Carlos Mencia

Carlos Mencia Returns to Treasure Island September 17

Who: Actor/Comedian Carlos Mencia

When: Friday, September 17^th @ 7p.m. & 10p.m. (must be 18 or older to attend)

Where: Treasure Island Theatre

3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Tickets: Starting at $49, $65 for VIP (entertainment & service fees not included)

For Tickets: Call 1-866-712-9308, or (702) 894-7722 or www.treasureisland.com

Giovanni

Famed Composer and Pianist Giovanni Plays the Suncoast Showroom September 25-26

International composer and pianist Giovanni performs original works and beloved classics in two intimate concerts at the Suncoast Showroom September 25 and 26, each evening at 7:30 p.m.

Italian-born and classically trained, Giovanni is known the world over for his unparalleled performances that sweep audiences into a world of romance and passion. He has performed in showrooms across Las Vegas, and around the world, and has sold millions of albums.

As the son of famed musician Alfredo Marradi, Giovanni began his classical music training at the young age of five. Under the tutelage of Michael Chesknov at the Russian Conservatory in Beirut, he blossomed as an artist and began his life-long love affair with music. Years later from Beirut, Giovanni traveled across Europe playing at grand hotels, bars and showrooms to accomplish his goal… to bring Giovanni’s music to the people, particularly in the United States. In 1984, he became a United States citizen and settled in Las Vegas where he became friends with the musical legend Frank Sinatra.

In 2003, Giovanni was featured on PBS in his acclaimed special program called “Giovanni Live from Las Vegas” where he played popular songs like “Gypsie Dance,” “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” “For You Matthew,” “Puerto de Tierra” and “Wind Beneath My Wings.” His musical works include The Way We Were, Return To Me, Passionate Piano and Italian Love Songs. Just five years later, Giovanni set the benchmark for television album sales on the television Shopping Channel QVC with his album GIOVANNI – he sold a remarkable 120,000 copies in just two hours.

In addition to being a performer, Giovanni is also an inventor and entrepreneur. He developed the “Roll Out Piano” to aid people wishing to learn and/or conveniently practice the art of the piano.

Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $19.95, plus tax and convenience fees and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 702.636.7075 or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. Save on convenience fees by purchasing the tickets in person at Coast Casinos.

Disney's The Lion King

A Special Performance of the Tony Award-Winning Broadway Sensation Disney’s The Lion King to Benefit Nevada Public Radio
Savings up to $58 off regularly priced tickets

Nevada Public Radio listeners and members have the rare chance to support public radio and experience the wonder and majesty of Disney’s The Lion King for one special performance on September 25.

The Lion King is a breathtaking adventure that stretches the boundaries of Broadway, from the heart of Africa to the plains of your imagination. Marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of animals brought to life by an enormous company of international performers, whose detailed costumes, carved masks, and intricate makeup will transport you to the gorgeous vistas of the African savanna. The critically acclaimed production includes a powerful musical score with music from Tim Rice and Elton John.

The global phenomenon is the winner of more than 70 major awards worldwide, including the Tony Award® for Best Musical, and the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Show Album. It is hailed by Newsweek as “a landmark event in entertainment,” and continues to amaze, with astounding visuals that will make this a show you’ll remember forever.

A limited number of tickets for the September 25 performance at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino at 8 p.m. will benefit and must be purchased through Nevada Public Radio.

Current Nevada Public Radio members and listeners may purchase multiple tickets at the special price of $75 for Tier II seating or $50 for Tier III seating. The special pricing equates to saving of $50 to $58 off regularly priced tickets. Tickets must be picked up at the will-call and may not be resold. To purchase tickets, visit www.knpr.org, www.classical897.org or call (702) 258-9895 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.

All proceeds benefit Nevada Public Radio. Sponsors include Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Disney’s The Lion King and Nevada Public Radio News 88.9 KNPR and Classical 89.7.

Tofu Carpaccio

Wynn Resorts proudly debuts an all-new vegan culinary program, furthering their commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences. Every fine dining and casual restaurant at Wynn and Encore now offers vegan menu items to cater to diners of various tastes and dietary preferences. As the first resort on the Strip with such extensive vegan offerings, Wynn remains on the cusp of a larger shift toward healthy eating.

The award-winning chefs at Wynn and Encore have designed exclusive vegan dishes that highlight vegetables and contain no meat or dairy. The chefs’ skill and inventiveness are reflected in options that use naturally healthy ingredients such as tofu and quinoa in a number of vibrant, flavorful preparations. An array of exotic grains and vegetables impart natural earthiness, while coconut milk and vegetable purees lend creaminess to risottos and sauces.

Special vegan dishes include fava bean puree with sauteed hon shimeji mushrooms, snap pea salad and aged balsamic vinegar at ALEX and the market chopped salad with avocado, carrots, celery, pumpkin seeds, edamame and tarragon vinaigrette at Society Cafe Encore. Hearty entree options entice vegan and non-vegans alike and include the summer vegetable gratin at Botero, risotto con verdure di stagione (risotto whipped with seasonal vegetables) at BARTOLOTTA Ristorante di Mare and Napoleon of savory tofu with ratatouille and fried eggplant at Tableau. The Country Club excites palates with a vegan version of their popular watermelon gazpacho with avocado, jicama, tomato, cucumber, cilantro and yucca crisp, while STRATTA offers whole wheat pasta primavera, a vegan take on the Italian-American staple. SW, Wynn’s signature steakhouse, serves crave-worthy vegan dishes such as grilled royal trumpet mushrooms with creamy polenta and shallot balsamic sauce.

Wazuzu’svegan crunch roll with crispy asparagus, avocado, cucumber and arare; Okada’svegan cold sobanoodle and Wing Lei’scrispy tofu with sugar pea, water chestnut, carrot and bean sprout feature flavorful Asian ingredients. Decadent desserts such as blueberry cobbler with toasted almond ice cream at Sinatra and banana crepes with coconut ice cream and avocado mousse at SWITCH provide a sweet close to any meal.

By introducing a wide variety of vegan options to all casual and fine restaurants, Wynn Resorts has found another way to ensure that every guest is wholly cared for and satisfied.

Palms Pool & Bungalows, photo courtesy 9 Group

9 Group Supports Jorge Hernandez by Hosting a Fundraiser at Palms Pool & Bungalows September 13th

Fundraiser benefits Hernandez by assisting with medical bills

9 Group hosts a fundraiser for local Las Vegas burn victim, Jorge Hernandez at the Palms Pool & Bungalows inside Palms Casino Resort on Monday, Sept. 13.

Hernandez had 80 percent of his body burned in a car explosion and lost both legs due to infection. He recently was able to return after spending more than a year in the hospital without the aid of medical insurance to help pay costs.  Twenty-seven cabanas will be sold for $100 each and all proceeds will directly benefit Hernandez and his family.

To book a cabana, call table reservations at 702.938.9999 or send an email to tables@9groupvegas.com.  For additional information, visit www.n9negroup.com.

Palms Pool & Bungalows is comprised of three-acres of opulent outdoor playground that features three pools and various attractions, including a climate-controlled gaming area, four bars and two dramatic waterfalls. Lush landscaping and a stylish design bring sophistication to this party haven.  Featuring live concerts and world-renowned deejays all summer long, Palms Pool & Bungalows provides both locals and out-of-towners an unparalleled poolside destination.  The pool features 27 amenity-packed VIP cabanas which are loaded with all the comforts of a home, including a teak and stone table with a built-in ice chest, state-of the-art sound, 32-inch plasma television, house phone, lighted fan, refrigerator and designer lounge furniture.  The menu features items such as chicken cobb salad, The Barry Burger, ahi tuna wrap and La Nova boneless chicken bites.  A comprehensive selection of classic cocktails include contemporary flavored martinis, mojitos, margaritas and signature drinks.  An extensive bottle service menu is also offered.  Palms Pool & Bungalows is open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.  Friday through Sunday.

The interior of Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo Cantina

Saturday, Sunday and Monday Specials All Season Long

Cabo Wabo Cantina “will go all the way” this football season, with a rousing roster of events taking place Saturdays, Sundays and Monday nights. Sammy Hagar’s rockin’ cantina will prove to be the best bet on the Strip with ten high-definition televisions, a delicious football brunch menu, amazing drink specials and outstanding giveaways all season long.

Football fans might not all agree on which team is best, but one thing they can all agree on is when it comes to football, Cabo Wabo’s got it going on. The cantina’s fanatical football lineup includes game time specials, kickoff return rewards, a touchdown wheel of deals, complimentary shots to fans of winning teams, a Monday night loyalty program and $1 post-game beers on Mondays.

With college and NFL games kicking off the first week in September, the rock ‘n’ roll hotspot will be raring and ready to go, opening its doors Saturdays and Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Fans will cheer on their favorite team while their taste buds cheer for Cabo Wabo’s football brunch menu, served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. all weekend long. Savory brunch specialties include chorizo and egg tacos, a big breakfast burrito and huevos rancheros along with the cantina’s menu of signature Mexican selections.

Beginning Saturday, September 4, Cabo Wabo will show each and every game on ten high definition big screen televisions. Game time specials including $5 touchdown shots, $5 buffalo chicken nachos and buckets of fries, $10 buckets of wings and $20 buckets of beer, will get fans back in the game.

Because Monday nights are extra special, the cantina will offer additional specials during Monday night games. Join “Cabo Wabo’s Monday Night Loyalty” club to receive a free entrée and a chance to win a Super Sunday party for ten at the cantina. Fans will also enjoy touchdown specials, $1 kickoff return shots, and because Cabo Wabo loves good sportsmanship, all patrons proudly sporting the winning team’s jersey at the end of each game will receive a shot on the house. Additionally, guests that stick around after the final play will enjoy $1 draft beers from 9 p.m. until close.

Sammy Hagar’s hard rockin’ dining and live music venue Cabo Wabo Cantina combines the laid back beach-town vibe of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip. Blending coastal Mexican and Tex Mex cuisine, the menu offers a tantalizing mix of flavorful food, killer margaritas, and an awesome venue where it is never uncommon to catch the red rocker himself jamming out with a live set on stage. Cabo Wabo Cantina opens daily at 11 a.m., with live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights from 9:30 p.m. until close. For more information about Cabo Wabo Cantina, visit www.cabowabocantina.com or call 702.385.2226.  For more information about Hagar and his famous Cabo Wabo Tequila, visit www.redrocker.com and www.cabowabo.com.

Vinnie Favorito

QUICK-WITTED COMIC VINNIE FAVORITO’S CONTRACT EXTENDED AT FLAMINGO LAS VEGAS THROUGH 2017

Insults Will Fly and Laughter Will Reign Supreme for another Six Years at Flamingo Las Vegas

Infamous celebrity roaster and sharp-tongued comedian Vinnie Favorito is keeping his edgy style and impromptu, comedy genius at Flamingo Las Vegas for an additional six years after the end of his current contract which runs until 2011. Known nationwide for his masterful ability to improvise and crack off-the-cuff jokes, Favorito will continue his run in Bugsy’s Cabaret at Flamingo through 2017.

“How lucky am I to be able to hurl insults and poke fun at people for a living?” said Favorito. “The Flamingo has been so welcoming and encouraging and I’m ecstatic to continue my run with them for another six years.”

Vinnie Favorito has been making audiences laugh in Las Vegas for more than a decade. He recently marked his fifth year anniversary and 3,000th performance with Harrah’s Entertainment. Over the years, the comic has roasted many well-known celebrities including Tom Arnold, Larry King, Jerry Springer, Magic Johnson and Pat O’Brien, earning him the well-deserved reputation in Hollywood for being among the best celebrity roasters.

Favorito’s comedy genius plays on current events and preys on the audience. With no pre-planned skits or notes, Favorito relies on his stellar memory and quick wit to keep the show going and the audience roaring with laughter. Each audience member provides potential comedy fodder.

“Vinnie’s shows are never the same, yet they each result in the same hysterical laughter,” said Rick Mazer, president of Flamingo Las Vegas. “We look forward to sharing his playful and entertaining irreverence with our guests for another six years.”

Favorito performs inside Bugsy’s Cabaret at Flamingo Las Vegas nightly at 8 p.m. Tickets are $54.95 or VIP $65.95 (all inclusive). Show tickets can be purchased at the Flamingo Las Vegas box office, by phone at 702-733-3333 or by visiting www.flamingolasvegas.com.

CUSTOM TATTOOS AND PIERCINGS FIND A HOME IN A SLEEPY LAGOON LOCATED ON THE HOOTERS CASINO POOL DECK

On September 4^th, Sleepy Lagoon Tattoo Parlor and Piercing will celebrate its Grand Opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony and a line-up of Orange County bands at Hooters Casino Hotel.

The Sleepy Lagoon Tattoo Parlor and Piercing will be opening a shop at Hooters Casino Hotel on Labor Day Weekend.  The grand opening will take place on Saturday, September 4, 2010.  The parlor will open at 2:00 p.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony.  You can then kick back poolside and listen to two of the OC’s favorite bands, Dub Scouts and Wino Boogie starting at 4:00 p.m.  They will be bringing their grooving Southern California beat to Vegas to mark the expansion of one of the OC’s favorite tattoo and piercing parlors.

The Sleepy Lagoon opened the doors of its Orange County location back in 1999.  Their top notch customer service and great custom tattoos over the years have made them an OC favorite.  This year, they made the 2010 “OC HOTLIST” as best tattoo and piercing in Orange County, California.

The business is a family affair headed by Moochie aka Anthony Trillo.  He became interested in the art of tattoo when as a child he got to see his father being tattooed.  Over the years, his own children have joined him in the shop along with a crew of other artists who are his extended family.  Moochie says, “My tattoo parlor is special because you feel the artist soul being placed into each work of artwork.  A tattoo should always be an expression of both body and soul. At Sleepy Lagoon, you’ll always find art to express! ”

The artists at Sleepy Lagoon can create a custom tattoo in any style that you wish.  They have over 1000 tattoo referrals to help those who need some inspiration for their next tattoo.  In addition to tattoos, the shop is going to feature piercing.  You can get dermal anchors, surface piercings, and basic body piercings.  For those who desire piercings in more private areas, those can also be accommodated too!

The shop has a very retro style.  You will find a welcoming lounge that has some art deco display shelves, a funky 50’s sofa and games to help you pass the time.  The style of this shop reflects Moochie’s love of Lowrider cars, Rockabilly and the Zoot suit era.  Throughout the parlor, you’ll find four stations.  Your friends can watch your artistic expression in the making from the velvet roped viewing area.   For those of who wish to get tattoos and piercings a less public setting, they offer two private treatment rooms.

Sleepy Lagoon Tattoo Parlor and Piercing will be open seven days a week.  The parlor opens at noon daily and remains open until midnight (Sunday-Thursday) or 2:00 a.m. (Friday & Saturday).   You can book your appointment in advance by calling (702) 597-6092 or (714) 871-4008.  They always welcome walk-in customers!  You can visit their website at www.sltattoo.com

Pinot Brasseries at the Venetian

Sip Bordeaux in September with Festivino at The Venetian and The Palazzo^® Las Vegas

Embrace all things Bordeaux with prix fixe menus at two French eateries, a Bordeaux Suite package, Bordeaux by the glass at casino bars, and culminate with a poolside tasting at AZURE Luxury Pool

The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino and The Palazzo^® Las Vegas are pleased to announce Festivino, a celebration of Bordeaux throughout the month of September. Guests will be able to enjoy three quality Bordeaux wines by the glass at The Venetian and The Palazzo casino bars such as Laguna Champagne Bar and Fusion Bar for affordable prices. Select choices from this premier winemaking region of France will also be showcased in three-course prix fixe menus from two of Las Vegas’ foremost French eateries, Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro at The Palazzo and Joachim Splichal’s Pinot Brasserie at The Venetian, along with a special poolside Bordeaux tasting event on September 24 at AZURE Luxury Pool at The Palazzo. Wine lovers can immerse themselves into the complete experience with the Bordeaux package, which includes accommodations at The Venetian and The Palazzo at a reasonable rate.

On Friday, September 24, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., AZURE Luxury Pool at The Palazzo will host a Bordeaux tasting event featuring acclaimed wineries such as Château de Parenchere, Doyac Haut-Medoc and Château Vieux St. Andre, with delectable cheese bites and a live DJ. Tickets are $29 excluding taxes and fees ($24 excluding taxes and fees for Las Vegas locals and Grazie members) and can be purchased at www.palazzolasvegas.com/festivino or at any Venetian or Palazzo box office.

AZURE Luxury Pool at The Palazzo

Winner of Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence 2010, Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro reaches into its extensive wine collection for its prix fixe menu offered throughout the month. The first course offering of Bibb lettuce and Dungeness crab salad with orange tarragon vinaigrette is paired with Château de Parenchere Bordeaux Blanc 2009. Tenderloin of beef is accompanied by a full-bodied Château du Bois Bordeaux 2006.

James Beard Award Winner Joachim Splichal’s Pinot Brasserie at The Venetian and winner of Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence since 2003, offers diners a selection from its classic brasserie prix fixe menu. Guests may choose their entrée from sea bass with prosciutto-potato hash and beurre blanc, roasted chicken with Pinot garlic frites, or hearty braised short rib with potato Dauphinois to enjoy with Château Haut-Beausejour, St. Estephe, 2005. Round out the meal with Belgian chocolate souffle served with Gran Gala orange liqueur sauce and Barton & Guestier Sauternes, 2005.

But Bordeaux Month isn’t just about enjoying an amazing meal with your vintages. The Palazzo has enhanced the wine experience with its own brand of five-star luxury in its Bordeaux Month package. The personal Bordeaux Month experience includes Luxury Suite rates starting at $159 per night, complimentary cheese and a bottle of Bordeaux waiting in the suite upon arrival. For additional information on the Bordeaux Month package visit http://www.palazzolasvegas.com/bordeaux.

Rhumbar's X-rated Mojito

RHUMBAR INTRODUCES THE SINFUL “X-RATED MOJITO”

A Sinfully Sweet Treat Available Mondays at “Pink Sugar Jam”

In the city of sin it’s often unusual to find an X-rated item with a sweet twist. RHUMBAR, the stylish drink spot with a Strip-view patio, introduces Sin City’s sexiest cocktail, the “X-Rated Mojito.” Available on Monday nights at “Pink Sugar Jam,” the naughty but nice cocktail will put guests into the rock ‘n’ roll groove with a sweet and refreshing blend of rock candy, mint leaves and the ever-so-daring X-Rated Fusion Liqueur.

“Pink Sugar Jam” is the liveliest way to enjoy the Las Vegas Strip on Monday nights, featuring live rock mash-ups and acoustic accompaniments by talented guest musicians. A great starting point for Vegas’ hottest industry night, revelers will enjoy sipping the stimulating “X-Rated Mojito” while percussionist DJ Rodney tantalizes the ears with rock-inspired beats. Kicking off at 9:30 p.m., the weekly lineup will include a range of talented musicians from up and down the Strip.

RHUMBAR’S “Summer Nights” are cool and refreshing alternatives to spend summer evenings on the Las Vegas Strip. Each night of the week RHUMBAR features lively entertainment, a cool Caribbean vibe and delicious handmade libations. For the smoke enthusiast, RHUMBAR also offers a wide selection of premium cigars to complement any palette.

RHUMBAR is a highly-stylized cocktail and cigar lounge with a cool Caribbean palate, known for its premium rum and exotic, handmade cocktails. The plush outdoor patio is reminiscent of a tropical retreat offering a picturesque location for guests to mingle, sip cocktails and smoke cigars. Located near the main entrance of The Mirage, RHUMBAR is owned and operated by Drive This! Entertainment. The lounge and patio are open from 11 a.m. until midnight Sunday through Wednesday, and 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more information please contact RHUMBAR at 702-792-7615 or visit www. RhumbarLV.com or www.DriveThisEntertainment.com.

The California Creamsicle

N9NE Steakhouse and Nove Italiano inside Palms Casino Resort gear up for one of Las Vegas’ busiest weekends of the year by offering guests the California Creamsicle cocktail exclusively available during Labor Day weekend, Friday, Sept. 3-Sunday, Sept. 5.  Dave Herlong, mixologist for 9 Group, combines Ketel One Oranje, Cointreau, fresh orange juice and vanilla bean syrup to create a delicious concoction.  Herlong mixes the ingredients, strains into a tall ice-filled glass and garnishes with an orange wedge.  Available for $15, the California Creamsicle is a mouth-watering libation sure to satisfy any thirst.

Glamorous Vegas is a three-day long music festival hosted by 9 Group and Palms Casino Resort during Labor Day weekend.  Guests will enjoy an unparalleled music lineup featuring some of the World’s most in-demand artists including BT, Eddie Halliwell, Benny Benassi, The Crystal Method, Markus Schulz, Gareth Emery and resident DJs Z-trip and Paul Oakenfold.  All-access passes for Glamorous Vegas are $475 and include VIP access to all events and hosted bars throughout the weekend.  For more information and tickets, visit www.GlamorousVegas.com.

Tropical Smoothie

All 20 Tropical Smoothie Café’s in Las Vegas Offering New Breakfast Items Beginning September 1

Exclusive Facebook offers available for new breakfast sandwiches, flatbreads and Triple Berry Oat Smoothie in Honor of National Breakfast Month

September is National Breakfast Month and all 20 Tropical Smoothie Café in the Las Vegas Valley are celebrating the occasion with the addition of three new ciabatta sandwiches and two flatbreads as well as a new Triple Berry Oat Smoothie to the breakfast menu. With these new items, Tropical Smoothie Café will make available special offers exclusively to followers on their Facebook pages.

“Studies show that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and with our new menu we want our guests to know we’re eager to become part of their daily morning routine,” said Dina Mitchell Area Developer/Marketing Director for Tropical Smoothie Café. “We’re also making it incredibly easy by offering specials to our customers who are following us on Facebook. In addition to the national Tropical Smoothie Café fan page, we have launched pages for each of our 20 stores throughout the Valley and they will all be posting special offers to their followers.”

The new breakfast menu items launch September 1 and will be available through December 26, 2010. The first exclusive Facebook offer will be available September 1-8 – providing Facebook followers a 20 percent discount off any new breakfast item purchased before 10 a.m. Additional breakfast offers will be posted on the Facebook pages for fans to take advantage of throughout the month. Each Las Vegas store will also post promotions and specials on their individual Facebook fan pages.

The tasty new ciabatta sandwiches are:
- Kick Start – Made with egg, spicy ham, bacon and buffalo sauce.
- Reggae Riser – This tropical twist to breakfast includes egg, mozzarella, ham, pineapple and jerk sauce.
- The Classic – Traditionalists will love this combination of egg, cheddar and American cheese and sausage.

The new grilled flatbreads will put a little zing into breakfast and include:
- Marinara Morning – A tangy combination of egg, mozzarella cheese, sausage and marinara sauce.
- Pesto Paradise – A heavenly meal made with egg, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ham, tomatoes and pesto.

In addition to the new flatbreads, Tropical Smoothie Café is featuring the popular Peanut Butter Banana Crunch flatbread, made with peanut butter, banana, granola and honey as part of its new breakfast lineup.

Both the new ciabatta sandwiches and grilled flatbreads are priced at $3.49.

The new Triple Berry Oat Smoothie is a hearty, nutritional combination of blueberries, cranberries and strawberries with a special blend of whole-grain oats, flax, whey, and multivitamin, sweetened with Splenda. The smoothie contains 20 grams of whole grain and 8 grams of fiber and is priced at $4.99

Customers also can get the most for their money with two breakfast combo meals, choosing either a new sandwich or flatbread and a 12-ounce orange juice for $3.99 or a new sandwich or flatbread and a real-fruit smoothie for $6.99

Tropical Smoothie Café offers an enticing selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner options including more than 35 real-fruit, blended smoothies. Guests can also satisfy their taste buds with an array of specialty Bistro and Flatbread sandwiches made with meats from Dietz & Watson, producer of the most flavorful, highest quality deli meats in the marketplace, plus salads that offer a tasty treat in a tropical aura.

Search for Tropical Smoothie Café on Facebook. To find one of the 20 Las Vegas stores, use the store finder at www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com.

About Tropical Smoothie Café
Established in Destin, Fla., in 1997, Tropical Smoothie Café has taken the smoothie concept to the next level by offering diners a healthy alternative to typical fast food. The concept, which introduced food in 1999, provides consumers with a variety of high-quality real-fruit smoothies, specialty wraps, grilled flatbread and gourmet sandwiches and salads. The company also caters. Tropical Smoothie Café includes menu options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ranked 127 out of 500 and rated one of the fastest growing franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine, the concept currently has more than 285 locations in 34 states. Plans call for over 300 locations by the end of 2011. For more information, visit www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com or call 888-292-2522.

Cabo Wabo Cantina

Celebrate Hard Work with a Party-Packed Weekend September 3^rd – 6^th

This Labor Day weekend Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino will host the most rockin’ Labor Day celebration on the Las Vegas Strip. Hard working rockers can take a break from the 9-to-5 and enjoy a Labor Day fiesta starting Friday, September 3, and lasting all weekend long.

Because no one understands music like Sammy Hagar’s rock-lovin’ cantina, Cabo Wabo will kick off Labor Day weekend with a big musical bang. On Friday and Saturday night starting at 9 p.m. guests will experience the ultimate rock-inspired piano battle. Guests will enjoy the interactive experience as they request their favorite songs in a grueling competition of the ivory keys.

And for those that may have had a little too much fun over the weekend, Cabo Wabo has the ultimate Sunday morning remedy. Revelers that want a little spice in their lives will enjoy Sammy’s Rockin’ Mariachi Brunch from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Patrons can nurse their hangovers with traditional Mexican favorites like chorizo and eggs, $6 Bloody Marias, mimosas and micheladas, while they jam out to the festive sounds of Cabo Wabo’s house mariachi band.

Partygoers that get their second wind on Sunday night will also get a shot at their 3-minutes of fame. Starting at 9 p.m. aspiring rock stars will be encouraged to take the Red Rocker’s stage and showcase their vocal talents with live band 3 Digit IQ during Cabo Wabo Karaoke. Ambitious vocalists and tipsy first-timers will be rewarded with a complimentary shot of Cabo Wabo Tequila.

Hard workers that are overworked and underpaid can “stick it to the man” on Monday as they enjoy one last night of debauchery with $1 domestic drafts from 9 p.m. until midnight.

Sammy Hagar’s hard rockin’ dining and live music venue, Cabo Wabo Cantina, combines the laid back beach-town vibe of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip. Blending coastal Mexican and Tex Mex cuisine, the menu offers a tantalizing mix of flavorful food, killer margaritas, and an awesome venue where it is never uncommon to catch the red rocker himself jamming out with a live set on stage. Cabo Wabo Cantina opens daily at 11 a.m., with live entertainment on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights from 9:30 p.m. until close.

Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is the flagship U.S. location for the legendary restaurant. The original opened in Cabo San Lucas in 1990, transforming the sleepy Mexican town into a major tourism destination, becoming the inspiration for one of the most recognizable tequila brands, Cabo Wabo Tequila.  For more information about Cabo Wabo Cantina, visit www.cabowabocantina.com or call 702.385.2226.  For more information about Hagar and his famous Cabo Wabo Tequila, visit www.redrocker.com and www.cabowabo.com.

Click to enlarge

AZURE Luxury pool at The Palazzo celebrates Labor Day all weekend long with poolside parties featuring sounds by the world famous DJ Twisted and Claudius Raphael, who has ascended the ranks of elite deejays as one of New York City’s best kept secrets. Guests can join the party by calling 702.767.3724 and making reservations for cabanas, daybeds, lounge chairs and bottle service.

Embodying sophistication at its finest, AZURE is the daytime luxury pool experience for the guest who enjoys the finer things in life with exclusive amenities including poolside cabana massages by Canyon Ranch SpaClub, cuisine from celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Evian^® water mistings and energetic sounds of AZURE’s live DJs.

WHEN: Friday, September 3 – DJ Twisted

Saturday, September 4 – Claudius Raphael

Sunday, September 5 – Claudius Raphael

Monday, September 6 – DJ Twisted

WHERE: The Palazzo

3325 Las Vegas Boulevard South

Las Vegas, NV 89109

Bill Maher

Real Time Host and Emmy-nominated Comedian Bill Maher Returns to The Orleans Showroom September 25-26

“Politically Incorrect” comedian and political commentator Bill Maher brings his trademark humor back to The Orleans Showroom September 25 and 26, each evening at 8 p.m.

Best known for his sharp political satire and sociopolitical commentary, HBO late-night talk-show host and comedian Maher began his stand-up career in 1979, and was host of New York City comedy club Catch a Rising Star. In 1982, Maher began appearing on the Johnny Carson and Dave Letterman shows, and made other television appearances, including a guest appearance on the popular drama Murder She Wrote. After his feature film debut in 1983’s D.C. Cab, Maher appeared in several films, including Rat Boy, Cannibal Women in the Avocado Jungle of Death and Pizza Man.

For the last 17 years, Maher has pushed the boundaries of how far political humor and satire can go on American television. First on Politically Incorrect (which first aired on Comedy Central before moving to ABC), and for the last seven years on HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, Maher’s combination of unflinching honesty and scathing humor have garnered him 21 Emmy nominations. In October 2008, this same combination was on display in Maher’s swipe at organized religion, Religulous, which went on to become the seventh-highest grossing documentary ever.

In addition to his television program—which has featured such regular visitors as Ben Affleck, Robin Williams, Arianna Huffington, Alec Baldwin and Michael Moore—Maher has written four bestsellers: “True Story,” “Does Anybody Have a Problem with That?  Politically Incorrect’s Greatest Hits,” “When You Ride Alone, You Ride with Bin Laden” and most recently, “New Rules: Polite Musings from a Timid Observer.”

Two of Maher’s nine stand-up specials for HBO – 2007’s The Decider and 2005’s I’m Swiss – have been nominated for Emmy Awards®.

Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $54.95, plus tax and convenience fees, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 702.365.7075 or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. Save on convenience fees by purchasing the tickets in person at Coast Casinos.

Rhumbar's Muchchita

RHUMBAR INTRODUCES ITS 100-CALORIE “SKINNY” MARGARITA

Enjoy the “Muchachita” Without the Guilt

The newest drink to hit the menu at Havanatone, RHUMBAR’s sizzling Latin night, also comes without any guilt. The new “Muchachita” is a skinny, 100-calorie margarita, featuring a delicious blend of pomegranate and Aloe Vera. Now guests can samba and shake while they sip this low calorie libation on Wednesday nights.

Concocted by award-winning mixologist Kristen Schaefer, the “Muchachita” blends the fresh taste of Aloe Vera with fruity flavors of pomegranate and lime.  Milagro Silver tequila completes this delicious and healthy cocktail.

“We wanted to create a cocktail that embraced the high-energy vibe of Havanatone,” said Schaefer. “Not only is the ‘Muchachita’ delicious, added nutrients from the Aloe Vera and pomegranate juices help to promote good health. So now guests can skip the gym and enjoy a night of Latin dancing and margaritas – and still feel healthy about it.”

The Muchachita:

2 ounces El Sol Pomegranate Aloe Vera Juice

¾ ounces fresh lime juice

1-½ ounces of Milagro Silver tequila.

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice and strain. Served with a lime wheel.

Havanatone, Vegas’ only Latin night under the stars, transforms RHUMBAR’s patio into the sexiest dance floor on the Strip every Wednesday night. Talented dancers from Rumba Rica will salsa and cha cha to live music and Latin beats by DJ Gerard Fortuna. The spicy night begins at 9 p.m. with a complimentary dance instruction for revelers that want to partake in the Latin fervor. As the night heats up, “Havanatone” will thrill audiences with fiery numbers and heart-pounding performances choreographed to the eruption of the iconic Mirage volcano.

RHUMBAR is a highly-stylized cocktail and cigar lounge inspired by the cool mood of the Caribbean. The plush outdoor patio is reminiscent of a tropical retreat offering a picturesque location for guests to mingle, sip cocktails and smoke cigars. Located near the main entrance of The Mirage, RHUMBAR is owned and operated by Drive This! Entertainment. The lounge and patio are open from 11 a.m. until midnight Sunday through Wednesday, and 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more information visit www. RhumbarLV.com or www.DriveThisEntertainment.com or call 702-792-7615

Anjul Nigam, the actor who plays the Ranjit part of Rajit and Chad in the METRO PCS ads

You know those really funny commercials for METRO PCS with the Indian Guys, Ranjit and Chad doing Tech N Talk?  I’ve been talking with “Ranjit” for a while via email.  (His real name is Anjul Nigam.) He decided at the last minute on Friday to take a couple days in Las Vegas to have some fun with his gorgeous wife and kids before their work schedule got busy again.  He asked me if I wanted to meet up.  Today was the day we got together and talked.

“I haven’t seen those commercials for a while.  Maybe it’s because of my new DVR,” I told him.

“Well, we’re about to do round three.  We did round one in December where we shot seven.  We did round two in April… March/April, where we shot another seven.  And we’re about to shoot some more right after Labor Day.”

“How long before we see them?” I asked.

“It takes about a month after we shoot it.” He said, “The spots we’re doing right after Labor Day, they are hysterical! They are taking it bigger.”  He explained that they are going to further develop the characters in ads and he thinks they are hilarious.  They are already hilarious, in my opinion, but I guess they are going to push it even farther.

We talked a little bit about “Slumdog Millionaire,” and I asked him what was up with that torturing of that poor kid that won.  “Where does that come from?” I asked him.

“It’s true.  It happens,” he said.

“Is that the kind of thing that might go on in India?” I asked.

“Not might! It does. It happens all the time,” he said.

Then we got back on track talking about Anjul’s projects he has in the works. “But you know, what it is, it’s a Cinderella story.  It’s about someone coming from slums and rising up the ranks because they won the lottery ticket.  Cinderella won the lottery ticket.  She won the Prince Charming, you know, with the glass shoe.    Especially when you’re going through a time like the entire world has with the economic collapse, since 2008, you’re looking for these inspirational stories. So, on a producer level, I’m actually dealing with two separate feature films and two separate TV projects that I’m developing and working with.  One feature film… it is a coming of age, a feel good story.  It’s about an Indian family in Oklahoma.  It’s an inspirational story.  It’s about first love between an Indian boy who is ten years old and a white girl.  It’s a beautiful story about first love and adolescence and tolerance, but it’s a comedy. We’re putting together the financing for it.

“I’m working on another one, where we did a short. Which we’re about to put together an extended version of this. It is more of a Latin based story about twin brothers. One is an assassin in Mexico and the other is a want-to-be assassin in LA.  And the two of them meet, not knowing that the other existed,” he continued.

“On the TV side, I’m working on a reality show with Jeremy Piven’s company…. And another company out of New York which has like twenty successful reality shows. We’re working with another very established TV producer and writer on a scripted TV series,” he said.

Anjul isn’t the kind of guy that just sits around waiting for his agent to find him his next job.  It is clear he loves his industry.  His wife is also a successful movie producer.  I guess you could say it is the family business.

Anjul Nigam not only appears on the “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show as part of the “Indian Call Center Guys,” but he also is a frequent guest on “Grey’s Anatomy” as psychiatrist, Dr. Raj Sen.  He’s done oodles of TV shows and worked in movies too.  It seems he’s the go-to guy for playing the Indian doctor because a lot of his roles are listed as Dr. in the movie database.

As for Jimmy Kimmel’s show?

“I haven’t done it since June.  Then they went on break. In July, I think they went on break. And they haven’t called me yet,” he replied.  Maybe it is time for a write in campaign to get their funny call for jokes from India schtick on there a little more often?  Just sayin…

If you can’t get enough of Ranjit and Chad, here is their Facebook page

If you want to follow Anjul Nigam as himself, he’s on twitter: @anjulnigam

Jimmy Kimmel Live is here

Kumamoto Oysters Three Ways at Nu Sanctuary

TAKE A BREAK WITH HAPPY HOUR AT NU SANCTUARY

Indulge in Refreshing Cocktails and Tasty Fare with Daily Happy Hour Specials

Parched guests can take a break from the heat and revive themselves with one of the many mouthwatering food and drink options offered during happy hour at nu sanctuary, the imaginative new restaurant and lounge at Town Square.

Guests will wind down with a wide selection of appetizers available for $10 from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m., and half-priced drinks from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., daily. Created by Executive Chef Brian Howard, happy hour selections include an array of nu sanctuary’s most popular items, including ‘Oysters x 3,’ ‘Ahi Tuna and Watermelon Bites,’ ‘Fried Chicken Wings with Thai Flavors’ and more. To complement these delicious menu items, nu sanctuary will offer half-off all drinks, excluding super premium cocktails and bottles of wine and sake. Guests may choose from any of nu sanctuary’s scrumptious specialty cocktails including ‘Ra,’ ‘Shiva,’ ‘Dilli Lama’ and the most popular choice, ‘nu Confessional.’

Nu sanctuary brings imaginative dining and nightlife to Town Square with such distinctive offerings as freshly made fruit hookah and cocktail selections, a modern global fusion of fare, and an innovative lineup of promotions, DJs and live music. Located across from Rave Motion Pictures, nu sanctuary is open daily for lunch, dinner and late-night starting at 11 a.m. For more information about nu sanctuary, guests may call 702.5277851 or visit the website at www.nulounge.com.

Tacos & Tequila

TACOS & TEQUILA HONORS HARD WORKERS WITH EXTENDED LABOR DAY HAPPY HOUR

It’s time to reward all that hard work and celebrate Labor Day. Tacos & Tequila (T&T), the rock ‘n’ roll-inspired Mexican restaurant at Luxor, will extend its happy hour and offer its signature Mariachi Brunch for a weekend of labor-less fun. Locals and tourists alike will enjoy a variety of specially priced libations and tasty tacos Thursday, September 2, through Monday, September 6, from 3 to 5.p.m., along T&T’s Mariachi Brunch Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

When the clock strikes 3 o’clock, revelers will feel their inner-party kick in with shots of Hornitos tequila, Dos Equis Lager or house margaritas, available for just $5 each.  For those that really want to celebrate, buckets of six, ice-cold Sol Mexican beers are available for $18 and revelers with an appetite will go loco for T&T’s delicious taco and beer bucket combo, featuring six signature tacos and a bucket of Sol Mexican beers for $29.

On Sunday, revelers will enjoy a stress-free Mariachi Brunch from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. The enticing mix of Mexican culture and Vegas flare will wash away cares as the high-energy house Mariachi band soothes the overworked soul. Authentic brunch specialties like the chilaquiles and huevos rancheros, paired with two-for-one margaritas and Bloody Marias, will prove the perfect cure for the “working man blues.”

Tacos & Tequila embodies the cool modernism of Mexico City while incorporating traditional elements of Mexican style and high-end Las Vegas panache. The color mixture of old and new creates a vivid picture of brushed aluminum, dark wood, leather, bright fabrics and colored glass. The focal point of T&T’s design is its abstract sombrero composed of 20 brushed-aluminum panels featuring thousands of laser-cut images, including two 30-foot dancing, tequila-drinking skeletons. Lit from within, the breathtaking panels stretch across the entire length of the restaurant floor and across the common area, connecting the T&T retail store and walk-up daiquiri bar.

The highly-stylized Mexican restaurant and bar with a fun, high-energy vibe and flavorful menu is located at Luxor Hotel and Casino, open daily from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. The 8,000-square-foot venue embodies Mexican culture intermixed with rock-n-roll flair with a flavorful menu created for Drive This Entertainment! by the talents of world-renowned restaurateur and chef, Richard Sandoval. For more information contact T&T at 702.262.5225, or visit the web site at tacosandtequilalv.com. Follow Tacos & Tequila on Twitter at www.twitter.com/tacosandtequila or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tacosandtequila.

Attendees posing for a group photo at a prior Beaux Arts Ball

Golden Rainbow Presents the 44^th Annual Beaux Arts Ball at Studio 54

All proceeds from event benefit the non-profit’s fight against HIV/AIDS

Golden Rainbow presents the 44^th annual Beaux Arts Ball, a Halloween celebration with custom production numbers, costume contests and a thrilling party atmosphere on Sunday, Oct. 31 at 10 p.m. The show-stopping event will serve as the grand finale to Studio 54’s legendary “Nightmare on 54^th Street” at MGM Grand.

The Beaux Arts Ball is a Las Vegas tradition dating back more than 40 years and is the biggest Halloween costume party of the year.  This year’s event at Studio 54 is sure to provide some of the most exciting moments since the Beaux Arts Ball’s inception. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased for $25 in advance and $35 at the event. All funds from the event go towards Golden Rainbow’s continued mission of providing assistance to those fighting HIV/AIDS throughout Southern Nevada.

“Each year we are so excited to see the enthusiasm for this event and the great costumes all of our guests create,” said Lea Carrasco-Zanini, Golden Rainbow executive director. “This is one of our biggest fundraising events of the year and we are always blown away by the amount of support and dedication the community puts behind the Beaux Arts Ball.”

The Beaux Arts Ball began as a private party for Las Vegas headliners to get lost in costumed fantasy and has evolved into a party open to everyone who dares to enjoy. The night features live performances by cast members of Las Vegas production shows, dancing, contests and the most outrageous costumes seen anywhere in Las Vegas. Cash prizes will be given away this year for Sexiest, Best Drag and Most Original costumes.

This year, the Beaux Arts Ball will bring to a close Studio 54’s 13^th annual Nightmare on 54^th Street Halloween celebration. Thursday, Oct. 28 through Sunday, Oct. 31, Studio 54 will host the spookiest Halloween soiree on The Strip as the illustrious nightclub transforms into a frightful playground complete with scintillating devils and seductive angels.

Golden Rainbow offers a variety of sponsorship packages for the Beaux Arts Ball. Those interested in sponsoring the event should visit www.goldenrainbow.org to review sponsorship opportunities and packages.

Stay up to date with the latest Beaux Arts Ball news and updates by following Golden Rainbow on Facebook and Twitter.