Tim Allen looking for laughs

Buzz Lightyear and "Home Improvement" residuals may keep Tim Allen in the chips, but he says there's nothing to replace the thrill of getting a good roll of laughter going with a live audience.

That's why he's spending some of his time before reporting for duty in a new sitcom, "Last Man Standing," doing stand-up at The Venetian.

"I forgot I had that skill. It's like you're training people at a racetrack and realize you still know how to drive a race car really good," he noted.

Allen performs at 9 p.m. today and Saturday at The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South. Tickets are $55.75-$95.75, or $145.75 with a meet-and-greet. Call 414-9000.

-- By MIKE WEATHERFORD