Spade to laugh it up at Venetian

Those averse to cowboy hats might prefer a trucker's hat -- David Spade's chapeau of choice in recent stand-up dates.

The dependable comedian -- one who has worked Las Vegas since 1998 -- is likely to have the same passive-aggressive attitude about rodeo week on the Strip as he does about other Vegas targets including CityCenter ("What don't they have enough of? Hotels and shopping? Let's do it!") or the Hard Rock Hotel pool ("500 guidos from New Jersey and one waitress.")

Spade performs at 9 p.m. today and Saturday in the Showroom at The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South. Tickets are $65.75-$105.75, or $175.75 if you want to meet him. Call 414-9000.

-- By MIKE WEATHERFORD