A Very Special Stirling Club Offer

Beginning today, The Stirling Club is offering a very special service during the holidays. Under the direction of Charlie Palmer executive chefs, the Stirling Club will be offering freshly baked holiday pies that may be ordered through the concierge.

For more information and prices, please contact the Stirling Club concierge. Orders are should be placed in advance as only so many pies may be baked on any given day. There are four different pies to choose from to make your holidays complete and the Stirling Club Courtier is pleased to share a little history about each of them.

The History Of America's Favorite Holiday Pies.

Apple Pie. While the earliest recipe can be traced back to England and the time of Chaucer — the English author, poet and philosopher — apple pie has become synonymous with America, even if the reason was English. During colonial days, colonists would have to wait for carefully transported pips before they became fruit-bearing apple trees. So the colonists took to making pastries with meat instead of fruit.

Once apples were finally available, the variations of pastries and new recipes (some from the eighteenth century) ensured the pie would finally become America's favorite dessert. When it did, it became so commonplace that the old saying as American as apple pie stuck.

Pumpkin Pie. Unlike the apple, the pumpkin is native to the continent of North America but the pie did not originate here. When pumpkins were exported to France, the flesh of the “pompion” was quickly accepted as pie filler before making its way to England.

Ironically, the Pilgrims brought pumpkin pie back to New England, but its popularity later waned in England. Perhaps that is the primary reason pumpkin pie became associated with Thanksgiving and the holidays. While the Native Americans had the pumpkins, the Pilgrims had the right recipe.

Pecan Pie. Tradition holds that the French invented pecan pie soon after settling in New Orleans, with Native Americans already enjoying the nut. However, the true origin of the pecan pie is a mystery because no recipes have ever been found prior to 1925.

Over time, American literature began associating pecan pie with the holidays and despite its mysterious origin, it still carries an aura of French cuisine as a home-cooked comfort food. Sometimes, the French-American flair is emphasized with the addition of chocolate or bourbon whiskey.

Sweet Potato Pie. While it doesn't have as rich a history as some of the other pies, sweet potato pie is an American invention that can be traced to the Southern United States. It has become an America favorite, especially around the holidays.

Interestingly enough, it was the northern states that eventually decided to add marshmallows as a topping. In the South, the recipes are generally simple with mashed sweet potatoes, milk, sugar and eggs, flavored with spices such as nutmeg.

Membership Opens A World Of Opportunities

Membership at The Stirling Club means more than the very best of Las Vegas. While the club is well known for events, entertainment, and amenities, it also includes privileges at more than 60 reciprocal clubs throughout the world. From time to time, The Stirling Club Courtier highlights some of these clubs, providing members with a glimpse at the world that awaits them.

Three Amazing Reciprocal Clubs For Stirling Club Members.

The Royal Automobile Club of Australia in Sydney, Australia.
Founded in 1903 as a motoring organization, it has become one of the country's premier private clubs, set in a beautiful historic building that is centrally located in Sydney, Australia. The club is a short walk from Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, and other major attractions.

Among its many events and amenities, the Royal Automobile Club of Australia is known for its historic Harbour Room, which offers stunning views across Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens. This room also serves as the main members' dining area, with an à la carte menu five days a week.

The Balboa Bay Club at Newport Beach, California.
The Mediterranean-style waterfront Balboa Bay Club includes a private membership club and resort (which is public), is a Four Diamond property, and the only waterfront resort in Newport Beach. It combines an illustrious past tied to California's renowned gold coast. It was founded in 1948.

The members-only portion of the club includes two private dining rooms with views of the bay, a private pool, lawn, and beach area bayside. Like many reciprocal clubs, it also features a state-of-the-art private health club, daily activities, and monthly special events. Visiting the club includes access to an amazing spa, open only to members and resort guests.

Genesee Valley Club in Rochester, New York
This year marked a special occasion for the Genesee Valley Club in New York. It is celebrating the 125th anniversary of when it was conceived in the Powers Block, Room 49 at the office of Hobart F. Atkinson (the club’s first president). Today, it is one of the 235 most highly regarded private clubs in the United States.

In addition to a fitness center, pool, and tennis, the Genesee Valley Club provides fine dining for guests inside its elegant Green Porch, historic Red Grill, casual Armstrong Grill, and seasonal Front Club and Armstrong Grill Terraces. The culinary staff at the club has held the Rochester Chapter of the American Culinary Association's 'Chef of the Year' title for two consecutive years.

Protocol At Reciprocal Clubs.

Once you contact a club to ensure availability of reservations, services, or other amenities, Stirling Club members may then contact the The Stirling Club, which will send a letter of introduction to the visiting club. While there may be some limitations and different club rules, all clubs generally accept reciprocal members with open arms while they are visiting that area.

One notable difference: all members should keep in mind that it is customary to pay for club services as they are enjoyed (there are no bill backs). Several Stirling Club members have made friends all over the world by visiting dozens of these clubs.

For additional privileges, current members are encouraged to call for information about Signature Gold memberships. For inquiries and a tour of The Stirling Club, please contact Membership Director Kathleen Gustafson at 702-784-4603.

A World-Class Meeting Destination Inside Las Vegas

The Stirling Club remains the most exclusive premier private retreat in Las Vegas, but the club is frequently used for many other purposes. It is well known for providing the perfect location for corporate meetings, business luncheons, and event seminars.

"We currently have an exceptional opportunity to provide members with a 10 percent credit from any catered event in September," says Kathleen Gustafson, membership director. "The credit is applied to their membership account, while giving businesses and guests who enjoy entertaining the chance to try out any number of offerings— the Stirling Room, Verandah, or any one of our private rooms."

Occasionally, some businesses provide workshops and presentations that are complimentary to members and guests. For example, Merrill Lynch will be hosting a global market presentation at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 in the North Lounge.

The complimentary program is designed to introduce investors to the growth opportunities that exist outside the United States. Merrill Lynch has made a case for investors to consider global markets for the past several months.

“While advanced economies continue to slow, recent data suggests that emerging markets are gathering strong momentum,” Merrill Lynch Bank of America reported to Bloomberg. “With US interest rates stuck at zero and a growing likelihood of another round of quantitative easing, we see the potential for strong capital inflows into emerging markets boosting liquidity, currencies, and domestic asset prices.”

According to Gustafson, the program represents the diverse purposes businesses and social members find at the club. While most members take advantage of club amenities, fitness center, spa, and live entertainment, some have found the centrally-located club perfect for events and even gatherings associated with conventions.

"No matter where the event hosts are based, we have a team that handles all the details while they entertain your business or social circle at meetings, celebrations, and even weddings," said Gustafson. "Our first-class catering team includes renown chef and restauranteur Charlie Palmer, ensuring a memorable event."

For more information about the unique opportunities provided by the club or to make special arrangements to tour the property, contact Kathleen Gustafson at 702-784-4603. Attendees at such events do not have to be members, but it is not uncommon for event guests to inquire.

The Most Entertainment On The Smallest Stage

While some wonder what to do after seeing some of the biggest names in Las Vegas entertainment, Stirling Club members know many post-concert shows and stopovers begin and end at The Stirling Club. For several years, The Stirling Club has become the place for entertainment greats to enjoy live entertainment four nights a week.

On occasion, big names and bright stars don't settle for just making an appearance inside the piano lounge. Many of them take to the stage for a song or an unscheduled set, much like they would at an impromptu jam session at each other's homes. What's the allure? The Stirling Club is already home to several headliners who set the stage for summer nights where anything is possible.

Scheduled Entertainment For June At The Stirling Club.

Wednesdays — Carmine Mandia
As a featured performer in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, and New York, Carmine Mandia has wowed audiences as Frank Sinatra in "The Rat Pack Is Back" and "Frank & Barbra - The Show That Never Was." According to BWW News Desk, Mandia will also be opening for Don Rickles at the Orleans as part of his "Shades of Sinatra" act that never tries to impersonate but always includes signature Sinatra favorites with the most beloved sounds from his era.

Thursdays — Stephanie Calvert
Most people know Stephanie Calvert joined Starship after playing for the popular Las Vegas band Love Shack. But what many don't know is that when Calvert isn't busy touring with the legendary Mickey Thomas, she makes her home at The Stirling Club. You can catch a vault video with Calvert and Starship performing White Rabbit.

Fridays — Ronnie Rose
Ronnie Rose, the smooth-voiced blues and pop singer who fell in love with Las Vegas a few years ago, attracts audience members like Motown legends Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy. He shares the stage with legends too. In 2002, Rose opened for for Earth, Wind and Fire.

Saturday — Kelly Clinton and friends
Las Vegas entertainer Kelly Clinton, who also serves as director of entertainment, headlines every Saturday night. On most nights, it's anybody's guess who might share the stage with her. However, even when Clinton is on her own, it's impossible to forget her performances. Here's one clip from a show two years ago.

In recent weeks, The Stirling Club has also hosted Konrad Brook, Elisa Fiorillo, and special guest Joey Gian. Members can expect more surprise visits during the summer months.

For visitors and area residents hoping for an invitation inside the most exclusive destination in Las Vegas, contact Kathleen Gustafson, executive director of membership, at 702-784-4603 or by e-mail via The Stirling Club Web site. Prospective members are sometimes extended a visitor pass to attend special events and/or try select services within the club.

The Benefits Of A Stirling Club Membership

The Stirling Club in Las Vegas is extending its once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for members to give the gift of membership to their friends and family. The special program for members is simple.

Current members may recommend membership to any friend or family member and the initiation fee will be waived, leaving only a modest administration fee and monthly dues, paid by the new member, at the level of membership they prefer, including social or premier level membership for individuals and families. (Applications must be received by Feb. 28, 2010.)

Upon request, the executive membership team will prepare a beautiful gift box to present this very special opportunity. Inside, it will outline all of The Stirling Club's amenities and include the most recent copy of The Stirling Club member newsletter as an introduction to the varied events hosted at the club.

Highlights For Membership At The Stirling Club

• An assortment of fine and casual dining experiences created by James Beard award-winning executive chef Charlie Palmer.
• Four remarkable areas to enjoy live entertainment, meetings, special events, billiards, and cigars as appropriate for the room.
• A full-service European-style spa, featuring seasonal specials for members, listed among the top ten spas in Las Vegas.
• A complete state-of-the-art fitness center with strength-building and cardio machines, instruction studios, and aerobics.
• An indoor pool, lagoon-sized outdoor pool, and four clay courts that are among the top rated courts in the city.
• A fully-staffed beauty center and salon, with some of the area's most skilled beauticians, stylists, and image consultants.
• Live entertainment by top performers and surprise guests four nights a week and special appearances by touring masters.
• Member mixers, classes, tournaments, events, fashion shows, children's art classes, and limited seating dining and wine events.
• A complete business center, private rooms for presentations and meetings, and access to the Charlie Palmer catering team.
• A concierge team, dedicated to placing reservations for shows, special events, and dining at the finest establishments.
• Access to several of the finest private golf courses in the Las Vegas area, with preferred tee times.
• Access to more than 60 reciprocal clubs throughout the world, some of which have onsite overnight rooms.
• An opportunity to upgrade membership to include the Signature Gold Unlimited, recently featured in September.

Connect With Members and the Membership Director

Anyone is welcome to connect with The Stirling Club group on Facebook or receive updates by following the team account on Twitter. However, the best experiences are often in person.

For visitors and area residents hoping for an invitation inside the most exclusive destination in Las Vegas, contact Kathleen Gustafson, executive director of membership, at 702-784-4603 or by e-mail via The Stirling Club Web site. Prospective members are sometimes extended a visitor pass to attend special events and/or try select services within the club.

The Year In Review At The Stirling Club

With the countdown to a new year well underway in Las Vegas, General Manager Mike Saye and the entire team would like to take this opportunity to thank members for a very memorable year.

While there are many ways to accomplish this, it seems most fitting to share some of these moments as seen through the eyes of our members, guests, and friends. The mentions below represent only a few of the experiences enjoyed at The Stirling Club this year. And yet, because our members, guests, and friends took the time to share them, they are representative of what makes The Stirling Club a second home for residents and regular visitors. Thank you and enjoy.

Twenty-Five Stirling Mentions by Members & Friends

Elisa Fiorillo is Back in the Footlights! by Diane Taylor. Living Las Vegas featured a photo of singer/songwriter Elisa Fiorillo at The Stirling Club. Earlier this year, Fiorillo performed with Prince on Tonight Show With Jay Leno. Our members join her every Saturday night for live performances(including this New Year's Eve).

Rachel Uchitel Lists Her Las Vegas Property by Daniel Kanoon. The Property Buzz was quick to pick up on Rachel Uchitel listing her ground floor penthouse at Turnberry Place. So was The Real Estalker.

Repuff, Cigar Relighting Solution by Dane Maralason. Commenter Dante Becerutti III shared his experience rebuffing a Fuente Opus at The Stirling Club.

Featured Community Member by Theresa Hall. Half-Hour Meals, which is an online community-supported cookbook, features former dining reviewer and member Richard Becker including The Stirling Room at The Stirling Club (Charlie Palmer) among his top five favorite restaurants in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Philharmonic Presents an Intimate Concert by VegasNews. One of several concerts held throughout the year, the Las Vegas Philharmonic showcased violinist and concertmaster DeAnn Letourneau, principal cellist Andrew Smith, and nationally renowned pianist Sandra Rivers.

Final Thoughts And Grateful Thanks by Kathy Bax. Member Kathy Bax includes her experience at The Stirling Club in a story that also blends in a recent cruise.

Featured Article by NeoPopRealism. The article mentions the work of Joseph Borozotta, who included The Stirling Club as one of several places his work has been shown.

A "Stirling" Evening with Jason Falls, The Bloggess, Jay Ehret and Copywrite, Ink. by Jason Teitelman. This post from BlogCatalog.com, which is a blogger community with 300,000 members, hosted their dinner in The Stirling Room at The Stirling Club.

Top Chef Episode 8: Charlie Palmer University by Sarah Feldberg. Published by Las Vegas Weekly, the article recaps Top Chef: Las Vegas featuring Chef Charlie Palmer, the genius behind The Stirling Room.

Dana and Joel Jarvis Las Vegas Wedding Video by Shaw Productions Inc. As seen on Las Vegas Wedding Planner, the video highlights the wedding of members Dana and Joel Jarvis last September.

Turnberry Place by Glenn Radcliffe Pop and jazz singer Glenn Radcliffe shared his experience at The Stirling Club with a former member of the Drifters.

Kiss My Palate - Johnny Love Vodka Cocktail by Vegas News Just prior to participating in Kiss My Palate, the charity event benefitting Project Shero taking place at The Stirling Club, Johnny Love Vodka created a signature cocktail specifically for the event. You can find it here.

Oscar Goodman Pours, ELV Triumphs by John Curtas. Curtas recapped Kiss My Palate, where Eating Las Vegas (ELV) beat Clark County Commissioner Lawrence Weekly and The Morning Zoo’s Chet Buchanan in a cooking contest. Judges included celebrity Chef Kerry Simon and Executive Chef John Watson.

Lollipop Chicken Wings by Steve Piamchuntar. Sinner Magazine included a recipe created by Stirling Club Chef Steve Piamchuntar. He has been cooking at The Stirling Club for more than six years.

Vintage Vegas Returns To Suncoast by City Guide Las Vegas. This short article shares how Shades of Sinatra, created by Kelly Clinton, debuted at The Stirling Club before moving on to larger and larger venues. In 2007, Shades of Sinatra was named “Best Tribute Show” by the Entertainment Consumers’ Exchange.

Las Vegas’ Largest Mixer V Hosts VIP Kick-Off by Largest Mixer. One of the larger events of the year hosted at The Stirling Club was a VIP Kick-Off Event for the Largest Mixer, with more than 200 people attending.

MAGIC After parties: Your Complete Guide by Las Vegas Weekly. The Stirling Club became home to one of MAGIC's favorite after party events hosted by Prodigal Daughter. Prodigal Daughter is a bold new women's fashion line from Los Angeles.

Vegas DeLuxe by Robin Leach. While many celebrities enjoy their privacy at The Stirling Club, Robin Leach learned that Alicia Taylor made a surprise appearance at an executive lounge event.

Assemblyman Morse Arberry Honored At Las Vegas Juneteeth Committee by Evibe. When the Juneteenth Committee wanted to honor Assemblyman Morse Arberry, the most fitting place was The Stirling Club at Turnberrry Place.

Viva Las Vegas by The Godfather of Las Vegas. While there were many highlights, The Godfather of Las Vegas cited the Cigar Room at The Stirling Club with a dozen executives and celebrities as an easy favorite.

Las Vegas Hotels: Top 10 Spas by Orbitz. As covered in September, The Stirling Club was honored to be included by Orbitz as a Top Ten Spa.

Hollywood Legend Tony Curtis Shows His Support For FEAT by Diana Magpapian. Published by Hollyscoop, Magpapian recaps Tony and Jill Curtis attending a seated dinner prepared by celebrity chefs at The Stirling Club to benefit Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Southern Nevada.

The Nevada Tennis Hall of Fame Hosts a Star-Studded Luncheon by Inside Tennis Inside Tennis captured one of several tennis events hosted at The Stirling Club this year. Guests included Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, Tony Bennett, and Phyllis McGuire.

Hanging Out With The Boys by Tony Curtis. Yes, even member Tony Curtis has a blog. You can find it here just before his art showing at The Stirling Club earlier in the year.

You're Invited as our guest to the "Enchanted Bridal Affair" by Jodi Harris. Patrick Harris was among the first to host an event at The Stirling Club last year. The event included a bridal show unlike any other hosted in Las Vegas.

In closing, the Courtier team would also like to extend its thanks to The Stirling Club members and new visitors. Thank you very much. And Happy New Year!

Five Exclusively Unique Gifts For 2009

The Stirling Club Courtier has created its top five exclusive gifts for 2009. All of them represent some of the most exclusive finds that people are talking about this year, and all of them include an element of originality, including the price.

Along with our top five quick picks, The Stirling Club is sharing several of its upcoming special events for the next two weeks. Like the exclusive gift picks, they all represent events that you cannot find anywhere else in Las Vegas. Enjoy!

1. Life-Sized Lego Sculpture of You, $60,000

Nathan Sawaya is considered the world's foremost independent LEGO artist, using LEGO exclusively as his art medium of choice. When he isn't touring along with The Art of the Brick museum show, this freelance artist accepts commissioned work from individuals, corporations, and almost anyone with a good idea. During the holidays, some of those good ideas include building a life-sized LEGO sculpture of anyone, based on nothing more than measurements and a few photos.

2. Limited Edition Fighter Motorcycle, $110,000

There are only 50 P120 Fighter Combat motorcycles available, with 45 of them being offered in the 2009 Neiman Marcus Christmas book. Featuring a 120-cubic inch radial twin engine that delivers 160 horsepower, the ride is described as informed, pure, and explosive. It's yet another success for Confederate Motor Company, which was founded in 1991 to create the most holistic, avant-garde process in motorcycles.

3. Stuart Weitzman Tanzanite Heels, $2 million

First spotted at the Le Vian party in Las Vegas, these silver leather designer heels flaunt 185 carats of tanzanite and 28 carats of diamonds. The shoes were the collaborative efforts of Stuart Weitzman teamed with jeweler Le Vian. Given the exclusivity of this single pair, you might have to settle for one of the other wonders from Stuart Weitzman, who is responsible for designing five of the world's top ten most expensive shoes.

4. One Night in the Royal Penthouse Suite, $65,000

As much as it would be nice to attribute it to Las Vegas, the world's most expensive suite is the Royal Penthouse Suite at the President Wilson Hotel in Geneva, Switzerland, up from $33,000 per night last year. The four-bedroom suite occupies the entire top floor of the hotel and has bulletproof windows and doors. The suite is popular with international diplomats. The hotel itself overlooks the imposing panorama of the Geneva Harbor at Mont Blanc. In Las Vegas, the current ooshest publicly available suite is the Hugh Hefner Sky Villa at The Palms, which runs as high as $40,000 per night.

5. Holiday Membership Gift at The Stirling Club, $200*

Admittedly self-serving to include membership at The Stirling Club as one of the most exclusive gifts of the year, the Holiday Membership Gift is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a member of a premier private club in Las Vegas. This special gift, which is only available through an existing member, is ideal for referred family and friends. The membership does require a modest administration fee* (no initiation fee) and monthly dues, based on the level of membership they prefer.

You can discover the property amenities at The Stirling Club site, but the real benefits of membership tend to be what happens here all the time. Here are some highlights over the next two weeks. (Reservations are required.)

• Designer Sale, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 3. This special member event features up to 80 percent off fashions from Versace, Just Cavalli, Galliano, Torras, and others. The sale also includes some rare and exclusive gems and settings selected by Fred Paris.

• Chanco - Rahman Piano Duo, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4. Aileen Chanco and Raja Rahman have been performing together since they were students at The Julliard School, which is one of the one of the world's most prestigious performing arts conservatories.

• Kids Art Class, noon to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5. Taught by 'Art Classes for Kids,' this special family event in the North Lounge teaches children (and those young at heart) how to paint gingerbread houses, reindeer, poinsettias, of abstracts for the holidays.

• Member Holiday Open House, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 10. Set in the Stirling Room, this festive members-only event includes complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

• Hanukkah Dinner, starting at 5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11. A special Hanukkah dinner and Menorah lighting will take place in the member dining room. A special menu insert will also be available during the holiday.

These events are all in addition to regularly scheduled live entertainment, Sunday brunches, and Monday night football parties in the cigar bar. For more information about any events, please refer to the The Stirling Club newsletter.

For non-members interested in becoming members and then taking advantage of the Holiday Membership Gift program, please contact Kathleen Gustafson, executive membership director, at 702.784.4603.

The Stirling Key To National Clubs

While The Stirling Club is exclusive to Las Vegas, membership does not have to be exclusive. Many business members who frequent Las Vegas upgrade their membership to Signature Gold Unlimited, which expands the experience to more than 200 associate and affiliate clubs across the United States.

"We have always taken advantage of the benefit of Signature Gold ... the savings from using Signature Gold will pay for my annual dues." — Signature Gold Member, Brookhaven Country Club

While traveling, Signature Gold members frequently enjoy complimentary golf, complimentary dining, and great deals at affiliate hotels and resorts. Most clubs extend our members the same courtesies as they would any of their local members.

Signature Gold Unlimited Membership

• Complimentary green fees at prestigious country clubs nationwide
• Exclusive access to the fitness centers, athletic centers, and tennis courts
• Experience complimentary world-class dining in more than 50 major cities
• Access to the best tickets across the country for theaters, shows, concerts, and sporting events
• Complimentary Titleist loaner clubs recognized by Golf Digest's 2009 Hit List
• Special attention and recognition at world renown restaurants owned by chefs such as Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse

In addition to the Signature Gold Unlimited, The Stirling Club is currently offering a membership upgrade program that allows for members to extend premier membership and social membership privileges to two or more colleagues. For more information, contact Kathleen Gustafson, director of membership.