Newton’s museum
Try as he might, Las Vegas entertainer Wayne Newton just can’t get a chorus of “Danke Schoen” for his plan to build a museum and theater complex and provide commercial tours of his southeast valley ranch.
Most of his upscale neighbors are positively freaked out by the prospect of having dozens of shuttles pull into the walled, 52-acre Casa de Shenandoah each day, never mind Mr. Newton’s willingness to build a dedicated bus entrance away from area homes.
They packed a Tuesday meeting of the Paradise Town Advisory Board to oppose the special-use permit “Mr. Las Vegas” needs to offer the tours of his home, at Pecos and Sunset roads. The plan did not win the board’s recommendation. But the final decision will be made by county commissioners.
Perhaps they’ll have a more reasonable view. Mr. Newton’s estate is a slice of Las Vegas history. He has an opulent, 14,000 square-foot home, 20 vintage cars and more than 50 Arabian horses on site. The property borders two major streets. What’s the problem with letting tourists pay to visit?
Mr. Newton’s proposal does nothing to undermine the quality of life of his neighbors or hurt the value of their luxury homes. The County Commission should let Mr. Newton continue to entertain his fans — at his planned museum and theater and within his own home.