Friday, Feb. 11, 2011 | 7:20 p.m.
Carolyn Goodman
Sun coverage
Sun archives
- Giunchigliani releases first video in Las Vegas mayoral race (2-11-2011)
- Carolyn Goodman is using Oscar’s playbook in race for Las Vegas mayor (2-10-2011)
- Carolyn Goodman leads by huge margin in first poll of race to succeed her husband (2-5-2011)
- Carolyn Goodman says she, not Oscar, would call shots if elected mayor (2-3-2011)
Campaign kickoff parties offer candidates an easy way to recruit volunteers, meet potential voters and donors, and create buzz for their campaigns.
They also provide an early view into the type of campaign a candidate will run and insight into the candidates themselves.
Such is the case in the Las Vegas mayoral race.
Carolyn Goodman held her kickoff fete Friday evening at her campaign headquarters on Meadows Lane. It was a who's who showing of Las Vegas elite, with the signature Goodman flair.
Former Nevada first lady Dema Guinn made an appearance, as did several casino executives, elected officials and business leaders. Goodman said Guinn told her that the late Gov. Kenny Guinn would have wanted to support Goodman.
Spotlights illuminated a patio decked out with multi-colored balloons. Showgirls greeted attendees, and a "Pawn Stars" star endorsed Goodman.
Mayor Oscar Goodman schmoozed with his wife while guests munched Capriotti's sandwiches and mingled. A professional photographer snapped hundreds of pictures sure to appear in future campaign material.
A member of the Goodman team said she raised $500,000 in six days. The campaign expects to hit $1 million by the end of the month.
Clark County Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani's kickoff was a different scene. Her party was held last Saturday in her backyard.
More than 200 people showed up, but it was a casual event, with people wearing jeans and kids scurrying about.
Both parties paint a picture of what's likely to come as the campaigns heat up. Goodman's operation will rely heavily on her longtime community ties, which Goodman has made both as founder of the private Meadows School and as the mayor's wife, whereas Giunchigliani will run more of a grassroots effort.
George Harris -- mayoral candidate, founder of the Tequila Party of Nevada and a former Republican operative -- will hold his kickoff party Wednesday at his Las Vegas restaurant, Mundo.
Critics have accused Harris of running for mayor to promote his business ventures. He and his partner also operate a small tequila production company. Harris denies the charges and says creating jobs is his top priority.
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