Tiger Jam back after year hiatus
Tiger Woods returns to Las Vegas this weekend for the first time since his epic fall from grace.
He's back after an 18-month absence to host Tiger Jam, his foundation fundraiser, which has been held for more than a decade at Mandalay Bay. The benefit was canceled last year in the aftermath of Woods' infidelity scandal, which included numerous Las Vegas nightlife connections.
Woods' last visit was late October 2009, about a month before his career unraveled after a Thanksgiving weekend car crash that came as word was leaking about his many affairs.
There are indications he might be ready to return to his favorite high-stakes gaming tables and nightclubs.
Some of his Las Vegas connections are convinced he will be back at The Mansion, the MGM Grand's high-end residence for high rollers.
At least one of his local ties is concerned about Woods' return to Sin City.
"He's gambling again," the source said. "He was playing in the Bahamas. I'm not sure if this is the right place for him at this time.
"There are two Tigers: one before his father died and one after his father died."
Plus, he's injured. He announced earlier this week that minor left knee and Achilles tendon injuries will sideline him for a while.
WYNN WEDDING SURPRISES
Lionel Richie will be belting out his hits, making sure Steve Wynn and Andrea Hissom's gala wedding rages all night long.
That's one of the surprises Wynn has planned for his wedding weekend, which gets under way tonight with a poolside white party.
Vegas Confidential's eye-spy army came up big earlier this week, nailing it with Clint Eastwood as Wynn's best man.
Wynn confirmed that to the media on Wednesday.
Now we're hearing Hissom's ex, London investment banker Robert Hissom, will be attending the wedding as well. He's no stranger to Las Vegas: He was a sidekick of legendary high roller Kerry Packer.
Also on the guest list: supermodel Naomi Campbell and Hugh Jackman.
MAY I RECOMMEND ...
A lucky dog out of a field of 50 will reign Sunday at The Animal Foundation's eighth annual "Best in Show," hosted by comedian Rita Rudner, at The Orleans. All the dogs are up for adoption, including some with special needs. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Animal Foundation and Lied Animal Shelter. The show starts at 1 p.m., with doors opening at noon. Tickets: $12 for adults, $5 for kids.
SIGHTINGS
Bruce Willis, wife Emma Heming and a friend, having lunch Wednesday at P. J. Clarke's (Forum Shops at Caesars). Willis is in town filming "Lay the Favorite," co-starring British actress Rebecca Hall, who plays a cocktail server who becomes a top sports gambler. ... Joining Carlos Santana in his show Wednesday at the Hard Rock Hotel: drummer John Densmore of The Doors, Australian guitarist Orianthi and Santana's wife, Cindy Blackman, on guitar. Chef Curtis Stone, host of Bravo's "Top Chef Masters," lunching at Postrio (Venetian) with a trio on Wednesday. ... Nick and Vin, two leading men in Showtime's Las Vegas-based "Gigolos," at Surrender (Encore) on Wednesday with a client.
THE PUNCH LINE
"I heard that Britney Spears is banning cookie dough ice cream and alcohol from her new tour. Or as Britney told her kids, 'Breakfast is canceled, y'all!' " -- Jimmy Fallon
Norm Clarke can be reached at (702) 383-0244 or norm@reviewjournal.com. Find additional sightings and more online at www.normclarke.com. Follow Norm on Twitter @Norm_Clarke.
