Entertainers take a ‘Bite of Las Vegas’

Friday, Oct. 5, 2001 | 7:44 a.m.

Melissa Etheridge and Cyndi Lauper will be among the entertainers at the Fifth Annual Bite of Las Vegas Saturday, sponsored by KMXB 94.1-FM

But the real stars will be more than 30 restaurants providing samples of their cuisine for hungry fans.

"This is to thank our listeners and to give them a chance to experience over 30 fine restaurants as well as to hear some top names in entertainment," said Rob Benson, promotions and marketing director for the radio station.

Among the restaurants participating in the event are Z'Tejas Grill, Memphis Championship Barbecue, Mediterranean Cafe, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Sonic Drive-in.

Benson said many of the restaurants that have been part of the festival in the past are returning this year. "And we're getting a fair number of new ones."

More than 15,000 people attended the "Bite of Las Vegas" festival last year, according to Duncan Payton, operations manager and program director for KMXB.

In addition to Etheridge and Lauper, other entertainment will include country-music star Shelby Lynne, pop-rock singer Michelle Branch, alternative-rock group Five For Fighting, pop-duo Evan & Jaron and pop singer Uncle Kracker.

Etheridge's latest album is "Skin." The singer/songwriter has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide. Some of her hits include "Bring Me Some Water," "I'm the Only One," "I Want to Come Over" and"Come to My Window."

Lauper, of course, is an icon of the 1980s whose chameleon-like hair has routinely changed from blue to pink to whatever color when mood struck her. She has had a number of hit singles, including "True Colors" and "Girls Just Want to Have Fun."

Her career began in the mid-'70s as a vocalist with various bands in New York City. Most recently she has been the opening act for such stars as Cher.