Country Music’s Leading Lady Cancels West Coast Show Dates

SPARKS, Nev. – John Ascuaga’s Nugget regrets to announce that the Loretta Lynn concert scheduled for May 6, 2011, is cancelled. Lynn cancelled her west coast tour dates for medical reasons. Nugget officials hope to rebook the concert in 2012. Ticketholders will receive a full refund, please call 800-843-2427 or 775-356-3300 for details.

Eddie Money Rocks Street Vibrations Spring Rally

Sparks/Reno, NV -- Street Vibrations Spring Rally marks its return to Victorian Square in Sparks, June 3-5 with live entertainment, Live Fast Motorcycle aerial jumps, bike games, competition ride-in shows, poker runs and walks, over 80 vendors, VIP parties for participants and more. Eddie Money headlines the event in the Celebrity Showroom at John Ascuaga’s Nugget on June 3rd.

Street Vibrations Spring Rally is free to the public. Motorcycle participants pay a $40 registration fee ($30 before May 10) that includes VIP parking in prime locations, event t-shirt, ride pin and hog tags, entries in ride-in shows and bike competitions, VIP parties and entries in poker walks and runs. Vendors, bike games and bike competitions are scheduled to start, end or take place on Victorian Square.

“We are thrilled to have Street Vibrations Spring Rally at the Nugget’s front doors on Victorian Square,” said Stephen Ascuaga, COO, John Ascuaga’s Nugget. “Sparks is the perfect venue for this fun event.”

The Nugget also presents music legend Eddie Money in the Celebrity Showroom on Friday, June 3 at 9 p.m. Money burst onto the scene in 1977. His debut album was a double platinum smash, featuring hits like “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise.” Money followed that success with a stream of Top 40 hits like “Think I’m in Love” and “Shakin.” In 1986, he released Can’t Hold Back, which featured a Grammy-Nominated duet with Ronnie Spector, “Take Me Home Tonight.” The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album went platinum and also featured the hit “I Wanna Go Back.”

Money continues to delight new and old fans across the country. He retains his signature style and performs with the same passion today as he did more than 30 years ago. Money’s “blue collar rock” continues to move audiences today. Money’s songs have appeared in dozens of movies and television shows, and have recently been included in hit video games like “Grand Theft Auto” and “Guitar Hero.”

John Ascuaga’s Nugget is offering Street Vibrations Spring Rally room deals in the West Tower starting at $199 for a 2-night package that includes event registration, VIP covered parking, two free cocktails and one $10 match play per stay. Package price is plus taxes and resort fee. Visit janugget.com or call 800-648-1177 for hotel packages and Eddie Money tickets ($42). For more information on Street Vibrations Spring Rally, visit road-shows.com

Treat Mom to the Best Brunch of the Bunch!

Sparks/Reno, NV -- Honoring moms and all they do for us, John Ascuaga’s Nugget presents its most spectacular day of dining ever this Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8. Live music will be performed in Restaurante Orozko and the Rose Ballroom, where the Northern Nevada Affiliate of Susan G. Komen will be handing out free pink carnations from Sparks Florist to all moms and mothers in attendance.

Mother’s Day Brunch will be served in the following Nugget restaurants (prices and hours noted)

• The Rose Ballroom from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. $21.95 per adult, $11.95 per child (ages 5-11). Reservations may be made by calling 775-356-3300.

• The Rotisserie Buffet, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. $21.95 per adult, and $11.95 per child (ages 5-11).

• Restaurante Orozko, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $29.95 per adult, $15.95 per child (ages 5-11).

Among its wide array of upscale dining choices, Brunch in Orozko includes appetizers like Jumbo Prawn Cocktail, Assorted Sushi Rolls, and Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell. Entree choices feature Beef Filet Eggs Benedict, Broiled Pork Chops, “Fruits of the Sea” (Lobster, Shrimp, Scallops) and Grilled Ono with Tropical Salsa. Diners can create their own omelets and build their own waffles and choose from desserts like Pistachio Cones, Trio Chocolate Mousse, Cream Puff Swans, Amoretti Kisses, and Raspberry Mousse Torte.

The Mother’s Day Brunch menu in the Rose Ballroom and the Rotisserie Buffet features six stations. The Appetizer Station starts the temptation with no fewer than thirteen items including Peel and Eat Shrimp, Mediterranean Penne Pasta, Smoked Fish Platter, and Fresh Strawberries and Cream.

One of everyone’s favorite flavors is “Build Your Own” and that’s just what customers will be able to do at the next stop, the Omelet and Waffle station. Diners can have either one – or both -- their way, cooked to order, with a wide selection savory fillings and tasty toppings.

Entrees are always a special part of any Mother’s Day Brunch at the Nugget and this year’s choices are no exception. Brunch-time favorites like Classic Eggs Benedict with velvety Hollandaise Sauce share the spotlight with culinary creations like Grilled Salmon and Citrus Salsa, Seared Beef Tips Hunter Style, and that down-home favorite, Home-made Biscuits with Country Gravy.

The Carving Station offers just-cut goodness in the form of our famous rock-salt roasted Prime Rib served with Aus Jus and Horseradish, a thick slice of Honey-baked Ham, or Roast Turkey.

The grand finale of Mother’s Day Brunch at the Nugget is dessert. Or rather desserts. Here’s just a sinful sampling: Chocolate Decadence, Bailey’s Cheesecake, Cappuccino Mousse in White Chocolate Cups, Éclairs, Lemon Mousse Cones, Tiramisu in Chocolate Cups, Cherries Jubilee, Bananas Foster, Apple, Berry and Cherry Tarts, Blueberry Cobbler...and yes, more!

For additional dining choices, The Steakhouse Grill and Trader Dick’s will also be offering special Mother’s Day dinner menus. Rosie’s Cafe will also be serving a fixed price menu for just $8.95 per person, $6.95 for children which includes a choice of both appetizer and entree, and dessert.

To see the complete menus for each restaurant on Mother’s Day, and restaurant hours, please visit at visit janugget.com. Reservations are available for brunch in the Rose Ballroom and for dinner in Orozko, The Steakhouse Grill, and Trader Dick’s by calling 775-356-3300 or 800-648-1177. Ask about Room and Brunch packages!

Upcoming Entertainment at John Ascuaga’s Nugget

 

The Blasters, Apr 16, Celebrity Showroom, $20, 9 p.m.

 

Keyser Soze, Apr 23, Celebrity Showroom, $15, 9 p.m.

 

Foghat, Apr 30, Celebrity Showroom, $32, 9 p.m.

Loretta Lynn, May 6, Celebrity Showroom, $79, 8 p.m.

The B-52s, May 14, Rose Ballroom, $50 & $55, 9 p.m.

 Nugget Country Crossroads

- Ricky Skaggs, May 27, Celebrity Showroom, $45, 9 p.m.

- Neal McCoy, May 28, Celebrity Showroom, $35, 9 p.m.
- LeAnn Rimes, May 29, Rose Ballroom, $65 & $69, 9 p.m.

 Eddie Money, Jun 3, Celebrity Showroom, $42, 9 p.m.

The Dirty Heads, Jun 24, Celebrity Showroom, $25, 9 p.m.

Bruce Cockburn, Jun 25, Celebrity Showroom, $20, 9 p.m.

Starship with Mickey Thomas, July 2, Celebrity Showroom, $32, 9 p.m. 

 

Dana Carvey, July 14, 15 & 16, Celebrity Showroom, $60, Thu 8 pm, Fri/Sat 9 pm

Asleep at the Wheel, July 29, Celebrity Showroom, $32, 9 pm

The Oak Ridge Boys, Sept. 15, 16 & 17, Celebrity Showroom, $55, 8 pm

Leon Russell, Oct. 1, Celebrity Showroom, $35, 9 p.m.

Steven Wright, Oct 15, Celebrity Showroom, $50, 9 p.m.

 

For tickets, call 800-648-1177, 775-356-3300 or purchase online at janugget.com





 

LeAnn Rimes Headlines Nugget’s “Country Crossroads” Festival

Reno/ Sparks, NV -- Multi-platinum recording artist LeAnn Rimes heads an all-country line-up featuring Ricky Skaggs and Neal McCoy during “Country Crossroads,” a three-day celebration of music and more music on Memorial Day weekend (May 27-29) at John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks.


LeAnn Rimes has sold more than 37 million albums, won two Grammy® Awards, three Academy of Country Music Awards and 12 Billboard Music Awards. Rimes is the youngest recipient of a Grammy® Award, and was also the first country recording artist to win in the “Best New Artist” category. Rimes has placed 42 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, 13 of which are Top-10 hits, and has scored numerous hit singles, including “Can’t Fight the Moonlight” which went #1 in 11 countries, and “How Do I Live,” which is the second longest charting song ever on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

2011 marks the 52nd year since Ricky Skaggs struck his first chords on a mandolin, and this fourteen-time Grammy Award winner continues to be a leader in the recent roots revival in music. With 12 consecutive Grammy-nominated classics behind him, all from his own Skaggs Family Records label, beginning with Bluegrass Rules! (1998) to his first-ever solo record Ricky Skaggs Solo: Songs My Dad Loved (2009) and 2010’s Mosaic (2010), the diverse and masterful tones created by the gifted Skaggs come from a life dedicated to playing music that is both fed by the soul and felt by the heart.

No doubt about it, in the 20 years since he released his first single, Neal McCoy – the one-of-a-kind country singer and consummate live performer – has enjoyed every minute of his long, successful career including hits like “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” and “For A Change. “ Whether he's delivering a stirring version of "America the Beautiful" in front of 65,000 fans in Texas Stadium, performing for the troops, or recording a Top-10 comeback single on his own record label, Neal McCoy can be expected to deliver the unexpected.

• Ricky Skaggs performs Friday, May 27, 9 p.m. in the Celebrity Showroom. Tickets are $45.

• Neal McCoy performs Saturday, May 28, 9 p.m. in the Celebrity Showroom. Tickets are $35.

• LeAnn Rimes performs Saturday, May 29, 9 p.m. in the Rose Ballroom. Tickets are $65 & $69.

The Nugget is also offering a weekend pass for only $129 which includes tickets to each show, prime seating, commemorative lanyard and ticket fees – a savings of $29! Three-night room packages are available and include tickets to each concert, and three nights’ stay in the west hotel tower for just $259 per person, double occupancy.

In addition to the featured shows in the Celebrity Showroom, Country Crossroads will also showcase free concerts by Chuck Mead, the John Dawson Band, and Rustler’s Heat in the Casino Cabaret. Live Country Music will play and DJs will spin country music nightly in Trader Dick’s Lounge. Fans can take free line dancing lessons or participate in country karaoke contests both Saturday and Sunday nights.

For tickets, call 800-648-1177, 356-3300 or visit janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner and show packages are also available.

Rose Ballroom becomes “Love Shack” with B-52s

Reno/Sparks, NV -- After thirty years and sales of over twenty million albums, any mystery about the ongoing appeal of The B-52s is immediately solved when you hear them live cranking up "Rock Lobster," "Planet Claire," "Love Shack" or “Roam.” These and other unforgettable dance-rock tunes start a party every time!


Catch The B-52s, the “World’s Greatest Party Band” in concert at 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 in the Rose Ballroom of John Ascuaga’s Nugget.

Formed on an October night in 1976 at a Chinese restaurant on Athens, Georgia, the band named themselves after Southern slang for exaggerated 'bouffant" hairdos. Cindy Wilson, Kate Pierson, Fred Schneider, Keith Strickland, and Ricky Wilson began weekend road trips to New York City for gigs at the famous CBGB's and a handful of other venues. Before long, their thrift store aesthetic and genre-defying songs were the talk of the post-punk underground. A record deal soon followed and their self-titled debut sold more than 500,000 copies on the strength of their first singles, "Rock Lobster," and "52 Girls."

With the release of their second studio effort, Wild Planet (1980), The B-52s and co-producer Rhett Davies proved their success was no fluke with hits "Private Idaho," "Give Me Back My Man" and "Strobe Light."

At the time of their greatest achievements, however, they suffered their greatest tragedy — the death of guitarist Ricky Wilson from AIDS. "He really had a vision…," said sister Cindy Wilson. "He was one of the strongest elements of The B-52s from the beginning." Ricky Wilson's passing in 1985 came just after the sessions for Bouncing Off The Satellites (1986). The album, dedicated to Wilson, had taken nearly three years to complete but was worth the wait, serving up the fan favorites "Summer of Love" and "Wig."

Mourning the loss of Ricky, the band didn’t work as a group for three years. When they reunited, it became “a really healing thing to get together and be creative again,” Kate said. The band began crafting vocal melodies, lyrics and arrangements for a new album. Cosmic Thing (1989), co-produced by Don Was and Nile Rodgers, proved to be the group’s greatest commercial achievement, propelling it to international stardom.

Cosmic Thing hit #1 on the Billboard chart, sold five million copies and yielded their first-ever Top Ten hits — "Love Shack" and "Roam" and a Top 40 hit with "Deadbeat Club." The B-52s advanced their reputation as the greatest party band on the planet to a whole new generation of music fans, playing to sold-out audiences worldwide on a tour that included an Earth Day gig before nearly 750,000 people in New York’s Central Park.

In 2008 The B-52s released their first new album in 16 years, the aptly titled Funplex. With its primal guitar hooks, driving drums and The B-52s' unmistakable vocal style, Newsweek declared, “Like a sonic shot of vitamin B12, the dance-floor beats, fuzzy guitar riffs and happy, shiny lyrics keep the energy going.”

As The B-52s continue to take their party-music revolution into the 21st century they show no signs of slowing down, serving up their own unique blend of music and showmanship to millions of fans around the world.

See The B-52s in concert on Saturday, May 14 at 9 p.m. in the Rose Ballroom at John Ascuaga’s Nugget. Tickets are $50 and $55 and available by calling 800-648-1177, 356-3300 or by visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner and show packages are also available.

Country Music’s Leading Lady Headlines at the Nugget

Reno/Sparks, NV --  Loretta Lynn, the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” whose American dream took her from the poverty of Butcher Hollow, Kentucky to country music superstardom, performs on Friday May 6, at 8 p.m. in the Celebrity Showroom of John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks.

Lynn began singing seriously in 1961. During one televised talent contest hosted by Buck Owens, she was spotted by Norm Burley who was so impressed he started Zero Records just to record her.

Before long, Loretta and her husband Doo hit the road cross-country, stopping every time they spotted a country radio station to push her first Zero release, “I’m a Honky Tonk Girl.” By the time they reached Nashville, the record was a minor hit and Loretta found work cutting demos.  One of these, “Biggest Fool of All,” caught the ear of Decca Records producer Owen Bradley, producer at the time for Patsy Cline, Bill Anderson, and Webb Pierce.

Working with Bradley in Nashville, Lynn quickly fell under the musical spell of new friend Patsy Cline. Patsy’s distinctive style, marked by dramatic slides, growls and crescendos, was more modern and “pop” sounding, this style was reflected in Loretta’s first top ten hit “Success” in 1962.

Out of these influences, Lynn fashioned her own distinctive style, first perfected in the songs of other writers. In “Wine, Women, and Song,” “Happy Birthday,” and “Blue Kentucky Girl,” each a Top Ten hit in 1964.

Such hits were early hints of Loretta’s undeniably strong female point of view—a perspective unique at the time both to country music specifically and to pop music generally and a trend in her music that became further pronounced as she began to write more of her own songs.

The immense popularity of her songs, including straight-shooting hits like “Your Squaw Is on the Warpath,” “Women of the World (Leave My World Alone),” and “You’re Looking at Country,” culminated in 1972 when Lynn won her second Best Female Vocalist award from the Country Music Association—and when she became the first woman to win the CMA’s most prestigious award, Entertainer of the Year.

Through the next decade, Loretta scored more and more hits—and became more and more famous beyond her country base. In 1976, her autobiography (written with journalist George Vescey) became a New York Times Bestseller; in 1980 the book was made into a hit film starring Sissy Spacek and Tommy Lee Jones. By the time of her last major hit—”I Lie,” in 1982—Lynn could count 52 Top 10 hits and 16 #1’s.

Loretta Lynn spent the ‘90s largely away from the spotlight, caring for her ailing husband Doo and, after he died in 1996, grieving his loss. The music scene has changed considerably in her absence but it’s also a scene she helped create.

See the legendary Loretta Lynn in concert at the Nugget. Tickets are $79, available by calling 800-648-1177, 356-3300 or by visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner and show packages are also available.

Nugget Serving Easter Feasts for Every Bunny!

Reno/Sparks, Nev. -- Easter brunch lovers will find just about every kind of delectable dish from astonishing appetizers to decadent desserts and every thing in between, all served in classic John Ascuaga’s Nugget style. Adding to the festivities on Sunday, April 24 will be live music in the Easter buffets at the Rose Ballroom and Restaurante Orozko along with appearances by the Easter Bunny himself.

“Easter is a family-oriented holiday and for lots of folks, dining at the Easter brunch at the Nugget is a tradition that they observe year after year,” said Dave Brody, VP of Food and Beverage at the Nugget. “We try to add new menu items every year while still serving the traditional favorites that have come to be so closely associated with the holiday.”
   
This year, Easter Sunday Brunch will be served in three locations. the Rose Ballroom (reservations accepted), the Rotisserie Buffet, and Restaurante Orozko. The Nugget’s Trader Dick’s and Rosie’s restaurants will also feature Easter dining specials.

Rotisserie Buffet: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Adults. $21.95, Children. $11.95
Rose Ballroom: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Adults. $21.95, Children: $11.95
Restaurante Orozko. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Adults: $29.95, Children: $15.95
The Children’s price is for age five to 11. Children under five eat free.

The carving station in the Rotisserie and Rose Ballroom will feature the Nugget’s famous rock-salt roasted Prime Rib, Baked Ham, and Leg of Lamb with Mint Jelly.

Hot dishes include Classic Eggs Benedict, Grilled Salmon with Citrus Hollandaise, Biscuits with Country Gravy, Seafood Newburg, and Beef Tips Bourguignon with Buttered Noodles. Made-to-order omelets with a variety of fillings will also be served.

Cold selections include Smoked Fish Platter; Peel & Eat Shrimp; Imported and Domestic Cheeses; Caesar, Ambrosia, Roasted Vegetable and Oriental Seafood salads; and sliced Seasonal Fruit and Berries.

Diners will want to leave room for elegant desserts such as Cherries Jubilee, Bananas Foster Flambé, or Mousses, Fruit Tartlets, and more. Waffles lovers can have it their way, fresh-baked and topped with a selection of delicious toppings.

Restaurante Orozko’s Easter Brunch menu offers starters like Oysters on the Half Shell and Scottish Smoked Salmon. Entrees include Top Sirloin Steak with Wild Mushrooms; Chicken Breast Corden Ble. an.  Mushroom Ravioli with Porcini Cream Sauce. Tempting desserts like Home-made Bread Pudding with Brandy Sauce; Creme Brulee with Pear Essence and Tiramisu round out the perfect meal for a special day.

For complete menus, prices and restaurant hours, please visit janugget.com. For reservations in the Rose Ballroom, Orozko, and Trader Dick’s call 356-3300 or 800-648-1177.

Blues-Based Foghat Rocks Nugget Showroom

Sparks/Reno, NV -- The Celebrity Showroom in John Ascuaga’s Nugget proudly presents Foghat, the British blues band that has been rocking the world for four decades, in a live performance on Saturday, April 30 at 9 p.m.
   
Foghat was formed in the late 1960s by fellow Brits Roger Earl and “Lonesome Dave” Peverett. Signed to Bearsville Records in 1971, the band recorded their first self-titled LP “Foghat” and began touring relentlessly for the next 14 years. Their hard work was rewarded with seven Gold records, one Platinum record "Fool For The City" (1975), and one Double-Platinum record "Foghat Live" (1977).

The "Fool For The City" album contained Foghat’s trademark Top 40 hit song "Slow Ride" and cemented their place as one of the world’s top rock acts. They continued to hit the charts in the 1970’s with singles such as "Fool For The City," "Drivin’ Whee,l" "I Just Wanna Make Love To You," "I’ll Be Standing By," "Stone Blue," "Third Time Lucky" and "Somebody’s Been Sleeping In My Bed"… many of which are still classic rock radio staples.

With the untimely passing of founder Lonesome Dave in February 2000, Foghat faced the tough decision to continue. A new line-up consisting of Earl (drums), Tony Stevens (bass), Bryan Bassett (lead guitar) and Charlie Huhn (rhythm guitar and vocals) toured from 2000 to 2005, when Craig Macgregor rejoined to help launch Foghat’s hard-rocking tradition into the future.

In the last few years, Foghat has been reaching a new generation of fans through video games like Guitar Hero and use of Foghat songs in movies and television.

Foghat has never stopped touring and recording. In 2010 the band released its 21st album called “Last Train Home.” The blues brotherhood of Earl, Bassett, Macgregor and Huhn just love to play and after every show they go out to meet their fans. They still epitomize that classic blues-rock slide guitar sound and that is what Foghat is all about – the music!

Tickets for Foghat are $32 and are available by calling (800) 648-1177, 356-3300 or by visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner and show packages are also available. DO THE NUGGET TONIGHT!

It’s a Blast with The Blasters at the Nugget

Sparks/Reno, NV -- The Blasters bring their powerhouse music to the Celebrity Showroom of John Ascuaga’s Nugget on Saturday, April 16 at 9 p.m.
   
The band was formed in Downey, Calif., by brothers Dave and Phil Alvin, who were joined by fellow-Downeyites, Bill Bateman on drums and John Bazz on bass. The Blasters sound was deeply influenced by blues artists like T-Bone Walker, Marcus Johnson, and Big Joe Turner, often called “The Boss of the Blues.”

The Blasters found enthusiastic audiences for their hard-edged roots rock in the L.A. club scene during the early 80’s when punk music was exploding. During this time, The Blasters often shared the bill with the legendary L.A. punk band X.

But on-stage and on records alike, The Blasters offered something new, a melding of rockabilly, rhythm and blues, country, Cajun and Tex-Mex with a high-octane, guitar-powered delivery.

The band’s first album called American Music, released in 1980, included favorites like “Marie, Marie” and the title track which became the group’s own anthem.  The Blasters, the band’s follow-up included veteran pianist Gene Taylor, baritone saxophonist Steve Berlin and mentor Allen on tenor sax.

The Blasters recorded the last album with its original lineup in 1985. The next year, Dave Alvin left the group to pursue a successful solo career but has returned to jam with the band several times over the years.

Under the leadership of Phil Alvin, guitar and vocals, The Blasters now includes John Bazz on bass, Keith Wyatt on guitar and Jerry Angel on drums -- the same players who performed on the latest Blasters’ studio album, 4-11-44.

Catch The Blasters live (“...because that’s where the real music is” – Phil Alvin) at John Ascuaga’s Nugget on Saturday, April 16. Tickets are $20, available by calling (800) 648-1177, 356-3300 or visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner/show packages are also available.

Orozko Lounge Celebrates Weekends with Tequila Fridays

Sparks/Reno, NV ---Orozko Lounge in John Ascuaga’s Nugget offers the world’s super-premium tequila brands along with delicious tapas, every Friday night from 5 to 8 p.m. – a great way to toast the work week’s end. Half-price shots of select premium tequila will be featured each week in addition to 2-for-1 flavored Magaritas.

Tequila tasters can sample from among famous makers such as Tres Generaciones Anejo, Reposado and Plata; Patron Silver and Anejo Gold; Corralejo Anejo and Reposado, Cabo Wabo Blanco; Herradura Anejo and Reposado; Partida Silver and many others. Tequila Fridays beverage menu also features flavored Margaritas: strawberry, peach, mango, Midori, raspberry, blueberry and pomegranate.

A wide choice of mixed drinks rounds out the selection, including The Basque Flag, the Mexican Hurricane, and Tara’s Triple Platinum Margarita, a limoncello version of Long Island Ice Tea.

Orozko Lounge’s “Over the Top Tapas” menu changes weekly, with offerings like Ahi Poke with Won Ton Chips, Artichoke and Goat Cheese Fritters, Lime Infused Pork with Grilled Sea Scallop, and Oven Roasted Beet Carpaccio salad with Maytag Bleu Cheese.

Those who like to share their love of tequila can sample any of Orozko’s Amigo Specialities, like Beto’s Blue Diablo, 44 ounces of pure pleasure in a Nugget souvenir glass (with two straws!) or the Orozko-Rita. Both drinks feature 1800 brand tequila.

See what else Orozko has going on every Wednesday through Saturday...

Wednesdays   
Every Wednesday night from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. is Nugget Jazz Night featuring nationally-known jazz recording artists in the Orozko Lounge. There is no cover charge for these events. Schedule is available at janugget.com.

Thursdays
Every Thursday night from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. is Wine Tasting Thursdays featuring top wines from all over the world specially paired with delicious tapas created by our world-class culinary team. It’s only $20 per person for this gourmet wine and food experience.

Saturdays
Saturday night is The Ultimate Martini Bar at the Orozko Lounge from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Orozko's famous signature and ultra premium martinis are only $5 each.

For more information on Restaurante Orozko, visit janugget.com, call 800-648-1177 or 775-356-3300.

Fiesta Favorites Return To Rotisserie Buffet April 7

Sparks/Reno, NV -- Savory and spicy Mexican favorites return for a three-month engagement in the Rotisserie Buffet at John Ascuaga’s Nugget starting Thursday, April 7.

Every Thursday through June, both lunch and dinner buffets will feature an array of Mexican specialties, as the Rotisserie becomes veritable fiesta of food that aficionados will not want to miss.

Dinner selections include authentic dishes like Chile Rellenos, Pork Adobado stuffed With Chorizo; Acapulco Chicken; Carne Asada; Beef Tamales; and Chicken Fajitas. Seafood with a south-of-the-border twist includes Tampico Shrimp, Snapper Vera Cruz, and Seafood Ceviche (also available on the lunch menu).

“Our Mexican buffet menu at the Rotisserie will have more choices than ever before,” said Dave Brody, the Nugget’s VP of food and beverage. “The selection is incredible for both lunch and dinner and the food is prepared with the highest quality ingredients and with a flair that our Nugget chefs are known for.”

The menu for lunch offers favorites such as Beef and Chicken Fajitas, Pork Carnitas, Arroz Con Pollo, Fideo, Corn Fiesta Salad and Taco Salad with Shredded Chicken. Both lunch and dinner buffets include the Build Your Own Salad Bar and wide selection of tempting desserts. John’s famous Prime Rib is carved nightly.

The Mexican dinner buffet is served every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. priced at $16.95 per person for adults and $9.95 for children aged 5 to 11. The Mexican lunch buffet is $11.50 per adult and $7.95 for children. Children under 5 dine free. The Rotisserie Buffet is open for lunch/brunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday and also features these specialty nights each week:  Prime Rib & Seafood Night Friday; Best in the West BBQ Night Saturday and Italian Night on Sunday. For more information on all the specialty buffets in the Rotisserie, visit janugget.com, call 800-648-1177 or 775-356-3300.

Bo Bice's Songs Reflect American Values

Sparks/Reno, NV – Bo Bice, who first burst on the national country music scene with his strong showing on American Idol, will perform his repertoire of songs reflecting his love of family, faith, and country with a show on Saturday, April 9 at 9 p.m. in the Celebrity Showroom of John Ascuaga’s Nugget.

An Alabama native, Bice moved with his family to England when he was 14 after his step-father, an executive with Coca-Cola, was transferred there. His mother, a gospel singer, infused in him a love of music at an early age. While attending high school in England, he started his first band, Spinning Jenny.

Bice returned to the U.S. in the fall of 1993, completed his education, and became a professional musician. His career began to take shape when he worked the Southern club circuit in a number of bands, including Blue Suede Nickel, Purge and Sugar Money.

Bice became well known in 2005 when he finished second to Carrie Underwood on American Idol. Bice performed an a cappella version of the song “In A Dream” among his final performances on the program. His first CD following his Idol appearance, The Real Thing, yielded the chart-topping single "Inside Your Heaven" and helped him achieve the first of his two Gold Records.

The album titled 3 was Bice's first experience with the Nashville music community, and all its songs were written or co-written by Bo, who co-produced the album with D. Scott Miller (who's worked on hits by Trace Adkins, Patty Loveless and Asleep at the Wheel, among others).

"I'm really digging the Nashville scene and where it's taken me musically," he said. "It's a little different than what I was doing on previous albums, but Nashville represents many of the things that are important to me now.”

When not on stage, writing songs, or recording in the studio, Bice spends time helping fellow motorcycle enthusiasts raise money for medical research or supporting members of the U.S. military through his live performances or by donating proceeds from his records. "I have a lot of respect for the troops and want to do all I can to create awareness of their needs, and support their families,” he said.

Tickets to see Bo Bice on April 9 are $20 and available by calling (800) 648-1177, 775-356-3300 or by visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” dinner and show packages are available. DO THE NUGGET TONIGHT!

Ukulele Lady Strums Up Tuneful Good Times at the Nugget

Sparks/Reno, NV -- The first lady of ukulele, Victoria Vox, performs her eclectic and upbeat music in the Celebrity Showroom of John Ascuaga’s Nugget on Saturday, March 19 at 8 p.m. Also on the bill is Boulder Acoustic Society. The concert is part of the 3rd Annual Reno-Tahoe UkeFest.

Victoria Vox has been warming the hearts of her audiences across the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. Her songs are honest, moving, but also light-hearted. She earned a degree in songwriting from the Berkeley College of Music and has become known in the ukulele community for her refreshingly modern and rhythmic ukulele technique.

Of her album “Exact Change,” Vintage Guitar magazine said that “an undercurrent of toughness, a beautiful voice, great melodies and loads of charm make unique folk/pop music impossible to resist. The album’s a jewel, indie recording at its best.”

Her songs have been featured on NPR, television and in independent films. Vox is a First Place award winner for her French-language tune, “C’est Noyé” in the International Acoustic Music Awards. She has been included in Relix Magazine and Washington D.C.’s City’s Best lists of artists to watch and is a multi WAMA (Washington D.C. Area Music Award) winner for “Exact Change” and for her work as a Folk-Contemporary vocalist. Currently, Vox is a nominee in the Independent Music Awards for both Adult Contemporary Album of the Year and Album Design. Originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, Vox now lives in Baltimore, Maryland and performs more than 125 shows a year.

Opening for Victoria Vox is Boulder Acoustic Society, a band of four young musicians who take audiences to the edge of American roots music. Americana, Gospel, and the Blues all combine with a muscular indie rock edge for music that is rooted deeply in the past but pointed straight at the future.

The energy these players bring to the music translates into an incredibly varied live performance. One tune may conjure up an apocalyptic hurricane while the next leads you directly through the eye of the storm. With a deep-rooted yet hard edged approach to American music, the Boulder Acoustic Society may just be the future of Americana, but they are certainly its heart and soul.

Don’t miss Victoria Vox and Boulder Acoustic Society in one show on Saturday, March 19 at 8 p.m. in the Celebrity Showroom of the Nugget. Tickets are $20 and are available by calling (800) 648-1177, 356-3300 or visiting janugget.com. “Steppin’ Out” Dinner and show packages are available. For information on the 3rd Annual Reno-Tahoe UkeFest visit playuke.info. DO THE NUGGET TONIGHT!

Grammy-Winning Performer Brings Island Sounds to the Nugget

Sparks/Reno, NV -- Multi-talented Hawaiian musical artist Daniel Ho will display his prowess as a performer on Friday, March 18 in the Celebrity Showroom at John Ascuaga’s Nugget. Ukulele phenom Kris Fuchigami opens the show, part of the 3rd Annual Reno-Tahoe UkeFest.

Ho is world-renowned for his mastery of the slack key guitar -- a style of playing that has become particularly identified with Hawaiian music -- and the ukulele. His 2010 release “Polani” was the first CD of ukulele music ever to win a Grammy nomination.

Ho founded the contemporary jazz group Kilauea in the early 1990s and was the group’s keyboardist. Kilauea recorded six albums, two of them making the Top 10 in Billboard magazine’s smooth jazz category.

In 1998, Ho formed the record label Daniel Ho Creations which has issued over 50 albums of acoustic and Hawaiian-themed music. Ho has won six Grammy Awards as both producer and artist in the category of “Best Hawaiian Music Album” (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2010). Most recently, he teamed with vocalist Tia Carrere for the album “Huana Ke Aloha” which garnered this year’s Grammy in the same category.

Ho has performed throughout the U.S., Japan, and Europe. He has been featured with the Honolulu Symphony; toured as a keyboard player and guitarist for R& B vocalist Peabo Bryson; guest-lectured at Stanford University; and authored instructional books on ‘ukulele and slack key guitar.

Kris Fuchigami is a virtuoso who’s been making audiences sit up and take notice since he was fourteen. His love of the ukulele began when he found a battered Wal-Mart version that his older brother owned. His interest was fanned further by a middle-school teacher who mentioned the name of music legend Jake Shimabukuro to him. Hearing Jake play, Kris was enthralled by his mastery.

When asked why he started playing, Kris’s answer is two words: Jake Shimabukuro.

He dedicated himself to learning the uke. His speed and dexterity soon lead to his winning a prestigious musical scholarship in 2006 at age fifteen, only two years after he first picked up the instrument.

At age twenty-one, Kris has already released two CDs – the latest entitled “Untouchable” -- that showcase his lightning fast playing and a musicality beyond his years. Hear him play tunes like the bluesy-funky “Grandma’s Groove,” or his tender, lyrical version of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”and you’ll know why this young man with the flying fingers is something special.

Don’t miss Daniel Ho and Kris Fuchigami at John Ascuaga’s Nugget for one show Friday, March 18 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20, and are available by calling (800) 648-1177 or 356-3300 and by visiting januggget.com. For information on the 3rd Annual Reno-Tahoe UkeFest visit playuke.info. Do The Nugget Tonight!

It’s WAR at The Nugget, Saturday, March 12

Sparks/Reno, NV --  WAR, the Southern California funk band that scored such mega-hits as “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Spill the Wine,” “Slippin’ Into Darkness,” and “Low Rider” brings its one-of-a-kind music to the Celebrity Showroom in John Ascuaga’s Nugget Casino Resort for one show Saturday, March 12,  at 8 p.m.

The 7-member band, fronted by founding member Lonnie Jordan, was one of the earliest groups in popular music to find global fame as a “cross-over” act.
WAR succeeded by fusing rock, funk, jazz rhythm and blues, reggae and Latin elements into an unmistakable sound all its own. And the multi-ethnic line-up of the ensemble enabled it to transcend and overcome racial and cultural barriers.

Since it began, WAR has been a group of many musical voices and styles coming together with the shared goal of making something different.  It’s in the band’s DNA to this day.

In the studio, WAR often performed lengthy jams from which their hit singles were distilled.  But WAR has been a group of individuals who live for their solos. It’s a group of very talented musicians who work as a group to make the distinctive music that they – and audiences – love to hear. Since it began, WAR has sold more than 50 million records and garnered fans from every generation.

Bringing the sounds of this self-described “Afro-Cuban-rock-jazz-blues band” to millions of fans around the world and now to the Nugget stage are the members of WAR:  Lonnie Jordan, vocals and keyboards; Fernando Harkless on saxophone and flute; Marcos Reyes, percussion; Stuart Ziff on guitar; Sal Rodriquez on drums;  Francisco “Pancho” Tomaselli, on bass guitar; and Mitch Kashmar, harmonica and vocals.

Don’t miss WAR at John Ascuaga’s Nugget for one show Saturday, March 12 at 8 p.m.  Tickets are $35 and are available by calling (800) 648-1177 or 356-3300 and by visiting januggget.com. Dinner and show packages are available. Do The Nugget Tonight!

Celebrating 56 Years in Business on March 17 at John Ascuaga’s Nugget

Sparks/Reno, Nev. – Celebrating 56 years in Sparks – and looking forward to the future. Join the Ascuaga family as they commemorate more than a half-century in business on Thursday, March 17 at 6 p.m. at the Casino Cabaret at John Ascuaga’s Nugget.

Family owned and operated since 1955, John Ascuaga’s Nugget’s twin hotel towers illuminate the Reno-Sparks skyline with 1,600 rooms, eight award-winning restaurants, 110,000 square feet of meeting space, business center, concierge, covered and valet parking, salon/spa, year-round atrium pool, 1,200 slot machines, Bingo, live poker, table games, world class entertainment, airport shuttle service and attentive staff representing dozens of languages. Close to world-class skiing and golf, located along Interstate 80, recent $25 million updates include complete remodels of the East Tower, Executive Convention area and Rotisserie Buffet. From its humble beginnings as a small restaurant, the Nugget and its namesake, John Ascuaga, have grown into Northern Nevada icons during the past 56 years.

The party starts at 6 p.m. in the Casino Cabaret. Mr. Ascuaga will preside over a cake-cutting ceremony along with his daughter Michonne, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, and his son Stephen, Chief Operating Officer. The cake, along with refreshments, will be complimentary for guests. In addition, the Nugget will have a special gaming promotion from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., when 56 lucky players, eight per hour, will win $50 in free slot play. And local favorites Steppen Stonz will play dance music to keep the party going!

In addition, as the anniversary always coincides with St. Patrick’s Day, traditional specials will be available in Rosie’s Café’ and green beer will be offered at the party. All bars will feature $3 Guinness and $3 Irish whiskey, plus the daily Nugget Happy Hour from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. features $1 Coors, Coors Light and Margaritas.

John Ascuaga’s Nugget is a premier casino resort owned and operated by the Ascuaga family in Sparks, Nevada. For more information, call (800) 648-1177 or (775) 356-3300, or visit janugget.com.

Nugget Concert by Legendary Guitarist Supports Music Programs in WCSD

Reno, NV (March 3, 2011) – Pulling from his vast experience on stage and in the recording studio, guitar legend Craig Chaquico will take audiences on a musical journey Friday night at John Ascuaga’s Nugget during a special performance that will benefit music and arts programs in the Washoe County School District.

All proceeds from the concert will benefit the WCSD Fine Arts Department. Music and Arts Director Dave Branson says the money will help purchase instruments and art supplies for students in the District.

“Music and the arts programs are an important part of the WCSD’s curriculum. Through these programs, our children learn to think creatively and innovatively,” Branson said. “This annual benefit concert is important to the health of the fine arts programs in our schools. We want to ensure every single child has the opportunity to try their hand in music and art classes. This concert helps us do that. We are very excited to have Craig Chaquico in town to inspire our young artists and the community.”

The award-winning musician and composer was the lead guitarist with the multi-platinum selling rock band Jefferson Starship in the 1970s and ‘80s and became a solo artist in the early ‘90s.

Information about tickets is available online at www.janugget.com or by calling 356-3300. In addition to the benefit concert on Friday night, Chaquico will play again at the Nugget on Saturday evening.


John Ascuaga’s Nugget and Washoe Music Works Present: Craig Chaquico
A Concert to Benefit the WCSD Fine Arts Department

When: Friday, March 4 at 8 p.m.

Where: John Ascuaga’s Nugget in the Celebrity Showroom

Note: Reno High School music student Nick Sexton will make a special guest artist appearance for one song with Chaquico.

Media Opportunity: Students have been invited to attend Chaquico’s sound check at 3:45 p.m. on Friday afternoon if you would like to film prior to the event.


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About Washoe County School District: The Washoe County School District includes the Reno/Sparks metropolitan area, Incline Village, Gerlach, Empire and Wadsworth, Nevada. The District provides each of its 63,000 students with a superior education in a safe and challenging environment and is committed to graduate every child career and college ready.
For more information visit: www.washoecountyschools.org. Follow us on Twitter at WCSDTweet.

Washoe County School District
425 East Ninth Street
Reno, NV 89512

Funnyman Adam Carolla Plays Two Shows, One Night at John Ascuaga’s Nugget

Sparks/Reno, Nev. – Adam Carolla is a multi-talented social commentator, radio personality, television host, comedian, author and actor. He plays two shows in one night, February 5, in the famous Celebrity Showroom at John Ascuaga’s Nugget.
Carolla currently hosts The Adam Carolla Show, a talk show distributed as a podcast on the ACE Broadcasting Network. He is also known as being the co-host of the radio show Loveline from 1995 to 2005 (and its television incarnation on MTV from 1996 to 2000), as the co-host of the television program The Man Show (1999–2004), and as the co-creator and performer on the television program Crank Yankers (2002–2007).
In November 2010 Carolla released a book entitled In Fifty Years We'll All Be Chicks that debuted on the New York Times Best Seller List for hardcover non-fiction during its first week of release. In 2008 he appeared on the ABC television show Dancing with the Stars.
Adam Carolla plays two shows in one night, February 5, in the Celebrity Showroom at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tickets are just $32 and are available by calling (800) 648-1177 or (775) 356-3300 or by visiting janugget.com. Dinner and show packages are available. “Do the Nugget Tonight!”

Watch the Big Game, Win One of Four Big Screens February 6 at John Ascuaga’s Nugget

Reno/Sparks, Nev. – John Ascuaga’s Nugget will give away four 42” LG HD televisions, one per quarter, during the Big Game on Sunday, February 6.

In order to enter, John’s Club members can swipe their cards at the Quest for Cash promotion kiosk located next to the Main Cashier. Members can swipe once daily beginning at Noon on January 21 through 3 p.m. on February 6. Casino players automatically accumulate one entry for every John’s Club dollar earned from Noon on Jan. 21 through 3 p.m. on Feb. 6.

In order to be eligible to win, players must activate their earned entries on February 6 by swiping their card between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. A winner will be announced each quarter and will also be posted at John’s Club and on all plasma displays casino wide. See John’s Club booth for complete rules and details.

The Nugget will be party central for the Big Game. The Casino Cabaret will offer three huge screens and every TV in Nugget/Lucky’s Sportsbook will be tuned in to the action. Grab a bite to eat from the Gourmet Hot Dog Bar, or choose from a variety of food and drink specials offered throughout the property.

John Ascuaga’s Nugget is a premier casino resort owned and operated by the Ascuaga family in Sparks, Nevada. For more information, call 800-648-1177 or visit janugget.com.