Issue 2

Nicky Blair has always entertained folks on the movie screen, as well as in his kitchen. He has a following that reads like Who's Who of Hollywood. It all started when Nicky would cook for his friends in between filming with buddies like Tony Curtis, Clint Eastwood, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, just to name a few. It became the occasion to join in on the fun and partake in Nicky's fine food. In fact, it was so much of an experience that Clint Eastwood suggested he open his own restaurant.

Nicky Blair's opened on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood, and became a household name. Fortunately for us, it was time to look for new horizons and in these modern times, all roads lead to Las Vegas, where Nicky Blair's Restaurant is the hit of the city.

What makes this restaurant so popular is Nicky's reputation as an actor and restaurateur. Beautiful oakwood paneling compliments the contemporary furnishings of this fine restaurant. As one enters, you see the cocktail lounge to the left with a piano bar and cozy booths. To the right is a beautiful private banquet room and a very impressive presentation of some of the finest wines throughout the world. When my guest Dr. Robert Gross and I arrived, we were greeted by Nicky, and he escorted us to our table. Our culinary journey started with some marvelous salad - not an ordinary one, but one with various lettuces and spices.

It was an unusual evening and a delightful one at that in talking with Nicky about his career as an actor and about how important it is to serve quality food which is also healthy. Don't misunderstand me - I'm not a health nut, I enjoy quality cuisine and this was some of the best.

Which brings me to the main entree - Mahi Mahi. In my travels I've enjoyed some great dishes. This fish was as enjoyable as the one I had in Hawaii. The difference is the price and the company. Here we have a wonderful host who has everything in life including his friends. Then there's the best quality food which is so reasonably priced. The Mahi was only $18.00. In Hawaii the same dish costs $35.00 and up!

Nicky Blair's is one of my favorite places to dine. It's not too quiet, yet it has the ambiance of that of New York eateries with music that blends to your ears. There isn't anything on the menu that I would not recommend. And for those who partake in desserts - all of Nicky Blair's desserts are homemade. So if your attention is aroused, why not stop by Nicky Blair's. They're located on Paradise, in the front of the Howard Hughes Center. Perhaps a conversation over a cocktail just might be the way to acquaint yourself with this fine restaurant.

While you're there, check out the pictures throughout the lounge. You'll see classics such as Nicky Blair with Frank Sinatra in Ocean's 11 and Viva Las Vegas with Elvis Presley. Reservations are suggested. Call (702)792-9900...

Joe Piscopo is currently traveling throughout the country in the hit Broadway musical Grease, where he stars as disc jockey Vince Fontaine. Sheena Easton also stars as Betty Rizzo, and Sally Struthers as Miss Lynch. Opening night at the Aladdin Theater for the Performing Arts was a tremendous success. We spoke with Piscopo about his love for music and acting. He states: "There's no place like Las Vegas. It's my kind of town. What I'd like to do right now after I finish touring in Grease is a tribute to Frank Sinatra with Vince Fontaine directing. Of course, it would have to be approved by the Sinatra organization. That would be tremendous!" Piscopo says there are talks of a new Broadway production to start up and some new movies in the works. Congratulations Joe, for a job well done...

Almost Heaven is a name which struck my curiosity recently. This beautiful 10,000 square foot bed and breakfast retreat is located on Mt.Charleston and is unique in the Las Vegas area. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, running creeks and pine trees, Almost Heaven is exactly that. In celebration of our anniversary and my wife's birthday, Patricia and I journeyed to another world - that of nature and serenity. Joon Shim, the butler and gourmet chef at Almost Heaven has an extensive culinary background. He is most gracious and has hosted corporate parties as well as singles gatherings. Almost Heaven is set in a Victorian styled home, with a living room which measures 2500 square feet, yet it is a quaint getaway for entertainers, businessmen and couples who appreciate quality experiences.

I would be remiss if I didn't congratulate Tracy Hurst, the proprietor of Almost Heaven for creating such a wonderful environment. There are experiences throughout our lives that we cherish which are priceless. Perhaps Almost Heaven will add to one of your fondest memories. Give them a call at (702)872-0711.

Friends of Distinction are doing exceptionally well on their Friendship Tour '96. Harry Elston, the founder, said he's looking forward to returning to Las Vegas. John Astor-White, president of the Astor Corporation, a management and production company, manages the Friends of Distinction. "We started our Friendship Tour '96 at the Greek Theater then went on to the America West Theater in Phoenix, Arizona. It's very evident that the resurgence of the Friends with such songs as Grazin' in the Grass and Goin' in Circles has been a tremendous success," said Astor-White. John was the co-founder of Earth Wind and Fire with Maurice White. Be on the lookout for the Friends of Distinction in Las Vegas. Their show is quite exciting!

Bits and Pieces

The Las Vegas Speedway, which opened September 13th, should bring in an estimated billion dollars a year as stated by the general manager, Ray Wilkings. Twenty-four race tracks are planned for completion in the next few years with a $22-million industrial park. The inaugural event on Sunday, September 15th was tremendous, with double the expected turn out. Who knew we were all such great racing fans? Obviously not the Nevada Highway Patrol, as traffic was backed up for many, many miles.

Danny Gans, the man referred to as the most incredible impersonator of stars, who's been packing the Broadway Showroom at the Stratosphere, now moves to the Copacabana Room at the Rio. Gans, who originally started out his career in pro baseball, says he's thankful for having the God-given talent to perform to sold out crowds. One of Gans' unique performances is that imitation of Natalie and Nat King Cole singing Unforgettable. Gans combines humor & acting in all of his characters...

A big congratulations goes to Branscombe Richmond - (Bobby Sixkiller in the Renegade TV series). Richmond originally started his career as a singer and debuted his new show at Boulder Station. As for his plans in entertainment, he states, "It's taken some time, but it looks like I will be going into the studio in September. It's just a matter of time before we find the right avenue for our new CD." During his performance at Boulder Station, the Midnight Idol himself, Wayne jumped on station and plucked at his guitar.

Book Nook

Why Children Have A.D.D.

Children who are hyperactive - or sometimes referred to as "problem children" are often times misunderstood by their parents. These problems are often caused by A.D.D - Attention Deficit Disorder - which is, in the majority of cases, overwhelmingly hereditary. It is found in one or more family members in many preceding generations.

There are a number of genetic research centers worldwide which are conducting studies on A.D.D. and its genetic patterns. Dr. Corydon Clark, a physician for many years in Las Vegas, is currently working on several projects, including a book concerning this condition and the medicines used to treat A.D.D. "At this time, as many as three genes have now been identified as related to A.D.D., and several more are being actively investigated." said Dr.Clark.

If you know of anyone who has problems which may be related to A.D.D., such as a compulsive disorder, substance abuse, weight disorders or anxiety disorders, please call the A.D.D Clinic at (702)736-1919 for more information.