot lava performers, Caribbean dancers, limbo and hula hoop dancers, fire eaters, and stilt walkers. Carnival beads were given out as souvenirs.

On August 14, 2000, Flamingo opened a new old show Bottoms Up starring Breck Wall, David Harris, Sue Motsinger, and featuring Billy Smith. Also in the show are Vanessa McCann, Clint O'Ray, Trent Sherrell, Dawn Page, Heidi Farbairn, and Kristi King. The show was staged and directed by Breck Wall, who also produces Bottoms Up along with Patrick Maes. The show was choreographed by Michael Darrin, Missy Cochran, and Kyla Quintero. Tickets were $12.95 plus tax. This show is the only topless afternoon show in the city.

Bottoms Up has been awarded an unprecedented 34 Best Show of the Year awards for its slick and fast-paced blend of bawdy one-liners, sexy young women, and provocative dancing. Still, while undeniably sexy Bottoms Up has kept its look fresh since 1959, with some of the best writing around, show goers will have to go again to pick up the lines they missed because they were laughing at a prior joke.

"We change it every day. If something happens that day that we can fit into the show, we will. Even though it's basically a Vaudevillian, slapstick kind of show, it still looks and sounds new. I have fun. I enjoy what I'm doing. I love working with our stagehands, our musicians, our technical people. I don't have a family, so to me, all of these people become family.
I love this place (Flamingo). We played here years ago - 1973, 1974, something like that. It's a wonderful showroom, and I worked with the hotel President, Tony Santo, in Reno. So this is my old new home - and I really and truly love it." - Breck Wall

Bottoms Up opened at the Castaways in 1963, and its format has changed little since those days because contemporary humor, fast one-liners and pratfalls . . not to mention beautiful women . . . never go out of style

Flamingo employees decided to spruce up their newly remodeled employee cafeteria called Bugsy's Backroom Cafe with their own artwork. Greg Pickrel changed careers from commercial artist to banquet server at the Flamingo. He donated his expertise to create a 72 foot long acrylic mural of the Flamingo's lush and exotic Wildlife Habitat area, broken up into nine panels to hang in the Cafe. Pickrel graduated from the Art Center of School of Design in Pasadena and 32 years ago changed careers. He worked on the mural on his days off or in his spare time.

"I don't think I left my art behind. I have the mural. I'm thinking of starting a side business in art, but even so, when I set up buffets, or table displays . . . there's a kind of art in that, or at least there can be, if you're given the freedom and resources to do it. And I am. I'm very grateful to my bosses for giving me the free reign to do that kind of displays that blow away customers." - Greg Pickrel

Two other employees helped him with his paintings - Locksmith Les Russell, and Tournament Clerk, Mary Allison. Russell freely admits to being totally incapable of relaxing. Allison, a widow with two granddaughters living with her, became fascinated with art when she was in the sixth grade and a teacher showed them how to draw a bottle.

"I'm a compulsive thinker. This keeps me from thinking. I work the swing shift and when I get up, I'm ready to go somewhere. The hardest part for me is finding enough time to do it. The best part is it's killing time. It keeps me from wondering and worrying. I can't stand still." - Les Russell

"When I saw her bring a bottle - a bottle! to life with just a blank piece of paper and a few tools, I thought that was the most wonderful thing I've ever seen. I come in here, and sit down, and I don't think about my other problems." - Mary Allison

Showcased on September 29 and 30, 2000, was Eddie Money whose hits included Two Tickets to Paradise, Baby Hold On, Take Me Home Tonight, and Think I'm In Love. When Money was asked what it feels like to step onto a stage today, 25 years after he began his career: "I still enjoy this as much as I did 20 years ago." Money had recorded a new CD "Ready Eddie" featuring all new material. Two of the songs - Ready to Rock and Broken Down Chevy pay homage to his rock-and-roll roots. Tickets were $25 and $37.50 plus tax.

"You know, a lot of what's on this record comes straight from the heart and I see it in the crowd too. That's why it's so rewarding to me." - Eddie Money

In late September of 2000, Flamingo opened her new show Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus inspired by Dr. John Gray's best-selling book, starring Janien Masse.

"I always loved music. I started taking dancing lessons at five years old. I knew I had rhythm. But when my mother would coax me to sing Mary Had A Little Lamb, I'd run away and cry. I was very, very shy. Hard to believe, I know, but I was shy. It is so rare and wonderful to be a part of an original piece. I'm creating a role that others are going to follow - that's incredible in itself. It's a little scary when you think about taking a role like this, wondering if it's going to work. Every day before I go on stage, I just make the sign of the cross and tell everybody to have fun." - Janien Masse

Rita Abrams wrote all 21 sketches and songs in the musical. The leading man as well as Masse's real-life best friend is Mark W. Smith. Also in the show is Alrene Robertson Ballard, Gerry Burkhardt, Wendy Talley, Rick Pessagno, Jenny Giocomo, Erick R. Walck, Jennifer Mrozik, and Kevin Sherrell. The show is produced by John Gray's Mars Venus & Sacramento International Productions and directed and choreographed by David Bell. Tickets are $36, $44, and $52, plus tax and service charges

Flamingo celebrated Halloween 2000 with an old fashioned pumpkin carving contest at the Lagoon Pool area. This contest was the idea of Vice President of Food & Beverage Terje Torgersen. The professional judges represented the American Culinary Federation and the public voting for their People's Choice award. The contest was co-sponsored by Pepsi Cola, Eagle Vineyards, Nevada Liquor, and Cobrand and Miller.

Second prize winner in both the People's Choice Award and Professional Judges' category was Stardust Hotel Restaurant Chef Rafael Mares. He went home with a magnum of champagne and a portable CD-stereo. His pumpkin showed carved flames, skulls, and screaming faces and admitted he'd had nightmares all week.

"I had a dream where I saw the design, and then I had nightmares all week. Then, every time I saw a pumpkin, I got all nervous and stuff. Just the professional pressure, I guess." - Chef Mares

First place winner in both categories was Las Vegas Hilton Sous Chef Marvin Villarin, who won a magnum of champagne and a color TV. He turned two pumpkins into the movie characters Ghoulies with toothpicks sticking out all over their faces and blinking eyeballs.

Third place went to Flamingo's own Kitchen Artist, Anthony Soriano, who put his lifelong carving skills to work and wound up with wonderfully detailed dragons chasing each other around the sides of his pumpkin.

Flamingo's Executive Steward Gary Gillihan took home first prize in the Employees and Guests category after fashioning a ferociously wrinkled face on his pumpkin, and Bill and Anna Boychak from Pennsylvania's Shenandoah Valley won second prize; and Las Vegan Nancy McKiski took home second place.

"I worked with the contours of the pumpkins. I modeled it after Mr. Torgersen, except I put hair on it." - Gary Gillihan.

On November 28, 2000, a new multi-million show Bill Acosta: Lasting Impressions opened with 12 topless dancers backing up Acosta along with the Joey Singer Orchestra. Bill Acosta was last seen at the Luxor.

For the auditions of the 12 topless classically trained dancers, Producer Jeanne Bavaro was looking for stunning attractive women who donned their tap shoes and took to the stage topless. Choreographer Jay Fagan was also there. When he wasn't tapping himself at blinding speeds, he would hold out his pants legs as if they were pantaloons, demonstrate the step, and sing out: "Old MacDonald had a farm . . . and on this farm he had a tap . . .." At one point, when the group of dancers had been whittled to 12 and they were lined up across the stark stage with nervous smiles and perspiration he quipped, "Don't smile! This isn't fun!"

For some, perhaps, it wasn't and yet when they were cut, they handled it with grace and style. One pretty brunette who Bottoms Up producer Beck Wall called "an amazing dancer" just couldn't master the tap - and in Acosta's show there is a tribute to Sammy Davis, Jr. "I've got to take more tap lessons," she said with an easy smile and left.

Then there came a point when the auditions concentrated on the topless aspect of the show - and the women had to decide if they wanted to go ahead. One woman opted out. Another hesitated only briefly.

Former Californian Dorene Herod later said she got through it by pretending she was wearing a top. "I thought, I'm an actress, I'm just going to act," she said with a smile. Summer Rich, who has been dancing since she was only 4 years old and started working in a production show at 15, agrees it's not easy for a dancer to take that top off, no matter what the quality of the show.

"Oh yeah, it's hard to move from dancer to showgirl. I mean, I've done it, I can do it, but I'm not a showgirl. I'm a dancer. When I was up there topless, I knew Jeanne would make me feel and look beautiful but my heart was beating very, very fast." - Summer Rich

"Part of my heart hurt for them. Part of me was glad it wasn't me up there. I feel sorry for these thoroughly talented, thoroughly trained, extremely well rehearsed dancers who must appear topless. Dancers and showgirls don't usually go together. It must be a horrendous dilemma for them." - Jeanne Bavaro

Lisa McKenzie, 24, was one of those whose confidence and enthusiasm fairly exploded out of her while she was on stage. Part of that is because she has performed in the Acosta show before, but part of it is just that she has a lot of fun on stage.

"It is fun, especially the tap dancing, it's a real challenge. I worked very hard at learning tap and there just isn't much chance to use it. You just have to believe you can do it." - Lisa McKenzie

For Thanksgiving and Christmas 2000, the Paradise Garden Buffet offered fresh roasted turkey breast with two kinds of dressing; yams with marshmallows as well as mashed potatoes; roasted chicken drumstick, grilled pork chops with peppercorn sauce, roasted bourbon ham, and roast beef with Yorkshire pudding for $18.99. There was also baked salmon with lobster sauce, fried chicken, pasta, and sole with lemon butter for those who do not want a traditional holiday meal. For $59 per person, Conrad's served Caesars salad with garlic bread croutons and fresh Parmesan cheese and fresh turkey roasted the old-fashioned way, served with homemade giblet gravy, roasted vegetables and glazed fresh yams. Deserts included apple strudel with warm vanilla sauce, pumpkin ice cream profitterole with chocolate rum sauce, and miniature pecan pie with creamy caramel sauce, along with coffee and petit fours.

In December, 2000, Flamingo entertainers Breck Wall and Bill Acosta went wild when they "fought" over gifts under the casino's 20-foot Christmas tree to patrons' delight. In addition, the cast from Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, had a blast when they found Flamingo's holiday decorations and decided to play around.

On December 25, 2000, Flamingo executives and employees arranged to share part of the day at The Shade Tree Shelter for homeless and abused women and children. They went to the shelter dispensing a complete Christmas dinner as well as gifts for both the women and children.

Even employees who couldn't make it to the shelter that day, including the cast of Men Are From Mars, bought and wrapped toys and other gifts to donate. Halterman brought his whole family to help, along with 30 Christmas stockings his little girl's Church Group made.

The pictures depict Vice President of Finance and Administration Lou Capone, helping dish out dinner for the shelter's residents. His daughter, Celina, tucked underneath his arms, helped out as did Garden Chapel Manager Kris LaBuda, John Santo, son of President Tony Santo, John Matera, husband of Catering Coordinator Jeannie Matera, Security Officer Karl Halterman (background), Santo's other son Anthony Jr. , Christopher, the little boy with his face half hidden is a Shelter resident who wanted to help serving. The second picture depicts a toddler staring in wonder at the doll she received on Christmas.

In addition to those pictures, Pat Thomas, Assistant of Director Travel and Leisure Sales, brought her family and helped with the trash detail, David J. Totaro, Vice President and Chief Brand Officer with Park Place Entertainment, and his wife Amanda played Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Also in December, 2000, Centennial High School mascot Blu went to the Flamingo to see Bottoms Up. Blu became a hero after he was dognapped and abused by students and staff from a rival school. After the show, Blue was awarded a Survivor's Award from star Breck Wall. In the picture is Co-producer and Public Relations Specialist Dick Feeney, Crystal and Tiffany Clark, daughter of Sue & Howard Clark, Blu's owners, and Breck Wall.

In 2000, Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre showcased Forever Plaid.

The Flamingo showcased in 2000, Bill Acosta: Lasting Impressions (began 11/28), America (12/29-30), Bottoms Up (began 8/14), Foreigner (7/00), The Great Radio City Spectacular (ended 7/00), Eddie Money (9/29-30), Damon Wayan (8/00), Darren Romeo (ending 6/00), Justin Tarnz (began 6/0), and Jim Yester from the Association, Bruce Belland from The Four Preps, and David Somerville from the Diamonds, and The Dells with Angels Sessions (6/00).

In February of 2001, I was able to get some color photographs of the mural in the employees lounge.

Forever Plaid ended its successful six year run on February 23, 2001. Taking its place in the 200 seat Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre on March 20, 2001, was Second City who made their first appearance in Las Vegas at the third lady. Second City's alumni include Alan Alda, Alan Arkin, Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, John Candy, Chris Farley, Barbara Harris, Robert Klein, Bill Murray, Mike Myers, Gilda Radner, Joan Rivers, George Segal, Martin Short, Jerry Stiller, Ryan Stiles, Betty Thomas, George Wendt, and Fred Willard. Hotel officials said they were confident it will blow away audiences. Second City was scheduled to perform 75-minute shows at 7:00 and 10:00pm. The cast included both new talent and the alumni of other Second City companies in Chicago, Toronto and Detroit.

The show features classic Second City sketches and songs, with a healthy dose of the trademark improvisation that has made it an icon in its field.

Second City has played all over the world since it began in a tiny theatre in Chicago in 1959, but one reason for its continued success wherever it lands is its attention to detail. Its performers take the time and effort to absorb the flavors of the city it's playing in so residents feel like the show was written especially for them, because, in fact, it is.

"We are extremely proud to bring a comedy show of this caliber to the Flamingo Las Vegas" - Randy Sears, Marketing VP

Cast members are willing to go in whatever direction the audience wants them to go.

The director of the show is Mike Napier, who has won awards for his directing at The Second City in Chicago as well as receiving an Obie Award in New York, for his work on One Woman Shoe, a play written by author and National Public Radio monologist David Sedaris. A co-founder of Chicago's Annoyance Theatre, Napier also directed the Comedy Central series Exit 57 as well as the independent film Fatty Drives the Bus.

"We're always working at the top of our intelligence. We're not going to use sexual material just for the sake of trying to project an adult image." - Mick Napier, Second City Director

The opening was a smash with a spelling bee for fourth graders taking on a whole new dimension when conducted by an admirer of the Marquis de Sade, and a driver's education instructor teaches real-world driving skills - like how to apply make-up and eat a McDonald's Happy Mean while driving. Meanwhile master illusionists Leopold and Ray made live flamingos disappear all the while vigorously asserting their heterosexuality.

Like Forever Plaid, Second City's props are minimal - six chairs and a straightjacket. The cast included Jean Augustyn, Dan Bakkedahl, Jennifer Estlin, Mary Pat Farrell, Sarah Gee, Mike Lukas, Seamus McCarthy, Jason Sudeikis, and Marc Warzecha.

"There's nothing else like this in town. It truly is an original. This isn't one of those 'spectacle" shows with disappearing tigers, or ships, or dragons. We don't need lavish backdrops or props. All we need - all we have - is our craft. Our comedic craft. We don't make fun of our audience. We might satirize gaming but we wouldn't ridicule gamblers - and even in the audience participation part of the show, we don't make them the butt of our jokes. We make stars of them. They become part of our show." - Kelly Leonard, Second City producer since 1992.

In addition, The Second City Training Center - Las Vegas, has begun classes for its first term. Formalized in the mid 1980's, The Second City Training Center is a natural outgrowth of a rich education heritage. Based on the work of Viola Spolin, Second City scholastic explorations have advanced the disciplines of acting and comedy. For more information, contact Frances Callier or Cynthia Buchanan at 888-783-9285. The Las Vegas edition of The Second City will be overseen by a new partnership between The Second City and Jam Theatricals.

In March of 2001, long time Strip star Breck Wall of Bottoms Up stated:

"We get together every day before each show and bounce ideas off each other. Some things we can work in, some things we can't, but every show is different. We haven't done anything with President Bush yet. We Will. He'll do something. It won't be long before he'll do something that will inspire us on stage.

There isn't anything about this show that I don't find enjoyable. I really mean that. We laugh ourselves silly in the dressing room and onstage, and if the audience is with us that day, it's great. If they're not, we may have to work harder but we still have a great time. Sometimes we laugh 'till we start crying.

Something always goes wrong. Always. It's the nature of the beast. The other day I was putting my arm in my trench coat and it went through the lining, it tore a hole or something, and I couldn't get it on. So I threw the coat down on the floor in my dressing room and went out in my underwear. The audience knew something was wrong - they thought it was a riot." - Breck Wall of Bottoms Up

In the spring of 2001, Flamingo had a new addition. When you least expect it, they dart out of the cool brush and onto the Flamingo's Events Lawn. A total of 14 pheasants have been added to the growing menagerie at the Wildlife Habitat. The addition of the seven species, including two silver pheasants, one named Flash and the other named Gordon, along with 22 Gambel's Quail and a new pond full of goldfish, brings the number of critters hopping, swimming and waddling around the resort to a whopping 1,033. In addition to the flamingos and penguins, there are two Guinea fowls, 2 Ibis, one Crown crane, eight swans, 25 ducks, 500 Koi, 30 turtles, and five parrots, plus 400 goldfish are swimming in the wings. Why include pheasants?

"Because they run loose - and they're pretty. They're beautiful.

I'm not surprised this has been such a success. People love it. You have wonderful animals in a gorgeous setting, in a city with gorgeous weather - what's not to like?

Still, bringing in the pheasants was an experiment. Everything here is pretty contained - but the pheasants aren't. They're not on an island or a pond . . . they pretty much wander where they want to, and I think that's one reason out guests enjoy them so much - that, and the fact that they're just such pretty birds.

All the pheasants are males except for one pair of Impeyans. Too many females, Matos points out delicately, would lead to fighting among the males for the females' attention. As it is, Matos says, the silver pheasant name Gordon is pretty bossy and tries to throw his feathers around - until the quail come around.

For some reason, the smaller, brown birds don't much care for Gordon and have been known to chase him relentlessly until he gives up and seeks shelter in the brush. The whistling ducks aren't too shy, either - and they're very tiny, perhaps carrying around their own version of a Napoleon complex.

They're too aggressive. They whistle to communicate with themselves and with the other birds - a bird version of Hey, what are you doing on my island? They're bossy. We call them The Gang. - Robin Matos

All of the pheasants are one-to-two years old. They're Chinese pheasants, native to the Asian country, but the Flamingo got its particular batch from a breeding farm in Pennsylvania. They've adapted well to the Las Vegas climate, although they're fed less during the hot summer months for their own good. "A fat bird is not a healthy bird" says Matos.

They tend to hang around in the brush around the Events lawn, even eluding Matos until she holds out a bowl of big, fat, delicious worms. "The brush is their comfort zone. But that's why we have bowls out there for them. They dart in and out all day." says Matos.

The pheasants aren't especially friendly birds either, but they're not fearful of the people who ring the fenced lawn and watch them. There is one who likes to stretch out on the edge of the lawn by the bushes, part of him plumped up on the concrete barrier, his beak tucked down and his eyes closed. Matos has been approached by several worried visitors about that particular bird. "He looks sick or dead but what he's really doing is sunbathing." - Robin Matos

In April of 2001, Dr. John Gray, who brought the planets together with his best-selling Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, made a special guest appearance following a performance of the show. With honest anecdotes and common sense advice tempered by humor, Gray charmed the audience.

"Martians aren't lazy, we just need a clear-cut job description." - Dr. John Gray

At the lecture was Thomas Cirrincoine of Rochester, NY, with the woman he loves, Rita Mullen. Asked what he wanted to change about his girl, Cirrincoine stated "That's a tough one . . I'm still too much in love although I wish she wouldn't play with my ears so much."

As of June, 2001, the resort's Italian restaurant Alta Villa was open for dinner seven nights a week, 5-11pm. The Villa has flagstone floors and trellised arbors. It is located in a secluded corner of the resort and Italian songs of love and celebration play softly in the background. Examples of the appetizers include bruchetta, steamed fresh mussels, grilled mozzarella skewers and garlic shrimp. Entrees include chicken Marsala, veal loin piccata and the Chef's special seafood risotto. Family dinners include chicken cacciatore, veal loin parmigiana and Italian sausages with peppers and onions. Those are served with fresh linguini or garlic mashed potatoes, marinara sauce and sauteed vegetables, with ice cream cassata and coffee for only $24.45 per person. Call (702) 733-3333 for reservations.

On June 13, 2001, Air Force Major William R. Tracy woke up wife Alicia in a Flamingo room at 3:00am, to tell her he'd just won $3 million. She didn't believe him - until she came down and saw all the people gathered around. Tracy, stationed in Japan, was in town to celebrate a friend's special occasion when he hit the jackpot with only $40 in the machine. What was his first thought when he won? "I figured she wouldn't be mad at me now for staying up late gambling," said Tracy. Neither wants their life to change - "It's great just the way it is," said Alicia.

July 27-28, 2001, I stayed at the Flamingo.

Click here for pictures of the view from my 24th floor room.

On September 14, 2001, at 7:45pm, Park Place turned off all non-essential exterior lights at its 20 U.S. casinos at sunset, and has invited its seven international casinos to do the same in observance of the national day of remembrance in honor of the victims of the terrorist strikes in New York and Washington on September 11, 2001. The lights remained off until sunrise.

On the Strip, lights were extinguished at Caesars Palace, Bally's Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas, Las Vegas Hilton and Flamingo Las Vegas.

"The lights of Las Vegas have always stood for happy times." It's important that they're off (tonight)." - Debbie Munch, Park Place spokeswoman

Park Place properties in Las Vegas have been displaying "One Nation Under God" on their digital marquees for several days.

On September 19, 2001 Park Entertainment stated the New York State's World Trade Center Disaster Relief Fund and the New York Firefighters 9-11 Relief Fund will each receive a $500,000 donation.

In 2001, the Main Showroom showcased Lasting Impressions with Bill Acosta; Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus ($28 to $52); and Bottoms Up ($12.95+tax). Until February, 2001, Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre showcased Forever Plaid ($24.95+tax), and Hip-Nosis with Justin Tranz. The Flamingo Room showcased The Great Emilio. In March, The Second City was showcased in Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre ($24.95+tax).

In April of 2002, Flamingo stated that she sits on approximately 27 acres of land at the prominent "Four Corners". The property features 3,518 rooms and suites, approximately 77,000 square feet of casino space, ten restaurants, approximately 66,000 square feet of meeting and convention area, 800 showroom seats, multiple pools and lagoons, tennis courts, a spa, health club, and a wedding chapel. The casino contains approximately 2,283 slot machines, and 89 table games.

Also in April of 2002, Bally's announced that she, MGM Grand and the non-profit corporation Las Vegas Monorail Company, has commenced a system expansion for their monorail. When completed in 2004, the monorail will connect Bally's, Flamingo, Las Vegas Hilton, and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

On May 28, 2002, Park Place named former judge, gaming administrator and casino executive Lorenzo Creighton as the new presidentof the Flamingo Las Vegas. Creighton, who is 49, formerly served as Park Place's corporate vice president for government and community affairs.

"Lorenzo's extraordinary background as a judge and regulator, coupled with his extensive experience as a casino executive in Louisiana, Missouri and Mississippi, will make him an exceptionally strong leader of the Flamingo as well as raise the profile of that historic property. We have some very exciting plans for the Flamingo, andwe're pleased that Lorenzo will be directing those efforts." - Wallace R. Barr, Park's Chief Operating Officer

"The Flamingo has a unique history in Las Vegas. We plan to reinforce everything that's already exciting about this incomparable brand, and to add some interesting new touches that will attract an even broader audience of guests and players." - Lorenzo Creighton

Before joining the Park Place in 2001, Creighton served for six years as the executive in charge of operations at Bally's Casino in New Orleans, a role that he has maintained since coming to Las Vegas. Creighton will continue to have responsibility for the New Orleans property going forward. Prior to taking over the Bally's New Orleans property, Creighton was general manager of Lady Luck Casino, in Natchez, Miss. (1994-1995) and general manager of President Casino, in St. Louis, Mo. (1993-1994). Before beginning his gaming operations career in Missouri, Creighton was executive director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission (1992-1993) and deputy administrator for the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission, headquartered in DesMoines (1989-1992). His career also includes service as a magistrate for theFirst Judicial District of Iowa (1982-1985).

Born in Waterloo, Iowa, Creighton received a Bachelor of Arts degree from LutherCollege in Decorah, Iowa. In May 1988, he received his juris doctorate from Drake University in Des Moines.

Also in May 2002 - Casino operators reached contract agreements with the union representing waitresses and housekeepers, virtually eliminating the prospect of a strike. The latest agreements between the Culinary Workers Union and the casinos were reached with Mandalay Resort Group, MGM Mirage, Park Place, Aztar Corp., and Harrah's. The new agreements cover about three-quarters of the 40,000 cooks, waitresses and housekeepers the union represents in Las Vegas. Under the new tentative contracts, workers will receive anaverage of $3.24 in increased hourly wages and benefits over the new contract's five-year life. Much of that will go to pay for higher health insurance costs, which workers will continue to receive free of charge.

On June 10, 2002, Park Place Entertainment announced that it was teaming with Margaritaville's singer/songwriter/author Jimmy Buffett, to bring the newest Margaritaville Cafe and entertainment complex to the resort.

The multi-level restaurant, bar and live music stage is scheduled to open in the fall of 2003. Construction began late 2002. Margaritaville at the Flamingo will enhance the resort's signature tropical ambiance while adding exciting new venues for dining, drinking and dancing.

"Margaritaville and the Flamingo were made for each other. People come to the Flamingo to party and have fun. We're delighted that Jimmy Buffet has chosen the Flamingo as the home of the first Margaritaville to be built west of the Mississippi." Lorenzo Creighton, Flamingo President

"If Las Vegas was good enough for Elvis, it's good enough for me." - Jimmy Buffet

Margaritaville at the Flamingo will feature restaurant and mezzanine levels that will allow diners to linger over Key West and Caribbean-inspired menu items or slowly sip margaritas. Located nearby will be a live music stage featuring bands with styles spanning Island to rock.

Buffett has recorded 33 albums, most of which have gone gold, platinum or multi-platinum. His latest CD, Far Side of the World, was released earlier this year and debuted on the Billboard Top 100 chart at number five. Buffett also is the author of three New York Times bestsellers -- "Tales from Margaritaville," published in 1989, "Where is Joe Merchant?" (1992), and "A Pirate Looks at Fifty" (1998). Buffett is one of only six authors in the history of The New York Times Bestseller List to have reached the number one spot on both the fiction and non-fiction lists.

In 2002, the Main showroom showcased Bottoms Up (afternoons; dark Sundays), and Gladys Knight (dark Sundays/Mondays). Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre showased The Second City. The Flamingo Room showcased The Great Emilio.

In 2003, the Flamingo showroom will be showcasing Gladys Knight, dark Sundays & Mondays, Tue. - Sat. 7:30pm, $55 / $65 per person plus tax & fees; Bottoms Up starring Breck Wall, $12.95 (plus tax and fees), 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm � Monday through Saturday; and The Amazing Johnathan, Friday through Wednesday, 10:00 PM, $40 & $50 plus tax and fees. Bugsy's Celebrity Theatre is showcasing The Second City, $29.95 (plus tax and fees), 8:00 pm, Monday & Sunday, 8:00 pm & 10:30 pm, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday. No performances on Wednesday