Las Vegas News

Mr Vegas is Back in Town:

After a lengthy break from Sin City, beginning tonight Wayne Newton is back performing at Harrah's until 7/7/07. Tickets start at $86.35, including tax but excluding phone charges.

Cannery East Breaks Ground:

Today's the day of the groundbreaking for the new Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel, on the site of the former Nevada Palace on Boulder Hwy. at Harmon Ave. The new property is planned to have 65,000 square feet of casino space, including a sports book and poker room, in addition to a 307-room hotel.

Dean Martin Dr. Extension Open:

We've just heard that the new portion of Dean Martin Drive is now open. This road, which intersects Blue Diamond just west of the Silverton Casino Lodge, will serve as the main access to the casino's self parking and valet. (The original section of Dean Martin Drive, which runs parallel to the Strip to the west, was formerly called Industrial Road.)

QoD Archives Open Tomorrow:

Lots of people have read the preview of tomorrow's Question of the Day and are writing in complaining that the archives still require a password to access. That's because QoD's birthday isn't until tomorrow, which is when the archives will be opened. So be patient -- we haven't even baked the cake yet!

SKYLOFTS Team With Porsche:

SKYLOFTS, the 51 two-story luxury apartments at MGM Grand, is teaming with Porsche Cars North America to offer "Inspired Escape" packages that include a Porsche sports car or 2008 Cayenne SUV -- complete with an Inspired Escapes Butler to plan every drive for you. Reservations for this new package begin today for bookings starting May 1, 2007. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.skyloftsmgmgrand.com or call 877/646-5638.

N.Y. Approves Online Race Bets:

The New York State Racing and Wagering Board has approved the New York Racing Association's (NYRA) application to provide pari-mutuel wagering via the Internet, following legislation authorizing Internet wagering, which went into effect in NY state on January 22, 2007.

Four Kegs on The Food Network:

Local favorite the Four Kegs will be featured tonight on The Food Network show "Diners, Dives and Drive-Ins" for its great stromboli. The show airs at 10 pm PST and there will be a viewing party at the Kegs tonight from 8 p.m. to midnight. LVA members can check out our "Locals Corner" review of this place in the July 2006 issue.

Jackie Gaughan in the R-J:

Check out today's LV Review-Journal for a story about Jackie Gaughan, owner of the El Cortez. Gaughan is one of the last of the early operators and once owned several downtown casinos. The El Cortez has been steadily renovating, but continues to be one of the top value casinos in Las Vegas.

Canyon Club Opens at 4 Queens:

The Canyon Club, a popular L.A. nightspot, opens its new Vegas venue inside the 4 Queens downtown tonight at 5 p.m. It's a nightclub that features live music and dining -- the debuting band is the Tubes. Admission $20 at the door.

Cheap Designer Denim!:

From 11 a.m.-9 p.m. today, there's a huge designer denim sale in the Ballrooms at Circus Circus. It's $3 on the door to get in, with up to 80% of denims, tops, pants, hoodies, and sweats for men and women.

Vegas Real Estate on TV:

Southern California residents interested in the Las Vegas property market can tune in tomorrow and Sunday to the "Best Deals" TV show hosted by Alan Mendelson on KCAL-9. The show features a segment on Las Vegas real estate, including two condo projects in downtown Vegas and a single family home in the southwest of the city. The show airs Saturday morning at 1:30 a.m. and repeats Sunday at 11:30 a.m.

Hans Klok Update:

As suspected earlier, due to Carmen Elektra's departure and the fact that the valiant Pamela Anderson's had no time to rehearse, the grand opening of The Beauty of Magic has been pushed back to June 2, with previews running from May 24-26. Tickets for all previews will be $35, with seats priced at $35, $65, and $105 thereafter.

Strip Las Vegas Girl Search:

Tonight at 9 p.m. at Crazy Horse Too gentlemen's club, Strip Las Vegas magazine will be hosting its monthly contest searching for a new local cover girl. The winner will receive a $50,000 contract with the mag.

Pammy Replaces Elektra:

It's been announced that Carmen Elektra has pulled out of magician Hans Klok's upcoming The Beauty of Magic show at planet hollywood, in which she was due to guest star. The good news, however, is that Pamela Anderson will be filling the role instead. The show was due to debut May 12 and the property had no contrary information when we called them; however, we've also seen June 2 cited as the grand opening date, so watch this space for updates.

This Weekend in Vegas:

It's a big weekend for music with some major headliners in town and the beginning of the outdoor party season heralded by al fresco concerts, wine-tastings, and of course BBQ. Don't forget the sunblock -- it's going to be a hot one! Music: Aerosmith play the Mandalay Bay Events Center (4/28/07); Tool will be appearing at the Palms new Pearl venue (4/27/07); Interpol will be appearing at the Joint at the Hark Rock (4/28/07) and the Rock's poolside concert series, Friday Night Live, kicks off with Aussie rockers JET (4/27/07) Berlin will be appearing at the Red Rock Resort - for FREE! (4/27/07-4/28/07); Camden, A Heart Well Ending, A Skylit Drive, and Don't Die Cindy will all be at the University Theatre (4/27/07), and also performing at the University Theatre will be Fletch, The Cab, Victim Effect, Luv You Long Time, National Product (4/28/07) and Fletch, Verbatym, You In Series, Kidd Gorgeous, and Ministry of Love (4/29/07); Escape: A tribute to Journey will be at the Silverton (4/27/07); Patti Page will be performing at Whiskey Pete's (4/27/07-4/28/07); Richard Marx plays the Orleans (4/27/07); Sawyer Brown will be at Boulder Station (4/27/07); Smooth C Entertainment Presents: Quest For The Best! at the Cannery (4/27/07); Taylor Dayne will be appearing at Suncoast (4/27/07-4/29/07); performing at Mandalay Bay's House of Blues will be The Decemberists (4/27/07); Ghetto Youths International Presents Stephen Marley (4/28/07); and Hip Hop is Dead Tour 2007 (4/28/07); as will Fall Out Boy (4/29/07); The Alan Parsons Live Project will perform at Boulder Station (4/28/07); Issac Hayes will be at Texas Station (4/28/07); Luke Bryan will perform at Santa Fe Station (4/28/07); and The Smithereens will be at Sunset Station (4/28/07) Comedy: Jay Leno will continue to perform at the Mirage (4/27/07-11/10/07); Roseanne Barr continues her extended runat New York-New York (04/27/07-4/30/07); Howie Mandel will be at the MGM Grand (4/27/07-5/2/07); and Bert Kreischer and Stephen Rannazzisi will be performing at the Palms as part of the Playboy Comedy Tour (4/28/07) Other: Rock n' Roll Wine's postponed Reggae Pool Party will be at the Golden Nugget (tickets from the canceled event will be valid) (4/27/07); the Female Charitable Triathalon will be held at the Lake Las Vegas Resort (4/28/07); Motown Magic and Memories Festival Temptations Review's at the Cannery (4/28/07); the Orleans Arena hosts Gladiators vs. Orlando (4/29/07); Flavor Sundays starts again at the Empire Ballroom (4/29/07); and lastly, Blues Brew & BBQ 07' will be at the Hogs & Heifers Saloon (4/29/07) For more details about these and other events, plus full listings of all the permanent shows Las Vegas plays home to, click here to use our "Shows & Events" finder, under "Vegas Info."

Palms Minis on Hold:

The Palms has canceled its Thursday blackjack mini tournaments until further notice. The minis were used as qualifiers for the Palms UBT open, which was held last weekend. The minis will be reinstated when the date of the next open event is determined.

METAL SKOOL Debuts:

Hollywood's famous '80s heavy metal comedy act kicks off its eleven week run at the Hard Rock's Body English tonight. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the cover's $15 at the door.

Reggae Pool Party:

The Reggae Pool Party originally scheduled for April 20 last week, has been rescheduled for Friday, April 27, same time, same place (Golden Nugget poolside at 7 p.m.) The event will feature up the to 15 wineries representing more than 50 distinct wines, most notably Reggae Rhapsody, Rock 'n Roll Wine's first wine under their Oregon-based Amplified Wines label. ForTwentyDaze, the roots, dub/rock, reggae band, will perform poolside. Already purchased tickets will be good for April 27, or any future Rock n' Roll Wine event for those who are unable to attend the rescheduled event. Tickets are still available for the April 27 Reggae Pool Party and can be purchased at www.rocknrollwine.com

New Project for South Strip:

MGM Mirage announced today that it will invest in The M Resort, an 80-acre mixed-use development, currently being developed by Anthony A. Marnell III. The project is located on the southeast corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and St. Rose Pkwy., approximately 10 miles south of Bellagio, and will be developed in multiple phases, with the first phase consisting of an Italian contemporary designed resort, spa and casino. The development will apparently feature amenities including an outdoor canyon pool and entertainment venue, oversized guest rooms, panoramic suites, a top-of-the-tower ultra lounge, and a state-of-the-art convention center. Construction work is scheduled to begin over the upcoming weeks and The M Resort is anticipated to debut in mid-2009. Future phases are being designed to include mixed-use development on the remaining 40 acres.

New Exhibit Coming to Bellagio:

The new show taking over from the current Ansel Adams exhibit at The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art has just been announced. Five years in the making, "In the Master's Hands: Picasso's Ceramics," features more than 30 unique ceramic objects by the legendary 20th century artist. The exhibition will be on view from May 25, 2007 through January 14, 2008 with tickets priced at $17 per person, $14 for Nevada residents and seniors 65 and older, and $12 for students.

Slumber Party at Tao:

Vivid contract girl Sunrise Adams, plus the girls from SCORES gentlemen's club, is hosting a slumber party at Tao nightclub at the Venetian tonight. Doors open at 10 p.m. and ladies in slumber party attire get complimentary admission and drink free until midnight.

Ladies Night at Silverton:

The Las Vegas Weekly and the Silverton Casino Lodge are co-hosting a ladies night at the Mermaid Restaurant and Lounge from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. tonight. The soirée will feature complimentary martinis and appetizers, plus free chair massages and the chance to enter a drawing for free concert tickets and dining gift certificates. To RSVP call 702/990-2573 or email rspv@lasvegasweekly.com

Drai's Restaurant to Close:

The after-hours club will remain open until further notice, but Drai's restaurant, the sumptuous French eatery located beneath Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon (formerly Barbary Coast), closes this Saturday.

Ice Opens at the Riviera:

Ice: Direct From Russia, the new ice-skating show at the Riviera that replaces Splash!, debuts today. Tickets are priced $59.95/$69.95 and it's billed as featuring "42 of Russia's most disciplined and athletic performers."

Chef Michael Mina Honored:

Michael Mina, the celebrity chef behind the eponymous restaurant at Bellagio, plus Stripsteak (Mandalay Bay), Seablue, and Nobhill (both at MGM Grand) will be inducted into the American Gaming Industry's Hall of Fame this September. Other new honorees include magician David Copperfield, Clifford Perlman, former CEO of Caesars Palace, and hospitality industry union organizer John Wilhelm.

Hard Rock Adds Dates:

The hard-charging Hard Rock continues to flesh out its mid-tier concert schedule at the Joint. Just announced are dates by Third Eye Blind (May 19), The Roots (June 8), and Lindsey Buckingham (June 9). The roster is full of name bands, such as Steve Winwood, BB King/Al Green, and the Killers, and tickets for many are under $50. Watch our weekend-events lists for details.

S. Africa Backs Online Gaming:

South Africa has announced its plan to join the growing number of other countries, including Poland, Spain, Italy, Singapore, Hungary, and the United Kingdom, and embrace a legal and regulated online gambling industry.

Stratosphere To Be Sold:

Entrepreneur Carl Icahn's American Entertainment Properties Corp. is selling the Stratosphere and two Arizona Charlie's properties in Las Vegas, plus the Aquarius Casino in Laughlin, for $1.3 billion. The buyer is Whitehall Street Real Estate Funds, an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. "Our gaming investments are a successful example of our strategy of acquiring undervalued and out of favor assets, and improving operations and enhancing value," commented Icahn. Assuming approval is forthcoming from the Nevada Gaming Commisson and State Gaming Control Board, the parties anticipate the transaction will complete in eight months.

Roseanne Extends:

Comedienne Roseanne Barr is extending her All You Can Eat Comedy show at New York–New York, with dates now running through June 17. Show times are 8 p.m. daily, dark Wednesday and Thursday. Tickets can be purchased at the Zumanity Box Office at New York–New York, by calling 866/606-7111 or online at www.nynyhotelcasino.com.

New Jumbo Bingo Jackpot:

There's a new Jumbo Bingo Jackpot, which offers Boarding Pass (Station Casinos) and Amigo Club (Fiesta) members the chance to win $50,000 cash or, for the first time, free slot play if you're playing when the jackpot hits. For a limited time, Station Casinos will guarantee a minimum of $25 in free slot play when the jackpot hits for every Jumbo Bingo pack purchased that session and the promotion will now also be available for the first time at Fiesta Rancho and Fiesta Henderson, replacing the properties' Grande Bingo jackpot.

Billy Walters in WSJ:

Today's Wall Street Journal has a surprising front-page story about legendery gambler Billy Walters. The surprising aspect is that this story's focus is Walters' real estate dealings in Las Vegas golf courses. The story touches only briefly on gambling, but gambling is what Billy Walters is all about. You can read more about Walters' incredible gambling exploits in three books. Michael Konik writes about him (though he's not named) in two books. The first is a chapter called "The Line Mover" in his book Telling Lies and Getting Paid. The second is the whole Walters sports betting story in the recently released book The Smart Money. In The Smart Money, Billy Walters is the betting-syndicate kingpin Rick Matthews. But to get the absolute best look into the exploits of Walters, read the huge interview in Richard Munchkin's Gambling Wizards.

Light Show:

The Palms debuted its new music venue, Pearl, last night with an attempt to set a world record for the number of sky-trackers (spotlights) used at one time. The reported 160 units in use lit up the sky and the affect was enhanced by the lights bouncing off the many electrical lines in the area. It was quite a site.

MGM Mirage N. Strip Numbers:

We now know that MGM Mirage paid $575 million for the 34 acres of land north of Circus Circus that we reported earlier this week. That comes to $16.9 million an acre for the last large parcel of vacant Strip property; the acreage has been unoccupied since 1960, when the El Rancho Vegas burned to the ground. The south end of the El Rancho Vegas acreage houses a Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare tower and the Sky Las Vegas luxury-condo highrise.

Vegas This Weekend:

Here it is: Music: Eddie Money’s at Boulder Station (04/20/07); Najee will be at the Suncoast (04/20/07); UniversityTheatre hosts Blood Brothers, Celebration, and The Dead Science (04/20/07), followed by 10 Bands $10 (04/22/07); at Mandalay Bay’s House of Blues it’s Stonesour (04/20/07) and then Ice Cube with WC (04/22/07); Ricky Martin’s at the Mandalay Bay Events Center (04/21/07); The Original Dreamgirl: Mary Wilson of the Supremes will be at the Golden Nugget (04/20/07-04/21/07). It’s the much-anticipated Gwen Stefani gig at the Palms (04/21/07); Jason Michael Carrol’s at Santa Fe Station (04/21/07); Skip Martin will be at the Stratosphere (04/21/07); and The Spinners will be at the Silverton (04/21/07) Comedy: Roseanne Barr continues her headlining run at New York-New York (03/15/07-04/30/07); Wayne Brady’s at the Venetian (04/05/07-04/29/07); Bill Maher’s at the Hard Rock (04/20/07-04/21/07); Craig Ferguson will be at the Orleans (04/20/07-04/22/07); Howie Mandel’s at the MGM (04/20/07-05/02/07); Ray Romano and Brad Garrett will be performing at the Mirage (04/20/07-04/21/07); and it's the Die Trying Comedy Night at the University Theatre (04/21/07) Other: the NORML Music Festival takes place at the Ice House Lounge (04/20/07-04/21/07); the FEI World Cup Finals are at the Thomas and Mack (04/18/07-04/22/07); it’s the Arabian Breeders World Cup at the South Point (04/20/07-04/22/07); the Pure Aloha Festival will be at the Cannery (04/20/07-04/22/07); the Montelago Village Fine Arts Festival will be at Lake Las Vegas (04/21/07-04/22/07); from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. there will be a community blood drive at the Hash House A Go Go (04/21/07); The Freakin’ Frog’s hosting an Austin Texas BBQ (04/22/07); Bare, the pool at the Mirage, is having a grand opening, with open bar, from noon-2 p.m. (04/22/07) and also this weekend it’s the grand opening of Element Nightclub located at 1030 E. Flamingo Rd. (04/20/07) For more details about these and other events, plus full listings of all the permanent shows Las Vegas plays home to, click here to use our "Shows & Events" finder, under "Vegas Info."

Jumbo Alert:

Station Casinos' Jumbo Jackpot is ready to pop. It's currently at $144,000 and it must hit by $150,000. If you're playing in a Stations property with your Boarding Pass card inserted, you get $50 in free slot play. It's a good tie-breaker for choosing a place to play.

Charlie’s Turns 19:

Celebrate Arizona Charlie’s (Decatur) 19th Anniversary on Sunday, April 22 with FREE cake and champagne being served from noon to 8 pm in the casino and get a FREE commemorative T-shirt after you earn just 19 points.

Biggest Gets Bigger:

MGM Mirage has announced that it is increasing the size of Project CityCenter, already the biggest project in Las Vegas history, by 670,000 square feet and $400 million. This now sets the budget for PCC at a cool $7.4 billion.

UBT Championship at Palms:

The main event begins today at the Palms, with many of the top blackjack (and poker) players competing to get to tomorrow's televised final. Entry fee is $2,700 and will be open till mid-day. The tournament is being held in the Key West Ballroom, just off the sports book and is open to the public. Come check out the giant Ultimate Blackjack Tour set and some of the best tournament blackjack players in the world.

CityCenter 2?:

MGM Mirage has purchased nearly 35 acres on the north end of the Strip -- from Circus Circus to Sahara Avenue -- with the possible intention of creating a second Project CityCenter. The purchase gives MGM 100 contiguous acres of land to be used for such a project. How? We tend to forget that Circus Circus is owned by MGM Mirage, and that site is adjacent to the buy.

Palms UBT Tournament:

The Palms' open UBT tournament begins today with sit-n-gos and satellites for the main event on Friday. A $500 super satellite for seats into the $2,700 championship runs today at 4 pm.

Planet Hollywood Debuts:

Planet Hollywood has announced its grand-opening dates: September 28-29. Though the name of the former Aladdin was officially changed yesterday, the true debut of the new brand is still half a year away.

Condos for Millionaires:

The owners of the Venetian/Palazzo mentioned in an SEC filing yesterday that the asking price per square foot of the residential-condo component of the Palazzo (scheduled to open by the end of this year) could run as high as $2,000. Likewise, MGM Mirage is getting between $1,600 and $2,800 per square foot for condo-hotel units at its Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas in CityCenter. Now you too can have a 600-square-foot studio at CityCenter for $1.7 million.

Palms Pending:

The buffet, that is. By all accounts, the Palms' new Bistro Buffet will debut any day now. It's being touted heavily by the casino. Prices have been announced at $7.99 for breakfast, $9.99 for lunch, and $16.99 for dinner and brunch.

More Red Rock:

Terra Rossa, Red Rock's Italian restaurant is now serving lunch beginning at noon. We've had good reports on this restaurant, which was named "Best Italian Restaurant" in this year's "Best of Las Vegas" poll.

Lots of Lanes:

Red Rock Resort has opened Red Rock Lanes, which it claims is the "largest luxury bowling center in Las Vegas." Along with 72 lanes (some of them designated "VIP lanes"), the center has a game room, deli, and lounge with bottle service.

Stomp Out Loud:

Today is the grand opening for Stomp Out Loud, the new show at Planet Hollywood (formerly the Aladdin). Tickets are $50, $75, and $110; show times are Mon. 6 and 9 p.m.; Tues., Thurs., Fri., and Sun. 7 p.m.; and Sat. 7 and 10 p.m. (dark Wednesday).

Finally -- Planet Hollywood:

The old ("New) Aladdin officially becomes Planet Hollywood today. The long road to the new name will be celebrated throughout the day with celebrities on site to emphasize the new focus of the resort.

Tax Break at Shark Reef:

Avoid the post office lines -- from noon until 10 p.m. today for one day only, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay will be hosting its traditional special United States postal station, with postage available for purchase and a unique Shark Reef cancellation stamp used on all envelopes. Taxpayers who take advantage of this service will receive a free T-shirt and one complimentary admission voucher good through June 30. There will also be prize drawings for offers, including a free one-night stay at MBay or THEhotel.

Free Ice Cream:

Ben & Jerry’s will be holding their "29th Annual FREE Cone Day" at the Galleria Mall At Sunset in Henderson to benefit the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum. All small cones will be FREE with no purchase obligation necessary, but patrons are encouraged to make a donation. Local celebrities will help raise money for the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum by scooping ice cream throughout the day on Tuesday, April 17, from noon to 8 p.m. Celebrities include Mark and Mercedes from Mix 94.1, Norm Clarke from the Review Journal, Amazing Jonathan and Penny, Mosaic and The Scintas. In addition to FREE ice cream cones, patrons who make a donation to the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum will receive a certificate for a FREE cupcake from The Cupcakery. Each donor will receive one certificate.

Silverton -- It's Millions:

We've had lots of contact about our neglecting to put "millions" behind the "$500" in the notice about Silverton's planned upgrade. No, it's not a $500 upgrade; it's a $500 million upgrade. Sorry for that somewhat important omission.

Horse Racing Interview:

Today's Wall Street Journal contains an interview with Bob Evans, CEO of Churchill Downs. Evans provides interesting perspective on horse racing's challenges, along with some interesting ideas for increasing its share of the gambling market.

Tax Day Specials at Gold Coast:

The Gold Coast is offering the following Tax Day food specials today, all for $10.40: 10oz. prime rib or a dozen oysters in the Cortez Room; combo pizza at T-Mike's Snack Bar; dinner buffet at the Ports O' Call Buffet; or fried shrimp or a 10oz. ribeye steak in the Monterey room.

Nathan Burton Benefit Shows:

Magician Nathan Burton will be donating 100% of the proceeds of his show from today through April 22 to the Children's Miracle Network. A special locals-only ticket price of $15 for adults and $12 for kids applies throughout the promotional period and tickets can only be purchased at the "V" Theater box office at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood (formerly Desert Passage at the Aladdin).

Z'Tejas Blood Drive Promo:

Every Sunday throughout the month of April, donors can receive a $10 Z'Tejas gift card when they give blood at United Blood Services' main locations on Rainbow and Charleston. To set up an appointment call 702/233-9620.

Dita Von Teese in Crazy Horse:

International Queen of Burlesque Dita Von Teese begins her limited-run engagement in MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris tonight. The first series of exclusive performances runs through April 19, followed by two additional nights on April 22 and 23. Tickets, which are $59 plus tax, can be purchased from MGM Grand ticketing outlets, online at www.mgmgrand.com, or by phone at 702/891-7777.

Big Expansion for Silverton:

Silverton has announced a $500 million expansion, the focal point of which will be a new hotel tower. New restaurants, bars, and casino space will also be added. The resort has been upgrading for years and continues to improve its status under the stewardship of watchful owner Ed Roski.

SummitRacing.com Nationals:

The NHRA SummitRacing.com Nationals will take place at The Strip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Thursday-Sunday, with short-track stock car racing at the Bullring Saturday. For more information, call 702/644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com

Georg Riedel Signing:

Today from 4-6 p.m., 55 degrees Wine + Design, inside Mandalay Place, will be holding a special autograph signing session with Georg Riedel.

Vegas This Weekend:

Music: Steve Tyrell's at the Golden Nugget (04/12/07-04/14/07); The Temptations will be at the Orleans (04/12/07-04/15/07); Brian Culbertson will be at Santa Fe Station (04/13/07), as will Heartland and Chris Young (04/14/07); Frankie Avalon and comedian Babe Pier will be at the Suncoast (04/13/07-04/15/07); George Thorogood and The Destroyers play Mandalay Bay's House of Blues (04/13/07); LeAnn Rimes will be performing at the Luxor (04/13/07); Morris Day and The Time will be at Boulder Station (04/13/07-04/14/07); Quiet Riot's performing at the Silverton (04/13/07) as are the Gin Blossoms (04/14/07); The Lon Bronson Band (04/13/07) and The Fabulous Thunderbirds (04/14/07) will be at the Cannery; the legendary Tony Bennett's performing at the Las Vegas Hilton (04/13/07-04/14/07); Reba McEntire will be at Buffalo Bill's (04/14/07); Battle of the Media, featuring the A-Team (04/13/07) and the Wingers (04/14/07) will be at Polly Esther's at the Stratosphere; at the University Theatre it's Jedi Mind Trick and Sean Price (04/13/07), La Banda Skalavera, Debonaires, Over The Line, and Huxtable (04/14/07); and Steps of Faith, Amber Pacific, Just Surrender, Monty Are I, Powerspace, and The Sophomore Year (04/15/07) Comedy/Magic: Roseanne Barr continues her headlining run at New York-New York (03/15/07-04/30/07); Jay Leno's at the Mirage (04/13/07-04/14/07); Wayne Brady’s at the Venetian (04/05/07-04/29/07); Jim Gaffigan's at Mandalay Bay (04/13/07); Opie & Anthony's Traveling Virus will be at the Hard Rock (04/14/07); the Palms hosts Sebastian Maniscalco and Jordy Fox (04/14/07); and David Copperfield's at MGM (03/22/07-04/19/07) Other: The 34th Annual Las Vegas Spring 2007 Car Auction takes place at the South Point (04/13/07); also at the South Point will be the "Brawl in the Barn" presented by Tuff N Uff (04/14/07); UNLVino will be taking place all weekend at various venues including the Hard Rock, The District, and Paris (04/12/07-04/14/07); the 5th Annual Five Star World Poker Tournament is taking place at Bellagio (04/07/07-04/20/07); the 17th Annual Las Vegas AIDS Walk will be at the World Market Center (04/15/07); and the 2nd Annual Fashion Fling will be held downtown at the Beauty Bar (04/13/07) For more details about these and other events, plus full listings of all the permanent shows Las Vegas plays home to, click here to use our "Shows & Events" finder, under "Vegas Info."

Last Chance for Palms Parlay:

Today's mini tournament at the Palms is the last one before the casino's open UBT event next week. First prize in the mini is the $2,700 seat, so you can parlay a mini win today into a possible trip to play on CBS. The mini begins at 2 pm, with a second round at 3:30 pm. Entry is $120 and the re-buy is $50. There will be additional qualifying opportunities associated with the big tournament that we'll write about next week.

NHRA Signing at Silverton:

National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Top Fuel winner Rod Fuller and 20-time NHRA winner and longtime Matco Tools driver Whit Bazemore will hold a pre-race autograph session at the Silverton Casino Lodge on Thursday, April 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Both Fuller and Bazemore will be participating in the 8th Annual Summit Racing.com Nationals, April 12-15, at LVMS. Both drivers will sign autographs and the Silverton will give away tickets to the April 13 Quiet Riot Concert and the April 14 Gin Blossoms show during the autograph session. The event is free and open to the public.

UNLVino Time:

The 33rd annual UNLVino wine tasting festival kicks off tomorrow with a Champagne and sparkling wine tasting at the Hard Rock ($75). Friday's event is at the District at Green Valley Ranch, with wines from Australia and the New World ($50), then Paris hosts the Grand Tasting ($75 in advance, $100 at the door) and other events on Saturday. Check out our "Show and Events" listings under "Vegas Info" for more details on each event.

Hasselhoff to Leave Producers:

The ex-"Baywatch" star's publicist has confirmed that he'll be leaving The Producers, currently performing at Paris, on May 6. The reason for his departure is a scheduling conflict: Apparently, Hasselhof's taping commitments for NBC'S "America's Got Talent" are too heavy for him to juggle his role in the show. His replacement has not yet been announced.

New Hard Rock Pool Concerts:

One of Vegas' hottest pools is upping the ante with a brand new series of poolside concerts. The Friday Night Live series kicks off at the Hard rock on April 27th at 8 p.m. with Aussie rockers JET. Other artists already lined up for gigs throughout the summer include LL Cool J, Dread Zeppelin, Eek-A-Mouse, and Ky-Mani Marley. Tickets go on sale this Saturday and are available from the Hard Rock Box Office or from Ticketmaster.

Latest on Prince:

In a revised announcement about Prince's final Late Nite Jam Sessions, it's today been clarified that these after-hours concerts will be located in 3121, rather than in 3121 Jazz Cuisine, as formerly. And the cover has been upped to $70 per person.

Late Nite Jamming With Prince:

3121 Jazz Cuisine, the restaurant opened for Prince at the Rio and run by his personal chef, is now officially closed for regular business. However, you can still catch Prince in his Late Nite Jam Session every Friday and Saturday night through the month of April. These sessions, which take place in a back room at the restaurant, are extremely exclusive and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. We believe the cover is $50 per person. Call 702/777-7776 for more information.

Still Traffic Snarls Downtown:

Although the Grand Prix's over, it's going to be a few days before all the barricades are removed, so expect continued traffic delays in the downtown area.

Aussies Buy Canadian Casinos:

James Packer, son and heir of the late Australian media tycoon Kerry Packer and owner of the biggest Australian casino, has agreed to buy gambling sites in Canada for 1.37 billion Canadian dollars in its first foray into North America. Packer is already developing three casinos in Macau.

Ansel Adams Lecture Today:

From 3 p.m.-4 p.m. today Dr Michael Adams, son of famed photographer Ansel, whose work is currently showing at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Arts, will be giving an exclusive illustrated lecture about his father's work in the Renoir One Ballroom. The lecture will be followed by a reception and autograph signing in the Gallery. Admission is $20 for the general public and $15 for Bellagio Gallery members.

$250K Stratosphere Promo:

The Stratosphere has just launched the "$250,000 Point Challenge" promotion for Ultimate Rewards Card Club members. It's a slot promo with three different promotional periods with 62 finalists from daily drawings and accumulated play being entered into a final drawing on July 28 for cash prizes and a 2007 Lexus. Visit the Ultimate Rewards Center for more details.

Harrah's Shareholders Vote Yes:

Harrah's Entertainment has announced that yesterday its shareholders, who controlled 66% of outstanding stock, approved the $17.1 billion buyout by two private equity groups. The company's board had already unanimously recommended approval, so it looks like the largest ever deal to take a publicly held casino company private will go ahead.

Circus Circus Sushi:

A new sushi joint has opened at Circus Circus, on the promenade level across from the Adventuredome. Sushi, Etc. offers a variety of sushi, nigiri, seafood cocktails, salads, and desserts with prices starting at $1 per piece. Hours are 6 p.m.-midnight nightly.

Meet & Greet with Artist Olivia:

From noon-8 p.m. today, world-renowned artist Olivia De Berardinis, whose work appears regularly in Playboy magazine, will be hosting a meet and greet and signing at the new Bettie Page lingerie store inside the newly renamed Miracle Mile shops at Planet Hollywood (formerly The Shops at Desert Passage). The event is in part to mark the opening of the store and also to celebrate the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend.

Le Rêve Theater Reopens:

A month after it closed for renovations, Wynn Las Vegas' Le Rêve Theater reopens today. Not only has the showroom been completely refurnished and reupholstered, but almost 500 seats have also been removed for a more intimate viewing experience.

Las Vegas This Weekend:

There’s the usual mix of music, magic, and mayhem, plus an Easter "Eggstravaganza" (uh!) out at Lake Las Vegas. But the big event this weekend is, of course, the Grand Prix, which will pretty much be taking over the downtown area. We’ve listed the highlights, plus there’s a link to the official site for a full schedule of events. Ear plugs can be purchased from your nearest pharmacy. Music: Rocky Mountain High, a tribute to John Denver, will be at the Silverton (04/06/07-04/07/07); the Disco Kings will be at the Stratosphere (04/06/07) and so will the Bay City Rollers (04/070/07); Rain, a tribute to the Beatles, will be performing at Suncoast (04/06/07-04/08/07); The Yardbirds will be at the Cannery (04/06/07), as will T.G. Sheppard and Exile (04/07/07); The Skooners CD Release Show takes place at the University Theater (04/07/07); Blues Traveler will perform at the Hard Rock (04/07/07); Josh Groban’s at MGM (04/07/07); and the Virgin College Mega Tour featuring Talib Kweli, Sugarcult, and William Tell will be at Mandalay Bay’s House of Blues (04/07/07) Comedy/Magic: Roseanne Barr's still headlining at New York-New York (03/15/07-04/30/07); Wayne Brady’s at the Venetian (04/05/07-04/29/07); Brad Garrett will be at the Mirage (04/06/07-04/07/07); Dennis Miller's at the Orleans (04/06/07-04/08/07); and David Copperfield's at MGM (03/22/07-04/19/07) Vegas Grad Prix: The Vegas Grad Prix downtown circuit will be a 2.44-mile, 12-turn temporary street circuit. The circuit will encompass a route that circumnavigates the World Market Center, Fremont Street, and the downtown casinos. This is a three-day event starting on the 6th with the Champ Car registration at 7 a.m. and the practice race at 8:50 a.m., with the qualifying beginning at 2 p.m. Side attractions include the poker tournament inside Binion's, which will start at noon, and the Fremont Street Party that kicks off at 6 p.m. with free music performances on the 3rd Street stage by the Teddybears, Army of Anyone, Chris Cornell, and Big & Rich and Cowboy Troy. On the 7th, there will be a Celebrity Poker Tournament at 7 p.m. inside Benny's Bullpen at Binion's and Loveshack and the LA Allstars will be on the 3rd Street stage. The Champ Car practice will be at 9:40 a.m. with Atlantic qualifying at 12:30 p.m. and Champ Car qualifying at 2 p.m. Loveshack and the LA Allstars will be back for the 8th with the start of the Vegas Grand Prix at 1 p.m. Easter Catholic Mass will be held from 6 a.m.-7 a.m. at the Golden Nugget and non-denominational mass on the roof at Binion's. The Historic Grand Prix race will be from 10:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m., Champ Car World Series race from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. (televised live on NBC), the Champ Car Atlantic Series race from 4 p.m.-5 p.m., and from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. the Neonopolis will be featuring the Checker Auto Parts Latin Village. For the Fremont Street schedule visit: http://vegasexperience.com/VGP.cfm For information on the race, traffic, shuttles, ticketing and more, go to: http://www.vegasgrandprix.com/schedule/ For more details about these and other events, plus full listings of all the permanent shows Las Vegas plays home to, click here to use our "Shows & Events" finder, under "Vegas Info."

Million Dollar Swipe:

Swipe your Owl Rewards Club card everyday at Hooters Casino Hotel and you could win a million dollars. Plus, every swipe is a winner. Win cash, Owl Rewards Club points and Hooters logo gear.

Rehab Casting Call Today:

Today from 2-5 p.m., the Hard Rock will be holding a casting call for cocktail waitresses for their legendary Sunday Rehab pool parties, which begin April 29. For additional info, visit the Web site at www.rehablv.com.

Classic Sign:

Check out today's LV Review-Journal for a classic photograph in Norm Clarke's column. The photo catches Planet Hollywood's new sign in an unfinished state: Planet Ho. Of course, the LVA forums were all over it before we even saw the R-J -- check out another great picture right here: forums.lasvegasadvisor.com

CML Table-Game Promotion:

Casino Monte Lago is running strong promotion that we've just gotten wind of. The "Early Bird Blackjack Bonus" pays 2-1 on naturals, Mon.-Thurs. from 10 am to 2 pm; max bet $50. This is supposed to run till April 26, but it's doubtful. This one rule is worth about 2.25% in return. We've heard that the limits have already been dropped and the number of tables offering it is down to only one. We hear further that it's almost impossible to get a seat.

GVR Table-Game Promotion:

Now through April 30, Green Valley Ranch is running a $10,000 table-game promotion. Earn one entry for every $10 wagered or for every hour of active poker play and be entered in drawings on Sunday, April 15 and Monday, April 30 at 6:15 p.m. If you're present when you win, you also receive a $100 free bet coupon, in addition to a share of the $10,000 prize pool.

Rampart Birthday Party:

From 2 p.m.-4 p.m. today the Rampart Casino will be celebrating its fifth anniversary, with free cake and champagne and T-shirts for players. They're also offering 2X points all day.

MGM Expands Into China:

MGM Mirage has announced today that it's signed a definitive agreement with the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, People's Republic of China, aimed at creating a strategic relationship to pursue non-gaming business opportunities globally. The joint venture will commence with plans develop luxury hotels and resorts in China.

"Real World" Returns to Palms:

According to the Vegas Eye, it's been confirmed that the original cast of MTV's "The Real World: Las Vegas" will be returning to the property later this year to film a 6-part sequel series to commemorate the show's fifth anniversary.

Silverton Meal Deal:

Through Thursday, April 5, just mention their Las Vegas Review-Journal ad at the Silverton's Players Club booth and get a buy one, get one free dining coupon for Seasons Buffet or Mi Casa Grill Cantina. The offer applies to new sign-ups as well as existing members and the Players Club is open until midnight daily.

PT's Gives Away Fight Tickets:

Now through Sunday, April 22, Golden Tavern Group, owners of the PT's brand, is offering patrons the opportunity to win one of two pairs of tickets to the De La Hoya-Mayweather fight taking place at the MGM Grand on Saturday, May 5. To participate, visit any PT's tavern and purchase a Dos Equis or Tecate beer or be the top Golden Rewards point earner for all PT's locations. Each pair of tickets is valued at $3,000 and the winner will be announced on Monday, April 23.

Desert Passage Rebranded:

The Shops at Desert Passage has been renamed the Miracle Mile Shops, named in part to reflect the 1.2 miles of retail space the mall covers. The change is also intended to signal the center's transformation to a "sleeker, more urbanized and contemporary space," with new already opened retail outlets including Urban Outfitters, Ben Sherman, Bettie Page, and Quicksilver, with others like H&M and Marciano on the way.

Salt Lick at Santa Fe:

Las Vegas' lastest version of Austin's famous BBQ joint holds its grand opening today at Santa Fe Station, with all-you-can-eat for $16.99. This will be the restaurant's second venue in town, following in the footsteps of Red Rock Resort's, which was reviewed in last November's LVA.

Riv Remains in Play:

The investment group that was twice spurned in its attempts to acquire the Riviera says that it will continue to pursue the resort. The investment group charges that the Riviera's board of directors is not giving the offer proper consideration and that the stockholders should be allowed to vote on its acceptance.