CASA Foundation Gala Tickets Now On Sale! Its For Charity!

The CASA Foundation’s Annual Recognition Gala has been a core event for 25 years, honoring extraordinary child advocates in the Las Vegas community. This year’s event, entitled “A Toast to the Future,” will take place from 5:30-10 p.m. on Saturday, October 10 at The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino, and will include a not-to-be-missed special announcement.  This year’s milestone gala will celebrate the contributions of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) volunteers that advocate on behalf of children in the Clark County foster care system, as well as honoring other child advocates within the community.

“We are thrilled to celebrate this momentous occasion, which would not have been possible without our generous supporters and volunteers,” said Nancy Myster, CASA Foundation of Las Vegas President. “Over the years, our program has evolved and we are now able to help foster children in more ways than ever. We look forward to making an exciting announcement at this year’s gala.”

The recognition gala will begin with a silent auction and cocktail party followed by a gourmet dinner program awarding the Child Advocate of the Year to Ramona Denby-Brinson Ph.D  and the President’s Award to Bart Masi from Wirtz Beverage Group. The dinner program will also highlight an important announcement about the organization’s growth that will be kicked off with a special toast. The evening will conclude with dancing and live entertainment.  

Individual tickets to the event are $200 or a table of 10 can be purchased for $1,800 and are available a www.casafoundationlv.org/ .

Gotta Love Nacho Daddy! New Items Added To Their Menu

 Las Vegas’ hottest spot for Mexican-American cuisine, Nacho Daddy, revamps their menu to include soon-to-be seasonal favorites, as well as adding a variety of special events to their roster of daily good times. More than just nachos, Nacho Daddy offers a creative spin on Tex-Mex food and drinks combined with all-ages fun.

New items have made their way to Nacho Daddy’s menu including:

Barbacoa Pork Tenderloin – Grilled pork tenderloin topped with house-made BBQ sauce, garnished with peanuts and served with seasoned sweet potato fries and agave citrus slaw.

Barramundi – Pan-seared and chipotle-glazed Barramundi filet with mango salsa served on a bed of quinoa.

Borracho Chili – Ground beef slow-simmered in beer with black beans, sweet bell peppers, fresh corn and tomatoes, spiced with hot ghost peppers.

“Drunkard” Nacho – House-made tortilla chips topped with borracho chili, shredded cheese, green onions, cilantro and queso fresco.

Caesar Salad – Chopped romaine hearts, tossed with caesar dressing, house-made croutons and parmesan cheese.

Nacho Daddy also offers a variety of fun events every week to keep guests of all ages entertained and full of food and fun. Daily events include:

“Kids Eat Free Mondays” – one kid entrée with the purchase of one adult entrée (All locations)

“Taco & Tequila Tuesdays” – two for one tequila shots or tequila drinks and $3, $5 and $7 tacos (All locations)

Wednesday Trivia – trivia nights at 7 p.m. (Henderson and Summerlin locations)

It’s Football Time – Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays – all the pigskin action on Nacho Daddy’s big-screen, hi-definition TVs with $5 Jim Beam and Absolut cocktails and $2 PBR (All locations)

It’s The Happiest Happy Hour – From 3 – 6 p.m. Sunday – Friday featuring $5 house wine and margaritas, $4.50 Mexican draft beers, $4 quesadillas, $5 and $6 street tacos, $5 chipotle sliders, $5 queso dip with house-made chips and $6 ceviche (All locations)

An American grill with a Mexican flair, Nacho Daddy first made its mark in Las Vegas in 2010 with their creative menu. Serving up more than just a variety of gourmet nachos, the popular restaurant group offers healthy salads, sizzling fajitas, street tacos, bountiful bowls and delicious desserts. Featuring fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch sauces, Nacho Daddy has something for everyone, including a substantial vegetarian and vegan menu, gluten-free options, all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nacho Daddy also offers a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages including Daddy’s Double Chocolate, the popular Daddy’s Margarita and the world-famous Scorpion Shot, complete with an actual scorpion. All locations have a variety of daily events including big game action, “Kids Eat Free Mondays,” Tacos & Tequila Tuesdays and Happy Hours.

Whether in Henderson, Summerlin or Downtown Las Vegas, Nacho Daddy has three convenient locations to serve locals and tourists alike; 9925 S. Eastern Ave. in Henderson, 9560 W. Sahara and 113 N. 4th St. in Downtown. For additional information, including hours of operations, reservations and online menus, visit www.nachodaddy.com. Connect with Nacho Daddy on social media by liking on Facebook or by following @NachoDaddyLV on Twitter and @NachoDaddyRestaurant on Instagram.

Chippendales® Tapped This!! Oktoberfest Is Now Going On!

The hunks of Chippendales® attended Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas Saturday night and brought some heat to the newest keg of Oktoberfestbier. The cast enjoyed Hofbräu beer and dined on traditional German favorites.

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas Oktoberfest offered guests endless Bavarian fun, food and, of course, Oktoberfestbier imported from Munich, Germany. The fun continued with stein-holding competitions, spankings, dancing on the benches, the taste of fresh-roasted almonds and pecans and traditional live Bavarian music. Guests can partake in the six-week celebration through October 31.

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas is the first German/Bavarian beer hall and restaurant in Las Vegas. This faithful reproduction of the world’s most famous beer hall, the original, centuries-old Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany, is an authentic and entertaining blend of tradition and fun.  From its hand-painted ceilings and live bands to its imported beer and delicious food, Bavarian hospitality abounds – At Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas, it is Oktoberfest every day!

Visit OktoberfestVegas.com for a full schedule of upcoming events.

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas
4510 Paradise Road,
Las Vegas, NV 89169

Online Contest To Win Carlos Santana Tickets! AWESOME Grand Prize Package

House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino together with Carlos Santana launch an online contest celebrating the 100,000th ticket sold to the guitar legend’s show – An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live. A commemorative plaque and guitar will also be unveiled at a ceremony in November to celebrate the milestone

Beginning September 17, 2015 through October 23, 2015 at 11:59 p.m., fans can log on to www.houseofblues.com/Santana and register to win a grand prize package in celebration of the momentous occasion.* Contestants must be 18 years of age or older.

Grand Prize Package:

Autographed PRS Santana SE Custom Electric Guitar Signed by Carlos Santana
Two tickets to see An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live on November 7, 2015
Meet ‘n greet and photo opportunity with Carlos Santana on November 7, 2015
One night stay at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
Dinner for 2 in the Foundation Room (up to $200 value)

*Please see website for official rules and prize details.

House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay has been home to Santana’s live concert since 2012 and continues in 2015 with the remaining dates: September 18-20, 23 and 25-27, November 4, 6-8, 11 and 13-15. Tickets for An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live start at $99.50, plus applicable fees. Tickets are available by visiting House of Blues.com/Santana, MandalayBay.com, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. For additional information, visit santana.com.

A portion of all tickets sold will be donated to The Milagro Foundation. Milagro (“Miracle”) is a charitable foundation supporting underrepresented and vulnerable children and youth in the areas of arts, education and health. The Milagro Foundation was created in 1998 by Carlos Santana and his family to benefit children worldwide.

Another contribution will be made to The International House of Blues Foundation (www.ihobf.org) which is dedicated to supporting youth music and arts programs, creating performance and exhibition opportunities for young and emerging artists and providing educational programs and resources that draw upon the arts to teach youth about history, culture and social change.
 
For more information and reservations, visit mandalaybay.com or call toll free at (877) 632-7800 or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

NEW!! Jamba Juice Now Has Almond Milk Smoothies! Be Healthy!

"Jamba Juice has introduced its new Almond Milk Smoothies. Offering non-dairy, indulgent, and yet better-for-you seasonal beverage options, Jamba's new limited time Almond Milk Smoothies blend in real whole fruit, have a lighter viscosity, are nutrient rich, and contain no artificial flavors.

We're excited to offer our innovative line of Almond Milk Smoothies that not only provide a healthier seasonal drink alternative, but can also be enjoyed by our customers who are vegan and dairy-free," said Phil Patent, president of Juice Partners, the entity that operates 12 Jamba Juice locations in Southern Nevada. "Jamba Juice's Almond Milk Smoothies offer a delicious and nutritious way for consumers to maintain healthy habits all year long, while still delighting in the indulgent flavors of the season."

Jamba Juice's Almond Milk Smoothies are available in three creamy flavors, each offering an excellent source of calcium and at least one serving of fruit:

·         Peanut Butter & Berries: A non-dairy smoothie that captures everyone's favorite combo -- peanut butter and jelly -- blending almond milk, peanut butter, blueberries, strawberries, and dates for a deliciously nostalgic PB&J option.

·         Pumpkin: A non-dairy smoothie bursting with fall's favorite flavor, pumpkin, mixed with almond milk, bananas, and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.

·         Matcha Green Tea: A non-dairy smoothie that blends the goodness of Matcha green tea with almond milk, bananas, kale, and dates for an antioxidant-rich pick-me-up of vitamins A & C.

"The demand for almond milk is soaring, as it's not only delicious tasting, but also plant-based, completely vegan, and cholesterol and lactose-free," said Liz Ward, RD and Jamba Juice Healthy Living Council member. "Almond milk is also fortified with calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin E – a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells against everyday damage. As such, Jamba Juice's Almond Milk Smoothies are a great alternative to the high-calorie seasonal treats that often tempt us during this time of year."

From Sept. 24 – 29, 2015, Jamba Juice guests can enjoy these new Almond Milk Smoothies, at participating locations* (listed below) for $3 with a coupon found at JambaJuice.com. For more information, including complete nutrition facts, please visit www.JambaJuice.com.

*Participating Jamba Juice Locations:

-6925 S. Rainbow Blvd., Arroyo Market Square

-2675 S. Eastern Avenue

-5905 S. Eastern Avenue, McCarran Market

-1121 S. Decatur Blvd., Westland Fair

-9091 W. Sahara Avenue, The Lakes

-1829 W. Craig Road, North Mesa Plaza

-2546 E. Craig Road, Cannery Corner

-1500 N. Green Valley Parkway

-10251 S. Eastern Avenue, Siena Promenade

-365 Hughes Center Drive, Howard Hughes Business Center

FC Juice Partners is a Lev Restaurant Group operating company which is the Las Vegas-based exclusive area developer for Jamba Juice in Las Vegas and certain territories in Southern California. Founded in 2010, FC Juice Partners has expanded Jamba Juice® Las Vegas throughout Las Vegas in neighborhood locations, including the first Jamba Juice® location with a drive-thru, as well as malls and casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, making Jamba Juice accessible to the millions of visitors who come to Las Vegas. Voted readers’ choice for best smoothies in Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Best of Las Vegas 2015, fans of Jamba Juice can find out more about specific offerings and promotions at www.jambalv.com.

Take Part Of LVMS's “Presidential Premonition Promotion" & Get 50% Off If Correct!

Every election season, political prognosticators pour over a plethora of polls to pick the president.

Now it’s the fans’ turn. And they’ve got until Nov. 8 this year to take advantage of their perfect predictions.

Fans who participate in Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s “Presidential Premonition Promotion” stand to save 50 percent off the price of 2017 NASCAR Weekend tickets at LVMS.

“Without question, this presidential race is wide open,” said LVMS president Chris Powell. “We thought we’d have a little fun with it – and make it rewarding for fans, too.”

Here’s how it works: Any race fan who purchases 2016 NASCAR Weekend tickets by Nov. 8 simply lets the speedway know which candidate he or she believes will win the United States presidency in November, 2016. Any fan who correctly picks the winner will be eligible to purchase 2017 Weekend Packages at 50 percent of the 2017 list price. There is a limit of four tickets per winning account.

This promotion applies to anyone who (a) already has purchased 2016 NASCAR Weekend Packages, or (b) anyone who purchases Weekend Packages between now and Nov. 8, 2015 – one year prior to the presidential election. In all cases, fans need simply to have purchased their tickets and to email LVMS with their prediction of the name of the next president.  The special email address for the promotion is presidentialpromotion@lvms.com. Fans must include their LVMS ticket-account number when sending the email and can enter only once. Good luck! And remember, the deadline is Nov. 8, less than a couple of months away.

When all the predictions are in, LVMS will announce the results of the fans’ predictions.

The official rules of the promotion are below.
Contest is open to anyone who has purchased 2016 NASCAR Weekend tickets or anyone who purchases NASCAR Weekend tickets by Nov. 8, 2015.
Entrants must email their pick for the United States presidency by Nov. 8 to presidentialpromotion@lvms.com.
Fans must enter their account number in the email.
Only one entrant per account holder.
Entrants are allowed four tickets per winning account.
All winning entrants must have renewed their 2017 tickets by June 1, 2016.
Winning entrants will receive a 50-percent refund for their 2017 tickets once the new president is determined.

The 2016 NASCAR Weekend is scheduled for March 4-6. The marquee event will be the 19th annual Kobalt 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, March 6. The Boyd Gaming 300 NASCAR Xfinity Series race will be Saturday, March 5 and Stratosphere Pole Day is set for Friday, March 4. Get your tickets by calling 1-800-644-4444 or clicking here -oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/lvms/EN/buy/details/L16MWKD?_ga=1.250242241.698751530.1416951666
           

The Plaza Introduces New 777 Slot Tournament

The Plaza Hotel & Casino in downtown Las Vegas introduces the 777 Slot Tournament for its Royal Rewards players club members and expanded its extensive casino floor with the addition of 30 vintage coin machines.

The 777 Slot Tournament occurs every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The tournament awards $750 in free slot play among the top five scores of each day. Players can participate in all four sessions by redeeming 2,500 points or $10 per session. Additional details can be found online or at the Royal Rewards center at the Plaza.

Players will also find the Plaza has expanded its slot offerings with the addition of 30 vintage coin machines that were relocated from the now closed Las Vegas Club. The added coin games include favorites like full pay Joker Poker, Deuces Wild and Catch the Heat.

The additional slot offerings and new tournament are part of the Plaza’s continued commitment to making casino improvements focused on bringing back the best odds downtown and making the Plaza “the place to be downtown.”

The Plaza’s players club, Royal Rewards, is distinctly different from any other downtown casino loyalty program. Royal Rewards offers new members instant tier matching from any other Las Vegas players club. New members can also receive “$500 On Us”, a rebate program on slots loss. Royal Rewards also rewards all players with the industry’s fastest tier advancement and more free slot play than ever before. For details: www.plazahotelcasino.com/casino/royal-rewards/

All The News From The Venetian/The Palazzo! PLUS FESTIVINO Is Coming Up

Celebrate Fall Harvest During FESTIVINO At The Venetian On Oct. 9

Time to uncork and pour. The Venetian Las Vegas is getting in the spirit of fall harvest with Festivino, the fifth annual food and wine festival, Friday, Oct. 9, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Festivino guests will learn about the celebrated wines from master sommeliers and enjoy culinary specialties under the stars from illustrious Master Chefs of France including Steve Benjamin, Jacques Chretien, Olivier Desaintmartin, Jean - Louis Dumonet, Jerome Ferrer, Claude Le-Tohic, Patrick Ponsaty, Nico Romo, David Werly, and Olivier Dubreuil, executive chef of The Venetian and The Palazzo.

This year, Jonathan Cain, former keyboardist and songwriter from Journey, will perform at Festivino. Also a wine enthusiast, Cain has created Finale Wines in partnership with Dennis De La Montanya and his De La Montanya Winery & Vineyards, which will be available for guests to experience during Festivino.

To take advantage of the fall weather, the popular epicurean event has been moved outdoors to the picturesque Doge’s Palace grand entrance of The Venetian.

Tickets are $95 plus tax and fees. To purchase online, visit www.venetian.com or at any Venetian or Palazzo box office. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend Festivino.

ZINE NOODLES DIM SUM TO CLOSE FOR MAJOR REMODELING

Zine Noodles Dim Sum will be closed in October, as part of a major remodeling and re-concepting of the popular Palazzo restaurant. The last day of service was September 18. Watch for more details about the new concept and opening date, to be announced soon.

DOLLAR OYSTER HAPPY HOUR AT db BRASSERIE
French restaurant db Brasserie by Chef Daniel Boulud is offering Dollar Oysters Happy Hour from 5 – 6 p.m. daily. Guests can snack on dollar oysters (with a limit of two dozen per person) in the bar and lounge while enjoying other happy hour food and drink specials. Full happy hour is offered from 3 – 6 p.m. and 10-11 p.m. daily.

dB Brasserie, named Best New Fine Dining by Vegas Seven magazine features Chef Boulud’s signature French American menu with updated brasserie classics and three of Boulud’s signature burgers featured at his New York restaurants.

LAVO AND THE PALAZZO BRING A NEW DOSE OF GLAMOUR WITH NEW ‘CASINO CLUB’
The new LAVO Casino Club is a modern gaming experience fusing casino table games with Vegas-style VIP bottle service, mixology, and Italian cuisine.

The LAVO Casino Club has created a new type of nightlife and gaming experience where guests can enjoy a DJ and dancing, along with amenities not offered in typical nightclubs or on the casino floor, like:

Classic premium cocktails from LAVO’s inventive mixology menu, served direct to the gaming table from a butler’s cart. An opportunity to order from LAVO’s award-winning Italian menu
Featured sporting events, including college and NFL football games on the flat-screen TVs

Groups that want to sit together can reserve a gaming table to play. This feature is great for bachelor parties and other social groups that want share their Las Vegas experience in one place.

LAVO Casino Club is open Fridays and Saturday evenings beginning at 8 p.m., and during football season on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 9 a.m. For more information, visit www.lavolv.com.

FOOTBALL SEASON KICKS OFF AT LAGASSE’S STADIUM
For a third season, Lagasse’s Stadium Chef de Cuisine Scott Pajak has created special football menus that pay tribute to the team’s playing each week on Monday and Thursday night televised games.

October 5: Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks
Coney Island hot dog and seasoned French fries ($9)
Organic baby arugula with toasted garlic crostini’s ($15)

October 19: New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
Chicken parmesan and toasted garlic bread ($20)
Philly cheese steak and seasoned French fries ($17)

October 26: Baltimore Ravens at Arizona Cardinals
Crab Cakes with an apple and herb salad ($16)
Deep fried chile relleno, black beans and Spanish rice ($17)

CARLO’S BAKERY ADDS DOUGHNUTS TO THEIR MENU

Famous for their cannoli, Carlo’s Bakery has added doughnuts to their menu. Featured flavors:

Glazed Doughnut – A classic with white icing
Frosted Doughnut – With strawberry or chocolate icing
Chocolate Doughnut – Chocolate cake donut with vanilla or chocolate frosting
Jelly Doughnut – A filled treat with raspberry jam
Carlo’s Signature Doughnut – Filled with Carlo’s Bakery French Cream and dusted with confectioner’s sugar
Boston Cream – Filled with Bavarian Cream and topped with chocolate flat icing
Cookies and Cream – Filled with Oreo Swiss Cream with white icing and Oreo pieces
Cannoli Doughnut – A Carlo’s Bakery Original, filled with cannoli cream, topped with cinnamon glaze and cannoli shell pieces

For more information call 702.607.2356.

CANYON RANCH SPA INTRODUCES NEW BRUNCH AND TEAM

Canyon Ranch SpaClub is proud to introduce two big additions to the wellness team. The world-famous spa is now headed by industry veteran Deirdre Strunk as the new Executive Spa Director.

Deirdre has an extensive background as a hotel spa and salon director and is an aesthetician and a Licensed Massage Therapist.

In 2014 she was recognized as Woman of the Year by Leukemia Lymphoma Society, and as a Humanitarian of the Year by the Las Vegas Spa Association.

Also joining Canyon Ranch SpaClub is Executive Chef Pete Ghione.

Ghione learned his way around the kitchen at the New England Culinary Institute in Burlington VT.

His impressive resume includes Charlie Palmer’s Aerole restaurant, plus opening several fine dining establishments, creating multiple menus and teaching staff.

Pete’s menu style is all about healthy clean living, organic food and preparing cuisine that is fresh and flavorful.

In addition to adding new items to the Canyon Ranch Grill menu, Chef Pete Ghione just launched a new healthy Sunday Brunch menu. (See menu on final page of this news release packet).

For more info call 702.414.3600.

LOBSTER ME ADDS TWO NEW LOBSTER MELTS

Lobster ME has added two new lobster melts to their menu, both $10 –

The Frenchy – Butter-poached lobster with melted brie and shallot- cream cheese.
The Prince of Wales – Classic preparation of melted cheddar and whole grain mustard with thinly-sliced cucumbers and butter-poached lobster.

Lobster ME is located inside the Grand Canal Shoppes near the food court. For more information call 702.912.0777.

OTTO ENOTECA PIZZERIA FEATURES NEW AFTERNOON ANTIPASTI SPECIAL

Mario Batali’s Otto Enoteca Pizzeria is now serving up a new Afternoon Antipasti Special from 3 -5 p.m. daily. For only $5, guests can enjoy antipasti boards as well as 2 for 1 Peroni on draft available at the bar and antipasti bar every day.

Otto Enoteca Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant by one of the most recognized and respected chefs, Mario Batali and acclaimed winemaker Joe Bastianich. Famous for their pizza and pasta, the menu also features an exclusively Italian wine list with 100 bottles under $100.

For more information call 702.677.3390.

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT ALUM AT ROCKHOUSE

Rockhouse is featuring Seth Grabel performing table side magic, Friday and Saturday nights 7-9 p.m. Grabel is known from his performances on the hit NBC show “America’s Got Talent.”

Rockhouse also offers drinking games in the daytime and DJs at night, plus 83 TV screens lining every wall of the interior making it an ideal place to watch sports.

Rockhouse is located in the upper level of the Grand Canal Shoppes near Carlo’s Bakery. Open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. and Friday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 a.m.

B&B BURGER OPEN FOR BREAKFAST DURING FOOTBALL SEASON

B&B Burger and Beer is now open at 9 a.m. on Sundays throughout football season. During this time, the restaurant will be offering breakfast specials until noon, in addition to the regular menu. Breakfast specials include:

Pastrami Hash with Mushroom Hollandaise and Poached Eggs, $14
Bacon, Egg and Cheese Sandwich with Jalapeno Pesto, $13
Orange-Brioche French Toast with House Made Sausages and Strawberry Jam, $13

B&B Burger and Beer will be featuring “buy 4 get 1 free” buckets of beer. See menu for featured beers that are part of this promotion.

In addition, Chef Jason White has been promoted from Sous Chef to Chef ‘d Cuisine. Jason has more than ten years’ experience in fine dining, and helped to open Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s new burger restaurant.

Dorian Gray

DELMONICO STEAKHOUSE LEAD MIXOLOGIST UNVEILS NEW COCKTAIL MENU

Lead mixologist Juyoung Kang of Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse has unveiled her much anticipated new specialty cocktail menu featuring 13 handcrafted cocktails. The new menu pays respect to cocktail classics like the Old Fashioned and the Grasshopper while incorporating forward-thinking specialties with house made creations such as Earl Grey honey syrup and pineapple and dill gum syrup. Cocktail menu highlights include The Bourbon Trail (Buffalo Trace bourbon, Benedictine, coffee liqueur, orange peel), Dorian Gray (Black Grouse Scotch, lemon juice, Earl Grey honey syrup, micro flower), The Bronte Sisters (Absolut Elyx vodka, PX sherry, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, thyme, mint sprig and berries) and Piccadilly Circus (Opihr Oriental gin, Aperol, lemon juice, pineapple and dill gum syrup, dill). All cocktails are priced at $16 and are available in the lounge and restaurant.

FUN FACT

According to Wine Spectator, winemakers must “squish” about 600 to 800 grapes to produce one bottle of wine. Help us pay tribute to those winemakers at Festivino on Oct. 9.

Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Venetian Las Vegas features all-suite accommodations, exquisite restaurants by celebrity chefs and world-class entertainment and shopping. The luxury resort offers 4,028 elegant suites, including standard suites that are nearly double the size of the average Las Vegas hotel room. The Venetian is home to restaurants from celebrated chefs including Wolfgang Puck, Mario Batali, Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Emeril Lagasse and Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro. The resort also features Canyon Ranch SpaClub; a five-acre pool and garden deck; TAO nightclub; the Grand Canal Shoppes retail and dining mecca; a 120,000-square-foot casino and The Strip’s largest poker room; and more than 2.25 million square feet of meeting and convention space. Dynamic live entertainment includes concert headliners at The Venetian Theatre; ‘80s rock musical “ROCK OF AGES;” Motown favorites from the multi- platinum quartet Human Nature; and the all-female comedy series LIPSHTICK – THE PERFECT SHADE OF STAND UP. For more information, visit venetian.com, @venetianvegas and facebook.com/venetianlasvegas.

Japanese Artist Tatsuo Miyajima's Exhibit At Crystals Is Electric

Tatsuo Miyajima, one of Japan’s most influential artists over the past two decades, will debut his work “HOTO” (2008) in the United States for the first time September 22 for an indefinite engagement at The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas. The piece previously has been on display only in Japan and China.

Inspired by Buddhist scripture, HOTO – meaning “treasure pagoda” – refers to a story about a monumental bejeweled tower that emerges from the ground, floats midair and covers half the world, symbolizing the importance of every human life. According to Buddhist teachings, life cannot be described without such an impossible story because life is nothing but a miracle.

Miyajima, recognized for work that merges a philosophical appreciation of life with the latest technologies, interpreted this tale with a remarkable mirrored pagoda measuring 18 feet high and more than six feet around, inlaid with nearly 4,000 vibrantly colored LED numerical displays in varying sizes. The LED displays flash the numbers one through nine in a continuous, repetitive series, representing the never-ending cycle of life and the universal language of numbers, and reinforcing Miyajima’s hope for inter-connectedness across the globe creating peace and community.

Focusing on interaction rather than exhibition, the circular tower features angled surfaces that play with the viewer’s reflection, allowing them to visually locate themselves in the art. This is indicative of Miyajima’s work in recent years, by which he summarizes his belief that art is the expression of creativity within each of us. “I’m trying to show that every human being is unique,” Miyajima explained.

Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, said, “Las Vegas visitors are more worldly in their travel habits than ever before and seek provocative, unique experiences. One of the ways we’ve responded to this is by introducing thought-provoking art that stimulates interest and energy. Along with renowned masters from generations past, our vision is to present contemporary and forward-thinking works that fascinate people of all ages, regardless of whether they are art aficionados or casual passersby.”

HOTO is part of MGM Resorts’ larger commitment to exposing Las Vegas’ global audience to Japanese culture.  The Company recently presented the Kabuki Spectacle on the Fountains of Bellagio starring renowned Japanese actors Ichikawa Somegoro and Nakamura Yonekichi, an art installation at Bellagio by renowned sculptor Masatoshi Izumi and the first-ever Japanese-inspired display at Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

“The expansion of Japanese art and tradition on the Las Vegas Strip is a focus for MGM Resorts, and we continuously search for new and innovative ways to celebrate it,” Murren added.

The piece integrates three Buddhism-inspired concepts that dominate Miyajima’s life and work: the idea that everything changes, everything is connected, and everything goes on forever:
·         Modern Technology – Technology is constantly changing and evolving, and Miyajima’s utilization of the LED panels and electrical circuits embodies this concept.

·         Numbers – As a universal language, numbers represent the commonality and connection between all humans.

·         Programming – The piece is programmed to shift through numbers one through nine, skipping zero and instead going dark and starting over at one to represent that life goes on forever even after death. In Miyajima’s world, life, death and digits are one and the cycle is never-ending.

Miyajima’s installation is the newest addition to MGM Resorts International’s Fine Art Collection and joins a significant display of commissioned and acquired fine art at The Shops at Crystals and within the connected ARIA Resort & Casino, including James Turrell’s “Shards of Color” (2014); Henry Moore’s “Reclining Connected Forms” (1969-1974); Masatoshi Izumi’s “CACTUS Life – living with Earth” (2007-2008); Maya Lin’s “Silver River” (2009); Jenny Holzer’s “VEGAS” (2009); Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s “Typewriter Eraser, Scale X” (1998-1999); Nancy Rubins’ “Big Edge” (2009); and Frank Stella’s “Damascus Gate Variation I” (1969), among many others.  

About Tatsuo Miyajima
Tatsuo Miyajima was born in 1957 in Tokyo, Japan and continues to live and work there. In addition to participating in numerous international biennales, including the Venice Biennale (1988, 1999), Miyajima has presented numerous solo exhibitions around the world. His works are placed in the permanent collections of Museum of Modern Art, New York; San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, California; Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, Illinois; Dallas Museum of Art, Texas; Denver Art Museum, Colorado, among others.

For more information about MGM Resorts International, visit the Company's website at mgmresorts.com.

Save The Date! Helping Hands 5th Annual Hearts & Hands Gala

Take a trip back in time for a vintage Vegas-inspired evening at the Helping Hands of Vegas Valley's (HHOVV) fifth annual Hearts and Hands Gala on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 6 to 9 p.m at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center. Tickets are now on sale, with proceeds benefitting essential programs to assist senior citizens in the local community.

Guests will be transported to Vegas' golden era with entertainment from Marilyn Monroe and Dean Martin impressionists, music from Harbor Lights and a lavish array of creative hors d'oeuvres from Cut & Taste. Sponsored by Humana, the event's mistress of ceremonies will be 8 News Now's weather anchor, Sherry Swensk. Auction packages including unique items from Wirtz Beverage, South Point Hotel and Casino, Papillon Grand Canyon Tours, Canyon Gate Country Club, The Smith Center, Total Wines and others will be up for bid.

Serving since 2009, HHOV Executive Director Dana Serrata has made it her mission to increase public awareness surrounding senior issues. "The Hearts and Hands Gala helps our mission of bettering living conditions for senior citizens, allowing them to maintain their dignity and autonomy while improving health and daily living," said Serrata. "We hope everyone will show their support by purchasing a ticket."

Commemorating 15 years of service, Helping Hands of Vegas Valley feeds more than 500 low income seniors each month with home delivered groceries, provides more than 9,000 rides to medical appointments annually and helps more than 500 seniors remain at home with family members through the distribution of respite care vouchers.

Tickets are $150 and a portion of the ticket may be tax deductible.  Helping Hands uses funds wisely and 91 cents of every dollar supports its direct services for seniors. Purchase tickets online at hhovv.org, under the events page.

WIN A Getaway Here To Sin City! Smashburger Contest!!

Smashburger invites fans who think they have what it takes to survive “Sin City” to submit their most sensible, wild and outrageous survival tips on Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #SinCitySurvivalTips by 12 AM EST on October 20th. One winner will have the chance to put their tips to the test for a weekend getaway in Las Vegas for two people. Any and all tips will be accepted as long as they include the campaign hashtag #SinCitySurvivalTips, and Smashburger encourages fans to get crafty and creative with their submissions. Rules, regulations and more fun stuff (including a coupon for a free side just by registering for the brand’s Smashclub) can be found at www.sincitysurvivaltips.com.

The promotion comes in celebration of the brand’s newest addition to the burger family, the Sin City Burger, which combines American cheese, Smash Sauce, haystack onions, Applewood smoked bacon and fried egg piled up between an egg bun. The Sin City specialty burger, originally created as the regional burger only for the Las Vegas market, is now available nationwide until October 26th due to its popularity in Sin City.

Smashburger locations in the Vegas area can be found HERE - locations.smashburger.com/

You're The One That I Want! Olivia Newton-John Tribute Artist Search Begins!

You’re the One That I Want!” Legends in Concert, Las Vegas’ award-winning live tribute show, along with superstar and Flamingo Las Vegas headliner, Olivia Newton-John, have joined forces to launch the global search for the first Olivia Newton-John tribute artist.

Starting on Wednesday, Sept. 16, aspiring singers and ONJ fans are encouraged to submit a video of themselves singing a classic Newton-John song from any era via the Legends in Concert website. Participants must dress up as the real life GRAMMY award-winning music icon, or one of their favorite characters she made famous such as Sandy from “Grease” or Kira from “Xanadu.”

One “Hopelessly Devoted” fan will be selected by the Aussie icon, winning a chance to perform at one of the Legends in Concert venues throughout the U.S. The lucky winner will be determined based on overall looks, mannerisms and vocal ability to match the star’s likeness. A prestigious judging panel including Olivia will crown the very first Olivia Newton-John tribute artist.

For fans who want to get “Physical” and enter the competition, but don’t sing, can enter a related contest via Instagram. Entrants can upload a photo of themselves dressed as Newton-John, tagging @LegendsInConcertLV and using the hashtag #OliviaIsALegend.

To further celebrate the competition, Legends in Concert and Newton-John’s residencies at Flamingo Las Vegas have discounted ticket prices for VIP, golden circle and main floor price levels. With a proof of purchase of either a “Summer Nights” ticket or a Legends in Concert ticket, guests will receive a 30 percent discount. Additionally, $5 from each ticket sold will be donated to the wellness programs at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre in Australia.

For more than three decades, Legends in Concert has proudly entertained more than 6.6 million Las Vegas visitors and residents, produced over 18,500 performances on the Las Vegas Strip and performed to more than 30 million fans worldwide. Tickets for the 11 show times per week are on sale at all Caesars Entertainment box offices or by calling 702-777-2782. More information is available at www.flamingolasvegas.com or www.legendsinconcert.com.