Saturday’s Satchel: Bright Lights and Wine

* Las Vegas:  Ever wonder what happens to those neon lights that have helped make this place famous when they dim or die? 

Some 150 of them have been donated or rescued and are resting comfortably in the Neon Boneyard (821 Las Vegas Blvd. N., 702-387-6366), run by the Neon Museum, a non-profit organization there.

The Boneyard is a two-acre home to retired signs from casinos, restaurants and hotels that lit up the Las Vegas Valley between the  1930’s to the 90’s.

If You Go:  Boneyard Tours, from noon to 2 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday and must be arranged in advance.  Tickets: $15.

Note: Some of the old signs have been brought back to life and they are on display on Fremont Street (home to the Freemont Experience lightshow); check the web link above for the history of those signs..

* Tri-Cities, Washington State: If your fall travels might take you to Central Washington State this fall, consider timing it to coincide with the Catch the Crush Wine Festival - Sat. Sept. 24 and Sun, Sept. 25. Wineries from Red Mountain, Columbia Valley and Yakima Valley will be celebrating the fall harvest and the 25th annual seasonal grape crush. Each of the participating wineries will offer celebratory events including winery tours, free-run juice, wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres . Of course there'll be wine for sale. Crush pads will be set up and winemakers will host live grape stomps at 4 p.m. on Saturday; get a team together and sign up! There'll also be live music and entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.visittri-cities.com/  or call 509-965-5201.