Vegas Prime Magazine (V1.8) - August 11, 2024

Lewis Black | fave pizza places | fantasy draft parties | Bobby Flay
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What’s All the
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PRIMM VALLEY CASINO RESORTS IS
YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
DESTINATION!
GERARDO ORTIZ
With four No. 1 albums, Regional
Mexico singer Gerardo Ortiz has ridden
a tremendous wave of success to become
the contemporary “King of Corrido”.
AUGUST 17
ROCK LEGENDS REVISITED
A TRIBUTE FEST TO
Bon Jovi • Eagles & Linda Ronstadt
Journey • Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac
AUGUST 31
A T R I B U T E F E S T
LOS HURACANES DEL NORTE
Los Huracanes del Norte have
established themselves as one of the most
popular Norteño groups in the genre.
SEPTEMBER 7
I LOVE THE 90’S
Oh, snap! The I Love the 90’s Tour pulled out
all the stops to put together a list of hitmakers
that speaks for itself: Vanilla Ice, Tone Loc,
Young MC, C&C Music Factory, and more!
SEPTEMBER 21
JUST SOUTH
OF VEGAS I-15

Located on the Lower Level

10
12
16
22
30
That’s Hot!
Vegas Prime Magazine Editor-in-Chief
Don Chareunsy’s top to-do picks while
you’re in Las Vegas.
Prime Picks
Our recommendations for the best pizza
in Las Vegas and the places to host Fantasy
Football draft parties.
Out + About
Sugar Ray, Tonic, Vertical Horizon +
The Rembrandts. Also: SaadiQ, Carlos
Mencia, Sebastian Bach + Cory Harwell.
Celebrity Spotlight
Dancer Jennifer Romas talks about her
career from the beginning to now. Sexxy!
Showtime
Lewis Black is at The Venetian, Rick
Springfield + Richard Marx at The Palms,
Howard Jones, ABC and Haircut 100
at Virgin Hotels and Alan Parsons Live
Project at The Smith Center.
26
Cover Feature
Hometown heroes The Killers begin
10 shows at The Colosseum at Caesars
Palace in celebration of the 20th
anniversary of their debut album
“Hot Fuss.”
40 Attractions
52
66
The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum,
Cabinet of Curiosities, Immersive
Exhibitions, Selfie Studio and hiking
at Lake Mead.
Time to Dine
Brassie B by Bobby Flay, Palate in The
Arts District and Executive Chef Sterling
Buckley, Hakkasan’s new menu items and
Spritz Life at Eataly.
64 Health + Wellness
Stay fit through a very hot Las Vegas
summer with these indoor sports.
The Last Word
Vegas Prime Whispers: Celebrity and
Las Vegas gossip and sightings. Ssshhh!
6
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

JAMAL M. PARKER
Publisher
DON CHAREUNSY
Editor-in-Chief
ARTURO PERALTA
Art Director
BRIANNA KOURETAS
Senior Account Manager
DANIEL HOWARD
Account Executive
MICHAEL URIARTE
Account Executive and Events
NOE ALARCON, JEN AVISON SMITH,
BOB BARNES, PATRANYA
BHOOLSUWAN, CHRISTIANA CINN,
ED CONDRAN, MARISA FINETTI,
STACEY GUALANDI + EMMY KASTEN
Contributors
DARIN FEINSTEIN
Founder/CEO
VEGAS PRIME MAGAZINE
3753 Howard Hughes Parkway, #200,
Las Vegas, NV 89169
www.vegasprime.com
Advertising and business inquiries
(702) 479-5022 | info@vegasprime.com
ads@vegasprime.com
@vegasprimemagazine
@vegasprimemag
Copyright 2024 by Vegas Prime Magazine. All rights reserved.
Vegas Prime Magazine is published 26 times a year. Reproduction
of any materials, images or editorial content contained in this
publication without permission of the Publisher is strictly prohibited.
Vegas Prime Magazine, 3753 Howard Hughes Pkwy, #200,
Las Vegas, NV 89169, vegasprime.com

Editor's
Letter
As two weeks of the Summer Olympics wrap up
in Paris, France, it’s time to turn our attention
to another sport – the NFL and our Las Vegas
Raiders – and back to The Entertainment Capital
of the World, where our hometown heroes
The Killers kick off 10 sold-out performers at
The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. And there is
Bobby Flay’s nearby French restaurant Brasserie
B for new dining in town.
It’s a news season for The Raiders, and we’re
rooting for the gridiron team and its coaches,
players and organization once again. We’re
ready for some football at Allegiant Stadium!
I’ve been fortunate to see The Killers live
multiple times in Las Vegas, and my fanaticism
is intact. I’m “Human,” after all. Meanwhile, the
Meyer Lemon Margarita at Brasserie B is one
of this summer’s cocktail obsessions. Thanks,
Bobby.
Speaking of food, our Time to Dine options in
this issue of Vegas Prime Magazine are the fabulous
new Palate in The Arts District with owners
Rudy Aguas and Marisa Martino and Executive
Chef Sterling Buckley; Hakkasan Restaurant
and its new menu items at MGM Grand; and
Spritz Life and its nearly 20 iterations of the
Aperol Spritz at Eataly in Park MGM. Yes, 20!
Also in this issue of Vegas Prime Magazine: Our
favorite places for pizza and hosting a Fantasy
Football draft party; That’s Hot! (our picks for
the can’t-miss); Celebrity Takeover by dancer
and all-around badass Jennifer Romas; Sugar
Ray, SaadiQ, Cory Harwell, Lewis Black, Rick
Springfield and Howard Jones; Rita Deanin
Abbey Art Museum, Cabinet of Curiosities and
Selfie Studio; hiking and The Last Word; and
more.
Vegas Prime Magazine loves Las Vegas, so let’s
make it a killer time and raid the dining room
at Brasserie B – OK, this wasn’t my best one.
Be good people (thanks, James A. Janisse).
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Vegas Prime Magazine

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
Raiders.com
Are you ready for some football? The 2024-2025
NFL season is just around the corner
(yes, we’re in preseason now), and Vegas Prime
Magazine can’t wait to see what’s in store
at Allegiant Stadium for the Las Vegas Raiders,
new Head Coach Antonio Pierce and
Quarterback Aidan O’Connell.
OUR FAVORITE THINGS
VegasPrime.com
Vegas Prime Magazine has created lists of our favorites in Las Vegas, from burgers,
doughnuts, dim sum, buffets and headliner shows to tacos, beer pubs, fried chicken
and pizza. We want you to have the best experience while in The Entertainment
Capital of the World!
MUSIC, MUSIC + MORE MUSIC
We have the details of the jam-packed
musical lineup in Las Vegas: The Killers
at The Colosseum, Rick Springfield
and Richard Marx at Pearl Concert
Theater, Alan Parsons Live Project at
The Smith Center, Howard Jones,
ABC and Haircut 100 at Virgin Hotels
and more. And for comedy, there’s
Lewis Black at The Venetian.

RITA DEANIN ABBEY ART MUSEUM
RitaDeaninAbbeyMuseum.org
An under-heralded gem in
Centennial Hills, The Rita
Deanin Abbey Art Museum
is a vast and glorious collection
of artworks. The late Las Vegas
artist’s widower, Dr. Robert
Belliveau, died on July 3, and
Vegas Prime Magazine is
beginning coverage of the
museum and its legacy.
THAT’S HOT!
By Don Chareunsy
Editor-in-Chief | Vegas Prime Magazine
THE STEAKHOUSE ISSUE
VegasPrime.com
We featured 50 of our favorite steakhouses in Las Vegas
in the July 14 issue of Vegas Prime Magazine. Our six
Prime Picks: Bavette’s Steakhouse, Bazaar Meat by Jose
Andres, Carversteak, The Steakhouse at Circus Circus,
Papi Steak and Scotch 80 Prime. So many awesome steaks,
so little time!
‘LADY LIKE’
VirginHotelsLV.com
“Lady Like – A Retro Modern Burlesque Show” at Virgin
Hotels Las Vegas debuted last October, was created by Jaimee
Gallego and Summer Soltis, stars Maren Wade and celebrated
100 shows on July 26. “Lady Like” features the glitz and
glamour of the 1950s and 1960s mixed with modern-day
humor and choreography. 9 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays.
Courtesy Photos

Vegas Prime
Picks:
Places to Host Fantasy Football Draft Parties in Las Vegas
The George Sportsmen’s Lounge
at Durango Casino & Resort
6903 S. Durango Drive, Las Vegas.
(702) 567-7855;
TheGeorgeLV.com
Dawg House Saloon & Sports Book
at Resorts World
3000 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas.
(702) 676-6964;
RWLasVegas.com
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

PKWY Taverns
Multiple locations.
PKWYTavern.com
PT’s Taverns
Multiple locations.
PTsTaverns.com
El Dorado Cantina
Multiple locations.
ElDoradoCantina.com
Five Iron Golf at AREA15
3215 S. Rancho Drive,
Las Vegas.
(800) 513-5153;
FiveIronGolf.com
WSKY by Allegiant Stadium
5624 Polaris Ave., Las Vegas.
(725) 240-7652;
WSKYStadium.com
Raiders Tavern & Grill
12300 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Henderson.
(702) 797-1000;
TheMResort.com
Born & Raised Las Vegas
Multiple locations.
BornAndRaisedLV.com
Yard House
Multiple locations.
YardHouse.com
Stadium Swim
at Circa Resort & Casino
8 Fremont St., Las Vegas.
(702) 247-2258;
CircaLasVegas.com
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 13

PICKS
Here are
Vegas Prime
Magazine's
Prime Picks for pizza in Las Vegas:
00 Pie & Pub
DoubleZeroPie.com
Chef Michael Vakneen’s
Double Zero Pie & Pub in
Chinatown recently celebrated
its first anniversary and
being named to the 50 Top
Pizza USA list. Must-order
pies: margherita, pepperoni,
funghi and salami rosa. Also:
00 Spritz, Wagyu carpaccio,
scallop crudo, insalada verde
(with anchovies) and deconstructed
cannoli. All delicious.
Evel Pie
EvelPie.com
A pizza spot in the heart of
Downtown Las Vegas that
pays tribute to the iconic Evel
Knievel, with memorabilia
and a rock-and-roll ambience.
Evel Pie serves old-school
New York-style pizza – whole
pies or by the slice. Evel Pie
also has a full bar and offers
inexpensive beers.
Good Pie
GoodPie.com
Between the garlic knots
and craft cocktails, Good
Pie on Main Street is the
pizza outpost we all need.
This Brooklyn-style spot
headed by Chef Vincent
Rotolo has been serving
up every classic pie type
since 2018. The Grandma
Pie, topped with gorgeous
ricotta flowers plopped
across the cheese, is one
taste treat among many.
Metro Pizza
MetroPizza.com
A Las Vegas staple for
many decades on Tropicana
and in Henderson.
Although Metro Pizza has
larger dining rooms than
most pizza places, you still
get a homegrown New
York-style pie and ambience
that are incredible.
Must-order: The New Yorkstyle
plain cheese pizza. A
classic from childhood.

Photo by Eugene Dela Cruz/Oneseven Agency
Northside Nathan’s
Detroit Pizza
NorthsideNathansLV.com
Detroit style in Las Vegas!
If you’ve ever had Detroit-style
pizza, you know
what we’re talking about:
focaccia style, square-pan
pizza with caramelized
edges. Crispy wings and a
Midwest ambience make
this place at 7531 W. Lake
Mead Blvd. a no-frills go-to.
Secret Pizza
SecretPizzaLV.com
This hidden gem at The
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
always hits the spot. New
York-style pizza – from
white pie to a hearty combo,
there is something for everyone.
Finding it, though,
that’s an adventure. A little
hint: It’s on the third floor.
Another little hint: Look for
Blue Ribbon Sushi.
Side Piece Pizza
SidePiecePizza.com
Side Piece Pizza is New
York and Sicilian styles
in the food court at Red
Rock Resort. By the slice or
takeout, Side Piece is one
of the best pizzas on the
westside, as we’re fans of
Chef Carlos Guerrero. And
there are worse things to do
than go to Nielsen’s Frozen
Custard next to Side Piece
afterwards.
Courtesy Photo

OUT +
ABOUT
Blasts From the Past
Sixwire, Sugar Ray, Tonic, Vertical Horizon
and The Rembrandts take over Sammy’s Island
The All-Star Jam Featuring Sixwire, at
Sammy’s Island at Palms Casino Resort
on July 20, was a hot, humid, super-fun
and free outdoor concert evening headlined
by Nashville band Sixwire.
Sixwire’s guests were The Rembrandts
(“I’ll Be There for You”), Emerson Hart
of Tonic (“If You Could Only See”), Mark
McGrath of Sugar Ray (“Every Morning,”
“Someday,” “Fly,” “When It’s Over”) and
Matt Scannell of Vertical Horizon (“Everything
You Want,” “Best I Ever Had”).
The crowd was sparse, mostly likely due
to the excessive heat weather, but the fans
were appreciative of the acts, who performed
their hits as well as covers by The
Cure, Fleetwood Mac and others. Hart
dined at nearby La Popular post-concert.
Upcoming free concerts at Sammy’s
Island: The Eagles tribute band Hotel
California (Aug. 23) and UnZepped, a
unique tribute to Led Zeppelin with a
moody, atmospheric twist (Aug. 24).
Grammy-winning reggae fusion artist
Shaggy headlined on Aug. 2.
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
Credit: Denise Truscello

R&B and B-sides Only
SaadiQ Wednesdays has launched at
Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand
SaadiQ Wednesdays, the R&B and
B-sides only party, has launched at
The Studio inside Hakkasan Nightclub
at MGM Grand.
The party, which began in 2019 through
a collaboration between Made Nightlife
and Tao Group Hospitality, makes its
way to Las Vegas from L.A., where it has
drawn a star-studded guest list including
LeBron James, Sharon Stone, Travis Scott,
Drake and others.
SaadiQ has also hosted pop-up parties at
major events such as Art Basel in Miami
and Paris Fashion Week in France.
Now, SaadiQ, aka as American singer-songwriter
Raphael Saadiq, has
teamed up with Las Vegas legend
DJ Franzen to bring this residency
to The Studio at Hakkasan.
| TaoGroup.com
Courtesy Photos
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 17

OUT +
ABOUT
Laugh Out Loud
Carlos Mencia kicks off Stars of
Comedy residency at Harrah’s Las Vegas
Legendary comedian and actor Carlos
Mencia officially kicked off his brandnew
residency with Stars of Comedy,
the series at Harrah’s Showroom at
Harrah’s Las Vegas.
Known for hosting Comedy Central’s
“Mind of Mencia,” starring in the
feature film “The Heartbreak Kid” with
Ben Stiller and touring at comedy clubs
across the U.S., Mencia offers fearless
humor and standup routines delivered
with razor-sharp wit.
Mencia’s headline performances at
Harrah’s every Sunday and Monday
deliver non-stop laughs and unforgettable
moments, making them a must-see
engagement for locals and visitors alike.
Stars of Comedy, presented by Pompey
Entertainment, also features an
ever-changing lineup of guest
comedians and surprise performers.
Upcoming in Stars of Comedy:
Jeremy Piven from Nov. 1-2 and
Paul Zerdin from Nov. 21-23.
StarsofComedy.com
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
Courtesy Photos

Rock On
Sebastian Bach takes over Fremont Street
Experience’s Downtown Rocks
Rocker Sebastian Bach took over the
six-block entertainment district Fremont
Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas
as the latest headliner in the continuing
free concert series Downtown Rocks on
July 20.
Bach, widely known as the former frontman
of Skid Row, took 1980s rock fans on
a journey back in time with his hits including
“By Your Side,” “Everybody Bleeds” and
“What Do I Got To Lose?”
Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown
Rocks free concert series continues Aug.
31 with rock artist Common Kings on the
Third Street Stage beginning at 9 p.m.
More: VegasExperience.com.
Courtesy Photos
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 19

Key to the City
Carson Kitchen founder Cory Harwell
receives honor from Mayor Goodman
Cory Harwell, founder of Carson Kitchen,
received a Key to the City from Mayor
Carolyn Goodman on July 24 in recognition
of his impactful contributions to the
city and Downtown Las Vegas culinary
scene.
Since opening in 2014, Carson Kitchen
(124 S. Sixth St.) has stood as a dining
experience cornerstone in downtown
and has been a pivotal force in transforming
the culinary scene as one of downtown’s
first destination restaurants.
“This is so longtime coming to you as
you’ve been so instrumental in helping
us revitalize the beautiful Downtown
Las Vegas, our historical and now
culinary center,” Mayor Goodman said.
“This is home for me; I’m 26 years in Las
Vegas. It is such an honor to be given this
and to understand the impact Carson
Kitchen has had on Downtown Las Vegas
and Las Vegas as a whole. I thank all my
staff here,” Harwell said.
Founded by Harwell in partnership with
celebrity chef and his dear friend, the late
Chef Kerry Simon, Carson Kitchen has
garnered prestigious “best of ” recognitions
from Thrillist, Eater, USA Today and
Culture Trip, as well as numerous mentions
and appearances on TV platforms, including
A&E Networks’ “Twisted Classics.”
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
Credit: Eugene Dela Cruz/OneSeven Agency

WHERE
CHAMPIONS EMERGE
BUFFALO BILL HOSTS
WORLD CHAMPION SLOT TOURNAMENT SERIES
Get ready for August at Buffalo Bill’s Resort
& Casino in Primm with the World Championship
Slot Tournament Series. Building
on the competitions in July, Buffalo Bill’s
boasts one of the largest tournament arenas
where champions emerge. In August don’t
miss an opportunity to progress toward
the $100,000 Grand Finale on New Year’s
Eve. Here’s how to get in on the action in
August:
Weekly excitement: $5,000 Sunday Qualifier
Tournaments from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Earn
1,000 base points to enter the tournament.
The top five places qualify for the $100,000
New Year’s Eve Finale Tournament, and
the top 16 participants will share $5,000 in
cash and free play prizes.
Major Weekend Qualifiers: $25,000
Qualifier Tournaments from Aug. 2-4 and
23-25. Earn 3,000 base points to enter the
tournaments. Earn a second-chance round
by earning 30,000 same-day base points.
$25,000 qualifiers pay down to the top 50
spots. More: PrimmValleyResorts.com

CELEBRITY TAKEOVER
Dancer
Jennifer Romas
loves the rush of being onstage
By Jennifer Romas
ADVICE FROM THE START
THE DREAM IS FREE, the hustle is sold
separately! Find your passion and follow
your dreams. There are no failures in trying.
Success comes to those who don’t give up.
Take all the beautiful memories, successes,
obstacles and hardships so you can grow
and become stronger, but don’t miss out on
all the amazing things in the present or the
things to come because you’re stuck in the
past or focused on what didn’t work out.
BE OPEN TO CHANGE. Obstacles are
really assets, and they’re not here to defeat
us but to strengthen us. It’s OK not to be
perfect – no one is, so embrace being imperfectly
perfect and believe in you. There
is only one you. That is your superpower,
so never forget that. Know your worth.
Learn to forgive, not for them, but for you
so you can move on. You are your only
competition.
and figuring out who I was and who I’m becoming
to be a better version of me to inspire others. Life’s
had its ups and downs, from being a top academic
student, gymnast, athlete, instructor and dancer
traveling, touring and performing all over the
world doing countless TV shows and racking up
career highlights.
TO SUFFERING CAREER-ALTERING INJURIES,
surgeries, divorce, eating disorders, auto-immune
issues and emotional, personal, professional and
financial struggles. To then finding my fire again
and again to start over, start my own company,
become a Las Vegas headliner and produce multiple
successful shows – including “Sexxy,” “Exxcite”
and “Red Velvet Burlesque” – with my face, name
and brands I own and work for lit up for all to see
in the greatest entertainment city in the world.
MY BIGGEST PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT
is that my parents get to share this all with me and
how proud they are. There have been many times
this little girl from Minnesota, who said she wanted
to be a dancer one day and chose to follow that
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

LIFE ISN’T EASY, and it isn’t always fair,
so how we learn, grow and handle things
will be our greatest strength. If you feel
like you’re jumping out of a plane and
assembling the pieces on the way down,
you’re doing it right. Jump! You’ll assemble
quickly. I wear so many hats and
am quite overwhelmed most of the time
and have come to realize I will never be
100% ready, so trust the process and
trust you will be OK.
ACHIEVEMENTS +
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
CREATING MY OWN COMPANY
JRR Enterprises and the trademarked
brand and show “Sexxy”
from the ground up gave me purpose
at a time when I lost who I was and
didn’t know what direction my life
was taking – or if I’d ever be able to
perform again after being dropped
and my kneecaps shattered. I found
strength I did not know I had and
learned to embrace me and the beauty
in growing and transitioning.
I FOUND HEALING AND HELP
through helping others, the support
of my family, finding love and companionship
and love for myself again
dream, has rethought this lifestyle and career and
many times where I have fallen, or the course has
changed, but they continue to believe in me and aren’t
afraid to tell it to me straight at times.
ALWAYS SHINING
I HAVE AN UNDYING PASSION for the art of
dance and music. This is how entertainers tell our
stories. We are constantly putting ourselves out
there to be judged, and we must constantly
reinvent ourselves while trying to stay true to
ourselves with honesty, integrity and hard
work. We sleep, eat, breathe and dream
our craft. It’s not a job; it’s a way of life.
I LOVE THE RUSH OF BEING ON-
STAGE, and that will never go away.
That is my passion. This is when
magic happens. I leave my heart on
the dance floor. I am trying to still
find ways and new adventures and
experiences in life to fill my passion
as I begin the next chapters
of my personal growth and
professional journey. We
learn and grow every day,
and I’m beyond blessed,
grateful and thankful for
the journey thus far, and
I know I am just getting
started. Stay tuned!
Credit: Steve Bagley

By Ed Condran
What’s All the
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

THE KILLERS CELEBRATE
20 YEARS OF DEBUT
ALBUM, HEADLINE
CAESARS PALACE
AUG. 14-SEPT. 1
There has never been a Las
Vegas-based band on a par with
The Killers. The alt-rock band led
by dynamic singer-songwriter and
keyboardist Brandon Flowers has
enjoyed great success since forming
in 2001. The Killers have sold more
than 28 million albums and have
filled stadiums and arenas around
the world.
However, there is nothing like a
hometown residency. The Killers
will kick off their long-awaited run
Aug. 14 at The Colosseum in Caesars
Palace, and the dates continue
through Sept. 1.
The Killers will mark the 20th anniversary
of their exceptional debut album
“Hot Fuss” by playing the album
in its entirety for the first time. Such
infectious, synth-driven tunes as
“Smile Like You Mean It,” “Somebody
Told Me,” “All These Things That I’ve
Done” and The Killers’ signature song
“Mr. Brightside” will be delivered.
About?
Since there are only 11 “Hot Fuss”
songs, there will be plenty of time
for other material. It’ll be curious
how many deep cuts The Killers will
render. There is plenty to draw from
since the band has seven albums.

The band is skilled at crafting agreeable guy-longs-for
girl cuts. Its winning Cure-meets-Depeche Mode-with-atouch-of
Duran Duran helped the band move quickly up
the chain to headlining substantial venues.
Unlike many recording artists, The Killers have never
been down with the phrase “less is more.” Bigger has
always been better for The Killers, who have a knack for
delivering stylish, atmospheric and arena-ready tunes.
The Killers, which also features guitarist Dave Keuning,
bassist Mark Stoermer and drummer Ronnie Vannucci,
is a dynamic live act. Flowers is adept at engaging the
audience, and it’ll be a blast to experience what the
gifted tunesmith waxes about during the residency.
It’s no surprise The Killers took off after forming.
Lo-fi was in vogue during the turn of the century.
However, there was a group of music aficionados
who were clearly underserved. They craved glitzy,
dramatic songs of love and loss, and The Killers have
been more than happy to comply.
The Killers, who took their nickname from the bass
drum of a fictitious band who appeared in New Order’s
“Crystal” video, are one of the few larger-than-life
bands on the circuit.
Each of the group’s albums has received critical
acclaim and commercial success, which is difficult to
pull off. The Killers have been working on a new album.
However, nothing has been released since 2021’s
"Pressure Machine.”
Perhaps The Killers will hit the studio after their
residency and tour conclude.
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

SINGLES BY
the
KILLERS
“Mr. Brightside”
“Somebody Told Me”
“All These Things That I’ve Done”
“Smile Like You Mean It”
“When You Were Young” (hit No. 1)
“Bones”
“Read My Mind”
“Human”
“Spaceman”
“Runaways”
“Shot at the Night”
“The Man”
“Run for Cover”
“Caution” (hit No. 1)
“My Own Soul’s Warning”
“Boy” (hit No. 1)
“Your Side of Town”
If You Go
Caesars.com

SHOWTIME
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
Courtesy Photos

Black Is Back
Happiest angry man comic is ‘at my best when I’m angry’
By Ed Condran
Most comics don’t embark on final tours, but then most
standups spend their 20s trying to find their voice as
humorists. Lewis Black, who is on his “Goodbye Yeller
Brick Road Tour,” which stops Aug. 16-17 at The Summit
Showroom at The Venetian, isn’t like most of his peers.
Black, 75, was a playwright throughout his 20s. Black
fell into standup and forged his own path by creating
his own style. There is no comic that’s quite like Black,
who practically froths at the mouth in the middle of his
unpredictable diatribes.
Black is the happiest angry man you’ll ever meet. The
comic is fueled by rage, which is evident during his
hilarious rants.
“We’re living in a phenomenally well-written piece of
satire,” Black said while calling from his New York City
apartment. “If you saw what we’re living like in a book
and it was fiction, you would have to laugh.”
Black always appears on the edge of losing it, but that
anger is an energy that propels the caustic humorist.
“Having this rage is huge because that’s when I’m
funniest,” Black said. “I’m at my best when I’m angry and
frustrated. It connects with the audience because of
their frustration.”
Black follows in a long line of iconic comics who were
inspired by their anger such as George Carlin, Richard
Pryor and Lenny Bruce.
“All of those guys have had such an impact on me,”
Black said. “It’s fine to be angry and a comic.”
The Yale Drama School graduate insists that he’s as
pleased now as he was when he was a struggling
playwright in New York during the 1980s. “I’m no
happier now than I was back then,” Black said.
After studying playwriting for seven years at the
University of North Carolina and Yale Drama School, Black
barely made ends meet. Black can’t help but look back
and laugh at one missing aspect from his prestigious
education.
“No one at UNC or Yale ever taught me about plot,”
Black said. “It’s like teaching math to students but
never having anyone in class learn about numbers.”
Like Carlin, who had hoped to become the next Danny
Kaye but fell into standup, Black did comedy on the side.
At midlife, Black realized that standup was his ticket out
of poverty.
“I didn’t become successful until I was 40,” Black said.
“It took that long to figure things out, but it’s fine.”
If You Go
VenetianLasVegas.com
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 31

The Two Richards
Rick Springfield and Richard Marx
co-headline at Palms on Aug. 17
Grammy-winning singer-songwriters Rick Springfield and
Richard Marx are bringing their “2024 Acoustic Tour” to
Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort on Aug. 17,
and the co-headlining performance begins at 8 p.m.
Over the past 40 years, Springfield has worn many hats
as an entertainer and performer. The creator of some of
the finest power pop of the 1980s, the singer-songwriter
and musician has sold 25 million albums and scored
17 Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to
Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “Love Somebody”
and “Human Touch.”
His acting credits include “Ricki and the Flash” opposite
Meryl Streep, creepy Dr. Irving Pitlor in HBO’s “True Detective,”
Lucifer on The CW’s “Supernatural,” the insane
32
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

Pastor Charles on FX’s “American Horror Story” and Dr.
Noah Drake on ABC’s “General Hospital.” His new album
“Automatic” is out now, his first album of all-new original
material in five years.
Marx has sold more than 30 million albums, starting with
his self-titled debut that went to No. 8 on the Billboard
Top 200. The album spawned four Top 5 singles, including
“Hold on to the Nights” and “Don’t Mean Nothing,”
which earned him a Grammy nomination.
His follow-up, 1989’s “Repeat Offender,” was even more
successful, hitting No. 1 and going quadruple platinum
with two No. 1 singles, “Satisfied” and “Right Here Waiting.”
He has since made history as the only male artist
whose first seven singles reached the Top 5 on
the Billboard charts.
Marx has written on a No. 1 single in each of the last four
decades, an accolade previously only reached by Michael
Jackson. He has written with and for numerous artists,
including Barbra Streisand, Keith Urban, Kenny Rogers,
Celine Dion, Chicago, Natalie Cole, Kenny Loggins, Vince
Gill, Daughtry, The Tubes, Martina McBride, Lifehouse,
’N Sync, Michael Bolton, Vixen and Josh Groban.
He won a 2004 Song of the Year Grammy for co-writing
Luther Vandross’s “Dance With My Father.”
If You Go
Palms.com
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 33

Welcome to the
Prog-Rock Show
Alan Parsons Live Project takes
The Smith Center stage on Aug. 17
34
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024

Master of progressive rock Alan Parsons and his Alan
Parsons Live Project will return to The Smith Center for
the Performing Arts by popular demand on Aug. 17 at
7:30 p.m. to play his hits on the band’s “Reset and Power
Back On Tour.”
A Grammy Award winner and rock music legend, Parsons
began his career on the engineering team at London’s
Abbey Road Studios before forming The Alan Parsons
Project in 1975. The act garnered acclaim for albums
including “I, Robot” (1977) and “Eye in the Sky” (1982) –
both certified platinum – and Top 40 hits like “Eye in the
Sky,” “Time” and “Don’t Answer Me.”
Since 1999, Parsons has toured with his Alan Parsons
Live Project, featuring a cast of musicians including
vocalist P.J. Olsson, lead guitarist Jeff Kollman and
drummer Danny Thompson.
Parsons has also released two studio albums, 1999’s
“The Secret” and 2022’s “From the New World,” which
include guest appearances from guitarists Steve Hackett
(Genesis) and Joe Bonamassa and singers Lou Gramm
(Foreigner) and Jason Mraz.
A 13-time Grammy nominee, Parsons won a Grammy
for Best Immersive Audio Album in 2019 for the 35th
Anniversary Edition of classic Alan Parsons Project album
“Eye in the Sky.”
Parsons began his career as an assistant engineer at
Abbey Road Studios, working on projects such as The
Beatles’ “Abbey Road” and “Let It Be.” Following his
engineering work on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the
Moon,” he became one of the most sought-after names
in the recording industry.
Parsons has remained a leading figure in technology ever
since, blending tech with art as a recording engineer,
producer and performer. “The Art & Science of Sound
Recording,” his book and DVD set based on his years of
expertise, is a work unlike anything else on the market.
If You Go
TheSmithCenter.com

If You Go
VirginHotelsLV.com
36
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
AEG Presents Las Vegas

Things Have
Gotten Better
Howard Jones, ABC and Haircut 100
headline Virgin Hotels on Aug. 18
New wave and alternative pop icons Howard Jones
(pictured here) and ABC have announced their onenight-only
debut at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las
Vegas on Aug. 18, and they’ll be joined by Haircut 100,
who will be playing to North American audiences for
the first time in more than 40 years with their original
lineup.
Jones said: “I’m very excited to be hitting the road with
my friends ABC and Haircut 100. Our audiences can look
forward to some seriously top tunes night after night!
Bring your celebratory selves to the party.”
ABC frontman Martin Fry stated, “ABC in the USA. Very
excited to hit the road alongside Howard Jones and
Haircut 100 for an electrifying summer tour across the
USA! Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey
as we bring the hits to stages nationwide. Let’s make
memories and rock the house together!”
Haircut 100’s Nick Heyward added, “Ever since our last
tour in 1982, we’ve been pining to play in North America
again, so this is a dream come true for us. Come down
early and get your dancing shoes on because there’s a
lot of catching up to do.”
Jones’s hits include “New Song,” “Things Can Only Get
Better,” “Life in One Day,” “No One Is to Blame” and
“Like to Get to Know You Well.” His most recent album,
“Dialogue,” was released in September 2022.
ABC’s hits include “Poison Arrow,” “The Look of Love,”
“How to Be a Millionaire,” “Be Near Me” and “When
Smokey Sings.” Haircut 100 is known for “Favourite
Shirts (Boy Meets Girl),” “Love Plus One,” “Fantastic Day”
and “Nobody’s Fool.”
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 37

Empowering
Legacy
Celebrating the
Life’s Work of a
Passionate Artist.
RESERVE
YOUR TIME
By appointment
only, a typical visit
is two hours. Scan
the code to book
your tickets.
5850 North Park Street,
Las Vegas, NV 89149
(702) 658-5097
rdamuseum.org
info@rdamuseum.org
By Appointment Only
Mon.-Wed. Closed
Thurs.-Sun. 10:00am-5:00pm

A Museum
of Inspiration
Rita Deanin Abbey was prolific, creative
and diverse in multiple mediums
By Don Chareunsy
In my first visit to The Rita Deanin
Abbey Art Museum in far Northwest
Las Vegas, I was blown away by the
late artist and UNLV professor’s talent,
prolific career and diverse creations in
multiple mediums. I especially loved her
sculptures, and her 2-year-old museum is
absolutely worth a visit for inspiration.
The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum
honors a passionate artist who has left a
magnificent legacy. The museum opened
in 2022 – one year after the artist’s death
– and presents a wondrous selection of
art created by one woman – Rita Deanin
Abbey. In the mid-1980s, Abbey and
her husband, Dr. Robert Rock Belliveau,
built a home, artist’s studio and sculpture
garden on this 10-acre site.
In the 2010s, they undertook the
construction of the 10,500-squarefoot
museum, which today presents a
career-spanning exhibition of Abbey’s
work in all its variety – from abstract

expressionist paintings to figure drawings,
enamels, landscapes, stained glass,
murals, sculptures and more.
She worked with an enormous range of
materials, techniques, styles and themes
to create artworks from the delicately
small to the multi-ton steel sculptures
on view in the sculpture garden. Abbey
said, “The infinite wonder of nature has
had the greatest influence on my work. I
have explored desert landscapes and have
been deeply affected by rock formations,
vistas, sunsets, rivers and the colors and
textures of secret canyons.”
Moving to Las Vegas in 1965, Abbey
served as an art professor at UNLV for
more than 20 years. She retired from
teaching in 1987 and devoted full time
to writing and making art, including
creating monumental public art installations
and participating in solo and group
exhibitions worldwide.
Abbey died on March 20, 2021. Belliveau,
esteemed pathologist, artist and husband
to Rita Deanin Abbey, died on July 3.
Our next feature on the museum will
focus on the couple and their legacy in
Las Vegas.

HEAD
OF THE
CLASS
Mastering Mixology at Horseshoe offers fun,
knowledge and cocktails
Photos by Jeff Ragazzo/J3creative

The Mastering Mixology
masterclass led by Master
Mixologist Daniel Ponsky in the
speakeasy The Lock inside The
Cabinet of Curiosities and The
Lock at Horseshoe Las Vegas is
interactive, fun and informative
– and participants imbibe three
cocktails.
One of which is based on the
flavor profiles and ingredients
of the participant’s choosing.
Sign us up! Located in the lower
level of Horseshoe, The Cabinet
of Curiosities is a cool speakeasy-style
bar, aka a bespoke
lounge and bar, that is home to
the secret speakeasy The Lock
– and a speakeasy inside The
Lock, as well. Confused yet?
In Mastering Mixology, learn
how to make three cocktails,
imbibe them, gain helpful
knowledge about avocados,
basil, torches and more and
receive a souvenir apron and
booklet.
Pro tip: Be certain to ask the
amiable Ponsky, who is armed
with the cocktail ingredients
and jokes, any questions – he’s
very knowledgeable – and check
out that speakeasy within the
hidden speakeasy. Reservations
are required.
If You Go
TheCabinetLV.com

Imagine Exhibitions
offers ‘King Tut’, ‘Real Bodies’
and ‘Dino Safari’ in Las Vegas

Narrative-driven and immersiveexperiences
leader Imagine
Exhibitions is offering its Las Vegas
Combo Ticket with access to all
three of its Las Vegas attractions:
“Discovering King Tut’s Tomb” at
Luxor and “Real Bodies” and “Dino
Safari: A Walk Thru Adventure” at
Horseshoe Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket,
available now and valid for
redemption through Dec. 31, can
be enjoyed at a guest’s leisure
where they can choose to make an
immersive week of it or use each
ticket over the course of the year.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket is
available for locals and tourists for
$70 for all three attractions.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket takes
guests through an immersive and
educational journey across time,
history and the human body as it
features all three of Imagine’s
Las Vegas attractions.
Get transported to ancient Egypt
and discover one of the greatest
archeological achievements that took
place 100 years ago with “Discovering
King Tut’s Tomb” at Luxor
through the perspective of famed
archaeologist Howard Carter.
Travel even farther back in time to
the days of the dinosaurs at “Dino
Safari: A Walk Thru Adventure” at
Horseshoe Las Vegas and experience
more than 30 life-sized animatronic
dinosaurs as they’re presented in
their natural habitats.
Then open your mind with “Real
Bodies” at Horseshoe Las Vegas and
learn the physiological aspects of the
human body, but also the emotional
experiences that are part of it all.
• KingTutVegas.com
• RealBodiesVegas.com
• DinoSafari.com

‘The Selfie Studio: Decades Tour’
returns to Fashion Show Las Vegas

The vibrant installation “The Selfie
Studio: Decades Tour” will once again
bring nostalgia and Insta-worthy
backdrops, allowing guests to travel
through the decades, at Fashion Show
Las Vegas. The time-traveling art
installation kicks off Aug. 1 and continues
through Aug. 27.
The complimentary nostalgic activation
will allow guests to journey through
the decades and capture vibrant
Instagrammable photos. Partnering
with the Atlanta-based NGK Agency
for a second year, FSLV will be home to
eight eye-catching containers featuring
interactive backdrops and fun themes:
The 2000s - Teenage Dream: A fetch
backdrop boasting pink fur-covered walls
and ceiling, custom lockers, an oversized
lip seat and mirror.
The Now - Gone Viral: An interactive pop-up
that will have guests reciting their fave
memes as they check out the floor-toceiling
photo series featuring some of the
Internet’s most viral memes.
The Future: A look to a time far, far away,
this space features sleek design elements,
LED lighting, custom seating and more as
guests are transported to the future.
The 1950s - The Diner: The exhibit
re-creates the beloved local hangout,
the diner, featuring bright neon signs,
chessboard flooring, retro wall art,
a counter and stools, a jukebox with
custom lighting and more.
The 1960s - Mellow Meadows: A lively
backdrop inspired by the flower power
era, Mellow Meadows allows shoppers to
snap a groovy pic in front of a VW van
with bright and dynamic patterns. This
trendy and glittery backdrop will make
shoppers feel the beat with an array of
disco balls, flashy signs and more.
The 1970s - Disco Fever: This trendy and
glittery backdrop will make shoppers
feel the beat with an array of disco balls,
flashy signs and more.
The 1980s - The Gamer: A retro wonderland
with giant video game icons, vivid
custom seats and neon lights, making for
the ultimate gamer haven.
Back to the 1990s - The Video Store: A
nostalgic video store of the 1990s
welcoming guests to experience the thrill
of browsing and picking movies from
stacks of VHS tapes as they remember
the Be Kind, Rewind sign, the video
return slot and more.
The Selfie Studio will be
in the Great Hall at FSLV
More: FSLV.com/events.

By Todd Schacherl
Hiking in Lake Mead
Arizona and Gold Strike Hot Springs
Gold Strike Hot Springs is on the Nevada
side while the Arizona Hot Springs are on
the Arizona side of the Colorado River. Gold
Strike is accessed by exiting US 11 at exit 2 and
making a right at the roundabout at the end of
the offramp and parking in the dirt lot to the
right. The trail starts just up the hill and from
the lot back where the road ends. It’s just over
5 miles to hike down to the river and back.
This is a great hike for the views; the pools are
usable but not the best.
The Arizona Hot Springs are located at mile
marker 4 on US 93 at White Rock Canyon
Trailhead. There are two routes. Following
White Rock Canyon to the river and then
going down river for about a quarter mile
and then back up to the springs. This route
is every bit of 6 miles out and back. I prefer
to come down this route but not go up as it’s
mostly wash and like walking on sand. Not fun
going uphill.
The short route brings you to the top of the
springs and is 5 miles out and back. Go to the
Arizona Hot Springs if you want a good soak.
There are usually four pools that range from
114 degrees in the top pool to 96 degrees at the
bottom pool. Both trails are closed from May
15 to Sept. 30 due to the heat.
Hamblin Mountain
This 7-mile loop hike goes past fossils of shells
when this area was a sea, past petrified wood,
near a hogback ridge (geologists will know
what that is) and of course Hamblin Mountain,
which is an ancient volcano that split in half.
The other half is about 10 miles or so east.
Hamblin has a great view of Lake Mead and
Las Vegas. This hike starts at mile marker 18
on Northshore Road. The trail starts across
the road from the pullout parking area.
Fortification Hill
This is that big, black, slanted mountain on
the Arizona side of Lake Mead. It’s an extinct
volcano that has some of the best views
of Lake Mead, the dam and Las Vegas. The
challenge with this hike is that a 4x4 vehicle is
necessary for the last 2 miles up the wash to
the trailhead. The hike itself is about 4-5 miles
round trip.
Photos by Todd Schacherl

Seven Dry Falls
There are several kayaking opportunities,
mostly in the Black Canyon area, which is the
area of the Colorado River from the dam to
Willow Beach. There are two options: One can
hire an outfitter that will put you in just below
the dam, and from there it’s 11 miles to Willow
Beach. There are quite a few canyons where
hot water is running down them, not to mention
the Sauna Cave, which was an exploratory
tunnel blasted out during the construction
of Hoover Dam. Now it’s a 100-yard tunnel
with really hot water. Bring a headlamp.
One can also camp at the beach where the
Arizona Hot Springs are located. The one
thing to pay attention to when kayaking is the
wind. One would think that paddling down
the Colorado River would be easy, but the
winds tend to blow upstream and the river
is more like a lake than a river as the current
only flows about 2-3 mph. Thus, any winds
can actually blow a kayaker upstream if they
stop paddling. Very frustrating. Winds above
13 mph and certainly above 15 mph are going
to make kayaking very difficult.
From Willow Beach, a kayaker can go about 3
miles upstream to Emerald Cave, which under
the right conditions, the water glows a bright
emerald green. Later in the day, around 1-3
p.m., is the best time.
Going from Willow Beach downstream about
1 mile, one can find Queho’s Cave, where Queho’s
remains were found in the 1940s. Queho
was Nevada’s last “Indian Renegade” and
Nevada’s first serial killer. It’s claimed that
he murdered at least a few people and
as many as 19. It’s a great
story; look it up.
Anniversary Narrows
The start of this hike is at mile marker 16 on
the Northshore Road in Lake Mead. It’s about
2 miles to the narrows through a mining area.
Yes, there are mines you can check out, but be
safe. The slot canyon itself is about a quarter
mile long. This is one of the most spectacular
slot canyons in the Lake Mead area.
Bowl of Fire
This is an area of red rocks that is accessible
from the trailhead near mile marker 20 on
Northshore Road. There are several hikes,
including Raven’s Balcony which goes to the
giant red rock wall at the back of the bowl and
offers stunning views of the whole bowl as
well as Lake Mead.
Where to Connect
Finding people for hiking is easier
than one might think. Meetup.com, and
specifically Meetup.com/VegasHikers,
is a great resource to join hikes with
folks who know where they are going.
There are more than 27,000 members
with events of varying degrees of skill
levels and multiple events daily. It’s the
most active group on Meetup.com.
Activities include hiking, scrambling,
backpacking, camping, kayaking,
canyoneering and climbing. Oh,
and it’s free. Just sign up.

TIME TO DINE
Monsieur
Flay en
Français
Celebrity chef offers French fare at bright
brasserie in Caesars Palace
Brasserie B by Bobby Flay in Caesars Palace,
the latest restaurant by the celebrity chef at
the Las Vegas Strip property following in the
footsteps of the now-closed Mesa Grill and
its successor Amalfi Coast, soft opened in
December and celebrated a grand opening
during Super Bowl weekend in February, in
the former home of Old Homestead.

The bright, classic and open brasserie design
of Brasserie B by Bobby Flay is a complete
overhaul of the former old school steakhouse,
and one can’t help but get swept up in the
casual chic ambience and design. Oh la la!
An early dinner at Brasserie B by Bobby Flay,
near Nobu, Montecristo Cigar Bar and Amalfi
Coast, included crispy oysters, roasted prawns,
mussels, prime ribeye piquant frites, chicken
brasserie, duck confit, macaroni Gruyère
gratin, chocolate soufflé and coffee ice cream,
Meyer Lemon Margaritas and cappuccino.
Everything was excellent, including the service
and main server Nabil. The standouts: the
roasted prawns, duck confit, chocolate soufflé
and coffee ice cream, Meyer Lemon Margaritas
and cappuccino.
The crispy oysters, mussels and macaroni
Gruyère gratin also were devoured. Longtime
fans of Bobby Flay, we would definitely return
to Brasserie B by Bobby Flay. Santé!
Credit: Caesars Entertainment
If You Go
Caesars.com

TIME TO DINE
Pleasing to
Your Palate
New modern American restaurant in
The Arts District is an inventive gem
By Don Chareunsy
Bar-Kada Hospitality Managing Partners
Marisa Martino and Rudy Aguas opened
their modern American restaurant Palate in
The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas in
May boasting “colorful cuisine, local art and
community.” The dynamic duo also behind
Basilico in Southwest Las Vegas have hit the
mark with all three.

Dinner was a home run the first night by
Executive Chef Sterling Buckley, who infuses
flavors that are inventive and daring – and
they work. Coincidentally, Jason has been our
server the three times we’ve dined at Palate,
and all the staff and servers have
been friendly.
Our dinner: Lady in Green, Scallops “Tiger
Style,” miso pork belly, Duck Dynasty,
outstanding scallops and grits, strawberry
rhubarb cobbler, macaroni and cheese and
cocktails including Smokin’ Section (we
ordered the last one of the night), The Rose
(served with a rose) and Tequila Makes Her
Clothes Fall Off. Everything was excellent.
Brunch service is delightful (don’t ignore the
homemade biscuits and jams, and the fried
chicken sandwich was a hit) and includes
live music, on a particular Sunday a talented
songstress at the piano.
The third meal at Palate, dinner again, was
a focused visit for the Southern Hospitality,
a large-format dinner featuring eight pieces
of fried chicken, kimchi macaroni and cheese,
carrots and biscuits. It was flavorful and filling
comfort food for the soul, and it was worth
the wait.
On certain nights, you’ll find GM Gene Belvis
wearing a Patrick Nagel/Duran Duran T-shirt.
Evening and weekend business has been very
good, but weeknights have been quiet. The
short rib has been a customer favorite, but
we haven’t had a misstep at the pleasing
Palate yet.
The glam royalty design, by Martino, is
fabulous and luxe and features rich red and
purple velvet chairs, chandeliers and local art,
including by Martino’s mother. Congratulations,
Palate, and bon appetit!
Credit: Daniel Howard

Executive Chef
STERLING
BUCKLEY
of Palate
in The Arts
District
By Bob Barnes
Chef Sterling Buckley
spent his teenage years as
a musical artist performing,
writing and recording
music but discovered his
true passion was in the
kitchen pursuing culinary
artistry.
After pursuing his craft
and bringing his creative
takes to a variety of cuisines
at some of the Las Vegas
Strip’s top restaurants,
for the first time in his
career he has the freedom
to create a menu that is
100% his own at the newly
opened Palate in The
Colorado building in The
Arts District in Downtown
Las Vegas.
Vegas Prime Magazine
talked with the talented
38-year-old Le Cordon
Bleu graduate to learn of
his path to becoming a
chef, the opening of Palate
and more.
Credit: Daniel Howard

Your mother, Hazel Payne,
won the Grammy Award
for Best New Artist in 1979
with the group A Taste of
Honey. You were on the
verge of following in her
footsteps and was almost a
breakout singer-songwriter
before becoming a chef.
What led to you deciding to
make culinary your career,
and how did you make that
happen?
Well, when I got my first
taste of the restaurant
industry, I instantly fell in
love. I was frustrated with
the fact that the music
industry wanted me to be
someone I was not, and at
that point I was ready to
move on. I made the decision
to go to culinary school
and get serious about food.
I put my head down and
worked really hard to learn
whatever I could from every
chef I worked with and do
the things that everyone
hated to do or thought was
too hard.
Over your career, you’ve
cooked in kitchens at topnotch
eateries on The Strip
such as La Cave at Wynn,
Gordon Ramsay Steak
at Paris and Momofuku
at The Cosmopolitan of
Las Vegas. What will be
different about your new
executive chef position at
Palate?
Palate is where I get to
absolutely be myself on a
plate. When you work for
celebrity chefs, sometimes
you have to fit into their
concept and work around
the vision they set for the
restaurant. Palate’s food is
all my paint and canvas. The
owners have allowed me to
be free and have fun with
the food.
You grew up with Southern
influences. Are there any
examples of your roots on
your new menu?
Yes, I wanted to show love
to the Southern table but
in my special way! So, we
have our biscuits of the
day, which have gone from
shallot confit to roasted
shishito and smoked cheddar
to scallion and Pecorino
Romano. Also, we have our
scallops and lemongrass
grits with chorizo relish
and shrimp sauce. And I’m
making fresh jams and
preserves that remind me of
my grandmother sending us
peach preserves during the
summertime.
What are some of your
favorite dishes on your
menu?
You can’t pick a favorite
child (laughs)! But if I had
to choose, it would be the
shrimp gnocchi with local
Desert Moon mushrooms,
chili espuma, xo-frito,
lobster truffle and chicharrones,
and the miso pork
belly with crispy maitake
mushrooms, smoked pearl
onions, watermelon radish
and grilled pineapple. These
two dishes really explain
me as a chef. | PalateLV.com

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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 59

TIME TO DINE
New
Culinary
Offerings
Hakkasan, Luchini, Chez Bippy + Beauty
& Essex offer menu additions
Hakkasan Restaurant, a Las Vegas favorite
alongside its adjoining nightclub since opening
in 2013 at MGM Grand, has debuted new
seasonal dishes, including a Golden Iberico
Char Siu Bao, Grilled Wagyu Loin and Wok
Fried Chicken with Walnut. They’re beautifully
plated and absolutely delicious.
For a true Hakkasan experience, indulge in
one of three signature menus: the Dragon,
Lotus and Phoenix offerings, which range
in price from $108 to $198 per person and
include the option of a wine pairing addon.
These menus feature several of the new
dishes.
Don’t forget the creative cocktails and decadent
desserts. Hakkasan set a new standard
in dining and nightlife when it opened more
than a decade ago, and it remains firmly
perched at the top – in terms of customer
service, as well.
Also at other Tao Group Hospitality
restaurants:
Luchini + Chez Bippy at MGM Grand
The Pasta Affair takes over Luchini each
Thursday starting at 9 p.m. (it kicked off on
July 11). The pre-speakeasy, pre-nightclub
dining experience features a DJ to get things
started and a pasta flight featuring three of
the Italian restaurant’s most popular dishes –
rigatoni al pesto, regginette alfredo and penne
alla rosa – designed to share for $59.
Continue the evening at Chez Bippy, hidden
inside Luchini, with Whisper Thursdays featuring
music and handcrafted cocktails, playful
and alluring libations that are New York-inspired
and eye-catching. New York Minute is
served in a ceramic “to-go” cup. It has Bulleit
Rye Whiskey, hazelnut, cynar, demerara, cocoa
and espresso and is garnished with a lady
finger cookie.
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Lip Service features a presentation where the
cocktail (Grey Goose Vodka, pamplemousse,
white peach and lemon) is served with a tall,
etched ice cube. A server pours a Berry Rosé
compote into the etched ice to reveal a set of
lips.
Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan
At Beauty & Essex, the inspiration for the new
cocktail menu was to echo the theme of dining
inside a jewelry box, with some named after
precious stones and jewelry such as Jade,
Mother of Pearl and Ring of Fire.
In an Instant is a tequila cocktail with Cincoro
Tequila, a “buzz button” (spilanthes) liqueur
that gives your mouth a tingly, slightly numbing
sensation, watermelon and lime. It’s served
in a camera lens; when you order it from the
bar, they’ll take your picture and garnish the
drink with it.
Another perfect sip for summer is Rose Gold,
a mango-infused Aperol Spritz with lemon,
grapefruit soda and prosecco.
More: TaoGroup.com
Courtesy of Tao Group Hospitality

TIME TO DINE
Puttin’ on
the Spritz
Aperitivo program ‘Spritz Life’ is
available at Eataly Las Vegas
through September
Eataly Las Vegas at Park MGM is offering
“Spritz Life,” a collection of 19 spritz variations
at its restaurants and bars featuring
their own collection of spritzes, encouraging
guests to explore Eataly and discover the
variety of summer sips.
“Spritz Life” at Eataly features traditional
presentations such as the iconic Aperol Spritz
as well as cleverly crafted twists showcasing
Italian liqueurs such as Ramazzotti, Pallini
and Italicus, non-alcoholic options and more.
The cocktails are available at La Pizza & La
Pasta, Gran Caffé Milano, L’Aperitivo Bar
and Toscana Ristorante & Bar.
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024
LA PIZZA & LA PASTA:
There is nothing like dining all’aperto (outdoors)
and enjoying a spritz in the warm
weather.
•Pallini Spritz: Choice of Limoncello,
Raspicello or Peachcello, Prosecco,
Fever Tree Club Soda ($18)
•Pompello: Casamigos Blanco, Ruby
Grapefruit Syrup, Lemon, Fever Tree
Grapefruit Soda, Prosecco ($19)
•Ibisco: Botanist Gin, Starlino Rosa, Hibiscus
Syrup, Sparkling Rosato, Lemon ($19)
•Regina Rosa: Crown Royal Peach, Aperol,
Lemon, Sparkling Rosato ($19)
Courtesy of Eataly Las Vegas

TOSCANA RISTORANTE & BAR:
Unwind in Toscana Ristorante & Bar with
spritz offerings created to pair with the traditional
Tuscan fare.
•Donna: Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin,
Borgogno Vermouth, Lemon, Fever Tree
Elderflower Tonic, Sparkling Rosato ($22)
•Monarca: Remy VSOP, Pallini Limoncello,
Lambrusco, Lemon ($23)
•Citronella: Grey Goose Essences
Strawberry and Lemongrass, Italicus,
Lemon, Moscato d’Asti ($21)
•Giallo: Casamigos Blanco, Midori,
Pineapple Juice, Pineapple Mint Syrup,
Lime, Prosecco ($23)
GRAN CAFFÉ MILANO BAR:
Upscale Italian bar showcasing specialty
cocktails, Italian wines by the glass and bottle
and traditional Italian flair.
•G&Spritz: Malfy Rosa Gin, Lemon, Moscato
d’Asti, Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic ($19)
•Botanico: The Botanist Gin, Ramazzotti
Rosa, Grapefruit Juice, Fever Tree
Cucumber Tonic ($19)
•Frangolina: Grey Goose Essences
Strawberry and Lemongrass, Borgogno
Vermouth, Lemon, Moscato d’Asti, Feve
Tree Club Soda ($21)
•Emilia: Remy VSOP, Rosa Amara Amaro,
Orange, Fever Tree Club Soda, Lambrusco
($23)
L’APERITIVO BAR:
Nestled within Eataly’s Cucina del Mercato
sits L’Aperitivo Bar. Wander more than a dozen
authentic Italian eateries and counters to
discover this intimate wine and cocktail bar.
•Azure: Botanist Gin, Blueberry Syrup,
Prosecco, Lemon ($19)
•Melone: Grey Goose Essences Watermelon
& Basil, Moscato d’Asti, Watermelon Juice,
Lime ($20)
•Limone: Don Julio Blanco, Pallini
Limoncello, Luxardo Maraschino, Lemon,
Prosecco ($19)
•Bella Rosa: Remy Martin VSOP, Ramazzotti
Rosa, Hibiscus Syrup, Lemon, Fever Tree
Club Soda, Sparkling Rosato ($21)
NON-ALCOHOLIC SPRITZ OPTIONS:
•Eatalian Spritz: Lyre’s Italian Spritz, La
Gioiosa Zero “Prosecco,” Lurisia Aranciata,
Fever Tree Club Soda ($14)
•Limonzero Spritz: Pallini Limonzero, La
Gioiosa Zero “Prosecco,” Fever Tree Club
Soda ($14)
There is a possibility “Spritz Life” could be
extended past September depending on the
weather. Eataly Las Vegas is located inside
Park MGM and can be accessed through
the casino floor or from Las Vegas Boulevard.
Eataly Las Vegas is open daily from
11 a.m.-11 p.m. More: Eataly.com

By Jen Avison Smith
Stay fit
through
a Las Vegas
summer
with these
indoor
sports
It’s August … and therefore too hot
to exercise outside in Las Vegas.
It’s basically too hot to go outside,
and that can affect a consistent
fitness regimen.
Luckily, Las Vegas contains a wealth of
workout forms that live inside air-conditioned
spaces and accommodate
athletes of all types.
Don’t skip the workouts during these
triple-degree weeks and check out these
indoor ideas to keep us all fit until the fall.

HOCKEY
Now is the time to get into the hottest sport in Las Vegas –
by lacing up those skates. Indoor ice rinks offer more than
just hockey lessons and leagues. Try figure skating for a
fun twist on open skating and learn some beautiful moves
to keep in the repertoire for winter.
MMA
A lively summer sport is never a bad idea. Any mixed-martial
arts class is guaranteed fun for all ages, and classes
are held exclusively indoors. Choose from muay Thai,
Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, wrestling, boxing or judo,
among others.
YOGA
Yoga is the soothing practice that helps loosen muscles
and treat stiff joints while building strength and promoting
relaxation. Want another challenge? Try taking a hot yoga
class at a designated studio or try Hotworx for an infrared
sweat session. That way, yogis get all the positives of
intense heat without the sun’s glare.
SWIMMING
Fun fact: There are no indoor pools on the Las Vegas Strip.
That doesn’t mean other establishments are lacking cool,
refreshing pools to dive into during the summer. Enjoy gym
swimming holes at Life Time or local facilities.
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball is all the rage right now. Famously an outdoor
activity, some facilities have taken this ultra-trendy court
sport indoors. Vegas Indoor Pickleball and Life Time Summerlin
are two such spots, where fanatics can dink inside
and away from the hot turf of the pickleball court.
SOCCER
A surprising number of indoor fields are in the city proper,
perfect to practice and play a variety of sports. Head inside
when the sun beats down on the outdoor grass and kick the
ball around at sports parks up and down residential areas,
mostly on the westside. Visit Indoor 5 Soccer Arena or Las
Vegas Indoor Soccer for a pickup game or head up a general
indoor field for sports like football or baseball.
TRAMPOLINE PARKS
While trampolines don’t sound like conventional workouts,
moving the body for hours at a fun park is a great family
activity. Take the kids – and spry adults – to bounce through
courses and cool spaces covered in trampolines.
PAINTBALL
We know paintball isn’t a sport, but the physical aspect
of running around and launching brightly colored pellets
at friends is an undeniable thrill. Plus, visiting a paintball
center is an excellent way to incorporate exercise into a
birthday party or other special event. Grab several friends
and make teams for this fun pastime.
ANYTHING AT ALL
No matter the physical fitness form, Las Vegas has
an outlet for it, indoor or otherwise. If you or your
community indulge in a workout session, tag us on
@vegasprimemagazine to share the experience.
Happy sweating!
VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024 65

The
LAST WORD
In honor of the late Robin Leach, Vegas Prime
Magazine has reimagined his longtime Wicked
Whispers & Racy Rumors as Vegas Prime
Whispers – as a tip of the toque to the verymuch-missed
colleague, mentor and friend.
VEGAS PRIME WHISPERS
Which latest Strip split is raising eyebrows from the
fallout and accusations from one side of the couple?
(So what else is new?)
Which Strip celebrity chef isn’t playing very nice with
media? (So what else is new?)
Which Strip celebrity is trying to persuade her significant
other to move to Las Vegas permanently?
Which Strip star and personality (two separate people)
have especially scandalous side pieces?
(So what else is new?)
What was the reason for the latest last-minute show
cancellation on the Las Vegas Strip?
Email your Vegas Prime Whispers
to editorial@vegasprime.com.
CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS
Easy Day Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to assisting veterans as they reintegrate into society, with
mental health, employment and family services, and founded by Frank Fertitta IV and Landon Gyulay, hosted an inaugural
fundraiser at Red Rock Casino & Resort that raised more than $1.3 million and was attended by Drew Taggart
and Alex Pall of The Chainsmokers. EDF’s partner organizations include USO, Folded Flag, Boot Campaign and UNLV’s
Military and Veteran Services Center. Taggart, Fertitta, Gyulay and Pall are pictured in the photo. More: EasyDay.org
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VEGASPRIME.COM | August 11, 2024