Jackie Brett - Callback News

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘BAND OF MAGICIANS’ WILL OPEN AT TROPICANA LATE OCTOBER

Coming from a recent tour across Australia and New Zealand, the world’s first magic supergroup, “Band of Magicians” will take up residency at the Tropicana Las Vegas starting Oct. 26 and perform Wednesday through Monday at 7 p.m.

The production brings together four of the brightest young magicians from across the globe including James Galea of Australia, Stuart MacLeod from the UK, and Brett Loudermilk and Joel Ward of the United States. The quartet of magicians have been featured on “The Ellen Degeneres Show,” “TODAY,” “Access Hollywood,” “The Late Late Show,” and “Tosh.O.” Collectively they have had many viral hits on YouTube with their signature tricks racking up more than 50 million hits.

A SECOND LAZY DOG WILL OPEN AT TOWN SQUARE

Lazy Dog opened their first Las Vegas location in April 2015 at Downtown Summerlin and now they are hiring for the new 8,397-square-foot location scheduled to open at Town Square this fall. Founder Chris Simms’ concept was inspired by the genuine hospitality and laid-back atmosphere of the Rocky Mountain town where his family spent time. From Lazy Dog’s scratch kitchen to its well-crafted bar program, the restaurant focuses on hospitality and community to create a family friendly dining destination with a patio to include canine members.

The first Lazy Dog restaurant opened in the Huntington Beach area in 2003. Now there are currently 18 Lazy Dog locations throughout California and Texas with more on the way.

WITH A NEW NAME ‘AUSSIE HEAT’ PREVAILS AT V THEATER

Australian-based male revue “Aussie Heat,” formerly known as “Aussie Hunks,” has opened with the new name at the V Theater inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. The testosterone-energized show is comprised of eight classically trained dancers in street, break and hip-hop dancing. These sexy men have been seen on “Australia’s Got Talent” and “So You Think You Can Dance Australia.” They are celebrating a milestone one-year of performances while launching a new name reminiscent of the desert terrain they now call home. “Aussie Heat” shows are Wednesday through Sunday at 10:30 p.m. Tickets start at $54.99.

URBAN SEED IS BUILDING FARMING FACILITY NEAR THE STRIP

Sustainable indoor-farming company Urban Seed Inc. broke ground on a farming facility just west of the Strip that will include eight 6,400-square-foot greenhouses, offices, a production facility and an event space. The business is aiming to be the premier source of locally grown, high-quality hydroponic produced, non-GMO fruits and vegetables for the flourishing culinary community in Las Vegas.

Urban Seed will utilize vertical integration to reduce the carbon footprint of Las Vegas. Following the initial facility, Urban Seed will plan and design more than 100 additional facilities in the next five years with the goal of providing truly local produce to the entire valley and other markets.

HIGH ROLLER HOSTS FIRST IN-CABIN ETHEL M CHOCOLATES TASTING

The High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel, will launch North America’s first in-cabin chocolate tasting experience with Ethel M Chocolates on Thursday, Sept. 1. Guests will learn about the origins of chocolate and how the pieces were created and focus attention on the aroma, taste and texture. The 30-minute (one rotation) adventure includes a chocolatier ambassador showcasing five different types of pieces and the story behind them. Upon arrival, each guest will receive one voucher for a complimentary glass of wine, which can be picked up in the Sky Lounge prior to boarding.

This experience, which can accommodate up to 15 guests, may be booked in advance or by upgrading a general admission ticket for an extra $15. Tastings are available every Thursday from 5 to 8:30 p.m. with the final experience at 8 p.m. Standard admission pricing is $52 and a private cabin $1,500.

JERRY LEWIS STARS IN ‘MAX ROSE’ AND HEADLINES AT SOUTH POINT

Jerry Lewis at 90 is going strong. He will headline his one-man show at the South Point Showroom Sept. 30-Oct. 2. Tickets are $50, 55, and $60.

Prior to that engagement and after a 25-year absence from the big screen, the legendary comedian, actor, producer and director Jerry Lewis returns in his latest film “Max Rose.” The movie will open locally on Sept. 23 at the Regal Village Square Stadium at West Sahara.

“Max Rose” stars Lewis as an 87-year-old retired jazz musician whose wife recently passed away. Devastated by the loss after his 65-year marriage, Rose discovers his wife’s jewelry with an intimate inscription from another man, causing doubt about his marriage. The drama has Rose searching for the mysterious suitor.

STANDARD & POUR GASTRO LOUNGE IS OPEN IN HENDERSON

Standard & Pour, a joint venture created by Simon Hospitality Group and Titan Brands, is now open nightly for dinner at 11261 S. Eastern Ave, Suite 200. The 130-seat gastro lounge style restaurant features a panoramic view of the Las Vegas Strip in a social environment with a variety of shared plates and distinctive beverage program with a strong emphasis on handcrafted cocktails.

The decor is contemporary modern with accents of shou sugi ban charred wood, bold graphic floral wallpaper and fleur-de-lis-inspired tile. The 4,700-square-foot cozy restaurant offers a variety of dining options including a bar and lounge, main dining room complete with a live edge wood communal table, private dining party options and outdoor patio dining.

COMEDIC GURU ‘TOMMY LAMA’ CONTINUES AT LAUGH FACTORY

Comedian Tommy Savitt has a gimmick that works. He’s created an alter ego “Tommy Lama.” While his rather unorthodox “Spiritual Healing Brooklyn Style” may not make you well, it does provide plenty of laughs at the Laugh Factory Comedy Club inside the Tropicana. His “Stand-Up Karmady” shows are at 5 p.m. Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and 7 p.m. Monday and Friday. Tickets are $29.95 to $34.95.

Savitt actually quit practicing law to become a comedian and with originality a nearly outlawed “guru” of “see all, know all, and heal all problems.” On stage he’ll channel the dead, offer outlandish couple’s therapy, and pass along innuendo-laden mantras. Here is a good example of his advice, “All the doctors tell ladies to quit drinking when they become pregnant to protect the baby…I say why? How in the heck do you think you became pregnant in the first place?”

SMASH MOUTH WILL PERFORM FREE FREMONT STREET CONCERT

Smash Mouth will perform a free concert at the Fremont Street Experience over Labor Day Weekend closing out this year’s Rock of Vegas concert series on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 9 p.m. on the 3rd Street Stage. Smash Mouth is touring with their new album “Magic” and entertaining troops in Japan, Guam, Guantanamo Bay, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Formed in late 1994, Smash Mouth began recording demos and showcasing in both San Jose and Hollywood, Calif. The free concerts downtown are celebrating the eighth season.

LIMITED-TIME, FIRST OFFICER’S ITEMS AT LUXOR’S TITANIC EXHIBIT

In commemoration of the 31st anniversary of the discovery of RMS Titanic’s wreck site, six personal possessions belonging to First Officer William Murdoch will be on display for a limited time at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition inside the Luxor starting Sept. 1 through October before heading to the Orlando Exhibition. The artifacts were only available for public viewing once in 2012.

Murdoch’s recovered belongings include a toiletry kit, which contained a shoe brush, an official White Star Line officer’s button, a straight razor, a pair of long-johns and a smoking pipe.

CHANGES TAKING PLACE AT WINDOWS SHOWROOM AT BALLY’S

After three years, “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” with a cast of 18 will be closing at the Windows Showroom at Bally’s on Sept. 21. The interactive dining show has played in various Las Vegas venues since 2002 and may likely land somewhere again.

It’s looking like The Bronx Wanderers, a retro rock ‘n’ roll tribute show band, will take over the 5 p.m. time slot.

Wayne Newton will return next month after a break and perform his intimate show three nights a week, Monday-Wednesday. On the other nights, the 7:30 p.m. time slot will go to a Motown tribute show, “Solid Gold Soul,” starting Sept. 29.

“Tony Sacca’s Vegas The Story” will open on Friday, Sept.23 starring the longtime local TV personality and showman performing an afternoon show at 2 p.m.

CLINT HOLMES SHOW AT PALAZZO HAD SURPRISE GUEST DAV KOZ

Thanks to a friend this reporter had an opportunity to catch “Clint Holmes: Between the Lines” in the Palazzo Theatre. Once again Holmes delivers an extraordinary show and his band is truly the best in the business. It’s no wonder that legendary saxophonist Dave Koz joined Holmes on stage for a surprise performance. With his longtime friend and collaborator they performed two soulful songs resulting in a spontaneous standing ovation, which is common place at any show Holmes does.

JIMMY OSMOND BRINGS ANDY WILLIAMS TRIBUTE SPECIAL TO SUNCOAST

Jimmy Osmond will bring his tribute special “Andy Williams – Moon River and Me!” with nostalgic videos and Williams’ chart-topping hits like “Moon River” to the Suncoast Showroom Sept. 17 and 18 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $17.50.
Osmond had a special relationship with Williams. Starting in entertainment with his brothers, the Osmonds made their first national TV appearance on “The Andy Williams Show” in the 1960s. They became show regulars and Williams became a lifelong friend and mentor to Jimmy Osmond.

Williams performed the Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer-penned hit song “Moon River” at the 1962 Oscar Awards. After that “Moon River” became the theme song for his hit variety show, which garnered three Emmy Awards.

MOB MUSEUM WILL OPEN OUTLAW MOTORCYCLE GANGS DISPLAY

The Mob Museum downtown will open a new display Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs on Friday, Sept. 2 and will be on view until February 2017. The exhibition explores the small percentage of motorcycle riders engaging in drug and/or firearms trafficking, theft, extortion and other forms of organized crime. It examines the global reach of the gangs, the histories and current practices of some of the largest groups such as the Hells Angels, the Bandidos and the Outlaws as well as some of the infamous gang battles, including the 2015 shootout in a restaurant parking lot in Waco, Texas.

HENDERSON HOSTS ANNUAL PACIFIC ISLANDS FESTIVAL

The 26th Annual Prince Jonah Kuhio Ho’olaule’a & Pacific Islands Festival will be held at the Henderson Events Plaza from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 10 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11. Admission is complimentary.

Founded and organized by the Las Vegas Hawaiian Civic Club (LVHCC), the event serves Southern Nevada’s growing Pacific Islander population and honors the rich heritage and culture of the Pacific Rim and Hawaiian Islands. The celebration features hours of traditional island entertainment, including Polynesian dancers and Hawaiian hula dancing, food, folk art performances, merchandise vendors, craft booths and children’s activities. Other highlights include a car show and an indoor career, business and health fair.

SPEED LANE NEWS

Gregg Allman had to cancel some of his tour dates, including his stop at The Pearl at the Palms on Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. with ZZ Top. He will be replaced by guitar great Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Tickets start at $94.

Billy Idol with his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens will return to the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay on Wednesday, Aug. 31 to close out summer with 11 more dates coming up in the next two months. He will be followed on Thursday, Sept. 14 by fellow resident Carlos Santana, who will return in time for El Grito.

Legendary rock groups 38 Special and The Marshall Tucker Band will headline the Sunset Amphitheater at Sunset Station on Friday, Sept. 9. Tickets range from $20 to $50.

At Boulder Station in The Railhead, guitarist Eric Sardinas will be featured on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. His latest album, “Boomerang,” was released in 2014. Tex-Mex group Los Lonely Boys will follow on Saturday, Sept. 3 with an 8 p.m. show.

Rock band Breaking Benjamin unveiled its dedicated memorabilia case at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino last week.

Having performed on the Las Vegas Strip for more than 16 years, Blue Man Group celebrated their milestone 10,000th show with a special performance recently benefitting local nonprofit HELP of Southern Nevada by raising more than $7,800.

In addition, Blue Man Group will be holding a Las Vegas Drum-Off at Downtown Container Park on Saturday, Oct.22. Drummers will be vying to win more than $6,000 in prizes. Stay tuned for submission details or email info@blueman.com.

A Hawaii visitor recently placed a $3 bet on a penny slot game at Wynn and won $10.7-plus million. The player won on an IGT Megabucks Wynn Wheel machine built specifically for Wynn Las Vegas.

DINING-BEVERAGE HAPPENINGS

In Japanese culture, sushi is a great art. Roy’s restaurant chefs will hold a one day Make Your Own Sushi hands-on class on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $55, which includes a three-course cooking class luncheon, sushi kit and $20 dining card for a future visit. Reservation is necessary.

For Labor Day weekend, La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn will keep festivities going by extending its butler-style brunch Saturday-Monday, Sept. 3-5 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Priced is $48 and $28 per child under 12. For an additional $20, La Cave offers bottomless brunch cocktails.

BRAVO! Cucina Italiana at the Galleria mall has introduced a new dinner special offering a two-course dinner combo featuring choice of a salad and entrée starting at $12.99. The new combos include entrées from BRAVO!’s new menu, which focuses on larger portions and high-quality ingredients. The special runs until Sept. 30.

New Bold Sips in five flavors will be available at both the Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip and Hard Rock Cafe at Hard Rock Hotel from Monday, Aug. 29 through Sunday, Nov. 13 and include: Mango Tequila Sunrise; Peachy Keen Punch; Spiced Cinnamon Mule; Blackberry Peach Bramble; and Rush On The Rocks. Each cocktail comes in a Hard Rock Cafe souvenir Mason jar for $14.99 with refills $10.49.

Slice of Vegas at The Shoppes at Mandalay Place is teaming up with Pizza Port Brewing Co. and Speakeasy Ales & Lagers out of California to host a special beer pairing five-course dinner on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $45, RSVP at beerdinner@sliceofvegaspizza.com.

Honey Salt will feature nationally-acclaimed Las Vegas chef Sheridan Su, Executive Chef/Owner of Fat Choy and Flock & Fowl for its Guest Chef Dinner Series on Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. This Asian-influenced communal dining experience is $54 with an optional wine pairing for $25.

Modern Donut, a Las Vegas-based, personalized donut delivery service, and Three Square Food Bank are partnering in September to fight hunger during Hunger Action Month. Modern Donut will donate $1 to Three Square from every online order, or call 702-220-3030.

MRKT Sea & Land at Aliante is bringing back by popular demand the steak and lobster special offered Sunday through Thursday for $25. This special is available to Aliante Player’s Club members only.

LOS TIGRES DEL NORTE WILL PERFORM IN PRIMM

The 12-time Grammy Award winning band Los Tigres del Norte will appear in concert at the Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nev., on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $30.
Los Tigres del Norte is one of the most popular bands in the diverse world of Latin music. Over the past four decades, Los Tigres have recorded more than 500 songs, 50 of which have been No. 1 singles. The group has also sold more than 37 million albums worldwide with 22 ranking No. 1 on the Billboard Latin charts. Among the group’s numerous awards, there are six Grammys and six Latin Grammys, the Latin Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and The Hispanic Heritage “Legends” award at The Kennedy Center.

COMEDIANS AND SINGERS ENTERTAIN IN PAHRUMP, NEV.

There is even more entertainment an hour’s drive away in Pahrump, Nev. The Bonkerz Comedy Club inside the Pahrump Nugget Event Center will present comedian Ian Gutoskie on Friday Sept. 9 and Kathleen Dunbar on Friday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 with a $5 slot play included.

At the Sanders Family Winery the Summer Under the Stars Concert Series will come to an end with two great tribute shows featuring Corrie Sachs as Reba McEntire on Saturday, Sept. 10 and The Bluzman, a tribute to the Blues Brothers on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25, call 775-727-1776.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Sept. 4, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

SURF’S UP AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

The Strip’s first FlowRider Wave-in-a-Box Double is now open at Planet Hollywood at the south end of the pool deck with its own FlowBar for professional wave riders as well as novices who can start on bodyboards. The FlowRider is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Guests must be at least 42” inches to Boogie Board and 48” to Surf The Strip. The cost is $25 per person per 30-minute session and scheduling is based upon availability.

ZOWIE BOWIE STARRING CHRIS PHILLIPS RETURNS TO THE RED ROCK

Zowie Bowie starring Chris Phillips has returned to Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort, the band’s Las Vegas home for more than 10 years. Zowie Bowie is performing today’s hottest dance music, Top-40 hits and hip hop every Friday with doors opening at 10 p.m. Cover is $10 at the door. Boarding Pass card members receive a $5 entry discount, with Boarding Pass sign-ups available at the door.

Zowie Bowie features the musical talents of lead singer Chris Phillips, vocalist Nieve Malandra, who joined the group in 2011, and a high-voltage band. Co-founded by Phillips, who has more than 20 years of performing experience under his belt, in Arizona in 2002, Zowie Bowie has become one of Las Vegas’ most popular acts.

THE PALM RESTAURANT RE-OPENS FOLLOWING REMODEL

On Sept. 7, The Palm Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will open following a summer-long, all-encompassing restaurant remodel. The space will reveal modern enhancements, 50 new additions to the famous celebrity caricature collage, an expansive wall-to-wall mural and fresh new dishes.

New art installations adorning the walls were hand painted by the restaurant group’s resident artist Zack Bird. To capture the history of Las Vegas, Bird created a custom 512-square-foot, hand-painted mural of The Las Vegas Strip, showcasing the evolution of Vegas from past to present. Dating back to the 1920s when the restaurant first opened, the caricatures have become synonymous with The Palm brand.

NACHO DADDY EXPANDS WITH LOCATION AT MIRACLE MILE SHOPS

Locally owned and operated, Nacho Daddy Mexican restaurant’s newest location is at Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. This venue is 6,000 square feet with 32-foot ceilings and seating for approximately 230 people. It features big screen televisions, a private dining room, open kitchen and a mezzanine overlooking the busy Harmon Avenue. The Strip location opens at 8 a.m. daily and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night.

JABURRITOS WILL OPEN FIRST STRIP LOCATION AT LINQ PROMENADE

Jaburritos, Las Vegas’ original sushi burrito concept that opened in October 2015, will open a new location at The LINQ Promenade in December 2016. Jaburritos serves made-to-order, sushi burritos stuffed with Japanese and Mexican inspired ingredients and flavors. Menu items can be made to fit almost every diet with paleo, low-carb, vegan and vegetarian options available and owner Ken Aoki pledges to use sustainable sources of food, recycled packaging and eco-friendly furniture and equipment wherever possible.

MARTIN LAWRENCE AND BOB DYLAN ADDED TO THE CHELSEA LINEUP

Martin Lawrence will appear at The Cosmopolitan Friday, Oct. 7. During the 1990s, comedian and actor Lawrence rose to fame starring in his own series “Martin,” which aired on Fox for five years, and in blockbuster films including “Big Momma’s House,” “Bad Boys” and “Blue Streak.” His Showtime special “Martin Lawrence Doin’ Time: Uncut” will air on Sept. 9 at 9 p.m. EST/PST and mark his third concert film in 15 years. Tickets start at $45.

Folk rock singer and songwriter Bob Dylan will headline The Chelsea on Thursday, Oct. 13. Showing no signs of slowing down, Dylan has continued to tour in recent years, while releasing studio albums including “Together Through Life” in 2009 and “Tempest” in 2012. Tickets start at $49.

GEORGE BUGATTI’S ‘PORTRAITS OF AMERICA’ DEBUTS AT SMITH CENTER

Singer, pianist and songwriter George Bugatti will present “Portraits of America,” featuring a multimedia show and songs spotlighting many of the country’s great cities. Bugatti will kick off his 24-city tour, debuting “Portraits of America” at Cabaret Jazz at The Smith Center on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. The Las Vegas show will feature special guests such as “The Marty Allen Show” co-star, Karon Kate Blackwell; Sam Arlen, son of “Wizard of Oz” Composer Harold Arlen; and Nelsen Sardelli, long-time Vegas entertainer and film star. Tickets range from $39–$45.

HUNTRIDGE SHOPPING CENTER HOLDS SIGN LIGHTING CEREMONY

The Huntridge Shopping Center at Maryland Parkway and Charleston Blvd. is being redeveloped by homegrown real estate broker and developer J Dapper, who purchased the center last fall for $5.2 million. A sign lighting event on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 6-10 p.m. will illuminate a new sign for the Huntridge Shopping Center at 7:30 p.m. and announcement new retailers moving into the area. There will be live music, food trucks and appearances by special guests.

LAS VEGAS HARVEST FESTIVAL® IS THREE DAYS AT CASHMAN CENTER

It’s time for the annual Las Vegas Harvest Festival® Original Art and Craft Show at Cashman Center Sept. 9-11 with more than 250 exhibitors showcasing over 24,000 American handmade arts and crafts, including jewelry, woodturnings, art and photography, specialty foods, clothing, décor and more. While shopping, attendees can enjoy entertainment acts, live music, prize drawings, artist demonstrations and food. Show opens daily at 10 a.m. Admission is $9 general, $7 seniors 62+ and military, $4 for kids 13-17. There are $2 off coupons and discount when you donate a can of food, formula or paper products for Safe Nest.

‘CHERRY BOOM BOOM’ OPENS AT TROPICANA WITH TICKET SPECIALS

“Cherry Boom Boom” will open at the Tropicana Las Vegas on Thursday, Sept. 8 with previews running through Wednesday, Sept. 28. Shows are nightly except Tuesday at 9 p.m. This immersive new show is promoted as the ultimate playground for sex, music, love and rock-n-roll with fresh, new amplified choreography. For the preview shows, first responders and military personnel are offered a two-for-one ticket special. Additional ticket offers include Cherry Deals for Locals (2 for 1 tickets) and Women Crush Wednesdays, featuring $20 off tickets. All shows begin at 9 p.m. and tickets start at $59.

DOWNTOWN HOLDS BEER FESTIVALS

The Golden Nugget will hold its 7th annual Beerfest weekend Sept. 17-18. The two-day event will include samplings of award-winning breweries paired with beer-inspired bites. The All American Craft Beer Tasting will be Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Grand Event Center with more than 125 selections. Cost $54 in advance and $59 at the door. Sunday will be the Oktoberfest Pool Party at 1 p.m. Entry is complimentary and event is open to the public. Beer will be available for purchase.

Motley Brews’ Downtown Brew Festival (DBF) will return to the Clark County Amphitheater for its fifth anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 5 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. for Early Entry and VIP ticketholders. This event will highlight more than 200 of the world’s top craft brews from over 60 breweries, “Festaurant Row” with a diverse lineup of culinary creations by Las Vegas’ top restaurants and food trucks, and nonstop music and entertainment. Tickets are $35 for General Admission, $45 for Early Entry and $70 for VIP until Friday, Sept. 16.

Rí Rá HOSTS HALfWAY TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY

On Saturday, Sept. 17, Rí Rá Las Vegas will celebrate Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day with a celebration featuring drink specials, giveaways, live Irish music from The Black Donnellys and a special Irish-inspired menu benefiting HELP of Southern Nevada. During the event, Rí Rá will offer $5 Guinness® drafts and Guinness® foreign extra stouts from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The pub will also give away engraved Guinness® glasses to the first 50 guests who order a beer from the pub’s Victorian bar. Located next door, the Guinness® Store will offer customers 15 percent off all in-store purchases totaling more than $20.

SEPTEMBER FEATURES ITALIAN AND GREEK FESTIVALS

The 37th Annual San Gennaro Feast will take place Sept. 14-18 inside Craig Ranch Regional Park. The food and music festival celebrates features more than 70 restaurant food booths, 60 amusement rides, petting zoo, pony rides, midway games, arts and crafts booths, and continuous live music. Entertainment coordinator and singer Tony Sacca will host and feature some of Las Vegas’ finest entertainers and bands and also headline nightly. Admission is $10 for adults and parking is free. Rides are POP - Pay One Price to ride all rides endlessly for $25 and $30 on the weekend.

The 44th Annual Las Vegas Greek Festival will take place Sept.16-18 at the St. John Greek Orthodox Church and feature 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.

In conjunction with the Greek Food Festival, there will be a 26.2 mile Torch Relay Run to raise money for Goodwill of Southern Nevada and The Fisher House Foundation. The run will begin with a torch lighting ceremony at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 16 at the Tivoli Village. The torch will be carried along the selected police escorted route by runners who obtained monetary pledges and arrive at the festival at about 7 p.m. to light the Festival Flame. Run participants will receive a commemorative T-Shirt and complimentary dinner at the festival.

NEVADA BALLET THEATRE HONORS VANESSA WILLIAMS

Singer, actress, author and fashion designer, Vanessa Williams, will serve as Woman of the Year for Nevada Ballet Theatre’s (NBT) 33rd Annual Black & White Ball. She will be honored for her wavering philanthropy to numerous charitable causes on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at ARIA, as part of the 45-year-old ballet company’s largest annual fundraiser and one of the city’s most highly-anticipated social events.

FORUM SHOPS AT CAESARS PALACE HOSTS EL GRITO CELEBRATION

In partnership with “InVEGAS Magazine,” The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will ring in El Grito for the Mexican Independence Day weekend celebration. On Thursday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m., The Forum Shops will host the official public opening ceremony to kick off the festivities with a celebratory ringing of the bell by a member of the Mexican Consul along with a Mariachi band and traditional folkloric dancers. In addition, strolling mariachis and informal modeling featuring Mulberry, DKNY and Canali will take place throughout the weekend.

More than 60 distinctive retailers and restaurants within The Forum Shops will present special offerings to guests who check-in at the InVEGAS/El Grito hospitality and welcome desks and pick up an INVEGAS wristband.

BODYBUILDING LEGENDS WILL COMPETE AT ORLEANS ARENA

Joe Weider’s IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuilders Professional League) Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend will return to the Orleans Arena Sept. 15-17.

For the 11th consecutive year, the annual sanctioned bodybuilding Mr. Olympia competition will take center stage with athletes competing in eight separate divisions. Reserved seating for Friday and Saturday night events range from $75 to $330 at the Orleans Box Office.
On Thursday, Sept. 15, fans can meet the superstars at Meet the Olympians on the Concourse Level at the Orleans Arena. VIP ticket holders and Platinum Members will be granted early entry at 7 p.m. The event is open to the general public free of charge at 8 p.m.

SIX-STRING SOLDIERS WILL OPEN TWO JOHN FOGERTY CONCERTS

Six-String Soldiers, a four-member ensemble of The United States Army Field Band, will take the stage at the “John Fogerty - Fortunate Son in Concert,” Sept. 14 and 16 at The Venetian®. The acclaimed quartet’s performances will coincide with National POW/MIA Recognition Day on Sept. 16, which honors prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action. Legendary singer, songwriter and guitarist Fogerty returns to The Venetian Theatre for a nine-show engagement, Sept. 14-Oct. 1. Tickets start at $59.50.

QUICK NEWS ITEMS

Open rehearsals for Cirque du Soleil’s “Mystère” at Tresasure Island are being offered exclusively on Saturdays inside the Mystère Theatre from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Guests attending receive an exclusive offer—two tickets for $99—by presenting a special voucher at the box office. All ages are welcome. For information, call 702-894-7722.

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is launching brand-new Hoover Dam-area tours and opening the company’s seventh heliport next to the Hoover Dam Lodge. With the new heliport, Papillon now flies guests closer to the dam than any other tour operator.

Amorino, known for its flower-shaped cone, opened its new gelato store at The LINQ Promenade. The 1,500-square-foot 50-person upscale venue with a fireplace, sofas and other luxurious seating is the second location in Las Vegas and 150th store worldwide.

Saturday, Sept.10 will be the the final event in this year’s Plugged-In Mandalay Bay Beach Summer Concert Series, which will be Lost 80s Live featuring Flock of Seagulls, Wang Chung. Cutting Crew, and Berlin. Tickets are $50 and include a selection of more than 20 wines from a VIP perch in Moorea Beach Club and admission to the show.

Lena Prima, Louis Prima’s musical daughter, will perform at the Italian American Club on East Sahara on Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and $35, call 702-457-3866.

Thousands of fitness and pole dance enthusiasts will participate in the fifth annual Pole Expo taking place at the Hard Rock Sept.7-11. There will be nightly events. Single day passes start at $79, weekend $185 with nightly events included, which are also sold separately.

Beginning Sept. 5, Carnevino Italian Steakhouse at The Palazzo will launch The Martini Lunch. Priced at $65 per person, the meal includes two martinis, plus three courses, all of which can be served within an hour starting at noon.

A wine class with a series of guided tastings will be held at Pinot’s Palette at Boca Park on Wednesday, Sept.14 from 6-8 p.m. Session is $65, call 702-895-3394 to register.

The Mob Museum downtown is holding an author talk with Christian Cipollini on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 7-9 p.m. He wrote “Murder, Inc.: Mysteries of the Mob’s Most Deadly Hit Squad” and will discuss notorious backstories involving Murder, Inc. He will sign copies of his book after his presentation and also from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, in the Museum’s retail store.

Saturday, Sept. 17, from 1–5 p.m. inside the museums retail store, author and Associate Professor of Bassoon at UNLV, Janis L. McKay will sign copies of her latest book, “The Rise and Fall of Casino Bands,” charting the life and history of music found on the Strip.

The last play of the season for the evening outdoor Super Summer Theater at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park will be the musical “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” Sept. 8-10, 15-17, and 22-24 at 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $12.95 for Thursday and $15.95 for Friday-Saturday and $20 at the Gate, visit www.showtix4u.com.

Fremont Street Experience will be hosting a SlotZilla Charity Challenge to benefit Three Square Food Bank on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 1 to 7 p.m.

Breaking Benjamin was honored with a memorabilia case at Hard Rock Hotel in August. The hallway display showcases: Shaun Foist’s drum heads, sticks and cymbal; Benjamin Burnley’s black jacket, wrist bands and picks; Keith Wallen’s boots and prescription glasses; Jasen Rauch’s red flannel shirt; and Burnley’s guitar that was used to throw 30 feet across the stage during the band’s last performance at The Joint on Oct. 22, 2015.

The exclusive Lafont Trunk Show will be held at an open house on Tuesday, Sept. 12 from 6-8 p.m. at Eyes & Optics at Downtown Summerlin. You can meet Dr. Edward J. Jalik, enjoy complimentary wine and food, and music.

FOOD TRUCK DRAGON GRILLE NEEDS YOUR VOTE

One of the biggest food trends is the rising popularity of food trucks. Local award winning Dragon Grille is one of 50 food trucks in the national spotlight during a cross-country recipe competition to create America’s best breakfast recipe. As part of the Thomas’ Breakfast Battle, Dragon Grille will utilize Thomas’ English Muffins and Bagels to create the ultimate breakfast recipe inspired by the cuisine of their food truck. Beginning Sept. 12, fans will have one week to vote online at ThomasBreakfastBattle.com to ensure Dragon Grille makes the next round of competition that narrows the pool to 25.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘AMERICA’S GOT TALENT LIVE’ WILL VISIT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

The winner of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” now in its 11th season and other finalists will be headlining an exclusive stage show engagement of “America’s Got Talent Live” in Las Vegas Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 27-29 in the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood. Winning the starring role in the show is in addition a million dollar cash prize. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, Sept. 14 and range in price from $55 to $185.

LUCKY DRAGON SET TO OPEN DEC. 3

The Chinese-themed Lucky Dragon on Sahara just off the Strip will have its grand opening Saturday, Dec. 3 and will begin taking reservations Saturday, Oct. 1 on the resort’s website. The Lucky Dragon is the first hotel and casino on or near the Strip to be built from the ground up since the Cosmopolitan in 2010.

The three-acre property will have 200 hotel rooms and a 27,000-square-foot casino with three-quarters of it dedicated to baccarat and pai gow tables. There will a second floor high-end gaming area overlooking the main casino floor with VIP rooms next to it.

The entire experience is being built with traditional Asian style in mind. The bar near the pool will focus on tea, as opposed to cocktails and even have a tea sommelier.

The hotel’s red glass windows will shine a red tint into each room. Red is considered a lucky color to some Asian cultures.

THE VENETIAN WILL PRESENT ‘AN EVENING WITH AL PACINO’

Actor, screenwriter, producer and director Al Pacino will bring “An Evening with Al Pacino” exploring a myriad of highlights from his stage and screen career to the Opaline Theatre inside The Venetian® on Saturday, Oct. 15. This special event will include a question-and-answer session. Pacino has starred in more than 40 films including “Scent of a Woman” for which he won an Oscar in 1992. He is one of the rare winners of acting’s triple crown: the Oscar, Tony and Emmy Award, and a National Medal of Arts for 2011 from President Obama. Tickets start at $72.45.

THREE NEW TENANTS JOIN HISTORIC HUNTRIDGE REDEVELOPMENT

Dapper Companies announced the three new tenants signing on as part of his redevelopment of the historic Huntridge downtown neighborhood. Last November, Dapper invested more than $6 million to buy three key commercial real estate properties near the intersection of Charleston Boulevard and Maryland Parkway.
Cory Harwell, owner of downtown’s Carson Kitchen and the new Standard & Pour in Henderson, will open a yet-unnamed restaurant at 602 S. Maryland Parkway, at the site of the former Mahoney’s Drum Shop.

Wingstop, a national chain restaurant offering chicken wings, will open at the Huntridge Center.
Furniture company Henricksen Butler will move from The Holsum Lofts to 630 S. 11th Street, the former home of the Gamblers Book Club.

A public Huntridge Center sign-lighting ceremony called “Light Up The Night” will be held Thursday, Sept. 15 from 6-8 p.m. with the lighting at 7:30 p.m.

COMEDIAN DANA CARVEY RETURNS TO THE ORLEANS SHOWROOM

“Saturday Night Live” alumni and celebrated comedian Dana Carvey will perform at The Orleans Showroom Sept. 23 and 24 at 8 p.m. Tickets start from $54.95.
Carvey most recently appeared on “Conan” where he performed impersonations of Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders. He also wrapped up the first season of his new USA Network game show “First Impressions.” In the show, Carvey and co-host Freddie Prinze Jr. feature weekly competitions between America’s best emerging impressionists and special celebrity guests.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR ‘MAGIC MIKE’ AT HARD ROCK

Superstar Channing Tatum and some of the dancers announced on the Season 14 premiere of “Ellen” that tickets are now on sale for “Magic Mike Live Las Vegas,” which opens at the Hard Rock Hotel on March 30. The show will recreate the mythic Club Domina as a cabaret nightclub space inside the resort to capture the Magic Mike franchise featuring 13 sexy male performers.

“Magic Mike Live Las Vegas” will be performed Wednesdays through Sundays at 7:30 and 10 p.m. Ticket start at $49. A $40 VIP add-on includes a meet-and-greet with the cast and a souvenir photo.

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL FESTIVAL IS TOTAL CULTURAL EXPOSURE

Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival launched in October 2013 is now an annual celebration held Downtown where people from all walks of life come together and create an experience centered in music, art, taste and ideas. Festival three-day tickets for Sept. 23-25 are: General Admission $285 and VIP $655.

For the first time, the festival has partnered with M Modern Gallery to present a three-day “Crime on Canvas” exhibition inside The Western Hotel and Casino. Ticketholders will have the exclusive opportunity to view and purchase original works and rare prints by more than 80 esteemed local, national and international artists. More than 90 percent of the pieces will be new original works created specifically for the festival and with the theme being dark and eerie.

Another first is the addition of THE KINDHOUSE, offering a daily standup comedy lineup inside Place on 7th.

There will be a newly designed IDEAS Series, featuring live discussions and interactive Q&A sessions with globally-recognized leaders who impact the world through transformation, innovation and passion. Headlining this year’s IDEAS Series is television personality, model, author and drag queen, RuPaul, who will appear on the Troubadour Stage on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 4 p.m. This series will highlight three different daily themes: Self Transformation; Local Transformation: and Global Transformation.

Brittany Rose competed against 15 local bands and won a coveted spot on the Life is Beautiful 2016 entertainment lineup. Rose is a soul and R&B artist who performs with a seven-piece band and she will be joining music legends on the Life is Beautiful stage, including Mumford & Sons, J. Cole, Major Lazer, The Lumineers, G-Eazy, Flume, Jane’s Addiction and dozens more.

CRAFTHAUS BREWERY CELEBRATES SECOND ANNIVERSARY

CraftHaus Brewery in Henderson will celebrate its second year of craft beer with a Hop Bomb Party on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 5-11 p.m. with three local bands, food trucks and beer. Over the past year, CraftHaus has offered 46 different beers and added 40 barrels or 1,200 gallons to their current 110 barrels of fermentation. Tickets are $25 pre-sale, $32 at the door, $12 designated driver, and $55 VIP with a commemorative 16-ounce glass and six, four-ounce drink tickets.

MOTOR SPEEDWAY HOSTS FAMILY-FRIENDLY ‘350 FEST’

The Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS) will host “350 Fest,” which is a free day of activities followed by the DC Solar 350 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, on Saturday, Oct. 1. Some of the big highlights will include: a kids zone and petting zoo featuring exotic animals; the second LVMS Show & Shine car show to benefit Speedway Children’s Charities; and a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver autograph session. A beer garden, food trucks, pet adoptions by The Animal Foundation, a poker run, raffles, vendor booths, giveaways and entertainment will also be part of the daytime activities, which are free.
Later that evening, the biggest stars of the NASCAR Truck Series will take to the 1.5-mile superspeedway for the 20th running of the DC Solar 350. Children 12 and under will receive free admission to the race with a paying adult.

The LVMS will hold the Red Bull Air Race World Championship Oct. 15-16 and the NHRA Toyota Nationals Oct. 27-30.

In addition, United States Sen. Dean Heller, a former competitor at The Bullring at LVMS, is giving back to his racing roots by sponsoring the Oct. 22 Fall Classic, which will be called the Senator’s Cup Fall Classic.

NEWS ON THE RUN

The Atrium is a high-end multi-brand retail concept that will open at The Venetian and The Palazzo this fall. For Hudson Group, the largest travel retailer in North America operating more 330 specialty retail locations, this will be the first time the company has launched a luxury retail concept in a hotel setting.

Last week, Uber officially launched UberEATS in Las Vegas. The new UberEATS app offers a service that delivers food to your door from local restaurants.

The Yard inside the new Topgolf® will start featuring entertainment. Hip-hop blues trio G. Love & Special Sauce will perform on Wednesday, Sept. 14 with tickets starting at $30. Legendary reggae group The Original Wailers will groove on Friday, Oct. 28 with tickets starting at $20. Both shows begin at 8 p.m.

The Mob Museum downtown opened its newest temporary exhibit “Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs” in the area dedicated to current events in organized crime and law enforcement. The exhibition running until next February explores the small percentage of motorcycle riders engaging in drug and/or firearms trafficking, theft, extortion and other forms of organized crime.

During the month of September, the High Roller is honoring all educators and first responders by offering free admission.

B&B Burger & Beer at The Venetian is opening early at 10 a.m. every Sunday during NFL football season and setting all televisions to the games.

BLUE MAN GROUP HOSTS FIRST DRUM-OFF COMPETITION

Blue Man Group Las Vegas is holding its first Drum-Off competition to find the city’s most talented drummers. Video submissions are now open for both the Drum-Off (ages 13 and over) and the exhibition category (ages 12 and under) at blueman.com/vegasdrumoff. Audition videos must be submitted by Friday, Sept. 30 at 11:59 p.m. Final round takes place Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at Downtown Container Park with a judging panel including drummer Ronnie Vannucci of The Killers.

Ultimately, one drummer will be crowned the Vegas Drum-Off champion and take home a prize package valued at more than $6,000.

TIM CANTOR ART EXHIBIT AT AFA RUNS THROUGH OCTOBER

Renowned surrealist painter Tim Cantor will be the guest of honor at a public reception from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1 to celebrate the exhibition of his new works taking place simultaneously in AFA showrooms in New York and Las Vegas in the Fashion Show. Cantor’s Sweet Favour & Fiend exhibit running through Oct. 31 features original paintings, concept paintings, chiarographs, and limited edition prints on canvas.

This marks Cantor’s inaugural show at AFA and in Las Vegas. His work caught the eye of art aficionado and star of HISTORY’s “Pawn Stars,” Rick Harrison, who, with his partner, Las Vegas art expert Chad Sampson, are excited to introduce Las Vegas to this amazing talent.

Cantor began painting with oil at age 5 and at 15 one of his oil paintings was acquired for the permanent collection of the White House. He is recognized for his work with the popular rock band Imagine Dragons, with whom he has been on tour recently and some members will be at the reception.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Party in The Park on Sept. 13 will begin its weekly outdoor celebration every Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. at The Park, the new outdoor dining and entertainment district steps away from T-Mobile Arena. People are invited to enjoy dancing to live music and $5 shots. Participating restaurants include Beerhaus, Sake Rok and California Pizza Kitchen.

The annual Sunny 106.5 Ice Cream Sunday will again offer free ice cream on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Huckleberry Park in the Providence Master Planned Community. The free event will include many family activities. Attendees are invited to bring new or gently used books for Spread the Word Nevada.

BikeFest, one of the biggest motorcycle events of the year, is welcomed by the Fremont Street Experience with a festive street party, BikeFest RockFest, which is jam-packed with rock ‘n’ roll entertainment, Sept. 29-Oct. 2.

The eighth annual Oktoberfest celebration will be held downtown at Centennial Plaza on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 3 to 9 p.m. at 401 S. Fourth St. on the campus of the Historic Fifth Street School. The free public outdoor event with traditional German food, beer, music and dance will have refreshments available for sale.

The family-friendly Pigs for the Kids second fundraiser supporting childhood cancer charities will take place at Craig Ranch Regional Park on Saturday, Sept. 17 from noon to 9 p.m. and feature a spirited barbecue competition, live bands, ice cold beer, wine, and more. General admission tickets are $10 and include one Piggy Buck, children 12 and younger are free, and VIPig Passes are $150.

Triple George Grill and Wine & Canvas will host Cocktails & Canvas for a Cause on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 1-4 p.m. The fundraiser at Triple George Grill downtown will benefit Susan G. Komen Nevada and kick-off Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Tickets are $40 through Wine & Canvas and include painting supplies, instruction, and a glass of pink champagne.
For the first time in more than a decade, “The Moving Wall,” a half-scale replica of Washington D.C.’s well-known Vietnam War Memorial, will make an appearance at Simkins Park in Pahrump, Nev., an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, during the Fall Festival, Sept. 22-25. The festival will include: food offerings, a midway, vendors, live entertainment, amusement rides, a rodeo and a parade on Saturday on Highway 160.

DINING TIDBITS

TREVI Italian Restaurant in The Forum Shops at Caesars will celebrate National Pizza Month in October by offering a Chef’s Featured Pizza changing daily for $10 each from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily throughout the month.

Beerhaus within MGM Resorts’ outdoor entertainment district will transform into Oktoberfest at The Park Sept. 30–Oct. 2 with dancing, eating and partying ala Bavarian fall tradition beginning at 4 p.m. each day. Nightly festivities will kick off with a celebrity keg tapping, followed by live music from The Dummkopfs.

CRUSH at the MGM Grand will celebrate Oktoberfest from Saturday, Sept. 17 through Monday, Oct. 3 by featuring grilled bratwurst and sauerkraut, new potatoes and locally-brewed Sin City Light beer for $16.

Two restaurants are celebrating Mexican Independence Day and National Guacamole Day on Friday, Sept. 16. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin will celebrate with a sharable specialty Sweet with Heat Guacamole. Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood with a guacamole trio for $15.95.

Pancho’s will also celebrate National Taco Day on Tuesday, Oct. 4 by offering give guests something to taco ‘bout with $2.50 taco specials from 5-9 p.m.

Beer Park at Paris will recognize National Cheeseburger Day on Sept. 18 with Beer Park’s Cheeseburger.

Triple George Grill will debut a new special menu celebrating “Beautiful – The Carole King Musical” run at The Smith Center just blocks away from Sept. 20-Oct. 2. A la carte menu selections will be named after King’s music like “I Feel Earth Move” salad and “Oh! Carol” strip steak, etc.

Therapy in the heart of the Fremont East Entertainment District has introduced food and drink specials for football season including: small sexy sliders, fries and draft beer $13; French dip slider and beer $13; chicken-fried popcorn, fries and beer $13; a portobello mushroom slider and soft drink $10; and veggie empanadas with glass of house white wine $13. This specialty menu will also exist during the Life is Beautiful music festival, Sept. 23-25.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin is holding football season viewing parties and a “Tailgate Happy Hour” offered exclusively in the restaurant’s festive cantina from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Sunday for regular NFL games with half-priced select appetizers and drink specials.

The Juice Standard with two local neighborhood locations has introduced new items to its “chewing menu.” Complete with chia seed puddings, salads, toasts, and snacks, the new items like protein-rich toasts feature the same original recipes and organic produce used in its raw, cold-pressed juices

BRIO Tuscan Grille at Tivoli Village is giving away a four-day, Norwegian Cruise Line cruise for two to Baja California, Mexico, courtesy of STAR 107.9 and Prestige Travel & Cruises. You can enter by being a loyalty member and dining-in any time through Oct. 4. See restaurant for details.

NEON MUSEUM HOSTS FALL ARTIST IN RESIDENCE: MIKAYLA WHITMORE

On Saturday, Sept. 17, the Neon Museum North Gallery will be the site of “Surreal Signs,” an art installation and public engagement program presented by Fall Artist in Residence Mikayla Whitmore, who is a Las Vegas native. The free public event will be held in three separate sessions at noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m., but space is limited and reservations are required, call 702-387-6366.
Whitmore’s winning proposal incorporates making a miniature version or surreal diorama of the Las Vegas Strip. During the public workshop, guests will be invited to build miniature signs using simple materials.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

GRACE VANDERWAAL WILL HEADLINE ‘AMERICA’S GOT TALENT LIVE’

“America’s Got Talent” (AGT) named Grace VanderWaal the winner of Season 11 and she will headline an exclusive engagement of “America’s Got Talent Live” stage show Oct. 27- Oct. 29 in the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood at 7:30 p.m.

The 12-year-old singer-songwriter from New York will be joined on the Las Vegas stage by the mystifying Season 11 runner-up act, The Clairvoyants featuring Tommy Tena and Amelie van Taas, along with Top 10 comedic finalist Tape Face. Tickets range from $55 to $185.

RYAN STOCK AND AMBERLYNN DEBUT ‘COMEDY DAREDEVIL’ AT HOOTERS

“Comedy Daredevil” featuring “America’s Got Talent” stars Ryan Stock and AmberLynn opened last week making its daring premiere at Hooters Casino Hotel in the Night Owl Showroom. The danger-packed stunt show is performed Thursday through Monday at 9 p.m. Tickets are $34.95 general admission and $49.95 for VIP.

With props like chainsaws, sledgehammers, power drills and a lawn mower, this danger-packed sideshow has been the brainchild of Stock and his fiancée AmberLynn since they met more than a decade ago. The daring duo cut the tension throughout their show and daring antics by trading jokes and jabs onstage.

On AGT this couple’s mishap with a flaming arrow hitting Stock in the neck due to a crossbow malfunction made them an overnight sensation.

FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS WILL PERFORM AT THE PEARL

The original Jersey Boy, legendary Frankie Valli, along with The Four Seasons, will perform live at The Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms on Feb. 18, 2017 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $45 and go on sale Friday, Sept. 23 at noon. This is the first time in more than a decade that the frontman has appeared on a Vegas stage.

HARD ROCK CAFÉ PRESENTS SPECIAL SMOKE, FIRE & SPICE MENU

Hard Rock Cafe on Paradise Road is offering the limited-time Smoke, Fire & Spice menu through Sunday, Oct. 2. Experiencing this special menu firsthand, it is exciting, worthwhile and memorable with seasonings and sauces of popular street foods found around the world.

There are four distinct choices each with flavors inspired from different countries: Harissa Chicken – Morocco; Kalbi Shrimp – Korea; Satay Beef – Malaysia and Thailand; and Jamaican Jerk Pork. Each entrée is served on a sizzling hot skillet accompanied by fresh flatbread, marinated salad mix, grilled vegetables, mixed cheeses and dipping sauces.

In addition, jumbo chicken wings tossed with a choice of four very different dipping sauces are available as well as five strong drinks like Spiced Cinnamon Mule and Mango Tequila Sunrise, which can all be served in take home collectible mason jars.

JOKESTERS COMEDY CLUB OPENS AT D HOTEL

Jokesters Comedy Club, formerly at the Windows Showroom at Bally’s, is now getting down and dirty downtown at the D Las Vegas with nightly 10:30 p.m. performances by Las Vegas’ top comedians. The show is a carnival of comedy with a rotating list of comedians presenting racy, raunchy, and dirty bits weekly. Doors open at 10 p.m. for a pre-party with music, drink specials, games and giveaways hosted by house M.C., Mario Z. Tickets start at $29.95.

Rotating laugh masters will include: Don Barnhart, award-winning comedian and bestselling author; Derek Richards, a veteran of several USO tours; Rob Sherwood, 15-plus years of headlining national comedy clubs; Heath Harmison, trained Improv performer and veteran stand-up comedian; Linda Vu, Las Vegas Comedy Institute co-founder; Keith Lyle, craps dealer and actor as seen in “The Hangover” as the blackjack dealer; and Ron Coleman, veteran to comedy stages including The Improv and Catch A Rising Star.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM CREATES HANDS-ON WORKING LAB

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is converting a 1,200-square-foot space into a working laboratory that will have three objectives: to serve as a paleontological and archaeological prep lab for college students; a research facility for science professionals; and a live exhibit for museum visitors. The Richard Ditton Learning Lab, the only one of its kind in Nevada, will align with the museum’s mission to inspire, through educational exhibits and programs, a better understanding and appreciation of the natural world and will open to the public on Saturday, Oct. 8 in observance of “National Fossil Day.”
Last year, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) declared the museum a federal repository for archeological and paleontological materials removed from BLM lands in southern Nevada.

ASIA FEATURING JOHN PAYNE WILL PERFORM AT SUNSET STATION

Classic rock supergroup ASIA with frontman John Payne will return to Las Vegas with a special performance at Club Madrid inside Sunset Station on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30, $40 and $50.

ASIA was formed in the early 1980s and made two successful albums. Payne replaced vocalist/bassist John Wetton as the group’s frontman in 1992. The band extensively toured the world for the next 14 years. With Payne, ASIA released eight studio albums and several live recordings. The band celebrated its 30th anniversary with the album “XXX” in 2012 and returned in 2014 with “Gravitas.”

TICKETS ON SALE FOR BRITNEY SPEARS NEW 2017 SHOW DATES

Tickets for 18 new “Britney: Piece of Me” residency performances at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood from March through May 2017 are on sale now. Superstar Britney Spears is staying extremely relevant with her recent first time in nearly a decade 2016 MTV Video Music Awards performance, “Carpool Karaoke” with James Corden on “The Late Late Show,” and releasing her ninth studio album, “Glory.”

Spears opened her Planet Hollywood show in December 2013 and this year in mid-February she unveiled a substantial re-imagination of her show. Tickets range from $59 to $229.

RICHARD CHEESE BEGINS MINI THREE-SHOW RED ROCK RESIDENCY

Richard Cheese & Lounge Against The Machine will kick off a mini-residency with three performances at Rocks Lounge inside Red Rock Resort on Saturdays, Nov. 5, Feb. 4 and April 1. Tickets for the 2017 shows will go on sale Friday, Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. Tickets for the Nov. 5 performance start at $35.

Since 2000, Cheese has released 15 albums with his latest album “Richard Cheese: Live At Wayne Financial Tower in Metropolis” released this year. He performs swingin’ Vegas versions of rock, rap and Top-40 hits, “swankifying” contemporary songs into traditional pop vocal standards. Imagine Frank Sinatra singing Radiohead and you’ve got Richard Cheese & Lounge Against The Machine.

HOFBRÄUHAUS CELEBRATES ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST

World-class magicians Siegfried & Roy followed by Murray Sawchuck did the first celebrity keg tapping honors at Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas to kick off Oktoberfest running through Oct. 31. The following lineup of keg tappers will include: a surprise Oct. 23; former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir Sept. 24; Rich Little Sept. 30; BMX rider Ricardo Laguna Oct. 1; Australian Bees Gees Oct. 7; Clint Holmes Oct. 7; Chippendales Oct. 14; Million Dollar Quartet Oct. 15; Las Vegas Review Journal’s former gossip columnist Norm Clarke Oct. 21; Crazy Girls Oct. 22; Fantasy Girls Oct. 28; and Zombie Burlesque Oct. 29. Times vary each time between 6:45–8 p.m. so check in advance.

ONE DROP HOSTS FIFTH ANNUAL ‘WALK FOR WATER’

The fifth annual ONE DROP Walk for Water presented by Barrick Gold Corporation will have participants raising funds and awareness for critical water issues worldwide on Saturday, Oct. 15 at Symphony Park at The Smith Center. The nearly three-mile walk will begin at 9 a.m. and end at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve, where participants will enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, live entertainment, raffle prizes and more at a Harvest Festival presented by the venue. Registration fees are $20 for individuals and team walkers and $15 for students and seniors, with a $5 early bird discount before Oct. 1.

This year, ONE DROP will encourage participants to carry weighted buckets during the walk to illustrate the strain and difficulty millions of women and children face each day. ONE DROP’s ultimate global goal is to promote self-reliance in disadvantaged, rural regions of the world. In cities like Las Vegas, it’s the urgency for water conservation.

RISE LANTERN FESTIVAL IS SELLING OUT

The newly expanded RiSE Lantern Festival where more than 20,000 lit lanterns will simultaneously be released into the night atmosphere has sold out passes for the Oct. 8 date already with a limited number of tickets remaining for Friday, Oct. 7. Now in its third year, organizers expanded the experience into two days. The outdoor event will return to the Moapa River Reservation 35 miles outside of Las Vegas.

COMEDIAN FRANK CALIENDO RETURNS TO THE ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Comedian, actor and impressionist Frank Caliendo brings his signature comedy with a mix of observations, impressions including candidate Donald Trump, characters and anecdotes back to The Orleans Showroom on Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. Caliendo was a fixture on the “FOX NFL Sunday” pregame show for nearly 10 years, where he worked with Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long and more. Tickets are available from $34.95.

HENDERSON PAVILION FEATURES ADAM FERRARA AND RYAN HAMILTON

Comedians Adam Ferrara and Ryan Hamilton will co-headline a stand-up comedy show at the Henderson Pavilion at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1. Ferrara presently hosts the BBC sensation “Top Gear US” airing on History. His TV acting credits include playing Chief Needles Nelson on the FX drama “Rescue Me” with Denis Leary, and Frank Verelli on Showtime’s hit series “Nurse Jackie” opposite Edie Falco.

Hamilton with many national competition wins and festival appearances is also a regular performer at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festivals. Tickets are $23.75 and $26.75.

NEWS ON THE RUN

Lately it seems shows have been opening and closing like crazy. “Puppet Up! Uncensored” featuring a troupe of six comic puppeteers operating around 60 puppets in an improv comedy format suddenly closed Sept. 17 at The Venetian’s Sands Showroom giving it about a seven-week run. At the Planet Hollywood Showroom, Frankie Moreno’s “Under the Influence” closed after 10 weeks and Paul Zerdin’s “Mouthing Off” after 12 weeks.

Closing next on Oct. 2 will be Sin City Comedy & Burlesque at Planet Hollywood in the Cabaret room. This past June, the show relocated from the 215-seat Sin City Theater to the 150-seat Cabaret.

Michael Jackson’s suit and fedora he wore in the “Smooth Criminal” video is now on display at the Michael Jackson One Theater at Mandalay Bay.

Boxer Mike Tyson returned to the stage for another run of his show “Undisputed Truth” at the MGM Grand. Five-time world champion boxer and former undisputed welterweight world champion Zab Judah and hip hop legend Eric B recently visited his one-man show.

Award-winning musician Pepe Aguilar will take the stage at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m. Aguilar has recorded 26 studio albums and 15 No. 1 hits over his 35-year music career. Tickets start at $80.

Legendary Sonny Charles who was part of The Checkmates is appearing in the Cabaret Room at the Bootlegger restaurant in a series of live performances on Tuesday evenings with dinner at 7 p.m. and his show with “friends” following at 8:30 p.m.; call 702-736-4939.

Artist Jennifer Henry’s exhibit Fêted at the Cube gallery downtown runs Thursday-Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. through Oct.29. This is the inaugural show at the Cube, formerly Brett Wesley Gallery at Art Square, which has a completely different scope than its former incarnation. Henry transforms her inspired garments into immersive experiences at the gallery. Her fantasy environment is crafted entirely from party supplies.

Next as part of the Distinguished Lecture Series at the National Atomic Testing Museum will be Dr. Gregory Spriggs, a nuclear weapons physicist in the Design Physics Division at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, discussing “Re-Analyzing Our Historic Nuclear Footage” on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. Event is free for museum members and $10 for non-members. RSVP, call 702 794-5151.

In observance of National Pet Wellness and Adopt A Dog Month, Chapman Chrysler Jeep at 930 Auto Show Drive in Henderson will hold its third annual Pamper Your Pet Day family-friendly event 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15.

THERAPY PARTNERS WITH METAL SCULPTURIST TO BENEFIT CHARITY

There’s a new eye-catching addition at Therapy located in the Fremont East Entertainment District. Therapy has partnered with Downtown Project and renowned sculpture artist Joseph Jilbert to display his inventive pieces. All the artwork is available for purchase with 10 percent of each sale benefiting a local children’s charity.

Jilbert creates his pieces ranging from a few inches tall to more than 45 feet in height strictly from discarded and recycled metal, turning trash into treasure since he was five years old. Therapy will continue to showcase Jilbert’s artwork and to encourage metal donations of any kind so the artist can continue his work. Jilbert also takes commissioned pieces and loans his sculptures for various time periods.

BENEFIT NEWS

The remodeled historic Liberace Mansion will host the Puttin’ on the Glitz fundraising event to help Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (NPHY) on Thursday, Sept. 29 at 6 p.m. Festivities will include art, live music, live and silent art auctions, a raffle, champagne and hors d’oeuvres crafted by Mark Sandoval, UNLV’s head culinary chef. There will be special performances by Broadway in the Hood and pianist Wes Winters. Tickets are $75 and $125 per couple.

The sixth annual Solo Strips will be held Monday, Sept. 26 inside the Absinthe tent on the forecourt of Caesars Palace with the show starting at midnight. The steamy, one-night-only benefit will feature top Las Vegas entertainers baring it all for a cause, stripping down to raise funds for Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BCEFA). Tickets are $25 and $40.

Mark Philippoussis and Mardy Fish have joined the all-star field already including John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Andy Roddick and Lindsay Davenport for the 2016 World TeamTennis Smash Hits event set for Monday, Oct.10 at Caesars Palace. The one-night event, co-hosted by Sir Elton John and Billie Jean King, will raise funds for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

The Scleroderma Research Foundation’s Cool Comedy-Hot Cuisine fundraiser featuring some of the city’s top chefs and famed comedians will take place at Brooklyn Bowl at The Linq on Thursday, Oct. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Rick and Corey Harrison from television’s “Pawn Stars” will be special celebrity guests.

On Sept. 24, Carlos Santana will host a benefit event “The Ultimate Experience With Carlos Santana” at the House of Blues to benefit his nonprofit Milagro Foundation and the new Santana Telehealth Project.

The sixth annual Teddy Bear Run to benefit United Healthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF) will include a 5K run and a one mile walk for registered participants at Tivoli Village on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 7-11 a.m. This event is open to the public and will be emceed by Chet Buchannan, host of 98.5 KLUC’s Morning Zoo.

DINING HIGHLIGHTS

Beer Park at Paris has launched its new “Tailgate Brunch & Barbecue” menu in time for football season. It is available all day on weekends starting at 9 a.m. Beer Park will also be introducing an on-site sportsbook.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has introduced a new “Half-Off Happy Hour” offered Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. The happy hour includes specials on appetizers, house margaritas, sangria, shots of Cabo Wabo tequila and draft beer.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar’s next Taste & Learn event will be held Saturday, Sept. 24 from 4 to 6 p.m. This wine-and food-pairing experience will showcase four wines from Tuscany’s renowned Tenuta Il Poggione winery, each accompanied by a small plate prepared by Executive Chef Francesco DiCaudo. Tickets are $65, call 702-364-5300.

GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIAS DEBUT STOKING SOCIAL HOUR

All Las Vegas Grimaldi’s Pizzeria locations have debuted the company’s first Stoking Social Hour offering food and drink specials from 3:30 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. A special menu features $2 off draft beer, $2 off glasses of wine and $2 off Antipasto & Bruschetta. It also offers the new Coalition, which is a pairing featuring a bottle of wine plus choice of Bruschetta Trio or small Antipasto for $30, with cost varying depending on the featured wine.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

TOBY KEITH’S BAR-RESTAURANT AT HARRAH’S CELEBRATES 10 YEARS

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill will be celebrating its 10 years at Harrah’s and recent renovation on Friday, Sept. 30 starting at 5 p.m. through Satruday, Oct. 1 with drink specials and the limited-edition “Toby Keith’s Anniversary Burger” made with a Po’Boy surf and turf. Headlining entertainment on Sept 30 will be country duo Thompson Square.

The remodel includes new TVs, furniture, dance floor and a renovated 20-person private dining room.

JOHN FOGERTY RETURNS TO THE VENETIAN FOR NINE SHOWS

“John Fogerty - Fortunate Son in Concert” returned to The Venetian on Sept. 14 for a nine-show limited engagement through Saturday, Oct.1.

Fogerty, who served in the military, marked his Las Vegas return by paying homage to military veterans. He had Six-String Soldiers, a four-member ensemble of The United States Army Field Band, open two of his shows and visit the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System in North Las Vegas with him for a special performance.

JAY WHITE HONORS EARLY NEIL DIAMOND AT THE SUNCOAST

Las Vegas local and Neil Diamond tribute artist Jay White will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Diamond’s first Las Vegas show with a special performance, “Jay White Honors Neil Diamond 1976,” at the Suncoast Showroom on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 8:30 p.m.
Diamond’s first Las Vegas performance was at the Aladdin in 1976. White’s show is going above and beyond to replicate the nuances of that legendary evening. White will perform the original set list in costumes identical to those worn by Diamond. Tickets are available from $22.

On the Las Vegas Strip, White’s physical and vocal embodiment of Diamond landed him a nearly nine-year stint in “Legends in Concert” and an eight-year run performing a solo show as music star. In addition, White was selected by Hollywood director Ron Howard to portray Diamond in the Academy Award-nominated film “Frost/Nixon.” Most recently, White starred in the documentary “Diamond Mountain,” which was released in 2015.

MR. WARMTH, DON RICKLES RETURNS TO ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Returning for his 57th consecutive year as a Las Vegas headliner, Don Rickles with nicknames like “The Merchant of Venom” and “Mr. Warmth” will perform at The Orleans Showroom on Oct. 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $69.95.
Rickles first step toward national fame was in 1957 when he spotted Frank Sinatra in the audience at a nightclub in Miami Beach and zinged him. Rickles soon became the “in” comic among Hollywood stars and his acting debut followed in 1958’s “Run Silent Run Deep.”

Rickles credits and honors run incredibly deep while his career is still going strong. His best-selling memoir “Rickles’ Book” was released in 2007, followed in 2008 by “Rickles’ Letters.” He received two Primetime Emmy Awards, including Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Musical for the 2008 HBO special “Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project.” In 2009, TV Land honored Rickles with the “Legend Award.”

‘LEGENDS IN CONCERT’ UNVEILS NEW FALL CAST AT FLAMINGO

The longest-running show in Las Vegas, “Legends in Concert,” which performs 10 shows a week in the Donny & Marie Showroom at the Flamingo, is announcing its new fall cast, which will feature country mega-star Garth Brooks portrayed by Dean Simmons, Michael Jackson performed by Damian Brantley, and Whitney Houston reimagined by Jazmine. Making his Las Vegas debut, Kevin Mills will join the legendary cast as Elvis Presley.

GREAT AMERICAN FOODIE FEST RETURNS TO SUNSET STATION

The Great American Foodie Fest, formerly called the Las Vegas Foodie Fest, will return to Sunset Station Oct. 6-9. The event will feature more than 50 of the nation’s top food trucks and food vendors highlighted by a number of celebrity trucks from The Food Network, Cooking Channel, Travel Channel and History Channel. Festival hours will be 5-11 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday.

VINNIE FAVORITO SETTLES IN AT WESTGATE

The outrageous attack comedian Vinnie Favorito, who makes Don Rickles seem like a pussycat, is already very comfortable in the Cabaret Theater at the Westgate. It’s a perfect room for him to work his appropriately titled show, “Vinnie Favorito Unfiltered.” In truth, he’s never been filtered. Favorito has an amazing ability to go around his audience and just call out people and make up impromptu commentary. Warning, don’t try to upstage him; his sharp tongue will always win. As long as you aren’t easily offended, you’ll laugh and your jaw will be sore from opening in inaudible disbelief at what he says. He’s one of a kind!

MOB MUSEUM UPDATES

The Mob Museum downtown has three events taking place this October. “COPS” on Thursday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. will be a courtroom conversation featuring the reality show’s executive producer John Langley, and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Sheriffs Joseph Lombardo and Bill Young. Currently in its 28th season, “COPS” has followed law enforcement officers during patrol and other police activities in more than 140 different cities. Cost is $25 and $22.50 for museum members.

On Sunday, Oct. 16 at 2 p.m. the LVMPD will feature officers from the department’s newest unit, the Animal Cruelty Unit. This event is free to the public and includes museum admission.

On Tuesday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. will be an Author Talk with investigative journalist Shaun Assael about his brand-new book, “The Murder of Sonny Liston: Las Vegas, Heroin, and Heavyweights.” The event is free with museum admission.
In addition, the museum is continuing its extended operating hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

NEON MUSEUM ADDS SELF-GUIDED TOUR

The Neon Museum is now offering a brand-new tour option allowing visitors to get up-close-and-personal with part of its iconic neon sign collection at their leisure Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. The new, self-guided tour option is in the museum’s North Gallery, which is home to 60 historic signs. Tickets are $10 as an add-on to the Neon Boneyard tour or $19 as a standalone tour.

The following two tours depart on the hour and half-hour: Neon Boneyard Guided Day Tours are 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Boneyard Guided Night Tours 6:30–9 p.m. For information, call 702-387-6366.

BEER PARK HOSTS FIRST ROOFTOP BEER FESTIVAL AT PARIS

Beer Park at Paris will present the inaugural “Beer Park Rooftop Beer Festival” at Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. There will be 30 local and regional craft breweries, live music by The Dirty with Frankie Perez and Spazzmatics in the culb’s main room, DJ Casanova on the rooftop, and some popular restaurants. A portion of the proceeds from the festival will be donated to the UNLV Beverage Management Club. Tickets are $70 for general admission and $80 for VIP, which allows early entry at 4:30 p.m.

The official after-party will be held at Beer Park immediately following the event from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., with more than 100 beer choices, tailgate-style food, oversized yard games and a surprise performance.

LIP SMACKING FOODIE TOURS STARTS NEW CULINARY TOUR

On the heels of its successful afternoon, evening, and downtown-specific culinary walking tours, Lip Smacking Foodie Tours has introduced its newest addition, the “Lip Smacking Boozy Brunch Tour.” Offered on Saturdays and Sundays, the 2.5-hour tour starts at 10:30 a.m. and stops at three distinguished establishments at Aria…Chef Brian Malarkey’s Herringbone at Aria, Chef Michael Mina’s Bardot Brasserie, and Lemongrass.

CIRCUS COUTURE PRESENTS ‘LUCKY’ CHARITY EVENT AT HARD ROCK

Circus Couture will present “Lucky,” an extravagant circus, fashion and art event inside The Joint at the Hard Rock on Friday, Oct. 7. Now in its seventh year, Circus Couture benefits the Children’s Specialty Center of Nevada, the state’s only nonprofit clinic treating kids with cancer. Many of the aerialists, artists, fashion designers and technicians taking part in Circus Couture work in productions on the Las Vegas Strip. Tickets start at $35.

GRAPES & HOPS FESTIVAL IS FUNDRAISER AT SPRINGS PRESERVE

Breast Cancer Awareness Month will be kicked off Saturday, Oct. 1 with the Grapes & Hops Festival at Springs Preserve from 5-9 p.m. Attendees will sample fine wines, beers and food from Las Vegas restaurants while helping raise money for Par for The Cure, a nonprofit for breast cancer research. Admission is $45 in advance ($55 at the door) or $80 for two. VIP tickets are $115.

FOREVER RESORTS HOSTS CLEAN-UP DAY AT COTTONWOOD COVE

Forever Resorts will host its 20th annual Eco-Dive and Environmental Clean-up Day at Cottonwood Cove Resort and Marina on Lake Mohave on Saturday, Oct. 8 with registration staring at 7 a.m. and ending around 2 p.m. after a BBQ for volunteers. It’s an opportunity for eco-conscious individuals to help clean up the marina, the dock and surrounding beach areas. More than 9,900 pounds of debris were collected last year, which is nearly five tons of trash. The first 75 participants to arrive will receive t-shirts and all who register will be entered in a raffle to receive prizes.

RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL RETURNS TO SUNSET PARK

Clark County Parks and Recreation will present the 23rd Annual Age of Chivalry Renaissance Festival outdoors at Sunset Park Oct. 7-9. There will be shows, more than 100 artisans, historical reenactments, plus food and drink to take folks back centuries in time.

The festival is 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $13 per day in advance, $8 for seniors ages 60 and older and children age six to 12, free for ages five and younger. Three-day passes are $30 and $2o, and price goes up a couple dollars day of the event.

GLOBALLY HAKKASAN RESTAURANTS LAUNCH ‘ONLY AT’ MENUS

This September, Hakkasan restaurants around the world are celebrating the 15th anniversary of the original Hakkasan in London’s Hanway Place by launching local “Only At” dishes and cocktails. At Hakkasan Las Vegas, the “Only At” collection begins Sept. 26 and will change twice a year. There are now 11 Hakkasan restaurants globally in the UK, China, India, U.S. and Middle East.

CITY OF LAS VEGAS HOSTS FREE EVENTS IN OCTOBER

The city of Las Vegas invites the public to the following free family events in October at the Historic Fifth Street School, located at 401 S. Fourth St.

Oktoberfest is Saturday, Oct. 1, from 3 to 9 p.m. The annual festival features live German music, dance, traditional food, beer and children’s activities.

A free concert of folk music of the Canary Islands will be presented by Germán Lopez, young star of the five-string timple, and guitarist Antonio Toledo, on Thursday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. Their music brings together Spanish flamenco, West-African rhythms and a 21st-century approach to island music.

The 15th Vegas Valley Book Festival will be Saturday, Oct. 15 starting at 10 a.m. and it is free and open to the public. Celebrity authors across all genres, ages, and cultural backgrounds will share their work and creative processes.

At 5:30 p.m., the festival’s After-Dark event moves to the Inspire Theater downtown for an evening of libations, mind-opening talks with MacArthur Genius Award recipient Katherine Boo and Pulitzer Prize winner Adam Johnson. The Writer’s Block will host poet Joanne Kyger at 7 p.m. at 1020 Fremont St.

Festival attendees will enjoy books signings, readings, workshops, vendor exhibits, and other special programs. Local food trucks also will be on hand to provide fuel for inquisitive minds.

DINING NEWS ITEMS

The Angry Butcher Steakhouse, a contemporary yet classic American steakhouse, is open at Sam’s Town in the Mystic Falls Park atrium. The patio, which is al fresco but an outdoor setting inside, and adjacent bar are open for a daily social hour from 4-6 p.m. with a special menu of small bites.

Shake Shack’s Shacktoberfest, now in its 11th year, is on tap from Friday-Sunday, Sept. 23-Oct. 2. The annual celebration features an Oktoberfest-inspired menu, including a Bavarian-Style Soft Pretzel, new to this year’s menu, and a special 25-ounce Shake Shack Bier Stein for $10.

BRAVO! At the Galleria Mall is introducing new menu items again and they are winners. At a tasting, the main course herb-marinated grilled chicken with sun-dried tomato goat cheese, mashed potatoes and green beans was excellent as well as the antipasti salad, zucchini and eggplant fritti, linguine carbonara, dessert and “Happy Hour” $5 Lemontini.

MRKT Sea & Land at Aliante will host a “Passport To The World” six-course wine dinner on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 6 p.m. hosted by guest speaker and Master Sommelier Joe Phillips and feature Dom Perignon. Cost is $95.

ENTERTAINMENT BLURBS

Recently Marvel Comics movies “Captain America” and “The Avengers” star Chris Evans and girlfriend/actress Jenny Slate visited “O” by Cirque du Soleil® at Bellagio and met some of the cast afterwards.

The Festival of Praise Tour will bring some of biggest names in gospel music to Orleans Arena on Wednesday, Oct. 5, with performances from Fred Hammond, Israel Houghton, Regina Belle, Karen Clark Sheard, Hezekiah Walker and Casey J. Tickets are available from $35.

California rock band The Expendables and show opening act Las Vegas locals One Pin Short have been added to the anticipated concert lineup for Sublime with Rome at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC) on Friday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50.

Topless revue “SEXXY” at Westgate is celebrating its 400th show on Wednesday, Sept. 28. A couple “SEXXY” innocuous facts are: 6,400 costume changes; 1,212 white T-shirts ripped off; and 30 boxes of double-stick tape used for pasties.

On Friday, Sept. 30, the Grammy Award-winning band, Imagine Dragons will perform at the third annual gala benefiting the Tyler Robinson Foundation (TRF), which raises funds to support families affected by pediatric cancer. Chris Harrison, from ABC’s “The Bachelor,” will serve as the evening’s host. Four honorees will be celebrated for their tireless efforts and work toward fighting pediatric cancer, including Luxor headliner Criss Angel whose 2-year-old son has leukemia.

ABOUT TOWN NEW CLIPS

The Las Vegas Monorail has a new website aimed at making planning visits to the destination even more hassle-free with a robust hotel guide, easier navigation, and an abundance of destination information.

The LGBT community will celebrate National Coming Out Weekend downtown at First Friday on Oct. 7, which will also be the monthly event’s 14th anniversary. The celebratory theme will be “One World Through Art.”

The Eric Trump Foundation will host the third annual family-friendly Zumbathon event at Town Square Park on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 9-11 a.m. with all proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Due to increased popularity, the Zumbathon has been moved from the Trump Hotel. Tickets are $12.

The Galleries at Lake Las Vegas opened last weekend in the MonteLago Village featuring three different collections. Two dimensional art in a variety of traditional and digital media by more than 25 local and regional artists is represented there.

Home décor boutique River North has relocated from an upstairs location to a larger street level space next to Vasari at Tivoli Village just ahead of the store’s fourth anniversary.

The seasonal Butterfly Habitat, which is open each fall and spring as temperatures allow, is open now through Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., daily. You can wander through for a better understanding of butterflies and the plants that sustain them.

Admission is $2 members; $3 non-members.

BikeFest, one of the biggest motorcycle events of the year, will take place Sept. 29-Oct. 2 with a festive street party and BikeFest RockFest jam-packed with rock ‘n’ roll entertainment at the Fremont Street Experience.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

BACKSTREET BOYS ANNOUNCE HEADLINING RESIDENCY AT THE AXIS

Backstreet Boys (BSB), the best-selling boy band of all time with more than 130 million albums sold worldwide, will begin a residency inside The AXIS at Planet Hollywood starting Wednesday, March 1, 2017. General tickets for their 9 p.m. shows and first 18 dates through July 1 begin at $39 and are on sale now.

The “boys” now men include Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson. The production called “Backstreet Boys: Larger Than Life” will celebrate their more than 20 years of chart-topping hit songs.

In 2013, BSB celebrated their 20th Anniversary with the release of the album “In A World Like This,” which saw the group receive a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame, perform for the President of the United States, and appear in the Seth Rogen film “This Is The End.” BSB is currently in the studio working on their next album.

STEVIE NICKS WILL BE FIRST PARK THEATER AT MONTE CARLO HEADLINER

Rock ‘n’ Roll legend and singer-songwriter Stevie Nicks will be the first artist to perform at the new 5,300-seat Park Theater at Monte Carlo when it opens Saturday, Dec. 17. Nicks will be joined by special guests The Pretenders at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $95.

The new Park Theater will highlight a classic contemporary design and be one of the most technologically advanced venues in the world. The farthest seat from the stage will be 145 feet.

EVEL PIE WILL OPEN ON EAST FREMONT STREET DOWNTOWN

High Horse, a new hospitality collective based in Las Vegas, continues to build on the success of its first concept, The Golden Tiki, with a new restaurant called Evel Pie opening this month in the East Fremont Entertainment District downtown.

Evel Pie, operated in cooperation with Knievel’s son Kelly, will pay tribute to legendary motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel while serving New York-style pizza in a 1979 pizza shop atmosphere with a few modern touches and the namesake’s memorabilia.

‘FANTASY’ DEBUTS 2017 CALENDAR AND CELEBRATES 17TH ANNIVERSARY

Anita Mann’s “FANTASY,” the sexy adult revue at the Luxor, will debut the 2017 “Natural Beauties of Las Vegas” calendar Tuesday, Oct. 25 and also celebrate the show’s 17th anniversary. Photographed by renowned photographer Oscar Picazo, the calendar features the stunning cast modeling at destinations throughout the Las Vegas Valley and will be available for purchase for $20 at various Luxor retail outlets with a portion of the proceeds benefiting ONE DROP.

To celebrate 17 years, four-time Emmy Award nominee Mandy Moore will be choreographing a new closing number for the show set to Justin Timberlake’s smash hit, “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”

WEEKEND CARS AND COFFEE EVENT RELOCATES TO SPEEDVEGAS

Every Saturday morning beginning Oct. 8 hundreds of car enthusiasts will convene at SPEEDVEGAS for the weekend pop-up attraction, Cars and Coffee. The event attracts 600 to 1,000 car aficionados with more than 250 cars typically on display. Admission is free and the event will run from 7-10 a.m. with the track opening to the public at 10 a.m. Breakfast and coffee will be available for purchase.
The debut of Cars and Coffee at SPEEDVEGAS comes following a nearly 10-year span at its previous location near St. Rose Parkway and Eastern Avenue.

To celebrate its debut at SPEEDVEGAS, the first 10 attendees and first 10 cars owners who arrive will receive a complimentary SPEEDVEGAS experience, which will include the option to drive or ride for three laps in any car of their choice. After that, attendees will receive $20 ride along laps in any one of the available SPEEDVEGAS muscle and drift cars.

LUXURY APARTMENT COMMUNITY BEING BUILT IN CHINATOWN

Fore Property Company (FORE), which has developed 23,000 apartments nationwide, and partner, Argosy Real Estate Partners, broke ground for a new, 295-unit luxury apartment community at the gateway of Chinatown, just minutes away from the Strip. The LEED Silver designed community is the first infill project of its kind in the area. Amenities will include a rooftop terrace, a yoga/spin room, two resort-style pools complete with a DJ booth and cabanas, virtual sports room, 24-hour fitness center, massage room, concierge services and 9,000 square feet of retail space.

R&B LEGENDS PARTICIPATE IN ‘OLD SCHOOL PARTY JAM’ AT ORLEANS

Old School 105.7 will present the return of “Old School Party Jam,” a concert event featuring a collection of R&B legends including S.O.S. Band, Lisa Lisa, Zapp, One Way, Candyman, all-female group Klylmaxx, C+C Music Factory featuring Freedom Williams, Slave’s Steve Arrington, and Evelyn “Champagne” King, and more at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $35.

‘DECADENCE IN THE DESERT’ STARTS UP AT REMODELED ETHEL M

Ethel M Chocolates Factory Store and Cactus Garden in Henderson will start up its all-new Decadence in the Desert culinary and art event on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 2-9 p.m.in its newly remodeled space. The free event will be held every second Saturday starting in November and feature dozens of local artists, food trucks, entertainment, and complimentary candy samplings of Ethel M Chocolates. For guests interested in experiencing the tasting room, tickets are $19.99 at the retail store.

SUMMERLIN® FESTIVAL OF ARTS RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN®

The Summerlin® Festival of Arts, celebrating its 21st year, will return to Downtown Summerlin® for a second year on Oct. 8 and 9 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with more than 100 fine artists and craftspeople from throughout the country, showcasing and selling their original creations. There will be a full schedule of entertainment and children’s art activities hosted by DISCOVERY Children’s Museum. The event and parking are free.

JEFF WAYNE AND FRANK LASPINA TEAM UP FOR BENEFIT SHOW

Comedian Jeff Wayne has joined forces with entertainer Frank LaSpina to raise funds for the Musical Arts Scholarship Program, which LaSpina founded in 2006. This “double-header” theater event will feature two full shows in the Cabaret Jazz room at The Smith Center on Sunday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. Wayne will do a special version of his famous one-man show, “Big Daddy's Barbeque,” as directed by Ted Lange from TV’s “The Love Boat” fame, and LaSpina will present his multi-media-musical biography of Johnny Cash. Tickets are $25, call 702-749-2000.

MORE CHARITY EVENTS ON THE HORIZON

On Saturday, Oct. 15, ONE DROP will join forces with Barrick Gold Corporation to host the fifth annual ONE DROP Walk for Water. The annual walk will kick off at 8 a.m. in Symphony Park at The Smith Center and end at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve, where participants will enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, live entertainment, raffle prizes and more at a Harvest Festival presented by the venue starting at 10:30 a.m.

The first of three Farm to Table style vegan dinners at Tivoli Village as part of the Sunday Supper Series with Chef Mayra will take place Oct. 16 from 4-7 p.m. with entertainment, music, wine, dance and a community charity as beneficiary. Tickets are $70.

On Tuesday, Oct. 18, BodySpa & Salon at Pawn Plaza will host “50 Shades of Pink,” a breast cancer fundraiser for the local chapter of Making Strides. The event features a cut-a-thon by BodySpa & Salon from noon–5 p.m. and a fashion show at 6 p.m.

HELP of Southern Nevada will host its annual Tea, Trends and Tranquility event at the Mandarin Oriental with a fashion show by Macy’s on Thursday, Oct. 6 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $125.

The Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life hosted by Flamingo headliner Donny Osmond will be held Saturday, Oct. 15 at Town Square to benefit the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF). Runners, walkers and community supporters are invited Rock-A-Tutu for kids with cancer and compete in the 5K run, the fun run/walk and team race. Registration is $30 for adults, $22 for children ages 12 and under and $40 day of the event.

Las Vegas’ only PGA Tour event, Shriners Hospitals for Children Open from Oct. 31-Nov. 6 at TPC Summerlin, will hold the tournament’s sixth annual Women’s Day Kick Off Your Heels Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 1. Tickets are $125, call 702-873-1010.

Aliante will partner with United Blood Services to host a community blood drive in the Scottsdale Ballroom from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 14; call 702-233-9620. All donors will receive a coupon for a complimentary meal at Aliante’s Medley Buffet, along with a 2-for-1 voucher for a select number of shows throughout Las Vegas.

Tivoli Village will host the Cork & Soul fundraiser to support the nonprofit type 1 research JDRF organization on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 5-9 p.m. in the Piazza. Tickets are $50.

Create A Change Now, a local charity teaching at-risk students healthy eating to prevent childhood obesity, will host its second Edible Education Dinner at Panevino Ristorante on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets for the four-course dinner event start at $150.

Henry’s Place Foundation, a nonprofit organization formed in 2006 to honor Las Vegas Metro Sergeant Henry Prendes who gave his life in the line of duty protecting a victim of domestic violence, will host the 10th Annual Henry Prendes Charity Golf Classic at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 23 at the Spanish Trail Country Club. The nonprofit now has a 14-acre camp and retreat facility in Cedar City, Utah. Registration is $200 and $700 for a foursome; call 702-296-5078.

CANCER AWARENESS IN THE PINK

The Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands® Expo will change the colors of their building signs in honor of upcoming awareness days, pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month Oct. 1-8 and purple honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month Oct. 9-16.

BRIO Tuscan Grille (BRIO) at Tivoli Village will put its ‘breast’ foot forward this October for Susan G. Komen of Southern Nevada. On Wednesday, Oct. 19, BRIO will donate $1 from every pink cocktail purchased from 4–8 p.m. as well as 20 percent of all dine-in proceeds to breast cancer awareness. There will be seven pink drink choices.

Silver Sevens near the Strip is joining the fight during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by offering food and drink specials with a $1 from each sale benefiting the American Cancer Society through October. The Sterling Spoon Café is presenting pink-themed dishes like pink pancakes and the hotel bar is serving $4 pink drink specials.

HEXX Chocolate + Confexxions inside Paris will show off its sweet side during National Breast Cancer Month by raising money for the Susan G. Komen Foundation on National Dessert Day, Friday, Oct. 14. The café will be offering hand-crafted, build-your-own ice cream sandwiches with housemade cookies, priced at $6.95 and other desserts.

RESTAURANT AND BEVERAGE NEWS

Buddy V’s Ristorante inside Grand Canal Shoppes at Venetian|Palazzo will celebrate its third anniversary with a $40 three-course, prix fixe dinner on Monday, Oct. 10 beginning at 6 p.m. The Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro will greet guests. For reservations, call 702-607-2355.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin, will celebrate its one-year anniversary with an all-day fiesta filled with live entertainment, food specials and more on Thursday, Oct. 6.

The Barrymore at Royal Resort is celebrating its five-year anniversary with a commemorative throwback menu running five weeks through Sunday, Nov. 6. The nostalgic favorites being revived include: Lobster deviled eggs $12; Vitello tonnato $15; Duck confit $29; and Diver scallops $33.

The MonteLago Village Beerfest returns for the second time this year to kick off the three-week Fall Festival at Lake Las Vegas on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 2-7 p.m. Hosted by the Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, the festival will feature 30 breweries with more than 100 craft beers, including seasonal selections. Advance tickets are $35 and VIP $45. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the nonprofit KUNV 91.5 FM.

A special four-course wine pairing dinner created by Chef Daniel Boulud and Executive Chef Vincent Pouessel at db Brasserie inside The Venetian along with Brand Ambassadors from The Boisset Collection, Nico and Bibiana Snyman, will be held Friday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $85, call 702-430-1235.

NOVE Italiano at the Palms is reinventing happy hour by offering nine, $9 appetizers served exclusively in the posh bar area from 5 until closing at 10 or 11 p.m.

Hard Rock Cafe is going green with its new, limited-time vegetarian menu for Vegetarian Month. From Oct. 3 through Nov. 13, both Hard Rock Cafes in Las Vegas are expanding their menu with fresh and creative vegetarian-friendly dishes and plant-based beverages, including Cauliflower “Wings,” a Grilled Ratatouille Wrap and a Very Veggie ‘Tini.

OTTO Enoteca e Pizzeria at The Venetian is launching kid-friendly menu items for ages 12 and under showcasing the restaurant’s classic dishes in smaller portions.

Aliante will host a $95 six-course wine pairing dinner, “Passport to the World,” at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at MRKT Sea & Land. Joe Phillips, master sommelier, will be the guest speaker.

Border Grill Mandalay Bay, owned and operated by two female celebrity chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, has a new face heading up the kitchen, Executive Chef Richard Hoffmann, who most recently was the Executive Sous Chef for Mandalay Bay and Delano.

The four local Hash House A Go Go restaurants including at the LINQ and downtown Plaza have introduced the new Huckleberry Sin featuring 41 North Huckleberry Vodka mixed with homemade lemonade and fresh blueberries served in a souvenir Mason jar for $9.99 to their cocktail menu. Plus, Happy Hour from 3-6 p.m. has been extended to seven days a week.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar has introduced new fall selections to its Love Your Lunch menu, which includes a main course and soup of the day or house salad for $12.95.

Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria closed at Regal Colonnade retail center on Eastern Ave. by the 215, and now a new Italian restaurant has opened called Prosecco Fresh Italian Kitchen with a new décor.

ABOUT TOWN NEWS

Presale tickets for downtown’s fifth annual Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival just went on sale for next year’s dates Sept. 22-24, 2017. General admission for three days is $225.

Caesars Entertainment has officially rolled out a comp drink monitoring system at all of its resorts in Nevada. For the comp validation system, there is a light system showing if you’re playing enough thus earning or actually playing for a “free drink.”

Cast members from “Rock of Ages” and performers from Cirque du Soleil will compete in a lip sync, three-round battle at Beer Park on the rooftop of Paris hosted by the cast of 53X at midnight on Thursday, Oct. 6.

Margaritaville will again host its annual pre-concert pool party at the Flamingo GO Pool to coincide with Jimmy Buffett’s concert at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday, Oct. 15. The outdoor pool party from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. will have free admission and offer interactive games, food and drinks, live entertainment by The Boat Drunks and giveaways.

A Smith & Wesson .38-caliber revolver with a distinctive pearl grip once owned by mob boss Al Capone is on loan and on display at The Mob Museum downtown. The revolver was shipped from the factory in 1925 and sold by Wolf & Klar Co. of Fort Worth, Texas. It was confiscated in an arrest of Capone while he lived in Miami in 1928. After changing hands several times, the gun was finally seized and forfeited to the IRS in 2004.

Due to an overwhelming demand, “America’s Got Talent Live” inside the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood has added an additional show date on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Shows will run Oct. 27-30 with the current winner Grace VanderWaal.

The social reflexology spa Happy Feet has reopened at the El Cortez with foot-pampering treatments as well as chair, back and shoulder, and combo massages. Happy Feet opens daily at 11 a.m.

California-based retail giant Curacao held its day-long grand opening for its first store in Nevada on Oct. 1 at the Meadows Mall. The new Las Vegas store is Curacao’s 12th in its growing portfolio.

In observance of National Pet Wellness and Adopt a Dog Month, Chapman Chrysler Jeep in Henderson will hold its third annual “Pamper Your Pet Day” event on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Four-legged attendees are encouraged to dress in Halloween best for the costume contest.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

CITY OF LAS VEGAS UNVEILS NEW LOGO AND BRAND

For the first time since 1979, the city of Las Vegas has a new logo. It will be used throughout the city of Las Vegas on all new signage, workwear, vehicles, online and digital media as well as in all collateral and promotional materials to market the city. The new logo does not replace the existing official city seal but as items are replaced they will reflect the new look designed by Victoria Hart, president and creative director of Pink Kitty Creative, after an extensive vetted logo search and challenge.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM DISPLAYS PREHISTORIC SNAKE REPLICA

A realistic replica of the world’s largest snake will be on exhibit at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum Oct. 14-Jan. 8. Slithering in at 48 feet long and an estimated one-and-a-half tons, “Titanoboa: Monster Snake” includes the snake replica and two vertebrae casts made from the original fossils: a 17-foot-long modern green anaconda and the vertebra from Titanoboa, as the giant snake is called. Videos produced by the Smithsonian Channel tell the story of this scientific discovery of the 60-million-year-old snake. “Titanoboa” will travel to 15 cities on a national tour organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.

SUPER STAR POWER ITEMS

Music superstar Mariah Carey will end her two-year residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace with her final performance of “Mariah #1 To Infinity” on May 13, 2017.

Diana Ross previously sold out 18 performances of her show “The Essential Diana Ross: Some Memories Never Fade” at The Venetian Theatre and will return for the third run of her residency in February 2017. She’ll perform nine shows that month. Over her career spanning five decades, Ross has amassed 18 No. 1 hits. Tickets start at $59.50.

Two-time Grammy Award and Emmy winner, Jack Jones, will perform at Cabaret Jazz at The Smith Center Oct. 17-18 at 7 p.m. His newest album after more than 50 recordings is “Seriously Frank,” celebrating the life of Sinatra his longtime friend. Tickets start at $39.

“Pet Shop Boys: The SUPER Tour” will visit The Cosmopolitan on Friday, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. 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 their country. Tickets start at $29.

PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON CELEBRATES FIRST YEAR AT FLAMINGO

Piff the Magic Dragon and his precious white Mr. Piffles, the World’s Only Magic Performing Chihuahua, were finalists on “American’s Got Talent” and attracted a loyal fan base. Piff is celebrating his first year with a solo residency show at the Flamingo. He performs Monday-Wednesday at 8 p.m. and also tours. Tickets range from $52.95 to $72.95.

One thing about Piff, he’s the only successful comedy magician who always wears his signature dragon suit. Besides having different twists on magic tricks, Piff excels at deadpan humor. He is always conjuring up new different approaches to his stage show.

For the holidays, he will celebrate with Piff’s Piffmas Piff-Tacular, which will run from Dec. 5–14, 19–30 and Jan. 1–4.

‘CHERRY BOOM BOOM’ IS ON STAGE AT THE TROPICANA

The new modern topless cabaret-like show “Cherry Boom Boom” at the Tropicana in the remodeled theater is a combination of different adult Vegas shows with heavy sexual overtones, amplified rock ‘n’ roll music, an ongoing boy meets, loses, finds girl theme, and accentuated gyrating choreography. It’s being promoted as the ultimate playground for sex, music, love and rock ‘n’ roll. Woven into the theme are a superb pole dance and aerial act. The show’s emcee Lena Giroux is a terrific singer, who you wish sang more songs. This adult production takes over the 9 p.m. time slot while “Band of Magicians” will have the 7 p.m. time slot when it opens on Oct. 26.

AINSWORTH OPENED NORTH AMERICAN HEADQUARTERS IN LAS VEGAS

Ainsworth Game Technology (AGT), the fifth largest gaming manufacturer in the United States, recently celebrated the opening of its new $40 million North American headquarters situated on 23.7 acres along I-215 with a huge distinctive red “A” on the building. Many dignitaries were on hand for the ribbon cutting including from Australia Len Ainsworth, founder and executive chairman of AGT, and his wife Gretel. Ainsworth is known as “the father of video poker.”

STARS SUPPORT SIXTH ANNUAL ‘NF HOPE CONCERT’ AT THE PALAZZO

Prominent Las Vegas entertainers will perform at the sixth annual “NF Hope Concert” Oct. 23 at 1 p.m. at The Palazzo® to raise money and awareness for the Neurofibromatosis Network. Benefit organizer Jeff Leibow, formerly of “Jersey Boys,” has lined up Clint Holmes, Gordie Brown, Susan Anton, Reckless in Vegas, These Guys, cast members from BAZ: Star-Crossed Love and much more. Plus there will be a special farewell to the stars of “Jersey Boys” on the stage where it all started. Leibow’s daughter Emma and more than 100,000 Americans are afflicted with NF, a genetic disorder of the nervous system. Tickets start at $59.

THE VENETIAN UNVEILS NEW ‘LOVE’ ART INSTALLATION

The Venetian® has revealed the giant sculptured word LOVE in steel ruby red letters by celebrated artist Laura Kimpton. It is 12 feet tall and 36 feet across. Each letter is stamped with a small bird shape in harmonious pattern, signifying the freedom for everyone to follow their heart. Prior to being on display at The Venetian, this large-scale public art installation was installed at this year’s Life is Beautiful festival downtown and will return to the festival in 2017.

THE O'JAYS WILL BRING THE ‘LOVE TRAIN’ TO PRIMM, NEV.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The O’Jays will headline the Star of the Desert Arena in nearby Primm, Nev., on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 8 p.m. The group with their first No. 1 and million-selling single “Backstabbers” in 1972, still has two of the original O’Jays, Eddie Levert Sr. and Walter Williams Sr., and newer group member Eric Nolan Grant, who joined in 1995. Tickets start at $20.

SINGER GENE FERRARI RETURNS TO ITALIAN AMERICAN CLUB

Tenor Gene Ferrari, who was an opening act for Don Rickles, and the late Joan Rivers and David Brenner, will return to the Italian American Club with a six-piece band for a third visit on Saturday, Oct. 22 at 8 p.m. Show tickets are $25; call 702-457-3866.

ABOUT TOWN TIDBITS

Keeping the record straight on the Las Vegas resort monopoly has Station Casinos LLC now owning the Palms for $312.5 million, which means the company now owns and operates fully or has a partial interest in some 20 casino properties in Clark County.

In September, Boyd Gaming Corp. completed its $380 million acquisition of the Aliante casino, which brings the company’s inventory to 10 properties in the Las Vegas Valley.

Rouge Lounge closed last month at the MGM Grand and the space is being turned into the Losers Bar, which is a popular live bar concept in Nashville. The new venue opening in December will feature live music and draft beers.

Globe Salon will celebrate a “half-life” anniversary, 16 years in business with the past eight being downtown at 900 Las Vegas Blvd. So. in the SoHo Lofts. The public party will be held Saturday, Oct. 15 from 6–9 p.m. at Tenaya Creek Brewery at 831 West Bonanza Road with drink specials, live entertainment, etc.

Makeshift Union Cutting & Grooming, which opened at 1130 Casino Center in the Las Vegas Arts District, is downtown’s newest high-end hair salon. Founded by Detroit native and longtime stylist Lawrence Reha, Makeshift Union is a nod to the idea of taking what is available and repurposing it into something useful. The shop has seven repurposed work stations and a vintage, Americana design, complete with a custom motorcycle table.

The 26th Annual Las Vegas Metro Police K9 Trials will return to the Orleans Arena Sunday, Oct. 16. Police K9 teams from all over the country will compete beginning at 8 a.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Every Thursday at LAX Nightclub, DJs spin favorite hits from the '80s and '90s, with several memorable Throwback performers hosting select nights throughout the year. For Throwback Thursday, Oct. 13 Dirty South revolutionary Mike Jones will headline the series followed by the original regulator, Warren G, performing Thursday, Oct. 20.

At Town Square, the next New Vista Community Wine Walk will showcase a variety of food and 15 different wines on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 7-10 p.m. The cost is $25 in advance.

The Cider & Beer Harvest Festival will be held at Downtown Container Park on Saturday, Oct 15 from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $25 and $30 at the door.

The 17th Annual Wine & Food Tasting Extravaganza to benefit pediatric and families in need programs at Nevada’s largest nonprofit hospice, Nathan Adelson Hospice, will be held Thursday, Oct. 20 from 5:30-8 p.m. in the showroom at Gaudin Porsche, 6800 Redwood Street. Tickets are $75 and $150 for VIP.

On Tuesday, Oct. 18, the Neon Museum Boneyard will host “Family Friendly Las Vegas in the ‘90s,” a Times of the Signs Lecture Series event. Panelists will explore how and why Las Vegas reimagined itself as a family destination. Admission is $10, $5 for Mob Museum members, and free for Neon Museum members. Registration is required, call 702-387-6366.

Local custom leather boutique and atelier, Leather Couture by Jessica Galindo, will join the collection of retailers in Downtown Summerlin when it opens on Saturday, Oct. 22.

The+Source medical marijuana dispensary has opened a second location at 9480 S. Eastern Blvd, Suite 185, in Henderson, Nev.

HALLOWEEN-THEMED EVENTS

Fright Dome at Circus Circus spread throughout five indoor acres has been horrifying folks since 2003. This haunted theme park features dark, fog-filled attractions complete with ghoulish and gore-clad professional actors, six haunted houses, extreme scare zones, 25 rides and attractions and much more. Not appropriate for children under 12, Fright Dome includes roaming scare actors, high-powered strobes, multi-colored lasers and live shows nightly. Fright Dome is open from 7 p.m. to midnight Sept. 30–Oct. 31 on select nights. General admission tickets start at $36.95.

Zombies have taken over The LINQ Promenade with the launch of The Zombie Escape. This new attraction designed by a Hollywood studio is located behind the High Roller on Koval Lane. The challenge is for visitors to battle an infestation of the undead, replete with blood-curdling sights, spine-tingling screams and ready-to-attack zombies.

The Zombie Escape is open at 7 p.m. every Wednesday through Sunday night in October, including Halloween night, Monday, Oct. 31. General admission is $20.

Fremont Street Experience has been transformed with the ultimate Halloween street party, Fremont FrightFest, featuring a Rocky of Horror Picture Show theme. The spooktacular festivities include Halloween-themed entertainment and Viva Vision® shows.

The first Zombie Run to benefit Easter Seals Nevada will take place Saturday, Oct. 22 from 8 a.m.-noon at Wayne Bunker Family Park. Runners and leisure walkers will join the walking dead during a zombie-infested timed 5K that will lead into a Fun Run. Registration is $40.

The annual Halloween mystery dinner at Lawry’s The Prime Rib, will be held Thursday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. “Mystery Is Murder” is a whodunit theater experience and sit-down dinner. The plot is a mystery writers’ convention with writers from around the globe vying for the publisher’s attention. Cost is $99.

The Mountain’s Edge Master Planned Community will hold its annual Family, Fur & Fun Festival on Saturday, Oct. 15 at Exploration Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event promoting animal care and adoption includes the Halloween Pet Costume Contest at 1:30 p.m. with entry at $3 per category at the event.

Cantina Laredo at Tivoli Village and Patron Tequila will host a ghoulish four-course tequila dinner on Saturday, Oct. 29, as part of the restaurant’s quarterly tequila dinners. Bewitching hour will start at 7 p.m. and the best dress costumed guest celebrating Halloween will be awarded.

DINING NEWS

Mint Indian Bistro just off the Strip on East Flamingo is hosting its Third Annual Inferno Curry Challenge through Oct. 31 and also opening a second location in the southwest. This year, the challenge is using two of the world’s hottest peppers making the dish hotter by 1 million SHU. Participants must sign a waiver. To date only 32 guests out of more than 2,000 have finished the Inferno Curry and made it onto the restaurant’s Wall of Flame. Finishers also receive a $50 Mint Indian Bistro gift card and an entry into a drawing for complimentary dinner entrées for a year.

HEXX Chocolate, Nevada’s first and only bean-to-bar chocolate maker, made onsite in Paris, will celebrate National Chocolate Day by offering complimentary chocolate bars and kitchen tours ($20 value) all day, exclusively on Friday, Oct. 28. Furthermore, HEXX will offer a complimentary 1.05-ounce dark or milk chocolate bar with the purchase of a 2.12-ounce bar.

The newly renovated Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill at Harrah’s recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a surprise appearance from its namesake founder Toby Keith, the presentation of a large American Flag guitar cake, and the debut of the “Toby Keith’s Anniversary Burger” made with a Po’Boy surf and turf through Oct. 31.

Border Grill at the Forum Shops will celebrate its second anniversary on Thursday, Oct. 20 by offering $2 Suprema Sangrias. Also from Oct. 28 to Nov. 4, the eatery will have Dia De Los Muertos festivities and a special menu.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar’s across from the Hard Rock on Paradise Road has some new menu items along with a brand-new vegan menu and “paleo pasta.”

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will celebrate National Nachos Day with new seafood nachos with fresh lobster and shrimp offered exclusively on Sunday, Nov. 6 for $21.95.

For the first time, Habit Restaurants, Inc. is introducing a Golden Chicken Sandwich nationwide through October for $6.25. There are currently three locations in Las Vegas.

Smokin’ at Seasons Market will feature a live smoker with St. Louis-style pork ribs on Friday-Saturday, Oct. 14-15 from noon to 7 p.m. at the new Seasons Market in MonteLago Village at Lake Las Vegas. Featured items include a rack of ribs for $14.99 and a rib meal with two sides for $9.99.

CITY OF LAS VEGAS HOSTS FREE EVENTS IN OCTOBER

Bring your lunch to enjoy a noon time free hour-long concert by French Canadian singer Naomi Emmerson Friday, Oct. 21, at the Lloyd D. George Federal Courthouse Jury Assembly Room at 333 Las Vegas Blvd. South.

Two family-friendly science-fiction movie classics – “Attack of the Monsters” and “War of the Monsters” will be shown for free outdoors on the lawn at the Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza in Lorenzi Park Saturday, Oct. 29, starting at 6:30 p.m.

CANCER AWARENESS HAPPENINGS

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin is donating 10 percent of the proceeds from each $11 pomegranate margarita purchased to support breast cancer awareness research throughout the month of October.

On Friday, Oct. 21, National Mammography Day, BODIES…The Exhibition at the Luxor will offer visitors clad in something pink a complimentary audio tour when they purchase a regular admission to the exhibition. Guests will have the opportunity to view a real, breast cancer specimen.

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace exterior and Triton Fountain are bathed in pink all month while guest services reps wear pink scarves and ties and the pink ribbon symbol is projected on the ceiling near the Fountain of the Gods. Also some retailers are offering special pink products.

Guests purchasing High Roller tickets at The LINQ Promenade may donate to Breast Cancer Awareness all month long in October and receive a free pink bracelet with each $1 donation and for $5 a free pink alcoholic drink.

CRUSH inside the MGM Grand is showing support for local nonprofit, Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada, by donating $1 from the sale of every $14 signature Punch, Drunk, Love cocktail this month.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Oct. 16, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

BRUNO MARS LAUNCHES DEAL WITH MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL

Four-time Grammy Award-winning superstar Bruno Mars will help kick off the opening seasons for MGM Resorts International’s two new entertainment venues on each side of the country. In Las Vegas, he’ll be headlining the new 5,300-seat Park Theater at Monte Carlo on Friday, Dec. 30 and New Year’s Eve Dec. 31. He’ll return in 2017 for additional dates Saturday and Sunday, March 11 and 12. Tickets for the four performances range from $99.50 to $550.

DONNY & MARIE OSMOND EXTEND RESIDENCY AGAIN AT FLAMINGO

After recently celebrating their eight-year anniversary at the Flamingo, Donny & Marie Osmond have extended their popular residency through the end of 2017. Tickets range from $95 - $262.

America’s beloved brother-sister duo, Donny & Marie have continued to be one of the most popular acts on the Strip since opening at the Flamingo on Sept. 9, 2008. Their original deal was a six-week contract. Since then they have performed nearly 1,200 shows there and in October 2013 the showroom was renamed the Donny & Marie Showroom.

GORDIE BROWN AND ‘ROCK OF AGES’ SHOWS WILL BE CLOSING

Comedy impressionist Gordie Brown, who has made the 600-seat showroom at the Golden Nugget his home for the past seven years, will be ending his run on Nov. 24. His shows are nightly except Monday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. Brown has been a regular headliner in Las Vegas since 2004 and toured with Celine Dion for a while.

“Rock of Ages” at the Rio and after a previous three-year run at The Venetian will close Jan. 1, 2017.

VISITING ‘PARK PEOPLE’ ARE A LEGO® ART INSTALLATION

New people constructed by renowned artist Nathan Sawaya are visiting The Park on the Strip through Dec. 30, 2016. Nine large-scale, brightly colored monochromatic human figures crafted entirely from LEGO® bricks are situated on wooden benches and placed throughout the outdoor space. People can cozy up to these “Park People” and take pictures.

Sawaya, a former corporate lawyer, is an award-winning artist and founder of The Art Of The Brick global touring exhibition. His critically acclaimed, inspiring works of art are made entirely of LEGO bricks and are on exhibition at various institutes and galleries around the world. This playful exhibit is Sawaya’s first display in Las Vegas.

‘THE BEATLES™ LOVE™’ INTRODUCES FREE OPEN REHEARSALS

While the free open rehearsals for “Mystère” at Treasure Island ended this past weekend, the opportunity moves over to “The Beatles LOVE” by Cirque du Soleil® at The Mirage. This stunning show recently celebrated its10th anniversary by introducing new acts, music, technology, video, and choreography. Fans can attend open rehearsals every Friday from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m. and Sunday from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Guests receive a voucher offering tickets starting at $55 based on availability. Open rehearsals are subject to cancellation so confirm by calling the box office at 702-792-7735.

CÉLINE DION CELEBRATED 1,000th SHOW AT CAESARS PALACE

Céline Dion recently experienced her 1,000th time on The Colosseum at Caesars Palace stage. Her milestone performance closed with bronze and silver confetti and balloons raining down on everyone. Tickets are on sale now for her 7:30 p.m. shows through June 3, 2017.

Dion’s first Las Vegas-residency show was, “A New Day”… created and directed by Franco Dragone. It played 717 performances from March 25, 2003, through Dec. 15, 2007. After a three-year break from Las Vegas, Dion returned on March 15, 2011, with a glamorous new show directed by Grammy Awards producer Ken Ehrlich.

GORDON RAMSAY FISH & CHIPS IS OPEN AT THE LINQ PROMENADE

Celebrated chef Gordon Ramsay’s fourth Las Vegas restaurant, Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips, is now open featuring authentic British comfort food with fresh, sustainable ingredients, paired with hand-crafted shakes, lemonades or ice-cold beer at The LINQ Promenade. Open daily at 11 a.m., the fish at the takeaway-style eatery is sustainable Alaskan True Cod. The chef’s other Las Vegas restaurants are: Gordon Ramsay BurGR at Planet Hollywood; Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace; and Steak at Paris.

MICHIGAN-BASED ZINGERMAN’S COFFEE OPENS IN VEGAS AT THE D

Derek Stevens, owner of the D downtown, just opened the Coffee Stand at the D in the lobby serving coffee from Ann Arbor-based Zingerman’s Coffee Company, which is a wholesale roaster with their product in cafes, restaurants and businesses throughout the country. This Las Vegas location is the first location of its kind in Nevada and joins the resort’s Michigan-owned restaurants American Coney Island and Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. Hours are 6 a.m.to midnight with drink prices starting at $2.25

Founded in 2004, Zingerman’s products are sourced from international landscapes including South America, Indonesia, Honduras, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe and many more places.

HARD ROCK CAFE HOSTS CANCER BRUNCH WITH OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN

Hard Rock Cafe on the Strip will team up again with Flamingo headliner, Olivia Newton-John, who is a breast cancer “thriver” rather than survivor, for a special bottomless champagne benefit brunch “Turn up the Pink” on Sunday, Oct. 23 from noon–2 p.m. Newton-John will be joined in an exclusive performance by acclaimed singer/songwriter and bandmate Steve Real along with guest entertainers Chadwick Johnson, Melody Sweets and the Chippendales. Tickets are $75, call Lisa Hendrixson at 702-650-8590. Proceeds will benefit Making Strides Las Vegas.

The North Las Vegas Fire Department will park a pink firetruck on The Strip in front of Hard Rock Cafe all day for supporters and survivors to stop and sign.

RICHARD PETTY DRIVING EXPERIENCE CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY

At the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Richard Petty Driving Experience is celebrating its 20th anniversary by partnering with American Cancer Society and Maverick Helicopters, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary, to host a “Survivor Ride” on Wednesday, Oct. 26 for six breast cancer survivors.

In addition a complimentary Ride-Along, valued at $109, is being offered through October with the purchase of the Rookie Experience putting a visitor in the driver’s seat of a NASCAR-style race car; call 1-800-237-3889 and mention “20th Anniversary Special.”

BELLAGIO AND ARIA FEATURE HALLOWEEN DISPLAYS IN CHOCOLATE

Jean Philippe Pâtisserie with locations at Bellagio and Aria celebrates with Halloween-themed displays from gory and gruesome body parts to whimsical cakes and pastries at both pastry shops. Executive Pastry Chef Claude Escamilla and his talented team worked diligently for eight months to create more than 45 festive showpieces. Scary zombie heads, wicked jack-o’-lanterns and other intricate, holiday-inspired delights decorate every nook and corner in both European pastry shops.

Aria’s main showpiece is a 200-pound, six-foot-tall male zombie made out of chocolate and rolling fondant. Another sight to behold is the life-size skeleton perched in a chocolate electric chair. This design took the team more than 70 hours to complete, using approximately 130 pounds of white and dark chocolate.

A zombie showgirl is the main focal point at Bellagio standing alongside a rundown Welcome to Las Vegas Sign. She was created using nearly 160 pounds of chocolate and 75 pounds of rolling fondant.

MARVEL AVENGERS S.T.A.T.I.O.N. WILL HOST COSBASH 2016

The new Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. at Treasure Island will host CosBash 2016 on Friday, Oct. 28 from 8-10 p.m. with a costume contest and chance to meet comic legend Stan Lee. Costume judging by celebrity guests will take place from 8–9 p.m. with winners and prizes announced at 9:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar and DJ. The first 150 fans in costume will receive free entry.

WYNN NIGHTCLUBS CREATE ‘WYNNDERLAND’

Wynn Las Vegas’ nightlife venues Intrigue, XS and Surrender will transform into “Wynnderland” presenting a modern twist to the classic “Alice in Wonderland” story Oct. 28, 29 and 31. For the first time, all three Wynn nightclubs will be thematically unified under the “Wynnderland” concept but decorated differently. Intrigue’s winding staircase will lead to the Rabbit Hole. XS will become the Queen's Garden. Surrender will transform into a Mad Tea Party scene.

Intrigue will hold a Sexiest Costume Contest on Thursday, Oct. 27 for $25K in cash and prizes and again on Friday, Oct. 28 for $15K in cash and prizes. Surrender’s Sexiest Costume Contest for $10K in cash and prizes will be Monday, Oct. 31.

Town Square will be town scary on oct. 31

Town Square will transform into Town SCARY on Monday, Oct. 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. when children of all ages can trick-or-treat with their own basket at participating stores and restaurants. Activities will include holiday-themed children’s games, costume contests and Halloween photos in Town Square’s Haunted House. Brio Tuscan Grille will host free pumpkins and coloring. Kids 12 and under who visit Yard House in costume from Oct. 29 to 31 will receive a Kids Card valid for a complimentary children’s meal on a future visit. Yard House will also serve Halloween-themed menu items including Vampire Tacos, Deviled Eggs and Midnight Sangria.

DOWNTOWN SUMMERLIN® HOLDS SECOND HALLOWEEN TREAT STREET

Treat Street will return to Downtown Summerlin® on Monday, Oct. 31 from 4–7 p.m. The complimentary event allows families to dress in Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating throughout the destination’s common area where participating retailers and restaurants will pass out candy. New this year will be the Teal Pumpkin Project offering non-food items for folks with allergies noted by blue-green pumpkins at the storefront.

In addition, Downtown Summerlin is partnering with The Animal Foundation to host a Howl-O-Ween pet costume contest for doggies in Macy’s Promenade. Entry is $20 for the first pet and $10 for the second with registration beginning at 4 p.m.

SLS HOSTS HALLOWEEN FUN AND BOOKS LIL WAYNE

Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Wayne will appear during the return of Halloweezy Part II at Foxtail Nightclub inside SLS on Saturday, Oct. 29. Attendees are encouraged to dress in costume for a chance to take home $50,000 in cash and prizes in the sexiest costume contest. Doors open at 10:30 p.m. and tickets start at $35 for females and $40 for males.

Also on Saturday, Oct. 29, Adelitas Way and Conflict of Interest will appear inside The Sayers Club during “Nightmare on Adelitas Way.” Following the bash, one winner will take home a grand prize in the costume contest. Doors open at 9 p.m. Presale tickets start at $15 and at the door $20.

The holiday weekend early kick off will be the second Zombie Prom at The Sayers Club on Friday, Oct. 28 benefitting the Fabulous Sin City Roller Girls. All zombies are encouraged to dress in ghoulish costumes for a costume contest. Doors open at 10 p.m. and tickets are $10.

WALKER FURNITURE HOSTS FREE HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN CARVING EVENT

Walker Furniture at 301 S. Martin Luther King Blvd. will host a Chanh Boupha Pumpkin Carving Event on Sunday, Oct. 30 from noon to 2 p.m. with free face painting from noon to 4 p.m. and free hot dogs and soda from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Walker Furniture Atrium. Guests will have a chance to win one of two professionally carved 80-pound pumpkins done in full view by Chef Boupha.

MORE ‘SPOOK-TACULAR’ HALLOWEEN ITEMS

Note: Face masks are limited at many events so check first.

For the fourth year in a row, Opportunity Village’s Magical Forest is transformed into the slightly scary HallOVeen nightly through Oct. 31 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. This family-friendly event features plenty of rides, attractions, crafts, movies, storytelling, the Candy Cabin and special entertainment in the Haunted Castle Courtyard. Adult general admission is $11.99 and $9.99 for ages 3-12.

The LINQ Promenade will host a Halloween celebration on Thursday and Friday, Oct. 27-28 starting at 6 p.m. Festivities will include Halloween-themed décor, music with DJ Miguel, face painters, zombie stilt-walkers and a zombie LED drumline performing. The “TRIQ or Treat” experience also returns providing a safe trick-or-treat environment for kids. A costume contest with $10,000 in cash prizes for participants 21 and over will take place on Oct. 29.

Hershey’s Chocolate World on the Strip at New York-New York on Monday, Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. will be giving out a complimentary snack size Hershey’s Candy Corn Creme Bar to visitors dressed in costume.

Spooktacular fun for all ages awaits those who dare enter the Springs Preserve’s annual Haunted Harvest featuring trick or treat stations, carnival games and circus activities, a petting zoo, crafts, live entertainment, etc. Train rides are a few dollars more than the venue’s $8 general admission fee.

The National Atomic Testing Museum (NATM) is hosting a family-friendly Haunted Museum in the popular Area 51 exhibit Oct. 17-29 (excluding Oct. 23) with zombies, ghosts, aliens, etc. There are craft activities in the lobby. Cost is $5 and free for museum members.

In addition, the sci-fi classic “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” from1956 will be shown at the NATM on Saturday, Oct. 22 at 6 p.m. Admission is free.

HEXX Kitchen + Bar and HEXX Chocolate + Confexxions inside Paris will get in the spooky spirit with complimentary chocolate bars to visitors wearing a costume and a festive “Witch’s Brew” sharing cocktail pitcher for $38 throughout Halloween weekend, Friday-Monday, Oct. 28-31.

The infamous Fetish and Fantasy Ball and Lifestyles Expo will be held at the Hard Rock Hotel Saturday, Oct. 29 from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. General admission gives access to three giant rooms and two levels of insanity and nonstop entertainment.

Neighborhood “spooktacular” celebrations will be happening at Distill, Elixir and Remedy’s five locations beginning at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29 for guests 21 years or older with music plus drink and dining specials. Costume contest categories will include sexiest, scariest and most outrageous. No face paint or masks are allowed.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin will celebrate Halloween and Dia de los Muertos with an enchanting Ketel One vodka potion cocktail, The Witch’s Brewtini, from Friday, Oct. 28 through Tuesday, Nov. 1 for $11.25.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will celebrate Halloween and Dia de los Muertos with a handcrafted spooky cocktail and patio parties from Friday, Oct. 28 through Tuesday, Nov. 1. The Resurrection cocktail is handcrafted with Revel Stoke roasted pecan whiskey for $12.

Life Time Athletic’s Las Vegas clubs will celebrate Halloween with the annual “Spooktacular” family event on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Green Valley location and from 5 to 7 p.m. at Summerlin. Tickets start at $20.

RANDOM NEWS CLIPS

Masaharu Morimoto’s first restaurant in Las Vegas will open Friday, Oct. 21 at the MGM Grand in the space previously occupied by Shibuya. Chef Morimoto, the star of Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” will be offering a new Japanese dining experience.

The Gateway Arts Foundation is presenting “50 Pounds From Stardom,” an afternoon of music and levity by Jeneane Marie and Marianne on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 2 p.m. at the Starbright Theatre in Summerlin. Tickets are $20, call 702-240-1301.

Due to popular demand, six rare personal effects belonging to RMS Titanic’s First Officer William Murdoch will be on display for an extended period of time at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition inside the Luxor through Nov. 15. Murdoch’s recovered items include a toiletry kit with a shoe brush, an official White Star Line button, a straight razor, a pair of long-johns and a smoking pipe.

Local businesses and craft beer fans continue to be the driving force behind the fifth annual Downtown Brew Festival being held Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Clark County Amphitheater from 5 to 9 p.m. Advance tickets are $40 and $50 and $10 more the day of the event.

Fall Harvest Festival will be held at Tivoli Village on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. There will be food and beer trucks, live entertainment, chef demos, games and prizes, pie eating contests, petting zoo and more.

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum will hold its 25th Annual Dinosaur Ball on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Red Rock Resort. The fundraising gala will feature entertainer Doug Starks, an 18-piece orchestra, local comedian Paul Scally and the gala’s first host Dave Courvoisier. Tickets start at $250, call 702-384-DINO (3466).

Pastry Chef Brigette Contreras from STK in The Cosmopolitan was awarded the “Pastry Chef of the Year” by the Nevada Restaurant Association. Presentation was made by NRA-chair Alaina Alexander and former 32nd Lieutenant Governor and owner of The Bootlegger Bistro, Lorraine Hunt-Bono.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘CLASSIC CHER’ WILL DEBUT AT PARK THEATER AT MONTE CARLO

The electrifying Cher will debut “Classic Cher,” a series of special concerts exclusive to North America beginning Feb. 8 in Las Vegas. Known for extravagant stage spectacles, Cher will bring an all-new show to MGM Resorts’ newest live entertainment venues, Park Theater at Monte Carlo in Las Vegas and The Theater at MGM National Harbor in Maryland. Cher has nine dates set in February and in May with more to be announced in the future. Tickets are ranging from $60 to $475.

A worldwide superstar for more than six decades, Cher has sold more than 100 million records. Her three-year 325-show world “Farewell Tour” from 2003 to 2005 played to more than three million fans and became the most successful tour ever by any female artist.

WILLIE NELSON PLANS FIVE-SHOW ENGAGEMENT AT THE VENETIAN

American icon Willie Nelson will take over The Venetian Theatre with his exclusive new show, “Vegas On My Mind,” for a limited five-night engagement Jan. 28-20, Feb. 1, 3 and 4 at 8 p.m. All five shows will feature a set list and production designed exclusively for Las Vegas. Tickets start at $59.50.

Incredibly prolific, Nelson in the last five years alone has delivered 10 new album releases. This year began with the release of “Summertime: Willie Nelson Sings Gershwin,” a collection of 11 newly recorded Gershwin classics. In September, he came out with “For the Good Times: A Tribute to Ray Price.”

Nelson is set to release a new novel “Pretty Paper” this month.

ONEREPUBLIC, LINDSEY STIRLING, PLUS MORE WILL VISIT THE JOINT

OneRepublic with special guest Lindsey Stirling will headline Mercedes in the Morning’s annual Not So Silent Night holiday show at The Joint at Hard Rock on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 6:30 p.m. More names will be added to the lineup and announced soon. Tickets start at $59.50.

OneRepublic is currently promoting the group’s new album “Oh My My.” This is their fourth album, which was written and recorded in nearly 20 cities around the world. It reveals an extraordinary creative scope by blending alternative rock, gospel, synthpop, nu-disco and folk.

Electronic music impresario, classically trained violinist and dancer Lindsey Stirling has become one of this century’s most innovative stars by clinging to her groundbreaking vision of cinematic, violin-driven electronic music. Her most recent third full-length album is “Brave Enough.”

COSMOPOLITAN HAS STING AND THE WEEKND NEW YEAR’S EVE WEEKEND

The Cosmopolitan reveals their knockout lineup for New Year’s Eve weekend at The Chelsea featuring two Grammy award winning performers, The Weeknd on Friday, Dec. 30 and Sting on Saturday, Dec. 31. Canadian singer/songwriter and music producer Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, will jumpstart the weekend. Bringing in the New Year, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer-songwriter Sting has a vast catalog of hits as both a solo artist and as a member of the 1980s rock band, The Police. His forthcoming album, “57th & 9th” will rock the house until the final countdown. Tickets for The Weeknd start at $150 and for Sting $200.

In addition, The Ice Rink at Boulevard Pool will also host a New Year’s Eve fireworks viewing celebration with skating, open bar, and a live DJ from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31.

FREEDOM BEAT OPENS AT DOWNTOWN GRAND WITH ENTERTAINMENT

Freedom Beat is the new restaurant at the Downtown Grand that replaced the resort’s former cafe, Stewart + Ogden, and closed Red Mansion restaurant. With 160 seats and a generous bar, Freedom Beat is open 24/7 and located on the main casino floor and also has free entertainment.

During October and November, featured acts include: country headliner Jack Ingram; modern country and pop act The Porch Hounds, led by Aaron Benward, former lead singer of Blue County, and Travis Howard, best known for writing Miranda Lambert hits “Famous In a Small Town” and “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend;” and Las Vegas’ own Franky Perez, best known for his 2003 rock radio hit, “Something Crazy,” as well as being the lead singer of Apocalyptica and Kings of Chaos.

Entertainment moves nightly from the Freedom Beat stage 6 to 9 p.m., to the casino floor stage from 9 to 11 p.m., and then finishes with some food and drinks back at Freedom Beat from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. In addition, on Mondays at 9 p.m., the Gibson Showcase calls Freedom Beat home, offering up a variety of Gibson guitars for anyone who wants to have a jam session.

THE VENETIAN WILL INTRODUCE THE DORSEY

The Dorsey, a new modern cocktail spot, will debut at The Venetian® Dec. 31 on the casino floor adjacent to Restaurant Row. The Dorsey is in partnership with award-winning bartender Sam Ross of New York City’s Attaboy and Milk & Honey fame and David Rabin, the creative mind behind New York City hot spots Café Clover, The Skylark, The Lambs Club and JIMMY at the James. It is being designed by James Beard Award winning Thomas Schlesser of the Design Bureaux.

RESTAURANT GUY SAVOY AT CAESARS PALACE DEBUTS CAVIAR ROOM

Award-winning Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace, which is the famous chef’s only restaurant in the United States, is introducing a new Caviar Room in the restaurant’s elegant lounge. The Caviar Room will offer an exclusive menu of caviar dishes. To personally launch the new experience, Chef Guy Savoy will be in the restaurant from Nov. 2-6.

BILLY IDOL EXTENDS HOUSE OF BLUES PERFORMANCES INTO 2017

Billy Idol and the House of Blues (HOB) at Mandalay Bay announced the extension of “Billy Idol: Forever” into March and May 2017. The show features Idol, his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens, and the rest of Idol’s band. The HOB residency kicked off in March 2016. Tickets start at $79.50.

Idol’s autobiography, “Dancing With Myself,” was published by Simon and Schuster on Oct. 7, 2014. Later that month, on Oct. 21, 2014, BFI Records released “Kings & Queens of the Underground,” Idol’s first album of new material in nearly a decade.

SUPERIOR GLOBAL CULTURAL ACTS VISIT THE SMITH CENTER

Hailed as the Heart of the Arts® in Las Vegas, The Smith Center is bringing four world class cultural acts to Reynolds Hall and offering four-show packages. The amazing acts include: Celtic Thunder: Legacy Monday, Nov. 7; Shaolin Warriors Monday, Feb. 20; Kodo: DADAN Saturday, March 25; and Taj Express Monday, April 24. A World Stage Package starts at $88. Single tickets are only available for Celtic Thunder and the other three shows are by cost saving packages only.

The first show Celtic Thunder is Ireland’s most beloved male singing group.

TROPICANA AND CHEF IRVINE HOST MILITARY CULINARY COMPETITION

The Tropicana is teaming with the Military Hospitality Alliance (MHA) to host the 13th annual Military Culinary Competition on Saturday, Nov. 12 inside the Trindad Pavilion from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The culinary event will make its debut in Las Vegas this Veterans Day weekend and will be hosted by the Tropicana’s newest chef, Robert Irvine, who is a former member of the British Royal Navy.

More than 50 active duty military from around the world will face off during the ultimate food fight for the title of Armed Forces Culinary Grand Champions. The military chefs for this hand-to-pan competition will work in 15 teams of four, bringing together military members from all branches of the Armed Forces during. Entry to the event is free and open to the public.

In addition, Chef Irvine will host a special meet-and-greet and book signing from 1 to 3 p.m. His newest book is “Fit Fuel: A Chef's Guide to Eating Well, Getting Fit, and Living Your Best Life” for $29.99 at the event.

Lastly, Beach Café at the Tropicana will host a $24.95 Veterans Day Lunch Buffet Friday-Sunday from noon to 2 p.m.

REO SPEEDWAGON WILL HEADLINE AT THE ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Iconic Rock Band REO Speedwagon will perform their legendary songs at The Orleans Showroom Nov. 19-20 at 8 p.m. The current lineup includes founding member Neal Doughty, lead singer Kevin Cronin, bass player Bruce Hall, guitarist Dave Amato and drummer Bryan Hitt. Tickets start at $69.95.

Formed in 1967, REO Speedwagon started performing at fraternity events at the University of Illinois. In 1971, the band signed with Epic Records and went on to release eight albums in the 1970s. In 1984, REO Speedwagon released their 11th studio album entitled “Wheels Are Turnin’,” which included the No. 1 single “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”

HAMMARGRENS HOST 21ST ANNUAL NEVADA DAY OPEN HOUSE

Former Nevada Lt. Governor Lonnie Hammargren, M.D., and his wife, Sandy, will present their annual Open House with music and tours at the Hammargren Home of Nevada History at 4318 Ridgecrest Drive on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29 and 30 from noon to 4 p.m. Tickets range from $10 and $15 to $45 weekend packages, visit www.nevadaday.org.

Hammargren will unveil his new book “Neurosurgeon for the Gladiators” detailing his extraordinary life as a medical professional and political leader. Copies of his new book will be available for purchase, which Hammargren will autograph.

QUICK NEWS ITEMS

Comic icon cannabis fan Tommy Chong will be in Las Vegas on Election Day Tuesday, Nov. 8 appearing from 3-8 p.m. at Shango Premium Cannabis’ brand new 70,000-square-foot medical marijuana dispensary on Boulder Highway to provide comment regarding the presence of Question 2, which is whether or not to legalize recreational cannabis, on this year’s ballot.

The final performances of “Million Dollar Quartet” at Harrah’s will take place on Dec. 4 at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on the 60th anniversary of the legendary night the show’s story is about.

Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, Las Vegas’ only PGA TOUR event, is welcoming 5-year-old, one-arm golf prodigy, and since he was 4 years old Shriners Hospitals for Children patient Tommy Morrissey, Oct. 31 through Nov. 6 at TPC Summerlin.

Fremont Street Experience is sponsoring the annual American Heart Association Heart Walk happening on Saturday, Nov.5 and attracting thousands of walkers.

The Gateway Arts Foundation will present the original revue “Trunk Shows,” which is filled with original songs that were cut from stage and cabaret shows while they were in previews, with proceeds benefiting the scholarship program. The show headlines six of Las Vegas’ best performers on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20, call 702-255-0695.

Local start-up charity Rise Family Services is launching an online rummage sale of new and gently used baby and children items from Nov. 5-20 to benefit local families…visit risefamily.org. Items will be delivered to buyer’s home.

South Point launched the Nevada Race Book, a new wagering application that allows equine sports bettors and fans the convenience of placing real money wagers directly from their smart phone anywhere in Nevada. This complements South Point’s successful Sports Book app.

Israeli comedian Hanoch Daum will be performing his entire show in Hebrew at The Sands Showroom on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 9:30 a.m. Daum is publicist, neurotic, idealist and a few more things. Tickets are $40.

HEXX Chocolate + Confexxions at Paris will hold its second toy drive for Toys for Tots from Monday, Nov. 7 through Friday, Dec. 16. The Strip-side retail store and candy shop will collect new and unused toys and give donors 15 percent off their in-store purchase that day and enter them in weekly raffles.

DINING HOT TIPS

Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse in The Venetian plans a special menu with eight dishes created by Chef de Cuisine Ronnie Rainwater from Nov. 7-13 for “Truffle Week.”

Carson Kitchen located Downtown started an all-new monthly happy hour affair on the rooftop patio taking place the first Friday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m. Bites prepared by Chef John Courtney and swigs sponsored by Breakthru Beverage are $8 each. A portion of the proceeds benefit Keep Memory Alive.

Famed Chef Roy Yamaguchi is hosting a four-course wine pairing dinner with partner Chef Laura Reyes at his Roy’s Las Vegas restaurant on East Flamingo Road on Tuesday, Nov 8. Cost is $89 with wine pairings included.

Aureole at Mandalay Bay will feature RAEN Winery for its Napa-Sonoma Wine Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. RAEN, standing for Research in Agriculture and Enology Naturally, winemaker Carlo Mondavi will be on hand to discuss his wines being paired during the four-course dinner. Cost is $185.

Ferraro’s Restaurant & Wine Bar’s next Taste & Learn family-style, four-course dinner featuring wines of Passopisciaro grown on 100-plus-year-old vines will be Saturday, Oct. 29 from 4-6 p.m. Cost is $65, call 702-364-5300.

Andiron Steak & Sea in Downtown Summerlin will host an intimate dinner with Executive Chef Micah Waltz featuring premium Strauss Grass Fed Beef, using a variety of cuts and dishes to incorporate the entire animal on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $62 and an optional wine pairing is available for an additional $25.

CELEBRITY POKER TOURNAMENT HELPS CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL®

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® will host its third annual “St. Jude Against All Odds” celebrity poker tournament at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5, inside The Joint at the Hard Rock. The evening includes red carpet, cocktail reception, dinner, silent and live auctions, and competitive Texas Hold’em play. Tournament buy-in is $600 and dinner tickets $200; call 702-341-2903. Poker players have the chance to win a seat in the 2017 WSOP Main Event and a getaway to Fiji’s Namale Resort & Spa.

HIGH ROLLER HOSTS SPECIAL HOLIDAY CHOCOLATE TASTINGS

The High Roller in-cabin holiday chocolate tasting experience with Ethel M Chocolates from Thursday, Nov. 3 through Thursday, Dec. 29 is showcasing seasonal flavors such as peppermint, pumpkin and pecan. During the 30-minute rotation, an Ethel M chocolatier ambassador will discuss the origins of chocolate and how the pieces were created. Guests will receive one voucher for a complimentary glass of wine, which can be picked up in the Sky Lounge prior to boarding. Tastings are available every Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Standard admission pricing is $52, call 702-322-0593.

HALLOWEEN QUICKIES

The Downtown Grand will hold a rooftop party at 8 p.m. at its Citrus Pool on Friday, Oct. 28. The Halloween event will be complete with a costume contest for $1,000 at 10 p.m., prizes and special shots.

Oak & Ivy at Downtown Container Park recently introduced its frightful specialty cocktail menu creations with a killer twist channeling horror movies. An example is the Leatherface’s Nightmare, inspired by “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” crafted from Slaughter House American Whiskey with aquafaba (garbanzo bean water), fresh lemon, a touch of smoked salt, and a slice of cactus jerky as garnish.

Beer Park at Paris will hold a “Hoppy” Halloween costume contest on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 9 p.m. and select a winner by popular vote for the chance to win the boozy prize: all-you-can-drink beer for the rest of the year. The sexiest costume will win a $250 gift card. Over the weekend Beer Park will have staff dressed in their scary best and feature spooky Ouija boards and “pin the zombie” games.

Kid 'n Play will return to LAX Nightclub at the Luxor pre-Halloween Thursday, Oct. 27 for The Pajama Jam 2, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of “House Party 2,” which originated the Pajama Jam trend. Celebrate in footed onesies with Christopher “Kid” Reid and Christopher “Play” Martin while films from the “House Party” series are shown and DJ R.O.B. spins '80s and '90s hits. On Saturday, Oct. 29, music industry visionary Scott Storch will host the “Vampires and Vixens” costume party.

Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop at Paris will celebrate Halloween with a weekend-long bash, featuring a Golden Ticket Party, which includes a HEXX chocolate bar drawing, with DJ Bayati on Friday, Oct. 28 and the club’s annual Wicked Halloween Ball on Saturday, Oct. 29. Tickets online are $30 for women and $40 for men.

Halloween activities at Lake Las Vegas include holiday themed kids and adult cruises and a performance of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” The family Haunted Pirate Cruise with fun activities and prizes for costumes takes place 6-7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28. Cost is $30 for two people and $25 for one. The Shipwrecked Adult Haunted Cruise features a costume contest and prizes, music, free appetizers and Captain Morgan Rum drinks from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 31. Cost is $25. “Macbeth” is being staged by the Shakespeare Institute of Nevada on Friday, Oct. 28 on the grassy knoll main stage in MonteLago Village from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Performances are free or $35 for VIP seating with wine and hors d’oeuvres at Essence & Herbs from 6- 6:45 p.m.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘TORUK - THE FIRST FLIGHT’ STOPS AT T-MOBILE ARENA IN JANUARY

The new Cirque du Soleil touring show inspired by James Cameron’s movie “Avatar,” “TORUK – The First Flight,” will be presented at T-Mobile Arena for one week only, Jan. 18-22 as part of a global arenas tour. The show transports audiences to the world of Pandora with a storytelling odyssey and visually stunning live setting. Tickets start at $35.

NEW YEAR AT HARRAH’S WILL START WITH TENORS OF ROCK

At year’s end, “Tenors Of Rock” will debut at Harrah’s on Wednesday, Dec. 28 featuring rock anthems sung by burly British frontmen backed by a full band and choreographed dancers. The all-new production will feature dynamic and harmonically complex renditions of treasured songs from iconic groups like Aerosmith, Queen, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, The Rolling Stones, and more. Tickets range from $35 - $99.

“Tenors Of Rock” is comprised of five blokes from the UK – Gareth Richards, Jonathan Williams, Dai Richards, Tommy Sherlock and Jimmy Denning – who each have an extensive performance history that includes everything from world tours to stints on London’s West End.

IRON CHEF MASAHARU MORIMOTO DEBUTS RESTAURANT AT MGM GRAND

Masaharu Morimoto, famed Japanese chef and star of Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” made his official Las Vegas debut opening Morimoto Las Vegas at the MGM Grand. The Iron Chef star hosted Kagami Biraki, a traditional Japanese sake ceremony where the lid of a new sake barrel is broken open. The rice wine is then served to guests to bless the venue with harmony and good fortune. The restaurant opens daily at 5 p.m. and offers three distinct dining experiences: sushi bar, main dining room and Teppan tables. It is also introducing the first and only iron griddle menu Morimoto offers in his renowned restaurant portfolio.

The ambiance reflects a modern and chic dining environment offset with Japanese artwork. Diverse spaces are punctuated with compelling design elements, such as the cherry blossom wall behind the bar and exquisite photographs by glamorous president and representative director Yasumichi Morita, above the Teppan tables. Additional artistic features include: The Morimoto Rope Statue; The Glass Carving Room; and Sushi Wall.

BORN AND RAISED CRAFT PUB WILL OPEN AT GRAND BAZAAR SHOPS

Born and Raised, a locally-owned Nevada tavern and lounge, is opening its third location and newest concept in early 2017. Born and Raised CRAFT PUB will be located at the Grand Bazaar Shops on the Strip adjacent to Wahlburgers, Starbucks and the entrance to Bally’s. The new place will feature Las Vegas-inspired décor, craft beers and the first retail shop. Born and Raised launched its brand with a flagship Las Vegas location in 2010, adding Born and Raised Henderson in 2015.

SIN CITY BREWING CO. JUST OPENED AT GRAND BAZAAR SHOPS

Expanding again on the Strip, Sin City Brewing Co. just opened its newest bar and fourth location at Grand Bazaar Shops featuring its five signature craft beers, a rotating seasonal brew, and the brewery’s first outdoor seating. The design is inspired by the mall’s open-air market at with a convenient walk-up bar for guests-on-the-go. Trained by German brewmasters, Rich Johnson, Sin City’s Master Brewer, has his brews utilizing only four ingredients in accordance with the 1516 German Beer Purity Law. Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

‘FANTASY’ AT THE LUXOR CELEBRATES 17 YEARS

Last week, the gorgeous ladies of “FANTASY,” the adult revue at the Luxor, celebrated the debut of its 2017 “Natural Beauties of Las Vegas” calendar and the show’s 17th anniversary. The showgirls posed on the pink carpet in sequined rose pink dresses and showed off their individual new calendar pages.

It was a star-studded event with producer and choreographer Anita Mann, executive producer of “So You Think You Can Dance,” Nigel Lythgoe, dancer Chloe Crawford, the cast of “SEXXY,” the cast of “Rock of Ages” and the cast of “Thunder From Down Under.”

Along with the dancers, the show continues to impress with powerful lead singer, Lorena Peril and comedian Sean E. Cooper. “FANTASY” is performed nightly at 10:30 p.m. in the Atrium Showroom at Luxor. Tickets start at $39.

SINGER DANIEL EMMET-PIANIST PHILIP FORTENBERRY VISIT SMITH CENTER

Vocalist Daniel Emmet, 23, and virtuoso pianist Philip Fortenberry will present their intimate, acoustic 75-minute cabaret-style musical performance, “In Concert” at The Smith Center’s Cabaret Jazz showroom on Monday night, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $45.

To date, Emmet commanded stages from The Staples Center in Los Angeles to the Palais Todesco in Vienna, Austria. Fortenberry provided the “hands of Liberace” for Michael Douglas in the Emmy-winning HBO biopic, “Behind the Candelabra” and received the first “Ghostlight Award” as Best Musician on Broadway for his role as pianist and associate conductor for the musical “Rocky.”

FRONT LINE NEWS TIPS

Due to an overwhelming demand for tickets to “Backstreet Boys: Larger Than Life” at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood, eight additional shows in April 2017 have been added: April 12, 14, 15, 19, 21, 22, 26 and 28.

Also due to overwhelming demand, Cindy Williams of “Laverne & Shirley” fame is extending her run as a guest star in “Menopause The Musical®” at Harrah’s. Originally scheduled to perform July 7–Aug. 28, Williams received such a positive audience response that show producers GFour Productions asked her to continue performing through Dec. 3, 2016.

Flamingo headliner Jeff Civillico is having knee surgery on Oct. 31. He’s giving himself three months to heal with a projected return-to-work date of Feb. 6. On another note, Civillico says to save the date for Win-Win Entertainment’s Headliners Bash 2016 taking place on Friday, Nov. 18 at The Penn & Teller Theater in the Rio and he plans to be in attendance. Show lineup will be announced shortly.

‘SOUL TRAIN AWARDS’ WILL TAPE AT ORLEANS ARENA

Centric’s “Soul Train Awards” will return to the Orleans Arena on Sunday, Nov. 6 with four-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Erykah Badu hosting the star-studded event. Teddy Riley, three-time Grammy Award-winning producer, singer and songwriter, will receive the “Legend Award.” Brandy, the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter who has sold more than 40 million albums since the early 1990s, will be presented with the second “Lady of Soul Award.” The show will tape from 6-8 p.m. Tickets start at $55; call Ticketmaster 800-745-3000.

The “Soul Train Awards” will air on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. (PST) on Centric and BET.

SUNCOAST HOSTS ‘DIXIE’S TUPPERWARE PARTY’

Dixie Longate, a hilarious Southern belle known for her uninhibited style and side-splitting wit, will stir up some outrageous fun in “Dixie’s Tupperware Party” at the Suncoast Showroom on Nov. 18-19. Showtime is at 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $30.

            Starring writer, actor and real-life Tupperware sales representative, Kris Andersson, Dixie is a Tupperware associate for the Orlando-based Tupperware Brands Corp. After packing her bags and leaving her children in an Alabama trailer park, Dixie’s character now travels the country throwing Tupperware parties filled with funny tales, free giveaways and the most up-to-date products available for purchase.
            Andersson debuted “Dixie’s Tupperware Party” at the 2004 New York International Fringe Festival. Following the show’s debut, he teamed up with playwright Elizabeth Meriwether and director Alex Timbers to create an off-Broadway version of the production. The show received a 2007-08 Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Solo Performance.
            Dixie has performed more than 1,000 times worldwide and is the #1 personal seller of Tupperware in both the U.S. and Canada.

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE HOSTS THIRD LITTLE BLACK DRESS EVENT

The Las Vegas Fashion Council (LVFC) will host its third annual “Little Black Dress” fundraiser benefiting LVFC and Friends of the Shade Tree from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 17 at Saks Fifth Avenue at Fashion Show Mall.

The event features a runway show competition with dresses designed by Art Institute of Las Vegas students and one winning a $500 grant. There’s also a fashion forward raffle, DJ, hors d’oeuvres and champagne. Tickets are $100 general admission, $80 LVFC members and $35 students at www.lasvegasfashioncouncil.com.

THE HABIT BURGER GRILL WILL OPEN FOURTH VALLEY LOCATION

The Habit Burger Grill burger-centric, fast casual restaurant with three Las Vegas locations will open a fourth outlet in the Aliante area of North Las Vegas late this year. The 94-seat restaurant at 6482 N. Decatur Blvd. will feature indoor and patio dining with the California-inspired interior décor.

VETERANS DAY MILITARY SPECIALS

The 4th Annual Salute to the Troops free public concert featuring Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band will be held at the Fremont Street Experience on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. on the 1st Street Stage with an opening performance by country music artist Phil Vandel. In addition, Salute to the Troops is a multi-day trip for approximately 150 veterans and their loved ones from both Walter Reed at Naval Support Activity Bethesda and Fort Belvoir, who will be seated in a VIP area, flown to Las Vegas by American Airlines, housed at The Mirage and hosted for a pre-concert dinner by Landry’s Bubba Gump restaurant at Planet Hollywood.

The Golden Nugget is offering veterans and military two-for-one tickets to two upcoming performances in its 52 Fridays concert series: America on Nov. 4 and Lou Gramm “The Juke Box Hero” & Former Voice of Foreigner on Nov. 11. Tickets start at $19.

A couple buffets are offering a complimentary meal to military service members to show appreciation. One is at the M Resort and the other is the S7 Buffet at Silver Sevens.

Some restaurants are giving discounts on Nov. 11 for active or retired military with ID. Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian will provide 25 percent off food only for lunch and dinner. At Public House at The Grand Canal Shoppes it will be 15 percent off food. Beer Park at Paris will give a 20 percent discount of their total bill. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in downtown Summerlin will offer a 25 percent dining discount. Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood will offer some two-for-one drink discounts.

The day before Veterans Day, the South Point will honor veterans and one guest with free entry to the Garden Buffet for breakfast with bottomless Bloody Marys, lunch or dinner on Thursday, Nov. 10. The complimentary buffet will be available from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

UNLV HOSTS MISS NEVADA USA AND TEEN USA PAGEANTS

The Miss Nevada USA and Miss Nevada Teen USA pageants will be held at the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. The two new winners will be crowned by the previous titleholders, Miss Nevada USA 2016, Emelina Adams, and Miss Nevada Teen USA 2016, Carissa Morrow. The show will be hosted by former Miss USA 2014 Nia Sanchez and Josh Keating. Tickets are $25, call 702-895-ARTS (2787).

MORE SHOWS AROUND TOWN

Emmy Award-winning group The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute will pay homage to The Beatles in two performances at the Suncoast Showroom Nov. 5 and 6 at 8:30 p.m. The California-based group has been performing The Beatles’ classics for nearly 20 years all over the world. The Fab Four’s popularity stems from their note-for-note renditions of Beatles’ songs, which are exceptionally precise and authentic. Tickets are available from $33.

Nevada Ballet Theatre and Cirque du Soleil® will present A Choreographers’ Showcase with the theme “Unity Through Art” on Nov. 13, 19 and 20 at 1 p.m. in the Mystère Theatre at Treasure Island. The show highlights the collaboration between the artists of both companies. Tickets are $25, $35 and $45, call 702-894-7722.

The 75-minute “Spy Escape & Evasion Las Vegas Show” hosted by Ex-CIA Officer Jason Hanson at the Stratosphere runs Nov. 2-5 at 5 p.m. and is very entertaining. After almost a decade in the CIA, Hanson brings real-world spy safety experience and techniques direct to audiences, teaching critical skills and valuable information that 99 percent of Americans don’t know. Ticket prices start at $59.

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country features national artists as part of nationwide Club Shows benefiting ACM Lifting Lives®. Montgomery Gentry will perform on Friday, Nov. 4 at 9 p.m. After nearly a decade and a half, the country duo has accumulated 14 Top 10 singles. Tickets are priced at $25 for general admission.

Legendary saxophonist Don Hill from the group Treniers will celebrate his 95th birthday on Nov. 3 at the Italian American Club with Jazzin’ Jeanne Brei & The Speakeasy Swingers, a band he co-founded in 2002. Fellow entertainers will be honoring him in song and comedy roasts. A half hour documentary video about his life will be shown at 6 p.m. There will be a $10 cover.

ABOUT TOWN NEWS ITEMS

Beer Park at Paris will host a rooftop viewing party for the UFC 205 title fight between Eddie Alvarez and Conor “The Notorious” McGregor starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12. Presale viewing party packages will start at $50, email reservations@beerpark.com.

An exclusive pre-fight charity fundraiser will be held at Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar following the Manny Pacquiao vs. Jesse Vargas weigh-in on Friday, Nov. 4 from 6-10 p.m. Boxing enthusiasts will be joined by Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame boxing legends.Tickets, which include appetizers and a beer or wine cocktail, are $75.

On Wednesday, Nov. 9, Henderson’s newest gastro lounge style restaurant Standard & Pour at 11261 S. Eastern Ave. will host a special “happy hour for a cause” from 5-7 p.m. to benefit Dress for Success Southern Nevada. The event includes a selection of passed appetizers prepared by Executive Chef Jake Dieleman paired with signature cocktails and a silent auction. Cost is $25.

The Day of the Dead will be celebrated at the Springs Preserve Nov. 4-6 from 4-9 p.m. The family-friendly Día de Muertos event blends rich customs with activities: live entertainment, mariachis, storytelling, traditional Mexican food, face painting, sugar skull decorating, an art exhibition and more, including publicly created altars. Tickets are adults $10, and $6 for children 3 to 12.

On Thursday, Nov. 10, The Palm Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will hold a 5:30 p.m. reception followed by a five-course tapas dinner paired with Spanish wine from the family-owned Bodegas Torres. Tickets are $95 for 837 Club Members and $120 for non-club members, call 702-732-7256.

This month, Las Vegas-headliner Britney Spears presented the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF) with a check for $200,000. Throughout her time performing at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood, $1 of every ticket purchased to Britney’s show, “Britney: Piece of Me,” has been donated to the NCCF as part of her partnership with the organization. With this donation, Spears will have reached halfway to her goal of raising $1 million for NCCF to build its new permanent facility.

On Election Night - Tuesday, Nov. 8 there will be an Exit Poll/Pole Party at the Sapphire adult club 5 to 9 p.m. A $10 donation to the Sapphire Foundation for Prostate Cancer at the door grants guests access to free champagne, an all-American buffet, and a raffle ticket to win prizes. Trump and Hillary masks will be handed out to each guest and the best Trump or Hillary impersonator judged by crowd applause will win $1,000 in prizes.

The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada (The Center) at 401 S. Maryland Parkway will present its second The Age of Aqueerius Senior Prom for members of the LGBTQ community ages 50 and greater on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 6-9 p.m. Attendees of this1960s-themed prom are asked to come dressed for the decade. Food and drinks will be served, and a Prom King and Queen will be picked. Admission is $10 at the door.

LAS VEGAN IS WHITE CASTLE’S CRAVERS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

White Castle, America’s first fast-food hamburger chain, has been part of American culture for 95 years. Its passionate fan base is known as Cravers. In 2001, White Castle created the Cravers Hall of Fame, an honorary club that recognizes its most ardent fans. For the past year customers submitted stories and from 1,000 entries, White Castle selected 14 loyal Cravers from across the United States. Russ Axelrod from Las Vegas was recognized for his submission “A Slider to Lean On” after a college girlfriend broke up with him.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

SANTA FE & THE FAT CITY HORNS WILL APPEAR WEEKLY AT THE PALMS

One of Las Vegas’ favorite bands for more than 40 years, the Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns, will return home to The Lounge inside the Palms on Monday, Nov. 14 with weekly shows at 10:30 p.m. Over the years, as a “farm club” for many headline acts, shows and bands, many incredible musicians have honored its ranks. The latest band incarnation features a six-piece horn section, a six-piece rhythm section and five lead singers. Tickets are $10.

CAESARS PALACE INTRODUCES ALTO BAR

As Caesars Palace celebrates its Golden Anniversary, it continues to expand the empire with the addition of Alto Bar located in the former Seahorse Lounge space adjacent to OMNIA Nightclub and the Race and Sports Book. Alto Bar is now the largest bar at Caesars Palace and it’s lined with several private booths equipped with personal televisions with audio. The bar space features more than 15 televisions and 18 video poker machines. There’s even a private dining space where up to 30 guests can indulge in a curated experience or host meetings with a 70-inch television.

HAWTHORN GRILL TO OPEN THIS WINTER AT JW MARRIOTT

When JW Marriott and Rampart Casino celebrated their 17th anniversary, the announcement was made that the resort will open a new signature restaurant, the Hawthorn Grill this winter.

Hawthorn Grill will boast a menu featuring a balance of crave-worthy steakhouse fare and American classics, alongside an extensive wine and cocktail program. There will be a rich bar area, a large, yet cozy dining room and an expansive outdoor patio with a waterfall and lush foliage. The restaurant will be open daily for breakfast, including a signature breakfast buffet, and dinner with bar hours.

Chef Joseph Swan, formerly of the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, will be the executive room chef and Christian Umlauf will serve as general manager having also come from The Strip at db Brasserie.

PROHIBITION-ERA FASHION-CULTURE EXHIBIT OPENS AT MOB MUSEUM

The Mob Museum downtown just launched “Ready to Roar,” an exhibition of Prohibition-Era fashion and culture. Curated to illustrate the indelible impact the Prohibition Era had on women’s fashions as well as social, political and economic freedoms, the exhibit runs until February 2017. Included among the items is an array of authentic dresses and accessories from the 1920s and early 1930s. Breaking away from the buttoned-up Victorian social norms during the Prohibition era, speakeasies gave rise to “flappers,” young women who redefined social expectations through fashion.

BRITAIN’S COMEDIANS JOHN CLEESE & ERIC IDLE APPEAR AT VENETIAN

Still together again, Britain’s living legends of comedy, John Cleese and Eric Idle, will bring their show “John Cleese & Eric Idle: Together Again At Last...For The Very First Time” to The Venetian on Nov.18 and 19 at 8 p.m. Cleese and Idle will blend scripted and improvised bits with storytelling, musical numbers, exclusive footage and aquatic juggling to create an interesting comedic experience with every performance. Tickets start at $49.95.

As founding members of “Monty Python,” Cleese and Idle are among the godfathers of modern comedy, helping to pioneer an irreverent, absurdist sensibility. As individuals, they have written, performed and produced phenomenal shows like “Spamalot,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Rutles.”

COMEDIAN STEVEN WRIGHT RETURNS TO ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Comedian, actor and producer Steven Wright will bring his deadpan delivery and trademark satire to The Orleans Showroom on Nov. 25-26 at 8 p.m. Comedy Central ranked Wright No. 23 on their list of the world’s 100 greatest stand-up comics. Tickets start at $44.95.

In 1985, Wright received a Grammy Award nomination for his debut comedy album, “I Have a Pony.” Twenty-two years later, he received a second Grammy Award nomination for its sequel, “I Still Have a Pony.” Following his second nomination, Wright became the first inductee into the Boston Comedy Hall of Fame.
In 1989, Wright won an Academy Award for Best Short Live-Action Film for the satirical production “The Appointments of Dennis Jennings,” which he starred in and co-wrote. Wright has also starred in several films, including “So I Married an Axe Murderer,” “Desperately Seeking Susan” and “Half Baked.”

GEICO ROCK ‘N’ ROLL LAS VEGAS MARATHON ATTRACTS THOUSANDS

The GEICO Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon & ½ Marathon will take over the Strip on Sunday night, Nov. 13. The Las Vegas event is renowned for hundreds of runners dressed as Elvis, known as the Running Elvi. Every year the event also includes a Run-Thru Wedding Chapel where runners can tie the knot or renew their vows on the race route. The finish line venue is in front of the Mirage Volcano.

In addition the Las Vegas Convention Center will be the site for the Marathon’s three-day Health & Fitness Expo, Nov. 10-12, which is free and open to the public. Note the Las Vegas Monorail will be the only Strip transportation option available during the Marathon and will offer runners and spectators exclusive discounted Monorail passes online.

ENTERTAINMENT NOTICES

At the Tropicana, “Cherry Boom Boom” had its final performance there on Oct. 26. The show’s producers are weighing their options for a possible new venue.

Former child actor, Dustin Diamond, best known for his role as Screech in 90’s hit sitcom “Saved by the Bell,” will headline five special shows as part of the new “Pop Icon” series featuring iconic headliners from the 80s through 2000s at Sin City Comedy & Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Nov. 10, 11 and 12. His co-headliner will be Lisa Landry and the Sin City Dollz.

“Jukebox Hero” Lou Gramm, who skyrocketed to stardom with the arena rock band Foreigner and went on to mount a successful solo career, will appear at the Golden Nugget on Friday, Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. as part of the resort’s 52 Fridays series. Tickets start at $19 and there’s a two-for-one ticket offer at the Box Office when you present a VA or military identification card.

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country at Town Square is lining up artists each weekend from 7 p.m. to midnight. Friday, Nov. 11 will feature Jared Blake, who was on “The Voice” in 2011, and songwriter, producer and musician Brodie Stewart. The next night, Nov. 12, California native and former college baseball pitcher, Brett Young will appear. He debuted his self-titled album last February 2016 with the lead single, “Sleep Without You.”

Gino Vannelli will headline the Grand Events Center at Green Valley Ranch on Friday, Nov. 18 at 8 p.m. In 1973, trumpeter Herb Alpert signed Vannelli with A&M Records. In 1974, his single “People Gotta Move” made it to No. 22 on the Billboard Top 100, and in 1975, he made his television debut on the infamous “Soul Train.” In 1978, the song “I Just Wanna Stop” earned Vannelli a Grammy Award and his album “Brother to Brother” was certified platinum in early 1979. Tickets range from $20 to $60.

The 17th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards will take place at the T-Mobile Arena on Nov. 17. This will mark the ninth time the biggest night in Latin music comes to Las Vegas.

TWISTA, TRICK DADDY AND JA RULE WILL BE LAX NIGHTCLUB HEADLINERS

LAX Nightclub at the Luxor will have hit-producing machines this month: Chicago rapper Twista on Thursday, Nov. 10; Dirty South rapper Trick Daddy on Thursday, Nov. 17; and four-time GRAMMY-nominated rapper Ja Rule on Saturday, Nov. 19.

TOWN SQUARE SETS UP THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Halloween is over and activities are now gearing up for the holiday season beginning with Santa Claus coming to Town Square in a parade at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11. Before the jolly man’s arrival, performers will take center stage next to Santa’s House in Town Square Park. Performances will begin at 5:30 p.m. with “BAZ – Star Crossed Love” followed by Nevada Ballet Theatre at 6 p.m. and Clint Holmes, who is the star of his own show at The Palazzo at 6:30 p.m. Following the parade, Santa will light the 45-foot Christmas tree and snow will begin to fall. Children will be able to take photos with Santa Claus inside his Norman Rockwell-inspired house afterwards.

After Nov. 11 and through Friday, Dec. 23, photo reservations with a $20 deposit will be required and can be made online at www.TownSquareSanta.com. Photos on Dec. 24 will be walk-ins only, first-come-first-serve basis. Claus & Paws Pet Photos will be available every Wednesday, Nov. 16-Dec. 21 from 10 a.m-9 p.m. for dogs and cats and reservations required.

Snow in the Square 10-minute shows will be scheduled Monday–Thursday at 7 p.m. and Friday–Sunday at 7 and 8 p.m. through Dec. 23. Every Thursday, Nov. 17-Dec. 22, there will be a community concert before the show performed by local elementary through high school students.

GLITTERING LIGHTS DRIVE-THRU DISPLAY RETURNS TO MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway gets bigger and better every year with two-and-a-half miles of lighted displays running Friday, Nov. 11 through Jan. 7 starting at 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday tickets are $20 per vehicle. “Anyday” tickets are $30 per vehicle. A season pass is $70 for two vehicles for the entire season. There is also a Santa Tram running from Exotics Racing for $35 per person, which includes the tram ride, hot cocoa, kettle corn, photos with Santa, and games. Tickets for this must be purchased in advance online.

FAST NEWS TRACK

Last week, the El Cortez downtown, which is Las Vegas’ longest continually-run casino, celebrated its 75th anniversary. Several legendary figures once owned the hotel—from previous owner Bugsy Siegel to beloved casino operator Jackie Gaughan, who owned the casino for decades and lived at the hotel for much of his life. Today, El Cortez is family-owned by the Epstein family.

A first time event, the Tater Tots & Beer Festival with music will be held at the outdoors Henderson Pavilion on Saturday, Nov. 12. Limited tickets are available for one of two sessions; first from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and secondly from 2-6 p.m. All tickets are sold in advance online $40 and VIP $75.

The 41st annual Indian National Finals Rodeo will be held at South Point’s Equestrian Center Arena Tuesday-Saturday, Nov.8-12. Cowboys and cowgirls will be completing in the finals in several categories including calf roping, bull riding, ladies barrel racing, team roping and bareback riding. Tickets range from afternoon tickets at $15 and $20 to evening at $20 and $25.

Topgolf launched the first Topgolf Tour Champions challenge in August holding a series of tournaments across the nation in 16 cities. The finals will be held at Topgolf in Las Vegas on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. It’s free for the public to view the competition.

DINING EXPECTATIONS

Medley Buffet at Aliante will offer a free breakfast or lunch buffet to all active U.S. military and veterans with a valid ID in honor of Veterans Day on Friday, Nov. 11.

Aureole’s Napa-Sonoma Wine Dinner Series at Mandalay Bay is welcoming RAEN, standing for Research in Agriculture and Enology Naturally, Winery on Thursday, Nov. 10 with winemaker Carlo Mondavi on hand to discuss his wines. The chef created four-course dinner is $185 with a reception at 6:30 p.m.

Family-owned Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar on Paradise Road Nov. 5-13 is celebrating its 31st Anniversary with throwback prices and three-course menu offerings priced at $31.31.

OPENTABLE REVEALS ITS LIST OF TOP STEAKHOUSES IN AMERICA

OpenTable, the world’s leading provider of online restaurant reservations, unveiled its list of the 100 Best Steakhouses in America for 2016. These awards reflect the combined opinions of more than 5 million restaurant reviews submitted by verified OpenTable diners for more than 20,000 restaurants in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Not counting restaurants listed with multiple locations, the restaurants recognized in Las Vegas included: Bazaar Meat by José Andrés at SLS; Craftsteak at MGM Grand; CUT at The Palazzo; Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris; Prime at Bellagio; THE Steak House at Circus Circus; STK at The Cosmopolitan; SW Steakhouse at Wynn; and Top of the World Restaurant at the Stratosphere.

CHILDREN’S CHARITIES HOSTS PJ 5K RUN/MILE WALK AT MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Hundreds of runners and walkers enthusiasts will participate in the fourth annual PJ 5K Run & 1-Mile Walk through Glittering Lights fundraiser at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS) on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 4:30 p.m. Glittering Lights is Nevada’s largest drive-through Christmas light show and features millions of LED lights and hundreds of sparkling light displays. Participants are invited to run, walk or push strollers through the course in their pajamas.

Entry fees range from $25 to $45 with children age 5 and under free. To register in advance, visit www.scclasvegas.org.
Everyone registered receives a race bib, an event completion medal, and light snacks and beverages. If you donate a new pair of children’s PJs, you have a chance to win two tickets to the 2017 NASCAR Weekend at LVMS, next March 10-12.

BODIES EXHIBIT AT LUXOR HAS A SMOKEOUT DAY OFFER FOR QUITTERS

As smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, BODIES…The Exhibition inside the Luxor will give a complimentary audio tour with a paid admission to anyone on the American Cancer Society’s “Great American Smokeout” on Thursday, Nov. 17, who throws away a pack of cigarettes in the “Commit to Quit” container located the exhibit that day.

Inside the exhibition’s respiratory room, guests can view a real smoker’s lung damaged by toxins and tar alongside of a healthy human lung, offering an impactful visual to the dangers of smoking along with special smoking facts.

THE MOB MUSEUM HOLDS NOVEMBER EVENTS

The Mob Museum downtown has multiple programs planned this month.

In honor of Veterans Day, active and retired military will receive two-for-one admission to The Mob Museum on Nov. 11.

For the fifth year in a row, the museum recognizes Kefauver Day on Nov.15, in honor of the Kefauver Committee Hearing into organized crime that took place in the museum’s historic courtroom on Nov. 15, 1950. Nevada residents receive free admission, while non-locals can enjoy buy-one, get-one admission all day.

There will be and author’s talk and book signing with Selwyn Raab on Thurday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. Raab’s book, “Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires,” traces the history of the infamous Cosa Nostra. At this event, he will reveal information about how these families and talk about how they are reinventing themselves in the 21st century.

There will be a free Community Safety Forum on Gang Awareness forum on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. presented in partnership with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.

On Tuesday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. museum director of content Geoff Schumacher, author of “Howard Hughes: Power, Paranoia & Palace Intrigue,” will discuss the history of this reclusive billionaire’s secret arrival in Las Vegas 50 years ago this month. During this multimedia presentation, attendees will hear a rare recording of Hughes’ voice from a 1971 phone conversation. Free for Museum Members or with Museum admission.

REMEDY’S GOES ROCKABILLY TO CELEBRATE 8TH ANNIVERSARY

Remedy’s Tavern at 530 Conestoga Way in Henderson will celebrate its 8th Anniversary on Saturday, Nov. 12 beginning at 7 p.m. and there is no cover charge but you must be 21. The Phil Friendly Trio will play rock ‘n’ roll music and partygoers are encouraged to wear their finest rockabilly fashions and compete in a costume contest. Guests will be able to partake in a dinner buffet, drink specials and hourly prize giveaways all night long.

BEER PARK HOSTS AFTER-PARTY FOR UNLV VS. UNR RIVALRY GAME

Beer Park at Paris will host an after-party with specials following the Battle for Nevada college football game on Saturday, Nov. 26 at Sam Boyd Stadium. It is a major rivalry game between University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels and University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) Wolf Pack competing for the covered Fremont Cannon. Fans decked in either college pride gear or displaying a valid university ID will receive a complimentary Bud Signature draft upon entry.

MISC. CLIPS

Daniel Maguire from ABC’s hit show, “Bachelor in Paradise,” will host a bash at Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop at Paris on Wednesday, Nov. 9. The 31-year-old bachelor is a Canadian model and personal trainer who is also known for being a runner up on the latest season of ABC’s “The Bachelorette.” Party admission is $30 for men and $20 for women.

The Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF) will present the 23rd Annual Profiles of Courage Dinner Gala and auction fundraiser to help children with critical illnesses at Bellagio on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $250.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

NEW YORK’S PAPAYA KING WILL OPEN ITS FIRST NEVADA LOCATION

Papaya King, New York’s reigning hot dog emporium since 1932, will open its first Las Vegas location at Harmon Square, across from the Hard Rock Hotel this fall.

Recognized as a favorite among celebrities and seen on the hit-show “Seinfeld,” the New York-based restaurant, known as the tropical oasis in the concrete jungle, has been declared by “Zagat” and the “New York Times” as “The best hot dog in the world.”

The restaurant will feature a 1,558-square-foot space, which will be nearly three times larger than the New York locations, allowing for up to 54 guests with dine-in and take out options. The restaurant will offer its special recipe franks featuring 100 percent all-beef, made in New York City, and shipped to Las Vegas and tropical drinks.

SAM’S TOWN OPENS BIG MESS BAR-BQ

Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall on Boulder Highway opened its newest dining concept, the savory Big Mess Bar-BQ, a genuine smokehouse barbeque restaurant serving classic American fare with meats smoked in-house, plus classic comfort-food sides. All meats are dry-rubbed then smoked in-house in Big Mess’ massive smoker, named “Smokin’ Sam” in honor of Boyd Gaming co-founder Sam Boyd.

Located in Sam’s Town’s atrium Mystic Falls Park, Big Mess Bar-BQ is a casual, comfortable dining destination with a spacious dining room along with patio seating. An intimate private dining room is available for parties or special events.
Big Mess is the latest debut in Boyd Gaming’s $100 million campaign to reinvigorate property amenities nationwide.

TIVOLI VILLAGE EXPANDS AND RH RESTORATION OPENS

Tivoli Village has revealed its new extended layout, which includes the beautiful center piazza featuring floral sculptures, sections of landscaped greenery, and the stunning four-story national retailer Restoration Hardware(RH).

Additional retail tenants at the expansive center include: GracedByGrit; MarkieChar; Cherry Hills Market; The Shade Store; Alfred DuPont Concept; Ninush; Canter's Deli; Waffle Bar; and Operation North Pole.

RH is a luxury brand in home furnishings. The new grand-scale, classical contemporary building features artistic installations of home furnishings in gallery settings spread throughout 60,000 square feet of dramatic space. RH Las Vegas has a charcoal-grey Venetian plaster exterior, an expanse of glass-and-steel French doors, and Juliet balconies. There’s an extensive garden terrace on level three and a Rooftop Park and Conservatory with mature heritage olive trees. As night falls, the building is transformed through dramatic illumination, highlighting its architectural details and landscaping.

IL DIVO AND ARW–ANDERSON, RABIN & WAKEMAN PERFORM AT PALMS

Classical crossover group Il Divo will headline the Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms on Friday, Nov. 18 at 8 p.m. with tickets ranging from $69 to $159.

Simon Cowell brought together the multi-national four-member Il Divo group Urs Buhler, Sebastien Izambard, Carlos Marin and David Miller in 2003. Their groundbreaking debut album followed in 2004. Since then, they have achieved unparalleled success globally with 30 million album sales, 50 No. 1 Records, 160 gold and platinum awards in more than 33 countries and four sold out world tours.

ARW - singer Jon Anderson, guitarist Trevor Rabin and keyboardist Rick Wakeman, three former members of the progressive rock band Yes will perform on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $45 to $125.

THE LINQ PROMENADE HOLDS SECOND DIGITAL BAR CRAWL

The LINQ Promenade will host Las Vegas’ only digital bar crawl for the second time on Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, Nov. 23 to benefit Three Square Food Bank.

Participants will digitally check into each bar of which there are seven via The Royal Crawl app. The cost to crawl is $40 on the app, which includes four drinks and a standard ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel.

At each check-in location, crawlers will receive one digital playing card and be entered into a virtual poker game. The event includes stops at seven bars along The LINQ Promenade. At the end of the crawl, the best poker hands will win prizes.

The crawl runs from 8 p.m. to midnight with rides on The High Roller available until 2 a.m. Royal Crawl participating venues will include: ameriCAN Beer & Cocktails; Brooklyn Bowl; Chayo Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar; Flour & Barley – Brick Oven Pizza; Off The Strip Bistro & Bar; O’Sheas; and Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery. A portion of proceeds will benefit Three Square Food Bank. Each ticket sold will provide 15 meals to those in need.

KELLY CARDENAS SALON OPENS AT HARD ROCK

Kelly Cardenas Salon - A Paul Mitchell Focus Salon is now open at Hard Rock Hotel. Owned by business partners, celebrity stylist Kelly Cardenas and nightlife veteran Marc Jay, the salon fuses rock ‘n’ roll, fashion and luxury on the second floor next to the Reliquary Spa.

Guests enter to an edgy and upscale black-studded reception area before reaching the 2,475-square-foot spacious salon with chic white walls adorned with Kelly’s signature dreadlock logo. Stylists demonstrate their artistry at an open-air and mirrorless “Color Bar” designed to encourage conversation. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resort’s tropical poolside oasis radiate natural lighting. Minimalist and sleek styling stations boast Paul Mitchell products, blow dryers that drop from the ceiling, phone charging stations and a dedicated photo area to capture transformations. Kelly’s raved about “Wash House” concept transports guests to a state of nirvana with relaxing music and a one-of-a-kind shampoo experience. Makeup artists complete the look with makeup and eyelash application services available.

HOLIDAY SEASON HAPPENINGS

Flamingo Las Vegas headliners Donny and Marie Osmond will kick off the holiday season by lighting a 30-foot holiday tree at The LINQ Promenade on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. The special holiday performance outside will also include dancers from the Fern Adair Conservatory of The Arts and comedy magician Mac King, who currently performs at Harrah’s, as emcee.

The 28th Annual Festival of Trees and Lights Gala to benefit the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) will be held Friday, Nov. 18 at the South Point with a silent auction followed by dinner and awards ceremony and ending with the Live Auction from 8 to 10 p.m. Enlightening is the Display of Trees is open to the public along with planned family activities on Thursday, Nov. 17 from 1–8 p.m.

The Neon Museum’s annual “December to Remember” holiday celebration will take place Saturday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 6 p.m. It begins with ornament-making in the Boneyard Park and family photo ops with Santa in the North Gallery from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by hot chocolate and caroling by Las Vegas Academy choir in the illuminated Neon Museum Boneyard from 5 to 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

For the first time, the Neon Museum is offering mini-photo sessions on Saturday, Nov. 19; from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Families can book a 15-minute photo session in the North Gallery for $150.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE’S MAGICAL FOREST RETURNS

The fabulous 25th annual Magical Forest at Opportunity Village will once again flourish as a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, hundreds of dazzling trees, nightly entertainment, rides and food. Celebrating the 25th season makes it a silver anniversary and that will be a color theme this year. Located at 6300 W. Oakey Blvd., the Magical Forest will be open Nov. 19-Jan. 1 nightly at 5:30 p.m. except on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

General admission for 13-plus is $11.99 with ride tickets extra or a passport for $21.99, and child tickets are $9.99 or $18.99 for a passport with rides included.

ANIMAL FOUNDATION UNLEASHES FIFTH 5K AND FESTIVAL EVENT

The Animal Foundation’s fifth annual 5K and Festival: The Fast and Furriest sponsored by Hill’s Science Diet will take place at Sunset Park on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. To register for the Fast and Furriest 5K is $50 or 1-Mile Walk/Fun Run is $20, with all proceeds benefiting the 30,000 animals that enter The Animal Foundation each year. This family-friendly event also features pet-friendly vendors, a kids’ activity area, dog contests, and more.

For those without furry companions, The Animal Foundation’s rescue partners will be on site with dogs seeking loving homes offering the opportunity to adopt. The festival is free and open to the public.

SOUTH POINT HOSTS THE LAS VEGAS NATIONAL HORSE SHOW

The Las Vegas National Horse Show will be held at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center Tuesday, Nov. 15 through Sunday, Nov. 20. The challenging $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Las Vegas event will be Saturday, Nov. 19 at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $20. Competitions on Nov. 15-18 and Nov. 20 are free and open to the public.

The North American League is one among 16 taking part in the global FEI World Cup™ Jumping series, which has been in existence since 1978. This season includes 115 qualifiers in 43 countries, leading to the FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final next spring.

BENEFIT FOR MARK OTOOLE

Local singing personality Mark OToole, who has appeared all around the valley and at Cabaret Jazz at the Smith Center was doing very well and started performing his “Manilow” at Green Valley Ranch this past summer. With a new agent, he’s secured bookings for 2017 across the country and on cruise ships. Unfortunately this cancer survivor’s life has taken a tragic turn with a major medical setback that started with a cold and being over medicated by an Urgent Care facility. Now he’s lost his sight in one eye and is unable to walk. Medical bills are mounting and friends have mounted a benefit for him on Wednesday, Nov. 16 from 2:30 to 5 p.m. in Addison’s Lounge at The Rampart Casino. Suggested donation is $20 at the door, or visit a Go Fund Me page for Mark OToole.

DINING HURRAHS

Charlie Palmer Steak opened at the Four Seasons 17 years ago. The restaurant recently revealed its new multi-room renovated interior and façade, new Executive Chef and Pastry Chef, and two Master Sommeliers leading a renewed wine program.

Triple George Grill downtown has added more than 15 signature items to its menu this fall and is introducing new glegan (gluten-free and vegan) dishes in time for Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month.

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, the signature restaurant at SLS, will host a six-course wine pairing dinner on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. The dinner will feature Emmanuel Kemiji, owner of Miura Vineyards and managing director of Clos Pissarra, and Bazaar Meat lead sommelier Chloe Helfand. Cost is $165. For reservations, call 702-761-7610.

Martio Batali’s new “Big American Cookbook” features his interpretations of some outstanding recipes from all corners of the United States. On Friday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m., the “Big American Cookbook” extravaganza will feature a multi-course dinner for 40 guests. Batali’s Las Vegas chefs will select 10 of the book’s recipes for the one-night dining event at B&B Ristorante at The Venetian. The price is $135 and includes dinner, cocktails and an autographed cookbook by Batali.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Summerlin will acknowledge Black Friday by offering a 10 percent discount on their total dining bill to guests showing a receipt from the shopping center on Friday, Nov. 25.

QUICK TIPS

Several new retailers such as fashion haven A’GACI and a dog-friendly Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar are now open at Town Square. H&M will unveil its newly renovated store on Nov. 17 after completing a 6,500-square-foot expansion, bringing the total to more than 32,000-square-feet.

HEXX Kitchen + Bar at Paris has introduced a chocolate and wine tasting menu, which includes three wine offerings, each paired with a specific HEXX chocolate. The tasting experience is $39.95, call 702-331-5100.

Australian rock band Little River Band will headline the Golden Nugget on Friday, Nov 18, and the British Invasion band The Animals, who have rocked the music scene since 1962, will take center stage on Friday, Nov. 25.

WCK Muay Thai will bring the world’s best fighters together for a night of top-notch boxing and martial arts competition at Orleans Arena on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $24.

Towbin Motorcars is building the new Ferrari • Maserati of Las Vegas dealership set to open next summer at 5550 W. Sahara Ave. It will highlight state-of-the-art technology and a contemporary design. Towbin Motorcars acquired the former Penske Wynn Ferrari/Maserati dealership located at Wynn in late 2015 and added the automobiles to its existing portfolio, which includes Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Aston Martin.

There will be a free public concert at Lloyd D. George Federal Courthouse, 333 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Jury Assembly Room on Friday, Nov. 18 from noon to 1 p.m. Guests can even bring their lunch and listen to harpist Mariano Gonzales, percussionist Alfredo Alvarenga, and multi-instrumentalist Flavio; call 702-229-ARTS for information.

Global Fest – A Celebration of Folk Dance will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19 from noon to 4 p.m. at Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza in Lorenzi Park. This is also free. The family-friendly event will feature a variety of cultural dancers, musicians and culinary arts. Ethnic treats from around the world and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Las Vegas-based adult dessert brand, liquor infused Momenti Spirited Ice Creams has rolled out new limited-edition holiday flavors, Rum Raisin and Eggnog through Dec. 31 with a portion of the proceeds helping two local charities; New Vista and Send Me On Vacation.

The Color Me Kind 5K will take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19 in Henderson at Cornerstone Park, 1600 Wigwam Pkwy. The fun run has no official times or winners. It allows participants to share their kindness to fellow runners in a fun way. Individuals will be showered from head to toe in five different colors to create a kaleidoscope of kindness along Cornerstone Park Trail. Registration starts at $25.

The Wine Amplified Plugged-In event on Friday, Dec. 9 at The Joint at Hard Rock will feature country music star Gary Allan. Tickets are $50 and include a selection of more than 12 wines from a 3rd floor VIP perch overlooking the stage as well as admission to the show. As always, Founder’s Club Members get $10 off their tickets plus weekly complimentary wine tastings around the Las Vegas Valley every Thursday. Wine Amplified started a Wine of the Month Club that already has more than 2,000 members in its first five months. Membership includes an annual Founder’s Club Membership.

SOUTH POINT EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH STOTZ EQUIPMENT

South Point has signed a five-year deal with Stotz Equipment, an official John Deere licensed dealer with 25 locations in eight western states, to convert all of the property’s equipment to John Deere products to maintain more than 80-acres of the resort’s footprint. South Point has more than 40 weeks of equestrian and rodeo events scheduled this year. It is home to an equestrian event facility featuring 240,000 square feet of event space, three climate-controlled arenas, vet clinic, feed store, and more than 1,200 climate-controlled stalls.

ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION HOLDS ANNUAL ‘JINGLE BELL RUN’

The Las Vegas Chapter of The Arthritis Foundation will hold its annual fundraiser, “Jingle Bell Run,” a 10K and 5K timed race, on Dec. 10 at 8 a.m. at Tivoli Village. This holiday event is for the whole family including the dog(s). Everyone can show off their holiday costumes and run, walk, or partake of the activities including meeting local celebrities, a kids zone, petting zoo, shopping, music and entertainment, contests, games and prizes. To register for the “Jingle Bell Run,” visit www.JBR.org/LasVegas.

PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY CELEBRATES DECADE WITH FREE PARTY

The public is invited to join the Providence Master Planned Community celebrating its 10th anniversary with a birthday bash called Providence Pride – A Decade to Remember with different activities for the whole family at each of its three neighborhood parks. The event will be on Saturday, Nov. 19 from noon to 6 p.m. and shuttles will stop at each park. Providence is located in northwest Las Vegas off the I-215 North Beltway and Hualapai Way.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

RICKY MARTIN WILL ALSO HEADLINE PARK THEATER AT MONTE CARLO

Multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Ricky Martin is the next to announce he’ll be a resident headliner at Park Theater at Monte Carlo beginning April 5, 2017. He’ll be following Cher who begins in February. At his press announcement for his one-of-a-kind show that will be directed by the legendary Jamie King, who has directed more than two dozen tours for superstars, was his longtime friend Mario Lopez. Martin has been performing in all seven continents over the last three years touring the globe. Tickets range from $59.50 to $175 and dates are set so far for April, June, July and September.

PARK THEATER’S FIRST NON-MUSIC ACT WILL BE KATT WILLIAMS

Legendary stand-up comic and multi-talented entertainer Katt Williams will be the first comedian to take the stage at the all-new Park Theater at Monte Carlo Saturday, Jan. 7 at 9 p.m. Over his impressive 20-year career, Williams has earned a worldwide reputation as one of today’s top entertainers blending his rapid-fire wit with thought-provoking dialogue. He will bring his signature brand of sharp-tongued comedy and quick-witted antics center stage for a one-night-only special engagement. Tickets range from $49 to $85.

BRUNO MARS MAKES A VISIT TO LAS VEGAS

GRAMMY® Award-winning, multi-platinum selling artist Bruno Mars will start the North American leg of his 24K Magic Tour at the T-Mobile Arena Saturday, July 15, 2017. Tickets start at $49.50. The tour celebrates Mars’ new album, “24K Magic” currently being released worldwide on Atlantic Records.

FLAGSHIP TACO BELL CANTINA OPENS ON THE STRIP

Move over MacDonald’s, Taco Bell is going upscale with its new Taco Bell Cantina on the Strip across the street from CityCenter. The fast-food chains flagship venue is two-story with and outdoor patio. It is open 24/7 selling alcohol with an ingenious way to literally fill a beer glass from the bottom up and a freeze wall, containing eight different flavors. There will occasionally be a DJ.

JENNIFER NETTLES APPEARS AT THE FOUNDRY AT SLS

Grammy® Award-winning singer, songwriter Jennifer Nettles, will appear at The Foundry at SLS on Saturday, Dec. 3 during the 2016 National Finals Rodeo. Tickets start at $42.50.

Since exploding onto the music scene in 2004 as lead vocalist for international duo Sugarland, the decorated duo has earned eight No. 1 singles, more than 22 million in worldwide record sales, and numerous major music association awards.

On her own, the country superstar recently released her debut album with Big Machine Records, “Playing With Fire.” Nettles has been honored with the “Crystal Milestone Award” for being the first female artist to be the solo songwriter on an ACM “Song of the Year” winner since 1972.

Adding to her many accolades, in February 2015 Nettles made her Broadway debut as Roxy Hart in the Tony Award Winning musical “Chicago” and joined the cast of the NBC Dolly Parton television biopic, “Coat of Many Colors.”

ELECTRIC DAISY CARNIVAL ANNOUNCES 2017 DATES

The infamous Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) will return to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Friday through Sunday, June 16-18. Tickets will go on sale Monday, Nov. 28, at noon PT. Next year will mark 21 years for an entertainment phenomenon that began in Los Angeles and moved to Las Vegas as it now attracts more than 400,000 fans of electronic dance music. Early Owl three-day general-admission passes are $335, and three-day VIP tickets are $699. Performers will be announced at a later date.

EVEL PIE IS OPEN NOW ON EAST FREMONT STREET

Evel Pie, the all-American, one-of-a-kind pizzeria founded by hospitality group High Horse and operated in cooperation with Evel Knievel’s son Kelly, opened downtown on East Fremont Street. The new restaurant pays homage to the legendary motorcycle daredevil.

Inspired by classic American 1970s pizza shops, Evel Pie is decorated with Knievel memorabilia, a life-size taxidermied bighorn sheep, a hand-painted mural of Snake River Canyon, and an illuminated marquee sign bearing the restaurant’s motto, “Live Hard, Ride Fast, Eat Pizza.” In between slices, guests can try their luck on a vintage Evel Knievel-themed pinball machine and stunt cycle arcade game.

EBI’S JANE JAVANI WORLD TOUR STOPS BY THE COLOSSEUM

Legendary Iranian singer Ebrahim Hamedi best known as “Ebi” to his millions of fans across the world will make a tour stop at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 9 p.m. Throughout his 50 year career, Ebi released more than 30 albums and close to 100 singles, performed sold out shows across the world, and continuously released an endless string of hits.

‘LEGENDS IN CONCERT’ PERFORMS ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW

“Legends in Concert,” Las Vegas’ longest-running show now at the Flamingo, will greet the season with an annual holiday show running Monday, Nov. 21 through Dec. 29.

Garth Brooks, portrayed by Dean Simmons, will perform an acoustic version of “The Christmas Song;” Michael Jackson, played by Damian Brantley, will deliver holiday cheer with “Santa Claus is Coming to Town;” Sharon Owens as Barbra Streisand will sing her “Jingle Bells;” and Elvis, created by Victor Trevino, will warm hearts with “Blue Christmas.”

In addition, local youth choirs and performing arts groups will perform and there will be full cast finale delivering “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” The Legends band will pay a sensational tribute to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Christmas Eve in Sarajevo” (“Carol of the Bells”).

TERRY FATOR ADDS DAVID BOWIE PUPPET TO CHRISTMAS SHOW

Terry Fator’s holiday-themed show, “A Very Terry Christmas,” will run at The Mirage Monday, Nov. 28 through Thursday, Dec.22. A new addition this year will be a simultaneous duet between Fator’s new David Bowie puppet and Bing Crosby. Fator’s other lovable characters Winston, the Impersonating Turtle, Vikki “The Cougar,” country legend Walter T. Airdale, Duggie Scott Walker, Julius, Emma Taylor, the world’s greatest Elvis impersonator Maynard Tompkins and Latin heartthrob Fernando V. Francisco will also be performing.

The show’s pre-show opener is still Ben Harris, who plays music and keeps the audience uplifted even before the show begins. Tickets start at $59.99

SAM’S TOWN HAS NEW WINTER WONDERLAND LASER LIGHT SHOW

Sam’s Town will reveal an all-new, nine-minute, holiday-inspired laser light show, The Winter Wonderland, at Mystic Falls Park on Tuesday, Nov. 22 at a tree lighting ceremony. Comprehensive upgrades include updates to the show’s control equipment, sound system, lighting effects and fountain effects, and a new soundtrack. Performances run daily and occur every hour beginning at 5 p.m.
In addition, Sam’s Town is also debuting a new look for its holiday decorations. The theme gives guests a glimpse inside Santa’s workshop and they can visit Cowboy Santa in the gazebo from Friday, Nov. 25 through Dec. 23. Visiting hours are Thursdays and Fridays 4 p.m.–8:30 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays noon to 8:30 p.m.

Sam’s Town is also hosting Cell Phones for Soldiers. Guests are encouraged to bring cell phones and chargers to the B Connected desk or hotel front desk through Wednesday, Nov. 30. Guests who donate cell phones will receive one free dining coupon to Firelight Buffet with the purchase of another buffet.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND ACTION NEWS

New on the Strip, The Park’s first tree lighting ceremony is Monday, Nov. 21 to illuminate 13,000 lights on the 60-foot-tall holiday tree adorned with 3,000 ornaments. The Park is being transformed into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink and decorated throughout with white twinkle lights, branches sparkling with icicles, crystal blooms and 16-foot-tall Ornament Tunnels.

Tivoli Village in its recently expanded Phase 2 will open Operation North Pole, a 65-minute holiday hands-on workshop and interactive experience alongside Santa and his elves from Nov. 25-Dec. 25. The experience includes a charming candy cottage, freshly baked treats in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, meeting Santa's reindeers in the stable, a visit with Santa in his office space and a photo with him, and the opportunity to take home a plush teddy bear. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Ticket range is $28 - $36.

The Fashion Show mall in The Great Hall has Adventure to Santa - A DreamWorks DreamPlace returning this year with a new experience featuring a cast from Kung Fu Panda through Dec. 24. The experience includes two new interactive games, a keepsake family passport and Kung Fu Panda themed greeting card. Photo packages are available. Also, there will be a Kids Day on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 1-5 p.m.

For the fifth consecutive year, The Cosmopolitan will have The Ice Rink by transforming the Boulevard Pool into a winter wonderland high above the Strip from Nov. 25 through Jan. 2.

One of Las Vegas’ favorite holiday traditions is the Nevada Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker.” From Dec. 10-24, there will be 11 performances over three weekends, including Christmas Eve. Tickets range from $29 to $149.

The tree lighting at MonteLago Village kicked off a slate of holiday-themed activities including: yacht cruises with Santa Claus; Christmas Express train rides; Santa visits; holiday baking event; winter-themed art show; canned food drive; Thanksgiving specials; New Year’s Eve fireworks; and more. Most events are free, and most will take place on Saturdays.

Downtown Container Park will celebrate the Christmas season with Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus on The Lawn on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes a breakfast menu, a photo and decorating a holiday cookie. Tickets are $30 for adult, $35 at the door, and $15 for kids ages 12 and under.

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT HOLDS ANNUAL ‘SUITE HOLIDAYS’ EVENT

Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada will hold its sixth annual “Suite Holidays” fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 3-10 p.m. with participants touring five of the city’s over-the-top hotel suites. Guests will have an exclusive cocktail party in VIP suites not typically accessible to the general public while enjoying gourmet bites prepared by participating chefs. Complimentary shuttle service is provided between properties.

There’s a limited amount of tickets beginning at $200. Participating resorts and showcased suite currently lined up include: Rio’s Palazzo Suites; SLS’ Lenny Kravitz Suite; Golden Nugget’s Spa Tower Suite and Rush Tower Chairman Penthouse; and the Plaza’s Derby Suite Penthouse.

BOULDER CITY WILL TRANSFORM INTO WINTER WONDERLAND

Nearby Boulder City is a hidden gem and just like a charming picture book. The historical town will come to life with holiday events beginning Friday, Dec. 2 with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in the center of the quaint town at Frank Crowe Park at 6 p.m. where fun-loving Jingle Cat will make an appearance.

On Saturday, Dec. 3, the Chamber of Commerce will present Santa’s Picture Party from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. in the Boulder City Recreation Center for the kids. Santa’s Electric Night Parade beginning at 4:30 p.m. is really quite a holiday spectacle right down the main drag with lighted decorative floats, marching bands and musical groups. The event serves as a perfect pre-party to the 40th annual Lake Mead Parade of Lights at 6:30 p.m. and viewable from the Lake Mead Marina.

The Santa Train at the Nevada Southern Railway has Santa and Mrs. Claus joining on this festive holiday train ride. Tickets are $6 and seats are first come first serve. Rides are on Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 19 and 20 with departures as 10 and 11 a.m., noon, and 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

The 4th annual Pajama Train rides are at night time a visit from Santa Claus, storytelling and tasty hot chocolate and cookies. Tickets start at $20 for Coach Class. Rides are Dec. 9, 17, 18, 21, 22 and 23 at 6 and 8 p.m.

On Saturday, Dec. 10 will be the annual Night of Lights presented by St. Jude’s Ranch with hay rides, treats, live entertainment and more. Admission is free and open to the public from 5-8 p.m. at St. Jude’s Ranch.

CIGARBOX REOPENS JUST OFF STRIP

Cigarbox, a popular neighborhood cigar destination that opened in 2008 on South Rancho Drive, is back with a new location west of the Strip; a few blocks south of W. Flamingo Ave. at 4046 Dean Martin Dr. Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.

The new, 2,300-square-foot upscale cigar bar offers a spacious, well-ventilated space with 26-foot-tall ceilings and a humidor with a cigar expert on hand. The modern design incorporates an industrial loft-style setting with oversized, comfortable furniture, televisions, an eclectic art collection, a bar with wine, beer, coffee drinks and spirits, as well as snacks. The design is also designed to operate as a co-working space with a rectangular table meant for meetings and laptops.

MICHAEL BOYCHUCK GAINS GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Intercoiffure, the world’s most powerful and influential organization in the hairdressing industry, has made Michael Boychuck of COLOR Salon at Caesars Palace an official Intercoiffure member after 30 years of distinguished hair styling and celebrity colorist experience. Boychuck joins Intercoiffure’s top one percent of the world’s leading salon owners acknowledged for their respected reputations in the industry. In addition, COLOR Salon joins the prestigious organization as Las Vegas’ only Intercoiffure-recognized salon.

ABOUT TOWN NEWS ITEMS

Yet another show has closed at the Tropicana. “Band of Magicians” only lasted about three weeks with four likable magicians sharing the limelight. It wasn’t a big production spectacle like you see with other Strip magic headliners such as David Copperfield and Criss Angel. It seemed like it would have been better as a smaller afternoon show.

The pre-Thanksgiving “Battle Cry for Pumpkin Pie” Eating Contest will be held Tuesday, Nov. 22, at noon at the Grand Bazaar Shops to support two great local nonprofits. Guests will be able to participate in fun-filled activities happening around the center and a $10 donation to either charity will receive a $10 shopping voucher to use at most of the Grand Bazaar Shops.

The Promenade at Juhl, encompassing 20,000 square feet of retail space on the ground level of a 344–residence, multi-building community spanning an entire city block downtown, just opened with seven new retailers and two more coming soon. In the food arena there is Greens & Proteins featuring a menu full of healthy comfort foods, vegan, raw and vegetarian options for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with the Vietnamese kitchen specializing in fast, fresh and simple dishes by owner Chef Khai Vu. The cocktail lounge Classic Jewel serves up drink options that pay homage to Vegas of yesteryear. The bar is owned by a team of friends, three who live at Juhl.

SLS is offering a Cyber Holiday Sale exclusively online. Guests who book from Nov. 19–Dec. 4 will enjoy 50 percent off room rates starting from $41 through May 25, 2017.

GRACEDBYGRIT, a high-performance women’s athletic apparel company based in Solana Beach, Calif., make its Las Vegas debut at Tivoli Village Nov. 18.

The Ride, a premium indoor cycling studio specializing in high-energy workouts for all fitness levels, will open in mid-December in the Mall at Grand Canyon Parkway near Flamingo Road and the 215 Beltway. The Ride offers 1,000 complimentary rides for early bird sign-ups and has SC3 custom bikes, the newest, most advanced on the market.

Author, dating coach and star of A&E’s critically-acclaimed show “Confessions of a Matchmaker,” Patti Novak, will make her return to television later this month when she is featured on OWN’s “Oprah: Where Are They Now” on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 10 p.m. She moved to Las Vegas four years ago.

DUNKIN’ DONUTS LAS VEGAS HOLDS 4TH ANNUAL ‘ADOPT-A-FAMILY’

Dunkin’ Donuts Las Vegas will hold its fourth annual “Adopt-A-Family” drive benefitting Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10 adopting 12 families. During that time, guests can visit any Southern Nevada restaurant and select an “ornament” listing an item needed for that family. Upon returning to that Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant with the item, the guest will receive one free medium hot or iced coffee, or donut for their donation.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘CHRISTMAS CROONER’ WILL BE HOLIDAY BENEFIT SHOW AT WESTGATE

The inaugural star-studded holiday benefit show “Christmas Crooner” will be held at the Westgate on Sunday, Dec. 18 at 3 p.m. in the Westgate International Theater. The show will feature performances from “Million Dollar Quartet” star Marc D. Donovan and special guests, including the Swing City Dolls, Clint Holmes, Chris Phillips, Michelle Johnson, Graham Fenton and Justin Shandor, among others. All proceeds from the event will be donated directly to nonprofit Foster Change to provide support, resources and empowerment for foster, kinship, and adoptive families of Southern Nevada. Tickets are $34.75, $49.75, and $64.75.

Donovan is known for his role as Sam Phillips in “Million Dollar Quartet” at Harrah’s as well as his role as Sheriff Ramsey on the HBO series “Boardwalk Empire.” However, Donovan’s most important role to date has been that of a foster parent.

ORLEANS ARENA HOSTS ‘CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR’

The “Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular” will bring family fun and holiday spirit to the Orleans Arena on Wednesday, Dec. 14. A portion of the show’s proceeds will benefit The Public Education Foundation. Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $29.

This show features an incredible assortment of acrobats, aerialists and hijinks, all set to the tune of classic holiday songs performed live by the Las Vegas Philharmonic orchestra featuring 76 contracted professional musicians and led by music director Donato Cabrera.

FAST ENTERTAINMENT CLIPS

Mentioned last week Bruno Mars will start the North American leg of his 24K Magic Tour at the T-Mobile Arena Saturday, July 15, 2017. Already due to popular demand, Mars has added two Las Vegas performance dates at Park Theater at Monte Carlo over Labor Day Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 2-3.

“You Light Up My Life” songstress Debby Boone will return to the Suncoast Showroom with her “Swing This” show on Dec. 9-10. In 2008, Billboard’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Chart-Topping Songs ranked Boone’s 1977 hit song at No. 7. In June 2013, Boone released her 13th album, “Swing This.” Tickets are available from $17.50.

Hakkasan Group’s newest addition to its 2017 talent lineup is German-bred musician Anton Zaslavsi, better known as Zedd. The multi-platinum selling artist with the hit “Clarity” will make his debut Saturday, Jan. 7 at OMNIA Nightclub inside Caesars Palace.

WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO WEEK NEWS

The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR), which has been in Las Vegas since 1985, holds the actual rodeo action at the Thomas & Mack Center on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus. Each of the 10 days, audience’s witness the top 15 money winners compete in each of seven different events: bull riding, bareback riding, calf roping, saddle bronc riding, team roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. The whole city goes country with shows and parties.

If you don’t have rodeo tickets, there a couple viewing party choices that are nightly Dec. 1-10. The Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC), a 20,000-square-foot venue space, will be transformed into a country-themed celebration with free entry, live-action viewing parties, food options, and nightly entertainment. The Wrangler NFR Countdown Show and Live Viewing Party at the MGM Grand will have Jen and Stran Smith offering a behind-the-scenes look at previous night’s rides plus interviews with rodeo legends, musicians, prizes from Wrangler and MGM and much more. Tickets start at $15.

Old Dominion and Sawyer Brown will headline the 30th Annual Downtown Hoedown, a free event downtown on Wednesday, Nov. 30 that officially kicks off the WNFR week and the start of 12 Days of Country at the Fremont Street Experience. Top country talent will begin entertaining at 4:30 p.m. and end with headliner performances from Sawyer Brown at 8:40 p.m. on the 1st Street Stage and Old Dominion at 9:50 p.m. on the 3rd Street Stage. There will be additional performances from Craig Campbell, Aaron Watson, High Valley and Jackson Michelson on Fremont Street Experience’s three stages.

Sawyer Brown has more than three decades of creating 50+ chart singles including country smash hits like “Some Girls Do,” “Step That Step,” “Thank God For You,” and their most recent single “We Got the Night.” Old Dominion spent their summer on Kenny Chesney’s “Spread The Love Tour” and released their first full-lenth album “Meat and Candy.”

The most vested hotel in WNFR headliner entertainment is the Golden Nugget with 10 p.m. shows at the Grand Event Center that follow the actual rodeo. The awesome lineup includes: Dec. 1 Terri Clark, the first Canadian woman inducted into the Grand Ole Opry; Dec. 2-3 Lynyrd Skynyrd; Dec. 4 Tanya Tucker with her trademark song “Delta Dawn;” Dec. 5 Brenda Lee; Dec. 6 Charlie Daniels Band; Dec. 7 38 Special; Dec. 8 A Wynonna & The Big Noise Christmas; and Dec. 9 Trace Adkins.

Other phenomenal about town headliners will include: Reba Brooks & Dunn “Together in Vegas” at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace with 7:30 p.m. shows Nov. 30, Dec. 2-3, 7, 9 and 10; George Strait at T-Mobile Arena on Dec. 2-3 at 8 p.m.; Toby Keith on Friday, Dec. 9 at the MGM Grand at 9 p.m. followed by Tim McGraw on Saturday, Dec. 10; and Dec. 1-10 Rodney Carrington with his “Here Comes The Truth” show at 10 p.m.
Country singer Frankie Ballard will bring his hits “Young & Wild” and “Sunshine and Whiskey” to the live music venue The Foundry at SLS during the 2016 National Finals Rodeo on Friday, Dec. 2. Grammy® Award-winning singer, songwriter Jennifer Nettles will follow on Saturday, Dec. 3. Tickets start at $42.50.

At Vinyl inside the Hard Rock Hotel, shows will be at 10 p.m. featuring the following acts with a cover charge: Dec. 2 Mark Wills; Dec. 3 Sam Riggs; Dec. 7 American Icon: and Johnny Cash Tribute starring Doug Allen Nash. Acts with no cover charge include: Dec. 4-5 Thrillbilly Deluxe; CJ Simmons Dec. 6 and 8; Dec. 9-10 Seth Turner and The High Desert Drifters.

Rodeo time also means shopping! The Cowboy Christmas Gift Show is the longest running and only “original” gift show of the WNFR. Running Dec.1-10, the show is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the North Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. More than 300,000 square feet of show floor hosts 400 plus vendors from across the United States and Canada offering a vast selection of products including customized jewelry, western wear, boots and spurs, saddles, roping gear, furniture, original art, handmade crafts, as well as a great selection of Official Wrangler NFR and PRCA merchandise.

The Nevada Barbecue Association will hold its fourth annual Downtown Throwdown Barbecue Championships on Dec. 9-10 during the WNFR. The prize money is $10,000. The event features a Chili Cook-Off on Friday night and Barbecue Cook-Off, in which the public is invited to enjoy samples.

Crazy Horse III will host for “Chicks ‘n’ Chaps,” a rodeo celebration with Jack Daniels, Bud Beer and Jack Fire shot specials Dec. 1-10. With proof of rodeo attendance, there’s complimentary entry as well as a Jack Daniels or Bud Beer beverage.

Shows giving folks a break from the rodeo include: Dec. 2-3 Adam Sandler, Norm Macdonald, Rob Schneider, & Tim Meadows and Surprise Special Guests at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel at 9 p.m.; and Maxwell and Mary J. Blige with their “King and Queen of Hearts Tour” at T-Mobile Arena on Friday, Dec. 9.

NEXT MAY WILL EXPLODE WITH MOTOCROSS AND SUPERCROSS RACING

The AMSOIL Arenacross featuring intense motocross racing will be held Friday, May 5 at the Orleans Arena at 8 p.m. with tickets starting at $29. Fearless and highly talented athletes will compete on man-made dirt battlegrounds built inside arenas for 19 nights of high-speed, high flying racing competition in 13 different states with the finals taking place in Las Vegas.

The 2017 Monster Energy AMA Supercross will be held Saturday, May 6 with a Pit Party opening at noon and opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. at Sam Boyd Stadium. Tickets start at $46.

An American original, this championship is part aerial excitement and part high-speed chase on the track. In addition, Monster Energy Supercross establishes itself as an all-day affair by starting with the pre-race Pit Party with unprecedented access to the athletes, their teams, and supporting sponsors for a lifestyle event. Entry to the Pit Party costs just $10 at the gate.

RANDOM BLURBS

It was a surprise that the 200-room Lucky Dragon hotel-casino, the first resort built from the ground up in Las Vegas since The Cosmopolitan was completed in 2010, opened earlier than its Dec. 3 date when celebratory events will be held. Dominate is the good luck 1¼-ton glass dragon sculpture centerpiece that’s 23-feet tall. The property has five restaurants on the atrium level and houses a tea garden with its own tea sommelier.

The Hard Rock Cafe on Paradise Road built in 1990 with the jumbo corner Guitar sign will close Dec. 31. Maybe the closing was inevitable after Hard Rock International in 2009 opened the three-story café on the Strip with the LIVE third-floor music venue, outdoor balcony dining, the world’s largest Rock Shop, and an interactive Rock Wall.

Even on the Strip, not every restaurant survives. After 19 years, the free-standing Harley-Davidson Cafe with a famous motorcycle on the building’s front side closed for good last month.

The “hypnotic” entertainer Kevin Lepine is celebrating his one-year anniversary on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Binion’s Gambling Hall downtown with his hypnosis show infused with stand-up comedy nightly except Monday at 8:30 p.m.

“Country Superstars” tribute show at Hooters closed last week, just missing the rodeo coming to town.

GRACEDBYGRIT, a high-performance women’s athletic apparel company conceived during a run between two entrepreneurs and based in Solana Beach, Calif., is open at Tivoli Village. Founded in 2013, all manufacturing is done in San Diego with fabrics imported from Italy.

Rockhouse Las Vegas, the “ultra-dive bar” inside the Venetian, is enjoying its tenth anniversary, and on Thursday nights from 9 p.m. to midnight celebrates with live-band karaoke.

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar will hold a wine-pairing “Tartufi e La Spinetta” dinner on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. and feature selections from La Spinetta’s Tuscany and Piedmont wineries. The menu will include four La Spinetta wine selections paired with dishes incorporating Italian white truffles. Tickets are $250, call 702-364-5300.

Entering its fifth season, Wet’n’Wild at 7055 S. Fort Apache Road is now selling 2017 Season Passes and as an added value, a Season Pass payment plan that splits the cost into three monthly installments, starting as low as $16.33. Passes on three levels are $46.99, $66.99 and $96.99.

VENETIAN HOLDS EXTRAVAGANT WEEKEND CULINARY EVENT ‘ULTIMO’

Extravagant culinary event Ultimo – A Weekend of Excellence with the theme “Le Grand Voyage,” will be held Dec. 9-11. This will be the fourth-annual event hosted by The Venetian and The Palazzo with include lavish feasts and exceptional experiences from an all-star lineup of chefs and wineries from around the world and be the most ambitious to date. Packages cost $4,551 and $5,751 per couple.

Several unique experiences will include: the Rolls-Royce driving experience; a hot-air balloon ride and Dom Perignon picnic at Red Rock Canyon National Recreation Area, located 20 miles from the Las Vegas Strip; and a Louis Vuitton fashion experience at the resort’s new boutique.

A highlight of the weekend will include the return of the signature event The Venetian’s Grand Banquet, a landmark collaboration between several of the world’s best chefs, including renowned culinary luminaries Chefs Thomas Keller, Jérôme Bocuse, Emma Bengtsson, Curtis Stone, Ming Tsai, Vikram Vij, Pierre Thiam, Paul Bartolotta and Shaun Hergatt.

A portion of the proceeds from the weekend-long event will benefit ment’or BKB Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to inspiring culinary excellence in young professionals and preserving the traditions and quality of cuisine in America.

MORE HOLIDAY SHOWS AND NEWS

The annual Las Vegas Great Santa Run, now a holiday tradition, will take place at the Fremont Street Experience on Saturday, Dec. 3 with more than 10,000 Santas competing in this race benefitting the local nonprofit organization, Opportunity Village. The Fremont Street Experience’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held Tuesday, Dec. 6 with Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman and Santa Claus lighting Downtown’s 50-foot tree decked with festive decorations shining below the 12.5 million lights of the Viva Vision® canopy.

“Home for the Holidays with Rita Moreno” will be held at The Smith Center on Saturday Dec. 3 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. This is the Las Vegas Philharmonic’s traditional holiday family-friendly concert that will include Rita Moreno lending her voice to the narration of Sergei Prokofiev’s timeless classic, “Peter and the Wolf.” The show will include selections from “The Nutcracker” and audience sing-a- long of holiday favorites accompanied by Las Vegas’ world-class orchestra.

World-renowned Elvis Presley tribute artist and winner of major competitions, Brandon Bennett will shed the leather jumpsuits and deliver a holiday performance, “A Very Vegas Christmas,” paired with big band arrangements and classic holiday hits at the Suncoast Showroom Dec. 2-3. Tickets start at $17.50.

Aliante will feature a “Peter White Christmas” with saxophonist Rick Braun and trumpeter Euge Groove on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. Acoustic guitarist White has been performing contemporary jazz for four decades.Tickets start at $48.50.

There will be a Christmas Cocktail Cruise on the decorated La Contessa Yacht sailing around the 320-acre lake at the Lake Las Vegas on Friday, Dec. 2 from 7-10 p.m. The evening includes four pairings of chocolate with two custom crafted cocktails, one beer and one champagne, cheese and entertainment by the Paul Charles Band for $40. Formal attire is required and attendees must be 21.

Also at Lake Las Vegas will be and hour-long Santa Cruise perfect for children setting sail at 11 a.m. on Dec. 10 and at 1:30 on Dec. 3 and 17. Admisison is $20.

In addition, children can visit Santa Claus at the MonteLago Village gazebo from noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 10 and from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Dec. 3 and 17. There also will be free Christmas Express train rides and $1 hot cocoa or peppermint hot cocoa at Seasons Grocery from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on those Saturdays.

A winter wonderland has arrived at The LINQ Promenade with a centerpiece 35-foot holiday tree that was lit by Donny & Marie Osmond. The holiday celebration continues with the annual Winter PARQ through Friday, Dec. 30. A winter show happens at 6 p.m. each night featuring holiday performers at the top of every hour through 10 p.m. Snow will also fall nightly across the promenade, every 30 minutes from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas in Primm, Nev., about a half hour drive from Las Vegas will be hosting a holiday touch with Sunday carolers strolling throughout the center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vegas Voices will perform on Dec. 4 and 18 and the Barbershop Quartet will appear on Dec. 11.

Three award-winning Hawaiian Music Masters and ordained kahu (ministers) will share Hawaiian hymn holiday traditions at The Smith Center in Cabaret Jazz Dec. 2-3. Featured are four-time Grammy-winner and master slack key guitarist George Kahumoku Jr, National Heritage Fellow Uncle Richard Ho‘opi‘i, renowned for ‘ukulele and leo ki`eki`e (Hawaiian falsetto), and multi-award-winning slack key guitarist Kawika Kahiapo. Tickets are $35-$55.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

IL VOLO WILL MAKE TOUR STOP AT PARK THEATER AT MONTE CARLO

IL VOLO will bring their “Notte Magica - A Tribute to The Three Tenors” tour to Park Theater at Monte Carlo on Saturday, March 25 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $55.

The powerhouse trio with three young singers, tenors Piero Barone and Ignazio Boschetto and baritone Gianluca Ginoble, will be paying homage to their biggest inspiration, The Three Tenors. The performance will be like the concert they filmed in Florence last July at Italy’s famed Piazza di Santa Croce for a PBS special. The ensemble will be joined by original Three Tenors member Placido Domingo.

In just a few years IL VOLO have performed worldwide, released top-selling albums, toured with Barbra Streisand, and taken the stage for four acclaimed PBS specials. They always deliver live performances of pop and traditional English, Italian and Spanish songs, accompanied by symphony orchestras. Michele Torpedine, who discovered and managed Andrea Bocelli, also discovered this vocal group and manages them.

THE MALUMA WORLD TOUR WILL VISIT THE COSMOPOLITAN

Latin music’s youth idol Maluma who has been conquering Latin America will bring his first U.S. tour, the Maluma World Tour, to The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan Friday, March 24. Ticket range is $20 - $99.50.

At age 22, Maluma is one of the industry’s most important new voices. Born Juan Luis Londoño, he formulated his artistic moniker Maluma from the first two letters of the names of his mother, father and sister. In 2013, Maluma received a Latin GRAMMY® nomination for Best New Artist. In 2015, he received another GRAMMY nod for Best Urban Song and performed at both internationally-televised ceremonies.

Maluma is one of social media’s most popular artists with more than 21 million Facebook fans, 3.3 million Twitter followers, and a whopping 17.4 million Instagram followers making him the leading Latin male artist on Instagram. His official YouTube/VEVO channel has garnered more than one billion views.

POP STAR RICK ASTLEY WILL HEADLINE THE PEARL AT THE PALMS

Pop superstar Rick Astley is returning to Las Vegas for a special performance at the Pearl inside the Palms on Saturday, Jan. 21. Tickets start at $29.

Astley became an overnight success in the 1980s with his rich, deep voice and well-crafted dance-pop when he was discovered by producer Pete Waterman in 1985 while singing in the English soul band FBI. After that, Waterman’s production team helped him craft pop singles like “Never Gonna Give You Up” and “Together Forever.”

After two top albums in the United States and the United Kingdom, Astley severed connections with the team and resurfaced in 1991 with the soul-injected “Free,” which had the Top-10 hit, “Cry for Help.” After a hiatus throughout the rest of the 1990s, Astley returned with 2001’s “Keep It Turned On,” 2005’s “Portrait” and his latest album, “50,” released in June 2016.

REBA, BROOKS & DUNN ANNOUNCE EXTENSION AT CAESARS PALACE

Country music icons Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn will continue at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace next year. The trio will be calling the venue home for their hit Las Vegas residency for at least one more year. The extension makes “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Vegas” the longest running country music residency at The Colosseum since the venue opened in 2003. Twelve new shows have been scheduled June 21-July 2 and Nov. 29-Dec. 9. Previously announced 2017 show dates already on-sale are: Feb. 22, 24, 25 and March 1, 3, and 4.

PARKING FEE REALITY

Say it isn’t so! It was just a matter of time before other Strip resorts jumped on the MGM Resorts International’s bandwagon to charge for parking, which they started in June. At MGM Resorts properties, the maximum parking fee is $10 per day and $18 per day for valet.

The Wynn Las Vegas and Encore will be the next major Strip resorts to follow suit. They will start by charging for valet services beginning in the middle of this month. Fees will be $13 for four hours, $18 for four to 23 hours, and $18 for each additional 24 hours. For now self-parking in the garages will remain free.

Following soon after, Caesars Entertainment Corp. with nine hotel-casinos on the Strip will launch fees for valet and self-parking. Their off-Strip Rio property will be excluded. They will begin at The Linq and Harrah’s in late December starting with valet services.

Some exemptions come with the MGM’s MLife rewards program and for Caesars Entertainment with the Total Rewards loyalty program.

PHILANTHROPIC EVENT MONDAYS DARK TURNS THREE

The 3rd Anniversary of Mondays Dark will be on Monday, Dec. 19 at The Joint inside Hard Rock at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 and $50 VIP.

Event founder Mark Shunock, will again host the Mondays Dark celebration he began back in 2013 while starring in the hit Broadway musical, “Rock of Ages.” Shunock, who has won many acknowledgements, wanted to give back and support local charities so he enlisted some of his entertainer friends and started Mondays Dark. The ticket proceeds from the 3rd Anniversary of Mondays Dark will benefit the 11 charities featured in 2016.

Mondays Dark will double up for 2017 with 22 charities being helped and it will move to a new home. The Space is a new community-driven, charity-based multi-arts complex opening Jan. 5 at 3460 Cavaretta Court.

HOUSE OF BLUES WELCOMES ‘THE END IS HERE’ TOUR

Falling in Reverse, Issues, and Motionless in White will head out in January for “The End Is Here” Tour and make a stop Jan. 15 at House of Blues at Mandalay Bay with a 6 p.m. show. Dangerkids and Dead Girls Academy join the tour as support. Tickets start at $27.50.

Falling In Reverse is currently working on new material for their next album, the follow up to 2015’s “Just Like You,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Independent Current Album chart, landed at No. 3 for Current Alternative Album, No. 21 in the Billboard Top 200, and took the No. 13 spot on the Top Current Album chart.

MINT INDIAN BISTRO OPENS SECOND LOCATION

Restaurateurs and husband-wife duo Kris and Bindi Parikh have opened their second Mint Indian Bistro location in Spring Valley at 4246 South Durango Drive. The new restaurant provides patrons a space for private parties around a live tandoor for up to 40 guests, a 250-capacity banquet hall, and a sports bar featuring beer and wine by the ounce. The new location has a 7,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art kitchen and an open dining area with The Lassi Bar at center stage.

The updated menu has a variety of authentic North and South Indian dishes and Indo-Chinese fusion food a.k.a. Hakka cuisine. It also caters to various dietary requirements like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

The new location serves a lunch buffet daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., a-la-carte dinner from 3 to 10 p.m. weeknights, and from 3 to 11:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

GLITTERING LIGHTS HAS NEW VIP SANTA TRAM ATTRACTION

This year there are two ways to experience Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS), by the carload and open-air tram rides. The new adventure, Santa Tram powered by AAA is a date and time specific attraction. Reservations must be pre-purchased at glitteringlights.vegas.com. Tickets are $35, and lap children 2-years-old and younger are free.

The new VIP attraction boards at Exotics Racing Dec. 9, 10, 11, and 16-24 with trams departing from 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. Guests will nosh on North Pole popcorn, enjoy hot cocoa, play giant yard games, and have mini-train rides and photos with Santa all in an indoor/outdoor lounge area. The adventure includes the magical tram ride through the millions of dazzling lights displays with Ralphie, The Elf Conductor, driving.

MALAYSIAN POP SUPERSTAR FISH LEONG MAKES PARK THEATER DEBUT

Award-winning Malaysian pop superstar and proclaimed “Queen of Love Songs” Fish Leong will bring her performance style and beloved ballads to the new Park Theater at Monte Carlo on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from range from $78 to $208.

Following the launch of her career in Taiwan in the late ‘90s, Leong has conducted four successful world tours. She continues to gain notoriety for her ever-popular karaoke hits and collaborations with celebrated Asian pop stars such as Ashin Chen and Christine Fan.

CANADIAN ROCK STAR BURTON CUMMINGS RETURNS TO ORLEANS

Musician and songwriter Burton Cummings, who began his career in the 1960s as lead singer of Canadian rock band The Guess Who, will return to The Orleans Showroom on Jan. 11-12 at 9 p.m. each night to perform his hits. Tickets start at $39.95.
The group produced hits “These Eyes,” “American Woman,” “Hang On To Your Life” and many more. The band became the first Canadian group to reach No. 1 on the United States Hot 100 charts.

As a solo artist in 1976, Cummings earned a Gold record for his debut single, “Stand Tall.” More hits followed including “I’m Scared,” “My Own Way to Rock” and “Timeless Love.” Cummings continued his career by starring in several top-rated television specials, going on tour as a member of Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band, and releasing his first live solo album, “Massey Hall,” in 2012.

SOCIETY OF SEVEN BRINGS HAWAII SPIRIT TO THE SUNCOAST

Some nice news, Society of Seven will be performing at the Suncoast Showroom with its versatile and light-hearted variety show Dec. 17-18 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $38.
The famed Hawaiian-based group has been entertaining for more than 40 years. Their energetic show combines comedy sketches, celebrity impersonations, dance, and live music featuring Top-40 hits, Broadway tunes, etc. Formed in the 1960s as The Fabulous Echoes, the group found its initial success in Asia and their rendition of “A Little Bit of Soap” went No. 1 on Hong Kong charts and stayed there for an unprecedented 32 weeks. While performing in Hawaii in 1968, the group was renamed Society of Seven and was later named the “Best Show in Waikiki” by “Honolulu Magazine” readers.

JOHN WESLEY AUSTIN PERFORMS AT LAUGH FACTORY DURING RODEO

While the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR) is in town through Dec. 10, the Laugh Factory at the Tropicana has booked one of the top cowboy comedians John Wesley Austin (JWA) Dec, 5-11. Fellow comedian Marc Yaffee will share the stage while Cisco is the featured host. Shows are at 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. and tickets range from $34.95 to $54.95.

Austin has been working the rodeo circuit for 20-plus years. His shows are lightning fast with his observational humor, analytical down-home approach, and sometimes-outrageous stand-up comedy. JWA shoots one-liners about such real-life topics as married life, sex, NASCAR, fishing, bein’ poor, and school zones.

When JWA picks up the guitar, the crowd is treated to parodies of familiar country songs, and some of his original numbers, like, “One Legged Country Girl,” which has been heard on the syndicated radio programs. JWA has appeared in concert with Aaron Tippin, Rascal Flatts, Radney Foster, Ricky Van Shelton, Tammy Wynette, and The Oak Ridge Boys.

TIPS A-PLENTY

Gordie Brown recently closed his show at the Golden Nugget after 8 ½ years and “Million Dollar Quartet” at Harrah’s closed this weekend.

On Thursday, Dec. 8, Double Barrel Roadhouse at Monte Carlo will hold a meet-and-greet and autograph signing with 16 WNFR superstars from noon–2 p.m.

Nevada’s first and only bean-to-bar chocolate maker, Las Vegas-based artisan chocolate maker HEXX Chocolate + Confexxions, is now Kosher certified with dark and milk chocolates made from cacao beans grown in six different countries.

In addition to HEXX’s current happy hour from 2-6 p.m., the Strip-side eatery is offering its late-night happy hour from 11 p.m. to closing nightly throughout the winter season.

The Ugly Sweater Wine Walk - “I’m Dreaming of a Wine Christmas” - with a sweater contest will be held at Downtown Container Park on Dec. 10 from 3 to 6 p.m. with live entertainment by Zowie Bowie. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

The Lon Bronson Band won’t be playing at Club Madrid inside Sunset Station since the resort is suspending Thursday night entertainment. However, the band’s next performance at The Smith Center will be Friday, Jan. 13 at 7 p.m.

Jeanne Brei writes to say The Speakeasy Swingers next Swanky Supper Club Soiree at the Italian American Club will pick up after the holidays on Thursday, Jan. 5.

Life Time Athletic Green Valley in Henderson is holding the club’s annual kids celebration, “Reindeer Games,” from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 10. Cost is $20 per child, with a $15 multi-child discount. Adults may purchase a food wristband for $5 or a food and drink wristband for $10. For information, call 702-802-7300.

Emeril's New Orleans Fish House in the MGM Grand has launched a new four-course winter tasting menu for $55 showcasing signature and new dishes from Chef de Cuisine Jean Paul Labadie and with wine pairings starting at $35.

The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum is recognizing Downtown’s Vegas Vic. The hall recently rolled out a limited-edition of bobbleheads including the likeness of the 40-foot-tall, cigarette-smoking cowboy Las Vegas neon sign that has greeted visitors for more than 60 years. There are 1,000 available at $25 each.

Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has live music and drink specials through Monday, Dec. 12 and during WNFR.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria’s holiday offer for pizza lovers is with gift cards purchased through Monday, Dec. 26. Guests purchasing $50 worth of gift cards will receive a $10 bonus card and for $100 worth of gift cards the bonus card is $20. Promotion is valid with both standard and e-gift cards. Seasonal cheesecake flavors for December are Peppermint and Toffee.

From Dec. 11–17, guests who dine at either BRIO in Tivoli Village or Town Square will receive 20 percent off their purchase at Apricot Lane Boutique in Town Square when they present their same-day meal receipt.

DLVEC WILL HOST NEW DANCE MUSIC EVENT SERIES ‘ZOOLOGY’

In January, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC) will host a new dance music series, “Zoology” by Collective Zoo. The event will kick off Jan. 6 with performances by Billy Kenny, Bixel Boys and Justin Jay, and continue Jan. 20 with Shiba San and Will Clarke. Tickets are $20 general admission and a drink-and-dance package deal is $50.

Billy Kenny, creator of Record Label, This Ain’t Bristol, is known for his aggressive combination of all things UK garage, house and techno. Joining Kenny are Los Angeles dance music duo Bixel Boys, and Justin Jay, one of his San Francisco label’s rising stars.

Bristol-born Will Clarke hails from England. After gaining popularity in 2014 when his “Big Booty” EP was released on Worthy’s Anabatic label, Clarke joined the Dirtybird label. Paris native Shiba San is 2015 International Dance Music Award-winner for “Best Underground Dance Track.”

OSCAR’S LAUNCHES SOME NEW DEALS

Every day from 4 to 7 p.m., Happy Hour in Oscar’s lounge at the Plaza downtown offers guests half off all beers, glasses of house wine, and well drinks as well as half off a selection of appetizers. Now, every Wednesday, Happy Hour pricing is available in the lounge all night long and customers can also enjoy half off all bottles of wine and champagne on the steakhouse’s extensive wine list. Wednesdays will also offer live entertainment with a DJ beginning at 7 p.m. in the lounge.

Thursday is Ladies Night in Oscar’s lounge. Ladies can enjoy an additional half off happy hour priced drinks, equating to $3 glasses of house wine and beer and $2 well drinks all night long.

In addition, Oscar’s lounge will debut its new seasonal cocktail and beer menus.

CALL FOR ARTISTS SUBMISSIONS TO PAINT FOUR UTILITY BOXES

The city of Las Vegas is asking artists interested in painting utility boxes to beautify the urban environment along Maryland Parkway between E. Charleston Blvd. and Stewart Ave. for submissions. To promote community participation and support local art, the city is offering a $2,500 honorarium to paint up to four boxes. The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 6, 2017.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH PAT BENATAR AND NEIL GIRALDO AT THE PALMS

Rock legends Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will return to Las Vegas for “A Very Intimate Acoustic Evening” at the Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms on Friday, March 24 at 8 p.m. Tickets for the all-acoustic show start at $29.

Benatar has always been a rule-breaker and a trail-blazer. The four-time Grammy winner is a classically trained mezzo-soprano. After more than three decades in rock ‘n’ roll, she’s a bonafide living legend. Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo: The 35th Anniversary Tour kicks off with “Shadows Of The Night,” which was a top ten hit for the couple in 1982.

Neil “Spyder” James Giraldo has been a professional musician, producer, arranger and songwriter for more than four decades, changing the face of the pop charts throughout the 1980s with his collaborator, muse and wife, Pat Benatar. More than just an explosive steel bending guitar player, Giraldo’s innovative vision helped him create the signature Benatar sound, from its inception. His impressive back catalog includes more than 100 songs written, produced, arranged and recorded for Benatar, as well as many hits for countless other artists.

COMEDIAN RALPHIE MAY WILL BRING ‘NO APOLOGIES’ SHOW TO HARRAH’S

Comedian Ralphie May is bringing “Ralphie May: No Apologies” to the Harrah’s Showroom beginning at the end of January with dates most every month next year. May says the 10 p.m. show will be a crazy mix of stories and current events with no subject off limits. Ticket prices begin at $35.

No subject is off limits for May but he’s lovable enough to get away with anything. He continues to capture the hearts of thousands and promises to make his audiences gleefully uncomfortable.

BRING ME THE HORIZON WILL PERFORM AT THE HARD ROCK

British rock band Bring Me The Horizon has announced their massive “The American Nightmare Tour” will stop at The Joint at Hard Rock on Saturday, April 8 with special guests Underoath and Beartooth. Tickets start at $39.95.

Recently the Sheffield, England-based band released the music video for “Oh No,” the newest single taken from their fifth studio album “That’s The Spirit.” This month, Bring Me The Horizon is releasing “Live at the Royal Albert Hall,” a special DVD/CD package from the band’s sold-out concert last April in London.

KEHLANI BRINGS SWEET SEXY SAVAGE WORLD TOUR TO BROOKLYN BOWL

Kehlani is embarking on her Sweet Sexy Savage World Tour next year and will visit Brooklyn Bowl at The LINQ Promenade for a performance of her debut album of the same name on Thursday, Apr. 20 at 8 p.m. Opening for the R&B darling will be “The New Queen of the Breakup Anthem,” British R&B singer Ella Mai. In addition, Canadian R&B singer and rapper JAHKOY will perform as well as Noodles. Tickets start at $25.

The 21-year-old Kehlani from Oakland, Calif., enjoyed ballet until a knee injury forced her to focus on singing. In eighth grade she joined a group PopLyfe as the lead vocalist. The ensemble finished in sixth place on the sixth season of “America’s Got Talent,” where she met the show’s host Nick Cannon.

Years later, Cannon assisted the struggling artist by providing keys to her success, which included studio time and an apartment in Los Angeles. The result, her 2014 mixtape “Cloud 19” introduced her to the music world. Her second mixtape “You Should Be Here” debuted at No. 5 on Billboard’s US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. In 2015, she signed with Atlantic Records and began her You Should Be Here tour, which sold out of every North American and select European dates.

CALIFORNIA HAS UNVEILED ALL-NEW REDWOOD STEAKHOUSE

Some folks are dreaming of a White Christmas, this reporter would be happy with another plate of the creamed corn at the all-new Redwood Steakhouse making its debut in the California Hotel as part of the casino’s sweeping, multi-million-dollar redesign. The reinvented fine dining concept features a wide selection of steaks, fresh seafood and chops, served in a contemporary island-inspired atmosphere.

The Redwood’s new environment features touches of Hawaiian flair like some images on the dining room wall and fan-inspired chandeliers hanging from vaulted ceilings. Swagged drapery panels reinforce casual elegance. The restaurant façade has windows offering glimpses into the bar and main dining room. The new bar features a custom butcher-block countertop, over-scale chandeliers, and a herringbone-patterned wood floor. Visually anchoring the bar, a large vintage burlesque vaudeville print adds an unexpected touch of whimsy.
In the contemporary lounge-style bar there is a social hour daily from 4–6 p.m. with a special menu of island-inspired small bites.

IT’S HOLIDAY TIME AT BELLAGIO’S CONSERVATORY & BOTANICAL GARDENS

Once again the elegant Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is transformed into a winter wonderland through Jan. 2. The free 24/7 exhibit has favorite seasonal images, such as the polar bear family and a 42-foot White Fir tree embellished with twinkling lights and ornaments. The display’s newest addition is a Bellagio-themed train station coated with crushed walnuts, filled with poinsettias and guarded by four animated toy soldiers. There’s a family of penguins, two 10-foot trains adorned with 1,200 red and white roses departing for the North Pole through two 12-foot brick tunnels, and a family of elves playfully decorating a tree.

HOLIDAY MUSIC AND DINING MERRIMENT

“Clint Holmes: Between the Lines” at The Palazzo Theatre will add holiday spirit to the show on Sunday and Monday, Dec. 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26 by adding classic holiday songs to the show’s set list of contemporary hits and pop standards. Among the seasonal musical treats are “We Three Kings,” “William the Angel,” “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” “Little Drummer Boy,” and “Let It Snow,” among others.

At Tivoli Village, fresh52 Farmers’ Markets present an outdoor brunch on Dec. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the theme “Holiday Farmhouse & Cocktails” and a “Giving from the Heart” menu by vegan powerhouse Chef Mayra. Referred to as “Dr. Flavor,” she’s been in the food industry for more than 15 years, was trained in the classic culinary arts, and has certifications in sport nutrition, macrobiotic cooking, as well as, vegan, holistic, and Feng Shui cuisine. The benefitting charity will be Project 150, the nonprofit helping more than 2,500 homeless, displaced and disadvantaged local high school students. Cost range is $50 to $70.

MANSOUR AND ARASH WILL HEADLINE NEW PARK THEATER

Two superstars from the world of Persian music – Mansour and Arash – along with a special performance by internationally renowned comedian Max Amini will perform at the new Park Theater at Monte Carlo on Sunday, Dec. 25. Tickets start at $59.

Contemporary leading Persian musical artist Mansour is one of the world’s most loved Iranian singers and ranked as one of the top male singers of the Persian music scene. Mansour has released more than 10 albums and in January will reveal his new album “Radical.”

Arash is a Platinum-selling Swedish singer and producer whose music is also certified gold in many European countries. Whether singing in his mother tongue (Farsi) or in English with some of the world’s biggest names, including Shaggy, Sean Paul, T-Pain and Snoop Dogg, Arash is the only artist of Persian heritage to release four albums and 30 singles that have sustained a high-level of global success topping the charts.

Comedian Max Amini was born in Tucson, Ariz., and was raised on the East Coast. He graduated from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television in 2004. As an actor, Amini has more than 50 film and television credits including NBC’s “Heroes,” regular appearances on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia” and a leading role in the upcoming feature film “Beyond Paradise.”

DISNEY ON ICE WILL VISIT THOMAS & MACK IN JANUARY

The New Year will start off with happiness when Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Enchantment visits the Thomas & Mack Center Jan. 12-15. This show presents four favorite Disney stories showcasing beloved characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Cars,” “Toy Story 3,” Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” plus the Academy Award®-winning “Frozen.” Tickets start at $18.

HYPNOTIST KEVIN LEPINE’S SHOW CELEBRATED ONE YEAR AT BINION’S

Last week, Kevin Lepine celebrated the one-year anniversary of his show “Hypnosis Unleashed” at Binion’s Gambling Hall downtown. His hypnosis show is infused with stand-up comedy nightly except Monday at 8:30 p.m. His boyish looks put his audience volunteers at ease as they step on stage to have a new hypnotic experience.

Kevin’s show has comedy; however, he is a certified hypnotherapist and says, “My show focuses on the positive reinforcement of personal growth and achievement.”

Along with running his show, the “hypnotic” entertainer is a founder of Hypnosis Helps, a charity that collaborates with local hypnotists. Last year they raised enough money to gift the entire Theriot Elementary school with uniform shirts, winter coats and individual gifts from their Christmas lists.

B&B RISTORANTE AT THE VENETIAN WILL HOST OLIVE OIL DINNER

A first for Las Vegas, B&B Ristorante at The Venetian will host a six-course feast centered around the first pressing of extra virgin olive oil from the Medici-era villa, Tenuta di Capezzana (Italian for “estate of Capezzana”). The dinner on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. will be taken on a tasting journey guided by Beatrice Contini-Bonacossi, whose family owns Capezzana, the 345-acre farm that has produced olive oil and wine since the times of Charlemagne (742 - 814). During the dinner, she will discuss the unique history of the estate, as well as the oil-making process. The dinner and wine pairings experience is $165.

SPEEDVEGAS LAUNCHES HAPPY HOUR OF POWER

            SPEEDVEGAS has unveiled a different kind of “Happy Hour” offering 60 minutes of unlimited adrenaline-laden excitement. SPEEDVEGAS’ Happy Hour of Power enables thrill seekers to have the new speed attraction all to themselves for one hour with unlimited laps around the Formula One-inspired track.
            Priced at $12,000, guests may choose up to eight different cars from SPEEDVEGAS’ world-renowned collection of top muscle cars and exotic supercars, including models by Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche and Shelby. If the guest wants to share, this Happy Hour can accommodate up to 12 guests.
            Only one session can be reserved per day; The Happy Hour of Power is available daily from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

SANTAS ARE EVERYWHERE

At Sam’s Town, The Winter Wonderland at Mystic Falls Park has an all-new, nine-minute, holiday-inspired evening laser light show. There are also holiday decorations and a glimpse inside Santa’s workshop where western-themed Cowboy Santa can be visited in the gazebo through Dec. 23. Visiting hours are Thursdays and Fridays 4-8:30 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays noon to 8:30 p.m.

Scuba Santa is at the Silverton submerged in the 117,000 gallon saltwater aquarium again on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17-18 from noon-1:15 and 2:15-3:30. It’s free to take photos while he even talks to spectators through an underwater microphonesystem.

At The Forum Shops at Caesars from Dec. 13 through Christmas Day, Santa has turned the job of feeding the tropical fish at the Atlantis Aquarium over to the Holiday Elf Aquarists adorned in elf-style wet suits. They do holiday elf dives on Dec 12, 13, and 15; and again Dec 19-24 at approximately 2:30 to 3:00 p.m.

Santa will be at the Shipwreck at Shark Reef Aquarium inside Mandalay Bay Dec. 17-24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. With paid admission, guests 12 and under receive a treat and photo with Santa and his sidekick Santa Jaws. Before heading back to his workshop, Santa will put on scuba gear and plunge into the Shipwreck waters to give a farewell.

The jolly man from the north is also visiting Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor on Dec. 17 from 1-3 p.m. With an admission, visitors will find Santa greeting and posing for photos on the replica of Titanic’s Grand Staircase.

At Tivoli Village families can bring a blanket and Picnic with Saint Nick every Saturday through Dec 24 at 11 a.m. The holiday experience includes live entertainment, kid crafts, sweet treats, balloon artists, face painters and story time with Santa and his helpers. Photo opportunities are afterwards.

Also at Tivoli Village there is Operation North Pole, a 65-minute holiday hands-on workshop and interactive experience alongside Santa and his elves through Dec. 25. The experience includes a candy cottage, baked treats in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, meeting Santa’s reindeers in the stable, visiting Santa in his office space, and the opportunity to take home a teddy bear. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday.

At the Container Park downtown, Santa Claus is visiting again on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17 and 18 from 1-5 p.m.

SPEEDVEGAS BECOMES ‘AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE’ BACKDROP

“Automobile Magazine” selected the new SPEEDVEGAS as the host location for its May 2017 All-Stars issue. SPEEDVEGAS hosted All-Stars testing events Dec. 5–8 where an expert team of automobile editors and contributors evaluate 23 new cars, ultimately selecting the vehicles which will receive the 2017 All-Stars designation. During the four-day testing program, cars will be photographed at various locations around SPEEDVEGAS. The All-Stars issue will hit newsstands in late March.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

JULIANNE AND DEREK HOUGH WILL PERFORM AT THE SMITH CENTER

Next year, powerhouse brother and sister duo Julianne and Derek Hough will bring their all-new production “Move- Beyond – Live On Tour” to more than 40 locations in the United States and stop in Las Vegas at The Smith Center on Friday, June 16. This experience follows the success of their inaugural 2014 run and fan-demanded sophomore run in 2015 with “Move Live on Tour.” Tickets are on sale now.

The brand new stage production is being inspired by the elements – earth, wind, fire and water with fresh, high-impact choreography. The pair will be joined by the Move Company Dancers for group performances in styles ranging from ballroom and tap to salsa and hip-hop and everything in between. Julianne and Derek Hough will once again co-create, choreograph and produce, and be joined by their all-star creative team.

The brother and sister team are longtime “Dancing With the Stars” fan favorites with multiple Emmy Awards and mirror ball trophies between them. Separately, they starred in two of this year’s most talk-about live musical events, “Grease: Live” and “Hairspray Live.” On Christmas morning, they will host ABC’s “The Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration,” which Julianne also executive produced.

JEFF DUNHAM FEATURES ‘PERFECTLY UNBALANCED’ AT CAESARS PALACE

International comedy ventriloquist Jeff Dunham, along with his entertaining sidekicks, will return to Las Vegas for 15 nights with his hugely successful “Perfectly Unbalanced” show beginning Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Following the March date, Dunham will return for 14 consecutive weeks, with one show a week from June 16-Sept. 13. Shows are at 7:30 p.m.

Dunham’s dedication to his craft and relentless innovation will be recognized as his one of a kind comedy empire has been nominated to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Over the past 46 years, Dunham and his world famous characters Walter, Achmed, Bubba J, Peanut and José Jalapeno have garnered numerous accolades including being named Forbes’ Celebrity 100 list of Most Powerful Entertainers, setting the Guinness World Records for the “Most Tickets Sold for a Stand-Up Comedy Tour,” and making the record for viewership on Comedy Central. He has sold more than 7 million DVDs worldwide and has nearly a billion views on YouTube.

JIM GAFFIGAN WILL BRING HIS COMEDY TOUR TO CAESARS PALACE

Multi-talented Jim Gaffigan has packed up the tour bus and hit the road with his family for his live “Fully Dressed” arena and theatre tour. His tour will make a two-night stop at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Saturday and Sunday, May 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $49.95 to $89.95.

Gaffigan is a Grammy-nominated comedian, actor, New York Times best-selling author, top touring performer, and multi-platinum-selling father of five. He is famous around the world for his brand of humor revolving largely around fatherhood and his observations on life and food. In 2013, his first book, “Dad Is Fat,” debuted at No. 5 on The New York Times Bestsellers List. His second book, “Food: A Love Story,” was released in the fall of 2014 and debuted at No. 3.

MGM GRAND COURTS MILLENNIALS

The MGM Grand will open a new 12,000-square-foot area Level Up, formerly occupied by the Rainforest Café, on Dec. 29. The space is designed by and for the millennial generation. Level Up will have interactive skill-based games including Sigma Derby, Giant Pac-Man, QuadAir Hockey, Bubble Hockey, Connect Four and Golfstream Suite indoor laser golf. It will also have traditional games like pool, foosball and ping pong along with music, decor, sports and food.

VIRGIL’S REAL BBQ OPENED AT THE LINQ PROMENADE

Virgil’s Real Barbecue from Alicart Restaurant Group opened last week at The LINQ Promenade with a ceremonial cutting of a rack of ribs by the company’s CEO Jeffrey Bank. Las Vegas is Virgil’s third location in the country and the second Las Vegas footprint for Alicart Restaurant Group, joining Carmine’s in The Forum Shops at Caesars which opened in 2013. Virgil’s has locations in New York City and at Atlantis in the Bahamas.

Virgil’s spans 14,000 square feet, seats 300 and features three outdoor spaces along with three private dining rooms. The restaurant has reclaimed wood sourced from vintage barns across the Southern states and décor from barbecue places around the country embellishes the walls.

The menu highlights the BBQ tastes of Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas, the Carolinas and Missouri and was developed after extensive research in the back roads of the south, as featured in the “Virgil’s Barbecue Road Trip Cookbook.” Virgil’s meats are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to 10 hours with a custom mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods to impart the most flavors and to keep the meat from drying out.

Virgil’s is open daily at 11 a.m. for lunch and dinner and offers take out and off-site catering. Live entertainment in the main room and patio add a festive vibe with local talent performing country, bluegrass and classic rock genres nightly from 9 p.m. to midnight and special guest appearances from noted names.

MARVEL RETAIL STORE OPENED AT TREASURE ISLAND

Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. at Treasure Island just opened a 7,500-square-foot retail experience this Saturday with a full range of apparel, toys, collectibles, housewares, and more in what is Marvel’s largest retail outlet in the world.

Continuing the Marvel experience, the retail store offers a Hulk-errific “green screen” photo experience where fans can have their photo taken in several different Avengers-themed photo settings and have the image put on a custom mug, t-shirt or other customizable item. The vast shopping hub is also home to Become Iron Man – an interactive experience that allows guests to channel their inner Tony Stark and try on Iron Man’s suit and take it for a spin via virtual reality.

BORDELLO OPENS AT RÍ RÁ INSIDE SHOPPES AT MANDALAY PLACE

On the heels of its five-year anniversary, Rí Rá inside The Shoppes at Mandalay Place has unveiled a new event and dining space located at the back of the pub behind a secluded hallway called The Bordello. This expansion brings Rí Rá’s total size to 11,000 square feet.

Inspired by high-end bordellos, the new space transports guests to a bygone era with high black ceilings, plush velvet curtains, Victorian red and gold interiors, lounge-style furniture and dim lighting. The space also boasts an assortment of eccentric furnishings such as hand-crafted chandeliers, a glistening disco ball and various black and white movie stills inside antique gold frames, adding to the historic atmosphere.

The Bordello seats up to 64 dining guests and can accommodate up to 100 people at a reception-style event. The new themed area joins the pub’s five existing rooms including The Shop Bar, Victorian Bar, The Whiskey Bar, The Parlour Room and The Theatre Room.

GRAND BAZAAR SHOPS ADD FOOD AND PARTY OUTLETS

Country music singer John Rich of the duo Big & Rich will expand his Redneck Riviera brand into the bar industry and open Redneck Riviera, an all-new country music bar at the Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s on the second floor directly above Wahlburgers in early 2017. The new party outlet will offer live music and food and will be operated by Charlotte, N.C.’s Bar Management Group. The venue will offer a special Heroes Bar dedicated to the military and will offer the first drink on the house to active military and veterans. There will also be a retail area selling the brand’s footwear and apparel.

The Strip-situated mall will also be providing a touch of the Windy City when it opens Chicago pizzeria Giordano’s, which will be its first location in Southern Nevada. The 4,000-square-foot restaurant will be located directly above Starbucks, with views of the Bellagio’s fountains. The pizzeria will also have a separate 1,700-square-foot patio and bar located in the Grand Allée’s main walkway.

MONORAIL PARTY IS NEW YEAR’S EVE FIRST FOR LAS VEGAS

It’s time to start making plans for New Year’s Eve and this year there is a new party to consider for viewing the Strip’s famous celebratory midnight fireworks show. For the first time, the Las Vegas Monorail on Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. will open the Third Rail Lounge, an exclusive elevated event venue at the Las Vegas Convention Center station, for a party. Guests will have a panoramic view of the fireworks from the Third Rail Lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

The party will include unlimited beer and wine, hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment by dynamic musical act Taj, accompanied by DJ Livinh leading the countdown, a champagne toast at midnight, party favors and access to a themed party photo booth and souvenir image. A cash bar will also be available for cocktails.

In addition, the Third Rail Lounge New Year’s Eve Party includes unlimited Monorail rides for 24 hours. The Las Vegas Monorail is the only transportation available on the Strip during New Year’s Eve road closures. Finally, every guest will receive a reusable travel cup and enjoy a specialty cocktail at each of the Monorail’s “refill stations” located at select stops along its four-mile route. Tickets are $175 or $300 per couple.

DINING ESTABLISHMENT UPDATES

Las Vegas celebrity chef Vic Vegas just opened his new innovative sub shop concept, 7 Sinful Subs at 4632 Maryland Parkway #12 across the street from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and offers dine-in and take-out options. The menu will include oddball sandwiches with interesting names: Knuckle Sandwich; Skinny Dip; the Baller; and Walk “O” Shame.

Plantone’s Italian Market opened in the Southwest last week at 8680 West Warm Springs Road offering pizza, pasta, subs, and salads in a family-friendly setting for lunch and dinner daily. Plantone’s has an oversized outdoor patio, warm colors, a vintage mural with Italian scenes and industrial touches. Wooden beams cross the ceiling above red metal lighting and classic subway tiles. This new concept is the dream of local real estate broker and UNLV School of Hospitality alumni Glenn Plantone. Chef Francesco Savinetti is a native of Italy with decades of pizza experience both abroad and the United States. In Las Vegas, he has worked Sirio at Aria and DOCG at Cosmopolitan.

A former Beano’s location at 7200 West Lake Mead Blvd. has been transformed into PT’s Gold and can operate up to 35 video gaming devices. It is the company’s 53rd tavern in Nevada and the company’s fifth new tavern of 2016. The exterior was reconfigured to create an outdoor year-round covered patio area.

KRIS KRINGLE IS FLYING AT VEGAS INDOOR SKYDIVING

Kris Kringle is flying this year at Vegas Indoor Skydiving and available for photos this through Dec. 24. He is decked out in his custom-made, one-of-a-kind flight suit, complete with Santa hat, belt, boots and his classic white beard. Guests who purchase a single flight at retail price $75 will have the opportunity to fly with and take a photo alongside Santa Claus inside the 22-foot-tall wind tunnel. The Vegas Indoor Skydiving Santa package is available for only $25 and includes a 6 x 8 flight photo.

Built in 1981, Vegas Indoor Skydiving operates the first indoor skydiving facility to open in the United States. The experience is similar to the free-fall aspect of skydiving, with the addition of a mesh trampoline floor and foam-padded walls.

COMEDIAN SINBAD WILL RETURN TO THE ORLEANS SHOWROOM

Actor and comedian Sinbad will headline The Orleans Showroom Feb. 3-4 at 8 p.m. The Michigan-native Sinbad has been on the comedy circuit for more than three decades. He launched his career in the 1980s after making several appearances on the former variety show “Star Search.” By 1993, his popularity led him to star in his own series, “The Sinbad Show.”

Sinbad’s quintessential comedy style is built on stories that include exchanges with family, friends and strangers, as well as the time he spent in the United States Air Force. He also creates an interactive comedy experience with the audience and their trials and tribulations.

SOME NEWS TIPS

Mariah Carey’s final run of her hit residency “MARIAH #1 TO INFINITY” scheduled April 26–May 13 at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace has been rescheduled for July 8–18, 2017. The global superstar plans to return to the Colosseum in December 2017 with six holiday shows featuring her personal Christmas catalog.

In town for NFR, country music stars and Caesars Palace headliners, Reba McEntire along with Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn were spotted attending the outlandish hit show “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace.

Wynn Resorts will be adding Amazon’s Echo device to all its hotel rooms at the Wynn and Encore, which will allow guests to control the lighting, temperature, drapes and televisions by simply speaking commands. The company expects it to be available in all rooms by next summer.

The Cosmopolitan has been the next property to announce plans to start charging for parking in early 2017. The valet fees will be similar to those at MGM and Wynn properties and some Caesars’ resorts.

Last week world-famous supermodel and TV host Heidi Klum visited Cirque du Soleil’s “Mystère” by at Treasure Island.

Neil Moffitt, CEO of the Hakkasan Group will be the keynote speaker at the Nightclub & Bar Show in Las Vegas March 27-29 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Nightlife mogul Moffit will share his secrets of success “Building an International Hospitality Empire.”

The Golden Tiki in Chinatown added to its Cabinet of Curiosities recently by unveiling former Review Journal gossip columnist Norm Clarke’s shrunken head. Clarke’s head was crafted over a four-week process by Smithsonian artist Terry Barr, and is the fifth in a series of celebrity shrunken heads on display at Vegas’ iconic Tiki revival bar. Previous shrunken heads include Marky Ramone of The Ramones, Carrot Top, Frank Marino and Robin Leach.

WEEN AND STS9 WILL VISIT BROOKLYN BOWL NEXT YEAR

Brooklyn Bowl will host Ween and STS9 for multi-night engagements in early 2017. Ween will have an extended Presidents’ Day weekend run from Friday, Feb. 17 through Sunday, Feb. 19. STS9 will bridge April Fools’ Day, playing the nights of March 31 and April 1.

Ween is named for Gene and Dean Ween, the Ramones-esque pseudonyms for longtime friends and bandmates Aaron Freeman (Gene) and Mickey Melchiondo (Dean). The band formed in New Hope, Penn., when the two, then in middle school, met in a typing class. They began making music, performing live as a cassette tape-backed duo for nearly a decade before expanding into the five-piece makeup of today’s Ween. Last month, the band released their first album since 2008, “GODWEENSATAN: LIVE.” Tickets for Ween are $54.50 in advance and $60 day-of-show.

The electronic rock outfit Sound Tribe Sector 9 (STS9) released their new album “The Universe Inside,” which is the band’s first new full-length album in nearly seven years, this past September. The Atlanta-born “post-rock dance music” group has 11 full-length albums to their credit and has been active in the exploratory electronic music scene since 1998. Tickets are $37.50 and $40 day-of-show.

IRATION WILL BRING LOST & FOUND WINTER TOUR TO THE JOINT

Hawaiian reggae stars Iration bring their “Lost & Found Winter Tour” to The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel on Friday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m. They will be joined by special guests The Green and Protoje. Tickets start at $39.50.

Iration is an alternative/reggae group of musicians formed in Isla Vista, Calif. A deep-rooted reggae influence is fused with elements of rock and pop to create smooth original sounds. All of the members met while growing up in Hawaii but formed the band after reconnecting in California with the exception of Micah Brown who joined 2014. The group released their “Hotting Up” album in summer of 2015.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

‘RAIDING THE ROCK VAULT’ WILL OPEN AT HARD ROCK HOTEL IN MARCH

The Hard Rock Hotel specifically the 650-seat Vinyl venue may be a really good match this time for “Raiding The Rock Vault,” which opened first at the former Las Vegas Hilton and then spent time at the Tropicana where it closed this year on Aug. 1. The show is really the ultimate rock concert experience and deserves to remain a headlining act in Las Vegas. It will open March 11 and will be performed Saturday to Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $69.

The show tells the story of classic rock from the 1960s to the 1980s and is performed by members of some of the greatest rock bands in history.

‘SPY ESCAPE & EVASION’ SHOW RETURNS TO STRATOSPHERE

Jason Hanson, a former CIA officer, performed his life-saving skills show “Spy Escape & Evasion” at the Stratosphere this year with much success. He is coming back in 2017 beginning Feb. 16 with 75-minute shows weekly Thursday through Saturday at 5 p.m. inside the Stratosphere Theater. Ticket prices start at $25 for general admission and $49 for special VIP seating.

Hanson teaches fascinating life-saving skills to protect yourself and your family from danger. After almost a decade in the CIA, Hanson incorporates his real-world spy safety experience and techniques directly into an entertaining stage show with valuable information. Hanson has been featured on dozens of national and international news outlets and ABC’s reality business show “The Shark Tank.”

Some of the things you can learn include: how to escape duct tape, rope, and zip ties, in five seconds or less; tactical pen self-defense techniques; how to become a human lie detector; and how to protect your identity.

ENGLISH TALENT ILONA HAS FOUR-DAY RESIDENCY AT FREEDOM BEAT

London-based talent ILONA will make it a mini-British invasion when she visits Freedom Beat at the Downtown Grand for four nights, Jan. 5-8. Her visit will set an emphatic tone for 2017 as she prepares to embark on a worldwide tour.

Since beginning her musical career only a few years ago, ILONA has already achieved an amount of success winning awards, jamming with Ed Sheeran, and owning airwaves of radio stations in Great Britain and abroad. Along with her own headlining, ILONA has supported artists as diverse as Passenger, Adam Ant, Paul Rodgers, Willy Mason and Daniel Bedingfield.

FIRST FRIDAY HELPS START THE NEW YEAR

First Friday will “Step into the Future” on Jan. 6 from 5-11 p.m. Some key elements for January’s event will include featured artist Lake Paints creating a live spray paint piece on the Mission Linen Building on the Coolidge Street side. With the future theme, an interactive art project will allow guests to stamp footprints onto a canvas using provided shoes and write their wishes for 2017. ArtWalk will showcase work by emerging Las Vegas artists at booths in the festival area and at the Arts Factory and Art Square, where there are art galleries and studios to visit.

‘LOVE AFFAIR’ CONCERT SET AT ORLEANS ARENA

The Manhattans, Rose Royce, Freddie Jackson and more acts will perform at the Orleans Arena for 105.7 Old School’s “Love Affair” concert on Saturday, Feb. 11. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $30.

Other acts will include: Surface featuring Bernard Jackson; four-time Grammy Award-winning artist Deniece Williams; Bloodstone; Peaches & Herb; Latino band Tierra; and all-female group The Three Degrees.

BOULDER CITY FAMILY WINS ABC’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT COMPETITION

ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” television show national competition in its fourth season was won this month by a local family in Boulder City. Husband and wife Dale Ryan and Dyanah Musgrave have been going all out decorating their house for 13 years and this year’s display took two months to create. The couple won a trophy and $50,000. You can see the house at 1525 5th Street lit up until 9 p.m. nightly.

FAST LANE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

As a reminder, “Steve Wynn’s ShowStoppers” will close on New Year’s Eve and the 80s rock musical “Rock of Ages” will end its run at the RIO on Jan. 1.

Performer Zowie Bowie aka Chris Phillips will rock the VIP party at Caesars Ballroom from 8-10 p.m. and then hurry over to the 3rd Street Stage for the party at the Fremont Street Experience at 11 p.m. on Dec. 31.

The Lon Bronson All-Star Band will start a monthly residence at Cabaret Jazz at The Smith Center starting March 17 and will appear there on Friday, Jan. 13.

Guitar legend Santana will headline House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, where he has played since 2012, from Jan. 25, 27-29 and Feb. 1-4. Tickets start at $99.50.

Micky Dolenz, who was the drummer for the Monkees, will perform at the Golden Nugget on Friday, Jan. 20.

Actor Louie Anderson, who recently finished filming Season 2 of “Baskets” playing Christine Baskets opposite Zach Galifianakis, is still a rock solid stand-up comedian. He’s appearing for the first time at the Rocks Lounge at the Red Rock Resort on Feb. 17 and 18.

Wow, it’s a blast from the past with The 5th Dimension featuring original member Florence LaRue in concert at The Club inside the Cannery on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. If you don’t remember the five-member group, you can still hear their mega-hit classics on the radio: “Up, Up and Away,” One Less Bell To Answer,” “Stone Soul Picnic,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” “Last Night I Didn’t Get To Sleep,” and “Aquarius/Let The Sun Shine In.” Tickets start at $28.95.

The thoroughly entertaining all-male comic dance troupe, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, will perform at Artemus W. Ham Hall at the UNLV campus on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $75.

Soulful singer, songwriter and producer Clarence Greenwood, also known as Citizen Cope, and his band will perform at Brooklyn Bowl at The Linq Promenade on Thursday, Dec. 29 at 9:30 p.m. Greenwood has toured arenas, clubs and major festivals, opened for Carlos Santana on a 2002 European tour, and was handpicked by Eric Clapton to be a part of Clapton’s “Crossroads Guitar Festival: benefit concert series in 2010. Tickets start at $35.

Multi-talented entertainer Wes Winters will ring in the New Year with his “one-man lounge show,” a variety act built around his acclaimed vocals and piano skills, at Sam’s Town Live! on Saturday, Dec. 31. Guests can enjoy a cocktail, party favors and a midnight toast. Doors open at 10 p.m. and tickets start at 25.

Marriage Can Be Murder at the D downtown is bringing a killer twist to the holiday party season, with the opportunity to dine, socialize and play detective in a jolly game of whodunit where even Santa is suspect. Holiday themed shows are running through Jan. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the festive holiday decorated showroom. Prices ranging from $85.88 to $119.58 are inclusive with a three-course meal.

THIS AND THAT NEWS

At the Venetian, Chef Daniel Boulud’s contemporary French restaurant db Brasserie will be closing Jan. 8. In its space will go a Latin-influenced restaurant called Chica, which will be open for lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. Miami-based 50 Eggs founder John Kunkel already has his Yardbird Southern Table & Bar restaurant just down the walkway at the resort.

Beginning Jan. 8, Standard & Pour in Henderson will start an all-new Sunday brunch including mimosas, muffins and Bloody Marys from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday. Also, new hours will be Monday through Saturday for dinner from 4 to 10 p.m. and Monday through Saturday for happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m.

At the Lake Las Vegas Art Galleries – North Gallery in MonteLago Village, the Winter Holiday Juried Art Show featuring pieces from Southern Nevada artists is running through Thursday, Jan. 12 daily from 1–8 p.m. There is no charge to attend, and artwork is available to purchase.

SPRINGS PRESERVE HOSTS 16TH ‘RUN AWAY WITH CIRQUE DU SOLEIL®’

The novel community event, “Run Away with Cirque du Soleil” will return to the Springs Preserve on March 11 for its 16th annual 5K run and 1-mile fun walk. Pre-registration is now open.

The event wrapped in the magic of Cirque du Soleil, will be interactive and immersive with performers in costume taking over the venue. Participants will be able to take photos with their favorite artists while also enjoying live music, complimentary refreshments from Starbucks and Whole Foods, a circus play area and more. This year, guests are being encouraged to “show off their Cirque spirit,” with a special prize rewarded to those who wear the best Cirque du Soleil-inspired costumes.

In honor of the Springs Preserve’s 10th birthday, there will also be a special performance by students from the Arts Nomades program, a unique learning arts initiative created by Cirque du Soleil to enhance students’ creative capabilities.

On-site registration will open at 7 a.m. and the race will start at 8:30 a.m. followed by live music and a special awards ceremony at 10:30 a.m. For the 5K run, early bird fees are $27 for children ages 3–12 and $37 for adults. Early bird fees for the 1-mile fun walk at $17 for children and $27 for adults. After March 1, the prices will all increase by three dollars.

NEW YEAR’S OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS

The biggest crowd will be on the Las Vegas Strip staring up to watch the half million dollar fireworks show beginning at midnight and lasting eight minutes and one second. The 80,000 fireworks will be launched from the rooftops of seven Strip resorts going from the MGM Grand to the Stratosphere. The theme this year is Vegas Rocks with music tributes to David Bowie, Prince and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The Strip will be closed off to traffic beginning at 5 p.m. Good news the weather forecast is looking good.

The other large outdoor party will be America’s Party – Downtown at the Fremont Street Experience with fireworks, entertainment and a year-in-review retrospective on the Viva Vision screen and a midnight countdown led by Mayor Carolyn Goodman. The always happening five-block entertainment district features continuous entertainment on three stages and a countdown to midnight. The area is roped off for the party from 6 p.m. to 3:30 a.m., which costs $35-$40 online for entry.

HIGH UP NYE PARTY OPS

If you want to get up high to see the fireworks, there are a few options. Sundance Helicopters is offering a birds-eye view Fireworks Spectacular Tour departing at 11:50 p.m. with champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and limousine service for $399 per person and a total of 72 seats available.

Another up in the air experience is on The High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ Promenade offering a 360-degree view. Visitors can purchase VIP cabins and other packages for that night.

The Las Vegas Monorail is offering a first time party this year from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Third Rail Lounge event venue with an elevated view at the Las Vegas Convention Center. A plus is this party includes unlimited Monorail rides for 24 hours.

The Las Vegas Monorail will remain open around the clock from 7 a.m. New Year’s Eve continuously through New Year’s Day and until 2 a.m. on Jan. 2 for a total of 43 straight hours. The Monorail has seven stations: MGM Grand; Bally’s/Paris Las Vegas; Flamingo/Caesars Palace; Harrah’s/The LINQ; SLS Las Vegas; the Las Vegas Convention Center; and Westgate.

Topgolf behind the MGM Grand opened last spring and it will celebrate with an outdoor Rooftop Party for $75.

STAR STUDDED NEW YEAR’S EVE WEEK LINEUP

Six-time Grammy winner Lady Gaga will appear at the Encore Theater at Wynn for an intimate one-night-only 10 p.m. performance backed by New York City jazzman Brian Newman and his quintet on Dec. 30. She will be showcasing jazz standards. Tickets are $1,000 and $1,500 and the dress code is black-tie.

Bruno Mars will begin his residency on Dec. 30 and 31 at the new Park Theater at Monte Carlo. He’ll also be hosting at the Bank Nightclub at Bellagio after the NYE show.

Elton John will perform his “Million Dollar Piano” show at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Dec. 28-Jan. 1.

Returning for a fifth consecutive New Year’s Eve performance, pop-group Maroon 5 will be at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Dec. 30 and 31.

The Cosmopolitan will have two Grammy award winning performers at The Chelsea with The Weeknd on Dec. 30 and Sting on Dec. 31.

Country superstar Luke Bryan will perform his many hits at the MGM Grand on Dec. 30.

Comedian Ron “Tater Salad” White will bring laughter to The Mirage on Dec. 29 and 30. He is best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the “Blue Collar Comedy” phenomenon.

Four-time Grammy Award winner Lionel Richie will take the stage for his exclusive headlining residency at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood on Dec. 27, 29 and 30.

On Dec. 31 at The Axis, rap group Wu-Tang Clan will ring in 2017 with hip-hop legends RZA, GZA, Method Man, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, U-God, Masta Killa, Ghostface Killah and Cappadonna.

Morris Day & The Time will visit the Golden Nugget on Friday, Dec. 30. Day played an essential role in the development of the Twin City dance/club sound of the 1980s. He was a founding member of Prince’s band, the Time in 1981, and remained with the group until 1984 when he launched his solo career.

Power-pop stalwarts Cheap Trick will celebrate at The Foundry closing out the intimate concert hall’s first year at SLS.

Something different will be George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic at Brooklyn Bowl on New Year’s Eve.

Major league DJs and music makers will be overseeing celebrations at clubs all around town on Dec. 31. Naming only a few, it’s a real potpourri: Calvin Harris at Omnia; DJ Pauly D at DLVEC (also Dec. 30); DJ Snake at Surrender; Drake at Hakkasan; rapper French Montana and DJ Khaled at TAO; Kendrick Lamar at Drai’s, which has an outdoor rooftop view; Lil Jon at 1 OAK; Ludacris at Light; Steve Aoki at Jewel; and The Weeknd at Marquee.

NEW YEAR’S FESTIVITIES AT LAKE LAS VEGAS

At nearby Lake Las Vegas, a community encompassing a 320-acre private lake, New Year’s Eve will feature two simultaneous 10-minute fireworks shows and a cocktail party cruise on the La Contessa Yacht from 11 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Tickets are $30 with a complimentary glass of champagne, hors d’oeuvres, music, party favors and fireworks at midnight.

On New Year’s Day, there will be a fitness challenge lake dip at MonteLago Village. XCELL, a fitness and multi-sport training team, will start the New Year off at noon with a fun fitness challenge. Participants are invited to jump in and out of the private lake and/or swim 100 yards to a buoy and back. Costumes are encouraged and lifeguards along with volunteers will be available for assistance. Bring dry clothes and towels for changing after the dip and enjoy free hot chocolate. Tickets are $10 for XCELL team members and $12 for guests.

DINING OFFERS FOR CES ATTENDEES

La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn is inviting attendees of the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) with a convention badge to enjoy a four-course prix fixe menu available from Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 5-8. Cost is $59. Call 702-770-7375 for a reservation or go online.

CRUSH at MGM Grand is offering CES attendees a decadent three-course menu, Jan. 5-8. Cost is $75, call 702-891-3222.

HEXX Kitchen + Bar at Paris has an exclusive prix fixe menu Jan. 5-8 starting at $34.95.

Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops will offer breakfast to CES attendees prior to the conference from 8 to 11 a.m.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

THE DORSEY OPENS AT THE VENETIAN

The Dorsey, which replaced The Bourbon Room, is a new visually stunning cocktail bar at The Venetian® offering a subtly sophisticated atmosphere. The new lounge is designed to feel like a home away from home. The concept is led by F&B impresario David Rabin and barman Sam Ross of New York speakeasy Attaboy. The Dorsey is open nightly from 2 p.m. until 4 a.m. and is conveniently located on the casino floor adjacent to Restaurant Row.

The 4,500-square-foot space features rich materials throughout, such as French oak, brass, leather and marble, while the millwork exterior incorporates mahogany and brass. Intimate seating options encourage social interactions such as a separate library space with a lustrous modern fireplace as the focal point. The Dorsey also incorporates stunning digital art displayed on eight screens from artists such as Marilyn Minter, Poyen Wang and Jason Salavon.

The full-service bar has an inventive cocktail menu designed by award-winning barman Ross and manned by top drink makers. There are signature cocktails, including shareable punch bowls. Some drink highlights include: the Penicillin, which the “New York Times” named to its list of 11 essential drinks of the “modern cocktail revival;” Let’s Elope; East Side Rickey; A La Louisiane; Coney Island Express; Creole Punch; and much more. The Dorsey also boasts a full-service bar with a collection of spirits, beer and wine.

ALTO BAR INTRODUCES STRIP’S FIRST VIRTUAL REALITY LOUNGE

Alto Bar, the newest destination and largest bar at Caesars Palace located adjacent to Omnia Nightclub, is introducing Las Vegas’ first Virtual Reality Lounge featuring Oculus Rift for a limited time through Feb. 28. Located in the private space at Alto Bar, the Oculus Virtual Reality Lounge is featuring four Oculus Rifts with Touch, taking guests on a fully immersive 360-degree experience with a variety of the most popular VR games available. From 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Oculus Rift and Touch provides guests the ability to manipulate objects and gameplay elements in VR with extraordinary precision.

STYX AND DON FELDER PLAY FIVE NIGHTS AT THE VENETIAN

Rock legends Styx with special guest star Don Felder-formerly of the Eagles-will appear for an unforgettable five-night limited engagement at The Venetian Theatre. The show, “Styx & Don Felder: Renegades In The Fast Lane,” will be held on Jan. 6, 7, 11, 13 and 14.

For these special performances, Styx--Tommy Shaw (vocals, guitars), James “JY” Young (vocals, guitars), Lawrence Gowan (vocals, keyboards), Todd Sucherman (drums) and Ricky Phillips (bass), along with the occasional surprise appearance by original bassist Chuck Panozzo-has created an exclusive set list and brand new stage production. Felder is also working on some plans of his own for the residency. The multi-show run will pay tribute to both Styx and Don Felder’s combined 45-plus years as one of the most successful rock and roll bands in history and one of rock’s most illustrious guitar legends.

GAMEWORKS DEBUTS XD DARK RIDE EXPERIENCE

GameWorks located next to the movie theater AMC 18 at Town Square has debuted a multi-sensory adventure ride. The XD Dark Ride takes participants on an adrenaline-charged interactive journey complete with real-time 3D graphics, motion, lights and sound. Each player uses a “light gun” attached to each seat to obtain high scores in various adventures including Alien Asteroid, Forbidden Mine, Zombies, Gigamon and Pirates. This is TRIOTECH’s first XD Dark Ride interactive theater in Las Vegas. The ride accommodates up to eight riders at a time and costs $7.

XD Dark Ride received an award from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) for “Best New Product” in the category of Family Entertainment Centers.

JERRY SEINFELD SCHEDULES FOUR SHOWS IN 2017 AT CAESARS PALACE

Legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld will return to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for four nights of stand-up comedy this year on June 17-18 and Sept. 8-9 at 7:30 p.m. He has headlined The Colosseum since December 2003 Tickets range from $82.50 - $165.

Seinfeld’s comedy career took off after his first appearance on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” in 1981. Eight years later with fellow comedian Larry David, they created “Seinfeld,” which became the most successful comedy series in television history running nine award-winning seasons on NBC. Seinfeld’s latest project is the critically-acclaimed web series “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.”

VAN MORRISON PAYS A VISIT TO THE COLOSSEUM

Rock artist Van Morrison will stop at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Jan. 13 and 14 with performances at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $56.50 to $257.

Raised in Ireland, Morrison grew up on his father’s collection of blues, country and gospel music and 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 went on to record the hits “Gloria” and “Here Comes the Night.” A few years later, he released the Top 40 pop sensation “Brown Eyed Girl” and began his solo career as a musician. He has since released more than 30 albums.

MANY ‘AMERICA’S GOT TALENT’ CONTESTANTS LAND IN VEGAS

Whether passing through Vegas or landing a permanent gig, “America’s Got Talent” (AGT) contestants often infiltrate the city’s entertainment landscape. Most famous is ventriloquist Terry Fator who has headlined at The Mirage more than 10 years and Mat Franco, who was AGT’s first and only magician to win in the show’s history, has been starring in his own show at the LINQ.

We often see Michael Grimm, the NBC’s hit show’s fifth season winner, around town at different locations. He’s booked the first Friday of every month this year in the Rocks Lounge at Red Rock beginning with Jan. 6. He’ll be appearing at Bailiwick at The Orleans Jan. 7 and 2, Feb. 4 and 18; The Martini in Summerlin on Jan. 28; and the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay with no cover on Wednesday, Jan. 25. Grimm with his Southern manner headlined the first-ever national “America’s Got Talent Tour” and followed it by touring with the legendary Stevie Nicks and Heart playing to arenas of 20,000.

AGT show finalists Piff the Magic Dragon with his famous dog Mr. Piffles has been performing in Bugsy’s Cabaret at the Flamingo when he’s not touring and now he’ll be sharing the room beginning Feb. 22 with a finalist from this past season Tape Face. One became famous wearing a dragon costume and the other for never talking and having black tape over his mouth. It appears Las Vegas is a perfect destination for many AGT acts.

‘AMERICAN IDOL’ WINNER KRIS ALLEN WILL VISIT SUNCOAST

Singer-songwriter Kris Allen will perform at the Suncoast Showroom on Saturday, Jan. 14 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29.

Allen captured the winning spot on the eighth season of “American Idol,” which launched his musical career. The Arkansas native released his self-titled studio album with hit singles “Live Like We’re Dying,” which went Platinum selling more than 1.7 million copies, and “The Truth.” In 2012, Allen released his second full-length studio album with the single “The Vision of Love,” which reached No. 5 on the U.S. charts. His 2014 album “Horizons” peaked at No. 10 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Early last year, Allen released his fourth album, “Letting You In.”

TENORS OF ROCK STARTING RESIDENCY AT HARRAH’S

“Tenors Of Rock” comprised of five blokes from the UK will begin a regular gig at Harrah’s Showroom on Wednesday, Jan. 11 and run weekly though Sunday with shows at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $35 to $99.

Tenors Of Rock are bringing reimagined versions of some of the most beloved rock anthems and biggest songs of all-time to life in a fresh twist on the traditional rock show. Powered by five burly British frontmen backed by a full band and choreographed dancers, the all-new production will feature dynamic and harmonically complex renditions of treasured songs from groups like Aerosmith, Queen, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, The Rolling Stones, and more.

RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS CONTINUE AS HARRAH’S HEADLINERS

The Righteous Brothers now featuring Bucky Heard with Bill Medley are appearing at Harrah’s Showroom Tuesday-Thursday at 6 p.m. Tickets range from $49 to $125.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame duo of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield topped the charts in four decades. With Hatfield’s passing, Medley joined forces with versatile vocalist Bucky Heard to happily bring the Righteous Brothers back to the stage with contagious hits like “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” “Unchained Melody,” and Medley’s Grammy-winning “The Time of My Life.”

CHRIS BOTTI BRINGS JAZZ TO RED ROCK

Chris Botti will appear in concert at the Red Rock Ballroom on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $35 to $75.

Botti has become the largest-selling American instrumental artist since the release of his 2004 critically-acclaimed album “When I Fall In Love.” His success has crossed over to audiences usually reserved for pop music and his ongoing association with PBS led to his four No. 1 jazz albums. His album “Impressions” won a Grammy Award for “Best Pop Instrumental Album” in 2013.

CAESARS VEGAS RESORTS WILL CELEBRATE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER

Chinese New Year is recognized as the most important Chinese holiday and the sixth annual Chinese New Year in the Desert™ will celebrate the year of the rooster in multiple locations over a four-day period from Friday, Jan. 27 to Monday, Jan. 30. Participating Caesars Entertainment venues will include: The LINQ Promenade, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood and The LINQ Theater.

The LINQ Promenade will have the Dragon Dance and Chinese cultural performances from 6-9 p.m. on Jan. 27 and 30 and from 1:30-9 p.m. on Jan. 28-29 with appearances by professional dancers from Sichuan dance troupe and local Chinese communities on the Fountain Stage. Dragon dance performances by Lohan School of Shaolin will be held nightly at 6 p.m.

The High Roller will be lit red and gold to mark the beginning of the festivities on the night of Friday, Jan. 27.

The Tsingtao Beer Tasting will allow visitors to taste the Lunar New Years-themed cocktail or sample beer from Tsingtao, the second largest brewery in China, at the Tsingtao booth at The LINQ Promenade.

There will be live large-scale spray paint shows by Visual Art Images and the Chinese New Year-themed artwork will be for sale at a special rate at The LINQ Promenade.

There will be a Chinese New Year Celebration Gala at The LINQ Theater on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 2:35-3:30 p.m.

ISLEY BROTHERS WILL HEADLINE STAR OF THE DESERT ARENA IN PRIMM

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Isley Brothers will appear live in concert on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 8 p.m. at Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nev., which is only 25 miles south of Las Vegas. Tickets start at $30 with room packages including two concert tickets and a one-night stay at Buffalo Bills available starting at $109.95.

The Isley Brothers, Ronald and Ernie, made their initial mark on the music scene with their first million-selling single “Shout” in 1959, which they wrote. During the group’s early music career, they brought Jimi Hendrix and Elton John on tour before each musician pursued their own solo musical paths. Other Top 40 hits by the brothers include: “Twist & Shout,” “This Old Heart of Mine,” “Who’s That Lady,” “Summer Breeze,” and the Grammy Award smash tune “It’s Your Thing,” recorded on their own label T-Neck Records.

DINING NEWS ITEMS

As mentioned before…at The Venetian, the French-American db Brasserie restaurant will close with the final dinner service on Sunday, Jan. 8. Meanwhile, it will be open through Tuesday, Jan. 3, closed Jan. 4-7 for a private event, and then the last night Jan. 8.

The Charcoal Room at Palace Station will host a five-course dinner pairing with wines from Kendall-Jackson winery on Feb. 2 from 6-8 p.m. The dinner will feature a wine expert from the Santa Rosa, Calif.,-based Kendall-Jackson winery. Cost is $55, 702-221-6678.

ENDING 2016 WITH MANY SHOW CLOSURES

Many shows closed in Las Vegas this past year. Some were long-running shows like “Jubilee” at Bally’s, “Jersey Boys” at Paris, Matt Goss at Caesars Palace, “The Improv at Harrah’s, “Zarkana” at Aria, and Gordie Brown at the Golden Nugget.

Some were upstarts that you probably never heard of like “Puppet Up” at The Venetian, “Twisted Vegas” at Westgate, “One Epic Night” at The Plaza, “Spoofical” at Planet Hollywood, “Yes, You Can’t” at El Cortez, Michael Monge at Encore,”53X” at Paris, and at the Tropicana “Cherry Boom Boom” and “Band of Magicians.”

Still other shows may have closed but either the show or its stars show up around town and have a following. Some of those shows were: Dirk Arthur’s “Wild Magic” at Westgate, Frankie Moreno’s “Under the Influence” at Planet Hollywood, Zowie Bowie at Downtown Grand, “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” at Bally’s Windows Showroom, and “Country Superstars” at Hooters.

One of “America’s Got Talent” winners, ventriloquist Paul Zerdin didn’t last long with his “Mouthing Off” at Planet Hollywood even though it was a good show. There just may not have been enough room in town for an extra ventriloquist especially since Jeff Dunham headlines on and off in town and will bring his “Perfectly Unbalance” show to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning March 8. He will return for 14 consecutive weeks, with one show a week from June 16-Sept. 13. Plus another famous ventriloquist Ronn Lucas occasionally plays Las Vegas.

The most recent show closures were: “Million Dollar Quartet” at Harrah’s on Dec. 4; “Showstoppers” at Wynn on Dec. 31; and “Rock of Ages” at the Rio on Jan. 1.

While “Raiding the Rock Vault” closed at the Tropicana, it will be opening again at the 650-seat Vinyl room inside the Hard Rock on March 11 with shows Saturday to Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. The new location may be a perfect fit for this ultimate rock concert experience featuring members of some of the greatest rock bands in history.

The one we won’t even discuss was the sudden closing of Jan Rouven’s “Illusions” at the Tropicana since he’s in jail.

MISC. NEWS TIPS

Didn’t get the notice in time; however, Noelia’s concert originally scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 29 was postponed with a reschedule 2017 date TBD.

The famously irreverent glam metal rock band, Steel Panther with frontman Michael Starr performed at Drai’s Nightclub atop The Cromwell last Nov. 17 and they will return on Thursday, Jan. 19. Hailing from Los Angeles, where they racked up the longest-running residency ever on the Sunset Strip, Steel Panther has taken sold-out arenas around the world by storm.

GRACEDBYGRIT, a high-performance women’s athletic apparel company in Tivoli Village, will host a “Gritty Girls Weekend” for young girls and teens. The complimentary Las Vegas Girls Empowerment Exhibition from 2:30 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7 hosted at Lorenzi Park will feature a tennis exhibition with junior professional tennis player Zoe Scandalis and other young athletes; team games; guest speakers; gift bags; and a girl’s dance party. On Sunday, Jan. 8 there will be a self-empowerment workshop, GRITTYGIRLS, from 3 to 4 p.m. Cost is $15.

“BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW”

DATE: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017

BY: Jackie Brett

VEGAS COLUMN

CHICAGO - THE DOOBIE BROTHERS WILL CO-HEADLINE PARK THEATER

Two of the most successful and critically acclaimed rock bands Chicago and The Doobie Brothers – who have sold more than 150 million records combined – will co-headline a North American summer tour this year. The 30-plus major cities tour will bring the Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum selling groups to the Park Theater at Monte Carlo on Friday, June 9.

Chicago, which celebrates their 50th anniversary as a band this year and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, came in at No. 9 and the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine’s Hot 200 All-Time Top Artists. Chicago has toured every year since the beginning and never missed a year. The band’s award-winning documentary film, “Now More Than Ever: The History Of Chicago,” premiered on CNN on New Year’s Day 2017. The film is the most comprehensive history of the group’s achievements. Additionally, a remastered version of the band’s classic album “Chicago II” – “Chicago II: Steven Wilson Remix” – will be available Jan. 27.

The Doobie Brothers have sold more than 48 million albums and won four Grammy® Awards. Their latest studio album, “Southbound,” features new recordings of the band’s biggest hits, with country music’s biggest stars including Blake Shelton, Zac Brown Band, Brad Paisley and Toby Keith.

R&B SINGER KEITH SWEAT HAS LIMITED ENGAGEMENT AT FLAMINGO

Platinum-selling R&B singer Keith Sweat will perform 15 times in the Donny & Marie Showroom at the Flamingo with a Vegas show, “Keith Sweat: Last Forever,” Jan. 17 through Feb. 4. Joining the famed singer-songwriter will be stand-up comedian and long-serving MADtv cast member, Aries Spears. Tickets for the 7:30 performances begin at $59.

In celebration of Sweat’s 30th anniversary triple-platinum album, “Make It Last Forever,” fans can anticipate hearing a variety of his notable hits including “I Want Her,” “Twisted” and “Nobody.” Sweat was born in Harlem, N.Y., and originally worked for the commodities market at the New York Stock Exchange before he was discovered singing at a nightclub in 1987. Since then, Sweat has released 11 albums, delivered five straight No. 1 albums, and sold more than 25 million records.

JOHN FOGERTY WILL DEBUT AT WYNN THIS YEAR

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member and rock music legend, John Fogerty, will make his debut at Wynn with his acclaimed show, “John Fogerty: Fortunate Son In Concert,” at the Encore Theater for 10 performances from March 3–11 and May 19–28. Last year, Fogerty did eight shows in January and nine shows in September at The Venetian.

With a career spanning more than 50 years, Fogerty added to his long list of accomplishments with his memoir “Fortunate Son: My Life, My Music” released in 2015.

The autobiographical account takes readers through the highs and lows of his life and musical career as a member of Creedence Clearwater Revival and as a solo artist.

JOURNEY HAS NINE-SHOW MAY RESIDENCY PLANNED AT HARD ROCK

Legendary rock band Journey, which has been named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2017 class of inductees, will return to The Joint at the Hard Rock for a second, nine-show residency, Wednesday to Saturday, May 3-20. The Hall’s 32nd annual induction ceremony will take place on April 7 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and HBO will show highlights later.

Journey had a wildly successful nine-show run at the Hard Rock in 2015. This time and for the first time in the United States, Journey will perform its seventh studio album, “Escape,” and the band’s eighth studio album, “Frontiers,” in their entirety on select Wednesday dates: May 3,10 and 17. Tickets start at $59.50.

THE CHAINSMOKERS SIGN MULTI-YEAR RESIDENCY WITH WYNN NIGHTLIFE

Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum pop duo, The Chainsmokers, comprised of Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall, have agreed to make XS Nightclub and Encore Beach Club their exclusive U.S. club venues. This will be an exclusive three-year residency with the two Wynn Nightlife venues becoming the only nightclub and dayclub in the United States where the hitmakers will perform beginning last Friday at XS Nightclub with additional performance dates through May 2017.

The Chainsmokers experienced a meteoric rise winning Favorite Electronic Dance Music Artist at the 2016 American Music Awards, and their success continues with three 2017 Grammy Award nominations for Best Dance Recording, Best Pop/Duo Performance, and Best New Artist.

I LOVE THE ‘90S TOUR WILL VISIT THE HARD ROCK

With sold out shows all over the country, the popular I Love The ‘90s Tour will make a stop at The Joint at Hard Rock on Friday, Feb. 3 at 9 p.m. The memorable decade will be represented in Las Vegas by superstar acts… Vanilla Ice, Sugar Ray’s Mark McGrath, Naughty By Nature, All-4-One, Tone Loc and Young MC. Tickets start at $45.

The I Love The ‘90s Tour continues to dominate as the nostalgia-driven go-to tour. Show attendees get to reminisce about the trend-setting decade with some of the most iconic, indelible names in rap, hip hop, pop and R&B.

SOCIAL PLAYGROUND LOUNGE LEVEL UP OPENS AT MGM GRAND

LEVEL UP, a new “place to play” concept lounge, opened at MGM Grand on Dec. 29 presenting a new era in interactive, skill-based fun. The tech savvy, adult playground is located between Hakkasan Nightclub and the MGM Grand Race and Sports Book. It features pay-to-play offerings in a social atmosphere.

THE VENETIAN DEBUTS COWORKING LOUNGE POWERED BY ZAPPOS

The Venetian®, The Palazzo®, and Sands® Expo, in partnership with Zappos, are now offering guests access to a first-of-its-kind coworking space located on level two of The Venetian | The Palazzo Congress Center. The lounge will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with hours subject to change based on the needs and utilization of the Congress Center. Zappos team members are staffing the lounge and sharing the Zappos service philosophy of “delivering happiness” with every “collision” they make with a guest.

Tapping into a growing trend of creating collaborative workspaces, the newly opened 1,170-square-foot pop-up lounge offers space to recharge, huddle areas for collaboration, and a conference room for small meetings. The space is enclosed for noise management, but is also transparent to invite guests to take advantage of the amenities, which include Wi-Fi, charging stations, four private phone rooms, and a private conference room that seats six. The furnishings are by a new store Restoration Hardware at Tivoli Village.

HAWTHORN GRILL DEBUTS AT JW MARRIOTT

Hawthorn Grill is a new steakhouse opening at the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa on Sunday, Jan. 15 marking the first new restaurant opening in the Summerlin resort in five years. Situated in the Spa Tower, Hawthorn Grill is more than 18,000 square feet with seating for more than 370 guests in the main dining room, outdoor patio, and lounge.

The chic main dining room features banquettes and tables as well as secluded, draped areas for a romantic dinner. The spacious outdoor patio area has sounds of the nearby waterfalls and beautiful foliage, including the restaurant’s namesake Hawthorn bush. The outdoor area also includes fire pits and heaters for winter. Two private dining rooms can seat groups from 18-40 and semi-private patios run alongside the larger private dining room as well as a small reception area, good for a small wedding or special event.

The menu mixes traditional steakhouse fare and American classics with updated flavors accompanied by an extensive wine and cocktail program. The Executive Chef Joseph Swam was formerly with the Eiffel Tower Restaurant and the general manager Christian Umlauf comes from db Brasserie also on the Strip. The restaurant will be open daily for breakfast, including a signature breakfast buffet, dinner, and bar hours.

MARIO BASNER’S WORLD HERITAGE COLLECTION OPENS AT TIVOLI VILLAGE

The internationally celebrated World Heritage Collection by award winning photographer Mario Basner will be hosting a world premiere at Tivoli Village on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and will be open to the public for free through Feb. 28. The extraordinary collection celebrates diversity and culture by capturing evocative and moving images that explore the beauty of urban cityscapes and unique architectural structures.

For the series’ first installment, Basner takes guests on a visual journey through the history and humanity of an abandoned sanitarium found in Germany. Built in 1898 as a treatment center for tuberculosis, the hospital complex was the largest of its kind and a world leader in research and treatment. It included 60 buildings and park-like grounds amidst a scenic forest located one hour south of Berlin. The majority of the complex had been abandoned since 1994, but as of 2016, the site has been re-purposed and the buildings underwent a complete remodel. The images have historic relevance, capturing the final state of decay before all traces of history were painted over and disappeared forever.

Basner was born in Hamburg, Germany, and is renowned for the realism and depth in his photographs. After nurturing his artistic abilities in a 25-year music career and using photography as a creative outlet, he perfected his style and in recent years transitioned to the photography medium in order to fully express himself and his own vision. The World Heritage Collection constitutes the culmination of a life’s pursuit. To date his work has been recognized with 10 major international photography awards. Basner currently resides in Las Vegas.

BOULEVARD MALL CHANGES WITH THE TIMES

The Boulevard Mall located not far from the Strip at Maryland Parkway and Desert Inn opened on March 6, 1968, and was the first enclosed, climate-controlled shopping mall to open in Nevada. The retro single-story super-regional mall like other comparable shopping malls across the country is experiencing the challenge of changing with the times especially when huge anchor stores close. It’s been announced that the Macy’s store at The Boulevard Mall is among the 68 store closures taking place in this year. Future plans for the space are yet to be determined.

Back in 2008, the mall’s two-story anchor Dillard’s store closed and remained empty until a 28,000-square-foot Goodwill thrift store opened in October 2015, occupying part of the first floor of the old store. It was the first Goodwill store to open inside an enclosed shopping mall. A 60,000-square-foot John’s Incredible Pizza Company restaurant opened in December 2015, taking up the remainder of Dillard’s ground floor.

Last month, the 31,000-square-foot of interactive, educational hands-on SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium opened at the mall. Adding entertainment components is what many malls are incorporating to keep up with the times.

IRATION, THE GREEN AND PROTOJE BRING REGGAE MUSIC TO HARD ROCK

Hawaiian reggae stars Iration bring their Lost & Found Winter Tour to The Joint at Hard Rock on Friday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m. They will be joined by special guests The Green reggae band formed in Oahu, Hawaii, in 2009 and reggae artist Protoje from Jamaica. Tickets start at $39.50

Iration is an alternative/reggae group of musicians formed in Isla Vista, Calif. A deep-rooted reggae influence is fused with elements of rock and pop to create smooth original sounds. All of the members of Iration met while growing up in Hawaii but formed the band after reconnecting in Santa Barbara, Calif., with the exception being Micah Brown who officially joined the group in 2014. These Hawaiian-bred musicians look forward to spreading their original sound and Aloha spirit while never forgetting to get surf time in whenever possible.

RAO’S CAESARS PALACE COMMEMORATES 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Rao’s restaurant at Caesars Palace will celebrate its 10th anniversary by featuring “Rao’s Classics” four-course dinner prepared by co-owner Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Chef de Cuisine Fatimah Madyun on Thursday, Jan. 12. The special family-style menu is $150 per person and will kick off at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception on the patio, along with live music. For reservations, call 702-731-7778.

The original Rao’s in New York City opened in 1896 and is one of the oldest family owned restaurants in the city, and with only 10 tables is one of the hardest places to get into. The Las Vegas version features a replica of the 10-table landmark as well as an open-air patio, center bar, private dining and event space, complete with its infamous bright red awning and Christmas decorations.

D.VINO AT MONTE CARLO FEATURES ANNUAL MUSSEL FESTIVAL

At the Monte Carlo, d.vino Italian Food & Wine Bar is kicking off the year with the return of the annual mussel festival. Executive Chef Martin Garcia has prepared a menu with five different interpretations centered around fresh mussels available for a limited time, Jan. 9 through Feb. 5. The menu includes: Italian mussels and pasta; Neapolitan style mussels; Mussel and spicy Italian sausage; Mussels and saffron; and Baked stuffed mussels.

QUICK TIPS

The Pete Rose Sports Bar & Grill opened in October 2015 in the Hawaiian Marketplace shopping complex on the Strip. In August 2016, Rose’s name was removed from the restaurant’s signage and the restaurant was stripped of its baseball theme but floundered and closed anyway last year. Surprise, the dining replacement will be the Heart Attack Grill making it the restaurant company’s second location in Las Vegas with the first venue being downtown at Neonopolis. The Heart Attack Grill’s gimmick is customers must wear hospital gowns and waitresses are dressed as nurses. One of the restaurant’s signature offers is customers who weigh 350 pounds or more dine free.

While Journey will be at the Hard Rock in May, Lights – A Tribute to Journey show will appear in Rocks Lounge at the Red Rock Resort on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 4 and 6 p.m. The show features world-class musicians and singers, including players who have worked with and backed legendary artists including Celine Dion and David Foster. Tickets are $15 general admission.

The Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival will return to the streets of Downtown Las Vegas Sept. 22-24.

CES® 2017 CELEBRATED 50 YEARS AND CANON RAISED FUNDS FOR NCMEC

CES, the world’s largest gathering place for the business of consumer technologies, was just in Las Vegas, Jan. 5-8 celebrating its 50th anniversary and attracting more than 165,000 attendees.

One business attendee Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, continued its commitment to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC) by hosting the 20th annual Canon Customer Appreciation Reception during the CES convention and sponsoring the NCMEC Celebrity Golf Tournament. The two-day event raises funds and awareness for child safety.

More than 50 celebrities, elected officials and patrons of NCMEC participated including special guest Oscar Nominee Bryan Cranston, star of the new movie “Why Him?” and the AMC crime drama series “Breaking Bad,” and NCMEC co-founder John Walsh and host of CNN’s “The Hunt with John Walsh.”

AREA TOURISM NOTES

Las Vegas for the fourth consecutive year has been named the World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination by the 2016 World Travel Awards.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has moved forward with expansion plans for its Las Vegas Convention Center District (LVCCD) project, which will expand and renovate the current Las Vegas Convention Center property. Phase I already included the demolition of the Riviera Hotel and Casino and repaving the site and unveiling the Diamond Lot, a parking and outdoor exhibition space.

Las Vegas has been named Best U.S. City in Travel Weekly’s 14th annual Readers Choice Awards. Ranging in 78 categories, the awards honor the best of the best in travel and were presented in December at a black-tie gala in New York.

The Las Vegas City Council approved a $425,000 grant from the Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial to expand the Neon Museum, a nonprofit organization preserving Las Vegas signs. The grant will be used to purchase .27-acres of land adjacent to the current museum property.

Vegas View - August 28, 2016

Vegas View - September 4, 2016

Vegas View - September 11, 2016

Vegas View - September 18, 2016

Vegas View - September 25, 2016

Vegas View - October 2, 2016

Vegas View - October 9, 2016

Vegas View - October 16, 2016

Vegas View - October 23, 2016

Vegas View - October 30, 2016

Vegas View - November 6, 2016

Vegas View - November 13, 2016

Vegas View - November 20, 2016

Vegas View - November 27, 2016

Vegas View - December 4, 2016

Vegas View - December 11, 2016

Vegas View - December 18, 2016

Vegas View - December 25, 2016

Vegas View - January 1, 2017

Vegas View - January 8, 2017