Simpson to perform for benefit

Pop star and newly turned country crooner Jessica Simpson teams up with KTNV-TV, Channel 13, news anchor Nina Radetich to raise money for the Rape Crisis Center tonight during the fifth annual Nina's Night Out.

The concert will be held at 8 p.m. at the Palms' Pearl theater. A VIP reception will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Moon nightclub inside the Palms' Fantasy Tower, giving corporate sponsors the chance to meet Simpson. Individual concert tickets range from $47 to $60.

Over the past four years, the event has raised about $350,000 which has been used to assist local victims of sexual assault, Radetich says. It costs an average of $756 to provide one victim with assistance, including an advocate, replacement clothing, support groups and more.

Part of this year's proceeds will go into the center's building fund for future construction of a treatment center.

It's hard to say just how prevalent rape is in the valley, says Radetich, who serves on the center's board of directors. Last year, the Rape Crisis Center helped 800 victims, but that number doesn't account for rapes that weren't reported.

Hosting an event in a popular resort and featuring an entertainer such as Simpson helps raise awareness about sexual assault in the community, Radetich adds.

"It's becoming easier to talk about," Radetich says. "I think a lot of people aren't willing to admit there is a problem. But when you get somebody like George Maloof -- his hotel is extremely popular, he's supported this event year after year -- that to me sort of sends a message."

Simpson, who often supports children's causes, is happy to lend her name and fame to what she calls a worthy benefit.

"To be involved with the cause of this organization is extremely important. I think this will be more of a passionate performance than most," says Simpson, who recently released "Do You Know," her first country album. "It's important to make a stand for women's rights. If I can get up there and be any inspiration to women, I am blessed to have that opportunity."

Having known women who were raped, Simpson has witnessed the devastation it can cause to a woman's life.

"The great thing about Nina's Night Out is it's a message of prevention," Simpson says. "I think it's important as a woman to lend a hand to other women and just to try and encourage people that everything's going to be OK."

Tickets can be purchased at The Pearl box office, through Ticketmaster at 474-4000, or online at ticketmaster.com. For tickets to the VIP cocktail reception call the Rape Crisis Center at 385-2153.

Contact reporter Sonya Padgett at spadgett@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-4564.