Giving back, with song

On Dec. 13, the Las Vegas Mass Choir, along with some of Las Vegas’ finest entertainers, will perform at the 2nd Annual Home for The Holidays event at the historic Hartland Mansion. This event will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Greater Las Vegas, and the public is invited to attend this night of song. Some of the local entertainers who will join the choir include Ken Young, Lady Jazz T., Symmie Mitchell, keyboardist Tom Schuman, Spyro Gyra, Genevieve Dew and much more.

The Las Vegas Mass Choir was formed in 2004 by James R. Smith, who was asked by a record company to put together a group of the city’s best gospel singers for a special recording session. Since that day, the Las Vegas Mass Choir has fl ourished — recording an album called “Mass Appeal,” and performing around the world.

“We were delighted to be chosen by the Las Vegas Mass Choir as the non-profit of choice to benefit from this year’s 2nd Annual Home for The Holidays event,” said RMHC events manager Missy Check. “From what I understand … James R. Smith wanted a non-profit that assists children to receive a portion of the event’s proceeds. For us at RMHC, it is a perfect collaboration — because we want to stay festive even though the holidays can be hectic. Our organization is one that assists families in need of a place to stay while their child is being hospitalized or receiving medical [treatment] in the state of Nevada. It is wonderful to be part of community events such as the Las Vegas Mass Choir’s Home for the Holidays.”

At 525 Park Paseo, the historic Hartland Mansion — which at 31,000 square-feet is the largest private residence ever built in Las Vegas — recently underwent renovations and is open to special events and weddings.

It is believed that Elvis Presley, Bugsy Siegel and Howard Hughes all stayed there at one time or another. “One of the many highlights, along with food and beverages for the evening, is a meet-and-greet where people can meet some of the great local entertainers of Las Vegas before the concert begins.”

Home for the Holidays will begin at 7 p.m. on Dec. 13. VIP Tickets are $45, which includes the meet-and-greet; general tickets admission is $35. Sponsored by Larry Hart and the All American Printing & Advertising Company, the event will be a festive night to remember.

“We want to emphasize that we are so grateful that the Las Vegas Mass Choir chose the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas to be a part of this wonderful event,” said Check.