Jackie Brett - Callback News

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, April 10, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

STEVE WYNN PROPOSES LAGOON PROJECT AND ADDED HOTEL

Steve Wynn is proposing to reimage the former Desert Inn golf course behind the Wynn and Encore resorts into a 38-acre lagoon accompanied by a 1,000-room hotel with a casino, restaurants, meeting space and nightlife. The project for now is being called Wynn Paradise Park and if it gets approved could possibly open in 2020. The projected cost is $1.5 billion or more.

The design is expected to feature a boardwalk-ringed lake that could host daytime water skiing, paddle boarding and parasailing, and fireworks at night from a centerpiece island. The proposed hotel would be about half the rooms and height of the current two resorts but with the same copper-colored glass.

Previously announced, the company also plans to open a new 75,000-square-foot retail complex fronting Las Vegas Boulevard late next year.

‘BAZ - STAR CROSSED LOVE’ WILL PREMIERE AT THE PALAZZO

“BAZ - Star Crossed Love” will be revealed on June 25 in the redesigned Palazzo Theatre featuring a new generation modern and intimate cabaret with a high-energy movie-music mash-up of the world’s most iconic love stories, as imagined by famed film visionary, Baz Luhrmann. Inspired by Luhrmann’s signature take on “Romeo + Juliet,” “Moulin Rouge,” “The Great Gatsby,” and “Strictly Ballroom,” this theatrical concert will feature soul-stirring performances from an ensemble cast and band.

The show, five years in the making, is the creation of For The Record, a Los Angeles genre bending theatrical company with a vision of turning the soundtracks of iconic filmmakers into an immersive theatrical concert experience. The show has been staged in limited engagements around the country but it has been reformulated for The Palazzo. For The Record’s unique format is a reimagined storyline tying the show’s production numbers together. One song will be from Luhrmann’s upcoming Netflix original series “The Get Down,” which premieres in August.

“BAZ - Star Crossed Love” will play Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with preview performances beginning June 21. Tickets start at $59.50.

KABUKI MASTERS WILL HEADLINE AT MGM GRAND

Internationally renowned Kabuki masters will perform six shows in the David Copperfield Theater at MGM Grand May 3-7 in “KABUKI LION Shi-Shi-O: The Adventures of the Mythical Lion.” The visual spectacular stars Ichikawa Somegoro, the world’s most celebrated Kabuki artist, and brings to life one of Japan’s national treasures. The art form is known for its stunning presentation, dynamic fight scenes, masterful choreography and the unique “onnagata” - male actors who impersonate women in Kabuki theatre. Tickets start at $65.

This coming-of-age tale tells the story of Shi-Shi-O, a devout Buddhist who sends his children on a mission to defeat a mythical creature and retrieve a sacred sword that has been stolen from Monju, the deity of spiritual wisdom. This cultural show will be performed during Japan’s Golden Week, which commemorates several national holidays including Shōwa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day.

To celebrate Golden Week, dynamically designed hologram samurai shows will return to The Fountains of Bellagio from April 29-May 7 with daily shows at 8, 9, 10 and 11p.m.

LIBERACE GARAGE OPENS AT THE HOLLYWOOD CARS MUSEUM

The new Liberace Garage museum opened to the public last week at The Hollywood Cars Museum located at 5115 Dean Martin Drive. The Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts unveiled legendary automobiles from his stage acts. The new experience features vehicles such as the 1961 Rolls Royce Phantom V limousine, which was used for his acts at the Las Vegas Hilton and shown in the award-winning HBO movie, “Behind the Candelabra.”

The idea for the Liberace Garage grew out of the success of an exhibit of the entertainer’s famous costumes and cars at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in 2014. Due to overwhelming public demand, the expected six-week run of “Too Much of a Good Thing Is Wonderful” was held over for nine months. Liberace is the only person recognized by the Library of Congress as being a cultural influence on Las Vegas, a city he came to define.

The new 5,000-square-foot space also includes event space. Hollywood Cars Museum is open seven days per week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WYNN ANNOUNCES AVICII’S FINAL DATES IN LAS VEGAS

Grammy-nominated artist/producer Avicii’s final dates at Wynn’s Encore Beach Club and XS Nightclub will be the only and final time to see him live in Las Vegas.

Avicii recently declared his official retirement from live performances in a heartfelt Facebook post to fans. Meanwhile, Avicii’s is honoring all of his upcoming 13 dates at Wynn through Saturday, June 25.

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET and RUSTED ROOT VISIT BROOKLYN BOWL

Legends of alternative rock Toad the Wet Sprocket and the percussion-driven Rusted Root will co-headline a night of nostalgia and new tunes at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas at The Linq on Monday, July 11 at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $35.

Toad the Wet Sprocket was named after a fictional band Monty Python’s Eric Idle created for the program “Rutland Weekend Television” in 1975. They packed Brooklyn Bowl in July 2012 and November 2014. The group met in high school and have been writing, recording and touring in support of their albums the last 25 years.

Performing together for more than two decades, Rusted Root has eight albums under their belt and sold upwards of three million records.

ARIZONA CHARLIE’S BOULDER OPENS RENOVATED BUFFET

Arizona Charlie’s Boulder on Boulder Highway has opened its completely renovated Charlie’s Market Buffet. Previously known as Wild West Buffet, Charlie’s Market Buffet offers an assortment of American and international cuisine with carving stations, seafood, pasta dishes, fresh salads and desserts. Weekly specials include “Tuesday BBQ Night” from 4-8 p.m. and the “Prime Rib Dinner” Friday-Sunday starting at 4 p.m. all three days. The restaurant’s new look is up-to-date and contemporary.

THE LAS VEGAS TENORS WILL SERENADE AT THE SUNCOAST

The Las Vegas Tenors will return to the Suncoast Showroom May 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. Formed in 2005, the current lineup features original member Bobby Black, joined by new members Paul Vann and Lou Gazzara. This trio performs everything from rock, opera, country, rhythm and blues to everything in between. Tickets start at $20.
A self-taught trombone player from the South, Black began singing at his local church at the age of 3, and later spent seven years as a lead soloist for The Zion Brothers, a national touring Southern gospel quartet.

Vann’s diversity as a singer-songwriter had him beginning his career performing country music classics on the famed General Jackson Showboat in Nashville. As a talented songwriter, he’s penned hits for pop stars like *NSYNC and Mandy Moore. Also a voice actor, Vann has been heard on numerous national radio and television commercials.
Hailing from New Jersey, Gazzara rose to fame at age 17 when he became one of the youngest contestants to be featured on the second season of “American Idol.”

GRANT GRIFFIN HEADLINES ‘A MUSICAL JOURNEY’ AT RON DECAR’S

Grant Griffin will headline an intimate one-man show, “A Musical Journey,” a travel in time from the 30s to present day, at Ron DeCar’s Event Center on Saturday, April 30 at 7 p.m. In show business, Griffin’s career spans over 50 years and includes performing in more than 500 concerts worldwide and producing more than 90 musical events. His guest artist will be legendary Jeneane Marie, one of the Las Vegas’ finest female vocalists, who has opened for stars such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Don Rickles, and Rich Little. Tickets are $22, $39, $43, call 702-384-0711.

OTTO ENOTECA E PIZZERIA AT VENETIAN CELEBRATES NINTH BIRTHDAY

OTTO Enoteca e Pizzeria at The Venetian will celebrate its ninth birthday on April 25. To commemorate the occasion, all month OTTO is offering a collection of three samplings from its Antipasti – Verdure (vegetable) menu for $9 during lunch. For dinner, guests may experience the best of OTTO’s lively, authentic Italian menu with a Tasting for Two for $99. In addition, all day through end of April, the restaurant will feature the refreshing Venetian Spritz cocktail for $9 a glass.

DEEPSTACK EXTRAVAGANZA III AT VENETIAN HAS $16 MILLION PRIZE POOL

The Venetian® Poker Room will hold the 60-day, 90-event DeepStack Extravaganza III poker series from May 26-July 24 with $16 million in guaranteed prize pools. Warm-up events will begin on May 16. This mega-event has been running and growing since 2007 and in 2015 it hosted 25,565 players. DeepStack Extravaganza III will feature event buy-ins ranging from $200 to $5,000.

SPRING JAMBOREE OFFERS FAMILIES FUN IN BOULDER CITY

The 34th annual Spring Jamboree will transform the beautiful Boulder City parks into a family-friendly weekend festival May 7-8. The four parks in the historic downtown district will come to life with a classic hot-rod car show, hundreds of arts and crafts, live music and entertainment, children’s carnival, treats and beverages. New this year is the rock, gem and mineral show.

Spring Jamboree kicks off at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday morning at the gazebo. Event hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. This public event is free and attracts more than 35,000 visitors.

THE MOB MUSEUM IS OFFERING JAZZ NIGHTS ON FRIDAYS IN APRIL

As part of Jazz Appreciation Month, a speakeasy mood is filling The Mob Museum on Friday nights in April from 6 to 8 p.m. with jazz music, half-price drinks and no need for a password. This is a perfect fit since Prohibition created the Jazz Age of the 1920s, when gangsters owned the illegal booze trade and competed with small private speakeasies up to elaborate nightclubs. Las Vegas Academy of the Arts will perform on April 15 and 22, and the Las Vegas Jazz Trio will appear on April 29. Admittance is free for museum members or the price of admission to the museum.

TIVOLI VILLAGE HOSTS CHEF’S TABLE COMMUNITY DINNER FUNDRAISER

Tivoli Village will host a special under the stars dining event with The Chef’s Table on Sunday, April 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. benefiting Discovery Children’s Museum, as part of the organization’s 25th anniversary celebration. Guests will be seated along the cobblestone streets of the open-air shopping district and experience a five-course meal prepared and presented by five new chefs and dining concepts including Cantina Laredo, Vintner Grill, Peridot Sweets and others.

Each of the culinary all-stars will be challenged to make the museum exhibits come alive on each plate, drawing inspiration from some of the origination’s best known attractions such as Patents Pending, The Summit and Eco City. All courses will be expertly paired with select wines and there will be live entertainment from Las Vegas Academy stars, Thre3 Cards plus singer/song writer J. Liberio, along with a silent auction. Tickets for the family-style dinner are $150.

TIPS WORTH NOTING

In Las Vegas and Reno, uberESPAÑOL has been launched. This new feature is available to folks who have downloaded the free Uber app on their smartphone. It allows riders to request an uberX with a Spanish- speaking driver-partner. Nevada joins California, Illinois, Arizona and Texas as the fifth state to offer uberESPAÑOL.

The Plaza downtown will pay winners the amount of taxes they owe in free slot play on all taxable jackpots up to $20,000 on tax day, April 18.

Reminder Frankie Moreno is returning to the Las Vegas Strip with his new headlining show, “Under The Influence,” at Planet Hollywood opening on Saturday, April 23. Moreno has toured with Grammy-nominated artist Billy Currington and Sugarland and had sold-out performances at Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center. Tickets range from $33 to $88. His shows will be dark June 13-19.

American children’s fiction writer Kate DiCamillo from Minnesota will be holding a reading and signing of her seventh novel, “Raymie Nightingale,” at 6:30 p.m. on April 26 at the Historic Fifth Street School, which is free to the public. She is one of six people to win two Newbery Medals, recognizing her novels “The Tale of Despereaux” and “Flora and Ulysses.”

The Fremont Street Experience will host the 21st Annual Susan G. Komen Las Vegas Race for the Cure on Saturday, May 7 with registration starting at 6 a.m. Individuals can participate in a 5K (approximately 3.2 miles) or a 1-Mile Fun Walk. The Race will start at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Clark Avenue at 8:15 a.m. and finish at the intersection of Fremont East and 6th Street.

Las Vegas’ male hip-hop strip show “Aussie Hunks” visited Opportunity Village’s Engelstad campus and conducted a hip-hop dance class for OVIPs. The Aussie Hunks concluded the class by presenting the organization a generous donation.

The television viewership of the DENSO Spark Plugs NHRA Nationals held at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last weekend delivered 1,292,000 viewers on Sunday’s finals show alone, making it the most-watched NHRA event in 14 years.

On Thursday, April 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., OV Nation invites the public to attend the Maibock Tapping Party at Gordon Biersch, where 100 percent of silent auction and beer ticket sales will benefit Opportunity Village. Guests can be the first to taste Gordon Biersch’s Maibock, a seasonal unfiltered auburn lager.

To celebrate National Military Appreciation month, Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will offer all active duty military members and veterans with a valid military identification with a 20 percent discount during the month of May.

Beginning May 2 and throughout the summer, Palms Pool & Dayclub at Palms Casino Resort will honor different Las Vegas nonprofit charities with Cabanas for a Cause, an annual initiative offering $100 cabanas with proceeds aiding the featured charity of the week.

More DJ sets at Crazy Horse III gentlemen’s club are coming up with dancer, musician and actor, Kevin Federline, on Wednesday, April 13 and Saturdays, May 28 and June 18.

The+Source medical marijuana dispensary on South Rainbow Blvd. will host an awareness and fundraising event for Parkinson’s disease from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 19 and 20.

COMPOSER AND MUSICIAN JENNIFER BELLOR VISITS NEON MUSEUM

On Saturday and Sunday, April 23 and 24, at noon and 1 p.m., the Neon Museum will host its spring performing artist in residence, UNLV Visiting Lecturer in Composition and Theory Jennifer Bellor. This residency calls for the artist to create a project incorporating the outdoor space at the Neon Museum’s North Gallery. Reservations are required, call 702-387-6366 for this free public event.
Bellor’s winning proposal expressed her interest in crossing genres, combining the visual environment of the Neon Museum with her own new musical compositions and dance “to provide the audience with a completely new interpretation and stronger appreciation of the history” of Las Vegas. At the performance in the North Gallery, the audience will help her create layers of sound which will then be accompanied by a pianist, clarinetist and percussionist to compose a composition on the spot.

SHADE TREE CHOSEN AS 2016 EDC WEEK CHARITY AUCTION RECIPIENT

Insomniac – the production company behind North America’s largest dance music festival, Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) – has revealed nonprofit, The Shade Tree has been selected as beneficiary of Insomniac’s second “EDC Week Charity Auction.”

Following last year’s success, Insomniac has again partnered with eBay For Charity to produce a 10-day auction where EDC fans can bid on unbelievable experiences, giving them exclusive access to the festival, the artists, multiple Las Vegas hot spots and more. Last year, the auction raised approximately $70,000. Additional details for this year will be announced on Monday, April 25.

EDC Las Vegas returns to Las Vegas Motor Speedway from dusk until dawn June 17–19 to celebrate “20 Years Under The Electric Sky.”

INAUGURAL KICKBALL TOURNAMENT WILL BE CANCER FUNDRAISER

The Las Vegas Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities is teaming with the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation in the fight against childhood cancer by hosting the inaugural Kick-It Las Vegas kickball tournament on Saturday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The family friendly event will take place at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas intramural fields. Anyone age 6 and above is eligible to play, with teams of 12 to 15 players squaring off in a bracket-style tournament for fun and prizes. A $35 donation is required for each player, and awards will be given to the top three teams, as well as to the team with the most creative uniform. Participants may sign up as individuals or register full teams for the day-long event.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, April 17, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

TITANIC

ARTIFACTS ON VIEW AT LUXOR WILL BE RETIRED JULY 18

Seven priceless artifacts recovered from the RMS Titanic wreck site will be retired from public view and returned to its conservation facility after a three-month special engagement April 15-July 18 at the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition inside at the Luxor.

These treasures will be displayed for a final time after the accident that happened 104 years ago and took the lives of 1,523 passengers and crew. This is nearly 30 years after the artifacts were brought from the wreck site to the ocean’s surface.

All seven artifacts, which include textiles, personal goods and paper documents, will be housed in a special conservation case. Textiles and paper products are incredibly rare as they usually deteriorate in the marine environment.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is open daily from 10 a.m.–10 p.m. with the last admission at 9 p.m.

COUNTRY STARS OLD DOMINION WILL PERFORM AT SANTA FE STATION

Fresh off their first Academy of Country Music Awards win in the New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year category, rising country stars Old Dominion will return to Las Vegas for a special performance at the Chrome Showroom inside Santa Fe Station on Friday, May 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20, $30 and $40.

Old Dominion released their first full-length album “Meat and Candy” in 2015. The band that has spent seven years honing their craft is currently headlining the Meat and Candy Tour and watching their second single, “Snapback” moving up the charts.

SPEEDVEGAS’ TRACK OPENS TO THE PUBLIC

SPEEDVEGAS officially opened the track for the public last Friday marking the first in a series of opening events for Las Vegas’ newest adrenaline attraction. This summer the rest of the $30 million motorsports complex will open, including the 22,000-square-foot, two-story welcome center with indoor and outdoor observation decks, café and meetings and event space.

SPEEDVEGAS is located at 14200 S. Las Vegas Blvd., just minutes south of the world-famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign.

NACHO DADDY EXPANDS WITH NEW LOCATION AT MIRACLE MILE SHOPS

Nacho Daddy will open its fourth Las Vegas location this summer in mid-August at Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. The restaurant chain made its mark in Las Vegas in 2010 and has a presence in Henderson, Summerlin, and Downtown. Nacho Daddy is known for Mexican cuisine including its signature nachos and combination plates, margaritas and famous Scorpion Shot.

Locally owned and operated, Nacho Daddy will step up its game for the Strip location with more than 6,000 square feet, 32 foot ceilings, seating for approximately 230 people, big screen TVs, a large bar that opens to the patio, and a private room for parties.

WAFFLE BAR OPENS AT TIVOLI VILLAGE

Waffle Bar, a casual sit-down restaurant serving authentic Liege waffles and crepes made with a variety of fresh and specially imported ingredients from Belgium, has opened at Tivoli Village directly below Market LV and next to Brio. Some menu staples include the Waffle Sandwich with deli meat, Pizza Waffle, and Chicken and Waffles. For folks with dietary restrictions, there are vegetarian and gluten-free options along with min sizes, perfect for kids. Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily with prices ranging from $5.99 - $12.99.

THE SCINTAS EXTEND THEIR RUN AT THE PLAZA THROUGH NOVEMBER

Las Vegas’ first family of entertainment, the Scintas, is extending their limited engagement performance schedule of their highly regarded music and comedy show through November 2016 at the Plaza, where they opened last February. Their schedule will be to perform at 7:30 p.m., two select Friday and Saturday nights every month. Upcoming dates include May 6-7, 13-14 and June 3-4, 24-25.

The Scintas, brothers Frankie and Joe, “honorary Scinta” Peter O’Donnell and newest addition, Janien Valentine, have become a fixture in Las Vegas for the past 16 years. Tickets start at $29 for general admission and $49 for VIP. A special “dinner and a show” package is available for $99, which includes a three-course prix fix dinner at Oscar’s steakhouse.

COMEDY SUPERSTARS UNITE AT 24/7 COMEDYFEST AT ORLEANS ARENA

A night of laughter is in store as top comedians Billy Gardell from “Mike & Molly,” Frank Caliendo with spot-on impressions, and Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling from “The Howard Stern Show” for 18 years join others headlining the 24/7 ComedyFest at the Orleans Arena on April 23 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $40.

Bobby Slayton, often referred to as “The Pitbull of Comedy,” is most recognized in movies such as “Get Shorty,” “Ed Wood,” “Bandits” and “Dreamgirls.” Actor and comedian Brian Scolaro is most known for this appearances on “Conan”, as Doug on TBS’s “Sullivan & Son,” and as Stuart on FOX’s “Stacked.” Steve “Mudflap” McGrew is a regular at Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, The Laugh Factory and Sin City Comedy Club in Las Vegas.

RITA RUDNER APPEARS AT RED ROCK RESORT

Here’s a bargain, sharp-witted comedienne Rita Rudner will be doing her stand-up comedy show highlighting her trademark epigrammatic style in the Rocks Lounge at the Red Rock Resort on Friday and Saturday, April 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30 and $40.

Recently, Rudner recorded her first stand up TV special in over a decade “Rita Rudner: Live From Las Vegas” for PBS and a radio series for the BBC. This talent, who was a dancer on Broadway at age 15, made the leap from chorus lines to punchlines in the early 1980s and never turned back. She’s also the author of five books, including the best-selling “Naked Beneath My Clothes,” “I Still Have It…I Just Can’t Remember Where I Put It” and “Rita Rudner’s Guide to Men.”

LOCAL DISTILLING COMPANY WINS BIG AT WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION

Nevada H&C Distilling Company, owned by Jonathan Hensleigh and Aaron Chepenik, who in 2007 co-founded The Griffin in the Fremont East Entertainment District downtown, recently won two coveted awards at the 16th annual San Francisco World Spirits Competition ® (SFWSC). The company’s Smoke Wagon Bourbon, in the “aged up to five years” category, took home gold and its Silver Dollar Vodka won silver. In total, nearly 1,900 other entries from around the world participated in the competition that was judged by a tasting panel of 39 highly experienced judges.

Nevada H&C Distilling Company currently operates out of a portion of a leased building at 418 W. Mesquite Ave. The company has purchased more than three adjacent acres for the purposes of expanding the business. Their plans are to construct 10,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space, as well as an additional 9,000 square feet of storage space in two buildings. The company’s products are distributed by Break Thru Beverage Group (formerly Wirtz).

FOXTAIL® POOL AT SLS HAS STAR LINEUP FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Beginning Saturday, May 28, Foxtail Pool at SLS Las Vegas® will host a three-day extravaganza with hip-hop legends to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend. The renowned roster will feature performances by: chart topping performer Flo Rida (May 28); world-famous rapper Yo Gotti (May 28-30); Grammy Award-winning artist Lil Wayne and hip-hop heavyweight Ty Dolla $ign (May 29); and iconic lyricist, Ja Rule (May 30).

SKY BEACH CLUB ANNOUNCES CELEBS FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Sky Beach Club, the new daylife experience at the Tropicana has announced a star-studded Memorial Day Weekend lineup with Hollywood couple Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna hosting on Saturday, May 28 and rapper 50 Cent doing the honors on Sunday, May 29.

BROOKLYN BOWL ANNOUNCES FOUR NEW CONCERTS FOR SUMMER

Brooklyn Bowl has lined up four more new concerts for this summer including: New Orleans-jazz icons Preservation Hall Jazz Band Thursday, June 9; Rastafarian reggae singer Tarrus Riley Thursday, July 7; notoriously-barefoot Michael Franti & Spearhead Friday, Aug. 26; and post-rock instrumental outfit Explosions In The Sky Sunday, Aug. 28. Shows are at 9 or 9:30 p.m. and tickets range from $20 to $35 depending on the act.

Shows already announced for this summer include: Blue October (May 4); Caravan Palace (May 5); Morgan Heritage (May 15); Dru Hill (June 18); Toad The Wet Sprocket & Rusted Root (July 11); The Claypool Lennon Delirium (July 31); and Kurt Vile and The Violators (Aug.16).

SHORT ENTERTAINMENT HIGHLIGHTS

Rockers from the 1980s, Night Ranger will bring smash hits like “Sister Christian” to The Orleans Showroom May 14 and 15 with performances at 8 p.m. With a career spanning more than three decades, Night Ranger has sold more than 17 million albums and performed for audiences around the world. The band released its 10th studio album, “High Road,” in 2014. Tickets start at $34.95.

American indie rockers Kurt Vile and The Violators will bring eclectic American rock music to Brooklyn Bowl on Monday, Aug. 15 at 8 p.m. Vile is riding a wave of acclaim from his sixth studio album “b’lieve i’m goin’ down” that was recorded all across the United States and released last September. Tickets start at $20.

This month, Damian Brantley returns as Michael Jackson in “Legends in Concert” in the Donny & Marie Showroom at the Flamingo. In Las Vegas’ longest-running show celebrating 32 years, Brantley will be joining the current cast including: Adele portrayed by JC Brando’ fan-favorite the Blues Brothers, portrayed by Eric Martin and Carmen Romano; and music titan Prince portrayed by Frank Moore.

The Lon Bronson All-Star Band takes over the stage at Club Madrid at 10 p.m. inside on the first and third Thursday of every month and there’s no cover charge. On Friday nights Yellow Brick Road turns up the music at 10 p.m. and there’s a $5 cover charge.

Gay singer Steve Grand will appear in concert on Friday and Saturday, May 13 and 14 at 8:30 p.m. at Share Nightclub located 4636 Wynn Road. He is a nationally known YouTube sensation with more than 10 million views, a No. 3 album on the Billboard Independent Album Artists Charts, and one of the most successful music Kickstarter campaigns ever.

Helldorado Art Show and Auction IS COMING UP

Helldorado Days’ Art Show and Auction features Western-themed artwork by local artists in any type of medium. The public is invited to submit an entry. The Art Show will run April 28-30 and be open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. at the Las Vegas Elks Lodge on West Charleston. There will be and Art Auction & Reception on Sunday, May 1 from 2-5 p.m. with proceeds going to local charities.

This event will be followed by Helldorado Days Rodeo week which includes an annual parade Downtown, whiskerino contest, Pub crawl and street dance, and more.

SEVENTH annual greenfest PLANNED AT DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN®

Free public event GREENFest, co-founded by the GREEN Alliance and Republic Services, will celebrate Earth Day at Downtown Summerlin® on Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. with more than 150 exhibitors. Other event attractions include interactive displays, arts and crafts, market place, beer and wine garden, kids zone, pet adoptions, petting zoo, live entertainment and conservation exhibits. There will be a Drive Clean Energy Las Vegas procession from 8 to 9 a.m. starting at Las Vegas Cyclery.

SCIENCE-TECHNOLOGY FESTIVAL WILL OFFER NINE DAYS OF FREE EVENTS

The Las Vegas Science & Technology Festival will return for its sixth year from Friday, April 29 through Saturday, May 7. The Festival has become one of the state’s largest educational events. This year’s festival will offer nearly 40 free events all across Southern Nevada over nine days. It will culminate on May 7 with the Giant Science & Technology Expo, packed with interactive activities, demonstrations, and entertainment from more than 80 organizations throughout the valley from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cashman Center.

MGM GRAND HOSTS 18TH ANNUAL TIGER JAM POKER EVENT

Tiger’s Poker Night presented by the World Poker Tour® (WPT®), an exclusive charity poker tournament hosted by Tiger Woods and with an $11,000 buy-in, will be held at the MGM Grand on Friday, April 29. Poker professional Phil Hellmuth will emcee the high-stakes tournament during the 18th annual Tiger Jam event on the casino floor in front of the KÀ Theatre at approximately 7:15 p.m. Participants will have opportunity to play with some of the world’s top poker players including David Williams, Maria Ho and others.

ABOUT TOWN NEWS

The Habit Burger Grill, known for its award-winning Charburgers, plans to open a second location in a southwest neighborhood on the corner of Blue Diamond Road and Decatur this summer. The new restaurant will have 58 dining seats, including indoor and outdoor dining, and a drive-thru window.

Atomic Style Lounge, a retro-themed beauty salon and store for men and women, celebrated its grand opening in the trendy downtown Las Vegas Arts District at 1237 S. Main Street.

Actor Russell Crowe attended Blue Man Group at the Luxor recently and visited with the trio afterwards.

The Shakespeare Institute of Nevada will hold “A Taste of Shakespeare at the Container Park” on Saturday, April 23 from noon-6 p.m. featuring live, outdoor Shakespeare performances. The event is part of the worldwide celebration of the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare who was born and also died on April 23. There will also be an after show photo opportunity with cast members. Tickets are $5, and the event is open to all ages.

The all-you-can-eat Gospel Brunch at House of Blues will change its name to House of Blues Gospel Brunch on May 1 and cost $54.50 and $27.50 for a child under 11 with two seatings at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Spring Festival 2015 hosted by fresh52 inside of Tivoli Village will take place Saturday, April 30 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The free festival will feature food and beer trucks, live entertainment, kids gardening, games and prizes, a petting zoo, local farm fresh produce, makers and crafters, artists, chefs, tasting and DIY workshops.

Host of the “The Price Is Right” Drew Carey earned his wings recently experiencing bodyflight at Vegas Indoor Skydiving and posed for photos with his flight instructor.

XS Nightclub at Wynn will celebrate the return of its Sunday NightSwim with a grand opening party with DJ / Producer Alesso on May 1. Seasonal Sunday NightSwim opened this weekend and will run through September and features some the biggest names in electric dance music including Skrillex, Alesso, Major Lazer, and David Guetta on Memorial Day Weekend.

New for spring at Loco Cantina in Town Square and only on the second floor patio is the PVT shot made with tequila infused for nearly two weeks with pineapple and vanilla. The tequila is and made by Loco Cantina’s bartenders. A shot is $3.

At the Tivoli Village Main Stage, David Barton Gym is hosting a heart-pumping boot camp class every Saturday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and relaxing yoga class every Sunday from 10-11 a.m. Classes are free and no reservation is required.

David Marler will be the guest speaker for the Saturday, April 30 Distinguished Lecture Series at the National Atomic Testing Museum. His talk at 7 p.m. is “Triangular UFOs.” Marler has been featured in UFO documentaries seen on the History Channel and Discovery Channel. Event is free, RSVP by calling 702-794-5151.

Preview Thursday is the Thursday prior to First Friday held in downtown Las Vegas. Many galleries and other businesses in 18b-The Las Vegas Arts District open their doors so serious art buyers can beat the crowds and mingle with other art lovers.

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB EXTENDS ITS REACH

Last Thursday, Double Barrel Roadhouse at Monte Carlo started stand-up comedy from Bonkerz Comedy Club. Every Thursday, Bonkerz Comedy Club will liven up the Strip’s rowdy roadhouse with a new lineup of comedians. Warren Durso as seen in “Cutoff” and “Even Money” will perform April 21 followed by Bobby Wayne Stauts on April 28.

Bonkerz Comedy Club is held on select dates inside the Pahrump Nugget Event Center in Pahrump, Nev., an hour’s drive west of Las Vegas. Upcoming comedians include: Laura Hayden as seen on “Stand-up in Stilettos” on Friday, April 22 at 7 p.m.; Kyle Marlett, The Original Nerd of Comedy, as seen on “The Tonight Show” on Sunday, May 1 at 2 p.m.; and Jimmy Earll who is a Filipino-American born in French Canada on Sunday, May 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 and come with a free $5 slot play.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, April 24, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

D LAS VEGAS OWNERS ACQUIRE MORE FREMONT STREET REAL ESTATE

Derek and Greg Stevens, owners of the D Las Vegas, Golden Gate and the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, are continuing to invest in the downtown development by purchasing the land adjacent to their newly owned Las Vegas Club, which is currently occupied by three Granite Gaming Group properties including Mermaids and La Bayou casinos, and adult entertainment Topless Girls of Glitter Gulch. Granite Gaming Group will continue operations of each venue until their anticipated closing date of June 27.

On March 15, the brothers were awarded the winning bid for Clark County’s Bridger Building on 3rd Street, which they purchased for the internal growth of their company.

‘ZARKANA’ SET TO CLOSE APRIL 30 AT ARIA

The time has arrived due to expansion for Cirque du Soleil’s “Zarkana” to close on Saturday, April 30 at Aria. The announcement was made last year that the show would close so that the theater can be turned into a four-story 200,000-square-foot expansion to the resort’s convention center. Construction should begin in May and be done by Februrary 2018 for an estimated cost of $154 million.

SUNCOAST OPENS LEGENDARY DU-PAR’S DINER

Southern California’s established and legendary 75-year-old diner brand – Du-par’s Restaurant and Bakery – has opened at the Suncoast with its signature buttermilk pancakes, made-from-scratch pies, and much more. Du-par’s is the latest new dining concept to debut at Boyd Group’s Suncoast, following last November’s opening of Brigg’s Oyster Co.

Du-par’s diner-style restaurant chain was founded in 1938 at the Los Angeles Farmers Market by James Dunn and Edward Parsons, who combined their surnames to create the brand title. The chain was purchased in 2004 by an investor group led by W.W. “Biff” Naylor, the son of noted California restaurateur “Tiny” Naylor. The relationship between the Boyd and Naylor families dates back to the late 1950s in Las Vegas, when Tiny Naylor worked with Sam Boyd at The Mint Casino downtown. Naylor oversaw the property’s food and beverage operations for several years, while Boyd served as vice president and general manager of the property until the late 1960s.

THE PATIO AT MRKT AT ALIANTE WILL OPEN FOR LUNCH

Aliante on Monday, May 2 will debut a stylish new outdoor café, The Patio at MRKT that will be open through the warmer months Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m, and serve an array of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. The Patio at MRKT will include an exclusive exterior entrance, separate from the casino, for ease of entry and exit.

THRIVE CANNABIS MARKETPLACE HOLDS FIRST FRIDAY PREVIEW EVENT

THRIVE Cannabis Marketplace, downtown’s newest and largest medical cannabis dispensary, will host a one-time-only opportunity for the public to visit the facility and learn about the benefits of medicinal marijuana on Friday, May 6 from 4-9 p.m. The event will feature food and drink, live entertainment, raffle prizes and free parking. There will be no cannabis products on the premises that day so everyone can tour the 10,000-square-foot facility. THRIVE will open for business on Friday, May 13.

SPEEDVEGAS AND SAMBALATTE FORGE A PARTNERSHIP

Sambalatte, the Las Vegas-based coffee bar and lounge experience will open its new location at the $30 million SPEEDVEGAS motorsports complex this summer. The new space will serve as SPEEDVEGAS’ café, offering Sambalatte’s coffee and tea experience paired with a collection of breakfast starters, sandwiches, salads and soups. SPEEDVEGAS’ Sambalatte will also offer coffee tastings with a Q-Grade (quality) certified specialist. The décor will feature their signature comfort-meets-industrial chic ambience.

ORLEANS ARENA HOSTS ‘SECOND CHANCE PROM’ CONCERT

Celebrated 1980s and 1990s musical artists will perform some of their greatest radio dance hits at the Orleans Arena for “Second Chance Prom,” a concert presented by SUNNY 106.5 on May 14 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $35.
The lineup includes: multi-platinum-selling artists En Vogue; Exposé the first girl group with seven back-to-back Top 10 Billboard hits; 1980s teen pop sensation Tiffany; American family band The Jets; R&B band Club Nouveau; Oregon natives Nu Shooz; Timmy T who rose to fame with his 1991 single “One More Try;” and a surprise special guest to be announced.

‘AMERICAN IDOL’ CHAMP DAVID COOK WILL PERFORM AT SUNSET STATION

“American Idol” champion David Cook is returning to Las Vegas for a performance at Sunset Station. Cook, who won season seven, will perform Friday, May 20 at 8 p.m. inside Club Madrid. Tickets are $20, $30 and $40.

After auditioning for “American Idol” on a whim in 2008, Cook wound up winning the competition and later released his self-titled major label debut album, which sold more than one million copies. His most recent album“Digital Vein” was released in 2015.

ARTLIVE! WILL BE HELD AT THE SMITH CENTER

The event artLIVE! Phlilanthropic affair will take place on Thursday, May 12 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at The Smith Center with five actives stages and more than a dozen acts and for the second year will be emceed by entertainer Clint Holmes. The event includes various artistic presentations, a silent auction, a fashion show, music, dance performances, food and beverage as well as signature art presentations brought together by several local artists and fashion designers.

Two local community entities representing both art and fashion will be honored; art collector and philanthropist Patrick Duffy and Saks Fifth Avenue. Some of the event’s Madison mannequins are currently on display at locations throughout Las Vegas. Tickets are $150 and $35 for students.

SAN GENNARO FEAST MOVES TO CRAIG RANCH REGIONAL PARK

The 37th Annual San Gennaro Feast will take place Wednesday-Sunday, May 4-8 at Craig Ranch Regional Park and feature 70 restaurant food booths, 60 amusements rides, flume ride, 80-foot petting zoo, pony rides and piglets, midway games, arts and crafts booths, and continuous live music. Tickets are $10 and free for children 54 inches and under. Parking is free.

JOE NICHOLS WILL HEADLINE COUNTRY IN THE PARK AT MOUNTAIN’S EDGE

Mountain’s Edge Master Planned Community and 95.5 The Bull are sponsoring the 10th annual Country in the Park on Saturday, May 7 from 2 to 8 p.m. The free concert and festival will be headlined by country’s Joe Nichols at 6 p.m. and feature rising country star Brett Young at 5 p.m. Local country rock band Thrillbilly Deluxe will kick off the show from 2-4 p.m. in the community’s amphitheater in Exploration Park. Other activities will include: a beer garden, food vendors, booths, exhibits, kids activities, and more. Picnic baskets, chairs, blankets and well-behaved leashed pets are welcome but not alcohol, coolers and glass.

ARIZONA CHARLIE’S DECATUR CELEBRATES ITS 28TH ANNIVERSARY

Arizona’s Charlie’s Decatur will celebrate its 28th anniversary on Friday, April 29 with free cake and champagne for all guests at the casino’s main entrance from noon–6 p.m. The resort was named after a real-life member of Buffalo Bill’s Rodeo deemed Arizona Charlie. The western-themed hotel rightfully is proud of its Ron’s Steakhouse, which is the recipient of six Open Table Diner’s Choice Awards and named after former Las Vegas mayor and the hotel’s sole manager, Ron Lurie. It also has the only 24-hour bingo in town.

IT’S TIME FOR 21ST ANNUAL RACE FOR THE CURE®

Registration is open for the 21st Annual Race for the Cure® will be held Saturday, May 7 at 8:15 a.m. at the Fremont Street Experience (FSE) to raise money to fight breast cancer. Survivors and their guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast inside the Pretty in Pink Cafe starting at 6 a.m. with festivities on the Third Street Stage beginning at 6:45 a.m. For the sixth year, MGM Resorts International is sponsoring Kids for the Cure®, a kids activity area at 4th Street and FSE. Entertainment at the race will be provided by a variety of singers and dancers, most notably, the dance troupe “Jabbawockeez” and the cast of “Rock of Ages.”

DREAM FLIGHT EVENT WILL BENEFIT MIRACLE FLIGHTS AND CHILDREN

The Dream Flight fundraising charity event Hangar Party being held on Saturday, May 14 at the Cirrus Aircraft Hangar, Atlantic – Executive Terminal from 6-10 p.m. will feature live musical performances, celebrity appearances, an open bar, pop-up nightclub, celebrity chefs, restaurants and much more. Each purchased ticket will enter a guest into a drawing to win a seat on “The Dream Flight,” which will be a foodie tour weekend June 2- 5 via a Cirrus Aviation private plane that will head to San Francisco, Seattle and back. General admission is $199.

SPRINGS PRESERVE LOADS UP MAY WITH FESTIVALS

The ‘Ohana Festival, a family-friendly celebration of Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture, will be held at the Springs Preserve on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Highlighting the importance of ‘ohana (family) in Pacific Island cultures, the event will feature food, live music, performances by local hula schools, an outdoor luau with kids games, and more. Admission is $5, and children, ages 2 and under are free.

The annual all-you-can-eat Ice Cream Festival follows on Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The family-friendly event will feature stations serving ice cream sundaes, novelties and root beer floats, plus live entertainment by Chimps on a Blimp face painting, storytelling, a pirate magic show, carnival games, a bubble play station and more. At 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., the Kids Cactus Ice Cream Lesson will help kids discover the science of making ice cream, learn about the edible parts of a cactus, and create their own ice cream flavor, cost is $3. Festival admission is $10 for adults, $8 for children 3-12, with ages 2 and under free.

The seventh annual Brews & Blues Festival will offer beers from regional, national and international brewers. Each ticket includes a sampling mug and unlimited beer samples. This event on Saturday, May 28 from 4-8 p.m. is for ages 21 and older only. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 day-of (if available), $75 VIP. Springs Preserve members receive $5 off.

TIPS AND CLIPS

CBS Radio has the SUN. POOL. FUN. (SPF) concert celebration is returning on Sunday, May 15 and featuring Iggy Azalea, Alessia Cara, Lukas Graham, Fifth Harmony, Kygo and Mike Posner at The Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
The Park on the Strip will host its first art event celebrating local artists April 27-29. A live District Artz Guerrilla Artist Show will feature seven artists painting live on Guerrilla Kages, tri-sided eight-foot tall, six-foot wide canvases. These talented artists will be onsite creating artworks from 4–10 p.m. Admission is complimentary.

First Friday from 5-11 p.m. will feature “Art through the Ages” for the May 6 event and include a Farmer’s Market curated by the Intuitive Forager. Five artists will be live painting in costume and in the style of historic artists – meet “Frida Kahlo,” “Vincent Van Gogh” and more. Art Beyond the Paintbrush will focus on a group of artisans (weavers, scribes, carvers, quilters) who interact with the crowd.

Triple George Grill will host a special prix fixe five-course Sonoma County wine dinner on Friday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a 9:30 p.m. performance by jazz singer Laura Shaffer. Cost is $110.

In honor of winning the prestigious 2016 Sports Bar of the Year award at the Nightclub & Bar Awards, Lagasse Stadium® at The Palazzo® is hosting a series of celebration beer-pairing dinners April 27 ($55), May 4 and 11, as part of a three-week celebration. Scott Pajak, Lagasse’s Stadium Chef de Cuisine and champion of Food Network’s hit TV show “Chopped,” is presenting the upscale casual fare; call 702-607-2665.

Commonly referred to as the CES of booze, the recent 73rd annual Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America Convention opened with Christie Brinkley and a ribbon cutting while she promoted her new line of Prosecco, Bellissima. After the opener, the crowd moved to the Augustus Ballroom to see actor Channing Tatum unveil his new vodka, Born & Bred.

The Southern Nevada Wildland Fire Awareness Half Marathon and 5K Run will be held May 1 from 8 a.m.–noon at the new Spring Mountain Visitor’s Gateway at Mt. Charleston. All proceeds will be donated to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation. Cost is $40 and includes a tech t-shirt, goodie bag, finisher’s medal, snacks and refreshments. There will be a variety of fire engines and educational displays.

Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at Monte Carlo is offering a $110 five- and $135 seven-course tasting menu with a choice between one of two items in each pairing. Wine pairing is an additional $95, call 702-798-7151.

Wine Amplified “Plugged-In” tickets at the new T-Mobile Arena on Saturday, April 30 to see Billy Joel include an intimate wine tasting with more than 14 wines in a private VIP area before the show.

On Sunday, May 1, Wine Amplified will be back at The Joint inside the Hard Rock with superstar Eric Church. “Plugged In” tickets will include 14-plus wines in a designated area on the showroom floor.

The Stratosphere in honor of its 20th anniversary, will be offering a trifecta of specials for locals on Sunday, May 1, which will include complimentary access to the Observation Tower, $20 entry for two to the buffet, and $20 unlimited ride pass to experience the X-Scream, Insanity and Big Shot rides.

Life Time Athletic Green Valley in Henderson from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday is offering the club’s happy hour specials: $6 and $8 appetizers, $6 select cocktails, $1 off tap and bottled beer, and $2 off wine by the glass. There’s entertainment Friday-Sunday nights. The pool is open daily to Life Time members at no cost and to non-members for $20 per guest.

Shake Shack at New York-New York is continuing their effort to Stand For Something Good® by partnering with Children’s Heart Foundation in Southern Nevada. Plus, both Shake Shack locations have a new local bakery partner, teaming up with The Cupcakery for two of the specialty concretes only available in Las Vegas.

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATIONS

The new Dog Haus Vegas on Paradise Road will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with happy hour and drink specials on Thursday, May 5. They will feature $5 tequila shots and happy hour all day. Happy hour food and drink specials include dog, burger and corndog sliders, fries and tater tots for $1.25 each, along with two-for-one craft beers and red and white Haus wine.

TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace has a tequila cocktail for toasting to Mexico. Stronger than margaritas will be the Mariachi Mule made with two ounces Sweet Heat Tequila, four ounces Crabbie’s Ginger Beer and fresh squeezed lime for $12.

Social media personality and international model Jessa Hinton will host Tacos & Tequila’s “Sexy de Mayo Très” fiesta in honor of Cinco de Mayo from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, May 5.

MOTHER’S DAY PROMOTIONS

On Mother’s Day a “Moms Fly Free” promotion will be held at Vegas Indoor Skydiving on Sunday, May 8 from 9:45 a.m. to 8 p.m. All moms who visit will fly free and receive a complimentary Mother’s Day cupcake courtesy of The Cupcakery, with the purchase of one single flight at retail price. Single flight tickets are $75, with repeat flights on the same day $50.

On Mother’s Day, Walker Furniture will be giving a free box of See’s Candies to mothers who visit the showroom on May 8. No purchase is necessary. There’s a limit of one box per mom while supplies last. Visitors can also register for a chance to win the $1,000 Room of Dreams Give-a-way.

KENTUCKY DERBY INSPIRES COCKTAILS

La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn will celebrate Kentucky Derby tradition with a signature “Kentucky Mule,” debuting on Saturday, May 7. Rich in Kentucky whiskey flavor, the drink is made with Eagle Rare Bourbon Whiskey, Fever Tree ginger beer, mint leaves and lime wedges served in a chilled copper mug for $16.

Aliante will serve a Julep cocktail featuring basil and gin in honor of the Kentucky Derby at MRKT Sea & Land, and drink specials including $2 beers and $3 Traditional Kentucky Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps all weekend long at the Race & Sports Book, May 5-8.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, May 1, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

DOUBLE WHAMMY HAPPENING: INTRIGUE AT WYNN – JEWEL AT ARIA

Out of the gate last week Intrigue nightclub at Wynn was unveiled in the remodeled space formerly occupied by Tryst nightclub for 10 years until last November and it’s a change from the former big-box mega-club approach. Seal was the opening superstar headliner.

Intrigue, a 14,000-square-foot venue with state-of-the-art lighting and sound, can accommodate up to 1,200 guests and entertainment with contemporary party music. A new glass enclosed patio allows year-round viewing of the venue’s waterfall and new pyrotechnics show. In addition, it has a 1,200-square-foot private club within the club with the ultimate in privacy. From month to month, the club will take on a different look and feel with color palates changing frequently.

Hakkasan Group’s new Jewel Nightclub will open at Aria on Thursday, May 19 and span more than 24,000 square feet of precisely designed space. The talent lineup for opening weekend includes: guest host Jamie Foxx with DJ Irie – May 19; a surprise guest – May 20; The Chainsmokers May 21; and Lil Jon May 23.

BOYD GAMING IS ACQUIRING ALIANTE AND CANNERY PROPERTIES

Las Vegas-based Boyd Gaming is buying two Cannery Casino Resorts for $230 million and Aliante in North Las Vegas for $380 million. These purchases will bring Boyd’s holdings to 12 properties in Southern Nevada. After approval these deals are expected to close in the third quarter this year.

The 201-room Cannery in North Las Vegas off I-15 opened in early January 2003. The property has an 80,000-square-foot casino, five restaurants, five bars, a 30,000-square-foot entertainment venue and a 14-screen movie theater.

The 307-room Eastside Cannery on Boulder Highway has a 64,000-square-foot casino, five restaurants and four bars, 20,000 square feet of meeting and ballroom space and a 250-seat entertainment lounge.

ALL-MALE REVUE ‘STEELE’ OPENED AT TOMMY WIND THEATER

“Steele” is a new male revue that just opened at the Tommy Wind Theater on the Strip. Show producer London Steele was the inspiration for the character Dallas in the hit film “Magic Mike.” The production features eight sexually-charged dance numbers highlighting a fireman fantasy, military hunks in formation, country personalities and much more. Shows are Wednesday through Sunday beginning at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $49.95 and VIP $69.95.

TAYLOR DAYNE JOINS ‘SECOND CHANCE PROM’ LINEUP AT ORLEANS ARENA

Celebrated 1980s and ‘90s musical artists will perform some of their greatest radio dance hits at the Orleans Arena for “Second Chance Prom,” a concert presented by SUNNY 106.5 on May 14 at 7:30 p.m. A surprise special guest will be announced at a later date. Tickets are available from $35.

Vocal powerhouse Taylor Dayne just joined the lineup, and will perform her timeless hits “Love Will Lead You Back” and “Tell It to My Heart.” Other acts will include:
multi-platinum-selling artists En Vogue; Exposé the first girl group to have seven back-to-back top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100; teen pop sensation Tiffany who recorded her hit song at age 15; The Jets; Club Nouveau; Nu Shooz; and Timmy T.

DONNY OSMOND HOME™ WILL OPEN GALLERY AT WALKER FURNITURE

Walker Furniture will become the exclusive Las Vegas retailer for Donny Osmond Home (DOH) brand furnishings. The Grand Opening for the gallery will be held Saturday, May 7 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with Osmond doing a personal meet-and-greet autograph-signing session from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. following the ribbon cutting in Walker’s Showroom Atrium.

Festivities during the Grand Opening will include drawings every 15 minutes for a pair of tickets to the “Donny & Marie” show at the Flamingo. Also, guests can enter for a chance to win a DOH three-drawer accent cabinet. Free gifts will be given away and refreshments will be served.

STRATOSPHERE UNVEILS COMPLETELY REMODELED ELATION POOL

The Stratosphere’s completely-renovated and renamed Elation Pool™ now open on the eighth floor of the hotel offers guests city views and an array of poolside amenities including new cabanas and daybeds, ice-cold beverages and food from Elation’s Café and a new bar. Premium plasma TVs and new custom hot tubs complete the resort pool experience.

Elation Pool hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the bar and grill opening at 10 a.m. Admission for hotel guests is presentation of their room key, for non-hotel guests is $10, and for those who sign-up for “Take Vegas Back” there is a discounted admission of $5.

Now the Stratosphere provides two pool options – Elation Pool for all ages, and Radius Rooftop Pool & Wet Lounge on the 25th floor for adults.

NEW PT’S GOLD OPENS IN HENDERSON

PT’s Entertainment Group, a division of Golden Entertainment, and the largest traditional tavern operator in Nevada, opened a new PT’s Gold location at 1540 West Sunset Road in Henderson. This marks 15th PT’s Gold, a concept Golden Entertainment branded in 2003.

The company recently announced a new menu for all of its PT’s Gold locations, which also offer 50 percent off drinks and pizzas during happy hour, 5-7 p.m. and midnight to 2 a.m. daily, and 50 percent off breakfast from 6-10 a.m. each day.

IT’S TIME FOR ELKS HELLDORADO DAYS RODEO WEEK

The city of Las Vegas’ longest running civic event is Helldorado Days, an annual cowboy-themed outdoor charitable festival and tribute to the Wild West. The event began in 1935 and is produced by the Elks Lodge.

Rodeo week is three days packed with rodeo action, Western tributes, a carnival atmosphere with a whiskerino contest, live music, exhibits, vendors, food and more. The new, rodeo grounds are directly across the Strip from the Luxor.

NEW KISS ATTRACTION AT RIO WILL INCLUDE A WEDDING CHAPEL

Couples will soon be able to get married at the LOVE IT LOUD Rock & Roll Wedding Chapel at KISS® By Monster Mini Golf®. The new venue will open May 19 inside the Rio and set the stage for weddings, vow renewals and commitment ceremonies with an all-new stage, expanded lineup of rock n’ roll ministers, and wedding packages that make the big day a walk in Paradise City.

WILL ARNETT TO HOST 2016 NHL AWARDS AT HARD ROCK

The NHL Awards™ will return to Las Vegas and be held for the first time at the Hard Rock Hotel this summer on Wednesday, June 22 at The Joint. The awards show will be hosted by actor Will Arnett. This will be the eighth year of a successful partnership between Las Vegas and the league and the seventh time the NHL will honor the best hockey players in the world and the top performances of the season in Las Vegas.

RESTAURANTS CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO

La Comida downtown will keep the tequila and beer flowing with “Cinco de Drinko,” a three-day triple fiesta from May 5-7 celebrating Cinco de Mayo, the cantina’s three-year anniversary and the birthday of resident “funologist” John ‘JOD’ O’Donnell. All three days will include Mariachi performing, piñata smashings and the “Cinco Trio” - a fish taco, a Coronita and shot of Milagro tequila for $9.99.

Hard Rock Hotel’s Mexican cantina Pink Taco will celebrates Cinco de Mayo with food and beverage specials and a Pinko de Mayo fiesta on Thursday, May 5 starting at 6 p.m. Patrons can participate in taco eating contests throughout the night. The first person to finish 25 tacos will win a Pink Taco T-shirt and gift certificate.

ENTERTAINMENT SHORT NOTES

As part of the Japan Kabuki Festival Las Vegas 2016, Panasonic is presenting the Water Screen Digital Show by Shochiku x teamLab daily at The Fountains at Bellagio through May 7. There are four free shows daily at 8, 9, 10 and 11 p.m.

Aaron Lewis will perform at Stoney's Rockin’ Country club on Saturday, May 14 for the “Our Heroes Benefit Concert: Helping Wounded Veterans” fundraiser. He’s being joined by Elvis Monroe, Jared Blake and Elko Live. Tickets are $30 in advance.
Country music hit maker Phil Vassar will follow at Stoney's on Wednesday, May 18. The piano-pounding powerhouse on stage will kick off the opening of Wednesday nights at the Town Square dance venue. He has released six albums and been ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

Lena Prima will be in Las Vegas performing at the San Gennaro Feast May 4, 5,7 and 8 and then appear in concert at the Italian American Club on Wednesday, May 11 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and $35.

Sin City Opera will present Jacques Offenbach’s comedic opéra bouffe “La Périchole” at the Winchester Cultural Center May 6–15. The production will have an all-new English translation and super titles by an artistic director, Skip Galla, and feature an orchestra. Tickets are $15.

NEON MUSEUM PRESENTS FAMILY ROAD TRIP LECTURE

On Wednesday, May 18, the Neon Museum will host a Times of the Signs lecture, “Are We There Yet? Remembering the Family Road Trip.” Presented by Susan Sessions Rugh, the discussion at 6:30 p.m. will cover Rugh’s research on motels and the evolution and impact of the family vacation on society as part of the museum’s Times of the Signs Series held in the Neon Boneyard. She will sell and sign copies of “Family Vacation” following the presentation, which is free but advanced registration is required online.

BEER PARK PLANS DERBY PARTY

Beer Park at Paris will host a rooftop Kentucky Derby viewing party sponsored by Veuve Clicquot champagne on Saturday, May 7. Derby enthusiasts dressed in traditional Kentucky Derby-style will receive a complimentary glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne. Beer Park will also offer an exclusive special with the Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich with shaved oven-roasted turkey, aged Kentucky ham, Mornay sauce, parmesan cheese and tomato.

SPECIAL MOTHER’S DAY DEALS

The Art Festival of Henderson has been a Mother’s Day weekend tradition for years dedicated to the visual, performing, interactive and fine arts. Dozens of booths along Water Street will be selling artwork. There will also be entertainment and a children’s Imagination Station. Admission is complimentary.
On Mother’s Day, every mom who enjoys a Mother’s Day meal at Delmonico Steakhouse in the Venetian can purchase an “Essential Emeril” cookbook, personally signed by Chef Emeril Lagasse for 25 percent off.

La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn will celebrate Mother’s Day with a decadent butler-style brunch and “bottomless” mimosas, bloody marys and more from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 8. All mothers will be offered a complimentary mimosa. Prepared by Corporate Executive Chef William DeMarco, all brunch selections will be served butler-style, with continual tray-passed tasting portions served directly to tables. Brunch will be $54.95 and $28 per child and $20 extra for “bottomless” cocktails.

Two shopping malls, Las Vegas South Premium Outlets and Las Vegas North Premium Outlets will have brand ambassadors stationed throughout the centers May 6 through May 8 from noon to 4 p.m. handing out promotional rack cards with additional gift offers. At the north mall, there will be a “We Love Mom” Mother’s Day photo booth in the Food Court Patio on Saturday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 8 from noon to 5 p.m. The south mall will have arts and crafts on May 7 and 8 from noon to 4 p.m. near Guest Services.

RESTAURANT NEWS BLURBS

Part of the Miracle Mile Shops’ Harmon Avenue redevelopment will include two new dining outlets: Hot N Juicy Crawfish opening this fall and Nacho Daddy opening late this summer. The 3,000-square-foot Hot N Juicy Crawfish will feature authentic Cajun-style seafood at the company’s first Strip location. Nacho Daddy will highlight Mexican cuisine and the well-known Scorpion Shot.

The chefs of the Divine Cafe at the Springs Preserve will hold a hands-on Spanish cuisine cooking class for Tapas and Paella on Friday, May 13 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. The menu paired with beer and wine costs $80.10 for members and $89 for non-members, visit Eventbrite to sign up.

Because of immediate success, GIADA in the Cromwell has broadened brunch to Fridays, in addition to weekends at Chef Giada De Laurentiis’ namesake restaurant. Brunch can be experienced a la carte or via a $45 tasting menu.

The next Taste & Learn event at Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant on Paradise will be a four-course wine pairing dinner representing three different producers on Saturday, May 7 from 4-6 p.m. Cost is $65 and reservations are required, call 702-364-5300.

MIKE TYSON’S SHOW GOING STRONG AT MGM GRAND

“Mike Tyson UNDISPUTED TRUTH – Live On Stage” at the MGM Grand is a no holds barred, one-man show featuring the world’s most illustrious heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson. The show was crafted to give the public a compelling, honest, humorous, one-of-a-kind, pure live autobiography of one of today’s most complex and well-known figures. It was the first show to be created and produced in Las Vegas and result in a subsequent Broadway run. The show is performed in Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club Thursday through Sunday at 10 p.m., with select dark dates. Performances have been added Friday, May 27 through Monday, May 30. Tickets start at $54.95.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS

The 2016 Las Vegas Rotary Car & Bike Show will take place Sunday, May 15 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and feature classic, rare and exotic cars and motorcycles, food trucks kids’ entertainment, raffle and auction prizes. Hosted by Celebrity Cars Las Vegas, the event will be held at 7770 Dean Martin Drive, Ste. 301. Admission and car registration is free.

In honor of National Military Appreciation Month and to mark the USO’s 75th anniversary, Clark County is changing the lights of the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign to red, white, and blue. Throughout the month of May, USO Las Vegas will be raising funds. One event will be held on Sunday, May 29 at 2 p.m. at Planet Hollywood where participants can play alongside legendary poker player “The Duke of Fremont” and Caesars Palace’s headliner Matt Goss in the USO Celebrity Poker Challenge. Entry is $200 and 1st place wins a $10,000 seat at the 2016 World Series of Poker.

The Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis Walk will be held on Saturday, May 14 at Exploration Park in Mountain’s Edge. In addition to the community walk, festivities will include live music, food tent, kids’ entertainment, raffle with great prizes, vendor booths, wellness area, educational materials, park activities and more. Onsite registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk at 10 a.m. No registration fee is required, but a $25 per person donation is encouraged.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, will celebrate its 11th Annual Gala at The Cosmopolitan on Saturday, May 14 at 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “One Vision, One Community!” The dinner will honor two noteworthy contributors working for the betterment of the community. Tickets start at $250.

SAN GENNARO FEAST MOVES TO CRAIG RANCH REGIONAL PARK, MAY 4-8

The 37th Annual San Gennaro Feast will take place May 4-8 at Craig Ranch Regional Park in North Las Vegas. The Las Vegas food and music festival celebrates the spirit of San Gennaro and features more than 70 restaurant food booths, 60 amusements rides, 80-foot petting zoo, pony rides and piglets, midway games, arts and crafts booths, and continuous live music. Entertainment featuring some of Las Vegas’ finest Strip entertainers is coordinated by singer Tony Sacca who also hosts and headlines nightly. Entry tickets are $10.

FAST NOTES

National Travel and Tourism Week 2016 is taking place this week, May 1-7. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority will be hosting its annual National Travel and Tourism Week Rally Day on Tuesday, May 3 at 3:30 p.m. at the Toshiba Plaza adjacent to the new T-Mobile arena.
The Sun Devil Caravan will begin its 2016 tour in Las Vegas on Tuesday, May 10 featuring vice president for university athletics Ray Anderson, head football coach Todd Graham, women’s triathlon coach Cliff English and mascot Sparky. Sun Devil fans are invited to join a free meet and greet with coaches, administrators and student-athletes on the patio at the Hard Rock Hotel from 5-6:30 p.m. Afterwards the Sun Devils will play baseball against UNLV at Earl E. Wilson Stadium. Tickets are $5 in advance.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, May 8, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

CHANNING TATUM WILL BRING ‘MAGIC MIKE’ TO SIN CITY NEXT MARCH

Actor and producer Channing Tatum will bring “Magic Mike Live Las Vegas” to the Hard Rock next spring. The all-new show conceived and directed by Tatum and based on the hit films “Magic Mike” and “Magic Mike XXL” will bring a complete re-imagination of the male revue and become the permanent home of Mike Lane, America’s favorite handyman-turned-stripper. The show will recreate the mythic Club Domina with a sizzling 360-degree dance and acrobatic strip tease spectacular. However, Tatum won’t be on stage as Mike.

The experience will start as you enter Club Domina. The fully re-envisioned cabaret nightclub space will have three elaborately designed bars and integrated stage and seating for 450 guests. Expressly created to capture the magnetism of a film franchise that has grossed nearly $300 million, this new venue and its immersive production will be a new entertainment experience. Performances will be Wednesdays through Sundays at 7:30 and 10:30 p.m.

ZOWIE BOWIE WILL START RESIDENCY AT DOWNTOWN GRAND

Popular Vegas act Zowie Bowie will begin a weekly residency at the Downtown Grand on Friday, May 13 at Citrus at the Grand Pool Deck. Zowie Bowie will take the stage on Fridays at 10 p.m. Citrus features an all-new lineup of live entertainment including DJs on Thursdays and Fridays from 4-7 p.m. and Saturdays noon-5 p.m., as well as concerts and special events.

BEAUTY & ESSEX OPENS THIS MONTH AT THE COSMOPOLITAN

TAO Group and Chef Chris Santos, who judged on The Food Network’s “Chopped,” will debut Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan starting Monday, May 16. The opening marks the second location of the New York City pawn shop, restaurant and lounge that originated in 2010 from the chef who pioneered the small, share plate dining trend.

Spanning 10,000 square feet, the Rockwell Group-designed space celebrates the beauty of jewels in all forms from pearls and gemstones to vintage jewelry boxes, to antique and heirloom pieces. It transitions through a gritty pawn shop-inspired space to a light and decadent entry, before arriving in the Pearl Lounge with a custom chandelier with thousands of draped pearls, which radiate from the ceiling and down the walls to plush tufted purple banquettes. The opulence continues in the Mirror Bar where a DJ will spin from a gold booth and through a corridor featuring a 40-foot-long screened wall composed of framed vintage lockets that lead to a trio of ornate dining rooms seating 230.

THE COSMOPOLITAN WILL ALSO OPEN ZUMA, MOMOFUKU AND MILK BAR

The Cosmopolitan and Azumi Group are partnering to bring the contemporary Japanese restaurant ZUMA to the resort late this year. Created and co-founded by Chef Rainer Becker, ZUMA features modern Japanese cuisine and cocktails served in an elegant and sophisticated environment. Inspired by the informal izakaya dining style, the menu is designed to be shared and offers dishes from a sushi counter, main kitchen and a robata grill. Since opening in London in 2002, ZUMA has expanded to nine locations in six countries. This will be the Azumi Group’s first restaurant on the West Coast.

The Cosmopolitan will also open Momofuku and Milk Bar marking David Chang and Christina Tosi’s first projects on the West Coast. Both the restaurant and Milk Bar are currently in development. Established by chef and founder David Chang in 2004, Momofuku has 13 restaurants, two bars, and a Culinary Lab. Milk Bar is the bakery founded by chef and owner, Christina Tosi, best known for her innovative creations, including cereal milk ice cream, compost cookies and crack pie. She opened Milk Bar in 2008 and now has seven locations. Christina is a two-time James Beard award winner and author of two cookbooks, “Momofuku Milk Bar” and “Milk Bar Life.”

WYNN INTRODUCES ELEVATED SW VERANDA

Wynn’s newest dining concept is SW Veranda. The outdoor terrace is above SW Steakhouse with views of Wynn’s signature water feature, Lake of Dreams. The area offers a selection of Executive Chef David Walzog’s small plates and appetizers, pastry chef Svetlana Almonte’s decadent desserts, and an array of hand-crafted cocktails, distinctive wines, spirits and fine Champagnes.

THE LINQ OFFERS FIRST BUNK BED ROOMS ON THE STRIP

The LINQ in now offering 12 bunk bed rooms with hip technology and chic décor. The rooms are 350 square feet featuring two queen pillow-top beds with one twin-size bunk bed loft. Electronic features include USB charging stations and a 47-screen LED flat-screen TV. The room is designed with light, modern furnishings and pops of color. Guests can also rent board games like: Twister, Cards Against Humanity, Simon, Yahtzee and Jenga. Rates start at $69.

BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS HONORS TWO LAS VEGAS HEADLINERS

The “2016 Billboard Music Awards will be airing live on ABC on Sunday, May 22 from the new T-Mobile Arena at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The show will be hosted by GRAMMY Award-winning hip-hop artist Ludacris and international music sensation Ciara. Tickets ranging from $75 to $913 are on sale for the show.

Caesars Palace’s headliner Celine Dion will receive the lifetime achievement Icon Award. Past recipients include Neil Diamond (2011), Stevie Wonder (2012), Prince (2013) and Jennifer Lopez (2014). Dion will also take to the stage for a special rendition of Queen’s “The Show Must Go On.”

Planet Hollywood’s headliner Britney Spears will receive the Millennium Award, which recognizes outstanding career achievements and influence in the music industry. Past Billboard Millennium Award recipients include Beyoncé in 2011 and Whitney Houston in 2012. Spears will perform a medley of her greatest hits at the show, which for the first time will have viewers on the West Coast watching the show live along with fellow fans on the East Coast.

LUCKY DRAGON ON SCHEDULE TO OPEN LATE 2016

Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino, the city’s first resort from the ground up in six years, will be delivering an authentic Asian cultural and gaming experience with a 204-room boutique hotel and a spa. Financial commitments provided by the Fonfa and Weidner families have guaranteed the project will be completed on schedule in late 2016.

Lucky Dragon will feature details such as signage in Chinese first and English second, a multilingual staff and the city’s only indoor/outdoor high-end tea garden and lounge. All aspects of the hotel and casino’s design have been influenced by the rich traditions of Asian culture. The resort’s 27,500 square-foot casino will focus on table games popular in Asia, such as Baccarat and Pai Gow. The gaming floor will be centered on a lively pagoda-shaped bar punctuated by a 1.25 ton glass dragon sculpture suspended from the ceiling.

There will be a collection of restaurants, designed to be among Las Vegas’ most authentic Pan-Asian dining destinations. In addition to a night market, dim sum restaurant and fine dining venue, Jewel Kitchen will be the only show kitchen in the city that extends directly onto the casino floor and serve as the hub of Lucky Dragon’s culinary action.

Lucky Dragon will be located next to the 427-unit Allure Las Vegas high-rise tower on the Strip.

ANNUAL POWER OF LOVE™ GALA WILL HONOR TONY BENNETT

On Saturday, May 21, Keep Memory Alive will host its 20th annual Power of Love™ gala inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena to continue its mission to raise funds and awareness in support of Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. This year, the star-studded benefit will honor Tony Bennett and celebrate his 90th birthday.

Some performers and VIPs expected to walk the red carpet include: Quincy Jones; Herbie Hancock; Chris Botti; musician and former guitarist for The Police Andy Summers; Diana Krall; and piano prodigy and budding pop sensation Dan Orlando; Dale Chihuly; Jeff Koons; Minnie Driver; and celebrity chefs Wolfgang Puck, Mario Carbone, and Nobu Matsuhisa.

Performances that night will feature Steven Tyler, Darius Rucker, James Corden, Andra Day, Andy Summers, honoree Tony Bennett and more.

GOLDEN NUGGET HOSTS GRAND POKER SERIES

The ninth annual Grand Poker Series will run May 31-July 3 at the Golden Nugget in the Grand Event Center with more than 90 poker tournaments spread across 34 days ranging in both buy-in amounts and disciplines. Buy-ins range from $100 to $1,675, and most days feature three events at 11 a.m., 1 and 7 p.m.

There is a $500K Guarantee $570 buy-in Main Event starting on June 29, and multiple Seniors Events during Seniors Week featuring a $10K buy-in Seniors Super High Roller Event on June 26 presented by The Elder Statesman of Poker, Oklahoma Johnny Hale.

The Golden Nugget has also partnered with “Poker Night in America,” making the Grand Poker Series an official stop in their new “Final Table” series starring Phil Hellmuth, Antonio Esfandiari, Maria Ho, Joe Stapleton and David Tuchman. The Poker Night in America event has a $1,675 buy-in with three starting flights on June 3, 4, and 5. “The Final Table” will be live streamed via Twitch as well as filmed for broadcast on CBS Sports.

ALIZÉ AT TOP OF THE PALMS HOLDS CITY’S FIRST TEA PAIRINGS DINNER

On Thursday, June 16, Alizé at the Top of the Palms Casino Resort will present the city’s first tea pairing dinner hosted by Barbara Fairchild, former editor-in-chief, “Bon Appétit.” This will be the night that gourmet French cuisine through a multi-course dinner meets the delicate flavors of teas. Executive Chef Mark Purdy and his team are partnering with Seven Cups Fine Teas, a top tea purveyor, to create the one-night-only experience. The dinner is $225, and the VIP cocktail reception is $300 and includes a special gift bag.

In addition to hosting the event, Fairchild will be awarding people in the tea industry who have contributed work for establishing standards for tea quality over the past year. Dignitaries coming from as far away as China and India will be receiving awards given by the International Specialty Tea Association. This dinner will be the premier event of the 2016 World Tea Expo taking place in Las Vegas June 13 through 17.

NEVADA BALLET THEATRE ENDS SEASON WITH ‘ROMEO & JULIET’

Nevada Ballet Theatre (NBT) will conclude its 44th season with the famous tale of star-crossed lovers, “Romeo & Juliet.” In recognition of the 400th Anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death, this revered tragedy will be presented on Saturday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 15 at 2 p.m. in Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center. Tickets start from $29.

Prior to both performances, NBT will present “Insights,” an educational pre-performance discussion offering patrons an opportunity to further engage with the ballet. “Insights” is free to all ticket holders and will take place in the Troesh Studio Theater 45 minutes prior to curtain.

HELLDORADO DAYS ARE MAY 13-15

The third Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Major, Last Cowboy Standing, part of the elite Built Ford Tough Series will headline Helldorado Days, the hometown rodeo commemorating Las Vegas’ 111th birthday.

All of the other events occurring during the Helldorado Days event week are returning including a downtown parade on Saturday at 10 a.m., carnival, art show, auction, golf tournament, whiskerino contest and a PRCA-sanctioned rodeo. The new location for the rodeo is the Las Vegas Village, the outdoor venue directly across the Strip from the Luxor that will open daily at 10 a.m. Admission to the festival grounds starts at $10. Rodeo tickets, including festival admission tickets start at $25 for PBR Last Cowboy Standing tickets.

RISE LANTERN FESTIVAL WILL RETURN IN OCTOBER

After a sold-out sophomore year, RiSE Lantern festival will expand into two days and return for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 7 and 8. This festival celebrating the collective elevation of peoples’ hopes, dreams, resolutions, goals and desires will once again take place at the Moapa River Reservation approximately 35 miles northeast of Las Vegas. The gathering will feature the simultaneous release of thousands of flame-lit paper lanterns, each carrying an individual meaning and together forming something beautiful.

SOUTH POINT HOSTS TASTE OF HOME COOKING SCHOOL AND EXPO

The Taste of Home Cooking School & Expo will be presented by South Point and Beasley Media Group on Thursday, June 2 in the South Point Grand Ballroom. The Taste of Home Lifestyle Expo will offer more than 20 local vendors, feature shopping and giveaways at 4:30 p.m. followed by the Cooking School demonstration at 6:30 p.m. There are three price tiers for interested participants: general admission $15; preferred $30; and VIP $50.

HARD ROCK CAFE HOSTS ‘ROCKIN’ PAWS’ FUNDRAISING BRUNCH

Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas at Hard Rock Hotel on Paradise Road will host a special “Rockin’ Paws” brunch to benefit The L Group at The Center and Street Dogz on Sunday, May 15 from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The event will feature a choice of four favorite brunch selections, live entertainment by Miss Kitty Litter and AJ “Elvis” Huth, contests such as “best owner/pet look-alike,” “best costume,” “best trick,” a raffle to benefit Street Dogz with prizes from Woof Gang Bakery, among others, and more. Guests 21 and over can enjoy bottomless mimosas and bloody marys for $20 more.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door, call Arlene at 702-802-5411. This brunch is open to the public and one leashed pet per couple is welcome.

You can help Street Dogz further by donating two cans of wet pet food and receive one free raffle ticket. Donate a small bag of dry pet food and receive three free raffle tickets.

ENTERTAINER CLIPS

Recently rock singer Kip Winger, frontman of the popular ‘80s rock band Winger, attended the new Las Vegas production, “Frankie Moreno – Under The Influence” at Planet Hollywood. While at the show, Winger took the stage inside of the PH Showroom for a special guest performance alongside Moreno and the band.

Best known for their hit “Joy to the World,” 1970s rockers Three Dog Night will perform at The Orleans Showroom May 21 and 22.

Brenda Lee will appear at the Golden Nugget on Friday, May 18 followed by Aaron Neville on May 20.

Mike Love, co-founder and member of The Beach Boys drove the new SPEEDVEGAS track recently in a brand new Corvette Z06.

Dixie Longate is returning with her “Dixie’s Tupperware Party” to the Troesh Studio Theater at The Smith Center May 17-22. Tickets are $33-$40. Have seen this show and it’s really fun and funny.

ABOUT TOWN NEWS

The Golden Nugget's Eighth Annual Wine Fest will be May 13–14 with events both days.

Pizza Lotto Slices & Slots is opening at the El Cortez on May 19. The pizzeria uses the freshest ingredients and interprets the classic pizza with the New York flair. The menu includes other classic Italian dishes including chicken parmigiana, Italian style meatballs, a Bronx style Stromboli and Garlic Rolls.

Last week, the upscale VISTA Cocktail Lounge in Caesars Palace with its one-of-a-kind LED screens surrounding the interior celebrated its one-year anniversary with a huge bash.

XS Nightclub at Wynn celebrated the return of its Sunday NightSwim with a grand opening event last week with DJ / Producer Alesso, who will return on June 19. Thousands of party-goers packed the Sunday bash, which has been hailed as one of the most renowned nightlife experiences and recognized as one of the top events by “Nightclub & Bar.”

Grape Street Café, Wine Bar & Cellar in Downtown Summerlin has launched a new happy hour program featuring seven wines for $7, seven appetizers for $7, $7 well cocktails and $5 selected shots. Grape Street’s happy hour is available Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. throughout the entire restaurant.

Both Distill locations Summerlin and Southern Highlands will hold a party celebrating the best of the 80s with a DJ spinning that decade’s hits, a costume contest, and drink specials on Saturday, May 21 starting at 8 p.m. There is no cover but must be 21.
Food Revolution Day is an annual global day of action that celebrates good, fresh, real food. The local event hosted by Create A Change Now and The Reset Project will be held at VegeNation downtown on Sunday, May 15 with a reception from 5:30-6:15 p.m. followed by dinner. The “555” dinner will highlight five Las Vegas chefs creating a five course-dinner from five local farms while educating individuals on nutritional values and the importance of healthy eating. Tickets are $65.

An ÖPPEN House Event is being held at the Catalyst Dome at Downtown Container Park to share the IKEA interactive room display on Wednesday, May 11 and Sunday, May 16 from 1-8 p.m. It’s a fun way to see the IKEA story come to life and you can enter to win prizes.

The next lecture at the National Atomic Testing Museum on East Flamingo Road will be “Get the Buzz on Drones!” with Drone and Counter-Drone expert Leonard Gentile on Saturday, May 14 at 7 p.m. with a meet and greet at 6 p.m. This is free for museum members and non-members. Please RSVP by calling 702-794-5151.

RECon 2016 will attract an estimated 36,000 attendees May 22-25. The world’s largest retail real estate exhibition and conference provides participants networking, deal making and educational opportunities.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, May 15 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

STATION CASINOS IS BUYING PALMS CASINO RESORT

Station Casinos LLC has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Palms Casino Resort for $312.5 million. Fairly close to the Strip, the Palms is a hybrid gaming property that appeals to both Las Vegas residents and tourists. The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2016.

The Palms features a 95,000-square-foot casino, a race and sportsbook, approximately two towers with 710 hotel rooms, 599 AAA Four Diamond award-winning condos, 15 fine dining and casual restaurants including the award-winning N9NE Steakhouse and Nova Italiano, 60,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, Ghostbar Nightclub, the 2,500-seat Pearl Theater, luxury spa, two acre Palms Pool and year-round Palms Place Pool, and a 14-screen Brenden Theatres & IMAX movieplex.

GIORDANO’S PIZZA WILL OPEN AT BALLY’S GRAND BAZAAR SHOPS™

Giordano’s World Famous Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza from Chicago will open its first restaurant in Las Vegas this fall at the Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s. The 4,000-square-foot restaurant will be located directly above the recently-opened Starbucks and offer diners views of the fountains at Bellagio and a separate 1,700-square-foot patio and bar in the center’s Grand Allée main walkway will allow guests to dine under the lights of the Strip.

Giordano’s serving pizza since 1974 will feature a menu of its famous stuffed deep dish pizza along with thin and extra-thin crust pizzas and hand-crafted Italian inspired foods including salads, pastas, sandwiches and sweet endings. The Las Vegas location will offer lunch, dinner and carry out.

REBA, BROOKS & DUNN ADD DATES TO THEIR COLOSSEUM RESIDENCY

Longtime friends and Caesars Palace headliners Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn are adding 12 new dates to their sold-out residency. The superstar trio will close out 2016 with six more shows Nov. 30-Dec. 10 and will kick off 2017 with six shows Feb. 22-March 4. Tickets will go on sale this Friday, May 13 at 10 a.m. PT.

Note that iHeartRadio is running a nationwide month-long contest via their website for one lucky winner to receive two show tickets, a two-night stay at Caesars Palace and roundtrip airfare for two.

Earlier this month, Brooks & Dunn were honored at the American Country Countdown Awards with the NASH Icon Award presented to them by McEntire, who was the 2014 winner.

11TH WORLD SERIES OF BEER PONG WILL BE HELD AT WESTGATE

Thousands of beer pong enthusiasts will compete at the 11th Annual World Series of Beer Pong (WSOBP) being held for the first time at the Westgate July 6-10. Contestants from around the world will compete over four days for more than $65,000 in prize money and the ultimate bragging rights of “World Beer Pong Champion.”

Tournament play follows the official WSOBP rules. Players can register at BPONG.COM/WSOBP. Fee is $299 per player without a hotel stay and includes a minimum of 12 games of play in the tournament.

SEVEN MAGIC MOUNTAINS IS NEW PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION

Internationally renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone’s Seven Magic Mountains is a large-scale site-specific public art installation located approximately 10 miles south of Las Vegas near Jean Dry Lake and Interstate 15. The creative expression of human presence in the desert is comprised of seven towers of colorful, stacked boulders standing more than 30 feet high. The exhibition will be on view for two years.

LAS VEGAS HOSTS AMERICA’S FIRST MAH JONGG WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

America’s first Mah Jongg World Championship will be held at the Westgate Friday-Sunday, July 22-24. According to the National Mah Jongg League, there are approximately 500,000 players in the United States. Mah Jongg is an ancient tile-based Chinese game that requires players to use a high degree of skill and strategy and to have a little bit of luck. Top Mah Jongg players will gather to compete for the largest prize purse in American Mah Jongg history. Participants are going to have to qualify in other tournaments to be awarded a Golden ticket.

SEAN’S PARK, AN ORIGINAL LIFE-LEARNING FACILITY, OPENS

The first of its kind in the United States, Sean’s Park a 2.5-acre park designed for children and adults with intellectual disabilities opened at Opportunity Village’s main campus. It offers new life-skills building equipment such as a “live” street crosswalk, a way-finding path, moonwalk pad, a full size bowling lane and several other features like a swing for a wheelchair bound person. To visit the park you need to make a reservation, call 702-262-1550.

The park named after Mike and Patty Morrissey’s son- Sean, an OVIP at Opportunity Village, was made possible with a generous donation from the family.

PET SHOP BOYS WILL MAKE TOUR STOP AT COSMOPOLITAN

The Pet Shop Boys: The SUPER Tour will visit The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan on Friday, Oct. 21. Since signing to Parlophone Records in 1985, the U.K. pop duo has produced more than 40 Top 30 singles and released 12 studio albums in the U.K. Top 10 chart. Their latest album released this year is “Super” featuring the hit single “Twenty-something.” Over the years, the group has been credited with integrating pop musical theater into its live music shows. Tickets start at $29 GA.

X BURLESQUE’ AT FLAMINGO CELEBRATES 14 YEARS

The topless revue“X Burlesque” at the Flamingo is celebrating 14th seductive years in Las Vegas. New costumes and dance numbers have been added to the show, including “The Buzz” by New World Sound & Timmy Trumpet, “Trndsttr” by Black Coast featuring M. Maggie, and “I’m a Good Girl” by Christina Aguilera. The show also includes new visuals and continues to use innovative new projection mapping.

The show is created and produced by husband and wife team, Matt and Angela Stabile. “X Burlesque” is performed nightly at 10 p.m. inside the X Showroom. Tickets are $55.95, $79.95 and $86.27.

OPENINGS AROUND TOWN

Burger Lounge, an eco-conscious burger chain from Southern California, just opened its first location in Las Vegas at ARIA on the casino floor near the poker room. This fast-casual concept has menu selections offering non-GMO and sustainable ingredients including grass-fed beef, organic cheeses and house-made dressings. Vegetable-forward dishes include fresh salads and the Organic Quinoa Veggie Burger. Hours are daily 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

At last, IKEA’s 42nd store will hold its Grand Opening event Wednesday-Friday, May 18-20 with many special offers such as on the first day the first 42 visitors receiving a free EKTORP sofa and the first 2,500 people getting a mystery envelope with prizes. For all three days, there will be free entertainment, balloon art and face painting.

Last week, the Hard Rock Hotel revealed its newest nightlife concept Breathe Pool Ultra Lounge with views of the Strip. The resort’s poolside tropical oasis offers assorted fruits, breads and sweets to dip in chocolate fondue as well as signature cocktails like Verecruzana a Whiskey Smash. Breathe Pool Ultra Lounge is open to guests on Friday and Saturday nights from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. with no cover charge.

MOMENTI IS AMERICA’S FIRST SPIRIT INFUSED ICE CREAM BRAND

An outdoor party was held for the grand opening of Momenti Spirited Ice Creams manufacturing plant, the first specialty manufacturing plant in the United States. The family-owned and operated Momenti specializes in the science of ice cream making using quality ingredients and top-shelf liquors.

Located in the 4000 block of Silvestri Lane, Momenti’s first full production plant utilizes a patent-pending process to successfully freeze and infuse ice creams and sorbets with wine and spirits. What started as a fun concept by local entrepreneur, Leif Pearson who spoke at the gathering, quickly expanded into countless hours of education and developmental collaboration to transform Momenti Spirited Ice Creams into a trend-setting brand.

ETHEL M CHOCOLATES HOLDS DECADENCE IN THE DESERT

Decadence in the Desert will be held May 19 from 4-9 p.m. at Ethel M Chocolates in Henderson. The family-friendly culinary and art event features dozens of local artists, food trucks, entertainment, and sampling of Ethel M Chocolates in the new Tasting Room. Guests can also stroll through the botanical cactus garden with more than 300 varieties of cacti and desert plants. Admission is free. Portions of the proceeds made during the event are donated to Opportunity Village.

For guests interested in experiencing the tasting room, tickets are $9.99 at the retail store or online. In each Tasting Room Experience, a chocolatier hosts a chocolate tasting of four premium chocolate pieces. You learn how the candy is made and some history about Ethel M and its founder Forrest Mars Sr.

Decadence in the Desert is held every third Thursday except during the summer months. It will return again in the fall.

WINE AMPLIFIED PLUGGED-IN SERIES BEGINS WITH POOL CONCERT SERIES

The next Rock ‘n Roll Wine event is part of the Wine Amplified Plugged-In series kicking off the Summer Concert Series at Mandalay Bay Beach on Saturday, May 28. The I Love The 90s theme will feature multiple performers including GRAMMY-award winning female rap group Salt-N-Pepa, Tone Loc, Kid ’n Play, Rob Base, Young MC and Kool Moe Dee. Tickets, which include 20 two-ounce tastings from a 20-wine selection and access to the main beach and concert, are $59 and $69 day of event.

CIRQUE’S ‘ONE NIGHT FOR ONE DROP’ SHOW WILL VISIT CINEMAS, JUNE 7

Fathom Events and Cirque du Soleil are partnering to bring the 2016 “One Night for ONE DROP” event to select U.S. cinemas, featuring a collaboration of performers from each of the eight Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas. In its fourth year, “One Night for ONE DRO” returned for an electrifying performance in front of a VIP sold-out audience at The Smith Center in March, featuring GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter Leona Lewis and Miles “Baby Boogaloo” Brown from the hit TV sitcom “Blackish.” The show is an annual celebration around World Water Day to raise funds and awareness for critical water issues worldwide.

Audiences across the United States can enjoy this special one-night event in cinemas on Tuesday, June 7 at 7 p.m. local time. Participating theater list and tickets are available online at Fathom Events’ website.

SOME DINING TIPS

Border Grill Mandalay Bay is continuing its new monthly event - Border Grill Patio Series - with Tour of Tequilas, a celebration of the popular agave-based spirit on Thursday, May 19 from 6-8 p.m. It’s a chance to taste Chef Jamaal Taherzadeh’s sustainable modern Mexican cuisine paired with five specially selected Avión tequilas. Tickets are $49.

Carnevino Italian Steakhouse at The Palazzo is unveiling a decadent menu featuring the season’s finest and freshest ingredients through the end of June. A few of the new dishes include: Lamb Sausage with sorrel, pickled garlic and pea tendrils; Artichoke Agnolotti with ricotta salata and lemon; Wild Gulf Shrimp with riso nero, smoked pork and peas; and Dungeness Crab Crespelle with ricotta, lemon and basil, etc.

The Las Vegas Epicurean Affair will return to The Palazzo® pool area on Thursday, May 26 from 7-10 p.m. The soiree, sponsored by the Nevada Restaurant Association (NvRA), features nearly 80 of the finest restaurants and nightclubs from around the city, along with a premier selection of libations. Proceeds from the evening will fund NvRA's educational and scholarship programs. This event is open to the public with tickets starting at $110.

BROAD BASED NEWS ITEMS

Adopt a Rescue Pet of Las Vegas (ARP) will participate in the Vegas Pet Expo to help raise money for their dogs with medical needs. ARP will accept donations at their expo booth for the “pawsitively awesome” fundraising event and offer a variety of gift items to those who donate. The expo will take place at the Cashman Center on Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 22 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Primer Gran Baile Festival for Latin music fans will be held at the Westgate to kick off Memorial Day Weekend Friday, May 27. This event will feature live performances by Banda Los Recoditos, Los Alegres del Barranco, El Tigrillo Palma, Anarquia 702, and Equipo Imperial. Tickets range from $55 for early bird to $70 the day of the event.

Dunkin’ Donuts is hosting its third annual “Celebrity Restaurant Challenge” from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 20. Local celebrities and personalities will be working at select Dunkin’ Donuts locations to raise awareness for Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation’s Camp Cartwheel.

A Panel Discussion - “21st Century Global Nuclear Challenges” will take place on Wednesday, May 25 at the UNLV Science & Engineering Building Auditorium. There will be a 5:30 p.m. reception followed by a presentation at 7 p.m. The esteemed panel will include former directors, Dr. Robert Kuckuck, Dr. C. Paul Robinson and Dr. Siegfried Hecker, of the United States’ nuclear security laboratories. They will focus on the most compelling nuclear challenges now facing the global community. Event is free, RSVP to Molly Marks at Molly.Marks@unlv.edu.

The Las Vegas Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities will host the 14th annual Drive for Charity Golf Tournament presented by Insomniac at TPC Summerlin where the PGA Tour pros play on Monday, June 27. Entry fee is $1,000 per foursome or $250 for individuals.

The 43rd Annual AIA Las Vegas Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, June 6 at TPC Summerlin.

The 8th Annual We♥ Maggie (We Heart Maggie) Golf Tournament supporting the Children’s Heart Foundation will be held on Saturday, May 28 at the Rio Secco Golf Club.

A limited number of Early Bird three-day tickets to Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival just went on sale for $245 and VIP $595. The fourth edition of the multi-day festival will surge through the streets of Downtown Sept. 23–25 offering attendees the opportunity to fully-immerse themselves into a beautiful interactive experience featuring notable musicians, the city’s best food, celebrated artists and inspirational speakers from across the globe.

The longest-running Las Vegas LGBT pool party has returned for its seventh season with weekly Temptation Sundays at the Luxor from1-7 p.m. through Sept. 25. Matt Lucio is the resident DJ this summer and guest DJs will make special appearances throughout the season. Admission is $20 and $10 for hotel guests, locals and military.

Maverick Helicopters took home its seventh consecutive award for Best Air Tour from the Southern Nevada Hotel Concierge Association’s (SNHCA) Concierge Choice Awards.

A new report released by online gaming’s Casino Room revealed the most popular casinos on Instagram from more than 2 million Instagram posts containing the hashtag #casino. For Las Vegas the majority of posts were uploaded from the Strip and for individual casinos at the Bellagio.

Wrote about this feat a few months ago but now it’s official, Guinness World Records honored Brookman Elementary School, comedy magician Adam London starring at the D downtown, and 4th-grade teacher Alana London with the title “Longest Chain of Glow Sticks.” The number of glow sticks recorded last Jan. 15 was 20,808, and the line measured 3.92 miles. Glow sticks represented books read in the school’s Reading Makes Us Bright” program.

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman has expressed confidence that the Oakland Raiders will move to Las Vegas unless the deal is mismanaged. Raiders owner Mark Davis has pledged $500 million toward the construction of a $1.4 billion, 65,000-seat domed stadium. The Sands and partnering business Majestic Realty pledged an additional $150 million, leaving $750 million for taxpayers to see the stadium project through at its early stage.

The Riviera’s garage was demolished last week leaving the two hotel towers to come down in two different future implosions.

Anita Mann, creator of the “Fantasy” show at the Luxor will choreograph and direct Share, Inc.’s annual Boomtown Gala. “An Evening at Studio 53” will be held on Saturday, May 21 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Tickets are $500.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, May 22, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

BARBRA STREISAND’S NINE-CITY SUMMER TOUR INCLUDES LAS VEGAS

Barbra Streisand will visit Las Vegas’ new T-Mobile Arena on Saturday, Aug. 6 as part of her summer concert tour Aug. 2-23 performing songs from her six-decade career. Streisand, the only artist to notch No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 in six separate decades, is releasing a new album later this year that will include tracks from her summer run. Those who purchase tickets online will receive a CD of “Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway,” which will come out after the tour wraps.

‘CHERRY BOOM BOOM’ WILL OPEN AT TROPICANA IN SEPTEMBER

“Cherry Boom Boom,” an interactive show with a fresh and masterful mix of amplified choreography, is set to launch on Sept. 8 at Tropicana Las Vegas with previews running through Sept. 19.

It’s being promoted as the ultimate playground for sex, music, love and rock-n-roll. Auditions are happening now to cast 12 featured dancers, five performers for specialty acts, “Boomettes,” four musicians for live performances and two comedia del arte actors. A similar, smaller production was staged in Los Angeles at King King Hollywood in 2014-2015.

TOPGOLF® IS TAKING ENTERTAINMENT GAME TO NEW LEVEL IN LAS VEGAS

Topgolf® Las Vegas, which is the 25th and flagship entertainment venue in the franchise and the only one with pools, is open now and sits on eight acres behind the MGM Grand. This Topgolf spanning four levels and 105,000 square feet is the biggest one boasting 108 climate-controlled hitting bays, two pools, cabanas, a concert venue, VIP suites, five bars, special event spaces, a comfort food-inspired menu with creative beverage offerings, a Callaway Fitting Studio, a Topgolf retail shop, and more.

At the heart of Topgolf, guests can take over a hitting bay with up to six players at a time with microchipped golf balls, lounge-style seating, and HDTVs. Each level has additional areas to play and hang out. A mobile Sports Book located in The Yard allows sports fans to place a bet while taking in all the action on numerous oversized screens. The Yard also serves as home for main entertainment showcasing both national and local acts. The Birdie Bar is a more intimate live entertainment experience with a small stage.

Topgolf operates Sunday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday and Saturday to 4 a.m. Bay pricing starts at $30 per hour for up to six players and varies depending on bay location and time of day. General admittance into Topgolf is free of charge.

CHEF ROBERT IRVINE WILL OPEN NEW RESTAURANT AT THE TROPICANA

Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, host of Food Network’s “Restaurant: Impossible” is teaming up with Tropicana Las Vegas to open his first signature restaurant on the Strip. At the press conference in true Irvine fashion, the chef made his entrance by rappelling 22 stories down the exterior of the resort. Slated to open in 2017, Chef Irvine will bring his nothing-is-impossible attitude to the all-new modern American-inspired restaurant set to debut on the resort’s casino floor.

WAYNE NEWTON’S NEW SHOW AT BALLY’S IS PERSONALLY ENGAGING

Wayne Newton earned his title “Mr. Las Vegas” with his enduring impact on the city. During his Las Vegas’ heyday, Newton divided his time between Howard Hughes’ hotels… the Desert Inn, Frontier and Sands.

Returning to the stage after more than five years, Newton’s new show in the intimate Windows Showroom at Bally’s is appropriately called “Wayne Newton: Up Close and Personal.” His scaled-down show has four musicians, three video screens, Newton’s instruments, some Q&A and sometimes a special guest.

The show’s special glue is Newton telling true stories about his past with accompanying rare videos. The atmosphere with the small stage is like being in his living room. His tales are really captivating involving meaningful celeb encounters in his life with such fascinating people as Jackie Gleason, Bobby Darin, Jack Benny, Lucille Ball, Dean Martin, Robert Goulet, etc., and his USO tours entertaining our troops since Vietnam.

You’re also reminded Newton, now 74, was a child prodigy and can play 13 instruments. He shows some of his skills on the piano, guitar and ukulele and shares some tunes ending with his signature “Danke Schoen.”

PAUL ZERDIN IS HAPPILY MOUTHING OFF AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

Master comedy ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, the Season 10 winner of “America’s Got Talent,” has opened his first headlining show on the Strip, “Paul Zerdin: Mouthing Off” at the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood. His act features Zerdin and his trio of comical misfits: the belligerent Albert; precocious infant Baby; and sharp-tongued Sam.

There’s plenty of room for both “America’s Got Talent” winners Terry Fator at The Mirage and now Zerdin. Their acts are quite different with Zerdin being called the “ventriloquist for the South Park generation,” which is pretty accurate.

ALIANTE’S THE PATIO AT MRKT IS INTIMATE LUNCH SETTING

Media had a chance to experience Aliante’s the patio @ MRKT, taste some of the food selections and enjoy jazz guitar Dirk K. The outdoor setting right outside the MRKT restaurant has its own convenient separate outside entrance. Unlike el fresco settings on the busy Strip, this is an enclosed walled-in private area. Food selections include starters, soups and salads, MRKT specialties, sandwiches and burgers and featured wines by the glass. If you’re near Aliante in North Las Vegas, this is a great choice Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

RICH LITTLE’S SHOW EXTENDED AT TROP’S LAUGH FACTORY

Legendary comedian and impersonator Rich Little is again having his autobiographical one-man show “Rich Little Live!” extended at the Laugh Factory inside Tropicana Las Vegas. Through January 2017, Little will continue to feature a compilation of impersonations, sketches and interactive video highlighting the actors, musicians, politicians and personalities he has worked with throughout his more than 50 years in entertainment, which spans from his television career in Canada to his first United States appearances to the legendary “Dean Martin Roasts” to the present day.

‘X BURLESQUE’ AT THE FLAMINGO CONTINUES TO SIZZLE

“X Burlesque,” one of the more provocative shows on the Strip, celebrated 14 years this month. Many entertainers from other shows came out to congratulate the producers and cast of the racy show at the Flamingo including the sexy cast of producer Angela Stabile’s other show “X Country” at Harrah’s as well as magician Murray Sawchuck and Chris Phillips of Zowie Bowie.

KYLIE JENNER WILL DEBUT HER DJ SET AT SLS

On Sunday, May 29, “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” sister and socialite Kylie Jenner will do her first-ever DJ set at Foxtail Nightclub at SLS. She will join an A-list musical lineup for a three-day extravaganza featuring hip-hop legends Lil Wayne, Flo Rida, Yo Gotti, Ty Dolla $ign and more.

FAVORITE HARD ROCK BANDS TOUR VISITS ORLEANS ARENA

The “Make America Rock Again” Tour will bring together some of the most popular hard rock bands touring today on Friday, Sept. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Orleans Arena. The all-star lineup includes: Trapt; Saliva; Saving Abel; Alien Ant Farm; Crazytown; 12 Stones; and Tantric. Among these bands, they boast a total of six Platinum albums, six Gold albums, eight No. 1 hits, 17 top #10 hits and more than 14 million total albums sold. Tickets start at $15.

LAS VEGAS MUSEUM ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES MUSEUM SEASON 2016

More than one dozen of arts, science and cultural venues make up the Las Vegas Museum Alliance (LVMA) and will be offering special admission rates, souvenirs and other value-added extras to recognize the city’s Museum Season, May 1 through Sept. 1. The offers are available with the redemption of a voucher, which may be downloaded and printed from the LVMA’s website.

RESTAURANT AND BEVERAGE NEWS TIPS

Cantina Laredo at Tivoli Village will hold its quarterly tequila dinner on Saturday, June 18. Collaborating with Chamucos Tequila, guests will sip on specialty Chamucos tequila cocktails throughout their four-course Mexican meal at 7:30 while a representative talks about the popular tequila brand and Executive Chef Damon Workman explains the ingredients and the strategy behind cuisine and cocktail pairings. Dinner is $49.99, call 702-202-4511.

This summer, Oscar’s steakhouse at the Plaza downtown is debuting a special summer cocktail menu with four new drinks, new daily happy hour menu items including the RICO burger in the lounge from 4 to 7 p.m., and starting June 1 an early bird prime rib meal from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday is still Ladies Night at Oscar’s, where ladies drink free during happy hour, and Oscar’s beef sliders trio is available for $5.

La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway inside Wynn is introducing new custom-curated beer flight selections. Served on hand-crafted trays, La Cave offers four flight varieties: Light, Love, Riches and Fruit priced between $13 and $15. Each flight consists of four three-ounce pours from different regions with unique taste descriptions and exclusive brewing techniques.

Sin City Brewing Co. has released a new craft beer, Sin City Spring Bock, which is a German-style beer and part of the company’s Sin City’s seasonal beer program. Spring Bock is on tap at the brewery’s largest location on Las Vegas Boulevard at Harmon Corner and at its bar in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian.

BRAVO! Cucina Italiana at the Galleria at Sunset is offering loyalty member specials Monday through Thursday all summer long including: buy-one, get-one pasta deal on Monday; all-you-can-eat pasta for $9.95 on Tuesday; $5 Martinis on Wednesday; and half-off wine on Thursday.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has new appetizers and entrée selections on its expansive menu as well as new summer cocktails like the Skinny Margarita.

At MOzen Bistro on Mandarin Oriental’s third floor, the Strawberry Yogurt Parfait is quickly building a reputation with its layers of homemade vanilla yogurt, citrus granola, nuts, fresh strawberries, and special ingredient whipped pistachio yogurt on top.

STREAMLINED NEWS

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is adding nearly 18,000 square feet of meetings and convention space to the property and holding a topping off ceremony this week. Upon completion this winter, the Hard Rock will have nearly 110,000 square feet of meetings and convention space.

The Fremont Hotel and Casino downtown celebrated 60 years in business this month, and will continue its diamond anniversary celebrations every Thursday throughout the summer with kiosk games, dining specials, Slot Dollar drawings and even a special commemorative gaming chip. Cupcakes will be served every Thursday at 2 p.m. at The Filament bar.

LAX Nightclub at the Luxor will bring back old school starting Thursday, May 26, when Rob Base rocks the microphone for the venue’s Throwback Thursday series. The “It Takes Two” artist ushers in several Memorial Day week festivities, which include a special “I Love the ‘90s Tour” after party with Salt-N-Pepa on Saturday, May 28, followed by the next Throwback Thursday performance by Twista on June 2.

Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation will host its 16th Annual Firefighter Bachelor Auction on Friday, June 3 from 7–11:30 p.m. with an after party to follow inside The Foundry at SLS Las Vegas. Bachelors will be paired with prize packages with proceeds benefitting The Burn Survivor Initiative, a program that provides medical and emotional assistance to local burn survivors. Early bird tickets start at $40 for females, $80 for men and $80 for couples.
On Wednesday, May 25 from 10 a.m. to noon, nationally recognized cannabis experts and state leaders will discuss regulatory challenges, necessary reforms and why research is needed at the UNLV Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies Auditorium.

The+Source medical marijuana dispensary, located at 2550 S. Rainbow Blvd., will offer an informational orientation and seminar about the various uses of medical cannabis for patients at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 2.

Crazy Horse III gentlemen’s club and late-night party destination will bring back the Neon Flow party experience with a performance starting at 3 a.m. by MOBIUS 8™ on Wednesday, June 8. This DJ translates motion into sound through his “Electronica Performance Art” laser light shows using innovative technology he created.

MOVIE NEWS ITEMS

Following a triumphant reception on the festival circuit from Tribeca to Toronto and a theatrical world premiere in New York, director Kevin Kerslake’s critically acclaimed documentary “As I Am: The Life And Time$ Of DJ AM, about the life and untimely passing of legendary DJ and mash-up pioneer DJ AM aka Adam Goldstein will receive a special Vegas premiere at Brenden Theatres at the Palms on Wednesday, June 1. The official screening after-party, which will be open to the public, will take place at 10:30 p.m. at Ghostbar with DJs spinning tribute sets.

Twice Magician of the Year and local Las Vegan, magician Lance Burton is now an award-winning filmmaker with his family feature film “Billy Topit Master Magician.” The Wild Rose judging team gave the magic-infused romp six awards, including a coveted Best Award as the Best Family Film at the 2016 festival.

FUTURE NOTEWORTHY EVENTS

The 44th Annual Las Vegas Greek Festival will take place Sept.16-18 at the St. John Greek Orthodox Church. Open to the public, everything will be Greek including continuous dancing to two live Greek bands, the Olympians and Etho Ellas, ethnic cuisine, shops with clothing, jewelry, art and a children’s area. Admittance is adults $6; children 12 and under free; military and immediate family free with valid ID.

The Henderson Pavilion will offer a screening of Fritz Lang’s restored 1927 retro-future silent film “Metropolis,” accompanied by the Henderson Symphony Orchestra presenting Gottfried Huppertz’s original musical score at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 10. Tickets are $10 and $15, call 702-267-4TIX (4849).

CELEBRATING NATIONAL FOOD AND WINE DAYS

In Las Vegas theme days Like National Wine Day, National Hamburger Day and National Donut Day are celebrated.

For National Wine Day, Wednesday, May 25, La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn will host a complimentary afternoon wine tasting offering two rosé selections from 3-5 p.m. The words “In Vino Veritas” or “in wine there is truth” are illuminated in red LED on the restaurant’s ceiling.

TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars will celebrate Wine Wednesday with $7 wines by the glass offered all day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on May 25. In addition, there will be happy hour specials from 2 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to closing, including fried calamari, eggplant crisps, homemade meatballs, and more, all for $6.

Saturday, May 28 will be National Hamburger Day. Downtown’s Carson Kitchen will feature the Butter Burger for $14 featuring Boursin and cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and a side of spicy tots. At the new Dog Haus Vegas, it’s The Hangover Burger with smoked bacon, chili, a fried egg, and white American cheese served on grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls.

National Donut Day will be Friday, June 3. Dunkin’ Donuts will celebrate by offering guests a free donut of their choice while supplies last and excluding Croissant Donuts and Squares with the purchase of any beverage. The offer is good all day on June 3 at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide.

VENETIAN, PALAZZO AND SANDS EXPO HOLD FOOD DRIVE COMPETITION

In honor of World Hunger Day on May 28, Las Vegas Sands Corp. has partnered with local nonprofit Three Square Food Bank to hold the third-annual “Hunger is Not a Game” food drive, May 20 to June 20. The month-long team member initiative, part of the company’s Sands® ECO360° and Sands® Cares programs, will culminate with an innovative “Can Construction” challenge, which was a huge success last year. Using the theme “Sustainable Summer,” company departments will challenge one another to build a piece of artwork with the cans collected.

WEST COAST CONFERENCE SIGNS EXTENSION AT ORLEANS ARENA

The West Coast Conference after eight years in Las Vegas and Boyd Gaming have made a three-year contract extension that will keep the West Coast Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships at the Orleans Arena through 2019. As part of the new agreement, The Orleans will make several venue enhancements, highlighted by the installation of a new center-hung high-definition video board.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, May 29, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

LAS VEGAS SANDS PLANS TO BUILD 17,500-SEAT CONCERT VENUE

Seriously…Las Vegas Sands Corp. has announced plans to build a new 400,000-square-foot, 17,500-seat live music venue behind its Strip resorts in partnership with the Madison Square Garden Company. The indication is they would focus on offering a variety of live shows — including large concert tours, residencies and other productions — and a “unique seating design” putting all seats in front of the stage with options for luxury seating and “exclusive clubs and lounges.” The venue could be used for UFC mixed martial arts events as well.

In addition, Sands and Majestic Realty Co. are pushing plans for a $1.4 billion, 65,000-seat domed stadium that could potentially house an NFL franchise, most likely the Oakland Raiders.

MORIMOTO LAS VEGAS WILL OPEN AT MGM GRAND THIS FALL

Masaharu Morimoto, renowned Japanese chef and star of Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” will open his contemporary Japanese restaurant Morimoto Las Vegas at MGM Grand this fall. Previously slated to open at The Mirage, the venue will instead relocate to the MGM Grand and take the location currently occupied by Shibuya. The new restaurant will feature exquisite design along with signature sushi creations and sensational cocktail offerings.

‘XAVIER MORTIMER'S MAGICAL DREAM’ WILL OPEN AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

French export Xavier Mortimer after gracing stages in more than 30 countries and most recently starring in Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson ONE,” is the first Cirque performer to launch a headlining show on the Strip. “Xavier Mortimer’s Magical Dream” will open in the Sin City Theater at Planet Hollywood on June 6 and transport audiences into Mortimer’s dream world. Performances will be nightly except Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Mortimer is involved with every aspect of this production down to composing the majority of the music. The 70-minute show with more than 14 acts is directed by fellow Frenchman and international celebrity Alex Goude, whose show “Twisted” closed recently after a 12-week run at Westgate.

RED MERCURY ENTERTAINMENT MANAGES THEATER AT STRATOSPHERE

Red Mercury Entertainment has made a venue management agreement with the Stratosphere to bring shows and events to the Stratosphere Theater and run the box office beginning July 12.

The current Stratosphere entertainment programming includes “MJ Live” and “PIN UP™” starring Playboy’s 2011 Playmate of the Year® Claire Sinclair.

New to the resort will be “Spy escape & Evasion” opening Aug.17-18 and 19-20 with additional future seminars announced at a later date. This is a widely effective two-day seminar and training course taught by Ex-CIA agent Jason Hanson designed to keep individuals and their families safe from danger. Tickets are $1,499.95. Participants can also take part in a special VIP dinner and meet-and-greet with Hanson at Las Vegas’ El Dorado Cantina limited to 30 seats following day one of the two-day seminar for $250.

OIL & VINEGAR OPENS NEW STORE AT DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN

Locally owned and operated by sisters Catherine Shuman and Lisa Salgado, Oil & Vinegar, a Netherlands-based culinary boutique store specializing in gourmet food and cooking products from around the world, opened a new store in the Downtown Summerlin shopping center.

Guests of Oil & Vinegar located just outside the entrance to Dillard’s are encouraged to sample, taste and experience the store’s vast imported selection. Owners also recommend being original by throwing a private corporate team-building event or girl’s night out tasting party.

VEGAS’ OOGOOG PRODUCTIONS DEBUTS ‘DEALER’ FILM

Las Vegas’ full-service film development and production company, oogoog productions, will debut the anthology film “Dealer,” a quirky Las Vegas-based cinematic collaboration comprised of five directors that features four individual segments in one film, at the opening night of the Las Vegas Film Festival on Tuesday, June 7 at Inspire Theater downtown.

The movie was shot and filmed solely in the Las Vegas-area by UNLV alumni-turned-successful-supergroup of filmmakers. The idiosyncratic movie montage is centered around a blackjack dealer who is forced into becoming a drug dealer for a day with disastrous results.

SUNCOAST FEATURES SHIRELLES AND THE CHIFFONS DOO WOP CLASSICS

Shirley Alston Reeves, original lead singer of the Shirelles, and The Chiffons will bring nostalgic doo wop 50s and 60s classics to the Suncoast Showroom June 25 and 26. Tickets are available from $22.

New Jersey native Reeves made her debut in 1958 with the Shirelles, the first female pop/rock ‘n’ roll group credited with the girl group sound and hits such as “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” “Mama Said” and “Soldier Boy.” Reeves left the group in 1975 to work on a solo career.

The Chiffons, with then-original members Judy Craig, Patricia Bennett, Barbara Lee, and Sylvia Peterson, exploded onto the music scene in the early 60s with “He’s So Fine.” The Chiffons’ current lineup includes original member Judy Craig, her daughter Dawn Craig, and niece Jubilee Clark.

HONEY SALT OFFERS SPECIAL SUMMER FARM TABLE DINNER

Local dining spot, Honey Salt at 1031 S. Rampart Blvd., will hold a four-course Farm Table dinner on Tuesday, June 7 at 6:30 p.m. A Summer Picnic at Honey Salt created by Chef Robert Camacho will spotlight creative twists on summer grill favorites and farm-fresh summer fruits and offer an optional themed beverage pairing. The dinner is $49 and pairing $25.

FIRST HYDRO-FEST BEING HELD IN NEARBY PAHRUMP

The first ever industry-wide hydroflight event, Hydro-Fest 2016, featuring the best hydroflight athletes in the world of jetboarding, jetpacking and jetbiking will be held in Pahrump at the Spring Mountain Motor Resort & Country Club June 10-12.The family-friendly weekend will be a hybrid of sport, competition, festival and fun. A lakeside hydroflight expo village will showcase all the latest hydroflight related products and services along with food and drink. Other beach related fun will include slack lines, beach volleyball, paddleboards, lifeguard-monitored swim area, bounce house, floating lily pads and huge floating water balls that will also be available. After the sun goes down on Saturday night, the expert flyers from Jetpack Invasion will be donning their state-of-the-art LED lightsuits to put on a flying laser light show.

SIX STATION CASINO RACE & SPORTS BOOKS RECEIVE RENOVATIONS

Station Casinos is renovating and enhancing technology at six of its Race & Sports Books across the valley. Green Valley Ranch Resort is now the third, Sunset Station will follow in early July, Santa Fe Station also in July and Palace Station in August with the upgrades. It was the changes at Red Rock last year that started the ball rolling and Boulder Station was the second to receive improvements.

15TH ANNUAL REGGAE IN THE DESERT FEATURES CARIBBEAN SOUNDS

Reggae in the Desert, Las Vegas’ largest Reggae festival, showcases Reggae music and the Caribbean lifestyle. The 15th annual music festival will be held on Saturday, June 15 from noon to 11 p.m. at the Clark County Amphitheatre and have a vendor village. The all-ages music festival features Capelton, Don Carlos, Israel Vibration, Fortunate Youth, Junior Marvin and New Kingston. Tickets on Ticketfly range from $35 to VIP at $120.

JERRY’S NUGGET HOLDS BINGO’S $7,250 STARS AND STRIPES BIG GAME

In North Las Vegas, Jerry’s Nugget Bingo Hall’s $7,250 Stars and Strips Big Game is set for July 2 at 9 p.m. Entry tickets go on sale June 5. For $25, entry includes one six-on pack, one Bonanza, and reserved seating into the 17-game event. Featured in the big game schedule are four $1,000 coveralls, 13 games with $250 payouts, and a 10-game warm up session paying $100 each (warm up games are not included with entry fee).

QUICK ENTERTAINMENT HIGHLIGHTS

Maroon 5 will return for the fourth consecutive year to ring in a New Year. The group with Adam Levine will perform Dec. 30 and 31 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.

Multi-Grammy Award-winning and top-selling salsa artist Marc Anthony will perform at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood to celebrate Mexican Independence Day on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 10 p.m. Tickets range in price from $105 to $301.

The Golden Nugget’s 52 Fridays Concert Series lineup for June in the Gordie Brown Showroom includes: Grass Roots June 3; Melissa Manchester June 10; “The Temptations Review” featuring Dennis Edwards and Martha Reeves and The Vandellas June 17; and Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals June 24.

The Arthritis Foundation will host its annual Voices for a Cure starring Terry Fator benefit event on Wednesday, June 8 at The Mirage. The exclusive $200 donors VIP cocktail reception with Fator will be from 5 to 7 p.m. followed by the show at 7:30 p.m. with general admission being $75.

Face The Funk, the brain child of award-winning composer Frank Klepacki, will present their funky tribute to The Purple One on the day of his birth at Brooklyn Bowl Tuesday, June 7 at 9:30 p.m. This band is comprised of an all-star lineup featuring musicians who have toured with such names as The Family Stone, Gladys Knight, and Celine Dion. Tickets are $7.

Las Vegas showman Tony Sacca is making a return engagement to the CasaBlanca in Mesquite an 80-minute drive from Las Vegas with a patriotic show “All-American Music: From Sea to Shining Sea” on Saturday, June 4 with special guest Genevieve Dew, along with the Sexy Saccettes and live orchestra conducted by Grammy Award winner Gary Anderson. General admission tickets start at $15.

Genevieve Dew performs on Wednesday nights from 8-11 p.m. at Trattoria Reggiano’s outdoor experience at Downtown Summerlin.

Sanders Winery Summer Concert Series in nearby Pahrump will present “The Unknown Comic” starring Murray Langston and “The Heidi Ho Comedy Show” starring Heidi Thompson on June 4 and “An Evening of Tom Jones” starring Steve McCoy on June 18. Tickets are $25 and $20 respectfully for the 7:30 p.m. shows.

The F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events) club’s 12th Anniversary will be held on Monday, July 18 at the Italian American Club on East Sahara with special guest performer Gordie Brown.

“June Tunes” will be featured for Downtown’s June 3 First Friday event, including E320’s lineup of entertainment from 5–11 p.m. – DeBlanc Music, Rising Stars, Anna Duerden and Kerfoot & Dan – on the City of Las Vegas stage.

Lorraine Hunt-Bono and Dennis Bono are assisting in compiling a list of entertainers who live in Las Vegas and performed at the Riviera Hotel. Please email your name, contact information and year(s) performing there to TheDennisBonoShow@yahoo.com. A photo is optional.

NEWS TIDBITS AND CLIPS

Officials for Moulin Rouge Holdings held a groundbreaking on the date the original historic property opened in 1955 for the potential new Moulin Rouge Las Vegas at 900 W. Bonanza Road opening in 2019. The budget for the development is between $100 million and $150 million.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino held its “topping-off” ceremony last week for its nearly 18,000 square feet addition to the current meeting and convention space. Expected to be completed by this winter, the project will also include 5,000 square feet of back-of-house storage and office space, relocation of the business center, and new exterior signage along Paradise Road.

The fifth annual Health, Healing & Happiness conference will be held June 10-12 at Tuscany Suites & Casino. Now the largest event in Nevada for nutrition and natural solutions for the whole body, mind and spirit, the conference will feature 17 world-class speakers with eight being renowned vegan chefs offering presentations and a Holistic Health Expo and Welcome Reception.

The 48 Miss Teen USA contestants visiting Las Vegas for the Miss USA Competition will all take a 30-minute ride on the High Roller on Friday, June 3 at 5 p.m.

TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops in honor of National Cheese Day Saturday, June 4 will feature $10 cheese-loaded pizzas from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Summer Wine Walk will be held at Downtown Container Park on Saturday, June 4 from 6-9 pm. Tickets online are $20-$25.

Mike Ditka’s Gridiron Greats Hall of Fame Dinner honoring 2016 inductees will be held at the Veil Pavilion at the Silverton on Friday, June 3. Tickets are $250.

Dr. Cesar Lozano will present his most requested conference to Sam’s Town Live! helping the Spanish-speaking community to better understand the opposite sex and personalities in different types of partners on Thursday, June 9. Tickets for the 8 p.m. presentation start at $53.

The National Fire Protection Association will host its annual Conference & Expo at Mandalay Bay June 13–16. As the largest annual education event in fire and life safety, it will feature more than 140 educational sessions, a 270-exhibitor expo showcasing the latest technologies and an all-new interactive Discovery District.

NEXT RESTAURANT WEEK WILL BE JUNE 6-17

Restaurants are announcing their participation and special menus for in the 10th Annual Las Vegas Restaurant Week, June 6-17, to benefit Three Square Food Bank.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar will offer a multi-course, prix-fixe menu for $50 with one entrée choice from the following: Pollo alla Parmigiana; Vitello Piccata; Osso Buco; and Salmone.

Batali & Bastianich Hospitality Group’s (B&BHG) restaurants are participating including: B&B Ristorante dinner $50; Carnevino Italian Steakhouse dinner $80; B&B Burger & Beer - all day menu $30 per person; and Otto Enoteca E Pizzeria lunch $30 and dinner $40.

Triple George Grill downtown will partake with special lunch $20 and dinner $40 menus to support the culinary event.

SOME SPECIAL FATHER’S DAY DINING OPTIONS

La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway inside Wynn will offer a Father’s Day menu and cocktail pairing from 4 p.m. to closing on Sunday, June 19 for $49.

Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at the Luxor will honor dads with food and drink specials on Sunday, June 19 including the newly introduced Surf and Turf, an 8-ounce ribeye steak served with poblano rajas and two jumbo grilled tiger shrimp topped with arbol cream sauce for $32 and the option to pair a tequila flight for an additional $13.

CRUSH at MGM Grand will celebrate with a decadent dinner for dad, Chef William DeMarco’s signature ‘Surf & Turf’ entrée paired with a pint of Stella for $49.

OTTO Enoteca E Pizzeria at St. Mark's Square inside The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian will be offering dads 2-for-1 draft Peroni beer from 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin, will celebrate padres with drink specials including a “loaded beer” featuring $2 Sauza Hornitos Lime or Spiced Honey tequila shots with the purchase of any draft or bottled beer and tequila shots with $5 pours of Sauza Hornitos Lime, Spiced Honey or Black Barrel tequila on Father’s Day weekend, June 17-19.

Jerry’s Nugget in North Las Vegas is offering Dad’s Day specials in the coffee shop from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. including 20-ounce Papa’s Porterhouse for $20.89 and Steak and Twin Lobster Tails for $26.89-$29.89, plus a couple more deals.

NEON MUSEUM’S FIRST NATIONAL ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE VISITS IN JUNE

This spring, the Neon Museum downtown issued a nationwide call for entries to compete for a month-long National Artist Residency in Las Vegas. San Francisco-based artist Whitney Lynn was selected from among 20 entrants and will reside downtown from June 1–30. She will deliver an artist’s talk on Wednesday, June 15 from 6–7:30 p.m. and hold a studio open house on Thursday, June 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. Both events are free to the public and will take place at the Neon Museum National Artist in Residence studio space, located at 418 West Mesquite Ave., Suite 130. The residency was made possible through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

GRANT A GIFT AUTISM FOUNDATION CONTINUES 5K FOR AUTISM EVENT

Grant a Gift Autism Foundation will continue its 7th annual Race for Hope and Fun Walk on Saturday, June 11 with the Kidz Run, Fun Walk, Autism Family Resource Fair and KidZone after the festivities on April 30 were cut short by the rain with only the 5K timed race being completed. On June 11, all participants are invited back to finish the event and enjoy the family-friendly activities with “Part 2.” Register online at Grant A Gift Foundation.org.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, June 5, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

MARVEL’S AVENGERS S.T.A.T.I.O.N. IS NEW ATTRACTION

Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. (Scientific Training and Tactical Intelligence Operative Network) is a new immersive and educational experience at Treasure Island allowing guests of all ages to gain access to intelligence files, classified studies and experiments that explore the history and scientific origins of the characters. Visitors are taken deep into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. On display is an extensive range of Avengers special equipment. There’s also an opportunity to map out the stars to Asgard and to learn to operate Iron Man’s suit. Attraction is open daily at 10 a.m. with the last ticket sold at 9 p.m. Admission is $34 adults, $24 children. Open Daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

HARD ROCK OPENS NEVADA’S FIRST GOOSE ISLAND PUB

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will open Nevada’s first Goose Island Pub this month and offer eight of its signature beers on tap along with bottles of Bourbon County and a wide selection of wines, liquor and pub-style food. Goose Island Beer Company is one of Chicago’s original craft beer companies since 1988.

TUSCANY WILL OPEN RARE AND CRAFT BEER HAVEN PUB 365

Craft beer haven PUB 365 will open this summer inside the Tuscany featuring 365 rotating craft beers and 40 draft handles. The collection will also include an evolving list of rare, specialty brews that will be special to PUB 365. The entire service team will be Cicerone-certified beer servers trained to provide pairing suggestions to complement guests’ traditional pub fare meals. The pub on the east end of the casino floor will feature nearly 1,800 square feet of dining space and an additional 1,052-square-foot private dining room for events and private parties.

STRATOSPHERE WILL OPEN ‘SPY ESCAPE & EVASION’ IN AUGUST

Red Mercury Entertainment has a venue management agreement with the Stratosphere to bring shows and events to the Stratosphere Theater and run the box office. Current Stratosphere entertainment includes “MJ Live” – Michael Jackson tribute show and “Pin UP™” starring Playboy’s 2011 Playmate of the Year® Claire Sinclair.

A new experience “Spy Escape & Evasion” will open Aug. 17. It is a two-day seminar and training course taught by Ex-CIA agent Jason Hanson designed to keep individuals and their families safe from danger. After almost a decade in the CIA, Hanson offers real-world spy safety experience and techniques.

FAMILY SHOW ‘POPOVICH COMEDY PET THEATER’ OPENS AT V THEATER

The “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater” just celebrated 10 years in Las Vegas relaunching shows at the V Theater at Planet Hollywood Tuesday-Saturday at 4 p.m. This show features circus performers, variety acts and a lineup of dogs, cats, mice, geese and even a mini horse. All of the pets on stage have been rescued from animal shelters, earning the show the nickname “The Second Chance Show.”

Gregory Popovich, who is a great juggler, has had an incredible list of accomplishments including: finalist on “America’s Got Talent;” voted “Performer of the Year” by the American Circus Association; and author of two books – “How to Train Your Cat” and “Doggy Gone Good.”

There is a $10 ticket special for Nevada locals through June 30 using promo code Vegas10.

GOLDEN RAINBOW’S ‘RIBBON OF LIFE’ CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

In celebration of Golden Rainbow’s 30th Anniversary, this year’s theme for the “Ribbon of Life” fundraising show at the Tropicana Theater on Sunday, June 12 at 1 p.m. is “Throwback 30” – a retrospect of the last 30 years of shows. Attendees will see some of the best numbers and acts from previous shows - “reimagined” for 2016. Tickets range from $50 to $200 for VIP.

The ThrowBack 30 After-Party will be held in the Havana Room from 3-7 p.m.

COMEDIAN STEVEN WRIGHT RETURNS TO ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Comedian Steven Wright will return to The Orleans Showroom June 17 and 18. At 23, he launched his comedy career and got his big break on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson. His new kind of comedy and lackluster voice caught the comedy world’s attention. Tickets start at $29.
In 1985, Wright received a Grammy nomination for his debut album, “I Have a Pony” and 22 years later a second Grammy nomination for its sequel, “I Still Have a Pony.” In 1989, Wright won an Academy Award for Best Short Film for his satiric film, “The Appointments of Dennis Jennings,” which he co-starred in and wrote.

MGM HOSTS BRAD GARRETT’S ANNUAL CHARITY POKER TOURNAMENT

The MGM Grand will host Brad Garrett’s annual Maximum Hope Foundation Charity Poker Tournament Saturday, July 2 on the casino floor starting at noon. The tournament offers participants the opportunity to play alongside Garrett, Willie Garson (“White Collar” and “Sex and the City”) and other celebrities as well as professional poker players. All event proceeds will benefit Maximum Hope Foundation founded by Garrett in 2000 as a nonprofit organization offering urgent financial relief to families caring for a child with a life-limiting illness.

The tournament is No-Limit Hold’em with a $250 entry fee. The first-place prize is $10,000 and Garrett will auction off two seats to his private home poker game with Ray Romano. Wolfgang Puck will donate a buffet brunch.

DAVE & BUSTER’S TO OPEN FIRST NEVADA LOCATION

Dave & Buster’s will open its first Nevada location in August in Downtown Summerlin® and will begin hiring more than 250 team members at the end of June. The 33,000-square-foot venue will offer upscale cuisine, innovative cocktails and hundreds of games, along with massive HDTVS for watching sports. Dave & Buster’s, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, operates 84 high-volume large-venue, restaurant/entertainment complexes throughout North America.

PT’S PUB OPENS 50TH NEVADA LOCATION

PT’s Entertainment Group, a division of Golden Entertainment, Inc. and the largest traditional tavern operator in Nevada, is holding a grand opening Thursday, June 9 of its 50th tavern at 6450 S. Durango Drive. What started in 1982 as a sole PT’s Pub on the east side at 1651 Palm Street has grown to more than 50 taverns throughout the state with 48 located in Southern Nevada.
The company will open a new Sierra Gold tavern West Flamingo Road later this summer at the site of the former Sedona Restaurant & Lounge.

THIS SUMMER BELLAGIO’S CONSERVATORY CREATES OCEANIC OASIS

The current display at Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens embarks on an underwater voyage with ancient ruins and a 35-foot sunken ship resting atop a coral reef now through Sept. 10. The expedition begins in the East Garden with an aquatic tunnel featuring two arching 20-foot salt water aquariums with schools of fish.

Some other focal points include: remnants of an ancient ruin wall; sea animals exploring an undersea tropical waterfall; scuba divers swimming among the wreckage; a mermaid made of sand and fresh cut carnations; and a 14-foot long whale spouting water, made of 1,000 succulents.

CRAZY PITA OFFERS PAINT, DRINK AND DINE SERIES

Crazy Pita Rotisserie & Grill at Town Square, which specializes in healthy Mediterranean cuisine and nutritious seasonal foods, is partnering with Pinot’s Palette through Sept. 8 to once again offer the Paint–Drink-Dine summer painting events on select Thursday nights from 6-8 p.m. Guests will learn from local artists. The cost is $39, which includes painting materials and supplies, one appetizer per table per person, and a 25 percent of the proceeds being donated to the Josh Stevens Foundation. Happy Hour prices are offered to Paint Party guests at 50 percent off beer and wine. Reservations required at website for Pinot’s Palette.

T-MOBILE ARENA ATTRACTS UNBEATABLE STAR POWER

The new T-Mobile Arena is keeping a powerful superstar lineup. Some upcoming names include: Garth Brooks with Trisha Yearwood June 24 and 25; Dixie Chicks July 16; Barbra Streisand Aug. 6; Gwen Stefani with Eve Aug.19; Coldplay with Alessia Cara Sept. 1; George Strait Sept. 9-10, Dec. 2-3, and Feb. 17-18; Drake with Future Sept. 11; Keith Urban with Brett Eldredge & Maren Morris Oct.21; and Carrie Underwood with Easton Corbin and The Swon Brothers Nov. 26.

FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE OFFERS FREE SUMMER CONCERTS

Fremont Street Experience Rock of Vegas concert series is celebrating its eighth anniversary delivering free entertainment. This year’s lineup runs through Labor Day and features: June 11– 3 Doors Down; July 2– Cherry Poppin’ Daddies; July 23– Robby Krieger of The Doors; Aug. 6– Vertical Horizon; Aug. 20– Melissa Etheridge; and Sept. 3– Smash Mouth.

The Grammy Award®-nominated multi-platinum Mississippi rock band 3 Doors Down will appear on Saturday, June 11 at 9 p.m. on the 3rd Street Stage. The group is fresh off the release of their sixth full-length album “Us and the Night.”

EDC WILL OFFER NEW ATTRACTIONS IN CARNIVAL SQUARE

North America’s largest dance music festival, Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), returns June 17–19 to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway with new additions and attractions in the festival’s central chill zone destination, Carnival Square. Last year, Insomniac premiered Carnival Square in the center of the Speedway with a host of conveniently located amenities, such as charging stations, a merchandise tent, photo booths, food options, a lost and found center, and more. This year there will be five new features, including free Wi-Fi and costume contests, etc.

DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN® HOLDS SUMMER OUTDOOR MOVIE SERIES

The Summer Screen Series presented by Summerlin Hospital is returning to Downtown Summerlin® for the second year showing family-friendly movies on Park Centre Drive every Thursday evening through Aug. 25. Some of the blockbusters this year include “Cinderella,” “Finding Nemo,” “inside Out” and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” The viewings are free and patrons may bring their own blankets or lawn chairs.

New this year is a VIP section with viewing chairs available for guests who spend a minimum of $20 at the center the day of the movie (first-come, first-served). Downtown Summerlin restaurants are partnering by offering access to select quick beverage and snack service options during the films.

Before each movie begins, special character appearances, giveaways, prizes and complimentary USTA hosted tennis clinics will be available courtesy of a different community partner each week.

BORDER GRILL MAKES ‘LOVE’ THE MAIN DISH

The fourth Border Grill Patio Series event is in partnership with Love FrogKisser – an innovative matchmaking service focused on connecting consciously and finding love. Border Grill Mandalay Bay is hosting Amor à la Carte on Friday, June 17 from 6-8 p.m.

This will not be a random matchmaking event. Each single purchasing a ticket will be contacted by Love FrogKisser’s founder Dallisa Hocking to determine the most impactful pairings. Every person will link up with someone new for the first four seated courses served on the patio. The fifth and final course will be mixer-style. Early bird tickets through June 7 are $79 and $99 after that.

SOUTH POINT ARENA HOSTS FREE HORSE AND BMX EVENTS

All of the following events are open to the public and free. The Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association (PCCHA) “Core Balance” Derby & Classic Challenge and Western Gift Show will take place Friday-Sunday, June 10–19. The Gold Rush Peruvian Classic Horse Show follows Friday-Sunday, June 24–26. The EMO Western States Championship has been added Wednesday-Sunday, July 6–10. Throughout the event, registered American Quarter horses and AQHA members will compete.

The USA BMX 2016 Las Vegas Nationals have been scheduled Friday– Sunday, July 15–17. Fans will witness the top amateur BMX racers sprint through big jumps, steep backsides and deep turns to win.

FERRARO’S OFFERS SEVEN NEGRONI WEEK COCKTAIL SPECIALS

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar will offer seven variations on the classic Negroni cocktail in honor of Negroni Week, presented by Campari and “Imbibe Magazine.” Negroni Week was launched in 2013 as a celebration of one of the world’s great cocktails and an effort to raise money for charitable causes around the world. Throughout the week, 25 percent of the price of each Negroni cocktail, most are $14, sold at Ferraro’s will be donated to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

PIZZA PIE NEWS

A charity pizza cook-off featuring local media personalities Beth Fisher of ABC 13 KTNV and Doug Elfman of the Las Vegas Review-Journal will be held at TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 15. Each competitor will create a personalized pizza pie and be scored by guest judges including hypnotist, Anthony Cools and the cast of “FANTASY” at the Luxor. The winner will be awarded $500 toward a charity of their choice. In addition, TREVI will offer guests its signature cheese pizza for $10 that day.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is starting the summer off right with the return of its popular, Tuesday Tastings. Every Tuesday June 7 through September, the award-winning pizzeria is offering half-off all glasses, carafes and bottles of wine, as well as glasses of sangria. Promotion excludes house wine.
With two Las Vegas locations, PizzaRev, is offering the following deals: Monday Meal Deal after 2 p.m.; Rev Up Tuesday $6 pizza or entrée salad; The Perfect Pair, which is a happy hour pizza and beer for $9.95 from 4-6 p.m. and 8 p.m. until closing; and Double Dough, which is a thicker crust.

VARIED NEWS ITEMS

A new Las Vegas-based business is Modern Donut, a personalized made-to-order daily area delivery service offering donuts, cronuts (croissant-doughnut pastries) and alcohol-infused signature delicacies. Orders can be placed online or by calling 702-220-3030. A Classic Dozen is $19.99 plus delivery.

The MonteLago Village Beerfest featuring 30 breweries, food trucks and live music will take place at The Village at Lake Las Vegas on Saturday, June 11 from 2-7 p.m. After a two-year absence, village resident The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub will host the official festival’s reboot. There will be wristbands and souvenir sampling glasses for 2,500 beer lovers. Tickets at the admission tent will be $60 VIP for 2 p.m. entry and $45 GA for entry at 3:30 p.m.

Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has a new mobile-friendly website featuring a stylish interface, improved navigation, and a comprehensive snapshot of the 1.2 mile shopping center including an update mall directory.

Town Square is rewarding shoppers again with the return of its Summer Savings promotion. When the daily temperature is forecast on the “my town square” website to reach 105 degrees or above, participating Town Square stores and restaurants will offer shoppers a 15 percent discount.

Wet'n'Wild Las Vegas has a new partnership and one low-price offer with “Legends in Concert” at the Flamingo. For $49.99, the promotion includes one main floor seat at “Legends in Concert” plus one general admission ticket to the water theme park. Tickets can be purchased at wetnwildlasvegas.com/offers/legends with the promo code: LEGENDS.

The race for the Stanley Cup and Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy is on and Beer Park at Paris is holding viewing parties throughout the NHL and NBA finals. Fans sporting their favorite team’s apparel during the series will receive a complimentary Budweiser Signature draft during the best-of-seven finals games.

The 2016 NHL Awards is returning to Las Vegas for their eighth consecutive year. The ceremony will be held on Wednesday, June 22 at The Joint inside Hard Rock.

Award winning singer, songwriter Chadwick Johnson will host “We Are Family,” an inaugural benefit and fundraiser for local veterans and seniors on Wednesday, June 8 in the Veil Pavilion at the Silverton. The show will feature: Zowie Bowie (Chris Phillips), Pia Zadora, Tony Sacca, Eliza Fiorillo, Jimmy Hopper, Anne Martinez, Genevieve Dew, Rich Natole and surprise guests.

DjangoVegas!, a celebration of the music of Django Reinhardt and other Gypsy Jazz Music, returns to downtown Las Vegas, Saturday, June 18 at the Historic Fifth Street School and will feature the Frank Vignola Trio, The Rhythm Future Quartet and The Hot Club of Las Vegas at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Aureole at Mandalay Bay will hold its third Napa - Sonoma Wine Dinner Series on Thursday, June 23 featuring wines from Husic Vineyards. The multi-course dinner is $175. The Nov. 10 dinner will highlight RAEN Winery & Continuum Estate.

Emeril Lagasse’s Las Vegas restaurants – Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian, Table 10 at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Palazzo, and Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House at the MGM Grand – are offering tasting menus at various price points $48 and $65 this summer until Aug. 31.

“Visitors from Space” with archaeologist, author, and award-winning photographer Dr. Peter J. Shield, who has been called “a real Indiana Jones,” will be next in the Distinguished Lecture Series at the National Atomic Testing Museum on Friday, June 10 at 6 p.m. Countless polls have shown that an increasing number of Americans believe that extraterrestrials exist. RSVP by calling 702-794-5151

The Monaco Tower at the Riviera will be imploded on June 14 about 2 a.m. with a separate implosion for the Monte Carlo Tower planned later this summer. Crews have already demolished the hotel’s two parking garages.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, June 12, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

MONTE CARLO WILL BECOME TWO HOTELS

MGM Resorts International is planning to redesign the Monte Carlo Resort and partner with New York-based hotelier Sydell Group on the $450 million renovation with construction completed by the end of 2018. The project will create two hotels. The Park MGM hotel will have 2,700 rooms and incorporate some of the Monte Carlo’s European design influences. The other hotel will be The NoMad Las Vegas and will occupy the top three floors of the existing hotel tower. The 292-room hotel will build on the Sydell Group’s flagship property in New York by the same name.

The change will incorporate a more boutique taste without gaming and aim at appealing to younger, affluent visitors who prefer modern aesthetics over themed properties.

CLINT HOLMES WILL OPEN NEW SHOW AT THE PALAZZO THEATRE

“Clint Holmes: Between The Lines” will open in the newly redesigned Palazzo Theatre on July 16. For Holmes latest adaptation, he will be accompanied on stage by a seven-piece ensemble band. He will also be joined on stage by Cuban-born singer and dancer Noybel Gorgoy, who most recently was featured as the lead singer of the “gypsy” jazz band Hot Club of Las Vegas. The objective with this show is to connect everyone regardless of age or musical preference.

Many recall Holmes headlining at Harrah’s for years and learning about his past growing up with an African-American jazz musician father and a British mother, who was a classically trained opera singer. Holmes has spent decades performing around the globe. He also served as Joan Rivers’ sidekick and announcer on “The Late Show,” and as the musical feature and event correspondent for “Entertainment Tonight.”

The show will run Tuesday through Saturday at 10 p.m. Tickets start at $42.65.

‘JERSEY BOYS’ WILL END ITS LAS VEGAS RUN

Broadway show “Jersey Boys” will close at Paris on Sept. 18 after an eight-year run at two hotels on the Strip. Folks with tickets to shows after Sept. 18 may exchange them for an earlier date or receive a full refund through the source where the tickets were purchased. The adaptation of the career of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons now has the distinction of being the longest-running Broadway-themed show in Las Vegas with “Phantom — The Las Vegas Spectacular” at the Venetian and “Mamma Mia” at Mandalay Bay both running six years.

MEGHAN TRAINOR WILL VISIT COSMOPOLITAN

Meghan Trainor, who is “All About That Bass,” will appear at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan on Wednesday, July 20 at 7 p.m. with special guests Hailee Steinfeld and Common Kings. Trainor will be kicking off her Untouchable Tour, featuring music from her latest album. Tickets start at $29.95.

In 2014, pop singer and songwriter Trainor’s song was one of the biggest singles of the year and certified five times platinum. The following year, she released her debut album, “Title,” which sold more than a million copies. This year, Trainor won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist before releasing her second album, “Thank You.”

EGGSLUT OPENED AT COSMOPOLITAN

Eggslut, already a cult favorite in Los Angeles at Grand Central Market, opened last Friday at the Cosmopolitan on Level 2. It is a chef-driven, gourmet food concept founded in 2011 by Alvin Cailan for true egg lovers. Signature dishes include Bacon, Egg & Cheese Sandwich, The Gaucho Sandwich, and The Slut, a coddled egg on top of smooth potato purée, cooked in a glass jar topped with gray salt and chives, served with slices of baguette. Hours are Mon., Wed.-Fri. 7 a.m.–7 p.m. and Tue., Sat. and Sun. midnight–7 p.m.

AMORINO WILL OPEN U.S. FLAGSHIP LOCATION AT THE LINQ

European gelato brand, Amorino, known for its flower-shaped cone, will reveal authentic traditional Italian ice cream to the LINQ in July, replacing the former location at Town Square. Amorino will have traditional and seasonal gelato flavors with global ingredients such as mangos from India and Pistachio Bronte from Sicily. The eatery will also sell other decadent treats, including gelato-filled macarons, specialty coffee, crepes, waffles, hot cocoa and chocolates. This 1,500-square-foot location will feature a fireplace, sofas and other luxurious seating for about 50 people.

Amorino Las Vegas is owned by Jeremy Decherchi and Nicolas Mouillon who also own the downtown Las Vegas North Premium Outlets outlet.

EXPLORE ANCIENT ROME THIS SUMMER AT NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

From the Italian Artisans who cultivated The Da Vinci Machines Exhibition, comes the Las Vegas premiere of Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World, to be housed at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum as part of its traveling summer exhibit program through Sept. 11. Admission to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum starts at $10 for adults.
With more than 50 intricately crafted and interactive pieces on display, visitors will be offered a hands-on journey through the Roman Imperial period exploring military war machines, significant construction inventions like pottery wheels and grinding mills, large-scale technical innovations like cranes, water pumps and much more. The exhibition also showcases material inventions such as the book, glass windows and long lasting cement.

RIVIERA IMPLOSION IS CAUSE FOR ‘CONFESSIONS’ AND VIEWING PARTY

Events are being tied to the June 14 demolition of the Riviera’s 24-story Monaco tower. The Barrymore just south at the nearby Royal Resort will have a public after-hours viewing party featuring the Social Hour menu plus $2 beers, $5 cocktails and wine at its patio and lounge area that will be open between midnight and 3 a.m. with an expected 2 p.m. boom. Reservations recommended, call 702-407-5303.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s (LVCVA) newest campaign is asking Las Vegas fans to submit a digital “What happens here, stays here” confession to deposit in a “WHHSH Vault” that will be concealed. People submitting entries to www.whhsh.com will be eligible for a free trip to Las Vegas.

‘AMERICAN TRILOGY’ RETURNS TO SOUTH POINT

The 12-member cast of “American Trilogy” will return to South Point, the casino that helped propel the show last July 4 weekend, and perform three nights July 1-3 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20-$30.

This is a Las Vegas production that brings together three of the most beloved entertainers of all time…Frank Sinatra - Gary Anthony, Elvis Presley - Justin Shandor, and Neil Diamond - Rob Garrett. The show is a scripted as “What If” for the three megastars personifying the American Dream. Each tribute artist performs solo segments backed by a live band, and they unite for a moving patriotic finale for the country’s 240th birthday.

The show will be performed again on Saturday, Aug. 20 during “Hot August Night” at the Cannery Casino in North Las Vegas and on Friday, Sept. 9 at Sun City Anthem’s Freedom Hall.

FREAKSHOW WRESTLING RETURNS

After a one-year hiatus, Freakshow Wrestling will return with its largest and craziest show to date on Saturday, June 18 at Fremont Country Club downtown.

Freakshow Wrestling: Bad Decisions features freaky fun including: a Locks of Love Hair v. Hair match to benefit local charity Locks of Love; a Michael Jackson knife fight; an Intergalactic Battle Royal; and the Inner Demons Match with Freakshow Wrestling Champ Funnybone! battling himself. The event will be filmed for a special feature DVD.

The show will present wrestling legends with special appearances by: GWAR’s Techno Destructo; Kreepy Karen; Shocker from “Penn & Teller’s Fool Us;” and Leroy “the Human Tackboard” Patterson from “America’s Got Talent.” Doors open at 8 p.m. and wrestling action begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 at Ticketfly.

WORLD HIP HOP DANCE CHAMPIONSHIP AND WORLD BATTLES RETURN

While the Olympics are in Rio, the world’s top hip hop and street dancers will be competing in Las Vegas at the 2016 World Hip Hop DANCE Championship and World Battles. A record 3,500 dancers representing 50 countries will compete Aug. 6-13 for gold medals and the world title. All events are open to the public. Tickets start at $20.

Championship week begins Aug. 6-7 with the USA Hip Hop DANCE Championship with more than 100 Crews (5 to 8 dancers) and MegaCrews (15 to 40 dancers) competing for the top three U.S. spots advancing to the World Championship.

Next will be the World Hip Hop DANCE Championship, Aug. 9-11 with more than 250 dance Crews and MegaCrews from 50 nations competing in qualifying rounds at the Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort leading up to the World Finals on Aug. 13 at Thomas & Mack Center.

At the World Battles on Aug. 12, the world’s best street dancers will go one-on-one for world titles for B-boys, Poppers, Lockers and All-Stylers.

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN NEVADA DEBUT COOKIES & KEGS

For the first time, Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada will host Cookies & Kegs on Wednesday, June 22 from 5-9 p.m. Signature Girl Scout cookies will be paired with six craft beers from family-run Lovelady Brewing Company and complimentary appetizers will be served at the brewery located in Henderson. During this event, Brewmaster Richard Lovelady will also create a special Girl Scout brew for the cause called Porter deLite. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

OV NATION HOSTS INAUGURAL WINE AND PAINTING EVENT

On Wednesday, June 29 from 6-9 p.m., the public is invited to attend a fundraiser ART: abOVe & BEYOND at Opportunity Village’s Ralph & Betty Engelstad Campus on Buffalo Drive.
An art mentor will assist OVIP artist Alyssa T. in guiding participants through recreating her original painting, “Tree Mirage.” For anyone 21 years of age or older, this event can be experienced in one of two ways. For $45, participants will enjoy music, a silent auction, wine, appetizers, a souvenir wine glass, and an instructional painting session with a canvas and art supplies. A $30 ticket is minus the painting. OVIP artwork, scarves and jewelry will be for sale in the Opportunity Village artWORKS Studio Store. Purchase ticket in advance: http://bit.ly/ARTabOVE.

SPRINGS PRESERVE FEATURES NEVADA WATERCOLOR SOCIETY EXHIBIT

The Springs Preserve is presenting an array of watercolor paintings representing the best of the 2016 Nevada Watercolor Society through July 10. This exhibition of local artwork explores subjects as varied as still life, abstracts, portraits and landscapes. The exhibit is in the Big Springs Gallery of the Origen Museum and open daily through July 10, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibit is free for members or with paid general admission.

PANCHO’S STARTS NEW LINEUP OF NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin, has introduced a new nightly lineup of live entertainment in its cantina. Monday and Tuesday 5-9 is guitarist Edgar Bravo; Tuesday Spanish guitar duo Julio and Cesar 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Rock duo Stefani Savage and Rocky Jackson of STEFnROCK Wednesday and Thursday 6:30-9:30 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday rock and heavy metal group The Saints of Las Vegas 9:30 p.m. to close. Friday and Saturday nights will also feature a rotating lineup of different performers and bands.

DINING HAPPENINGS

On June 14, 1971, Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton opened the first Hard Rock Cafe in London. To celebrate its birthday on Tuesday, June 14 Hard Rock Cafes on the Strip and Paradise Road will offer 71 cent Legendary Burgers to all current and retired civil servants starting at 11 a.m. to closing. Also ‘70s music will be played. Today, Hard Rock has 165 cafes, 23 hotels and 11 casinos across 69 countries.

B&B Burger & Beer at The Venetian with a 2,000-square-foot outdoor patio on the Venetian’s Grand Canal facing Las Vegas Boulevard has launched a new special menu, exclusively available for outside guests through Labor Day from 5-6 p.m. and 10 p.m.-midnight.

MRKT Sea & Land inside Aliante will host an exclusive “Tour of Napa” wine pairing eight-course dinner hosted by 10-year Master Sommelier Joe Phillips at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 23. Price is $100; call 702.692.7265 before 5 p.m.

The Habit Burger Grill, an Irvine, California-based restaurant company renowned for its award-winning Charburgers, opened its second Las Vegas location last week on Blue Diamond Road in the southwest area.

Last week, Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar in Summerlin with a dog-friendly patio debuted a seasonal summer menu featuring new dishes, desserts, and refreshing cocktails.

For a limited time, Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant is offering a seasonal prix-fixe dinner option for $45 featuring three courses of your choosing and closing with a sampling of popular desserts.

FATHER’S DAY RELATED NEWS

In honor of Father’s Day, Ethel M® Chocolates is introducing its new Smoked Sea Salted Caramels. The new flavor is created by smoking coarse sea salt with a blend of seven carefully-selected woods over 14 days. The caramels are available in the Design Your Own chocolate box collection. Ethel M will also highlight a Father’s Day-inspired Classic Collection with a specialty sleeve over the signature gold Ethel M Chocolates box in addition to its Crème Liqueurs.

Dancer, musician and actor, Kevin Federline, will celebrate Father’s Day on late night June 18 with his friends and perform a live DJ set at the gentlemen’s club Crazy Horse III.

MISC. NEWS ITEMS

MGM Resorts International’s dreaded controversial new paid parking program is now in effect charging customers up to $10 a day to park. The parking fees revenue generated will be dedicated to building a new $54 million, 3,000-space parking structure near the Excalibur and investing $36 million in upgrades and enhancements to existing parking facilities. MGM’s current parking lots lack improvements available through technology, including space availability and way-finding systems.

The current lineup for “Legends in Concert” at the Flamingo this summer features tributes to Prince, Elvis Presley, Whitney Houston and Lady Gaga. Legends hailed as a “Las Vegas Strip Institution” was first introduced in 1983 at the Imperial Palace and moved to the Flamingo property in 2013.

“MJ LIVE,” the Michael Jackson tribute concert at the Stratosphere, will start a 5 p.m. matinee show on July 2 that will run every Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4 and also perform nightly at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $59.95.

The new SPEEDVEGAS at 14200 S. Las Vegas Blvd. installed its 100-foot high and 50-foot wide sign, making it one of the largest signs of its kind and the first one incoming Southern California drivers see traveling into Las Vegas.

MGM Resorts International with Republic Services introduced a recycling exhibit full of facts, figures and images of the valley in the Siegfried &Roy Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. The Sustainability Discovery Center, which overlooks the dolphin exhibit, has plastic gallon jugs decorating hanging light fixtures and a sign reading “We can all do more to protect our Blue Planet.”

New York trained actor and comedian Stephen Sorrentino will be in town sharing his experience, theories and techniques with his performance workshop “Finding The Character Within” June 15-18 at Hattie’s House (Arts Space). Sorrentino has been mentoring young performers and artists worldwide for years and will also be presenting in San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York during the remainder of this year.

A middle age musical comedy, “I Know I Came in Here For Something,” will take place at the Summerlin Public Library on Saturday, June 25 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 and $15, call 702-360-8340.

Kelly Clinton will perform her show “Oh, My Half Italian Roots Are Showing” at the Italian American Club on Thursday, June 23 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and $35, call 702-457-3866. Jay Ramsey and Jerry Brown will bring back old school Vegas on Sunday, June 26 at 8 p.m. There will be a $20 cover charge.

For EDC festivalgoers June 17-19, Davidoff Cigar Bar on The Plaza at Fashion Show is offering a complimentary bottle of Fiji Water to anyone purchasing a cocktail and flashing EDC credentials. Also, the bar recently launched a new daily Happy Hour from 6-8 p.m. with all alcoholic beverages being buy-one-get-one.

Essence Educates: Wellness Wednesdays free education program returns to Essence Vegas at 4300 E. Sunset Road, Suite A3 in June at 6:30 p.m. On June 15 it will be How to Make Edibles and June 29 How to Read Test Results. RSVP by visiting the website.

Electric Daisy Carnival’s (EDC) producer Insomniac has planned 20 new over-the-top additions in celebration of the “20 Years Under the Electric Sky” anniversary June 17-19 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. A few of the new elements will include: two wedding chapels, new art cars, new VIP amenities, going green, etc.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, June 19, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

THE ROLLING STONES RETURN TO LAS VEGAS

For the first time in three years since performing at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in May 2013, The Rolling Stones with Mick Jagger have agreed to play Las Vegas again. They will headline the new T-Mobile Arena on Wednesday, Oct. 19. This engagement will follow the group’s debut “Desert Trip” concert tour in Indo, Calif., the site of the Coachella Music Festival.

Most recently The Rolling Stones had a successful Latin American tour with a performance in Havana.

PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY IS IN LAS VEGAS’ FORECAST

It’s looking like Las Vegas will become home to the 31st team in the National Hockey League (NHL) making it the city’s first major professional sports franchise. The 2017-18 season would be the earliest the league would expand. The team would play in the new T-Mobile arena, which seats 17,500 for hockey.

HIGH ROLLER OBSERVATION WHEEL BEGINS OFFERING YOGA SESSIONS

On June 21, International Yoga Day, the High Roller at The LINQ Promenade begins offering yoga sessions on the world’s tallest observation wheel. The experience includes a one-hour yoga session, which is two rotations, with an instructor from Silent Savasana and welcomes up to six guests per cabin. Wearing a headset guests will be guided through the experience listening to the instructor and music. Guests can bring their own mat or borrow a mat that’s been provided by lululemon athletica™ at Fashion Show Mall. They’ll also receive a High Roller branded water bottle.

Guests must book at least 24 hours in advance with up to four people required. Sessions will be available daily from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for $75. A premium sunset option Monday through Wednesday is $85. Private one-on-one yoga sessions are $250 or $300 for a couple.

SIXTEEN BANDS WILL COMPETE TO APPEAR AT LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

Sixteen Las Vegas acts have been selected to compete in a two-week, tournament-style battle, June 25-July 10, at Brooklyn Bowl on The LINQ Promenade to earn the final spot on the lineup for the annual Life is Beautiful 2016 cultural weekend. All competitions are free and open to the public for all ages.

Round one, part one, will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 25 with eight acts performing: All-Night Visitors, Echo Stains, Jessica Manalo, O Wildly, The American Weather, The Musket Vine, Walk Off Hits and We Are Pancakes. Round one, part two, is at 7 p.m. the next night Sunday, June 26 and will feature: Brittany Rose, Chop808, Daniel Park Band, Ekoh, Glass Pools, Moonboots, Silversage and The Noir Movement.

Round two will be on Friday, July 1 at 7 p.m. for a spot in the final four. The semifinal round on Sunday, July 10 will narrow the field from four to two, beginning at 7 p.m. The finals will be held immediately following the semifinals, with the winner announced later the same evening.

CHRIS COLLINS PERFORMS JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE SHOW AT SUNCOAST

The Suncoast Showroom will present “Chris Collins & Boulder Canyon: A Tribute to John Denver” on July 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. The show celebrates Denver and his songs that brought him to the forefront of country music in the 1970s. Collins personifies the late Denver from his sounds to his look. Tickets are available from $19.50.

CAESARS PALACE HOLDS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Caesars Palace is holding a 50th anniversary celebration beginning on Sunday, July 3 with a 13½ minute fireworks display at 9 p.m. based on weather directly above the iconic hotel’s newly reimagined Julius Tower. In addition a weekend long block party is planned with the Roman Plaza and Spanish Steps directly in front of Caesars Palace being transformed with live music, signature cocktails, life size games, patriotic decorations, homemade BBQ specials and more from noon to midnight Friday-Sunday, July 1-3.

In addition, Caesars Palace has created a self-guided historical walking tour, three-sided photo displays highlighting milestones across entertainment, dining, sports and shopping, and a photo experience by the bell desk featuring a Roman chariot.

On the anniversary weekend Aug. 5-6 celebrations will include a commemorative cake and champagne toast, a gala for invited guests and VIPs, #IAMCAESAR Sweepstakes, special 50th Anniversary room packages, commemorative merchandise, etc.

POT LIQUOR CHANGES NAME AND ADDS NEW MENU ITEMS

Owners Flip Arbelaez and Doug Bell of Pot Liquor Contemporary American Smokehouse in Town Square next to Crazy Pita are converting the original name to Pot Liquor Smokehouse Barbecue to emphasize they are an authentic southern style barbecue restaurant.

The owners say there are two things that make a barbecue restaurant authentic – the wood to smoke the meats and nicknaming the meat smoker. At Pot Liquor, which opened in September 2014, the hefty smoker is named Big Hank and you smell the aroma of peach, cherry and mesquite woods that are used to smoke beef brisket for 10 to 12 hours.

The menu offers several new items including pulled pork nachos, spare riblets, crab fritters and cheddar grits and veggies. A new combination platter called A Month of Sundays is for large parties, feeding up to eight people.The Happy Hour menu, which is available Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., features a few updates as well with 11 food items for $5 each. Happy Hour cocktail specials include $2 PBR and Shandy pints, 50 percent off all other draft beers, well drinks and house wines for $4, and specialty cocktails for 25 percent off.

Pot Liquor also offers All You Can Eat Ribs special every Monday for $24.99 for one person or $39.99 for two people.

BEER PARK WILL HOST BEER PONG QUALIFYING TOURNAMENT

As the 2016 World Series of Beer Pong approaches July 6-10 at Westgate, Beer Park at Paris will host its own qualifying tournament with 32 teams consisting of two people per team starting at 10 p.m. on Thursday, June 23. Each team will receive a complimentary pitcher of beer and the winning team will receive complimentary registration into the 2016 World Series of Beer Pong. To enter, call 702-444-4500.

ONE RISE & SHINE LOCATION CELEBRATES ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Locally owned and operated Rise & Shine: A Steak & Egg Place is celebrating the first anniversary of its Flamingo location with a month-long menu offering five of the restaurant’s signature breakfast dishes through Friday, July 15. The company’s first location is in Southern Highlands. Breakfast and lunch are served daily 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

BELLAGIO’S MONTHLY CULINARY SERIES SHOWCASES RENOWNED CHEFS

Snack Wagon Takeover is a monthly culinary series at Harvest by Roy Ellamar with favorite chefs. The snack wagon is a beautifully crafted wood cart on wheels that glides through the restaurant, stopping tableside so guests may select exclusive culinary bites from the guest chef’s restaurant.
The 2016 lineup includes: July 13 Le Cirque Executive Chef Wilfried Bergerhausen; July 22 Celebrity Chef Shawn McClain of Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay; Aug. 24 Noodles Executive Chef Patrick Lee; Sept. 14 Todd English’s Olives Executive Chef Brad Skougard; Oct. 12 Lago by Julian Serrano Executive Chef Nico Chessa; Nov. 9 Bellagio Executive Pastry Chef Patrick Lassaque; and Dec.14 Executive Chef Sean Griffin of Jean Georges Steakhouse at Aria.

FOLIES BERGÈRE EXHIBIT IN TWO LOCATIONS RUNS THROUGH JAN. 15

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s (LVCVA) Las Vegas News Bureau in partnership with the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas have assembled a “Les Folies Bergère: Entertaining Las Vegas One Rhinestone at a Time” exhibit that explores the beauty, artistry and extravagance of the Tropicana’s legendary show. Direct from Paris, the show ran nearly 50 years before closing in March 2009.

The exhibit will run through Jan. 15, 2017, at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Paradise Road where it is free and open to the public and also at the Nevada State Museum with admission to the museum.

PAINT-DRINK-DINE SERIES OFFERED AGAIN AT CRAZY PITA

Crazy Pita in Town Square is partnering again with Pinot’s Palette through Sept. 8 to offer the Paint–Drink–Dine summer painting event series with guests learning from local artists while creating a piece of artwork. The cost is $39, which includes painting materials and supplies, along with one appetizer per table and 25 percent of the proceeds being donated to the Josh Stevens Foundation. Also Happy Hour prices are offered at 50 percent off beer and wine.

Reservations are required at Pinot’s Pallette’s website. Paint–Drink–Dine events are twice a month on every other Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. The next dates on the schedule are June 30, July 14 and 28, and Aug. 11.

JULY 4 WEEKEND HAPPENINGS

Reminder, the unforgettable Garth Brooks will headline at the T-Mobile Arena July 2-4.

The free Independence Day celebration at Lake Las Vegas will be on July 3 with free activities beginning at 2 p.m. followed by two simultaneous fireworks shows at 8:40 p.m. and the Henderson Symphony Orchestra performing at dusk.

The two winners of 19th annual qualifying competition held at New York-New York will be competing in the 100th Annual Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, N.Y. Rich LeFevre, a local Henderson, Nev., resident, and Michelle Lesco each earned the title of “Nevada Hot Dog Eating Champion.” During the 10-minute challenge, LeFevre earned top male honors finishing 30 hot dogs while Lesco won the female division eating 28 hot dogs.

Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will celebrate America by hosting a patio party with drink specials like the $19 Fiesta Firework daiquiri layered with strawberry daiquiri, piña colada and blue curacao, live music by Shawn Eifferman at 8 p.m. and fireworks viewing on July 4.

Life Time Athletic Green Valley’s Fourth of July poolside bash will feature a live DJ, game activities, signature cocktails and food from 1 to 10 p.m. with holiday fireworks at 9 p.m. at the adjacent Green Valley Ranch Resort on Monday, July 4.

The 68th Annual Boulder City Damboree Celebration will take place in Boulder City on July 4 starting with a parade at 9 a.m., carnival and entertainment from 10-11 a.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m.

In Mesquite about 90 minutes from Las Vegas, Eureka Casino Resort will celebrate the Fourth of July with Rockets over the Red Mesa on Saturday, July 4. The evening will feature a community vendor village starting at 6 p.m. with a DJ, a live performance by the 32-piece Nevada POPS Orchestra at 8 p.m., and a fireworks display at 9 p.m.

The Deck at Aliante during Fourth of July weekend, July 1-4, will celebrate with a poolside barbecue and drink specials. The Deck will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through the holiday weekend with day-passes available to locals and non-hotel guests for $20.

On the Fourth of July, the gentlemen’s club Crazy Horse III will host its annual “Red, White and Boobs” bash with a weekend all-American drink special, two complimentary Bud Light beer buckets with the purchase of a bottle of Jack Daniels.

PARKING GETS COMPLICATED

We all expected the new paid parking situation at MGM properties to get a bit complicated and it is going to take time for people to adjust and for the kinks to be worked out. An awkward example is if you aren’t staying at an MGM property, you have to pay for parking at each resort.

There are also some subtle changes. For example after all these years, valet in the front drive-up area at Circus Circus has been removed and all valet services are now at the center interior section of the property. Also valet is charging and parking fees are sure to be instituted eventually at many more resorts.

CELEBRITY SHORT ITEMS

The “Steven Tyler...Out On A Limb” tour will bring the legendary front man to the Venetian Theatre on Saturday, July 2 at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $80 to see rock royalty.

Pop icon Britney Spears has added an additional 14 performances to her residency schedule from October 2016-February 2017 at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood. The international superstar recently opened the “2016 Billboard Music Awards,” where she was honored with the Millennium Award.

Multi-platinum selling pop star Kesha will perform her hits at Intrigue Nightclub in Wynn nightclub on Thursday-June 23, Saturday-June 25 and Saturday-July 23. Kesha has had eight consecutive Top 10 hits, including four No.1 singles since 2010.

Celebrities continue to visit Mike Tyson’s show at the MGM Grand in the Brad Garrett Comedy Club. This month NBA stars Julius Randle (LA Lakers), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns) and Victor Oladipo (Orlando Magic) attended “UNDISPUTED TRUTH.”

Two-time GRAMMY nominated saxophonist and flautist, Najee, will appear at Aliante in the Access Showroom on Saturday, June 25 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $32.50.

Philippines native Pops Fernandez will take the stage inside the Silverton’s Veil Pavilion to show how she earned the title of “Concert Queen” on Saturday, June 25 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $34. The next night June 26 will be Future Stars of Wrestling at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $15.

NEWS FLASHES

Neighborhood steakhouse Andiron Steak & Sea in Downtown Summerlin will hold its first White Party, a Hamptons inspired celebration of summer, on Saturday, June 25 from 6-9 p.m. The multi-course dinner with beverage offerings costs $59 and guests are strongly requested to wear white attire.

Through June in honor of National Candy Month, HEXX Chocolate & Confexxions in Paris is offering completely-customizable ice cream nachos made with three scoops of High Road ice cream atop waffle cone “chips” and a choice of toppings for $12.95.

The next Taste & Learn event at Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar will be held Saturday, June 25 from 5-7 p.m. The multi-course dinner will have wine pairings selected by Neal Rosenthal, who only imports wines from Italy that are made in the traditional Italian winemaking manner. Cost is $65.

Las Vegas bid farewell to the Strip’s original high-rise, the Riviera’s Monaco tower, when it was imploded at 2:37 a.m., Tuesday, June 14. The next Rivera implosion will be in August.

Playmates Kennedy Summers, Miss December 2013 and 2014 Playmate of the Year, and Shanice Jordyn, Miss April 2014, will be hosting at Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop at Paris on Saturday, June 25. Summers’ most recent movie is “Muck” and Jordyn is a former Hooters waitress.

Mi Casa Grill Cantina at the Silverton will celebrate National Ceviche Day on June 28 with an unrivaled array of favorites and tasty tapas fresh to order during Happy Hour 4-7 p.m. at the Ceviche Bar.

This summer, B&B Ristorante at The Venetian is tempting guests with a seasonal cocktail Noli’s Flip made with Atlantico rum, egg whites and house-made berry shrub.

Next on the National Atomic Testing Museum’s Distinguished Lecture Series will be “The Day an Asteroid Nuked the Nevada Test Site!” with geoscientist Ben McGee at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, which is Asteroid Day. Recently, scientists have discovered that the site sits at the epicenter of the Alamo Impact.

The Artisan Craft Festival featuring more than 60 local artisans and crafters will be held in the Ponderosa Ballroom at Sam’s Town on Sunday, June 26 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE HOSTS COMMUNITY SHOWCASE

Opportunity Village, often referred to as Las Vegas’ favorite charity, is hosting a Community Showcase at the Magical Forest on West Oakey on Saturday, June 25 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Everyone is invited to learn about the complete array of business lines offered at Opportunity Village, ranging from the OV Cleaning Crew™ to the OV Button Brigade™, and to discover how to help this organization, which serves nearly 3,000 people with intellectual disabilities annually. For entry, individuals are asked to bring a donation for the Opportunity Village Thrift Store, a maximum of five boxes of paper to shred, or a monetary donation.
There will be free attractions in the Magical Forest including Rod’s Mini Golf and Cheyenne’s Enchanted Carousel and food and beverage offerings for sale.

LIFE TIME ATHLETIC SUMMERLIN CELEBRATES FIFTH ANNIVERSARY

Life Time Athletic Summerlin at 10721 W. Charleston Blvd. is hosting events for its five-year anniversary.

The club will hold an “Ignite the Night” group fitness dance party with black lights, glow sticks and rave music, Thursday, June 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. Event is free for members and $30 for non-members.

An open house will follow on Saturday, June 25. Afterwards a poolside party will be held from 5-11 p.m. with appetizers, cocktails, and entertainment, which is complimentary for members, $25 for their guests, and $50 for non-members.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, June 26, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

MICHAEL AND DAVID MORTON PLAN NEW STEAKHOUSE AT HARD ROCK

In early 2017, brothers Michael and David Morton will introduce an entirely new steakhouse concept that will occupy approximately 7,000 square feet with all-new construction in the southwest corner of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The Morton family knows steakhouses. Their late father Arnie Morton founded Morton’s The Steakhouse in 1978 and was also a co-founder of Playboy Clubs. Michael reinvented the steakhouse with the opening of N9NE Steakhouse at the Palms in 2001. David owns multiple restaurant venues in Chicago and their brother Peter built the Hard Rock Hotel.

‘WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE’ INVADES LAS VEGAS

The long-running, popular game show “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” with host Chris Harrison has relocated to Bally’s and visitors and area residents have the chance to be a part of one of television’s most iconic game shows. Since the show’s debut in syndication in 2002, contestants have won nearly $95 million.

“Millionaire” is currently looking for outstanding contestants and enthusiastic audience members for the upcoming season, which premieres in national syndication on Sept. 12. Open auditions will take place at Bally’s from 2-7 p.m. on the following dates: July 7-9, 11-15, 18-22, and 25-29.

Live studio tapings will be held July 15 through Sept. 1. In addition, “Millionaire” is also looking for energetic audience members. Members of the studio audience must be at least 18 years old. Tickets are free and can be requested from the show’s website.

DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN® WILL HAVE NEVADA’S FIRST DAVE & BUSTER’S

Nevada’s first Dave & Buster’s will open to the public on Monday, Aug. 8 in Downtown Summerlin. The 33,000-square-foot venue will be located across from Regal Cinema 5.

Dallas, Texas, headquartered Dave & Buster’s operates 82 large-venue, high-volume restaurant/entertainment complexes throughout North America. Venues offer upscale cuisine, innovative cocktails and games, sporting events viewing, and embrace corporate and group events.

TIM MCGRAW WILL RETURN TO MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA

Tim McGraw, three-time Grammy Award-winning musician and the most played country artist since his debut in 1992, will appear at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Dec. 10 at 9 p.m., which will be during the 2016 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo running Dec. 1-10. McGraw has sold more than 40 million records worldwide and dominated the charts with 36 No. 1 singles. Tickets range from $79.50 to $130.

CINDY WILLIAMS WILL JOIN ‘MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL®’ THIS SUMMER

Cindy Williams, best known for her role as Shirley Feeney in the comedy series “Laverne & Shirley,” will join “Menopause The Musical®” at Harrah’s as a guest star this summer from July 7-Aug. 28. The longest-running scripted musical in Las Vegas history has played 4,200 performances and just celebrated 10 years here.

While Williams is making her Las Vegas debut, this run marks the third time she will perform in “Menopause The Musical®,” having previously appeared in the Tampa, Fla., and Laguna Beach, Calif., productions. The actress will play the role of the fifth girlfriend, joining current cast members. After each performance, Williams will greet fans and sign copies of her memoir, “Shirley, I Jest!”

Performances are Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. each Saturday and Monday. Tickets are $49.99, $59.99 and $74.50.

NEW RESTAURANTS PLANNED AT THE HUGHES® CENTER CAMPUS

A new retail development is underway at the entry of The Hughes® Center campus on Flamingo and Paradise Road. The new 14,160-square-foot building, which will anchor The Hughes Center’s Restaurant Row, will feature a modern design that includes an all glass tower and seven tenant spaces ranging from approximately 1,300 to just over 4,000 square feet.

Two committed tenants representing 60 percent of the new development will be Bandito Latin Kitchen & Cantina, a chef-driven, high energy Mexican restaurant, and H20 Sushi & Izakaya, a hip Japanese restaurant serving distinct cuisine.

Bandito will be a brand new restaurant concept from local industry veteran Kent Harman and acclaimed Las Vegas Chef Mike Minor, formerly with Border Grill. The eatery will specialize in scratch-made dishes featuring Minor’s creative take on Latin and Mexican dishes.

The Hughes Center location will be the first H20 Sushi & Izakaya restaurant in Southern Nevada. The restaurant, featuring traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern, exotic touch, has several locations in California and is one of several brands operated by restaurant entrepreneur, Jae Chang, and his company JC Holdings Group, LLC.

FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE HAS NEW VIVA VISION SHOW

Fremont Street Experience and Tiësto officially premiered the newest Viva Vision show, “Tiësto - A Town Called Paradise,” during EDC Weekend. The new light and sound show is built around Vegas DJ Tiësto’s music and 2014 album, “A Town Called Paradise,” and features three artist-selected songS – “Secrets,” “Red Lights” and “Wasted.”

MONORAIL STATIONS NOW HAVE MOBILEQUBES CHARGING DEVICES

There are new MobileQube charging kiosks at all seven Las Vegas Monorail stations and also at the Flamingo and The LINQ to provide a convenient solution for a drained phone battery. MobileQubes is a network of fully automated, self-service kiosks that allow customers to rent their device type (Apple, Android or Blackberry) and return compact, battery “Qubes” at any of their kiosks. The cost to rent a fully-charged Qube is $4.99 for a 24-hour period.

BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS MAKES TOUR STOP AT THE SILVERTON

The Silverton is presenting Blood, Sweat & Tears in the Veil Pavilion on Saturday, July 30 at 8 p.m. The American jazz-rock band’s current members include Bo Bice of American Idol fame. This band from New York has secured three Grammys and 10 nominations as well as a world tour with incredible hits such as “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” “Spinning Wheel,” and “And When I Die.” Tickets start at $29.

TRACE ADKINS BRINGS HIS CHART-TOPPING HITS TO THE ORLEANS

Country music star Trace Adkins will bring his timeless hits and trademark baritone vocals to The Orleans Showroom July 30 and 31 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $69.95.

Adkins moved to Nashville in the early 90s and was quickly signed to Capitol Records. With his debut album “Dreamin’ Out Loud” in 1996, he was awarded Top New Male Vocalist by the Academy of Country Music. In addition to his success in the world of country music, Adkins raised more than $1.5 million for the American Red Cross as the winner of NBC’s “All-Star Celebrity Apprentice” in 2013. He is also a spokesperson for United Service Organizations (USO) and has performed on 10 tours with the organization.

TOMMY WIND’S FAMILY MAGIC SHOW WINS 2016 MERLIN AWARD

Magician Tommy Wind, the 26-year-old with his own namesake theatre on the Strip, has won the coveted Merlin Award for “Best Family Friendly Magic Show in the World.” Tony Hassini, president and founder of the International Magicians Society, presented the award to Wind, who has been a regular on the “Masters of Illusion” TV series on the CW network.

Wind, the youngest performing magician on the Strip, performs his family-friendly magic show with his father Tommy Riccardo, mother DJ M-O-M Arlene and wife magician assistant Stacy, nightly at 6 p.m. The family moved to Las Vegas six years ago and Wind’s grandfather did magic in Italy in 1947 when he came to New York.

‘ARRIVAL FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA’ RETURNS TO SUNCOAST

“Arrival From Sweden: The Music of ABBA” will bring the famous group’s pop songs to the Suncoast Showroom July 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $24.

ABBA first hit the U.S. and U.K. charts with their #1 1974 hit “Waterloo.” Tribute band Arrival From Sweden was founded by Vicky Zetterberg in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1995 and has spent the last two decades performing around the world. Arrival From Sweden is the only ABBA tribute band working with musicians who toured with the original members in the ‘70s, and is also the only tribute to receive an unreleased ABBA song directly from the original artists. In addition, Arrival From Sweden owns the exclusive rights to duplicate ABBA’s original outfits.

NEW GROCERY STORE OPENS AT LAKE LAS VEGAS

Seasons Market just opened in MonteLago Village at Lake Las Vegas featuring traditional and organic items, including many award-winning products and some exclusive to Lake Las Vegas from Full Circle and other local and regional growers and companies. The store also has daily product and wine tastings and dry cleaning and grocery delivery services.

COMEDY STAR SOMMORE RETURNS TO THE SUNCOAST SHOWROOM

Sommore, who began her career in 1994 as the first woman to host BET’s “Comic View,” will bring her side-splitting comedy back to the Suncoast Showroom July 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. In 1995, she was the recipient of the Richard Pryor Award for Comic of the Year. Sommore has TV and film credits, has competed on the winning team during season six of “Celebrity Fit Club,” and has earned critical acclaim for her stand-up comedy specials “The Queen Stands Alone,” “Chandelier Status” and “The Reign Continues.” Tickets are available from $35.

NIGHT SWIMS RETURN TO THE TANK AT GOLDEN NUGGET

Night Swim at the Golden Nugget returns this summer with free public events at The Tank pool. Events include: Blend Night Swim, an LGBT pool party, on July 7, Aug. 11 and Sept. 5; Jurassic Night Swim July 15; Family Movie Night: Jurassic Park July 16; Olympic Night Swim Aug. 5; Family Movie Night: Pixels Aug. 19; and four Night Swim parties on Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 16 and 30. Most all Night Swim events run 7 p.m. to midnight and are free and open to the public.

THE MOB MUSEUM TO HOST GANGSTER MOVIE SERIES IN JULY

The Mob Museum will again host a Summer Movie Series on four consecutive Fridays in July at 6:45 p.m. in the historic courtroom. Each screening will be preceded by a short presentation providing historical context as well as the real stories behind the film. Movies will include: “Bugsy” – July 8; “The Untouchables” – July 15; “The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” – July 22; and “Hoffa” – July 29. Each movie is free with museum admission and free for museum members.

Refreshments include a full bar and snacks available for purchase. Attendees may also opt for dinner-and-a-movie night by purchasing The Made Experience package offered in partnership with Triple George Grill located just steps away from the museum. The $89 package includes a three-course dinner, private booth, Triple George Grill cocktail shaker and a ticket to the museum.

CROSSROADS RESTAURANT OFFERS SPECIAL EVENTS AND NEW MENUS

Crossroads Restaurant at House of Blues in Mandalay Bay is offering new menus this summer with “No Regrets” Brunch and extended Happy Hour. Some of the events will include: Saturday Morning Cartoons July 16; Late Night Dine-In Movie July 15 midnight-3 a.m.; Strip Searched Comedy July 18; National Ice Cream Day July 17 with a free scoop; and more. In July, kids under age 13 can eat breakfast and lunch for free 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday with the purchase of a full-priced entrée.

BRAVO! CUCINA ITALIANA CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

BRAVO! Cucina Italiana in Henderson at the Galleria mall will celebrate its first anniversary on Thursday, July 7 with a special “BRAVO! Cucina Italiana Day.” Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen will take part in a festive pizza toss and help deliver a “Pizza BRAVO!” lunch donation to Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada Donald W. Reynolds Clubhouse.

Folks interested in helping BRAVO! celebrate can dine in on July 7 for a complimentary dessert and enjoy their own Pizza BRAVO!, which is one of the new menu items. Some other new items include Linguine Carbonara, Braised Pork Marsala and Spicy Shrimp and Clam Linguine.

JULY FOURTH WEEKEND FESTIVITIES

Correction: Sorry for the misinformation last week. There won’t be fireworks at Green Valley Ranch this year on July 4. As it turns out Green Valley Ranch and Red Rock Resort aren’t having fireworks displays this Fourth of July. Instead, the company will be putting on a fireworks spectacular on July 1 at Palace Station to celebrate Station Casinos’ 40th Birthday.

More than 35,000 people are expected to attend the 22nd annual Summerlin Council Patriotic Parade from 9 to 11 a.m. This is Southern Nevada’s largest Fourth of July parade with more than 2,500 people participating, more than 70 entries, and even 25 giant inflatables.

The theme for First Friday on July 1 from 5 to 11 p.m. downtown will be “Deliverance.” Featured artists will be Anna Duerden, DeAndre Summlin and Newsence.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is hosting an exclusive Garth Brooks Songwriters Showcase inside Rose. Rabbit. Lie. again on July 2 at 2:30 p.m. featuring performances by songwriters Pat Alger, Tony Arata and Kent Blazy. Tickets are $75.

RAPID NEWS TIPS

The rooftop Pool at the Plaza after a multimillion dollar renovation will open to the public on July 2; more information next week.

Magician Criss Angel opened his new production “Mindfreak Live!” at the Luxor. It replaced “Believe,” which he closed April 17 after seven years and 3,000 performances.

Forgot to mention that The Improv at Harrah’s closed last month after anchoring the second-floor showroom since 1995 when it moved over from the Riviera. The Improv is a comedy-club brand started by Budd Friedman back in 1963. This show closure has allowed “Menopause” to move its show time from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and “X Country” to go from 10:30 to 10 p.m.

Last week, Noodle Co. & Sushi Bar at the Monte Carlo kicked off its 20-year anniversary celebration and launched a special $20 three-course anniversary menu running now through July 31. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from every Hong Kong chow mein sold will benefit the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth.

The Golden Nugget downtown is celebrating the return of Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week” with a week-long splash of events through July 3 including shark-inspired menus, pool shark fun at The Tank, and an ongoing Shark Tank Tour at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays for $40.

The Neon Museum downtown will offer hot yoga in its outdoor Neon Boneyard this summer for the first time. Taught by Certified Instructor Eileen Lorraine, the one-hour sessions will take place at 5:30 p.m. on five Wednesdays: July 6 and 20, and Aug. 3, 17 and 31. The 60-minute class is for everyone from beginners to advanced yogis and will consist of a flowing vinyasa session set to vintage Las Vegas-inspired beats. Participants should bring plenty of water and their own yoga mat, towel and equipment they require. Cost is $18 and $13 for museum members, call 702-387-6366.

There’s also yoga at Sunset Station’s outdoor pool area, 8 a.m. every Saturday. Attendance is free for all Boarding Pass members, but donations are welcome. Classes are taught by Gemma, and participants should bring their yoga mats and water.

Honey Salt will welcome Chef Roy Villacrusis, Consulting Sushi Chef at Andiron Steak & Sea, for a Japanese-inspired, four-course dinner on June 30. This communal dining experience is $49 with an optional two-course beverage pairing for an additional $19.

Adrianne Haslet, a Boston Marathon bombing survivor, will be the keynote speaker at the 10th annual Women’s Leadership Conference Aug. 8 and 9 at the MGM Grand. Registration for the two-day conference open to men and women is $450.

Impersonator Rich Little, who is headlining at the Laugh Factory in the Tropicana, penned his first book “Little By Little: People I Have Known and Been” and self-published via Dog Ear Publishing. Rather than a biography, the book is about funny things that happened to him and meeting people he impersonated.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin, will keep the tequila flowing with more than 35 brands of shot specials in honor of National Tequila Day, Sunday, July 24.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, July 3, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

DRYBAR OPENS LAS VEGAS FLAGSHIP SHOP

Drybar opened its 63rd location last Friday in the Miracle Mile Shops just off the Strip inside the North Entrance. Drybar’s concept “No cuts. No color. Just blowouts” has captured loyal clients nationwide. The 2,797-square-foot Las Vegas shop is the brand’s largest footprint to date with 20 styling chairs and signature design including custom Italian chairs, tufted fabric walls, marble bars with built-in phone docking stations, and flat screens featuring favorite chick flicks. However, exclusive for Las Vegas’ flagship shop are the full cocktail bar, built-in photo booth, live DJ, and event manager to host and plan parties.

Drybar provides a wash and professional blowout at a flat price regardless of hair length or thickness. The idea was a natural one for founder Alli Webb and came from a lifetime of frustration overpaying for blowouts at traditional salons. Webb’s first book, “The Drybar Guide To Good Hair For All,” will be published in October 2016 by Abrams Publishing. Drybar Las Vegas is open 8 a.m.-11 p.m. daily and until midnight on Saturday.

THE VENETIAN STARTS GONDOLA UNIVERSITY FOR VISITORS

Guests now have the opportunity to pilot a gondola at The Venetian through the resort’s new Gondola University. The new program, limited to nine participants per day, begins with a primer on the history of Venice followed by the “ins and outs” of piloting a gondola, “Rowing 101,” and the hands-on experience actually rowing a vessel. The experience ends with an official Sash and Scarf Ceremony, modeled after the actual ritual used by The Venetian for new gondoliers after their training. Participants also receive a gondola hat and t-shirt, a souvenir photo and a degree certificate from Gondola University.

Here are a couple fun gondola facts at The Venetian: there is an indoor ride and outdoor ride with 14 gondolas used between the two canals; each gondolier knows about a dozen songs to serenade their guests and make about 20 rotations per sift; and more than 500,000 visitors annually ride the gondolas at The Venetian.

Gondola University is in session daily between 8 and 10 a.m. Enrollment begins 48-72 hours in advance of class and costs $199 plus tax. Students must be 13 years of age or older, call 702-607-3982.

STRATOSPHERE HOSTS ‘SHARKNADO’ MOVIE PREMIERE AND AFTER PARTY

On Sunday, July 31, the Stratosphere will host the official premiere for Syfy’s “Sharknado: The 4th Awakens,” which was partly filmed at the property. Cast members confirmed to attend the private viewing party and red carpet include shark-fighting hero Ian Ziering, Tara Reid, Gary Busey, Cheryl Tiegs, Ryan Newman and more. In “Sharknado” tradition, the film has surprise celebrity cameos and some of them may attend. Premiere and after-party guest stars are subject to change.

Following the star-studded movie premiere and red carpet, the cast will attend the after-party, “Cast Party With a Cause,” benefitting The Animal Foundation, which will be open to fans to take photos and view the new film at the hotel’s newly-remodeled Elation Pool. Food and beverages will be for sale. Tickets to the poolside bash from 8–11 p.m. are $15 at the hotel’s website.

ETHEL M® CHOCOLATES UNDERGOES $2 MILLION FACTORY REDESIGN

Ethel M® Chocolates in Henderson is starting a complete redesign of its premium chocolate factory store in celebration of its 35th anniversary this year. The project will fully refresh the factory store experience with an updated look, new interactive elements, expanded retail space and additions to their café menu. During the remodel, visitors can still visit the factory’s air-conditioned summer pop-up store opening July 5. It will be complete with a Chocolate Tasting Room.

The new store experience opening this fall will highlight colors and materials that represent the factory’s original copper kettles and signature Botanical Cactus Garden. All-new interactive features will be introduced including an upgraded Chocolate Tasting Room overlooking the cactus garden and an added demonstration area. The self-guided viewing aisle will receive new upgrades including digital displays and shadow boxes containing original artifacts. The existing café will also be remodeled and offer an extended menu to include coffee, specialty-drinks and light bites.

THE POOL AT THE PLAZA IS NOW OPEN

After a multi-million dollar renovation adding brand new resort-style furnishings, a wet deck, 12-person hot tub, refurbished outdoor recreation space and a food truck that was hosted up by a crane, the rooftop Pool at the Plaza is open. The entire renovated pool deck encompasses approximately 70,000 square feet, making it one of the largest downtown.

For active folks, there are adjacent tennis and basketball courts and dedicated Pickleball courts for the fast growing sport. At one end is a stage for the Plaza to offer a lineup of live entertainment to include weekend DJs, concerts and special events.

Admission to the pool is free for hotel guests and local residents of all ages. Reservations of the tennis, basketball and Pickleball courts and all necessary equipment are available for a nominal fee. The Pool at the Plaza is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer with extended hours for special events.

YOU TOO CAN BE A SPY OR AT LEAST PROTECT YOURSELF

The media had an opportunity to see about an hour presentation by ex-CIA agent Jason Hanson, who will begin giving his two-day Spy Escape & Evasion seminar and training session in the Stratosphere Theater Aug. 17-18 and 19-20.

Hanson is extremely likable and knowledgeable. His life-saving information is really powerful and the audience is captivated. In less than an hour we learned how to escape rope, duct tape, zip ties and a little about being a human lie detector. What we experienced was the tip of the iceberg of safety tips. After almost a decade in the CIA, Hanson brings real-world spy safety experience and techniques direct to participants, teaching critical skills and valuable information that 99 percent of Americans will never know or have access to learn, until now. The ticket price is steep at $1,499.95 per person but it would be worthwhile; visit www.TicketBAT.com.

In addition, participants can also take part in a special VIP dinner and meet and greet with Hanson at Las Vegas’ El Dorado Cantina for $250.

‘XAVIER MORTIMER'S MAGICAL DREAM’ IS OPEN AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

French export Xavier Mortimer launched his own show “Xavier Mortimer’s Magical Dream” in the Sin City Theater at Planet Hollywood. His 70-minute show is intimate and moves along with a comfortable flow that holds your interest. Unlike most magic shows going from unrelated trick to trick, this show has more of a story without the sometimes awkward build up to each “ta-da” illusion.

Mortimer is the first Cirque du Soleil performer to go off and start his own show on the Strip. He was in “Michael Jackson ONE,” which closed recently. Tickets for the 7 p.m. shows are $49 for general admission and $69 for VIP. Note that some seats way off to the side won’t work because you’ll miss some of the important visuals especially the mirror reflections.

MISS TEEN USA® COMPETITION WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE VENETIAN

The 2016 Miss Teen USA® Competition will stream live from The Venetian® on Saturday, July 30 and the Miss Teen USA® Preliminary Show will be held on Friday, July 29. The big news is the competition is doing away with the swimsuits and the ladies will be judged sporting athletic wear instead.

Tickets are on sale for the reception on Wednesday night at the Azure Pool at 7:30 for $55 for adults and $25 for children. The 8 p.m. preliminary show tickets are $80.85 and $91.75. Tickets for the final competition at 7 p.m. are $102.65 and $124.45.

CHUMLEE FROM ‘PAWN STARS’ HOSTS FAN LUNCHES TO BENEFIT CHARITIES

Every Thursday, Chumlee from HISTORY’s “Pawn Stars” is hosting a meet and greet at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop where he signs autographs, takes photos and meets fans. While entrance into this event is free, Gold & Silver Pawn is accepting donations for a variety of their favorite charities throughout the summer.

The first five people making $100 or more donation to the charity of the week will each be treated with one guest to a private lunch event with Chumlee the next day, which is Friday.

In addition, every day during the summer between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. a “Pawn Star” will be in the shop to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take photos.

GOLDEN NUGGET ANNOUNCES STARS FOR NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

The Golden Nugget will host an all-star lineup of country music performers during the National Finals Rodeo. The lineup includes: Terri Clark Dec.1; Tanya Tucker Dec.4; Brenda Lee Dec. 5; Charlie Daniels Band Dec. 6; Wynonna & The Big Noise Dec. 8; and Trace Adkins Dec. 9. All concerts will be held in The Grand Event Center following the rodeo at 10 p.m. each night. Tickets are now on sale starting at $29.

GOSPEL MUSIC FAVORITES WILL PERFORM AT ORLEANS ARENA

The “Festival of Praise” Tour will bring several of the biggest names in gospel music together for a performance at the Orleans Arena on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. The star-studded lineup includes Grammy Award-winning artists Fred Hammond, Israel Houghton, Regina Belle and Karen Clark Sheard, as well as industry favorites Hezekiah Walker and Casey J. Comedian “Earthquake” will serve as host. Tickets start at $35.

MINUS5 BARS HOLD FOOTBALL-THEMED SCAVENGER HUNT

Minus5 Ice Bar is celebrating football season early with a classic scavenger hunt featuring seven NFL team-inspired logos at both The Shoppes at Mandalay Place and Monte Carlo locations. Guests participating in the ice bar’s frozen game and finding all seven logos will be treated to a complimentary house shot out of the Lombardi-style trophy ice luge.

SHORT ENTERTAINMENT BLURBS

Media recently attended an early-on dance rehearsal of “Cherry Boom Boom,” which will open at the Tropicana on Sept. 8. Nine of the 12 featured dancers are from Los Angeles and three from Las Vegas. All were handpicked for their beauty and ability. The team producing the show collectively has an endless list of major league credits. The show is promising to be bold and bawdy with heart-pounding music.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame duo and Harrah’s Las Vegas headliners, The Righteous Brothers – Bill Medley and Bucky Heard will share the stage with the cast of “Million Dollar Quartet” for a one-night-only encore performance during the show’s finale in Harrah’s Showroom on Thursday, July 7, at 8 p.m.

The critically-acclaimed no holds barred, one-man show “Mike Tyson UNDISPUTED TRUTH – Live On Stage” starring the fighter has been extended at Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club inside the MGM Grand Sept. 8-Oct. 23 with 10 p.m. knockout performances.

“The Vegas Voice” publication is joining the World Center of Broadcast Media (WCOBM) Network beginning with live-streaming at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 6. Hour-long “Watching The Vegas Voice” will include celebrity interviews and be hosted by comic impressionist and columnist Rich Natole.

Singer Pia Zadora is taking a break from her residency at “Pia’s Place” inside Piero’s Italian Cuisine this summer until Friday, Aug. 26 to travel and enjoy family time.

The Foundation Room at the House of Blues will feature a special DJ set by The Black Eyed Peas member Taboo on Friday, July 8. Supermodel Tyson Beckford will glam it up and host Supermodel Saturday, a night of music and fashion, on Saturday, July 23. Events start at 10 p.m.

Alt rockers Soul Asylum will perform at The Yard inside Topgolf® on Friday, July 22 at 9 p.m. Soul Asylum has been inspiring passion in music since 1981, when the band, initially known as Loud Fast Rules, was formed in Minneapolis. Tickets start at $20.

Stripper 101 where you can learn the basics of pole and lap dancing is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this month at the V Theater in the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood.

Current UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion Miesha “Cupcake” Tate will host her “UFC 200 After Party” in the Sapphire Showroom on Saturday, July 9 following her match with Amanda Nunes, which will be shown live at Sapphire Gentlemen’s Club.

In its continued effort to support the local community, Hard Rock is again teaming up with local nonprofits for the return of Music for a Mission beginning July 8 with three cabanas being donated to support selected charities. The second philanthropic initiative will take place during select performances at the Friday Night Live at the Pool concert series.

RICHARD CHEESE-LOUNGE AGAINST THE MACHINE VISIT GOLDEN NUGGET

Las Vegas lounge YouTube sensation Richard Cheese has earned a reputation as “Frank Sinatra singing Radiohead.” With the impressive ability to turn current pop, rock, and rap hits into classic pop standards, Cheese and his band, Lounge Against The Machine, will perform in The Gordie Brown Showroom at the Golden Nugget on July 9 and 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $19.

DINING TIDBITS

BRAVO! Cucina Italian at the Galleria mall is offering a “Savory Summer Nights” special featuring a two-course and three-course prix fix menu for $16 and $20 through Aug. 14 offering choice of soup or salad, entrée and the added dessert option.

Every Monday Border Grill in The Forum Shops is now offering a new all-day Monday Madness fiesta serving up all-you-can-eat fresh street tacos for $20 and pitchers of margaritas for $20.

Both BRIO Tuscan Grilles at Tivoli Village and Town brought back the popular summer special, “The Art of Grilling,” featuring a three-course prix fixe menu starting at $27.95 through Aug. 28.

Honey Salt at 1031 S. Rampart Blvd. will hold its next Farm Table dinner spotlighting a Taste of Spain on Tuesday, July 12 at 6:30 p.m. The four-course dinner created by Chef Robert is $54 with an optional wine pairing an additional $25.

Downtown Grand is now embracing the local craft beer scene’s renaissance by pouring Joseph James Brewery’s Hop Box Imperial IPA and I’m out Imperial Stout on the casino floor. Players can now enjoy complimentary 16-ounce pours of these local brews and other craft-style macro-brews while playing or purchase the beer at the Furnace Bar.

Beer Park, the open-air rooftop bar and grill at Paris will celebrate National Hot Dog Day on Saturday, July 23. Patrons who purchase a Budweiser Signature draft beer will receive a complimentary hot dog.

Nathan’s Famous hot dogs at Aliante will offer a hot dog special for National Hot Dog Day. Guests who purchase any combination meal of a hot dog, side and drink at Nathan’s will receive an additional hot dog free of charge exclusively for the holiday.

The two Shake Shack locations, Downtown Summerlin and New York-New York, have two new summertime beverages: Raspberry Limeade and the cool Shack Shandy, a blend of ShackMeister® Ale and Shack-made Lemonade.

Adult dessert brand, Momenti Spirited Ice Creams has expanded into the retail market by offering its premium alcohol-infused ice creams and sorbets directly to consumers for purchase at Khoury’s Fine Wine & Spirits at 9915 S. Eastern Avenue.

STEVE DIET GOEDDE EXHIBITS ‘VARIATIONS’ AT SIN CITY GALLERY

Sin City Gallery downtown will present Los Angeles-artist Steve Diet Goedde’s new show “Variations,” which introduces new photographic directions for the photographer who has been shooting his trademark erotic style for more than 25 years. Goedde will be present for an artist talk on Thursday, July 7 and the exhibition will run through July 24.

His most noted new direction is his recent explorations with Polaroid emulsion transfers. Each photograph is a singular piece of art made from a “destroyed” Polaroid. He is also collaborating with sculptor Colin Christian. Preview copies of Goedde’s new book, “ARRANGEMENTS: Volume III” (Century Guild) will be on hand to peruse. It’s the first volume of a three-part series.

MIRACLE MILE SHOPS HELP DRESS FOR SUCCESS IN JULY

This July, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood is collecting fountain donations for Dress for Success Southern Nevada. In addition, Dress for Success will host its Power Walk at Miracle Mile Shops on Saturday, July 16. Participants will walk “One Mile in Style” to bring awareness to the organization’s mission.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, July 10, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

IKE GAMING, INC. WILL OPEN EUREKA! AT FREMONT EAST

Eureka! will be a new all-American dining destination by IKE Gaming opening in the Fremont East Entertainment District in mid-2017. The 177-seat restaurant will feature the best locally sourced ingredients, craft beers, small batch whiskeys, classic cocktails and rock n’ roll at the corner of East Fremont and 6th Street. Eureka! will have an atmosphere with handpicked music, televised sports and weekly events like “Steal the Glass” and live music.

With the opening of Eureka!, Emergency Arts will close The Beat Coffeehouse and Records and the Emergency Arts space will be condensed on the second floor.

‘PUPPET UP! – UNCENSORED’ WILL OPEN AT THE SANDS SHOWROOM

“Puppet Up! - Uncensored” will debut in its new home inside The Sands Showroom at The Venetian® on July 21. The show has unveiled its lineup of expert puppeteers ready to bring their irreverent and unpredictable style of comedy to the Las Vegas Strip.

The revolving cast of six world-class puppeteers, all hand selected by Brian Henson, are tasked with bringing to life more than 60 unruly puppets nightly, playing out outrageous scripted scenes and improv. The puppeteers are experts in the art of comedy and have also mastered the one-of-kind technique and creativity that is a Henson trademark.

The first set of puppeteers will include: Grant Baciocco - creator and host of the Henson.com Podcast; Tyler Bunch - actor/puppeteer who recently appeared in “Finding Joy;” Peggy Etra - “Puppet Up!” performer for the last seven years; Ted Michaels - who recently starred in the acclaimed web series, “The Guild;” Michael Oosterom – who was part of the national tour of Steve Martin’s “Picasso at the Lapin Agile;” and Colleen Smith creator and co-host of a podcast called “My First Time.”

Henson Alternative is The Jim Henson Company’s label for content created specifically and exclusively for adult audiences. Today, Henson Alternative credits include: “No, You Shut Up!,” currently airing on Fusion; “Neil’s Puppet Dreams” (Nerdist); “Tinseltown” (Logo); “Puppet Up! – Uncensored” - a live puppet improvisational show; and the upcoming feature film “Happytime Murders” in development with STX Entertainment.

NEW BAR OPENS AT CALIFORNIA HOTEL

Holo Holo – The Happy Bar – is now open at the California Hotel downtown as part of the resort’s multi-million dollar redesign and renovation. Holo Holo was conceived from a Hawaiian term meaning to get out and about for some fun and leisure. The bar features a diverse menu of craft beers, a full bar and a monthly special.

On the remodel the valet and porte-cochere, guest registration, casino floor and more are done. Still ahead is a full redesign and upgrade of the hotel’s west tower, plus a casino floor sports lounge coming later this year.

ROBBY KRIEGER OF THE DOORS WILL PERFORM FREE CONCERT

Fremont Street Experience’s Rock of Vegas concert series will feature Robby Krieger of The Doors, Saturday, July 23 at 9 p.m. on the 1st Street Stage. Krieger gained fame quickly after joining The Doors and went on to write hit songs for the band including “Love Her Madly” and “L.A. Woman.”

Born in Los Angeles, Krieger played in bands where he eventually met drummer John Densmore. The two of them were joined by keyboardist Ray Manzarek and poet/singer Jim Morrison, resulting in the birth of The Doors. The Doors signed with Elektra Records and issued their debut album, “The Doors,” in 1967. The album spawned the monster hit “Light My Fire,” a tune penned entirely by Krieger.

SUMMER ART INSTALLATION AT THE PALAZZO IS FLORAL

The summer display in the Waterfall Atrium and Gardens at The Palazzo® is transporting guests to the gardens of Italy through Sept. 7. The installation features two nine-feet tall figures wearing elaborate floral dresses artfully constructed from recycled paper products. The models first introduced last summer became Instagram sensations and have been revised with new rose designs inspired by The Venetian Rose and The Palazzo Rose, both official namesake varieties of the Las Vegas resorts.

The featured dresses and hats were influenced by European wedding gowns and millinery. The 568 unique oversized roses featured in the dresses took six artists three months to create. Each of the 14,768 petals that make up the roses was hand-cut, painted, and sealed. More than 5,000 orchids, dusty miller, ligustrum, red and orange chrysanthemums, as well as boxwood and olive trees are featured throughout the display.

‘THE NAUGHTY SHOW’ WILL OPEN AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

Comedian Sam Tripoli will open “The Naughty Show” at The Sin City Theatre at Planet Hollywood on Friday, July 15. The show will run on Friday and Saturday nights at 11 p.m. following the “Crazy Girls” 9 p.m. performance.

“The Naughty Show” is an 80-minute no-holds barred comedy and variety showcase featuring creator and host Sam Tripoli, the sharp-tongued master of insults. Tripoli will appear with a nightly lineup of big-name and rising-star comics plus an array of other variety acts. “The Naughty Show” was developed at The World Famous Comedy Store in Hollywood, Calif., where it has grown to cult status over the past 10 years.

CHANGES ON FREMONT STREET

This reporter worked at one time for the trio of properties Topless Girls of Glitter Gulch gentlemen’s club, Mermaid’s Casino with deep fried Twinkies and Oreos and La Bayou Casino that closed this month on Fremont Street when they were Herb Pastor’s places Golden Goose, Sassy Sally’s and Coin Castle respectfully. Brothers Derek and Greg Stevens, who own the D and the former Las Vegas Club, will be creating new project(s). It’s an exciting time for downtown!

EDGE STEAKHOUSE AT WESTGATE CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

Edge Steakhouse at Westgate is celebrating year one with an exclusive five-course dinner and wine pairing with Chef de Cuisine Steve Young for $125 on Thursday, July 28 from 6-8:30 p.m.; call 702-732-5775. Edge Steakhouse was the recipient of OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award.

In addition, Edge Steakhouse is also offering a special three-course anniversary menu from Thursday, July 28 to Saturday, July 30 for $85. Seating begins at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

RONNIE FOSTER TRIO RECORD LIVE SMITH CENTER PERFORMANCE

The Ronnie Foster Trio will appear in Cabaret Jazz at The Smith Center on Sunday, July 24 at 2 and 6 p.m. and be recording an upcoming album, “The Reboot Project Live at The Smith Center.” Tickets are $20-$35.

A Grammy nominated artist, composer and producer, and one of the true legends of the Hammond Organ, Foster has a new group featuring guitarist Jake Langley, formerly with jazz organist Joey DeFrancesco, and Las Vegas drummer Jess Gopen. Foster has performed as a sideman with a wide range of musicians including with guitarist George Benson for 15 years.

BIG BAND JAZZ CONCERT FEATURES SNL BAND’S STEVE TURRE

Steve Turre, a “Saturday Night Live” band member since 1984, will appear with the 18-member Michael Evans Big Band featuring Sandy Wyatt of “Hitzville the Show” on vocals on Saturday, July 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. at UNLV’s Artemus Ham Hall.

Turre is a leading jazz innovator, trombonist and seashell musician, consistently winning readers’ and critics’ polls for Best Trombone and Best Miscellaneous Instrumentalist. Tickets are $22.

EZEQUIEL PEÑA WILL PERFORM AT PRIMM VALLEY RESORT

Mexican charro Ezequiel Peña will appear in concert on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nev., located 25 minutes south of Las Vegas on Interstate 15. Tickets start at $25.

Peña, who began his career at age 12, has been in the music industry for 30 years and is now recognized as one of the leaders in both mariachi and banda. Peña was nominated for a Grammy in 2007 for Best Banda Album for “A Mucha Honra” and has been ranked highly on the Latin and regional Mexican Billboard charts since 1994.

STATION CASINOS HAVE BOWLING AND MOVIE DEALS THIS SUMMER

Station Casinos’ bowling lanes and movie theaters are offering some cool special deals this summer.

For bowling, Texas Station will have $1 bowling games every Thursday in August from 7:30 a.m.-midnight, shoe rental not included. Snack bar will have $1 hot dogs and nachos starting at 11 a.m. Monday-Friday a game is $1 from 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and $1.50 on Saturday and Sunday.

Santa Fe Station is having $2 Tuesdays featuring $2 bowling games, $2 shoes and $2 food and beverage specials at the Keglers Bar & Grill from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. On Fridays, Santa Fe Lanes hosts Cosmic Happy Hour from 5-7 p.m. with $3 games.

Red Rock Lanes offers After Dark Specials Sunday through Thursday from 9-11 p.m. with $2 bowling games and from 11 p.m. to closing $1.50 per person, with $2 domestic draft beer and $3 well drinks.

Every Wednesday from 1-3 p.m., the Red Rock Lanes are hosting a summer movie camp. For $15 guests have rental shoes, two hours of bowling, hot dog, chips, soda and the movie of the week.

For $1, Texas Station’s Regal Cinemas has a summer series Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. through Aug. 10 with two G or PG rated movies.

ENTERTAINMENT TIPS

Reminder, “Clint Holmes: Between The Lines” will debut in the newly redesigned Palazzo Theatre on July 16.

The Golden Nugget continues its 52 Fridays Concert Series in the Gordie Brown Showroom. The Happy Together Tour on July 15 will feature hit makers: The Turtles with Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night, Gary Puckett & the Union Gap, The Cowsills, Mark Lindsay former lead singer of Paul Revere & the Raiders, and The Spencer Davis Group. BJ Thomas will follow on July 22 and after that Jefferson Starship on July 29. Shows are at 8 p.m.

The Orleans Showroom will highlight Dennis Miller July 15-16, D.L. Hughley July 22-23, and An Evening with Trace Adkins July 30-31.

Upcoming headliners at the South Point Showroom this month include: The Kingston Trio July 15-17; Paul Williams July 22-23; and James Darren July 29-30. Shows are at 7:30. Tickets are $20 and $25 for Williams.

Boston on their 40th Anniversary Tour will perform at The Downtown Las Vegas Events Center on Friday, July 15 with an appearance by Dennis DeYoung, founding member of rock band Styx. Barenaked Ladies will follow on Friday, July 22.

July Collins will appear in the Chrome Showroom at Santa Fe Station on Friday, July 15 at 7 p.m. Collins has produced a 50-album body of work in a career spanning five decades. Tickets range from $27.50-$49.50.

Headliners on Fridays this month at Stoney’s in Town Square include Maggie Rose July 15, Olivia Lane July 22, and Brodie Stewart July 29.

Wes Winters will headline Santa Fe Station’s new “Boomer Wednesdays” show on July 20 at 7 p.m. There is no cover.

On Monday, July 18 from 4-6 p.m. with registration an hour before will be held at the Henderson Convention Center for local children to appear in Missoula Children’s Theatre original production of “Peter (Pan) and Wendy” at 3 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 23. Show tickets are $5 child/senior and $8 adult.

DINING COMMENTARY

Glutton, a downtown gastropub by chef and restaurateur Bradley Manchester, is introducing “Toast & Toppings” on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The summer special running through Aug. 30 is available both days beginning at 5 p.m. Patrons can order an assorted crostini board filled with Manchester’s selections of the classic, wood-fired crostini bread bites topped with three different seasonal concoctions and a bottle of a featured wine for $20.

Nathan’s Famous inside Aliante will surely hit a home run on National Hot Dog Day with a buy one-get one special on Saturday, July 23. Guests will receive a hot dog free with the purchase of any combination meal including hot dog, side and drink.

In The Venetian db Brasserie has a summer seasonal tasting menu from July 25–31 beginning at 5 pm. nightly. The third tasting of this year will celebrate the season of sun and warm weather with The Summer Stone Fruits Menu. The multi-course menu is available for $60, call 702-430-1235.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant on Paradise Road is offering a seasonal summer prix-fixe dinner option for $45 for a limited time.

THE CENTER HOSTS EXHIBIT OF GARILYN BRUNE’S WORK

The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada (The Center) will host an exhibit of works by artist Garilyn Brune on Saturday, July 23, curated by collector Michael Feder. The showing begins at 6 p.m. and is open to all.

The late Garilyn Brune (pronounced BROO-nee) was a West Hollywood fine artist known for his pen and ink, digital and mixed media drawings of big, beautiful women, aging drag queens, large showgirls and erotically playful women. His love of illustration superseded the one time fashion designer’s desire to make garments.

‘PAWN STARS’ CAST MEET AND GREETS ARE EVOLVING

Due to high demand, the recently-announced weekly Thursday meet and greet with HISTORY’s “Pawn Stars” Chumlee will now be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. In addition, other Pawn Star favorites and experts will also be doing meet and greets. On Saturdays, security guard Antwaun will be there from 11 a.m. to noon. Expert Mark Hall Patton will be at the shop on Saturdays and Sundays between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m.

RANDOM NEWS ITEMS

JEWEL Nightclub at ARIA will launch “FLAWLESS Mondays” on July 18 with special guest DJ and Hakkasan Group resident Tiësto.

My friend Willi Baer and author of her third book and first novel “The Corksuckers” will be at The Pahrump Valley Winery for a book signing on Saturday, July 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Baer has been a nonprofit community leader and was previously the president/CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada and The American Heart Association of Nevada in Las Vegas.

The non club club F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events) will hold its Happy 12th Birthday on Monday, July 18 at 5:30 p.m. at the Italian American Club. Live entertainment will include Gary Anderson and The Malcontents and special guest star impressionist, singer and comedian Gordie Brown. Tickets are $25 with a dinner buffet included; RSVP to nonclubclubfiore@gmail.com.

Las Vegas Perks with discount offers often up to 50 percent off on dining, shows and attractions now has offers available on mobile smart phones.

The USA BMX 2016 Las Vegas Nationals will be held at the South Point Arena July 15-17. Revelers will witness the top amateur BMX racers sprint through big jumps, steep backsides and deep turns to win the coveted weekend title. This event is free and open to the public.

A charity dinner for the Pediatric Brain Tumor (PBTF) will be held at Joe’s Seafood at the Forum Shops at 6 p.m. honoring Dave Carter owner of Carter Motorsports, who started the PBTF efforts in Las Vegas. Tickets are $150 call 702-795-2000.

TWO CHARITY BOWLING EVENTS HAPPENING IN JULY

Bowl for Kids’ Sake - Big Hero Bowl at noon on Saturday, July 23 will have a superhero theme at Red Rock Lanes inside Red Rock Casino. Proceeds will support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada. Big Hero Bowl will award prizes and include a raffle and silent auction, refreshments and fun with emcee and resident superhero enthusiast Johiah of 93.1 FM The Party. Registration is $100, call 702-731-2227 or go online.

The 6th Annual Bowl 4 The Kids will take place Saturday, July 30 at the Strike Zone Bowling Center inside Sunset Station. While bowlers enjoy three bowling games, a commemorative t-shirt, pizza and other treats, there will be special activities for kids. Proceeds will support Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Charity Care Program that helps patients without medical insurance. Registration is $25, call 702-691-5716 or go online.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, July 17, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘THE TOMMY LAMA’ IS APPEARING AT THE LAUGH FACTORY

“Tommy Lama” is the alter ego of multi-award winning comedian Tommy Savitt who is headlining his own new stand-up “karmady” show at the Laugh Factory Comedy Club inside the Tropicana through Sept. 4. As his new stage persona Tommy Lama, he is a Brooklyn tough guy offering spiritual healing and life coaching in rare form as an “ordained” comedian. He is a politically incorrect spiritual healer who breaks all the rules.

Savitt’s delivery is slow and simple while he mixes education or common sense with comedic wit and innuendo-laden mantras. For example, when Dr. Phil says not to drink when you’re pregnant, Lama’s comment is “Then how are you supposed to get pregnant in the first place?”
Savitt actually practiced law and gave it up for comedy, which he’s been doing for 15 years. His legal background; however, helps him take logic and break it down in order to make people laugh at just about anything.

You can witness Tommy Lama on Monday and Friday at 7 p.m. and at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets range from $29.95 to $39.95.

MATT GOSS WILL CLOSE AT CAESARS PALACE IN SEPTEMBER

Ending a six-year resident run, tuxedo-clad crooner Matt Goss will perform his final show in The Gossy Room at Caesars Palace Saturday, Sept. 24. His intimate sold-out performances at the resort have been charming global audiences as well as celebrity guests including Sharon Stone, Jason Statham, Queen Latifah, Quincy Jones, Paula Abdul, Demi Moore, Michael Irvin, P. Diddy, Jerry Lewis and Dick Clark. Goss performs Friday-Sunday and Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. Tickets range from $55 to $120.

“I have a deep love for Las Vegas and the people that live and visit here,” said Goss. “I have seen shows come and go, and realize how hard it is to sustain a successful one so I am beyond proud and honored to be part of the rich heritage of Caesars Palace.”

In celebration of his 30-year career, Goss will headline at The SSE Arena, Wembley in London on Saturday, Oct. 1. Over his career, the multi-platinum artist has sold more than 20 million albums and headlined multiple sell-out tours, covering more than 20 countries.

OLÉ - CASA DEL MATADOR WILL OPEN IN DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN

Casa Del Matador will make its Las Vegas debut at Downtown Summerlin on Thursday, July 28. The new restaurant will offer scratch-made, seasonal Mexican cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails and a selection of 128 rare tequilas.

Casa Del Matador’s signature artistic interior design is created personally by the founders for each individual location. Highlights will include hand-picked lighting from Mexico and Morocco, artisan décor, custom ironwork and sugar skull wallpaper adorning the walls, and a hand-crafted bar with golden inlay. Flickering candles and an open floor-to-ceiling fireplace will create an amber glow.

The Matador concept is powered by Seattle-based boutique restaurant group Opper Melang Restaurants created by co-founders Zak Melang and Nate Opper with outlets throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Colorado. This will be the first location in Nevada.

MGM RESORTS LAUNCHES MOBILE REAL MONEY TOURNAMENTS

MGM Resorts International has launched a mobile gaming platform, easyPLAY® Mobile Tournaments, which is the first digital and interactive tournament offered by a regulated casino in the United States. Developed by mobile gaming tech company oneLIVE inc, the platform allows guests at nine Las Vegas MGM-owned resorts to compete with other players in a variety of tournament games using their own mobile devices, personal laptop, or the new InteractivePro™ Tables located throughout MGM Resorts’ properties.

The easyPLAY® platform provides the opportunity to win thousands of dollars in cash and other prizes by playing in regularly scheduled tournaments of classic casino games including slots, bingo and video poker as well as fun social, casual and console games. The first of many large contests is the All Summer Long Winner Takes All Progressive Slot Tournament. Guests who enter the tournament with a $5 entry prior to Sept. 4 will have the opportunity to spin the wheels to win the minimum grand prize of $10,000.

RARE AND CRAFT BEER HAVEN PUB 365 OPENED AT TUSCANY

PUB 365 is a new craft beer haven featuring 365 rotating craft beers and 40 draft handles inside Tuscany Suites & Casino. PUB 365’s beer collection includes an expansive rare beer menu called the Unicorn List, lucrative beer loyalty program and specialty cocktail menu featuring distinctive beertails.

The lunch and dinner menus feature traditional pub fare with a modern spin developed with input from Chef Carlos Buscaglia of Due Forni. Prices start at $6.

Guests can join PUB 365’s Mug Club to win exclusive prizes, private tap party invites and the chance to earn a personalized tap on the Tap Wall of Fame.

OPENED IN CHINATOWN

Since 2009, Hobak Korean BBQ has served traditional Korean food all over South Korea. The internationally-known restaurant franchise, fondly known among Koreans as a place for “sharing great things” and pumpkin logo (Hobak means pumpkin in Korean), opened at 5808 Spring Mountain Road in Chinatown last April. It is open for lunch and dinner daily from11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Hobak Family, Inc. was founded by chef and owner Chi Heon Kim. Since opening the first Hobak Korean BBQ in 2009, the company now operates 16 stores directly with eight franchises in Korea under eight different brands. The Las Vegas franchise is the first in the United States.

DU-PAR’S RESTAURANT IS OPEN AT SUNCOAST

If longevity is a sign of quality and popularity, Du-Par’s Restaurant and Bakery fits the bill. Established in 1938, Southern California’s legendary diner-style brand is now available at the Suncoast 24 hours a day with their famous signature buttermilk pancakes, fresh-ground hamburgers, made-from-scratch pies, and much more.

At a tasting, media was treated to hotcakes, Tiny’s patty melt, California chicken sandwich, Cobb salad, watermelon salad, mini Danishes and fruit pies samplers. When food is this good, why stay at home and cook.

HOOTERS HAS ENTERTAINMENT AGAIN IN NIGHT OWL SHOWROOM

Three shows that have been around Las Vegas for years have moved to the Night Owl Showroom at Hooters.

“The King starring Trent Carlini” plays Wednesday through Monday at 5 p.m. with a live band. Carlini has spent years presenting an uncanny portrayal of Elvis Presley. Nightly at 7 p.m. “Country Superstars Trbute” features tributes to Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire and more with a live band. Prices for both shows are $34.95 and $49.95.

Vinnie Favorito comes on with his totally unfiltered, no holds barred, jaw-dropping brand of comedy Thursday through Sunday at 8:30 p.m. with additional shows on Friday and Saturday at 10 p.m. Tickets range from $39.95 to $79.95. Sit up close is you dare!

THE GOLDEN TIKI CELEBRATES ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

The Golden Tiki in Chinatown will celebrate its first anniversary on Sunday, July 24 with the debut of Frank Marino’s shrunken head created for the venue’s cabinet of curiosities at 6:30 p.m. and a raffle for a trip for two to Hawaii. Trip entry is free for each person who signs up. The drawing will take place at midnight on July 25, and the winner must be present to win.

Sunday specials leading up to the July 25 celebration include from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. a free tiki punch with local ID and a limited edition $300 tiki diablo mug giveaway at midnight with free raffle tickets given out starting at 9 p.m.

BRIAN MCKNIGHT VISITS THE SMITH CENTER

Singer, songwriter and host Brian McKnight will appear in Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center on Sunday, July 31 at 8 p.m. McKinght has released 15 albums and sold more than 20 million albums worldwide. Tickets range from $33-$99.

Showcasing even more talent, in 2007, McKnight played the role of Billy Flynn in “Chicago,” and in 2009 toured nationwide in the play “Cheaper to Keep Her” with Vivica A. Fox. He was also a contestant on Donald Trump’s hit show “Celebrity Apprentice.” McKnight has used his vast industry knowledge as a red carpet host for “Extra.”

DINING BRIEFS

Standard & Pour, the all-new joint venture created by Simon Hospitality Group and Titan Brands, will host a job fair on Friday, July 22 for the gastro lounge restaurant set to debut in the Henderson late this summer in the former Firefly space at 11261 S. Eastern Ave. Jake Dieleman, who is currently the executive sous chef of Carson Kitchen, will take over as executive chef of Standard & Pour. The job fair will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Slice of Vegas at The Shoppes at Mandalay Place.

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés at SLS Las Vegas will feature Cornelius Dönnhoff, winemaker and owner of family-run Dönnhoff winery in Germany at a special, six-course wine pairing dinner on Friday, July 22 at 6:30 p.m. Bazaar Meat was recently awarded “Wine Spectator’s” Best of Award of Excellence for the second year. Tickets are $150, call 702-761-7610.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has released its first signature wine, Mille Gradi, meaning “a thousand degrees,” which is fitting since the pizzeria’s ovens can reach one thousand degrees Fahrenheit. The red blend incorporates three grape varietals–sangiovese, syrah and merlot. Grimaldi’s Executive Chef Cory Lattuca and an expert team traveled to the Italian Rocca delle Macìe winery in Tuscany to make this blend. Glasses of the wine start at $10, and bottles are $35.

Honey Salt at 1031 S. Rampart Blvd. has a guest chef dinner series and on Tuesday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m. Italian chef and TV culinary personality Carla Pellegrino, who is the executive chef/owner of Bratalian in Henderson, will present her signature dishes. Honey Salt’s Executive Chef Robert Camacho will start with a variety of shared bites in his “For the Table” selection. This communal dining experience is $49 with an optional wine pairing for $25.

In honor of National Ice Cream Day, HEXX Chocolate + Confexxions at Paris debuted its new Frozen Elixxr milkshake cocktails. The signature alcohol-infused treat is available in five flavors and made with various liquors and flavors of rich, artisanal High Road Ice Cream created by James Beard award winner, Keith Schroeder. The Frozen Elixxrs are $14.95 with the option of a souvenir glass for an additional $6.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has introduced a new “Half-Off Happy Hour” from 3 to 6 p.m. daily with half-off specials on appetizers, house margaritas, sangria, shots of Cabo Wabo tequila and draft beer.

The Habit Burger Grill plans to open a third location late this summer in the heart of Henderson on the corner of Stephanie Street and Warm Springs Road. The restaurant will feature 117 dining seats, including indoor and patio dining, complete with the California-inspired interior décor.

MELODY SWEETS HOLDS ‘WILD! JUNGLE BURLESQUE’ FUNDRAISER

“Absinthe’s” sultry Green Fairy Melody Sweets will transform the Absinthe Spiegeltent at Caesars Palace into a tropical jungle in her latest production – “Call of The Wild! Jungle Burlesque” on Saturday, July 30 at midnight. The one-night fundraiser will transport guests into the wild to benefit Siegfried and Roy’s SARMOTI Foundation, which is dedicated to protect, conserve and preserve endangered and threatened animals globally.

Sweets will perform a variety of songs, including original numbers from her debut album “Burlesque in the Black.” She will be joined by an all-star live band and other acts including: “Absinthe’s” Lijana Wallenda and her Wire Walking Wonders, Andrew Adams and Will Howard; Scotty the Blue Bunny; Miss Exotic World, Trixie Little; Mr. & Mrs. G’s crossbow stunts; King of Burlesque, Captain Kidd; and more.

Pre-sale tickets online at MelodySweets.com are $25 and $40 for VIP.

THIS AND THAT NEWS

Due to popular demand, seven rare fragile artifacts recovered from RMS Titanic’s wreck site will be on display for an extended two-week period of time at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition inside the Luxor through Monday, Aug. 1 when the remarkable treasures will be permanently retired from public view.

“SiriusXM Backspin Presents The Art of Rap Festival” will take place at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center on Saturday, July 23. True to Ice-T’s 2012 documentary “Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap” and the 2015 festival, the Las Vegas lineup will include performances by Public Enemy, The Sugar Hill Gang, Naughty by Nature, Mobb Deep, Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio, EPMD and Kurtis Blow with host Chief Rocker Busy Bee.

Remedy’s 9th anniversary will be celebrated with a ’70s-themed party at Distill in Southern Highlands at 4830 W. Pyle Ave. beginning at 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 30. There will be prizes for wearing the retro-clothes of the period…bell bottoms, gold lame, jumpsuits, disco shirts, etc.

Pinot’s Palette will hold its next Paint–Drink–Dine summer painting events at Crazy Pita in Town Square on July 28 and Aug. 11. Cost is $39

The Fashion Show mall has launched its Summer Movie Series through Aug. 24. The complimentary family movies are shown on massive digital screens in the Great Hall at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays. Upcoming movies include: “Zootopia” July 20; “The Rookie” July 27; “Despicable Me 2” Aug. 3; “Big Hero 6” Aug.10; “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” Aug. 17; and “ET” Aug. 24.

In celebration of Nevada Ballet Theatre’s milestone 45th Season, Jeff White Custom Jewelry along with prima ballerina Cynthia Gregory, will debut a specially designed series of ballet-inspired pendants starting in October with proceeds going to the dance company.

A Nevada judge rejected a plan to build on the historic site of the first racially integrated casino Moulin Rouge in Las Vegas, citing infighting in the would-be development firm and a better offer from another buyer. The ruling came just seven weeks after a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the property.

The rooftop bar Beer Park at Paris will hold a viewing party for the championship between Robbie “Ruthless” Lawler and Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 30. Viewing party packages start at $30 and are available for purchase upon entry at the venue.

The History of Burlesque in Las Vegas will be the topic for the Thursday, Aug. 4 free monthly lecture series at the Clark County Library at 1401 E. Flamingo Road at 7 p.m. Burlesque Hall of Fame executive director Dustin Wax will share the history of burlesque in Las Vegas from Harold Minsky’s first revues at the Dune and Lili St. Cyr’s residency at the El Rancho through the glamour years of the 1970s.

The National Atomic Testing Musuem on E. Flamingo Road will hold a “Movie Night at the Museum” on Friday, Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. with free admission. The 1996 movie “Independence Day” starring Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum and Vivica A. Fox will be screened with popcorn, boxed candy and water available for purchase. Also a raflle will be held for a two-night stay at the Las Vegas Renaissance Hotel.

America’s first Mah Jongg World Championship will be held at the Westate at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 22 and 9:30 a.m. on July 23 and 24.

Lake Las Vegas now has models open now by three different builders: Regatta Pointe by CalAtlantic Homes; MonteLucca by Century Communities and The Peaks; and Lago Vista by William Lyon Homes.

The next Essence Educates: Wellness Wednesday education program will be Know Your Terpenes on Wednesday, July 27 at 6:30 inside Essence-Henderson at 4300 E. Sunset Road Suite A3. It’s free of charge; RSVP online. Learn what Terpenes are, where these elements are found in nature and the benefits of pairing certain strains in the possible treatment of certain conditions/ailments.

RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS WILL APPEAR AT BACKSTAGE BAR & BILLIARDS

Smash Magazine will presents alternative rock band, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus with Ronnie Winter on vocals, at Backstage Bar & Billiards downtown on Friday, Aug. 19 at 9 p.m. with supporting acts Bravo Delta, Shallow Like Me and Reckless Reckless. To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the band’s debut album, “Don’t You Fake It,” the band is on the road this summer playing the now certified platinum record in its entirety for the first time. Tickets are $15 in advance and $17 day of show.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, July 24, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

RINGO AND HIS ALL STARR BAND WILL VISIT SMITH CENTER

Ringo and His All Starr Band will perform at The Smith Center in Reynolds Hall on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will go on sale Saturday, July 30 and start at $35.

Ringo and his current and longest running All Starrs who have been together five years feature Todd Rundgren, Gregg Rolie, Steve Lukather, Richard Page, Warren Ham and Gregg Bissonette. Ringo assembled his first All Starr Band in 1989 and found consistent success as a live act with his revolving All Starrs touring the world with 12 different bands to date.

TEXAS TENORS HEADLINE LIMITED ENGAGEMENT AT BALLY’S

Three-time Emmy Award winners and Billboard Top 10 recording artists The Texas Tenors will bring their touring show for a two-night engagement Aug. 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. to the Windows Showroom at Bally’s. The classical crossover trio originally showcased their sound on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” as top four finalists and now have the distinction of being the highest ranking vocal group in the history of the series. They amassed a huge fan base with their hit PBS special “You Should Dream” and four Billboard chart topping albums. Tickets start at $49.50.

‘RAIDING THE ROCK VAULT’ ENDS RESIDENCY AT THE TROPICANA

“Raiding the Rock Vault” will end its residency at The Tropicana on Sunday, July 31. The production has headlined at the property since 2014, and before that it was at the Westgate (formerly LVH) where it was launched in 2013.

Consistently ranked the No. 1 Performance in Las Vegas on TripAdvisor, “Raiding the Rock Vault” brings the history of rock 'n' roll to life by the musicians from the iconic bands that played the music and it was voted Best of Las Vegas in 2014 and 2015 by readers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

The show currently stars musicians and vocalists who played with the following groups letting you know this band is the real deal: Heart; MSG; Survivor; Rough Cutt; Quiet Riot; Badfinger; Asia; Lynch Mob; The Offspring; Lita Ford; Hardline; Bon Jovi; Dokken; Ted Nugent; Starship; and Meat Loaf.

‘SHOWSTOPPERS’ AT WYNN WILL STOP

Another closing will be “Steve Wynn’s ShowStoppers” ending one month later on Friday, Sept. 30 at the Encore Theater. This production was inspired by great numbers from legendary Broadway musicals that generated monumental audience response such as the title song from “Cabaret” and “One” from “A Chorus Line.” This elaborate well-received show opened in November 2014 and features a cast of 66…singers, dancers and full orchestra. It’s been a real “showstopper” in its own right.

VENTRILOQUIST RONN LUCAS PERFORMS AT SUNCOAST

Celebrated ventriloquist Ronn Lucas will bring his comedy act to the Suncoast Showroom Aug. 26 and 27 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets start from $19.50.
Lucas has been performing as a ventriloquist for 45 years. By the time he was 21 Lucas was touring and eventually found success in both the United States and the United Kingdom. He is recognized as the first ventriloquist to headline a long-running show in Las Vegas. He’s received numerous awards and performed for U.S. Presidents Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush as well as Queen Elizabeth II. His cast of zany characters includes favorites such as Scorch the Teenaged Dragon, Buffalo Billy and Chuck Roast.

MCCARRAN AIRPORT LAUNCHES TRAVELER WALKING PROGRAM

Fly Fit at McCarran International Airport is the first airport fitness program created in partnership with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). The walking program was designed in response to “Step It Up!,” the Surgeon General’s call to action to make walking a national priority. Fly Fit provides travelers with convenient walking paths located throughout McCarran Airport’s terminals. Presented in multiple segments, paths range from approximately one-half to one-and-a-half miles long with options in areas both before and after security screening checkpoints. Paths, which are diagrammed on the airport’s website under Relax-Fly Fit, are identifiable with logo signage. Note that McCarran doesn’t offer carry-on bag storage, so you have to take your roller bag or backpack on your walk with you.

It’s been noted that an average of 22 minutes a day of physical activity - such as brisk walking - can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

JAECI INTERACTIVE BOUTIQUE OPENS DOWNTOWN

After five years of being online and a jewelry wholesaler for boutiques coast-to-coast, the first JAECI interactive boutique and brick and mortar store will open Friday, July 29 Downtown at 107 E. Bonneville featuring the company’s signature jewelry and additional lifestyle brands for men and women. The store, which will be closed on Sunday and Monday, will have a café-style lounge complete with free Wi-Fi, a question wall and an interactive station.

Local jewelry designer Jenna Consiglio is the president of JAECI and an entrepreneurial design junkie. As a teenager she was diagnosed with AIH (auto-immune hepatitis), which altered her outlook on life. Consigilo wanted to make a difference and to inspire people to believe in their dreams and inner weirdness so she created her inspirational graphic jewelry line JAECI. The name stands for the initials in her first and last name, spelled out with an Italian twist with the acronym “Journey. Aim. Experience. Create. Inspire.”

NEON MUSEUM CARRIES FOSSIL’S BETTY WILLIS WATCH

The Neon Museum downtown is now carrying a limited-edition Fossil watch that was inspired by the iconic landmarks created by pioneering sign designer Betty Willis. The watch, which is available in the museum’s gift store and online, comes with a commemorative booklet dedicated to Willis’ distinctive life (1923-2015) and achievements.

Fossil’s creative director Kaspar Spurgeon Heinrici visited the museum in 2015 and was inspired by the impact Willis had on mid-century signage design and the lasting effect her creations particularly the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign have had on the world. Willis never copyrighted the famous gateway Welcome sign done in1959. The face of the watch sits in the center of two intersecting pieces in gold and silver tones, which reference 1950s and 1960s-style design elements namely the arrows.

Fossil is an American watch and lifestyle brand since 1984 inspired by all things curious.

NEWS ABOUT ‘MYSTÈRE’ AT TREASURE ISLAND

“Mystère” is the original Cirque du Soleil production in Las Vegas that led to the Quebec-based organization started in 1984 from a group of 20 street performers to have seven permenent resident shows in Las Vegas. A special deal for the summer is tickets starting at $49.50.

The show at Treasure Island features an international cast of 75 artists performing high-energy acrobatics. An invigorating change is a new version of its famous Teeterboard Act. Making this rendition even more exciting, the act has a new teeterboard, more powerful acrobatic sequences, faster paced choreography and new artists. The new board is shorter and catapults artists higher and faster into the air, soaring to impressive heights of nearly 20 feet.

A rare opportunity to observe cast members rehearsing is happening every Saturday from 3 to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 4:30 to 5 p.m. In addition, guests attending receive an exclusive offer—a voucher for two tickets for $99 that can be presented at the box office.

Two opportunities to meet a “Mystère” cast member and take photos with them will happen on Tuesdays, July 26 and Aug. 9 at 5 p.m. Free and open to guests of all ages, the meet-and-greets will take place at the Mystère Theater.

MOB MUSEUM HOSTS CUBAN-THEMED PARTY

The Mob Museum will host Hot Havana Nights on Thursday, Aug. 4, from 6 to 10 p.m. and transform the property into a tropical paradise. Guests will celebrate the vibrancy of Cuban culture, including its cuisine, exotic drinks, jazz sounds, dances such as the conga and salsa, classic casino games, a performance by Alberto Martinez & Mucial Fusion with Rosita Penichet on vocals, silent auction and hand-rolled cigars.

All-inclusive ticket options are $69 with a 10 percent Museum member discount and $49 excluding the open bar, call 702-229-2734 or go online.

THE MIRAGE CAN BE A FUNNY PLACE

The Aces of Comedy Series, launched in 2010, is always featuring top name comedians at The Mirage in the Terry Fator Theatre with performances at 10 p.m.

Some more recently added names with dates include: Leslie Jones, Kathleen Madigan, and Chris D’Elia.

Stand-up comedian and actress Leslie Jones will make her debut at the Terry Fator Theatre on Friday, July 29. Jones is currently a featured cast member on “Saturday Night Live” and is one of the four leads in Paul Feig’s all-female “Ghostbusters.” Tickets start at $39.99.

Kathleen Madigan will return on Friday, Aug. 5. Over her 25-year career, Madigan has performed on nearly every late night show ever made and “Ron White’s Comedy Salute To The Troops” on Country Music Television. Her hour stand-up specials “Madigan Again” and “Gone Madigan” are available on Netflix. Tickets start at $29.99.

Chris D’Elia will make his long-awaited return on Aug. 26 and 27. Currently D’Elia is starring as Danny Burton on NBC’s “Undateable” and he was previously named one of Variety’s “Top 10 Comics to Watch.” Tickets start at $29.99.

Other names on the Aces of Comedy Series lineup include: Tim Allen July 30; Jay Leno Aug. 6; George Lopez Aug. 12-13; and Ron White Aug. 19-20.

THE COSMOPOLITAN PROMOTES CONCERTS AT THE CHELSEA

The Steve Miller Band will headline The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan on Friday, Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. In the ‘70s, Miller crafted a brand of rock 'n' roll music that has continued to dominate radio over the years. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year. General tickets are $39 with reserved prices starting at $59.

Lynyrd Skynyrd and Peter Frampton will appear on Friday, Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $50.

Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd came to popularity during the 1970s. The band’s sophomore album, “Second Helping,” featured one of the group’s most popular songs, “Sweet Home Alabama.” In 1977, three of the band’s members including lead vocalist and songwriter Johnny Van Zant died in an airplane crash and the band broke up. A decade later, the reunion tour included the surviving band members as well as Johnny Van Zant, the younger brother of Van Zant as the new lead singer.

Peter Frampton, a ‘70s rock star, began playing the guitar at the age of eight. In 1975, Frampton recorded a live album “Frampton Comes Alive!” and his most successful selling more 16 million copies and topping the charts for 10 weeks straight. In 2013, Frampton was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame.

MANDALAY BAY’S BEACH CONCERTS OFFERS OUTDOOR FUN

Mandalay Bay’s Beach Concert Series takes advantage of the surroundings allowing outdoor concert-goers to wade in the water at the resort’s 1.6-million-gallon wave pool.

UB40 featuring Ali Campbell with Astro & Mickey Virtue, the founding members of the legendary reggae/pop group, will have music filling the air on Saturday, July 30 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50.

Always upbeat Grammy-Award winning band Huey Lewis and The News will provide the beat on Friday, Aug. 19 at 9 p.m. Formed from two rival Bay Area bands in 1979, Huey Lewis and The News wrote and performed “The Power of Love” for the hit film “Back To The Future.” Tickets start at $49.50.

The Lost ‘80s Live tour on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9 p.m. will feature some of the most recognizable acts from that great decade. Tickets start at $35.

AUGUST ENTERTAINMENT IS VARIED AT ALIANTE

In August, Aliante will feature Adam Ferrara, Peter White and Matt Marshack.

Actor and comedian Adam Ferrara, a two-time nominee for best male stand-up by the American Comedy Awards, will perform in the Access Showroom on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 8 p.m. Ferrara has three Comedy Central specials under his belt. He is well known for his role in the Emmy-nominated drama, “Rescue Me,” and for co-starring alongside Ryan Reynolds in “Definitely, Maybe.” Tickets start at $17.50.

Acoustic guitarist Peter White has been performing contemporary jazz for four decades. The Luton, England, native acquired his distinctive style while accompanying and co-writing with Al Stewart. His 2014 album, “Smile,” brought White to a total of 14 solo albums. Tickets start at $32.50.

On Friday nights in the showroom from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., there’s a weekly All-Star Friday Nights dance party featuring neo-soul, funk, contemporary jazz and R&B hits. The cover charge is $10.

Poolside Jazz Under the Stars will prevail on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. starring guitarist Matt Marshack, best known for his eighth and most recent album, “Lifestyle.”

Tickets start at $23.50.

ADVERTISING COMMUNITY GETS READY FOR ANNUAL TALENT SHOW

Every year the local Las Vegas advertising community gets together and produces a talent show to raise money for the area’s Safe Nest. Right now bands, comedians, dancers, singers, etc. are being asked to submit their acts. The talent show “Step Up To The Mic” will be held on Sept. 9 in the Chrome Showroom at Santa Fe Station at 7 p.m. Tickets will be $25 and there will be a silent auction. For almost two decades, the Advertising Community Talent Show (ACTS) has raised more than $400,000 for this deserving charity. Mark your calendars.

PATCHWORK NEWS

Taco Bell is planning to open a flagship store featuring the chain’s new Cantina-style restaurant with an open kitchen design, sharable menu items and alcohol this fall on the Strip at Harmon Corner across from The Cosmopolitan. There will be a dining patio and it will be open 24/7.

For the third year in a row, comedian and actor Kevin Hart and HartBeat Productions will bring their popular HartBeat Weekend to The Cosmopolitan on Friday, Sept. 2. Hosted by Hart, there will be two performances, one at 7 p.m. and an encore at 10:30 p.m. The evening will showcase Hart’s well-known comedian friends as well as a renowned surprise guest comedian to close the show. Tickets start at $50.

Celebrity chef and owner of her own restaurant at The Cromwell, Giada De Laurentiis is a yoga enthusiast and was one of the first to experience the newest High Roller offering, which is a yoga session on the observation wheel at The Linq Promenade.

The Fremont Street Experience continues its Rock of Vegas Summer Concert Series with free headliner concerts at 9 p.m. Future lineup includes: Horizon on Saturday, Aug. 6 - 1st Street Stage; Melissa Etheridge on Saturday, Aug. 20 - 3rd Street Stage; and Smash Mouth closing out the series Labor Day Weekend on Saturday, Sept. 3 - 3rd Street Stage.

Paul McCartney reunited with Ringo Starr and John Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono for the 10th anniversary celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s “The Beatles LOVE” at The Mirage recently along with a random mix of celebs such as Ron Howard, Josh Hutcherson, Kevin Dillon, Chris Harrison of “The Bachelor,” and Eagles rocker Joe Walsh. Howard directed the documentary “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week — The Touring Years” that will be released in September.

Here’s an interesting sighting. Famous “Dance Moms” instructor Abby Lee Miller recently attended “X Burlesque” at the Flamingo. Following the show, Miller joined the sexy cast for photos.

Momenti Spirited Ice Creams manufacturing spirit-infused super premium ice creams and sorbets locally responds to consumer demand with a couple retail outlets Total Wine & More and Khoury’s Fine Wine & Spirits selling eight-ounce individual cups of Momenti for $5.99.

BRIO AND BRAVO! CELEBRATE NATIONAL LASAGNA DAY

In recognition of National Lasagna Day, sister restaurants BRIO Tuscan Grille at Town Square and Tivoli Village and BRAVO! Cucina Italiana in Henderson will partake in a two-day celebration of the flavors of Italy with classic and chef-inspired dishes on Thursday, July 28 and Friday, July 29. The festive dishes created specifically for the recognition include BRAVO!’s Chicken Diavolo Lasagna and BRIO’s Roasted Vegetable Lasagna.

Additionally, BRAVO!’s specialty and classic lasagna dishes will be available at half price during lunch and dinner on July 28. Guests dining at BRIO during the two days will receive a complimentary salad with the purchase of lasagna.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, July 31, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

BLUE MAN GROUP’S ‘WAX SHACK’ IS NEW AT THE LUXOR

The Blue Man Wax Shack is a new display at the Luxor allowing visitors to experience what it’s like to go inside Blue Man Group’s creative world. The attraction features three Blue Man Group wax figures created by Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. The art installation gives guests a humorous look inside Blue Man Group’s creative world full of props and provides a comical photo-op with a hole cut for a guest to put their face in a landscape painting on the wall.

In addition, there is a special combo package offer. For $81, the package includes a category C ticket to the Blue Man Group show and general admission ticket to Madame Tussauds at The Venetian. The package can be purchased at any Luxor Box Office, the Madame Tussauds Box Office, or by calling 800-557-7428 and mentioning “Madame Tussauds.”

XAVIER MORTIMER ADDS PERFORMANCES AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

French export Xavier Mortimer, who launched his first solo Las Vegas show at Planet Hollywood in June, is adding two more shows on weekends to his weekly schedule in the Sin City Theater. “Xavier Mortimer’s Magical Dream” beginning Saturday, Aug. 6, will be performed eight times a week. Shows will be nightly except Wednesday at 7 p.m. and also at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $49 and $69.

Mortimer is the first Cirque performer to launch a headlining show on the Strip. He has graced stages in more than 30 countries, and most recently starred in Cirque du Soleil’s show “Michael Jackson ONE” at Mandalay Bay.

His 70-minute magic show is in an intimate showroom and unlike many illusion shows has more of a story flow without the apparent lead up to a trick followed by “ta-da!” It’s really a more interesting show that appears is being readily accepted by audiences.

COYOTE COUNTRYFEST RETURNS TO THE ORLEANS ARENA

The annual country all-star concert Coyote CountryFest presented by 102.7 The Coyote radio will return to the Orleans Arena on Saturday, Aug. 13, with performances from Cole Swindell, Jon Pardi, Love and Theft, Brett Young and Sierra Black. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are available from $20.
Georgia native Swindell’s rise to fame began as a songwriter for country music stars Luke Bryan, Chris Young and Florida Georgia Line, among others. In 2013, he released his debut single “Chillin’ It” and in February 2014 followed it with a self-titled album.

            Pardi is best known for his rowdy approach to country music. His debut single was “Missin’ You Crazy” in 2012. A year later, his second single “Up All Night” became his first Top 10 hit.
            Country duo Love and Theft hit the country music scene in 2009 with their debut album and have released three albums. They are best known for their No. 1 single “Angel Eyes.”
            Country music up-and-comer Young released his debut EP earlier this year with the single “Sleep Without You.” Young was recently named one of Rolling Stone’s “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know.”
            Las Vegas native Sierra Black hit the country music scene as an opening act for country greats like Joe Nichols, Little Big Town and more. Last year, she had the honor of performing a duet with Keith Urban, who hand-picked her for a performance of “We Were Us.” She is currently working on her debut EP and released her first single, “Heart on Ice,” earlier this year.

CAESARS PALACE CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN BIG WAY

Marking a half-century, world-renowned Caesars Palace is celebrating its golden anniversary with a weekend of events highlighted by a free public fireworks display at 10:20 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 5.

Also on Friday, there will be a special birthday pool party for hotel guests hosted by award-winning chef Gordon Ramsay at the Garden of The Gods pool oasis. During the poolside celebration, the winner of the 50th Anniversary nationwide cocktail competition will be revealed.

On Saturday, Aug. 6, Caesars Palace will further celebrate its 50-year entertainment legacy with a Grand Gala event for invited VIP guests. The extravagant evening will be hosted by comedian Howie Mandel and headlined by Tony Bennett who was the second performer to appear at the Circus Maximus Showroom in 1966. The gala will also have surprise appearances and special performances by current Caesars Entertainment headliners including Wayne Newton, Donny and Marie Osmond, Matt Goss, and The Righteous Brothers.

The resort is continuing its free, self-guided walking photo tour and exhibit highlighting memorable moments and people in the resort’s rich history through the end of August.

In addition, Searsucker Las Vegas, Chef Brian Malarkey’s contemporary restaurant at the hotel, will offer a special $50 prix fixe three-course menu Aug. 1-31.

COMEDIAN GILBERT GOTTFRIED WILL HEADLINE M RESORT

The M Resort will be featuring comedy on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. with famed comic and renowned actor Gilbert Gottfried headlining with Jerry Rocha, a semi-finalist on NBC’s “Las Comic Standing,” as his opening act. Tickets are $19.99, $29.99 and $39.99.

Gottfried is a household name and his unparalleled humor puts aside political correctness and fires an onslaught of jokes without boundaries. Gottfried is best known for his roles in “Beverly Hills Cop II,” “Problem Child,” “Look Who's Talking II” and as the wise cracking parrot, IAGO, in the Disney classic “Aladdin.”

SOUTH POINT LINES UP NAME HEADLINERS

Every month South Point books strong and varied headliners with August featuring Louie Anderson, Earl Turner, and Tony Orlando performing 7:30 p.m. shows.

Anderson will lead off with comedy on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 5 and 6. This funny-man is best known for his appearances on NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” CBS’ “Family Feud,” FOX’s “Life with Louie,” and in the hit movie “Coming To America.” Tickets start at $15.

Multi-talented singer, songwriter, musician and dancer, Earl Turner, will be celebrating musical icons on Aug. 12 and 13. His special guest will be Elisa Fiorillo, formerly of Prince and New Power Generation (NPG). Starting his career at 19 with his own tour, Turner is the ultimate entertainer who has shared the stage with Lou Rawls, Gladys Knight, Earth Wind & Fire and many more. Tickets start at $20.

Tony Orlando will excite audiences Aug. 19 through 21 with his greatest hits, including “Tie A Yellow Ribbon,” “Knock Three Times,” “Sweet Gypsy Rose,” and more. Tickets start at $45.

TONY PACE MAKES RETURN VISIT TO LAS VEGAS

After 640 days on the road in the last two years Tony Pace will visit Las Vegas again on Sunday, Aug. 14 and appear at the South Point in the newly remodeled intimate Grandview Lounge at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

The evening will be about music, laughter and energy. Pace is a classically trained tenor with a four octave range. He’s also very funny and noted for his impressions. Pace first gained headliner status in Atlantic City as a signature artist for Resorts Hotel & Casino and then he appeared in Las Vegas at the Tropicana and the former Clarion.

BEER PARK WILL HOST OPENING CEREMONIES VIEWING PARTY

Beer Park at Paris will kick off the 2016 Olympics summer games with an opening ceremonies viewing party on dozens of high-definition televisions throughout the rooftop bar and grill beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 5. As the torch makes its last stop in Rio de Janeiro, Beer Park will honor each country by serving up a complimentary Budweiser Signature draft beer to guests wearing their favorite country’s apparel.

There will also be tailgate-style fare with an array of signature menu items including chile verde nachos; breakfast burger with fried egg; or Shock Top bratwurst.

WESTGATE HOSTS 40TH ANNUAL MRS. AMERICA PAGEANT

The 40th annual Mrs. America Pageant will return to its original home at the Westgate on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the Westgate Theater with actress Florence Henderson, star of the classic show “The Brady Bunch,” hosting. Tickets are available at 310-829-9902 and in-person the day of the show. The pageant will be streamed for free at MrsAmerica.com.

Preliminaries for the 2016 Mrs. America Pageant will be held Thursday, Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The winner on Saturday will go on to represent the United States in the internationally-televised Mrs. World Pageant.

The Mrs. America Pageant was first held in 1938 and continued until 1968. The pageant was revived after a nine-year hiatus in 1977 at the-then Las Vegas Hilton by David Marmel who helped transform the pageant into the multifaceted event it is today.

WTT SMASH HITS WILL RETURN TO CAESARS PALACE

Some of the greatest players in tennis history are returning to Las Vegas this fall as World TeamTennis (WTT) Smash Hits returns to Caesars Palace on Monday, Oct. 10. The 2015 Las Vegas debut of WTT Smash Hits at Caesars Palace was just that – a smash hit that raised more than $1 million for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Caesars Palace, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is also home to Elton John’s hit show, “The Million Dollar Piano.”

John McEnroe, Andy Roddick, Martina Navratilova and Lindsay Davenport will headline the annual charity tennis event co-hosted by longtime friends Sir Elton John and Billie Jean King. Tennis action will begin at 7 p.m. on a specially-constructed tennis court in the valet parking lot adjacent to Caesars Palace Drive.

Captained by King and John, the players will form two teams and play a WTT match featuring singles and doubles action. The evening will begin with a pre-match VIP Reception and Auction at 5 p.m. VIP ticket packages are $500. All seating will be reserved and have chairbacks. For tennis action only, Premium Reserved seats are $125 and Reserved seats $55; call 866-320-9763 or 888-929-7849.

NEXT OSCAR DINNER SERIES DISCUSSES ‘HIDDEN OWNERS OF VEGAS’

The next dinner on the Oscar Dinner Series will be held on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Oscar’s steakhouse at the Plaza featuring former city of Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman speaking about “The Hidden Owners of Las Vegas: The Rest of the Story.” He will discuss the secret criminal control of the Las Vegas casinos.

The three-course gourmet meal will be paired with red and white wines as well as the signature Oscar Goodman Martini while Goodman talks about his experiences as a criminal defense attorney that are hallmarks of Las Vegas’ fascinating history. To attend an RSVP and pre-payment of $150 is required, call 702-386-7227 or email RSVP@playlv.com.

DISTURBED WILL MAKE A TOUR STOP AT HARD ROCK

The multi-platinum band Disturbed formed in Chicago in 1996 will visit The Joint at Hard Rock on Friday, Sept. 23. Tickets start at $45.

Disturbed have been touring in support of their No. 1 album “Immortalized,” which produced three No. 1 singles, the latest being their haunting version of Simon & Garfunkel’s classic hit “The Sound of Silence.” The hard rock band comprised of David Draiman on vocals, guitarist Dan Donegan, drummer Mike Wengren, and bass player John Moyer, have sold more than 15 million albums globally and scored 12 No. 1 singles at Rock Radio. Their quadruple-platinum debut album “The Sickness” formally announced their musical arrival in 2000.

SUNSET STATION’S ‘NASHVILLE UNPLUGGED’ GIVES INSIDER LOOK

“Nashville Unplugged” at Sunset Station in Club Madrid will highlight songwriter Lila McCann on Friday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. McCann made her professional music debut at 16 years old with the single “Down Came a Blackbird.” She followed with 1999’s gold-certified album “Something in the Air,” which included the hit single “With You,” and 2001’s “Complete.”

The show is hosted by singer/songwriter Aaron Benward with his most recent hit being “Who I Am” featured on ABC’s “Nashville” and Travis Howard, whose credits include Miranda Lambert’s “Famous In a Small Town,” “Bring Me Down” and “Heart Like Mine.” These two talented musicians regularly present well-known songwriters so you get the story behind the song. The cover at the door is $10.

LAS VEGAS’ AZZURRE SPIRITS ACQUIRES CANADIAN VICTORIA DISTILLERS

Las Vegas-owned Azzurre Spirits has acquired Victoria Distillers, one of Canada’s oldest, small-batch spirits companies, located in Sidney, British Columbia.

Victoria Distillers will begin producing Azzurre Vodka and Azzurre Gin, which is currently available throughout Nevada. Azzurre Vodka has been awarded a 94 rating by The Tasting Panel and a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Azzurre Gin has received a 93 rating from the Beverage Tasting Institute and a 91 rating from The Tasting Panel, among other accolades. Azzurre is naturally gluten/GMO free with no added sugar.

ART COMPETITION WINNERS WILL BE ON DISPLAY

Jana’s RedRoom Gallery, located downtown in the Arts District, held a recent worldwide inaugural Las Vegas International Juried Art Competition. More than 350 individual pieces of art were entered by 207 artists from 35 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, and 11 countries. The Best of Show winner was Denise Weaver Ross from Albuquerque, N.M., with her drawing “The Jacks of Jupiter.” The Best of Show and 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place and 19 Honorable Mention winners’ artwork will be on exhibit at the gallery Sept. 1-30.

RECOGNIZING S’MORES AND RUM

No date celebrating food seems to be overlooked in Las Vegas. For National S’more Day on Wednesday, Aug. 10, La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway inside Wynn will offer their popular S’mores flatbread. Corporate Executive Chef William Demarco created the memorable flatbread by adding gooey toasted marshmallows and chocolate to flatbread dough topped with rich white and milk chocolate drizzles and graham cracker crumbs.

At Therapy downtown, they will feature their Cast Iron S’mores dessert for $9 on National S’mores Day Aug. 10. It is made with a graham cracker crust, dark semi-sweet chocolate and toasted mallows; plus, there’s an option to add bacon on the side or on top, at no additional fee.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will celebrate National Rum Day with a special rum flight offered exclusively on Tuesday, Aug. 16. The $21 rum flight will feature a trio of Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum, Red Rum and Barrel Aged Rum aged in-house. Another rum offer is Cabo Wabo Rum Punch, a 45-ounce punch bowl crafted with a blend of Caribbean rums and fruit juices, priced at $39. Guests can keep the souvenir punch bowl glass for an additional $10.

NEWS TIPS

Identical twins Drew and Jonathan Scott – hosts of four of HGTV’s popular shows including “Property Brothers” – will make an exclusive Q&A appearance and have a book signing on Tuesday, Aug. 2 from noon to 2 p.m. during the furniture – home décor trade industry’s Summer 2016 Las Vegas Market.

PUB 365, the new craft beer haven featuring 365 rotating craft beers and 40 draft handles, is open now at Tuscany. The lunch and dinner menus feature traditional pub fare with a modern spin and prices starting at $6. Folks can join the Pub 365’s Mug Club to win exclusive prizes, invitations to private tap parties and the chance to earn a personalized tap on the Pub 365’s Founder’s Wall.

First Friday Foundation will feature “art attack” for the Aug. 5 First Friday event downtown including E320’s lineup of entertainment on the city of Las Vegas stage.

Now in its 15th year, the Vegas Valley Book Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. downtown at the Historic Fifth Street School. The event is free and open to the public. Through Sept. 30, Clark County high school students in grades 9–12 are invited to submit original poems to win one of three cash prizes: $300, $200 and $100.

DRONE CLASSES ARE BEING HELD AT SOUTH POINT

Drones are popular and expert instruction from the best aeronautics and drone specialists in the business are being held at the South Point through August. FAA Part 107 training will be included to coincide with new regulations due out this summer. The next four-day training classes by drone services company AviSight will take place July 26-29 and Aug. 23-26.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

THE SMITH CENTER WILL WELCOME DEEPAK CHOPRA

Renowned author and medical professional, Deepak Chopra will take the Reynolds Hall stage at The Smith Center for a one-night-only engagement of The Future of Wellbeing on Friday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m. with tickets starting at $35.

Chopra will be in Las Vegas on the heels of his latest book launch for “Radical Beauty – How to Transform Yourself from the Inside Out” this September. He will discuss practical ways to experience higher consciousness, transformation and ultimate healing. Chopra has been named one of “The 100 Most Influential People in Health and Fitness” and has authored more than 80 books and several “New York Times” best-sellers.

1893 RESIDENCY CELEBRATES CAESARS PALACE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

1893 from the Makers of Pepsi-Cola in partnership with Caesars Palace will bring the brand’s history to life with The 1893 Residency at the resort in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd recently helped kick-off the residency by debuting four specialty cocktails at the 1893 cocktail lounge located at the Spanish Steps and available through the end of October. The 1893 Residency will showcase a experiences celebrating the old and the new through a series of curated themes including music, culinary, mixology/cocktails and fashion.

The 1893 Residency at Caesars Palace will hold a throwback prohibition cocktail party at the Montecristo Cigar Bar on Saturday, Sept. 10. Floyd will blend 1893 signature cocktails.

The celebration will culminate with an over-the-top fashion show and pool party at the Neptune Pool hosted by NERVO on Sunday, Oct. 2 while guests enjoying Floyd’s Cocktail Theatre.

As part of the 1893 Residency at Caesars Palace, fans can enter for a chance to win a trip to Las Vegas, including VIP access to the events. Information is online.

GLORIA TREVI’S WORLD TOUR WILL STOP AT THE COSMOPOLITAN

Mexican singer and songwriter Gloria Trevi will kick off her El Amor World Tour at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan on Saturday, Sept. 17. Tickets start at $29.

Trevi is a proven superstar in music with more than 30 million albums sold worldwide. Currently, she is shooting the new season of vocal talent show “La Voz Mexico” as a judge while working on the release of the live version of her album “El Amor.” Recently, she was awarded the President’s Award at the BMI Latin Ceremony for her excellence in Latin music.

STRIP HEADLINER MAT FRANCO’S FIRST ANNIVERSARY HELPS ANIMALS

In celebration of the first anniversary of his first headlining resident production on the Strip, the Season Nine winner of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” magician Mat Franco is teaming up with Sunny 106.5 FM and Petco to collect needed supplies to benefit Nevada’s largest open-admission animal shelter, The Animal Foundation. Visit any one of the nine local Petco locations now through Friday, Sept. 2 to purchase and donate a minimum of $10 worth of items from the organization’s wish list and receive one complimentary ticket voucher to see “Mat Franco - Magic Reinvented Nightly” live onstage at The LINQ. A maximum of two vouchers will be awarded per transaction.

ORLEANS ARENA WILL HOST HARD ROCKER EVENT

American hard rock favorites Trapt, Saliva, Alien Ant Farm and more will rock the Orleans Arena at X107.5’s 20th Anniversary: “Make America Rock Again” tour on Friday, Sept. 2. Special meet-and-greet tickets are available for the show, allowing access to a one-hour barbeque in addition to the concert. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $15.

            Platinum-selling rockers Trapt found success in the early 2000s with their self-titled album, which included the band’s single “Breakdown” that skyrocketed to over a million sales, and it was followed up by three additional top-10 hits. The group will be releasing their newest album, “DNA,” this month.
            Saliva dominated the airwaves throughout the 2000s with chart-topping hits like “Raise Up” and 2002 Grammy Award-nominated “Your Disease.” With nine studio albums released over the span of their two-decade career, their latest album “Love, Lies & Therapy” was released this year.
            Grammy-nominated for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2001, Alien Ant Farm found worldwide success with their ironically titled debut album “Greatest Hits.” Their hottest single was a cover of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal,” which hit No. 1 on the charts internationally, and was featured on soundtracks for “WWE Tough Enough” and “American Pie 2.”

Other acts will include: Saving Abel; Kentucky natives Tantric; post-grunge band 12 Stones; and Crazytown.

FOR 5TH YEAR, ANNUAL POLE EXPO WILL RETURN TO LAS VEGAS

Pole Expo will return Wednesday, Sept. 7 through Sunday, Sept. 11 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. The largest worldwide event in pole fitness is the brainchild of local entrepreneur, Fawnia Mondey, and illustrates the art, fitness, athleticism and competitive nature of the growing sport.

As the producer of the world’s first instructional video on how to pole dance, Mondey is known as the pioneer of pole dancing. She has produced seven instructional DVDs and is a respected judge for pole competitions around the world at the highest of levels.

Attracting thousands from more than 50 countries, Pole Expo 2016 will highlight the industry with a five-day event including workshops, competitions, seminars, a pole expo and guest performances. A special appearance by Jalles Franca, as MJ The Legend, and Tomoko, age 70, from “Italia’s Got Talent” will kick off opening night ceremonies.

ALIANTE OPENS GARDEN PATIO ON FRIDAY-SATURDAY NIGHTS

Aliante is introducing Hot Summer Nights on the patio at MRKT Sea & Land and opening it at night beginning Friday, Aug. 5. The new promotion will feature chef selection bites and bottomless drinks available from 8 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The new menu special will include bottomless house wines and bottled beers available for $35, along with a selection of chef-inspired appetizers.

ILLUSIONIST SETH GRABEL WILL BRING MAGIC TO SOUTH POINT

Illusionist Seth Grabel will transform the newly renovated Grandview Lounge inside South Point with mystery and magic on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available for $15.

Grabel is best known for his appearance on Season 6 of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” He performs AcroMagic, a concept that incorporates magic and acrobatics, along with sleight-of-hand and engagement with the audience. Grabel’s father was also a magician and his mother a professional dancer so show business was a natural path for him. Grabel has been seen on syndicated shows such as “EXTRA” and “Playboy TV” as well as networks including CBS and Univision. Over the years, he has appeared in shows such as “Fantasy” at the Luxor and has toured around the world.

SPOKANE HOOPFEST WILL MAKE FIRST LAS VEGAS VISIT IN OCTOBER

Spokane Hoopfest will bring Las Vegas 3-on-3 to Toshiba Plaza at T-Mobile Arena and the top of the New York-New York parking garage Oct. 14–16 for a weekend of cross-overs and 3-pointers. The event is new to Las Vegas and will give “Hoopfesters” the rare opportunity to play basketball while enjoying 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip.

As the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Hoopfest has hosted nearly 28,000 players on 7,000 teams, 3,000 volunteers and 225,000 fans on more than 450 courts spanning 42 city blocks in Spokane, Wash., for more than 25 years.

There is a spot in a bracket for all type of basketball players from high school age and up. Teams will be bracketed according to height, gender, age, and competition level. Registration costs between $160 and $200. Admission is complimentary for fans to watch.

ROGER CLYNE & THE PEACEMAKERS VISIT SLS FOR TWO SHOWS

To celebrate Labor Day Weekend, southwestern music icons Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers (RCPM) will take over SLS and perform live at Foxtail Pool on Saturday, Sept. 3 and The Foundry on Sunday, Sept. 4. Originally known as “the refreshments,” RCPM stepped onto the scene in 1999. They are the only band to release seven consecutive albums from an independent record label with all of them landing in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Internet Sales Chart, with their first studio album, “Honky Tonk Union” debuting at No. 1. Tickets to both events start at $25.

LAS VEGAS HOSTS FREE AUGUST CONCERT, PROGRAM AND EXHIBIT

The city of Las Vegas will host a free youth theatre performance, a free country music concert in the park, and a new exhibit of ceramic works during August.

A free performance of the musical “AMANDLA…Power to US!” for all ages will take place at The Smith Center Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Performing & Visual Arts Summer Camp for Kids, the youth participating in this summer’s camp at the West Las Vegas Arts Center will perform the show. Admission is free, but a ticket is required; call 702-749-2000 for tickets.

Contemporary country music band GHOSTLIGHT will perform a free concert for all ages Saturday, Aug. 27, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Lorenzi Park at the outdoor Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza. Chairs and blankets are allowed and food and beverages will be available for purchase for cash.

The public is also invited to meet artist KD Matheson and see his exhibition of recent ceramic works in the Grand Gallery at City Hall on Main Street Thursday, Aug. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. during the free artist’s reception. The free exhibit is available Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

GIRL SCOUTS HOLD ANNUAL DESSERT BEFORE DINNER FUNDRAISER

This year at the annual Dessert Before Dinner fundraiser for the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada, 11 local women pastry chefs with several being former Girl Scouts, will compete at the extravaganza taking place Saturday, Sept. 10 at Caesars Palace from 6-9 p.m. This year’s signature Girl Scout cookie will be Caramel deLites and the chefs will utilize the chosen cookie to create a one-night-only dessert before dinner with guests voting for their favorite cookie-inspired creation. Event tickets are $350.

This year’s chefs will include many first-time participants: Tammy Alana – Alizé at the Top of the Palms; Denise Elliott – MGM Resorts International; Michelle Flores – Caesars Palace; Kyurim Lee – Aria; Kaori Scott – Bellagio; Elizabeth Stolarick – Wynn; and Samara Sulin – Andiron Steak & Sea. The returning chefs will include: Brigette Contreras – STK at The Cosmopolitan; celebrity sugar artist Kaiulani – KAILAVA; Kimberly Vitou – MGM Grand; and Cynthia Werth – Stratosphere, the only chef who has competed every year since the event began nearly 10 years ago.

In addition to the chefs’ competition, an array of high-profile women will be honored and receive honorary badges, selected specifically for them based on their own professional and philanthropic achievements.

VEGAS RESTAURANTS WILL HONOR AMERICA DURING SUMMER GAMES

La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway inside Wynn will celebrate America during the summer games with a special “Red, White and Bleu” sangria and charcuterie special, served exclusively from Friday, Aug. 5 through Sunday, Aug. 21. Priced at $36, the special will include thinly-sliced prosciutto di Parma, robust sopressata, Landana aged Gouda and Truffle Tremor cheese. The spread will be paired with two glasses of La Cave’s signature house-made sangria, including one red and one white.

CRUSH inside the MGM Grand will be cheering on America with viewing parties and an exclusive burger and beer pairing available from Friday, Aug. 5 through Sunday, Aug. 21 for $24. Prepared by Corporate Executive Chef William DeMarco, the special will feature a half-pound Angus burger topped with Applewood bacon and Vermont cheddar paired with a locally-brewed Tenaya Creek Bonanza Brown Ale.

Mexican restaurant Pancho’s in Downtown Summerlin will pay tribute with the Gold Medal Margarita priced at $10.75 and will also show the games on televisions.

Cabo Wabo Cantina in The Miracle Mile Shops will feature viewing parties on more than 20 TVs located throughout the lower-level cantina area. Cabo Wabo also has a new “Half-Off” Happy Hour offered daily from 3 to 6 p.m.

Aliante will offer a Gold Medal Mule in the Race & Sports Book during the games priced at $5.

CANTINA LAREDO WILL HOLD TEQUILA DINNER

The next quarterly tequila dinner at Cantina Laredo inside Tivoli Village on Rampart Blvd. will be on Saturday, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. with specially-crafted cocktails created by partner, Casa Noble. A representative will provide guests with a brief history of the triple distilled and certified organic tequila, which is the culmination of seven generations of tequila makers. Chef Todd Patricelli will dish up a four-course meal paired with a cocktail each time. The exclusive tequila dinner is $49.99, call 702-202-4511.

FAST TRACKING MIXED ITEMS

Beginning Monday, Aug. 1, TopGolf will change hours slightly to Sunday-Thursday 9 a.m.-2 a.m. and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m.-3 a.m.

“Puppet Up! – Uncensored” opened at The Venetian recently and following the show’s premiere, public relations folks were having fun and claimed the police arrested some of the puppets on several charges including DWI – Driving While Inanimate.

Starship featuring Mickey Thomas will appear at The Railhead at Boudler Station on Friday, Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. Thomas joined Jefferson Starship in 1979 and in 1985 released the album with No. 1 hits – “We Built this City” and “Sara.” Tickets range from $25 to $55.

At every Ditch Fridays event in August at the Palms Pool, guests have two chances to win a pair of Life is Beautiful tickets Sept. 23-25. Upon entry to the party, each guest will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing held during the evening. The other is through the Palms Pool Instagram page (@palmspoolLV). The morning of each event a clue will be posted hinting where inside the party a lucky partygoer can locate a winning pair.

Leica recently opened its first-ever Las Vegas store located in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. The outlet allows consumers to explore Leica cameras first-hand and select sport optic products in a dedicated space with access to a highly-trained staff. A rotating selection of prints is on display showing imagery captured with Leica cameras.

New York-based fashion house DKNY recently opened a completely redesigned store at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. The new design reflects the evolution and the transformation of the DKNY brand.

DC Solar, Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s official off-grid mobile solar partner, has been named title sponsor of the track’s NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race for 2016. The DC Solar 350 will take place at LVMS on Saturday, Oct. 1, with John Wes Townley returning to defend his title from a year ago. It will be the 20th staging of the popular NASCAR series race at LVMS.
Bazaar Meat by José Andrés at SLS Las Vegas® introduces a new menu of signature small plates, innovative libations, and featured wines and beers, served exclusively at its Bar Centro nightly from 5:30 p.m. Additionally from 5–7 p.m., the bar’s menu offers a selection of specially-priced wines and beers to complement the bar bites.

Another Forum Shops venue TREVI Italian Restaurant is celebrating both National S’mores Day on Aug.10 and National Banana Split Day on Aug. 25. TREVI will feature their s’mores gelato made with chocolate chunks, creamy marshmallows and honey-flavored graham crackers, starting at $4.50 per scoop. TREVI also has the Banana Veneziana (aka the ultimate sundae) with bananas, a trio of gelati, chocolate and caramel plus strawberry sauce for $12.

Hard Rock Cafe on the Strip is suggesting folks make it their fantasy football draft headquarters from Aug. 14-31. For $100 per person (inclusive), you can have a reserved table with unlimited domestic draft beers and appetizer platters, a draft kit and access to Wi-Fi. For more info, call 702-650-8590.

NATIONAL RELAXATION DAY IS AUG. 15

National Relaxation Day will be acknowledged on Monday, Aug. 15. Like who knew! Anyway, the Spas at The LINQ and Flamingo will celebrate with spa deals for visitors. The 50-minute LINQ Signature Facial or Massage will be $105 and at the Flamingo either one will be $99.

If you want to take an 80-minute drive to Mesquite on the Nevada/Utah border, The Spa & Salonat CasaBlanca wants you to relax. They are offering a slew of stress-relieving treatments from massage to manicures Aug. 15-19 with a 10-percent discount when booking one treatment and 20-percent off when booking two or more.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Aug. 14, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

NEW PRODUCTION OF ‘ABSINTHE’ WILL MOVE TO THE COSMOPOLITAN

“Absinthe” show producer The Gazillionaire will open a new production of the long-running hit show at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. In collaboration with The Cosmopolitan, Spiegelworld productions will take over and re-imagine the former ballroom space in Rose. Rabbit. Lie., creating a distinct, all new venue for “Absinthe.” Rose. Rabbit. Lie. will continue to operate as a modern supper club offering dining and live entertainment.

“Absinthe” will hold its last performance in the outside tent at Caesars Palace on Friday, Oct. 21, and will commence previews at The Cosmopolitan in late 2016. The move serves as the next chapter for “Absinthe,” which was first presented in 2006 in a spiegeltent in New York City. It opened in Las Vegas in 2011.

PLAZA DEBUTS ‘ONE EPIC NIGHT!’ WITH TV TALENT SHOW FAVORITES

“One Epic Night!” is a brand new live stage show that will debut at the Plaza downtown for a limited engagement from Aug. 29 to Jan. 4 (dark Dec. 1-20) featuring some finalists from popular talent competition shows. The 70-minute, all ages show will run Saturday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. with some 4 p.m. matinees instead of 7 p.m. shows on Saturdays - Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 8, 15 and Nov. 5, 12.

The show’s performers will include: Megan Ruger, a contestant from season six of “The Voice” and season 10 of “American Idol;” Will Champlin, who placed third on season five of “The Voice;” Jarrett and Raja: “The Magic and Piano Guys,” who were contestants on “Masters of Illusion” and “Shark Tank” and were Howie Mandel’s wild card pick on season seven of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent;” and James Durbin, a singer and guitarist from Santa Cruz, Calif., who finished in fourth place on the 10th season of “American Idol.”

Tickets are $59.95, $79.95, and $109.95. In addition, Plaza hotel guests can buy one ticket and get one free. A “dinner and a show” package is available for $130.35.

JOHN RICH WILL OPEN LIVE MUSIC CLUB AT GRAND BAZAAR SHOPS

John Rich, best known as half of the country music duo Big & Rich, is expanding his Redneck Riviera apparel brand with plans to open a 400- to 500-capacity music club at the Grand Bazaar Shops in front of Bally’s. The second-floor venue will have retractable doors leading to an open-air patio. For food, the club will offer a menu selection served to you from Wahlburgers eatery on the first floor. Patriotically, staffed by veterans there will be a Heroes Bar offering a first drink free to active military and vets.

Musically, most nights will feature a house band but Rich plans on being a regular with other big names also occasionally making appearances.

‘SIN CITY COMEDY & BURLESQUE’ HAS NEW TIME, VENUE AND SHOWCASE

In June, the seven-year-old “Sin City Comedy & Burlesque” (SCCB) show moved across the Mezzanine level at Planet Hollywood to The Cabaret. Seating is a mix of classic cabaret style with comfortable leather chairs, couches and cocktail tables, standard general admission seating, and standing room at the bar. SCCB features an ever changing lineup of nationally known comedians and some sexy showgirls. Performances are nightly at 9 p.m.

“Tease from the Strip,” a showcase for rising comedians and hosted by comedian John Hilder, is new. Comedians compete for cash prizes on Tuesday and Thursday nights starting at 10:30 p.m. There is no cover charge. Comedians looking to participate must sign up at the end of any showcase.

LARGE SCALE LEGO® MODELS OF D.C. LANDMARKS VISIT FASHION SHOW

THE LEGO® Americana Roadshow, an educational and free traveling installation of larger-than-life LEGO replicas of some of our nation’s most beloved landmarks, will be on display at the Fashion Show Las Vegas mall Sept. 27-Oct. 9.

Replicas with stunning visuals and fun facts will include: the U.S. Capitol Building, White House, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall, and Old North Church. The U.S. Capitol Building is over 25 feet long and 10 feet high. Exhibition hours will be Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday noon-7 p.m.

VAN MORRISON WILL PERFORM TWO SHOWS AT CAESARS PALACE

British R&B icon and legendary composer, singer and performer Van Morrison will headline two nights at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Friday and Saturday, Jan. 13 and 14. As a special offer, a physical CD of Van Morrison’s upcoming album, “Keep Me Singing,” will be included with every ticket ordered. Tickets range from $56.20 to $257.

Morrison by the age of 13 was working as a travelling musician playing guitar and saxophone in several bands. In 1964, he formed the group Them, which recorded “Gloria” and “Here Comes the Night.” A few years later, he released “Brown Eyed Girl” and began his solo career as a successful musician. He has since released more than 30 albums and his upcoming album, “Keep Me Singing,” will be available Sept. 30.

MELISSA ETHERIDGE SET TO PERFORM FREE FREMONT STREET SHOW

The Fremont Street Experience’s next Rock of Vegas concert series free outdoor show will present Melissa Etheridge on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 9 p.m. on the 3rd Street Stage. Etheridge’s most recent song “Pulse” is dedicated to the Orlando shooting victims. Along with her massive hits including “I’m the Only One” and “Come to My Window,” she can also be heard in Al Gore’s documentary “An Inconvenient Truth” singing her song, “I Need to Wake Up.” Her most recent album is “This is M.E.” released in September 2014.

‘TONY SACCA’S VEGAS THE STORY’ WILL OPEN AT BALLY’S

Show producer-entertainer Tony Sacca will open his 2 p.m. matinee show “Tony Sacca’s Vegas the Story” in the Windows Showroom at Bally’s on Friday, Sept. 23. The show, created and written by Sacca presents the city’s history with humor and song from the 1930s to the present day with a spotlight on Las Vegas headliners. The late David Brenner did story consulting and added material. There will be a cast of five on stage with music under the direction of Grammy award winner Gary Anderson.

TOP SHOT IS NEW NON-LETHAL SHOOTING RANGE

Top Shot Las Vegas is the first non-lethal shooting range in Las Vegas located at 3084 S. Highland Drive, Suite C. Now instead of shooting at a static paper target, participants can practice realistic scenarios with the target moving. For all skill levels, the goal is to provide the opportunity to become firearm proficient free of live ammunition. The non-lethal training ammo with real recoil and shell ejection is used on virtual ranges and in the Shoot House.

FRENCH MONTANA SET FOR EXCLUSIVE TAO GROUP RESIDENCY

Rapper French Montana will kick off an exclusive residency with TAO Group venues in Las Vegas on Saturday, Sept. 17 at Marquee Nightclub in The Cosmopolitan, with additional venues and dates to be announced later. His sophomore album, “Mac & Cheese 4,” is set to be released Aug. 19. He’s collaborated with everyone from Jennifer Lopez to Jay-Z. In addition, Montana started acting by playing himself in the romantic comedy “The Perfect Match,” which came out last May.

HEADLINER JEFF CIVILLICO LAUNCHES WEEKLY SHOW

“The Weekend in Vegas” is a new entertainment-news program hosted by Flamingo headliner Jeff Civillico. The show takes place in front of a live audience at The LINQ Promenade fountain and will officially debut on Thursday, Aug. 18 with a red carpet start at 8 p.m. Fellow Flamingo headliner Olivia Newton-John is scheduled to appear on the show with Venetian headliners Human Nature performing songs from their new show "Jukebox.”

In addition to filming at The LINQ, other Vegas experiences will be covered by segments including: “Lucky 7” – best seven weekend bets; “Music Minute;” the “60-Second Wedding;” the “Taste of Vegas” restaurant spotlight; etc.

The stage at The LINQ is an attraction. A repurposed shipping container has been made into a portable two-story studio and it is placed on top of the fountains each week using a crane. The lower stage features guest performers and interactive games while the upper one has the house band. Live audience members have a chance to be on TV and win prizes.

A 30-minute version of the show will air every weekend on KTNV, the Las Vegas ABC affiliate. The 60-minute version of the show will stream online every Thursday at 6 p.m. PT.

MANDY MOORE CREATES NEW CLOSING NUMBER FOR ‘FANTASY’

Celebrating more than 16 successful years on the Strip, four-time Emmy Award-nominee Mandy Moore will spice up the “FANTASY” show in the Atrium Showroom at the Luxor by choreographing the show’s new closing number. The new routine set to Justin Timberlake’s smash hit “Can’t Stop the Feeling” will debut during the show’s calendar release event this fall.

Moore is best known for her work on television series “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars.” Her most recent dance planning is on the upcoming musical comedy “La La Land” starring Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling and J.K. Simmons.

SIEGFRIED & ROY’S TIGER CUBS CELEBRATED FIRST BIRTHDAY

Siegfried & Roy’s newest tiger cubs Hirah and Maharani celebrated their first birthday this month at Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. The girl cubs played with papier-mâché “1” piñatas and were treated to big juicy watermelons and presents while guests enjoyed cookies decorated with a white tiger face.

BABY SHARKS ARE HATCHING AT NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

This month, a mother Banded Bamboo Shark at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum’s Marine Life Gallery laid 24 eggs to be hatched and raised at the museum’s dedicated shark hatchery. The hatchery is back-lit and the eggs are translucent making the development of the sharks something that can be observed and measured. Eventually, these sharks will move to the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay to live.

Three baby sharks that emerged already were named (Michael) Phelps, (Cody) Miller and (Lily) King acknowledging the 2016 USA Olympic Swim Team members.
Admission to the museum starts at $10 for adults.

CHARLI XCX HEADLINES OFFICIAL PRIDE PARADE CONCERT

Pop singer and songwriter Charli XCX will headline the official Las Vegas PRIDE after-party concert on Friday, Oct. 21 at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC). The special one-night-only event will commemorate the 18th Annual PRIDE Night Parade beginning at the 4th Street parade route and running from 8 to 10 p.m. with the concert immediately following. Tickets start at $20.

British performer Charli XCX emerged on the London music scene in 2008 performing at energetic raves. In 2013, she achieved international success collaborating on the popular singles “I Love It” with Icona Pop and “Fancy” with Iggy Azalea. This year, Charli XCX will continue to create a distinguished sound with the launch of her boutique music label Vroom Vroom.

RECENT RESTAURANT OPENINGS

Have talked about the following restaurants in the past but now they are all open.

The 10,000-square-foot and first Cracker Barrel location in Las Vegas is open beside the Silverton on Blue Diamond Road right off the I-15. The next one will open in North Las Vegas in September.

Casa Del Matador recently made its Las Vegas debut at Downtown Summerlin with its south of the border, scratch-made cuisine. Happy Hour is offered daily from 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. and brunch is featured Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Every Tuesday from open until close, Casa Del Matador with a selection of 128 rare tequilas offers half-off on any tequila $12 or more.

Award-winning Chef Shawn McClain reveals his latest culinary creations for his third Las Vegas restaurant, Libertine Social, now open at Mandalay Bay. Featuring two bars, a social dining room, chef’s table and patio, Libertine Social is creating different vibes.

CURACAO WILL OPEN FIRST NEVADA LOCATION AT MEADOWS MALL

Curacao, a California-based retail giant with a focus on Hispanic culture, will open its 12th store and first in Nevada at the Meadows Mall this fall. Founded in 1981 in Los Angeles, Curacao has evolved into a top 50 U.S.-ranked electronics and appliance retailer with stores throughout California and Arizona. The 100,000-square-foot store at Meadows Mall will offer full range of department store merchandise as well as a wide range of services, including travel arrangements through the Curacao travel agency.

ORLEANS HOSTS 28TH ANNUAL MRS. VIETNAM WORLD COMPETITION

International beauty-talent pageant, Mrs. Vietnam World 2016 will have married Vietnamese women competing at The Orleans Showroom on Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. The competition will have Viet Tao as emcee, performances by singer Khac Viet and vocal group The Men, along with a fashion show by designer Tommy Nguyen. Tickets start at $38.15.

The winner will have the honor of representing Vietnam at the Mrs. World pageant in South Korea.

ENTERTAINMENT IS ONGOING AT BROOKLYN BOWL

Michael Franti & Spearhead will give off cool vibrations at Brooklyn Bowl on Friday, Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. While the notoriously-barefoot Franti’s career began in 1986 with an industrial punk and spoken word group, Spearhead came together and has been performing since 1994. Tickets start at $35.

Austin, Texas-based instrumental quartet, Explosions In The Sky will perform on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 9 p.m. The group has woven its way into pop culture, being heavily-featured in the hit television series, and film of the same name, “Friday Night Lights.” Tickets start at $25.

SPEED NOTES

The Monte Carlo resort will be closing its pool, The Pub eatery and other outlets along the Street of Dreams shopping area for good on Oct. 3. Hotel guests will be given access to pools at MGM International’s sister properties. This move will be the start of the property’s $450 million transformation into two separate hotels — Park MGM and the NoMad Las Vegas, and 5,300-seat Park Theater with completion by 2018.

The Roos-N-More zoo in Moapa, 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas, is open again. Intentions are for the facility to be open to the public on Saturdays. The hands-on animal attraction is limited to 150 mammals and 200 people on the property at any given time. Admission is $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 2 to 17.

Due to extraordinary demand, four-time Grammy® Award winner, Lionel Richie, has released three additional performance dates Dec. 27, 29 and 30 during New Year Eve’s week for “Lionel Richie - All the Hits” at The AXIS in Planet Hollywood. Shows are at 8 p.m.

The “Mat Franco – Magic Reinvented Nightly” show at The LINQ celebrated its first anniversary this month. Franco and company were presented with a custom, magic-inspired cake and cupcakes.

Hard Rock Live on the third floor at Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip will host Slipknot’s official after party featuring DJ Starscream (Sid Wilson of Slipknot) and DJ Lethal on Sun., Aug. 21 at 10 p.m. Cost is $10. Concert-goers can enjoy the daily Happy Hour from 10 p.m. to closing, featuring $3 beer, $4 wine and $5 call drinks.

On National Bratwurst Day, Tuesday, Aug. 16, Beer Park is offering a brat and brew $5 special, which includes Beer Park’s Shock Top bratwurst and a Budweiser Signature draft.

The High Roller Observation Wheel during the month of August is offering a special discounted daytime ticket, which is general admission for $15 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

National Cheese Pizza Day at TREVI Italian Restaurant in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will be celebrated on Monday, Sept. 5. TREVI’s signature cheese pizza will be specially-priced at $10 for the holiday.

Crazy Horse III gentlemen club’s at 3525 W. Russell Road will host “Topless Tailgate” game day viewing parties on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays for the duration of the 2016 NFL and NCAA seasons beginning Saturday, Aug. 27.

LOCAL LIFE TIME ATHLETIC CLUBS HOST BIKES AND BRUNCH EVENTS

Life Time Athletic Las Vegas clubs will hold a Bikes and Brunch event from 8 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Green Valley location and Saturday, Aug. 27 at Summerlin. The fitness-fueled events will feature an hour-long cycle class, followed by a gourmet brunch spread. Events are free for members and $30 for non-members, which include a 24-hour club day pass.

Green Valley’s brunch will feature a complimentary beverage upon entry, as well as the option to purchase a bottomless beverage pass for $10. Brunch at Summerlin will be held at the LifeCafe’s covered outdoor patio and have a DJ and full bar with numerous drink options.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Aug. 21, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

NYLE DIMARCO WILL GUEST HOST ‘CHIPPENDALES’ SHOW AT THE RIO

“Dancing with the Stars” and “America’s Next Top Model” winner, Nyle DiMarco will be the latest celebrity guest host for the “Chippendales” production at the Rio for four weeks from Sept. 22–Oct. 16. DiMarco with his moves, physique, charisma and charm will also be the first-ever Deaf member of the internationally renowned production.

The native New Yorker happens to be fourth generation Deaf. He attended Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., the only liberal arts university in the world for the Deaf, where he earned a degree in mathematics. In 2013, DiMarco had a leading role in the independent film “In the Can,” which was told in American Sign Language with English subtitles. In 2014 and 2015, he played the recurring role of Garrett Banducci in “Switched at Birth” on the Freeform network.

‘MICHAEL JACKSON ONE’ HOSTS KING OF POP BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Cirque du Soleil® and the Estate of Michael Jackson are celebrating Jackson’s birthday by holding a three-day extravaganza at Mandalay Bay. Hosted by “Michael Jackson ONE,” the King of Pop’s fourth annual birthday celebration will take place Aug. 27–29. Guests attending performances on those days will receive exclusive access to the various festivities all three days.

Each night before the 7 p.m. show, ticket holders will have access to a rare meet-and-greet opportunity in the lobby with Estate members and other guests. An event on Aug. 27 will feature the unveiling of a fourth piece of Michael Jackson memorabilia.

On Michael Jackson’s birthday, Aug. 29, there will be a full afternoon of activities kicked off by the cast of “ONE,” with a performance at the theater at 3:15 p.m. At 3:30 p.m. in the theater, the Name That Michael Jackson Tune competition hosted by “ONE” musical director, Kevin Antunes, will give nine fans the opportunity to win prizes by identifying audio clips from the King of Pop’s songs. Afterwards there will be a special book signing event hosted by the Michael Jackson ONE Boutique with author Michael Bush, who was Jackson’s designer and dresser for 25 years. His book is “The King of Style: Dressing Michael Jackson.”

THE ANGRY BUTCHER STEAKHOUSE DEBUTS AT SAM’S TOWN

The Angry Butcher Steakhouse, a contemporary take on the classic American steakhouse, has opened at Sam’s Town in the heart of the Mystic Falls Park atrium. The patio and bar are open for a daily social hour from 4-6 p.m. with a special menu of small bites. The main dining room opens at 5 p.m. featuring an eclectic menu of rustic steakhouse fare paired with signature side dishes.

The restaurant’s design has a high-contrast neutral color scheme with upholstered private booths, hand-finished ceiling beams, a walnut plank floor, and a row of glittering light pendants visually anchoring one side of the dining room. An opposite wall features a spacious display kitchen that runs the length of the restaurant. A curated collection of bric-a-brac adorns the arched and lighted display partitions in the center of the dining room.
The Angry Butcher’s signature cuts include the prime rib on or off the bone. Steaks are charbroiled at 800 degrees in a Jade Range Broiler, which sears both sides of the steak, locking in moisture. The meal’s sidekicks are a range of reimagined classics like smashed sweet potatoes spiked with bourbon.

MERCATO DELLA PESCHERIA OPENED AT ST. MARK'S SQUARE

Mercato Della Pescheria, an Italian seafood market-style restaurant with more than a dozen culinary stations, opened in St. Mark’s Square at The Venetian. The eatery includes open-style specialty kitchens. At the La Birra and Cantinetta bar stations, guests are served a handpicked selection of imported and domestic beer and wine along with artisanal cocktails.

VINNIE FAVORITO RELOCATES HIS SHOW TO THE WESTGATE

Vinnie Favorito, known for his quick wit and sharp tongue, has teamed up with Red Mercury Entertainment in a joint venture to produce his new comedy show “Vinnie Favorito Unfiltered” opening at the Westsgate Wednesday, Sept. 7. His show seriously comes with a funny warning disclaimer to audiences: “If easily offended, you might want to see another show as this show intends to offend and will not subscribe to any ideas of political correctness.” Beware his show is edgy.

Boston-born comic Favorito doesn’t follow a script and he’s been headlining in Las Vegas since 2003. His shows will be Wednesday through Sunday at 9 p.m. inside the Cabaret Theater. Tickets range from $49 general admission to $125 for Golden Circle with a meet and greet following the show.

PSYCHO LAS VEGAS 2016 PLANNED AT HARD ROCK

The Hard Rock resort will hold a three-day head-banging bacchanal property-wide Psycho Las Vegas 2016, Aug. 26-28, featuring 90-plus acts from around the world including Alice Cooper, three stages, an interactive backlight chamber, a Boogie Van Blackjack Tournament, film screenings, and parties galore. Tickets range from single day for $99 plus fee to a three-day pass for $250 plus fee.

DAVE & BUSTER’S OPENED AT DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN®

Nevada’s first and the company’s 87th Dave & Buster’s opened this month at Downtown Summerlin. The restaurant-arcade franchise company has divided its 34,000-square-foot entertainment destination into two main sections.

One side is an adult arcade world with more than 180 state-of-art and latest simulators and games. Games surround the Winner’s Circle store-like area with all the prizing on display. The other area is for dining, drinking and watching sports on HDTVs covering numerous walls.

Dave & Buster’s offers weekly specials and there are two Happy Hours: 4:30-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 p.m. to closing Sunday-Thursday, offering half-price cocktails. Hours of operation are: Sunday–Thursday 10 a.m.–midnight; Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–midnight; and Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

PITBULL RETURNS TO THE AXIS AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

Global music superstar Pitbull will return to The AXIS at Planet Hollywood with his show, “Pitbull: Time Of Our Lives” Thursday and Friday, Sept. 15-16. The international music sensation launched his Las Vegas residency in September 2015 and returned for another successful run in March. Pitbull’s larger than life production will kick off Fiestas Patrias.

HENDERSON HOSTS 17TH ANNUAL SUPER RUN CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Hot rods, muscle cars and vintage vehicles from across the country will be attracted to Henderson for the 17th Annual Super Run Classic Car Show. As many as 1,000 cars and trucks, representing all years, makes and models, will be on display in the city’s historic Water Street District. Spectator admission is complimentary.

The Fiesta Henderson Hotel & Casino will host the official event kickoff from noon to 8 p.m. on Sept. 22 in the resort’s parking lot. The festivities will start at 10 a.m. all three days, Sept. 23-25. There will be concerts, automotive competitions, children’s activities, and vendors and exhibitors.

The Las Vegas Cruisin’ Association is accepting early car registration applications through Sept. 12 at a discounted rate of $60 per car and after that $75. Car show participants will have a chance to win nearly $9,500 in cash and prizes and more than 200 trophies will also be awarded.

DAVIDOFF CIGAR BAR HOSTS WOMEN OF INDUSTRY LAUNCH PARTY

Following the successful kick off of its Davidoff Insider VIP program, Davidoff Cigar Bar on the Plaza at Fashion Show is starting a new VIP program: Women of Industry. To celebrate the program’s launch, Davidoff Cigar Bar will host an open-invite party for men and women on Friday, Aug. 26 from 7-10 p.m. All guests will receive two complimentary glasses of champagne, plus enjoy 50 percent off additional drink selections.

Attendees will be among the first to receive the new Women of Industry VIP Card, which provides women with two complimentary glasses of champagne per visit, plus deals and promotions on cigars and cocktails, access to new retail products, early invites to future events and more.

AVIATION NATION AIR SHOW WILL RETURN THIS YEAR TO NELLIS

Aviation Nation air show and open house is returning this year to Nellis Air Force Base after the event was skipped last year. The Air Force Thunderbirds will be capping their 2016 demonstration season with performances on Nov. 12 and 13 at their home base in North Las Vegas. In addition, the team will have season-ending shows again in 2017 on Nov. 11 and 12.

This free mega-event attracts about 100,000 spectators over the two days and it’s open to the public. There will be aerial acts, and array of static displays from past and present, and the opportunity to interact with the airmen. Free public parking along with a designated handicapped area will be located at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and visitors must use round-trip shuttle bus transportation to and from Nellis Air Force Base.

BROADWAY IN THE H.O.O.D. PRESENTS ‘THE WIZ’ AT THE SMITH CENTER

Broadway in the H.O.O.D will present “The Wiz” live at The Smith Center on Saturday, Sept. 3 with two performances at 2 and 7 p.m. “The Wiz” retells the classic story of “The Wizard of Oz” with multi-cultural flair, a cast of 250 local performers, a live orchestra, and special effects. The show is non-stop party that tells the touching story of friendship, family, and the universal power of love with Broadway in the H.O.O.D creating a fresh and modern approach. Tickets start at $19.

ALEX AND ANI HOLDS GRAND OPENING AT FASHION SHOW MALL

ALEX AND ANI, an eco-conscious jewelry and accessories store, will officially celebrate its new Fashion Show Mall location with a grand opening public event to benefit Grant a Gift for Autism Foundation on Thursday, Aug. 25 from 7-9 p.m. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres provided by local farm-to-table Chef Johnny Church with light refreshments, live entertainment, shopping spree giveaways and more.

ASSORTED NEWS ITEMS

Due to demand, Steve Wynn’s “ShowStoppers” is having its closing date of Sept. 30 extended to Dec. 31 at the Encore Theater.

Wes Winters celebrated his 500th performance of his Las Vegas lounge-style “One-Man-Show” at the South Point in the Grandview Lounge last week. The award-winning versatile entertainer appears there every Friday and Saturday night from 6 to 9 p.m. and his shows are free.

The Riviera’s last tower was imploded last week and now the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority can go ahead with plans to use it for an expansion of the Las Vegas Convention Center expected to be completed in January.

Maverick Helicopters is partnering with Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas to introduce the Natural Wonders Experience, an exclusive, luxury helicopter flight and culinary experience featuring remote Grand Canyon and Valley of Fire private, remote landings. The three-hour excursion is only available to the hotel’s guests

Beer Park at Paris pays tribute to local talent by supporting Las Vegas DJs. The venue’s lineup includes natives, DJ Casanova and DJ KoKo spinning from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Thursday through Saturday.

Rio Spa & Salon will host its seventh annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit Locks of Love on Wednesday, Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests donating at least 10 inches of hair will receive a complimentary blunt cut and a 30 percent discount on any additional styling or coloring treatments offered at the salon.

In addition, Rockhouse at The Venetian will host Seth Grable from “America’s Got Talent” for an evening of magic and illusion on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 2 and 3 from 8-9 p.m. Tickets are $20.

The new public six-piece art exhibit in the lobby at Delano is “SpaceTime Kinetics” on view through Sept. 30. The freestanding three-dimensional works of art by Las Vegas-based Cristian Aluas are inspired by the relationships people create with each other and the energy each person shares with the universe.

The Texas Star Lanes offers leagues daily from morning to night. Starting Sept. 6, there will be 19 adult leagues suiting many different tastes and one youth league open.

CULINARY QUICK BITES

The Habit Burger Grill just opened its third Nevada location, which is in Henderson at 543 Stephanie Street. The first Habit Burger Grill opened in Santa Barbara, Calif. In 1969 and now there are more than 150 restaurants in 16 markets.

Chef Daniel Boulud’s contemporary French restaurant db Brasserie has started its “No B.A.D. Monday” bone-in and draft promotion. Every Monday starting at 5 p.m. guests who visit the bar and lounge and purchase a bone-in cut steak, will receive a complimentary American draft beer.

The quarterly tequila four-course dinner at Cantina Laredo inside Tivolli Village will be held Saturday, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. Guests will savor specially-crafted cocktails created by partner Casa Noble. Dinner is $49.99, call 702-202-4511.

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar at The Venetian will celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month this September with a special bourbon-infused flight, featuring four one-ounce pours including: Bacon Bourbon; Apple Spice; Honey Orange; and Salted Maple.

Mario Batali’s OTTO Enoteca e Pizzeria in St. Mark’s Square at The Venetian is honoring the 75th anniversary of the Moscow Mule by featuring The Multo Italiano, its signature Italian twist on the drink at the celebratory price of $7.50 through the end of 2016.

HEXX Kitchen + Bar at Paris will celebrate Labor Day weekend by adding an extra day of the restaurant’s weekend brunch on Monday, Sept. 5, available from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brunch offerings are $13.95. Drink selections include bottomless mimosas for $20 and a selection of bloody marys.

Chef de Cuisine Scott Pajak at Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo has created special football menus that pay tribute to the team’s competing each week on Monday- and Thursday-night televised games.

Last week, Rockhouse at The Venetian became the exclusive Las Vegas location serving Flavor Flav’s Chicken (FFC). Rockhouse offers FFC 10-piece for $13.99 and 24-piece for $24.99. The new partnership ensures that Flav will be no stranger to the property.

The Cosmopolitan will host ‘CRAFTS & COCKTAILS’ EVENT

The Cosmopolitan in partnership with Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits will host Crafts & Cocktails, an exclusive outdoor craft beer and cocktail experience with music at the resort’s Boulevard Pool, on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. Guests will have an opportunity to sample 75 distinct craft beers from a variety of local, regional and international breweries as well as a selection of interesting cocktail creations.

A separate ticket can be purchased for access to the festival’s five food stations.

Tickets range from $20/$45 Early Bird to Day of Event $45/$85 at the door.

EVENTS ON THE HORIZON

The Japanese Culture Day 2016 is a free event being held at the National Atomic Testing Museum on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can watch Taiko Drummers, experience an authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony, learn to write you name in Japanese, etc. Admission to the museum is separate.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will celebrate Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2-5, with live music, patio parties including guest sets from surprise DJs, drink specials and a hangover breakfast from 8-11 a.m.

The 6th Annual Cheers to Chocolate fundraiser to benefit Easter Seals Nevada will be held Friday, Sept. 16 from 6-9 p.m. in Henderson at The District. The event will feature cocktails and chocolate tastings, exclusive silent auction items, artists and entertainment. Advance adult online tickets are $35 and $40 at the door, and for young adults $20 and $25.

FIRST LAS VEGAS SHOWCASE HOUSE WILL OPEN IN JANUARY

The first-ever Las Vegas Showcase House has selected its list of participating designers for the inaugural house. Widely revered in the national design community, Showcase House events have occurred in major cities all over America but this will be the first time Las Vegas has it.

Opening to the public in January 2018, this undertaking will expose exquisite and innovative interior designs, architecture, landscaping and more. The house, located inside the Scotch 80s neighborhood, will feature an on-site cafe serving gourmet delights with wines and beers to complement the menu, and a collection of boutiques - The Shops at Showcase – with merchandise for sale.

Las Vegas Showcase House will serve as a major fundraiser for progressive education movement Core Academy, powered by The Rogers Foundation.

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