Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman & The Chippendales

Here in my home city of Las Vegas, where spectacle is always a key ingredient, it’s only fitting that our beloved Mayor Carolyn Goodman chose to go out with a showstopper. For her final official act as mayor, Goodman handed the Key to the City of Las Vegas to the iconic Chippendales, the world-famous male revue synonymous with the city’s glitz and glamour, on stage at Rio Hotel & Casino. After 12 years in office, Goodman was term-limited and will welcome former Rep. Shelley Berkley as the new mayor of Las Vegas next week.

Known for her charisma and love of all things Vegas, Goodman’s gesture celebrated the Chippendales’ decades-long contribution to the entertainment capital’s legacy and their ongoing dedication to community service and philanthropy. When Goodman stepped into the role of mayor of Las Vegas, she knew she had big—and flamboyant—shoes to fill. Her husband, former Mayor Oscar Goodman, was famously accompanied by two glamorous showgirls at nearly every event during his tenure. Determined to add her own twist to this tradition, Carolyn upped the ante with a signature move of her own: enlisting two handsome Chippendales (or more!) to escort her to countless charity events and public appearances over her 13 years as mayor. The pairing not only captured the city’s playful spirit but also showcased Goodman’s knack for blending humor, charm, and Las Vegas’ undeniable flair into her leadership style.

Two traditions that became staples of Mayor Carolyn Goodman’s tenure with the Chippendales were their annual appearances at the Magical Forest holiday tree lighting and the Great Santa Run both benefiting Opportunity Village. Since 1954, Opportunity Village has been dedicated to helping people with disabilities find the very best version of themselves.

These lively traditions perfectly captured her dynamic leadership and her ability to bring a little bit of sparkle to every cause she supported, always accompanied by her favorite bow-tied men in Las Vegas. The inscription on the key to the city makes reference to the show’s commitment to Opportunity Village, Mayor Goodman was introduced Friday night by host Jayson Michael, setting the stage for a memorable moment as she presented the Key to the City to Ryan Kelsey, the show’s Dance Captain and proud Las Vegas native. https://www.instagram.com/rkxlv223/p/DC_EKKORRIX/?img_index=1 I’ve gotten to know Mayor Goodman over her three terms in office and can attest to the terrific job she’s done these past 12 years. And always with grace and a smile. After a legendary 22-year run with more than 9,000 performances at Rio Hotel & Casino, the hottest men in Vegas will be moving to The LINQ Hotel + Experience with an all-new show beginning January 14, 2025.