Mike Kinney – Auctioneer – Best Auctioneer and Emcee in Las Vegas

Welcome to MikeKinney.Vegas!

I am your best provider of auctioneer/emcee services! When you’re selecting talent for your event, whether it is a benefit auction, gathering of celebrities, or motor sports competition, there are some essential skills that need to be considered.

Passion, excitement, enthusiasm.
Knowledge of the “product”, whether it is a NHRA top fuel dragster at a national drag race, or a one of a kind getaway to Hawaii for a high-end benefit auction.
Having a relationship with the audience, being able to read the room .

These are just a few examples of my capabilities. The balance of this website provides you with additional insights regarding why I am the best choice for your next event!

ABOUT MIKE

With over 30 years’ experience, Mike Kinney is a highly sought after provider of services in the auctioneering, motorsports, emcee, and lifestyle event realms. With his unique bass-baritone voice, commanding room presence, and long flowing mane of snow white hair, Mike always conveys a memorial impression. From humble beginnings serving as an announcer for “local” race tracks in Southern Iowa, Mike’s career has expanded to becoming the face, and the voice, for numerous events on the Las Vegas Strip and beyond.

Mike has had the pleasure of working with, and learning from, some the best in the business. Examples include Dave McClelland (the voice of NHRA and SEMA); Paul C. Behr, World Wide College of Auctioneering; George Barris, Barris Kustom Industries; Stacey David, Rattletrap Productions; Tom “Spanky” and Amy Assiter, Assiter Auctioneers; John Nicholls, Nicholls Auction Market Marking Group; Jill Marie Wiles, Benefit Auctions 360; Shannon K. Mays, Shannon and Associates; Brian Rigby, Professional Ringmen’s Institute; Tim Kruse, Reppert School of Auctioneering; and Brent Earlywine, Earlywine Auctions.

Mike has provided emcee/auctioneer services for a series of charitable organizations throughout the Southwest United Sates and beyond. Examples include: SEMA Cares; The Lili Claire Foundation; Speedway Children’s Charities; Finding Autistic Solutions for Tomorrow; Las Vegas Public Broadcast System (Vegas PBS); Conquer Paralysis Now; Fallen Officer’s Fund; American Parkinson Disease Association of Southern Nevada; Saint Baldrick’s Association; Nevada Sportsman Unlimited; and the White Horse Youth Ranch Project.

In a similar manner, Mike has served as emcee/announcer for numerous motorsport events, including NHRA, NASCAR, SCORE International, performance boat races, and monster truck competitions. In addition, Mike has served as auctioneer/emcee/host for events at prominent locations including numerous Las Vegas Strip venues (e.g., The Venetian Resort Hotel and Casino; MGM Grand Hotel and Casino; Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino; South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa; Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino), private estates in Brentwood, CA and Las Vegas, NV; the Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills, CA; and the Playboy Mansion.

Collectively, Mike Kinney has developed a very well-deserved reputation of being truly one of kind and has a unique skill set that is second to none which in turn has generated over $2 million in revenue for various charitable organizations throughout the United States.

SERVICES

Fundraisers/Benefit Auctions

services_fundraiser Did you realize that, while there are numerous auctioneers, less than 1% of them have chosen to undergo the rigorous process required to receive NAA designation as a Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS)? Mike Kinney is committed to bring exceptional experience and professionalism to your fundraiser/benefit auction. Chances are that you have experienced your event not meeting expectations or even seen some sponsors no longer wanting to support you. Mike Kinney brings an energy and interactivity to the audience that always seems to generate greater revenue and produce the most positive memories.

Mike Kinney fundraising venues include: formal and informal charity fundraising galas for 501 (c3) non-profits, formal and informal charity fundraising galas for registered non-profits without 501 (c3) status, formal and informal fundraising events for profit corporations, local charities and private fundraising venues.

A NAA designated Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) has successfully completed multiple charity events and has a motivational passion for the work we do. In some instances, Board Members make the mistake of trying to find the cheapest auctioneer, or even worse, someone who just “wants to try it”, rather than selecting the best professional auctioneer who can potentially make them generate the maximum amount of revenue and not “leave money on the floor.”

Mike Kinney consistently brings the right tools, and expertise, to help you meet your fundraising goals.

Auctions

services_auctions Whether you’re selling, or looking to buy, prized property, a highly desirable collectible automobile, or one-of-a-kind treasures, an auction is just the place to make things happen!

While some might view it as complicated and time consuming, a fast-paced auction is one of the most efficient ways of converting your property or assets into immediate cash. In fact, over a quarter-trillion dollars in goods and services are sold at auction every year in the U.S. With the combination of pre-sale marketing and the auctioneer’s chant and/or an attention-grabbing online bidding platform, you could have enthusiastic, attentive buyers aggressively competing to purchase your property.

Mike Kinney brings an excitement to an auction that makes it a special event that draws people again and again. People participate in auctions out of curiosity about what unique or interesting items are for sale. There’s even more curiosity among bidders when it comes to the prices obtained at auction. By talking to auction professionals, sellers and other buyers, auctions can be a great way to learn about real estate, art, autos, furniture and more, sellers and auction professionals. You learn about values, construction of items, collection practices and much more when you participate in an auction.

Mike’s role goes far beyond the speed of the chant. In addition to being a member in good standing of the National Auctioneer Association (NAA), Mike Kinney is also a Certified Professional Ringman. This noteworthy certification requires training, code of ethics, and the professional commitment to bring the best in expertise to your auction.

Lifestyle/Galas/Special Events/Corporate

services_lifestyle Do you have an upcoming Gala or Special Event that requires an Emcee, or a strong vocal presence, to ensure event success? Have you ever been to an event where maybe the emcee was boring and monotone, or maybe had too many alcoholic drinks, or was not really informed about your cause or event? Maybe it is time to hire a professional? Maybe it is time to hire Mike Kinney! Whether it is the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills or a high-stakes poker party at a Las Vegas Casino, Mike Kinney comes prepared with a commanding voice and phenomenal energy. His ability to learn about your cause and the important constituents that might be attending, along with being punctual, professional and the ability either to dress formally or casually and still deliver the equal amount of enthusiasm and professionalism sets him apart.

Mike Kinney takes pride in his work and always prepares in advance for your event, he does not “do what everyone else does” – He brings unique branding to your event, and with your assistance can create specific emcee material for your event, while also ensuring attire and etiquette required specific to your event are met.

Motorsports

services_motorsports Do you have the need for speed? Well, Mike Kinney DOES! With a lifelong interest in motorsports, hot rods, custom cars and anything that goes VROOOOOOM, Mike brings that extra horsepower to your motorsports race, car show or similar venue. Well known in the NHRA and NASCAR circles along with automobile manufactures, Mike Kinney brings a wealth of quality experience to delivery your message in a professional and enthusiastic manner. Just because the event might be more casual in nature, Mike still brings a level of professionalism to motorsports events that be viewed by some as going over the top. Mike makes no apologies for his passion, because he wants your patrons to feel relaxed and enjoy the event and that success is delivered with preparation, experience and relationships.

RESUME

EXPERIENCE

The Lili Claire Foundation

Mike Kinney has had the pleasure to serve as Emcee and Auctioneer for numerous fundraisers benefiting The Lili Claire Foundation. In addition to tradition duties on stage, also worked with celebrities as well as members of the media. Recent venues have included an incredible ballroom at the Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas, NV, where he had the pleasure to work with Sheri Belafonte, Caroline Rhea, Bob Saget, Jason Alexander, and many other noteworthy celebrities. In addition to a vast array of collective memorabilia for the silent auction, Mike auctioned off walk-on roles for nationally broadcast sitcoms and many other highly desirable items. At the end of the evening, this gala event generated revenues in excess of $150K for this incredible charity.

Speedway Children’s Charities: Las Vegas Chapter

Mike Kinney has served in numerous capacities for this local chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities, most recently as lead Ringman for the annual NASCAR Driver’s Auction. Duties included working with volunteer bid spotters as well as holding a one on one meeting with the auctioneer, who had not participated in such an event previously. During event evolution, ensured bidders appreciated the importance of their bids, along with entertaining the audience in general. This energized venue generated in excess of $80K for numerous charities throughout the Las Vegas Valley.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway - Las Vegas, NV

During his divewrse career, Mike served as principal announcer for the majority of drag racing events held at “The Strip”, recognized as one of the premier NHRA sanctioned facilities in the United States. Provided media support and technical commentary for NASCAR races at the LVMS Super Speedway. Also assisted with announcing NHRA National events, including SummitRacing.com, AC Delco, and Top Alcohol competitions. Provided on camera support for media productions as well as serving as lead announcer for numerous track rentals, including Mopars at the Strip, B&M Racing Series, Goodguys, Lucas Oil Series, and American Harley Davidson Racing Association.
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Mopars at the Mansion, Playboy Mansion West - Beverly Hills, CA

After promoters observed Mike’s incredible emcee abilities while on stage at another event, he was hired to serve as as emcee for Mopars Collectors Guide collectible car event held at The Playboy Mansion West, Beverly Hills, CA. Additional duties included assisting with event logistics, development of event copy, providing event commentary, interviewing event participants, celebrities, and escorting dignitaries.

Desert Storm Poker Run and Shootout - Lake Havasu City, AZ

Host, lead announcer, and auctioneer for Desert Storm, a performance boating event held at Lake Havasu as well as a series of venues located throughout Lake Havasu City, AZ. This event is billed as the most prestigious of its kind in the Southwestern United States, and included performance boats up to 50’ in length from across the US and Canada. Duties included serving as Master of Ceremonies for all event segments, providing technical/color commentary for the event shootout (high speed) competition; and assisting with awards ceremony. Also served as auctioneer for two auctions benefiting New Horizons, a local non-profit organization that provides services for individuals with developmental challenges, including Autism, Epilepsy, and Cerebral Palsy.

Vegas Heat - Las Vegas, NV

Lead host and co-producer for local television series focused on the inside view of numerous motorsports activities, including drag racing, monster trucks, and street rods. Responsible for technical color commentary, interviews with NHRA drivers, crew chiefs, and team owners.

Concours De’Elgance Las Vegas - Las Vegas, NV

Director of Contemporary Vehicles, responsible for all event logistics, including staging of vehicles, judging, and serving as event emcee. Also served as chairperson for Concours d’Elegance Las Vegas Car Council, tasked with coordinating attendance of contemporary vehicles, including muscle cars, street rods, hot rods, customs, and imports. Additional duties included serving as event principal for numerous media representatives and escort for celebrities.

Desert Steel Motorsports - Lake Havasu City, AZ

Host and lead announcer for Stadium Baha races in Northern Arizona, including Champ, Trophy, Baja 1 and Baja 2, motorcycle, ATV, and “tuff truck” races. Responsible for providing event commentary, interviewing drivers, assisting with awards ceremonies, and providing on camera support.

Native Country Studios - Orlando, FL

Associate producer for Spotlight Vegas, a weekly television series formatted for the Las Vegas, NV, market. Responsible for development of segment approaches, generation of scripts, conducting interviews, and selection of actual show material. Also served as co-host for the overall series, including providing introductions and segues.

KLAV 1230 AM Talk Radio - Las Vegas, NV

Co-Host for Sunday night radio talk show entitled A Lion’s Pride. This weekly series focused on charitable giving organizations, as well as volunteer organizations, throughout Southern Nevada. Duties included coordinating guest schedules, development of promotional copy, providing PSAs, and conduct of in-studio interviews..

Monster Truck Competitions, Numerous Promoters and Locations

Lead announcer for monster truck competitions held in Southern Nevada, Southern Florida; Northern Arizona; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Madera, California. Duties included serving as floor announcer, providing color/technical commentary and driver interviews. Also provided event logistical support, including staging of monster trucks, judging of competitions, and coordinating access to the vehicles for visiting dignitaries and media personnel.

AFFILIATIONS/MEMBERSHIPS

Professional Associations and Certifications

National Auctioneers Association (NAA) – Overland Park, KS
World Wide College of Auctioneering – Mason City, IA
Reppert School of Auctioneering – Indianapolis, IN
Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) – Diamond Bar, CA
All Vegas Business Alliance – Las Vegas, NV

CERTIFICATIONS/DESIGNATIONS

Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS), NAA, Overland Park, KS
Certified Professional Ringman, Professional Ringman’s Institute (PRI), Rogersville, MO

REFERENCES

The majority of Mike Kinney’s gigs come from enthusiastic referrals from great people like:

Shari Belafonte, Los Angeles, CA
Jim Russell, President, Desert Steel Motorsports, Lake Havasu City, AZ
Monica Jackson, On Air Talent, KVVU-TV, Fox 5, Las Vegas, NV
Paul C. Behr, President, World Wide College of Auctioneering, Mason City, IA
Brian Rigby, Chairman, Professional Ringman’s Institute, Rogersville, MO
Kathy Spehar, Director of Entertainment, Cannery Hotel & Casino, North Las Vegas, NV
Stacey David, Rattletrap Productions, Madison, TN
Brian McMullan, Owner, McMullan’s Irish Pub, Las Vegas, NV
Jennifer Mankins, Nevada Sportsman’s Unlimited, Las Vegas, NV
Rob Wolf, Publisher, Mopar Collectors Guide, Baton Rouge, LA
Phil Painter, Promoter, Mopars at The Strip, Las Vegas, NV
Cindy Meitle, President, CAR PR USA, Phoenix, AZ
Keith Resnick, Founder, The Lili Claire Foundation, Santa Monica, CA
Amy Meyer, Founder/President, White Horse Youth Ranch, Las Vegas, NV
George Barris, Barris Kustom Industries, North Hollywood, CA
Kay Butchko, Republican Women of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Dave McClelland, Dave McClelland Enterprises, Glendale, CA
Jerome “Junk Yard Dog” Williams, Retired NBA, JYD Project, Las Vegas, NV
Debbie Faint, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Bo Hopkins, North Hollywood, CA
Darryl Starbird, Car Show Promoter, Tulsa, OK
John Bray, Food and Beverage Director, Green Valley Ranch Resport, Las Vegas, NV
Cindy Ferris, Director of Marketing, Jerry’s Nugget Casino, North Las Vegas, NV
Jerry Peck, Founder, New Horizons Center for Learning, Las Vegas, NV
Mike Spagnola, Vice President, SEMA Product Development Center, Diamond Bar, CA
Steve Parrington, President, 24 Frame & Productions Services, Las Vegas, NV
Jeff Motley, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, NV
Kevin Haggerty, Lead Singer, Dr. Harpo & 2 The Moon, Las Vegas, NV

TESTIMONIALS

Ducks Unlimited

Ducks Unlimited (DU) is a national organization with over 700,000 members that holds traditional events, tournaments, and fundraisers around the country. On March 6th, 2021, the DU Team hosted the Nevada Continental Shoot Banquet, held at the Plaza Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV. Mike Kinney, as our auctioneer was able to accommodate last minute changes as well as keep attendees entertained throughout the live auction portion of the evening. Mike is very well versed in his abilities and we were thrilled to have him support our event. - Jason Mace, Ducks Unlimited Southern Nevada District Chair

Heaven Can Wait Animal Society

Due to COVID-19 considerations, we at Heaven Can Wait Animal Society quickly realized that a traditional in-person fundraiser or gala wasn’t feasible. Instead, we chose to hold a virtual event. This included partnering with a local production company, developing a broadcast from scratch, and extending invitations to local talent who might be interested in being part of the event. We also realized the vital role that an emcee would serve, and could not be more pleased with the level of professionalism provided by Mike Kinney. He displayed great camera presence, an engaging personality, and flexibility in accommodating last minute changes - he used his signature voice to entertain as well as inform. Mike also participated in a series of planning meetings that addressed overall event flow, solicitation of talent, and finalizing of the script. While we have previously availed ourselves of Mike Kinney’s services when he served as the Charity Auctioneer for our annual Holiday Luncheon, his abilities as an Emcee/On Camera Host are just as noteworthy. Our Board of Directors were thrilled with the event, and numerous participants helped generate significant funds to support the essential services we provide. Heaven Can Wait Animal Society Francesca Fulciniti, Executive Director

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Due to a last minute illness, we had to find a replacement auctioneer very quickly. Mike Kinney was able to re-arrange his schedule to be our auctioneer and are we glad he did! Mike provided a lot of great insight regarding our live auction items and was very responsive to our questions and participating in conference calls. On the day of the event, he also arrived early and even pitched in to help set up the room. Mike also met with the planning committee to address the overall live auction process prior to beginning the event. During the actual live auction, Mike did a great job keeping the crowd entertained and actively bidding. This was one of our best events ever in Nevada and Mike Kinney’s skills directly contributed to that success. Allen C. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Pahrump, NV Chapter

Lisa B. – Kayenta Center for the Arts

Mike was AWESOME! It’s the morning after the event and I’m a bit tired but not too tired to rave about Mike and his talent and personality. We spoke on the phone a couple of times before the event, and he was exactly as promised. He was prepared, fun, engaging, and the results for our art auction was successful. Thank you Mike!

Antiques Auction

We had a vintage sewing machine auction. Although Mike didn't know anything about the machines he was extremely capable of auctioning them off. He kept the crowd entertained and sold every last item we had above the reserve. Would recommend for any occasion. His fees were also much better than other auctioneers who sent me bids. 5 star all around. We look forward to working with him again.

Brody T., Las Vegas

Las Vegas Speedway Children’s Charities

Our March 9, 2017 auction was so upbeat and we raised more than $80K to help local children in need. Mike kept the crowd engaged while having fun with them all to raise funds for our charitable organization. He was early to arrive to meet the emcees and go over any changes in the program. He's very pleasant, dressed very professional and was very accommodating to last-minute changes in our auction. I would highly recommend partnering with Mike Kinney on corporate or non-profit events.

Paulette Anderson

Olive Crest

Mike was excellent! We met originally to go over event ideas and logisitics regarding live auction and fund a need. He was always available leading up to the event to answer my questions. On the day of event he showed up early, met with my staff to ease them of any concerns they had and he was very successful in helping us fundraise for the evening! It was our best event in 5 years!! Thank you Mike for making the evening the best it could be.

Laura Armeni-Kneesel, Associate Director of Development

Mopars at the Strip / JP Motorsports

Mike Kinney can provide any event with an electric atmosphere due to his charismatic personality combined with his knowledge and passion of the automobile industry. I would consider Mike Kinney a real asset to any event looking to raise its energy level and fun factor.

Phil Painter, Promoter

Cannery Casino Resorts

Mike Kinney is the best of the best in his ability to wow the crowd. Our customers love him. You can't get any better than Mike. I use him for all our events and he is great for private, VIP or public events. You will not be disappointed.

Kathie Spehar, Director of Entertainment and Events

JYD P.R.O.J.E.C.T.

Mike Kinney is a world renowned auctioneer who helped my JYD Project charity raise tens thousands of dollars. His passion and enthusiasm were contagious as he imposed a gracious and giving attitude to those in attendance. I would recommend Mike to anyone in need of an auctioneer or emcee!

Jerome "JYD" Williams (retired NBA player)