Marsha Smith

Each December the Rodeo National Finals are held in Las Vegas, Nev. and many of our Kern Valley locals can be found in town for the event.

Fred and Elaine Roach were there this year, as they have been for many years. And like others, they also try to take in a little more of Las Vegas than just the rodeo.

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This year they bought tickets to see Donny and Marie Osmond perform at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. They were seated right down in center front, although Fred won’t admit paying extra for the special seating; he claimed it was all due to Elaine’s beauty and charm. Both Roachs said the show was fantastic, but the highlight was Donny performing some of the steps from winning dance routines from “Dancing with the Stars.”

After the final curtain and as the audience began making its way to the door, a gentleman who was obviously with the show, asked them if they would please remain behind for a few moments.

The Roachs thought maybe the Osmonds were going to come out and sign autographs, but instead, after the room was empty, they were asked back stage where they got a lot more than autographs. Each got hugs from the stars and pictures taken with them as well. Elaine said she thought Donnie is a real cutie, but Fred had a different description for Marie, he said she is “real hot!” quickly adding, “for a woman her age.”