Free concerts athte Courthouse

The Lloyd D. George U.S. Courthouse brings free lunchtime concerts to the courthouse jury selection room every month. In September, on Friday the 21 from noon to 1 p.m. everyone is invited to bring a sack lunch or enjoy the light refreshments offered as they listen to the sounds of Hot Club of Las Vegas. The band plays Gypsy Djazz, an acoustic music combining elements of American Swing, Flamenco and Parisien Musette. Born out of the Paris jazz scene in the 30's and 40's and made popular by Django Reinhardt, Stephanie Grapelli, and Quintette du Hot Club de France, the music is traditionally played on a Selmer-Maccaferri guitar.

The courthouse, located at 333 Las Vegas Blvd. South, features monthly lunchtime concerts, lectures and other entertainment, presented by the Office of Cultural Affairs of the city of Las Vegas Office of Government and Community Affairs. Call (702) 229-4614 for more information.

Swing into Fall

Make plans to for the first weekend in September to swing into fall with two great end-of-summer concerts. Sponsored by the The Las Vegas Jazz Society, the weekend kicks off on Friday, September 7 featuring Jerry Lopez’ Santa Fe and the Fat City Horns, a high-energy band that provides an organic blend of funk, salsa, swing and jazz. Come back for more on Saturday, September 8, when the musical talents of Walter Boenig Big Band and Jo Belle Yonely provide a night of Big Band Dance music sounds while honoring straight-ahead jazz.

The concerts are hosted by the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park in the super Summer Theatre, located 10 miles west of 215 on Charleston Blvd. Guests familiar with the outdoor summer theatre program know to bring a blanket, lounge chairs and a cooler of drinks to enjoy the sultry clean air and the brilliant red cliffs juxtaposed against the green grass and trees of the historic ranch.

Both concerts begin at 7 pm and gates open to the public at 6 pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $10 at the UNLV Box Office, Prestige Travel at Lake Mead and Rampart or online at unlvtickets.com. A limited number of tickets are available at the door the night of each show for $15. For more information, please call 702.594.PLAY or visit www.supersummertheatre.com.

This project is funded, in part, by a grant from the Nevada Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

Children Grow

Something about the new school year makes parents think their children are a little older and wiser than last year. Kids can't grow if they aren't allowed to increase their access to the outside world, but whoa! is that scary for parents. Modern parents may be harming their kids by being too wary of letting them out in the world. This shows up in many ways like playgrounds that are so safe they bore kids into abandoning them; empty streets that used to be filled with playing kids who now stay inside their safe homes; and middle school kids who aren't allowed to walk the mile home from school. According to a recent EPA report in 1969, 48 percent of kids walked or biked home from school; in 2001, not even 15 percent made it on their own two legs. Not only does this make kids fatter, it take away an important social time where kids can get to know their neighbors and establish friendships -- not to mention the increased carbon output from the cars waiting to take little Jimmy home.

Something that does merit caution is letting kids on the internet. They don't have the capacity to hide from the score of predators who wait to take advantage of their youth and naivety.

The city of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services is offering a free workshop on Monday, Sept. 17, designed to educate adults about the dangers inherent in use of the Internet by children and what precautions adults can take to protect their families. The workshop is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at Brinley Community School, located at 6150 Smoke Ranch Road. Nevada Child Seekers and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department are collaborating on this project. The free workshop will be offered again Oct. 15 and Nov. 19. Pre-registration is required.

For more information and to register, call (702) 229-2642.

Children Grow

Something about the new school year makes parents think their children are a little older and wiser than last year. Kids can't grow if they aren't allowed to increase their access to the outside world, but whoa! is that scary for parents. Modern parents may be harming their kids by being too wary of letting them out in the world. This shows up in many ways like playgrounds that are so safe they bore kids into abandoning them; empty streets that used to be filled with playing kids who now stay inside their safe homes; and middle school kids who aren't allowed to walk the mile home from school. According to a recent EPA report in 1969, 48 percent of kids walked or biked home from school; in 2001, not even 15 percent made it on their own two legs. Not only does this make kids fatter, it take away an important social time where kids can get to know their neighbors and establish friendships -- not to mention the increased carbon output from the cars waiting to take little Jimmy home.

Something that does merit caution is letting kids on the internet. They don't have the capacity to hide from the score of predators who wait to take advantage of their youth and naivety.

The city of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services is offering a free workshop on Monday, Sept. 17, designed to educate adults about the dangers inherent in use of the Internet by children and what precautions adults can take to protect their families. The workshop is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at Brinley Community School, located at 6150 Smoke Ranch Road. Nevada Child Seekers and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department are collaborating on this project. The free workshop will be offered again Oct. 15 and Nov. 19. Pre-registration is required.

For more information and to register, call (702) 229-2642.

100 Suns

You probably still haven’t made the trip into Nevada’s most sensitive past. The Atomic Testing Museum documents the era when the government sent employees with fake Geiger counters to assure locals that atomic bomb fallout was benign and encouraged sun glasses so locals' eyes wouldn't burn when they sat on their rooftops watching a bomb detonate. Artist Michael Light has compiled an enigmatic book and installation of one hundred images of above ground atomic explosions between 1945 and 1962 before nuclear treaties sent atomic tests underground. This isn’t kid stuff, but that doesn’t mean that kids shouldn’t see it. Through August 26; Frank H. Rogers Building at the Desert Research Institute; 755 East Flamingo Road; open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from 1 p.m. on Sundays; adults $12.50, ages 7 – 17 $9, under 7 free; 702-794-5151.

Summer Escapes

Others may get antsy after enduring months of icy winds, but it takes a long, blistering Vegas summer to really create a full blown case of cabin fever. Now, of course, somewhere out there other-people’s kids read all day, paint, or play early morning tennis. Then, in the dappled afternoon shade, they build elaborate obstacles courses to train their freshly-washed pet dogs (at least that’s what I tell my kids). However, the only obstacle course my family seems eager to build is the one in the living room when it is strewn with various forms of electronic screens. (My son likes to inform me that “a recent study said video games were good for you!” “Yeah, right,” I reply, “according to Advocates for the Afternoon Cocktail, so is a series of stiff drinks.”)

So forgo your Cosmopolitan, put a cool compress on your sweaty brow, unplug every cord in your living room then pile the family into your car for a day of adventure. The best cure for cabin fever, I’ve found, is to escape the cabin. With the daytrips I’ve uncovered, those video game buttons may even gather a little dust.

Go for the Gold

The Techatticup Mine was once the richest gold mine in Southern Nevada and has the colorful -- and violent -- history to prove it. Located above a now-serene cove in Black Canyon on the Colorado River, the property offers a variety of activities for a day of cool pleasure. First, meander into the always-70-degree restored mine shaft, then visit the nearby wrecked airplane used in the movie, “3000 Miles to Graceland.” Finally, picnic at the sandy cove and watch for bighorn sheep, wild burro and blue heron while the kids build castles in the sand. Reservations required for the mine tour, the rest is free; four person minimum; adults $12.50, 12 & under $7.50; 702-291-0026; call for directions.

Summer Concerts

Other Summer Concerts

Las Vegas’ first authentic Irish Pub, J.C. Wooloughan’s at the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa, makes its bid to capture the spirit of summer with an outdoor concert at The Backyard. Featuring Joshus Tree, a U2 tribute band, the fun begins at 9 p.m. through August. Tickets are sold at the pub for $10.

Boulder Station’s The Railhead has been drawing locals for year. Their summer concerts continue with a mix of country, rock and jazz at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. All ages, if accompanied by an adult).

September 8 John Anderson (country)

September 21 Robert Cray (jazz/blues)

August 23 Daughtry (rock)

July 21 Johnny Rivers (Rock n’ Roll)

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country offers foot-stoppin’ fun at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard, just north of the South Point Hotel and Casino. Opening in late July, the concert series features a 2,500 square foot hardwood dance floor for line dancing enthusiasts. The club will feature local, regional and national country acts. For further details check out www.stoneysrockincountry.com.

It isn’t summer without Jimmy Buffet and the Coral Reefer Band. Bama Breeze 2007 lights down at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on October 20 & 27. Tickets are on sale now at the box office or through ticketmaster.com

Jazz returns to Addison’s Lounge in the Rampart Casino with the Smooth Jazz Series from July 11 though August 1. Admission is free and classic jazz martinis (The Ella Fitzgerals, the Purple Haze and the Bellinitini) are $4 each. Call (702) 507-5900, 866-999-4899, or by visiting www.cannerycasinos.com or www.rampartcasino.com for more information

July 11 Tommy Thompson Project
July 18 The Julius Show
July 25 Ghallib Ghallab
Aug. 1 David Van Such

Whiskey Beach at Green Valley Hotel and Casino attracts locals as well as visiting Hollywood dignitaries. Join the fun at 9 p.m. (adult only). Prices vary.

July 13 Kool & the Gang

July 27 Montgomery Gentry

Santa Fe Station offers these all ages (if accompanied by an adult) summer concerts at the Chrome Showroom at 7 p.m.

July 14 Craig Chaquico (acoustic jazz)

July 27 David Benoit (contemporary jazz)

Our own Star Search band festival

Amplify! Returns to Vegas on August 7-10 for four days of industry networking. During the evening, up to 100 bands from across the country will perform at downtown venues including Beauty Bar, Brass, Canyon Club & Jillian’s where they will compete for more than $25,000 in cash and prizes including studio time at The Studio at the Palms.

Last year’s record labels included Capitol, Epic, Fearless, Geffen, Interscope, Island, J Records, Militia Group, MySpace Records, Side One Dummy, Virgin, Warner Bros – In addition to talent agencies such as CAA & William Morris, and publishing houses ASCAP, BMI & Sony. Las Vegas locals, Fletch, signed a record deal with Ifium Records.

Get ticket information at www.AmplifyMusicCompFest.com, or contact Tim Driver of Production Avenue at 702.631.2888.

Summer Pool Parties

What is it about summer concerts? There is something magical about music under the stars even when the stars are inside, or meltingly hot, or dimmed by ambient light. Maybe there will come a time when Vegas will move to Winter Concert Series, but right now, there are musical options for all tastes, budgets and ages. So whip out your personal fan and enjoy a summer classic at one of the venues below.

Pool Parties

Silverton Casino Lodge’s Poolside Concert Series offers performers on tour for their concerts. To purchase tickets, or for more information, please call (702) 914-8557 or 1-866-946-4373.

8/4 Crystal Gayle $25 8 p.m.

8/11 Lou Gramm, lead singer of Foreigner $25 8 p.m.

8/18 The Grass Roots $20 8 p.m.

8/25 Tommy James & The Shondells $25 8 p.m.

9/1 – 9/2 The Original Idols $25 8 p.m.

Summerfest at Sunset ( adult only) offers rock tribute bands poolside every Friday evening at 8 p.m. throughout the summer hosted by Marketing Director Wayne Shadd – nicknamed ‘Shamu’ – who has been featured on The Travel Channel’s American Casino. The preparty begins at 6 p.m. at the Gaudi Bar. Tickets are $7.

July 13 - Summerfest DARK

July 20 - Rattle & Hum (U2)

July 27 - Smokin’ (Boston)

The Summer Outdoor Concert Series at the Amphitheatre (all ages if accompanied by adult) begin at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary.

July 13 - Southern rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd

August 18 Vertical Horizon, SR-71, Nine Days &Marcy Playground 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 - Country group Lonestar

South Point Fever Poolside concert series, local bands and DJs play a variety of styles for adults only: Thursdays through Aug 2 at 7 p.m. $7

Cherry Nightclub Pool Party at Red Rock Resort (adult only) offers a private pool accessed through the nightclub. A local’s favorite, the music isn’t live, but the body count is. Tickets are $20.

Vegas warming

Yesterday was the hottest day in Vegas history, as recorded at McCarran airport, a sizzling 117 degrees. Of course, McCarran is cooler than other parts of the county. Our house stays reasonably cool. We have shade from old trees; I installed insulating blinds last year that go down as soon as the sun hits the windows; we don't open the door unless necessary and we try to stay indoors after 11 a.m.

This morning as I went to the garage to grab some bird feed, it was already hot by 8:30 a.m. According to my thermometer, it was over 100 degrees already. It is time for the summer desert hibernation where we sleep until 2 p.m., then stay up at night watching movies. But hot is hot.

Around 7 p.m. last night, we decided to walk downtown for some dinner -- it is only about 5 blocks. The air felt like we were being hit with a flamethrower. Normally, that is to be expected when the sun strikes the skin on a blazing summer day, but when the rays are gone, one expects a little break in the heat.

My advice: stay indoors during the day, drink plenty of water, keep the shades drawn to reduce your electricity consumption and read a good book. Eventually, it will cool down.

Mamma Mia! We LOVE that Phantom Producer!

That was a fast year. I'm waiting for the national press to do a series of stories that say the Vegas audience can support "Broadway" theater. . . . all right, I guess I'll have to do that one, myself. But guess who just celebrated their first birthdays? LOVE and Phantom of the Opera. Both the Producers and Spamalot appear to be alive and well and Mamma Mia! announced its closing, but put it off for over a year, meanwhile adding a fresh new cast. So as long as it is filling houses, I wouldn't bet on holding to that closing date. Here's what's happening on the Broadway West theater scene.

Mamma Mia!, in its fifth year, is the longest-running Broadway show on the Strip. To celebrate its closing, it adds four new principals on July 30. With fun ABBA music, the show tells the story of an about-to-be-bride who wants to know which of her mother's three former boyfriends is her father. I've never been to a performance where the audience isn't literally dancing in the aisles by the closing number.

Actress Libby Winters, takes over the lead role of Sophie Sheridan, the bride-to-be. With experience in film, television and stage including “The Like Girl,” “Champs” and the New York musical White Noise, Winters brings new life to the show.

Directly from the Broadway company of Beauty and the Beast, Rob Sutton plays Sam Carmichael, the American architect. Sutton’s recent credits include Off-Broadway’s The Ark and regional performances in Camelot and Oklahoma! Bill Austin, the Australian traveller, is played by Ron McClary who comes to Las Vegas from New York City where he starred in Summer ’69: The Musical and The Lightning Field along with television appearances on “Law and Order” and “Ed.” Joining Sutton and McClary is T. Scott Cunningham as Harry Bright, the British banker. His credits include Broadway’s Love! Valour! Compassion!, Design for Living and Tartuffe as well as television appearances on “Law and Order” and the role of Ryan in the major motion picture “Serendipity.”

Songs including “Dancing Queen”; “The Winner Takes It All”; “Money, Money, Money.”

The performance schedule for MAMMA MIA! at the Mandalay Bay Theatre is Sunday - Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 6 p.m. & 10 p.m. There is no performance on Friday.

Tickets for MAMMA MIA! are $110, $82.50 and $49.50, tax inclusive. Tickets are available by calling the Mandalay Bay Box Office at 800-632-7400, Ticketmaster at 702-474-4000 and online at www.mandalaybay.com or www.mamma-mia.com

# # #

The Producers brings Tony Danza fresh from Broadway to play the role of Max Bialystock, the conniving crook who seduces old ladies and an impressionable young accountant. Danza takes over the role beginning on August 13, 2007. Danza became a household name in "Taxi," then moved on to star in "Who's the Boss." A gifted comedian, he earned an OUter Critic's Circle Award nomination for "Wrong Turn at Lungfish" and critical acclaim as Rocky the bartender in Eugene O'Neill's "The Iceman Cometh" opposite Kevin Spacey."I loved doing The Producers on Broadway and I can't wait to do it again...AND in Vegas. WOW! " saysTony Danza.Tickets can be purchased online at parislasvegas.com or by calling the Paris Las Vegas Box Office at 877-374-7469. Group tickets can be purchased for groups of 15 or more by calling 800-828-3830. Show schedule: Monday - Friday 8 pm, Saturday 6 pm & 9 pm, and Dark Sunday.

PHANTOM – THE LAS VEGAS SPECTACULAR

Why fix it if it ain't broke? Phantom, with two spectacular casts, seems to be happily pulling in audiences. Personally, I like the shortened format -- when I saw the Broadway version, it dragged a little for me. The set is spectacular and the underground river, lit with acres of candles is one of the most memorable theater images ever. And here's a secret. The two female leads have been best friends since childhood.

	Phantom VIP Experience
	Enjoy the VIP treatment at the #1 show in Las Vegas! The Phantom VIP Eexperience $250 per person and includes the following: A backstage tour of the custom-built Phantom Theatre A private meet and greet with cast members Premium seating in the VIP Golden Circle Section of the Orchestra. Only available Tuesdays to Fridays. Please call to order (1-702-414-9000) or visit the Phantom Box Office.

Tickets: 1-702-414-9000. Show Schedule: 7 p.m. daily; dark Monday; 9:30 p.m. shows on Saturday and Monday.

We love Women and Women love Bargains!

Who doesn't love a good yardsale? The Southern Nevada branch of the National Organization of Women is holding a combined yard sale to raise funds for the organization. Browse through household items, books, clothes, electronics and furniture. If you still are clearing out your garage, you can drop off items through 7 a.m. on July 14. The sale begins on Saturday, July 14 at 6 a.m. 7916 Martingale Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89123 (off of 215 frwy and Windmill). To drop off items email Melissa at mclary00@hotmail.com (Summerlin/Southwest area); Christina at hernandez8@yahoo.com (Blue Diamond/SW); LiNor at noring@intermind.net e Green Valley/Henderson); or Jessica at brown.jessica@gmail.com (central Las Vegas).

Swim like a Mermaid

Ever wondered how to skim over the water feet first? On Saturday, July 14, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pavilion Center Pool, The Desert Mermaids synchronized swimming team will perform before inviting pool partygoers to join them and learn the dance moves during the annual “Another Hot Tropical Night.” Hot Lava Polynesian dancers and Samoan fire-eaters will entertain from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Hawaiian beach songs will float over the air as families enjoy crafts, swimming, pool games and prizes. Snow cones and other food and beverages will be available for purchase during the event.

The party is sponsored by the city of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services Recreation Division as part of their healthy living with programs that offer physical activity, mental stimulation and social interaction. Advance tickets are on sale now at the pool, priced at $8 for adults, $5 for youth under age 14 and $20 for a family of four. Tickets at the door will be priced at $10 for adults, $7 for youth under age 14 and $25 for a family of four.

Pavilion Center Pool is located on the west side of Las Vegas at 101 South Pavilion Center Drive (north of Alta Drive, between Palo Verde High School and Veterans Memorial Leisure Services Center). The outdoor pool measures 50 by 25 meters in size, has one three-meter diving board and a one-meter diving board, and ranges in depth from 4½ to 13 feet. Chairs, tables with umbrellas, lockers, pool toys and ample free parking will be available. Call the pool at (702) 229-1488 for tickets and information.

Independence Day Events

Looking for places to party on the 4th? Below is a list of activities for the Fourth of July celebration. Boulder City offers one of the biggest and oldest parades in the state with games, food and fireworks afterwards. Henderson (www.visithenderson.com/todo/special_events/fourthofjulycelebration) offers children's activities and three music stages (country, jazz and classical). Summerlin's parade is getting bigger and better each year and captured the Las Vegas Philharmonic for its fireworks display. North Las Vegas offers a July 3 event, at 6 p.m. at Seastrand Park ( 6330 Camino Eldorado). Tommy Rocker performs in a free concert at Lake Las Vegas. Catch you under the stars!

58th Annual Boulder City Damboree

Theme: "Let Freedom Ring," is the theme for Boulder City's 58th Annual Damboree Celebration.

Festivities begin on Tuesday, July 4, 2006, with the traditional 7 a.m. Rotary Pancake Breakfast in Bicentennial Park. The parade down Nevada Way begins at 9 a.m. and travels to Central Park at Fifth Street and Avenue B.

At 9:05 a.m. there will be a Flyover provided by Nellis Air Force Base

At 11 a.m. the Damboree Ceremonies take place with the flag raising, national anthem, greetings by dignitaries and the presentation of parade trophies.

Entertainment in Central Park begins at 11:30 a.m.

At 12:30 p.m. Dedication of the Robert Broadbent Memorial Park

At 2 p.m. games, contests and the traditional coin toss at the swimming pool, which takes place at 4 p.m.

From 6 p.m. until 11 p.m., the Damboree Celebration continues at Veterans' Memorial Park.

At 7 p.m. the entertainment begins and at 9 p.m. the Fireworks Show takes place. After the fireworks, there will be more entertainment until 11 p.m.



City of Las Vegas Offers Independence Day Fun Early and July 4

The city of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services offers opportunities to enjoy preparing for and celebrating the Independence Day holiday with crafts and fun activities that are part of a healthy, active lifestyle. Plan now to get together with friends and family to enjoy some of these free and low-cost opportunities.

(All activities are subject to change.)

Star-Spangled Fourth of July Celebration (all ages)
Saturday, June 30, 10 a.m. to noon
$2 per child or $5 per family
Lied Community School, 5340 W. Tropical Parkway, (702) 229-5072.
Bring the family for a barbecue, face painting, carnival games, contests and crafts. Advance registration is not required.

Free Yankee Doodle Dash (ages 50+)
Tuesday, July 3, 8 a.m.
East Las Vegas Community/Senior Center, 250 North Eastern Avenue, (702) 229-1515.
Bring friends and family for a one-mile fun walk. First 75 participants receive a T-shirt. Call to pre-register.

Red, White & Boom Breakfast (ages 50+)
Tuesday, July 3, 9 a.m.
Fee: $2
East Las Vegas Community/Senior Center, 250 North Eastern Avenue, (702) 229-1515.
Celebrate Independence Day with pancakes, eggs, bacon, strawberries, blueberries, juice and coffee. Pre-registration is required.

Red, White & Pool (all ages)
Tuesday, July 3, noon to 4 p.m.
Fee: $3
Pavilion Center Pool, 101 S. Pavilion Center (702) 229-1488.
Enjoy games, food, music and fun as you celebrate Independence Day.

Yankee Doodle at the Pool (all ages)
Tuesday, July 3, 1 to 4 p.m.
Fee: $1 (ages 4-17), $2 (ages 18-49), $1.50 (ages 50+), free (ages 0-3).
Baker Pool, 1100 E. St. Louis, (702) (702) 229-1532.
Carlos L. Martinez and Darrio J. Hall Family Pool at Freedom Park, 889 N. Pecos Road, 229-1755.
Doolittle Pool, 1950 J Street, (702) 229-6398.
Garside Pool, 300 S. Torrey Pines Drive, (702) 229-6393.
Municipal Pool, 431 E. Bonanza Road, (702) 229-6309.
Compete against the lifeguards in different games and activities for prizes.

Fourth of July Picnic Fun Workshop (ages 4-12)
Tuesday, July 3, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Fee: $12
Becker Community School, 9110 Hillpointe Road, in Hills Park; (702) 229-2482.
Make a Fourth of July picnic basket and flag cookies to enjoy on a picnic in the park. Advance registration is required.

Star-Spangled Spectacular by the Las Vegas Philharmonic (all ages)
Wednesday, July 4, 7:30 p.m. (gates open 4 p.m.)
Tickets: $25 adults; $20 children under age 12; $100 covered pavilion seating that
includes dinner. Purchase tickets at UNLV Box Office or call 895-ARTS (2787).
Hills Park Amphitheater, Hillpointe Road west of Rampart Boulevard
Popular annual concert features patriotic music followed by a fireworks display by Zambelli International. Picnics are welcome or purchase food and beverages from vendors.

http://www.visithenderson.com/todo/special_events/fourthofjulycelebration/

Summerlin's Patriotic Parade

Now in its 14th year, Summerlin’s Patriotic Parade began as a small hometown parade for community residents that featured kids on decorated bikes and home-spun floats. Today, the parade is the Las Vegas Valley’s largest Independence Day parade enjoyed by 30,000 southern Nevadans. It features more than 60 entries – including high school marching bands, community groups, floats, community mascots, children’s characters, entertainers and elected officials.

Summerlin Patriotic Parade
July 4, 2007
9 a.m.
Hills Center Drive – near Trails Village Center
INFORMATION: 702-341-5500

Star Spangled Spectacular

Star Spangled Spectacular is an outdoor evening concert featuring the Las Vegas Philharmonic performing a medley of patriotic tunes. The grand finale is of one of the valley’s largest fireworks displays. The Howard Hughes Corporation and Summerlin sponsor this annual concert that draws thousands to The Hills Park.

Star Spangled Spectacular
Las Vegas Philharmonic
July 4: Gates open at 4:30; concert begins at 8 p.m.
The Hills Park – 9100 Hillpointe Drive
General admission lawn seating:
Adults: $25.00 - Advance; $30.00 - Door
Children (Ages 6-12): $20.00 - Advance; $25.00 - Door
Children 5 and under free
INFORMATION AND TICKETS: 702-895-ARTS

Lake Las Vegas Festivities

Tommy Rocker performs on the floating stage from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free and shops and restaurants will be open, or bring a blanket and sit on the greens. MonteLago Village Resort is offering great packages starting at just $139.00 for a studio. Included is a great Jimmy Buffett-styled basket in your room! Call 1-866-564-4799 to reserve.

All Ages Fun

Years ago the national press declared us a family town, then they decided that we didn't welcome families. The truth of the matter is that, then and now, about ten percent of visitors are under age 21 (the lowest age breakdown monitored). But with a population of almost two million, many with families, there are more things than ever to do with children. Teens, however, are still looking for activities.

Jillians, located downtown in Neonopolis, is addressing this need. (They also offer a great birthday bowling package that is one of our favorite excursions.) Kids can bowl, play pool, challenge each other in a game arcade and dance to all ages bands. Take the whole family down for an evening of fun.

June

21-Jun, Searchlight, Away Station, Kelly Kellam, Radio Fire, Charly Hasse, $10

22-Jun, The Strip (Formerly Slam Dunk), The Aftermath Of, Serene, Ministry of Love, A Smile From The Trenches, Out of Nowhere, $10

23-Jun, The Cab, Verbatym, This Calendar Year, A Thorn From Every Heart, Anarbor, Water Street $12-15

25-Jun, A Static Lullaby, Eyes Like Diamonds, The Harbor, The Rising Effect, Run About The Streets, $10

26-Jun, Shredmill, Light This City, Funeral Pyre, Antagonist, Ablivion, $10-12

27-Jun, Funeral For A Friend, Scary Kids Scaring Kids, Emanuel, Fightstar, $13-15

29-Jun, Fletch, A Heartwell Ending, Love It Or Leave It, Steel Leaf, All The Rage, $11-13

30-Jun, Saosin, Poison The Well, Receiving End of Sirens, Fiore, $16



July

8-Jul, Bad Manners, Monkey, One Pin Short, Huxtable, Murder Majesty, $12-15

10-Jul, The Almost, Big D & The Kids Table, $12

11-Jul, 7th Son, Guttural Secrete, A Breath Before Surfacing, Evade The Swarm, $10-12

12-Jul, The Rocket Summer, Daphne Loves Derby, Echo Screen, Camden, $12-14

13-Jul, No Use For A Name, Whole Wheat Bread, The Flatliners, $12-14

16-Jul, Love It Or Leave It, A Skylit Drive, Pierce The Veil, Blinded Black, Kenotia, Adahliya, $10-12

21-Jul, Left Standing, Hang Em High, $10

26-Jul, Aiden, From Autumn To Ashes, I Am Ghost, Night Kills The Day, $12-14

27-Jul, Evergreen Terrace, The Warriors, Casey Jones, August Burns Red, The Atrocity Complex, $12-14

29-Jul, The Sleeping, A Thorn For Every Heart, A Day To Remember, Valeyra, $10

30-Jul, YoulnSeries, National Product, Away Station, Navy Jets Collide, $10

31-Jul, Suburban Legends, Patent Pending, Zolof The Rock N Roll Destroyer, Jet Lag Gemini, 9th and Lewis, $10



August

3-Aug, HiRax, Avenger of Blood, Dekapitator, Blood Alliance, Pancho Villa, Postmortom, $15-20

7-Aug, Amplify!! Music Conference feat: Strung Out & A Wilhelm Scream, $15 ($5 upgrade for all venues)

8-Aug, Amplify!! Music Conference, $15-20

9-Aug, Amplify!! Music Conference, $15-20

10-Aug, Amplify!! Music Conference, $15-20

24-Aug, Camden, Tysen, The Real You, $10

25-Aug, Conflict Of Interest, $10



All shows are all ages and start at 6 pm unless otherwise noted. Tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, at www.ticketmaster.com, www.smashmagazine.com or at Jillian’s. For more information on upcoming shows, please visit www.myspace.com/smashmagazine.



Jillian's is the premier entertainment destination in downtown Las Vegas for customers of all ages. Jillian's features live music, bowling, a billiards lounge, a large arcade with new and classic favorites, and food and drink outlets. Jillian's is located at 450 South Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas. This is a non-smoking facility, smoking is allowed outside of the venue. No re-entry is permitted unless patronizing the bar or restaurant. For more information, please call 702-759-0450.

Back from Ireland

July heat is finally here, closing up the house for our "winter." Nine months of the year the weather here is wonderful with warms days and cool nights. Then summer hits and we hibernate indoors. My least favorite part of summer is that we close the windows at night to keep the cool in, and the blinds during the day to keep the sun out. Our house is very private, although in the heart of town, with views of the mountains, desert gardens and old trees. Less than a mile from Lake Mead and on the Western Flyway, we get many visiting birds including exotics like Northern flickers, Western tanagers, and the tiny, elegant gray verdin with red epaulets on its shoulders. Gambel's quail come daily, stomping about in the bushes and skittering across the drive. When I put seed out Aztec doves, the size of house and purple finch, cluster under the feeder.

But with the house closed, I can't hear the dawn chorus of birds that wake me each morning in cooler weather. One would think that in the desert, there wouldn't be that many birds, but we have a full orchestra outside my bedroom window. When we went to the Amazon last year, one of the things I was most looking forward to was the morning cacophony of bird songs. I expected it to be very loud and varied, since we were in the jungle. It never came. Morning mists on the Rio Negro were almost silent with occasional eerie echoing roars from howler monkeys and the sharp quarrelsome screech of parrots flying overhead.

Ireland's dawn chorus is lovely, however, with a variety of songbirds vying for first chair. We stayed in the country on a number of nights and recorded the sunrise when all else was quiet. Sounds often make up my favorite travel memories.

Dublin Doors

Most modern cities reach up so high, they block out most of the sky. In Dublin, the sky is part of the landscape, at first blustery with cold winds and bitter rain, then the clouds whisk away to release streaks of clean sunshine that make the landscape glow. Yesterday we walked, past old stone buildings, rows of brownstones (if that is what they are called here), through parks and over a canal that feeds to the sea. The new urban design is ancient here, with street-level shops below living space decorated with oversized window sporting flower-filled window gardens. Instead of skyscrapers, the buildings are human scaled and most weathered with age. An ancient church is decorated with rare gargoyles and bas relief sculptures that are almost indistinguishable with age. And yet, walking over ancient stone sidewalks, an electric train silently slides by.

We stumble upon a professor lecturing a group of students about Irish history in St. Stephen's Green and follow meandering paths that lead to a center couryard filled with sculpted flower gardens, just missing the peak blooms of tulips. Everyone is young and in love, it seems. Up a weathered stone stairs we see a couple lost in each other's arms. Beside the water another couple seem to whisper secrets.

The streets are in use, but not crowded. As we walk we hear accents from all over the world, so many, in fact, that my brain becomes lost in the sea of cultures. Although I normally can tell a French accent from a Spanish one, I start getting confused. Lovely lilting voices all blend together into a symphony that is Dublin English.

Grafton Street is bustling with activity and shops that mostly seem filled with tourists. We see shops of Irish goods, linens, woolen sweaters, plaid caps. But Alan is looking for a cellphone repair shop. As we walk, a lovely young Chinese woman offers a free acupuncture consultation. My shoulde is aching, so I take her up on it and agree to a 45 minute session of acupuncture, massage and cupping. When it is over, I feel a little better and she talks me into massage oil and some herb to reduce inflamation. Fifteen pills twice per day for a month.

Next we see a sign for the Book of the Kells, one of the most ancient Christian texts in the world. Held at Trinity College (around since 1592) we view four books and an impressive series of educational exhibits that tell how ancients texts were made and what they mean. Afterwards we are fed through the Long Room, a lovely arching library filled with thousands of old books from notable and less notable authors. A series of worn busts depict famous authors including Jonathan Swift and Cicero. Outside we see lilacs in bloom and I pick up a light purple head that has fallen in the shrubbery. It's sweet scent takes me back thirty years and i bring it to my nose again and again throughout the rest of our walk.

On the way back we head toward Oscar Wilde park, really Merrion Square. Again, winding private paths filled with birdsong lead to a umber of grassy areas with sculpted flower gardens and again, we see the deadheads of tulips as well as a few stragglers to show us what we missed. It is beautiful anyway with other flowers in bloom, including pale azealias. Two kiosks near a sculpture of Wilde reclining on a rock are carved with his more memorable sayings about love, life and boredom. As we pass out of the gardens we see a stature of Thomas Collins, depicted in the middle of a shout. A man and a little boy approach. Alan had captured them walking toward us in the shadowed lane. "Did you take our picture?" he demands. "Yes," Alan says. "Can I have a copy?" I see Alan breath out in relief. "My name is Thomas Collins, too." We enjoy a companiable hour of Irish history, learning how Collins' negotiations with the English led to years of civil war and the revolutionary's eventual assassination.

By now it is close to sunset and the wind is picking up, threatening more rain. We stop by a number of pubs that dot the streets on the way back, but can't find any that serve food. "It is a bank holiday," we hear, although that doesn't clear things up much to us. Alan photographs the brightly painted doors, framed by a never-ending variety of intricate glass designs. We eat Malaysian food and then I fall into bed, exhausted and content.

Getting There

It is 6:30 in the morning and I seem to have escaped jet lag entirely, waking up at my normal time, thanks to an Irish friend and frequent traveler's advice to "sleep as little as possible and stay up late the first night." We flew over on MaxJet, a business class only airline that initiated direct flights from Vegas to London last winter. The flight was elegant and fun with champaign with a sweet strawberry on arrival, a canape a few minutes later and a very decent dinner a few hours into the flight. Part of the pleasant experience was deparating from Terminal 2, a human scaled terminal that was significantly less crowded than the domestic one. While the almost fully reclining seats weren't exactly comfortable after sitting in them for 9 hours, at least my bones weren't screaming like they usually are after a long flight. In fact, the flight was such a contrast from the usual cattle car that I almost expected to see Cary Grant walking down the ailes to stretch his legs. "This is what travel is supposed to be," I said to Alan. So this is how the other half lives.

Ryan Air, the only airline with a connecting flight from Stansted to Dublin, brought reality crashing back. Their reputation of customer non-service holds in our experience. We were hours early for our flight and when we tried to check our bags, were told that we couldn't check in until X:30. Got in line a few minutes before that and tried to check our luggage. Ended up being charged 135 pounds for additional weight, even though we had already paid extra when buying the ticket to check two extra bags. However, by the time that was all settled, the check in person (who actually did seem to want to help us) looked at the time and said that we were five minutes past check in time for our flight. Apparently three previous agents that we talked with misread our ticket and thought we were catching the following plane. By the time we went back to the ticket counter, paid another hundred pounds to change the ticket, rechecked our bags and ran to the gate, we barely made the new flight in time and didn't even have time to call the Dylan, where we were staying, to let them know that the transfer to the hotel that they had arranged wouldn't be needed until the next flight. (Apparently they waited for an hour at the airport, thinking that they had just missed us.)

The Dylan is lovely, in a residential sectioin of the old part of Dublin, from what we understand. The suite is spacious with heated tile floors, a rain shower, indirect lighting, a large closet and lots of nice, very high tech touches like a space age phone, flat screen TVs (inlcuding one in the shower) and modern pop decor as well as lovely silver antiques scattered about in lighted niches. We ate at the restaurant last night and found the staff very friendly, young, all from other countries including Poland, Brazil and Argentina. Cirque du Soliel had given us one inch pins from their newest show, Love, that we gave to most of them. ("We'll scatter Love buttons all over Ireland," we told Cirque.) The chef is Irish, we were told, who had created a very impressive menu. Alan had rabbit, served in a dozen bite size pieces of various bits of rabbit artfully prepared and arranged. I had halibut with a creamy artichoke sauce. The multicourse meal lasted a little over 2 hours and we noticed, unlike Vegas restaurants, that seemed to be the standard dinner experience. Afterwards we walked around the block, finding a variety of pubs, lots of old stone and brick and a variety of wonderful designs on doors and windows. It was midnight here and we had started our trip at 5 pm the previous day, so it was time for some sleep after asking for an ice pack to put on my painful shoulder, wrenched at the airport. Slept like a baby.

We're Off!

How many years have I been paying for my domain name without having a website? Let's be kind and just say, "Too many!" So now, I not only have a website, I have a blog! How cool is that?

I am sure that you want to know everything about my life and there is so much going on both with me, and in Vegas, that I'd like to share some of that excitement with you. Last week I shipped the Fourth Edition of Fun with the Family in Las Vegas, and now I am heading out to Ireland for a story for Luxury Las Vegas Magazine on food, whiskey and spas for one of my favorite editors. (I've decided I agree with Elwood P. Dodd, who recommends pleasant, so I only want to write for pleasant people.)

The bags are packed and we are ready to go. Although we leave on Saturday, we arrive on Sunday where we will wait for five hours in a London airport before getting our connecting flight to Dublin. We have a name of a friend's father to invite out for a glass of beer, so we have friends there already. Bon voyage! -- Lynn