City Center Vdara

The food here is unbelievable. The trout is awesome. I sampled a lot from the menu.

QUITE A PLACE

Vdara

View fro the 39th floor.

City Center

Today I am getting a tour of the new City Center. It was a maze just getting here and locating Vdara.

U.S.-Chinese gather for largest assembly ever held of its kind

Fremont, Calif. (Nov. 20, 2009) – Smart Business Services, Inc. announces the first-ever U.S.-China Business Summit at The Venetian in Las Vegas Jan. 3-5, 2010. More than 1,000 minority business owners, entrepreneurs, delegates and government officials will network with fellow attendees and convene at what is expected to be the largest American-Chinese business assembly in history.

The 2010 U.S.-Chinese Business Summit has received support from notable political officials, including Gao Zhansheng, the Chinese Consul General in San Francisco, Brian K. Krolicki, Lieutenant Governor of Nevada, Oscar B. Goodman, Mayor of Las Vegas, Judy Chu, Congresswoman, David Hinson, national director of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), and Gary Locke, U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

The event's key panel features a round table discussion on Globalization and Minority-Owned Businesses in the U.S., and will highlight the role of the more than three million Chinese entrepreneurs to today's global economy. The panel will discuss the importance of the economic relationship between the U.S. and China in the changing global economy.

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke said the U.S.-China Business Summit is an important step toward furthering one of the largest and most important trading relationships in the world. "I visited China several times last year and had a chance to see the tremendous opportunities available to American and Chinese businesses in new growth industries," Locke said. "This conference is an important part of that ongoing dialogue."

The Summit offers 140,000 square feet venue and over 60 conferences and networking opportunities; and expects attendance of officials from the U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Agency, the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Small Business Administration, the National Restaurant Association, Association of China Investment, and others.

For a complete schedule or to register, please visit www.ChineseBusinessSummit.com.

About the Summit Organizer

Smart Business Services, Inc. (www.s-b-s.net) is specialized in the niche ethnic market of the Chinese-American business community and people involved with US-China trade; and is committed to increasing their clients' business success through trade magazines, database marketing services, industrial portal websites, eBusiness solutions, and global sourcing expertise.

Cow Chip Bingo

Thank you to our fund-raiser participants!

IAAPA

PIZZA!

G2E Las Vegas

Vincent makes a new friend at G2E Las Vegas.

G2E

Good hot dog. Decent crowd.

Non-Gaming Amenities Sizzle in North Hall at G2E 2009

LAS VEGAS — Despite the economic challenges of the past year, non-gaming amenities continue to be an important part of the customer experience at casino resorts across the United States and around the world. At Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 2009, gaming executives will have an opportunity to see the latest trends in food and beverage (F&B), as well as entertainment, in G2E's North Hall. G2E 2009 is scheduled for Nov. 17-19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"Consumers have come to expect casino resorts to bring together world-class entertainment, exceptional dining experiences with an enjoyable gaming environment. As we look to the future, non-gaming amenities will continue to be a crucial part of a successful business plan for casino properties," said Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., president and CEO of the American Gaming Association. "By bringing the latest trends in F&B and entertainment together with the newest innovations for the gaming floor, G2E provides gaming professionals a comprehensive, one-stop shop for their business needs."

G2E 2009 attendees will gain exclusive insight into the changing world of F&B and non-gaming amenities through the Retail, Dining and Entertainment (R, D & E) conference track. In the track's signature series session, "The Sweet Spot: How to Manage F&B in a Down Economy," attendees will learn how to redefine the F&B value proposition and develop an effective plan to deal with current economic challenges. The panel for this session will include leading F&B executives Jeffrey Frederick, regional vice president of food and beverage for Harrah's Entertainment, Inc.; Michael Mina, chef/restaurateur with Mina Group, LLC; and Damian Mogavero, CEO and founder of Avero.

The R, D & E track also will provide valuable insights for professionals working in the entertainment sector of the gaming industry with sessions such as "Entertainment 101: Negotiation, Contracts and Concepts," "Casinos and Celebrities: How to Market Your Casino with A-list Entertainment," and "Now for Something Completely Different: How to Create Out-Of-The Box Special Events."

In the exhibition area, F&B and entertainment executives will have the opportunity to preview products and network with more than 120 exhibitors offering the latest product innovations in everything from lighting design to stemware. As part of F&B at G2E, the Fine Wines & Cocktails Ultra Lounge sponsored by Southern Wine & Spirits will highlight choice beverage offerings from a number of word-class vendors and vineyards.

Attendees also will have a chance to see the latest F&B trends and innovations in action on the F&B at G2E Culinary Demonstration Stage. The schedule of events includes all-star Las Vegas chefs heating things up in the Neon Chefs demonstration series, cool G2E Cocktail demonstrations by master mixologists and the sizzling Ultra Lounge Uniform Fashion Show sponsored by Cintas, featuring the sexiest uniforms from leading casino ultra lounges and nightclubs on the Las Vegas Strip.

In the Entertainment Arena at G2E, attendees will have the opportunity to view new technologies and meet with exhibitors whose products and services help create the spectacular shows now associated with America's casino industry. The Entertainment Arena at G2E will include manufacturers of the latest in professional audio and lighting, staging, and projection/video products as well as entertainment agents, concert and sports promoters, independent producers, production companies, touring artists and attractions.

Gaming executives interested in securing new acts for their casino properties also will have the opportunity to see a wide array of 30 talented musical, comedy and entertainment artists perform live as part of the G2E Entertainment Arena's offerings. The G2E Entertainment Showcase Stage will be located in the lobby featuring musical and comedy acts, and the all-new G2E Variety Entertainment Showcase Stage will make its debut in the North Hall featuring jugglers, magicians and other unique variety performers.

For a full schedule of events on the G2E Culinary Demonstration Stage and both entertainment stages, visit www.globalgamingexpo.com.

G2E is the leading trade show and conference event for the international gaming entertainment community, attended by more than 26,000 industry professionals from around the world. For more information on G2E 2009, visit www.globalgamingexpo.com.

Award-Winning Pican Ideal for Intimate NorCal Events and Dinners

OAKLAND, Calif. — Picán restaurant in Oakland's Uptown District has been honored by inclusion in the esteemed Michelin Guide as a 2010 choice in the Bib Gourmand category. The distinction is awarded to restaurants deemed the "inspectors' favorite for good value." All restaurants on the 2010 Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list serve a meal – defined as two dishes and a glass of wine or dessert – for $40 or less, offering an "affordable, yet incredibly delicious dining option," according to the guide.

Picán, which opened in March, is a contemporary, sophisticated restaurant in Oakland's burgeoning Uptown District that serves modern, California-influenced Southern cuisine and offers an extensive collection of handmade, single-batch bourbons.
"We are honored to receive this distinction from the 2010 Michelin Guide," said Picán visionary and proprietor Michael LeBlanc. "I am so proud of our team, led by Executive Chef Dean Dupuis. As a resident of Oakland, I knew this restaurant had the potential to be something special, a transformational part of the Uptown neighborhood's renewal. It's thrilling for everyone who works so hard at Picán to receive this honor in our first year of operation."

LeBlanc, who grew up in New Orleans, was the first African-American corporate office in the history of Polaroid, running the Asian market and traveling the globe during his 26-year stint with the company. During his travels Le Blanc gained an appreciation for international cuisine and for the diverse cultures of the world, all the while retaining his passion for the food of his childhood.

Executive Chef Dean Dupuis, who hails from Atlanta's South City Kitchen, brought LeBlanc's vision to life with dishes that have won critical acclaim throughout Northern California. Dupuis quickly gained acclaim for his Buttermilk Southern Fried Chicken, which is brined and coated in buttermilk and hot sauce for 48 hours before cooking. Guests are advised to reserve Dupuis' fried chicken in advance when they make their dinner reservations.

Other favorite dishes at Picán include:
· Southern Caesar Salad with fried okra and parmesan grits croutons
· Low Country Shrimp & Grits
· Bourbon & Molasses Lacquered Duck
· Georgia Pecan Tart with buttermilk ice cream and bourbon butterscotch
· Chocolate Bread Pudding
· Abita Root Beer Float with sassafras ice cream and a bourbon praline

Picán is located at 2295 Broadway in Oakland. Picán has a stunning bar and lounge, featuring an extensive collection of handmade, single-batch bourbons, and an open kitchen. Design details include reclaimed pecan wood featured throughout the restaurant, deep shades of reds and browns, and richly textured fabrics and materials. The ambience is accented with the rhythms of jazz, R&B, gospel and classic soul. The 5,600-square-foot restaurant includes seating for 158 guests in Picán's bar, lounge and main dining room, plus outdoor seating for 24 on Picán's patio. "The Bourbon Room," Picán's intimate private dining room, accommodates an additional 20 guests.

Picán is open nightly Monday – Thursday, 4:30 – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 – 11 p.m., and Sundays, 4 – 9:30 p.m. Lunch is served weekdays 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. and Sunday brunch is served 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Valet parking is available. Reservations can be made by calling 510-834-1000. For more information, visit www.PicanRestaurant.com.

Industry demonstrates resilience in face of uncertainty

Despite uncertainty in the overall economy, the 2009 SEMA Show demonstrated the resilience and determination of the specialty-equipment industry.

More than 1,700 businesses committed to their futures by exhibiting at the 2009 SEMA Show. And those businesses were not just along for the ride, but were actively innovating. Collectively, they showcased more than 1,400 new products.

And as a result of increased floor space and a new location for the New Products Showcase, buyers made a record-high 65,000 scans, requesting additional product information.

Overall, 120,000 members of the industry attended this year's show, with the largest number ever coming from outside the United States. Roughly 24% of registered buyers came from outside the United States, demonstrating the increased global reach of the specialty-equipment industry and the ability of the SEMA Show to connect buyers and manufacturers across global lines.

The media reach of the SEMA Show was also larger than ever, bringing the industry's products and style to an ever-growing audience. This year, for example, enough showgoers posted items about products and vehicles to their Twitter accounts to push the SEMA Show into Twitter.com's Top 10 trends.

"One hundred percent of the businesses who attended the SEMA Show put it all on the line," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is an excellent indicator that buyers, manufacturers and services in this industry are ready for an active 2010."

SEMA

This is one BIG TIRE.

SEMA

Made it to the LVCC for the show.

SEMA Show

I need to get my press badge for SEMA. Lots of cars and parts to check out.

SEMA and California Agencies Solve Titling Dilemma for Hobbyist Vehicles

Diamond Bar, CA (November 2, 2009) -- SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Air Resources Board and Attorney General's office has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves.  "This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California," said Steve McDonald, SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs.  "Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements."

Over the years, California's complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations.  Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled.  SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

"Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA's charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees," said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane.  "After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created."

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program.  The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010 and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances.  Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners that have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles.  While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions.  Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first come, first served basis.  For vehicles with an exemption, a smog test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year.  The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year.  Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required.  California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far).  Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.  "The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles," commented SEMA Technical Consultant, Jim McFarland.  "In fact, by using one of these engines, it's also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for a powertrain that represents the latest in GM's emissions and performance-related technologies.  However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the "GreenRod Project" and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle.  An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a "retrofit kit" of parts can be installed.  Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, EFI controller, exhaust headers,  camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage 1980 El Camino fitted with a 1986 carbureted, 5.7 liter engine.  The 5.7 liter/350 cubic inch displacement small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely-used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.  

According to McFarland, "While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements.  Variables such as engine condition, accumulated mileage, and related factors affecting emissions from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels.  Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle.  The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine.  It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions which did not reduce power or performance."   

"Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA's work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment," said So Cal Speed Shop owner, Pete Chapouris.

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $31.85 billion specialty automotive industry of 7,144 member companies.  It is the authoritative source for research, data, trends and market growth information for the specialty auto parts industry.  The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles.  For more information, contact SEMA at 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765, tel. 909/396-0289, or visit www.sema.org and www.enjoythedrive.com