'Best band' to perform at benefit

Ring in summer with barbecue and beer

Fresh off its Best Band win at the Taste of Downtown last weekend, Zion Roots, a reggae band from Sacramento, will be the headliner Saturday at "Summer Smash 2006 " at the Krebbs-Peterson House, 500 N. Mountain St.

"Smash" is a benefit for Friends of Special Children and includes beer tasting from Stew's Sportatorium, barbecue, volleyball and Beer Pong tournaments - all for a measly $5. It runs 3-9 p.m. Saturday.

Consider the money going to a good cause as just icing on the cake.

Smoke and music

On a hot Nevada night, step outside your normal routine and check out the Carson Cigar Co. From 7:30-10:30 p.m. every Thursday night throughout the summer the bar is hosting music for all palettes. With an abundance of quality spirits and a comfortable locale, it's what I hope my sitting room looks like someday.

Tonight's performer is the Garret Grows Trio.

In honor of the rodeo

Your last chance is quickly approaching to take in "Bareback" at Harrah's Reno. The late-night adult revue is based around the bumper sticker turned hit single "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy." The show was created by Greg Thompson, one of the most prolific show producers in Nevada, and features a variety of country music hits sung by Tamara Evans and Tim Tenhumberg, paired with seductive dancing.

If you like beautiful people or country music, you might enjoy it. Be warned: The performers are not afraid to involve the audience. The show has been extended twice because of demand, and is scheduled to end July 4.

It's too hot for happy movies

In honor of Jack Black's latest film "Nacho Libre" opening last weekend, why not take a look at Black before Hollywood decided it was in love with him as a leading man?

Check out "High Fidelity," pairing Black with John Cusack, if for nothing more than the rendition of "Let's Get it On."

For the action fans, pick up "The Jackal," and watch Bruce Willis do to Black what some of the country wishes they could with a high-powered cannon.

• Jarid Shipley is a staff writer for the Nevada Appeal. He's filling in while entertainment editor Sam Bauman is on vacation. Contact him at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.