Columnist Muriel Stevens: Stuck in a jam at Venetian

Wednesday, May 1, 2002 | 8:24 a.m.

Noel Coward's ditty about mad dogs and Englishmen being the only ones zany enough to go out in the midday sun could just as well apply to Las Vegans who go to the Strip on a Saturday night.

I was going to Wolfgang Puck's Postrio at The Venetian for a fund-raiser for CineVegas (the city's annual film festival), but I couldn't resist the allure of the Canal Shoppes before going to Postrio in St. Marks Square. I arrived in time (I thought) to visit a few shops along the way, but my attention was diverted by throngs of people crowding the walkways.

Guests were taking advantage of the free strolling entertainment and other performers. One bunch was so enthralled by the musicians I could barely make my way to Canyon Ranch Living Essentials, a must-stop each time I'm at The Venetian. In another area a veritable horde of adults and kids were mesmerized by the entertaining illusions being performed outside Houdini's Magic Shop.

One friendly shopperson came to my rescue by allowing me to walk through her jewelry store and then accompanied me so she could show me a shortcut to the restaurant. Of course, I've got to return to the Canal Shoppes to visit the new stores.

There are so many things to do and see -- gondola rides, living statues and more. Call the 24-hour shopping line for additional information -- 414-4500.

Shop the Canal Shoppes 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

Tag clearance at Nordstrom Rack: Nordstrom Rack in Silverado Ranch Plaza, at 9501 S. Eastern Ave., is having a tag sale Tuesday.

Look for the red dots on selected items for men, women and children and receive an additional 30 to 75 percent off the last-marked price. Check out the savings in the women's shoe section -- gray-tagged shoes, 50-percent off; green-tagged, 35 percent. All additional markdowns are taken at the register.

Rack hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Nordstrom teaser: Nordstrom at Fashion Show mall will not open until fall, yet it's already teasing the fund-raiser that will benefit Nevada Ballet Theatre and Opportunity Village. "Where? When?" Nordstrom is not saying, but it promises a splendid event with "Luscious hors d'oeuvres and libations" and "Fabulous fashions from the finest European and American designer collections."

The card that I received goes on to ask if the reader is "Curious." Of course, I can't wait to receive the next teaser. Maybe then the store will disclose where and when.

Shelter Pointe Hotel and Marina tempts Las Vegans: Shelter Pointe Hotel is offering Las Vegans a special vacation package. Through June 15, Las Vegans can experience a San Diego getaway featuring a one-night stay in a bay- or marina-front room, evening cocktails, free bicycle rentals and a cooked-to-order American breakfast for two, for $149 double occupancy. No word on what additional nights would cost.

Shelter Pointe on Shelter Island features lush gardens, a fitness center overlooking the bay and a sand beach. For more info call (800) 566-2524 or visit the website shelterpointe.com.