With the M.E.N.U.S. (Mentoring and Educating Nevada’s Upcoming Students) gala on Friday, Oct. 10, at Palms Casino Resort, the Hospitality Charitable Foundation has revealed details including this year’s honoree, participating restaurants and the opening of the silent auction.

This year, HCF will recognize the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority, a governmental instrumentality of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. Established as a strategic extension of the tribe’s vision, SMGHA was created to invest in, own and operate premier gaming and hospitality enterprises beyond the San Manuel Reservation.

Among its first ventures is Palms, acquired by SMGHA in 2021 and reopened on April 27, 2022, as the first Las Vegas casino resort wholly owned and operated by a Native American tribe. SMGHA continues to shape the future of tribal gaming and hospitality with purpose, integrity and a commitment to excellence.

“We are deeply honored to recognize the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority at this year’s M.E.N.U.S. gala,” said Michael Kennedy, president of the Hospitality Charitable Foundation and Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa.

“Their leadership and commitment to building meaningful opportunities in gaming and hospitality reflect the very mission of our organization. By honoring SMGHA, we celebrate not only their impact on our industry, but also the values of cultural preservation, economic growth and mentorship that guide both of our institutions.”

Guests will indulge in tastings from Washing Potato, The Capital Grille, Chyna Club, Netflix Bites, Chica, Crossroads, Delmonico Steakhouse, Kusa Nori, Sambalatte, Primarily Prime Rib, Top of Binion’s Steakhouse, Hugo’s Cellar, Whiskey Licker Up Saloon, Zenshin, Lucini, Send Noodles, Scotch 80 Prime, Turkey & The Wolf, Diner Ross, LPM Restaurant & Bar, STK, Sonoma Cellar, Hakkasan, Beauty & Essex and others.

The popular silent auction is now open at HCFLV.org offering packages that include luxury goods, fine dining experiences and dream vacations. Guests do not need to be present at 2025 M.E.N.U.S. this Friday evening at Palms to bid on or win the silent auction items.

Set against the backdrop of Kaos and Palms’ expansive pool area, 2025 M.E.N.U.S. will deliver its signature indoor-outdoor gala experience with the theme “A Night Within the Stars.” Guests are encouraged to dress “like the stars they are,” in attire inspired by the night sky, from shimmering silvers and deep navy hues to violets and aurora borealis-inspired tones.

In addition to gourmet tastings and premium beverages, the evening will feature live, ambient entertainment by the Bella Electric Strings, providing the perfect backdrop for M.E.N.U.S. guests to socialize, mix and mingle indoors and outdoors at Kaos.

Sponsors of the event include Palms, Sahara Las Vegas, Southern Glazer’s Beverage Company, Breakthru Beverage, Gallo, Johnson Brothers of Nevada, Sysco, MGM Resorts International, Cellar Craft Distributors and dozens of other valued community partners.

Students from HCF’s scholarship program will take on key event-day responsibilities, gaining training while connecting with leaders from Las Vegas’ world-renowned hospitality industry. Proceeds from the gala benefit the foundation’s mission to provide scholarships, mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities to UNLV students pursuing careers in hospitality.

Tickets and sponsorship information are available at HCFLV.org.