New electronic messages have begun rotating on digital marquees along the Las Vegas Strip reminding visitors that tipping street performers is not required. The signs, which display for about 15 seconds at a time, also advise anyone who feels harassed to look for a nearby officer or call 911.
The warnings appear weeks after a fight broke out between two showgirl impersonators and two tourists allegedly over a tipping dispute. Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft would not confirm the brawl was the direct catalyst but said the issue has been a focus for a long time. "One case of a visitor to Southern Nevada being harassed is enough for us to get up and do something about it," Naft said. He added that tourists represent a significant portion of taxable revenue and must be protected, calling the messages "one tool in the toolbox in order to keep our community a friendly and safe place."
Visitor Derek Temple, who was in town from Texas, said he noticed the messages multiple times during his stay. "I do like seeing that. I just think that it is progress for the area and a little bit more consumer protection," Temple said. He added that in 20 years of visits, he has occasionally witnessed aggression from performers and that things have "gotten a little bit more aggressive" in recent years.
Longtime street performer and musician Bruce Callahan said he supports the signs. "If you got to ask for a tip, you suck," Callahan said. "If you're here to perform for these tourists, if they like you, they'll walk up and throw a tip in your jar. If they don't, you can't force them to do anything."
Naft emphasized the messages simply restate existing law and rules already posted throughout the resort corridor. "We've utilized a partnership, what we have with these touchdown structures, to inform both the visiting public and locals here, and even street performers themselves, what the rules and what the laws of the land are," he said.
Sources: 8 News Now
Original reporting: 8 News Now →
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