Columnist Elizabeth Foyt: Charity event is 'Murder' for NAH

NEVADA ASSOCATION of the Handicapped -- NAH -- recently hosted an evening of theatre with "Murder at Cafe Noir." The interactive mystery comedy and dinner presented by Mystery Cafe Theatre Company-Las Vegas featured a clever plot of suspicious death and intrigue on the tropical island of Mustique. Done in a 1930s style, reminiscent of film noir classics such as "The Maltese Falcon" and "Casablanca," the evening included songs by sultry torch singer-actress April Hebert, who wowed the crowd with "Come Rain or Come Shine" and other favorites of the era.

Coordinated by Angie Wallin, NAH's development director, the charity event drew rave reviews from guests including Vern and Darlene Burk, Dennis and Joan Stein, Mary Gilday, Nancy Marcelleus, Georgianna Duffy, Lorraine Moodie and Joe Colletti. Present as well were Sen. Richard and Bonnie Bryan and their Senate aide Sara Besser, who were seen with Mystery Cafe-Las Vegas producers Frank Marquette and Eddie Simmons. Marquette and Simmons chose to open their company in Las Vegas with this benefit performance and will work with other special events, private parties and conventions in the coming year.

Vince Triggs, NAH's executive director, speaking briefly at the evening's conclusion, stressed that the agency's mission is to assist with full employment for persons with disabilities, as well as create an atmosphere conducive to full independence and community participation, regardless of age, gender or race.

Staying on to mingle with the cast was Jon Tullis, who graciously lent his decorating abilities and materials to the black-and-white-themed evening. Seen in the crowd as well were Fran Dean, Cindy Lonn, Kristen Taylor, Karen Miller, Stephanie Hatch and Tammy Abbott, as well as Chuck Laffoon, Joanna and Courtney Triggs, Olivia Grown and Dana Smith.

"Murder at Cafe Noir" featured cast members Bobby Rodgers, Helen Sax, Barbara Singer, April Hebert, Rick Ginn, Tony Green and director-actor Frank Marquette. Mystery Cafe will offer this and other productions at Lawry's-the Prime Rib restaurant starting in mid-August.

Entries due

A note from Leslie Litchfield served as a timely reminder for Women in Communications's (WIC) annual Electronic Media Awards (EMAs). The EMA's recognize outstanding achievement in local radio and television. Entries are due by Aug. 18, with entry forms available by contacting Kelly Gresh at 657-3212.

The awards program will be Oct. 23 at Treasure Island hotel-casino with a cocktail reception, silent auction and gourmet dinner in the grand ballroom. All proceeds from the event benefit the Women in Communications' UNLV scholarship fund. Last year's show produced $25,000 in direct scholarship donations to UNLV students who were honored at a special program during WIC's April luncheon meeting.

Entries for the EMAs will be judged by six representatives specializing in television, radio and agency production and news. Women in Communications is an association of professionals in the communications industry whose efforts are directed at raising scholarship funds for UNLV students and promoting the open exchange of ideas within the industry.

Rodeo days

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Opening Aug. 5, the Las Vegas Helldorado Days Rodeo will run through Aug. 8 at the Thomas and Mack Center on the UNLV campus. Helldorado is a Las Vegas tradition dating back to 1934, when the first Elks Helldorado celebration was held during the final years of the Boulder Dam construction.

Rick Kaufman, who brings a host of special expertise to his hometown from his years spent as advertising and advance man with the circus, just recently signed a three-year contract to promote Las Vegas Helldorado Days. Rick reports that the four-day event will make rodeo history by offering the largest single cash prize.

The $1 million bull-riding event, which is expected to draw the best riders from around the world, offers qualifiers a chance to ride an eliminator bull for 12 seconds to win the $1 million prize during the finals on Aug. 8. The 12-second ride for the money exceeds the typical rodeo competition, which is normally a very grueling eight seconds.

ESPN will capture all the excitement and it has been rumored that the rather famous "Bodacious the Bull" will be featured in the action. This year's celebration will include four Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association performances, as well as headliner concerts, a "whiskerino" competition, wild west show, golf tournament and other attractions. Tickets for all events can be obtained through Thomas and Mack Center (895-3900) or any Ticketmaster outlet by calling 474-4000.

Club installations

Best wishes to Joy Tyrrell, who was recently installed as president of the Las Vegas Towne Club. A social and civic organization of women, the group was established in 1965 and continues to serve our community through various projects and outreach programs. Held at the Las Vegas Country Club, its installation luncheon was a festive time for fellow officers, including Yolanda Moreira, (first vice president ), Patti Lewis (second vice president ), Mary Ellen Robillard ( third vice president ), Barbara Masso (secretary), Joan Le Mere (treasurer) Mary Kurtz (parliamentarian) and Sandra Dinsmore (publicity). The Las Vegas Towne Club meets monthly. For additional information, call 878-5340.

Collecting memories

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Are you one of scores of students who have attended Bishop Gorman High School in past decades? Perhaps in your collection of treasures from the teen years are momentoes and special items concerning the school, among them photos, dance card programs, playbills and Homecoming collectibles?

In an effort to create a truly complete archive for future historic reference, BGHS has appointed Sharon Tegano Cusumano as alumni historian. With the assistance of fellow BGHS graduate Jennifer Bochenczak, Sharon will use her considerable organizational skills to create an easily referenced collection for enjoyment of all and planning aids for future anniversary events.

Past graduates are asked to share any and all items related to the school, and in particular, photos taken on campus or at school-related events. Treasures can be sent or dropped off at the school office, with additional information available by calling Cusumano at 224-2713. Help your school, clean out those cupboards, empty your garages, share your past with generations to come!

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