Iris Dorbian

Harrah's Entertainment (NYSE: HET) has set April 5 for a shareholder vote on a proposed $17.1 billion buyout by Apollo Management and Texas Pacific Group.

Claire's Stores Inc. (NYSE: CLE) buyout bids are due this Wednesday, but the NY Post reports that most bidders have already taken a pass. The only remaining interest reportedly comes from Apax Partners, which may be working with Apollo Management.

Applebee's International Inc. (Nasdaq:APPB) has retained Citigroup and Banc of America Securities to help explore strategic alternatives, including a possible recapitalization of sale of the company. The Overland Park, Kan.-based company franchises and operates nearly 2,000 restaurants under the Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar brand. www.applebees.com

Gryphon Investors has agreed to acquire G.I. Joe's Inc., a Wilsonville, Ore.

Bay to Bay Capital Partners has acquired the assets of L&S Supplies Inc., a Hudson, Fla.-based regional supplier of pre-hung doors and millwork products. No financial terms were disclosed. The sellers were company founders John Schroder and Mike Mahoney, who will remain in charge of day-to-day operations at L&S. www.baytobaycapital.com