Patent sought for ‘Fabulous Las Vegas Museum’ sign

There's a clue about the new direction for redeveloping entertainer Wayne Newton's Casa de Shenandoah ranch in an application for a new name.

An applicant called Casa de Shenandoah, using the address of a home owned by Texas businessman Lacy Harber, has asked the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to trademark a "Welcome to the Fabulous Las Vegas Museum" sign, essentially a replica of the well-recognized sign at the south Strip, adding the word "museum."

Harber, who said in the past he has spent more than $50 million to buy and improve Newton's ranch for use as a museum, did not return calls seeking comment. An attorney for Newton said he did not apply for the trademark.

During a three-day court hearing three weeks ago, attorneys for Newton contended that Harber and project manager Steve Kennedy were reorienting the focus of the project away from Newton and toward a broad range of Las Vegas show stars. Newton said this violated their museum deal because Newton, a 20 percent owner of the venture along with his wife, Kathleen, opposed the change.

However, Harber, the 70 percent owner, also said he wants to dissolve the business and go in a different direction.

Kennedy owns the remaining 10 percent.

Contact reporter Tim O'Reiley at toreiley@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5290.