Atlantis General Manager & Executive Vice President, Darlyne Sullivan was presented with the Industry Pride of the Year Award, at the International Women in Gaming Awards in London, England on Friday, September 24^th! The Industry Pride of the Year Award nominees were chosen from the entire field of nominees for seven awards, recognizing women as role models in the gaming industry.

Twenty-five women earned nominations for each of the seven awards, though only 56 were named as finalists. Darlyne was one of eight finalists for the Leader of the Year Award, but said she was surprised, and humbled, when she heard her name called as the recipient of the most prestigious award of the evening.

“I was stunned. But, I immediately thought about the team of 1,800 people back at Atlantis. This is not about me, it’s about the entire team here who made this possible. This is their award,” she said.

Darlyne was the only woman working in the United States to be awarded. The Women in Gaming Awards was created to highlight exceptional women in gaming, who offer proof that the industry provides exciting career opportunities for females throughout the world.

According to WiG, the Industry Pride Award is selected by the judges, from the finalists of seven categories, and goes to one exceptional woman whose vision, innovative approach and success make her an outstanding role model that will inspire more women to choose a career in Land based Gaming or I gaming industry.

See the complete list of winners here: http://www.gaming-awards.com/wigwinners2010.html

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is located on the strip at the corner of South Virginia and Peckham Lane, in the heart of Reno’s new shopping and dining district. Atlantis offers eight award-winning restaurants, world-class casino action, live entertainment, complimentary valet service and acres of free self-parking. Visit www.AtlantisCasino.com for information on events, tournaments, dining specials, online reservations and more. For more information call (775) 825-4700 or toll-free at (800) 723-6500.

-Ben McDonald

In an effort to help promote energy efficiency, Silver Legacy Resort Casino has made plans to switch the lighting on the world’s largest indoor mining rig into a new LED system.

This month, the old can and wash lights used to illuminate the dome above the mining rig will come down.  The lights generate 792,000 watts of power, while the new LED system will produce only 5,400 watts of power—a huge energy savings.

In addition to using less power, the new LED lighting system will not emit heat, which will help lower the cost of climate control in the casino.  Lifetime for the new LED lights is also approximately one hundred times greater than the old system.

It’s just another example of Reno Tahoe’s investment in green energy. No wonder we made the list of greenest U.S. cities.

The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) announces Audrey Higashi has been hired as the National Convention Sales Manager for the agency. The position is responsible for effectively selling the Reno, Sparks and North Lake Tahoe area as a convention destination. The position reports to the Vice President of Convention Sales for the RSCVA.  Higashi’s first day on the job is August 16.

“Higashi has more than 20 years of experience in service and hospitality sales, account management and staff training, and has worked in the Reno-Sparks area since 2001” said Ellen Oppenheim, RSCVA President and CEO. “Higashi’s experience as a former National Sales Manager for the RSCVA demonstrates that she will bring valuable sales experience and contacts to the position.”

Prior to accepting this position, Audrey Higashi previously worked at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, Nevada as the Director of Sales. In her new position at the RSCVA, Higashi will be responsible mainly for Texas, Colorado and the Great Plains states.

“I’m thrilled to join the sales team and become a part of the driven sales staff at the RSCVA,” Higashi said. “I am also excited to work for the RSCVA again, and I look forward to working with the sales team to help promote our wonderful destination to all of the potential meeting groups and conventions.”

“Higashi has a strong understanding of the Reno Tahoe marketplace and is effective in analyzing market trends and developing strategies that exceed sales goals,” Oppenheim said. “She will make a great addition to the RSCVA Sales team.”

About the RSCVA: The RSCVA is the primary tourism agency supporting convention and tourism business for the Reno Tahoe region.  Reno Tahoe supports unlimited possibilities from outdoor recreation to 24-hour Nevada style gaming and entertainment.  For more information about Reno-Tahoe call 800-FOR-RENO (800-367-7366) or visit www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino is making a statement with the final phase of a $15 million dollar renovation project.  As part of a commitment to reinvest in the overall property, Silver Legacy will begin to completely transform each of the guest rooms and suites into fresh new spaces with modern comforts July 2010.   

With soothing elements and a new status of comfort and luxury in mind, each of the new guest rooms and suites are designed to provide the perfect oasis for relaxation and modern amenities for functionality.  This fresh new makeover harnesses classic contemporary style with rich furniture finishes, sleek lighting and posh carpet and fabric textures in bold silver, red, brown and black shades.  Splashes of sophisticated décor will add to the warm, welcoming feeling each room will exude. 

“The new rooms are stunning,” says Gary Carano, general manager of Silver Legacy.  “This entire renovation project is a testament to our long-standing guest service reputation. We’re committed to reinvesting in the property and our guests comfort and enjoyment.  Giving our guests an amazing experience is the bottom line”. 

Other elements of comfort include new amenities and modern conveniences, such as easy-access outlets at our ergonomically designed desks and frameless mirrored closets.  New 32” LCD televisions provide a stunning focal point to each guest room, while 37” LCD televisions add sleek style to each spa suite. 

In addition to the haute new look, Silver Legacy is also providing a luxurious new feel with fine linens.  New bedding ensembles include triple sheeting, plush pillows, elegant damask throws and beautiful bolsters for high end comfort.  

In all, Silver Legacy will give 1,549 guest rooms and 143 spa suites a new look during this renovation.  The 10 penthouse suites were previously upgraded to reflect a classic style. 

Quick Facts about Silver Legacy Resort Casino Renovations

Here are a few quick facts on the transformation:

 -       Total Remodeled Guest Rooms: 1,549

 -       Total Remodeled Spa Suites: 143

 -       Total Cost of Project: $15 Million

 -       10 Penthouse Suites previously remodeled in classic style

 Hotel Facts:

 -       Top Name Entertainment and Nightlife: See national headliners in the Grande Exposition Hall—Bars, clubs and lounges including Aura Ultra Lounge, Rum Bullions Island Bar, Drinx Lounge, Silver Baron Lounge and Catch a Rising Star Comedy Club

 -       On Site Amenities Include: Health Spa, Pool, Concierge Services, LuLu Hair Salon, Executive Business Center, Parking and Shuttle Service, Hertz Rental Car, Shoe Shine

 -       Boutique Shopping: Harley-Davidson, Bijoux Turner, Tradewinds Casualwear, The Boutique, Carriage House, Ami Jewelers

 -       Dining Options Include: Sterling’s Seafood Steakhouse, Fairchild’s Oyster Bar, Flavor’s! The Buffet, Café Sedona, Fresh Express Food Court, Sips Coffee and Tea, Room Service

 -       Facilities Include: 50,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, outstanding catering services, wedding reception packages

 -       Largest Working Indoor Mining Rig simulating the silver mining process of Nevada’s Comstock era, 120 ft. tall in the center of the property under the world’s largest composite dome

 For more information on Silver Legacy Resort Casino and this renovation project, please visit us online or call 775.789.0490.

26th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo
March 4-7, 2010 Reno-Sparks Convention Center

The Expo Hall at the Elk Camp is a great way to spend time with family and friends, as you experience a wilderness adventure as you enter our extensive hall filled with nearly 400 exhibits. Roam through fantastic exhibits of custom rifles, hunting accessories, outdoor gear and unique handcrafted art. You can even scout out the hunt of your dreams.

The World Record Elk display is definitely something you won’t want to pass by. This is your chance to see some of the world’s biggest bulls.

World Elk Calling Championships will be held on Saturday, March 6th with preliminaries on Friday, March 5th. When the world’s best callers get together, things get exciting, so come experience this incredible competition and choose your own favorite, or grab your tube to squeal, grunt and bellow with the best.

If your interested in learning more about everything elk, stop by the Spike Camp Hunting Seminars, and learn how to hone your hunting skills as some of America’s best known outdoor enthusiasts share their latest tips on bow hunting, horse packing, marksmanship, calling wildlife, cooking and more!

Don’t miss out on the Interactive Area, which includes everything from a Kids Camp to the Archery Range to the LaserShot Shooting System, this addition to the Exhibit Hall has something to entice everyone. The Reno Fly Shop will provide fly casting instructions for the entire family. And on Friday and Saturday, you can lean how to pack your horse or mule at the Packing Clinic.

General Admission tickets may be purchased in the lobby during show hours.
General Admission
Members Non-members
Daily Individual Pass $10 $12
Daily Family Pass $20 $25
Kids 5 and under FREE FREE

Exhibit Hall Hours
Thursday, March 4, 2010 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Friday, March 5, 2010 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 6, 2010 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, March 7, 2010 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) is pleased to welcome the 2010 Wild Sheep Foundation’s Annual Sheep Show to Reno Tahoe USA.

“The Wild Sheep Foundation has strong roots in our destination and we are thrilled to officially open this year’s exhibition and show,” said RSCVA President and CEO Ellen Oppenheim. “We look forward to kicking off this long-term partnership and fulfilling it to mutual benefit for many years to come.”

The Wild Sheep Foundation recently signed an agreement to bring its convention and international sporting expo, “Sheep Show,” to Reno for six years: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016.

“We are looking forward to a great week in Reno Tahoe,” said Gray N. Thornton, Wild Sheep Foundation president and CEO. “This year we are expecting increased attendance from last year. We welcome Reno, Sparks and Lake Tahoe enthusiasts to visit this years show. The event is open to the public and the cost to attend is $15.”

The Wild Sheep Foundation estimates its event will generate 5,000 hotel room nights annually. The organization also estimates that more than 5,000 participants will attend the show. The hotel partners for the January 30 – February 8, 2010 convention are the Silver Legacy Resort Casino and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The 2010 event marks the 15th time the group has visited Reno. It is the first time the group will utilize the Reno-Sparks Convention Center because the group has grown in size.

“We selected Reno Tahoe because the destination is focused on hospitality and understands the conservation market,” said Thornton. “The combined support of the RSCVA and the many fine hotel properties makes Reno the ideal place for the Wild Sheep Foundation Convention and International Sporting Expo. We are very pleased to come home to Reno.”

Hours of the show are:
Thurs. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Fri. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Show is open to the public. Membership in the Wild Sheep Foundation is not required.
Day Pass $15 per person
Membership special is $45

The 38th annual Safari Club International Hunters’ Convention (SCI) has arrived at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center (RSCC). This is the eighth consecutive year SCI has held its annual convention in Reno Tahoe and the 19th year overall. Additionally, SCI recently announced that they have selected Reno Tahoe to host the 2013 and 2015 shows, extending SCI’s presence in the destination for an additional two years. SCI was previously committed to bring the 2011 Annual Convention to Reno Tahoe.

SCI estimates the 2010 event will generate 21,000 room nights and drawing 23,000 people to Reno Tahoe, up from 20,500 in 2009. More than 50 different countries are represented. The RSCVA estimates the 2010 convention to have a local economic impact of $20 million.

The show features more than 2,000 booths with 1,100 vendors. Additionally, the convention features exhibits, seminars and auctions spread throughout 560,000 square feet of convention space.

SCI first held its convention in Reno at what was then known as Bally’s hotel in 1989 with 2,500 attendees. In 1999, the convention moved to the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and attendance increased to 15,500.

According to TradeShow Week Magazine, in 2008 SCI was the 101st largest show in the United States by net square feet.