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Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 23, 2013

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Legendary Vocal Group Boyz II Men Announces Extended Engagement At Mirage – Beginning March 1, 2013, Boyz II Men will continue its singing engagement at The Mirage Hotel & Casino with 78 shows on select weekend dates until December 29, 2013. Catch the performance of baritone Nathan Morris with tenors Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris at the Terry Fator Theatre as the four-time GRAMMY Award-winning R&B vocal group serenades the guests with their classic music.

Donny & Marie Osmond Extend Their Flamingo Las Vegas Shows – Donny & Marie will continue their performances at Flamingo Las Vegas until 2013 giving entertainment for their sold-out audiences. The duo was recently voted by Las Vegas Review-JournalÆs readers which includes ôBest Show,ö ôBest All-Around Performersö and ôBest Singers.ö

Donny explains, ôWhen we first wanted to return to Vegas and were looking for showrooms, I saw the one at the Flamingo and immediately knew that this was it, this was the one. It was traditional Vegas, and it was intimate enough yet big enough to support a larger production show. It was a perfect fit.ö

Academy Of Country Music Announces 2-Night Outdoor Music Festival – The Academy of Country Music is announcing the addition of a 2-night outdoor music festival as part of the THE ACM EXPERIENCE, the country music lifestyle event created for fans during The Week Vegas Goes Country«. The ACM Experience is a fan-focused three-day event including the ACM EXPO, outdoor music festival and much more, to be held April 5-April 7, 2013 at The Orleans Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The events will culminate in the already-announced ACM Fan Jam, a ticketed event headlined by Brad Paisley, on Sunday, April 7, 2013.

Las Vegas Attractions

BellagioÆs Botanical Gardens Chinese New Year Theme Welcomes Year Of The Snake – BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens welcomes the Year of the Snake with vibrant and alluring floral designs created rich in Chinese tradition. Guests are invited to celebrate now until March 3.

The Conservatory uses the early practice of Feng Shui in designing its tranquil temple. Feng Shui is an art that uses surroundings to invite balance and harmony as well as positive life energy. Every garden in the Chinese New Year display includes water which ensures a positive flow of energy. Pine, plum and bamboo û three friends of winter, are also visible in the display which symbolizes perseverance, modesty, and integrity, respectively.

Las Vegas Restaurants And Dining

Public House Las Vegas at Luxor Toasts Wine Down Wednesdays With Half-Priced Wine And Prix Fixe Meals – Public House Las Vegas at Luxor Hotel and Casino has launched Wine Down Wednesdays with specially priced wine and prix-fixe menus every Wednesday night from 7 to 10 p.m.

Super Bowl Las Vegas 2013

Rhumbar Hosts Tailgate Parties And Drink Specials Leading Up To The Big Game – RHUMBAR at The Mirage Hotel & Casino will transform into a lush outdoor tailgate celebration with a series of postseason football parties on the stylish patio during all playoff games, culminating with the Big Game Tailgate Party on Sunday, Feb. 3. During each playoff game, football fans can watch their favorite teams play on multiple flat-screen televisions throughout the patio.

Rockhouse Tackles Open Bar Specials For The Big Game – Rockhouse located inside The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino invites Super Sunday partygoers to enjoy an open bar special for ‘The Big Game Sunday, Feb. 3.

The hot spot will offer fans an all-access premium open bar from kick-off until the final whistle blows, starting at $100.

Mardi Gras Las Vegas 2013

PBR Rock Bar Brings ôBourbon, Beads, And Bullsö Mardi Gras Party To The Strip – PBR Rock Bar & Grill inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will bring a taste of New Orleans to the Strip with its ôBourbon, Beads and Bullsö Mardi Gras celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 12.

In honor of the famed Bourbon Street party, the Strip-side hot spot will offer Fat Tuesday partygoers a bourbon drink, colorful beads and bull rides for $10 all day.

Valentine’s Day Las Vegas 2013

Tacos & Tequila Heats Up ValentineÆs Day With Romantic Menu For Two – In celebration of ValentineÆs Day, Executive Chef Saul Ortiz has created an irresistible prix fixe menu at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) inside Luxor Hotel and Casino. Guests will fall in love with the flavorful menu priced at $58 per couple available exclusively on Thursday, Feb. 14.

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

More Las Vegas News

Maverick Indian Territory Grand Canyon TourMaverick Indian Territory Grand Canyon Tour û This exciting tour begins by flying over the beautiful Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, the world famous Hoover dam and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano. View the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the southwest along the way. Maverick Helicopters will descend and land in the Hualapai Indian Territorym 3,500 feet into the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Maverick Indian Territory Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Where did January go? It seems like New Year’s Eve was just last week, and now we’re already about to stare February squarely in the face. The year’s shortest month brings average high temps in the low 60’s and an average annual rainfall of nearly an inch (our wettest month of the year). I wouldn’t bother packing the umbrella. Your odds of being here when it rains are always slim-to-none. But, I wouldn’t bother with the swimsuit either. Not just quite yet.

Bill’s Gambling Hall – You only have a little over a week to take your last peek into the Barbary Coast (aka Bill’s Gambling Hall for the past few years). February 4, 2013 will see property owner, Caesars Entertainment, closing it, and giving the three-decade old hotel a top-to-bottom makeover including a rooftop pool club that will be thumping all day and all night (from what we understand).

How many more clubs (both dayclubs and nightclubs) can Las Vegas withstand? Well nightclubs is one of the few Vegas subjects I’m not really up on. However, with the game-changing, mega-club Hakkasan opening this year at the MGM Grand, some people knowledgeable about the nightclub industry here claim that the market will reach such saturation that you might actually see a club (or two) close.

Is it just me, or does the name Hakkasan sound like a noise one makes when they get food caught in the wrong tube while they eat?

Interesting Perspective – The U.S. Federal Government borrows about the same amount every single day that it cost to build all of CityCenter. Ouch!

Classroom Gaming Edumacation – A recent article Casino U: A look inside UNLVÆs gaming lab told all about how tomorrow’s gaming (gambling) managers are getting trained for the business. In the past, you’d work on a casino floor, learn the games, learn your people skills, and get some up close and personal experience with your customers. The next generation is learning in classrooms, which includes learning how some of the basic games are played.

Look… if you want to get into casino management, how about you read a “How To Play Craps” book, and go hit the tables a few times?!? Is that too much to ask? I just continue to worry about this ever-growing disconnect between management and the actual business they are running. You can only learn so much in a classroom.

When Golden Gate and (then) Fitzgerald’s owner Derek Stevens decided to sink a pile of cash into remodeling both those properties, he did it because he was downtown on-site on a very regular basis and saw the demand. Not because a bunch of clueless consultants who never get out of a classroom told him to. And, he continues to be on-site making sure the guest experience is a good one. Without ever learning how to in a classroom. Oh my!

Revel A Smoke-Free Failure? – Probably going back nearly a couple of years, we noted that for those of you who prefer smoke-free casinos, you’d want to keep your eye on Atlantic City’s new Revel. They had planned to open and stay completely smoke-free. Oooops.

The property has seriously struggled since opening and while the soft economy and Pennsylvania gaming didn’t help (this was pre-Hurricane Sandy, the storm which hit Atlantic City hard), even pundits who despise smoking are citing the no-smoking property policy as hindering business. It appears that smoke and casino gaming will be intertwined for some time to come.

They’ll Never Learn – An investment firm recently purchased 427 condos at Veer (the two buildings at CityCenter which look like they are about to tip over). They got a nice recession-era bulk price and plan to rent them out for a few years before selling them when the market is better. Sounds like a plan, right? Not quite so fast.

I said something back in 2000 when a condo tower was proposed for the site of the Harley-Davidson Cafe and I’m sticking to it. 1. People don’t want to live on the Las Vegas Strip and 2. For the price of a Strip condo, you could stay in an upscale hotel suite every single night for 2-3 straight years.

Strip condos (excepting Turnberry, which technically isn’t right on The Strip) have simply never been great investments and for some reason people believe that it is just the current market conditions. When things get good again, we’re going to find out that it has been a bad idea for over a decade, will continue to be a bad idea, and I’d be shocked if we see any new condo construction in the next decade.

New Years Resolutions – I’ve made some “minor” resolutions to get more organized, lose some weight, and get on the treadmill. However, unlike in years past, I’m taking a much more sensible approach to it all. Rome wasn’t built in a day!

I’m spending perhaps 15-20 minutes per day simply organizing my life (ranging from all the mess of computer files strewn all over my hard drive to my paper document filing system to projects around the house) and the results are starting to show. Give it a try for yourself. 15 minutes a day goes by before you know it, but do it every day for a month and you see progress.

I also did some math. Did you know that if you reduce your caloric intake just 500 calories per day (provided that your present eating habits have you keeping a stable weight), you’ll lose a pound every week? Believe it or not, 500 calories is pretty easy to ditch. That’s about the amount in a personal bag of potato chips, normal dish of ice cream, or some brands of candy bars. A one-time small sacrifice once a day should add up over the year. I’ll let you know how it goes!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I am frequent traveler to one of the ôfunnestö cities in the world – Las Vegas (3-4 times a year for quite a while) and find very useful your Access Vegas website û Thank you for the good work.

One of my regular visits has been during the opening week of the college basketball tournament now referred to as March Madness opening week. In the past the casinos rolled out a bit of the red carpet with low cost rooms and free expanded sports books to view/bet the games as an extra enticement. It has created a great atmosphere to relieve the glory days of your alma mader and spend some money with your friends from those days.

Last year I noticed for the first time the “money makers” started to think of ways to increase revenue from the event. For example Planet Hollywood started to charge for their extended viewing area on the casino second floor (Mezzanine next to Peepshow). It was something like $68.00/day but included all you could eat and drink from their portable bar/grill.

Imperial Palace (The Quad) removed its free, over-flow, viewing area that used to contain free appetizers. To find a free, extended-viewing area in a Ballroom type setting we had to move off strip to Gold Coast.

Now – This year before even arriving I have noticed room rates tripling during this years time. For example, Flamingo, where we have stayed several times and have enjoyed its location, is above $300.00 a night on a Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday combinations. Harrah’s – Total Rewards has blacked out all room promotions during this time period. I have never seen rates this high ever during a peak period/event.

I would love to hear your insights on if the casinos are truly selling out two months prior to the event or are the “money makers” simply getting greedier.

Regards,

Jeff Carpenter

 

Ted Responds:

Part of this is simply due to the increasing popularity of March Madness here in Las Vegas. Add on to that the many colleges which have spring break around that time and you’ve got some seriously rising demand for our city’s 150,000 hotel rooms. Rooms have really always been about supply and demand. It just so happens that the demand has really started to skyrocket.

Las Vegas has become THE place to be for events like March Madness and the Super Bowl. So, the people partially to blame for the room rates are your fellow visitors. Hotel rooms are no different than airline tickets: The prices swing completely based on demand. The demand is high.

Now, let’s toss in that both major gaming companies (Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts) under extremely heavy debt, and have little incentive to toss out any favors at a time when they aren’t exactly begging for customers. Mandalay Bay’s sportsbook has even been offering bottle service — getting a reserved table for buying a high-priced, complete bottle of liquor — during football games. (We’re unsure if this practice will catch on around the industry).

Now, obviously, we have nothing to do with this. We’re observers, and we generally refuse to shell out unnecessary premiums. But at the end of the day, refusing to pay, and looking for a better deal is the real way to drive the prices down. Which brings me to…

You Can Still Get Reasonable Rooms Even During March Madness – All of the properties you mentioned plus the rewards club were all Caesars Entertainment (formerly Harrah’s company). Pssssst… I’ve got a little secret for you: They aren’t the only game in town! You are not married to them! Just because you are part of any “loyalty program” doesn’t make it a one-way street.

I did a search for March 21-24 through our booking box in this newsletter and found the Flamingo at $261 a night. Still spendy, but certainly not the $300+ they wanted to charge you! (So much for loyalty).

Also, I found some pretty reasonable rates considering it is the opening weekend of March Madness:

  • Under $60: El Cortez, Palace Station, Clarion (just a few steps off The Strip, aáblock north of Encore)
  • Under $90: Stratosphere (all new rooms), Riviera, Plaza (all new rooms), Circus Circus, more…
  • Under $120: The D (all new rooms), Four Queens, Tuscany (all-suite, 1/2 mile from Strip), more
  • Under $150: Golden Nugget (pride of downtown), Tropicana (all new rooms), Luxor, LVH, plenty more…
  • Under $180: Trump (nice), Westin (nice), MGM, Monte Carlo, plenty more…

While these certainly aren’t like the mid-week rates you’ll find in the middle of summer, they aren’t bad for a super-peak time.

I hate to beat a dead horse, but if all of our readers would be kind enough take 10 seconds out of your life to use our booking box toward the top of this page (or at AccessVegas.com) and see if our hotel partner can do better than your “loyalty program” (or the site you usually book at), we’d both perhaps be better off for it.

There is nothing “loyal” about $300+ a night rates at The Flamingo, and booking through our site helps support this newsletter. Win-win for everybody!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 16, 2013

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Don Rickles Headlines Las Vegas For Record-Smashing 54th Straight Year – One of the most established names in Hollywood and Las Vegas û internationally renowned comedian, actor and entertainer Don Rickles û has signed for a sixth consecutive year at The Orleans Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Rickles will make two weekend appearances at The Orleans in 2013: April 13-14 and September 28-29.

Rickles will be headlining in the Entertainment Capital of the World for the 54th consecutive year, an all-time Las Vegas record.

Pawn Stars

Pawn Stars Experts Featuring Autograph Sessions At Gold & Silver Pawn In 2013 – Pawn Stars along with the Gold & Silver Pawn team announced the autograph sessions of the star of the show as well as the experts that will be held this 2013 as filming allows.

Owner of Gold & Silver Pawn and star of Pawn Stars Rick Harrison said, “It took some serious planning and trial runs but we think we now have a system that works to allow more fans to meet us and the experts on the show. That was the one piece missing to a great experience when visiting Gold & Silver Pawn.” Located at 713 South Las Vegas Blvd., the small store is visited with over 4,000 people every day and film taking also takes place starting at 7 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. every weekday year-round. The busy schedule and space are the challenges that one team at Gold & Silver Pawn have overcome.

Las Vegas Attractions

2012 – Las Vegas – 2013

Valentine’s Day Las Vegas 2013

Romance Fills The Forum Shops Las Vegas With TreviÆs æThatÆs AmoreÆ – To celebrate the day of romance, Chef Peter Scaturro has created a special æThatÆs AmoreÆ couples menu for lovers to enjoy on Thursday, Feb. 14, at Trevi inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

Priced at $70 per couple, the prix fixe menu will feature a light starter, the option to choose between three classic Italian entrÚes and a delectable dessert to share. Guests will have the choice of pairing their meal with TreviÆs signature ValentineÆs Day cocktail, Lotion Potion Number 9, priced at $9. Other pairing options include a bottle of 14 Hands Chardonnay or 14 Hands Cabernet, priced at $30 per bottle.

Las Vegas Restaurants And Dining

Castle Walk Food Court At Excalibur Hotel & Casino Celebrates Grand Opening With Former Mayor, Oscar Goodman – Castle Walk Food Court at Excalibur Hotel & Casino kicked off its grand opening in style with Former Mayor, Oscar Goodman, and dozens of Strip entertainers on Tuesday morning. Accompanied by two stunning showgirls, Goodman congratulated his long-time friend, Lincoln Spoor, CEO of Feel Good Brands, LLC, for developing the innovative new food court which brings the first Cinnabon, Hot Dog on a Stick, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Pick Up Stix and SchlotzskyÆs to the Las Vegas Strip.

Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill At Caesars Palace And Gordon Ramsay BurGR At Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Now Open For Lunch And Dinner – Chef Gordon Ramsay makes history in Las Vegas opening two different restaurants in two different locations within a week of each other on the famed Las Vegas Strip û the celebrated chef has opened three different restaurants in three locations all in one year.

Following the highly successful opening of Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas in May, the Dec. 18 opening of Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace and Dec. 22 opening of Gordon Ramsay BurGR at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino marks three Gordon Ramsay restaurants to open in Las Vegas in less than a year, expanding the relationship with Caesars Entertainment Corp. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, the neighborhood restaurant at Caesars Palace conceptualized by the award-winning chef offers a lively English pub experience, while Gordon Ramsay BurGR brings Planet Hollywood the first gourmet burger concept from the celebrated chef.

Las Vegas Hotels

Las Vegas Sports, Sportsbook, And The Superbowl

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

More Las Vegas News

Take The Aria ôIndoor Hikeö With Steve ôRocketö Rosen, Fitness Guru – With health and wellness being an important topic for many in 2013, Rocket offers some insight on the Indoor Hike at The Spa at ARIA and how to stay committed to your New Year’s resolutions, even while on vacation:

What can guests expect during the Indoor Hike at ARIA? Once weÆve done some light stretching, we carry our yoga mats over the shoulder and begin to tour the beautiful ARIA resort. At various points of interest, including the Fine Art Collection, we conduct a brief orientation of the location followed by a few exercises. For example, at Jenny HolzerÆs ôVegas,ö weÆll do lunges, squats and step-ups on the nearby benches. The Hike then makes its way through the resort including a stop outside to learn about the amazing architecture and to climb stairs, of course. The entire experience consists of a great overall workout and can be modified for any fitness level.

New Year, New You! – Just because youÆre in Las Vegas on vacation doesnÆt mean you canÆt keep your New YearsÆ resolution of getting fit and staying in shape. Maintain personal goals while easing the guilt from that late-night cocktail by experiencing a unique workout guaranteed to help you break a sweat.

  • The Spa at The Mirage offers a one-of-a-kind experience, Yoga Among the Dolphins, taking place in a serene, underwater viewing area within Siegfried & RoyÆs Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. The underwater location features multiple windows, providing an intimate opportunity to view the resortÆs family of bottlenose dolphins while flowing from pose to pose. The instructor-led class is open to the public and can be customized to accommodate all skill levels. Cost: $50 Time Length: 60 minutes; Friday û Sunday at 8:30 a.m. Reservations/Information: (702) 791-7472
  • Spa & Salon Bellagio offers its very own version of Boot Camp that is sure to leave you sweating. Using FitDeck exercise cards, instructors of Bellagio Boot Camp take you through an exercise circuit that is different with every class. Combining cardiovascular and resistance training methods, your entire body will be challenged. DonÆt worry; you can recuperate and restore within the award-winning Spa Bellagio afterwards. Cost: $40 per person Time Length: 50 minutes; daily at 9 a.m. Reservations/Information: (702) 693-7472
  • Take part in an insightful tour of CityCenterÆs Fine Art Collection with The Spa & Salon at ARIAÆs Indoor Hike (featured elsewhere in this issue), which takes participants through some of the most scenic and heart-rate-raising areas of the expansive CityCenter campus. This heart-pumping workout focuses on the whole body as guests perform yoga and various exercises along the way. Cost: $50 Time Length: 60 minutes; as reserved Reservations/Information: (702) 590-9600

 

Maverick Grand Canyon Western Territory Tour By PlaneMaverick Grand Canyon Western Territory Tour By Plane û Experience the thrill of the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, on a flight with Maverick Airlines. Fly in Maverick style on a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft to Grand Canyon West as you enjoy spectacular views along Eagle Point.

At the Indian Village you will receive a brief introduction to the Hualapai Indian legends and culture, and then proceed to Guano Point, where you’ll observe a breathtaking view of the canyon. Optional Activity: Don’t miss out on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, the new glass bridge attraction suspended more than 4,000 feet above the Colorado River on the very edge of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim. A meal will be served while you sit back and admire the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon as you conclude your journey. Operator Maverick Airlines a division of the Maverick Aviation Group.

Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Western Territory Tour By Plane Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Frankie Moreno by Terri DÆRichards

Entertainer Frankie Moreno – A Steady Momentum Of Talent – Welcome to FrankieÆs house! Kick back, relax, have a drink and rock the experience where old Vegas Rat Pack retro collides with modern swagger style. Voted Best Strip Headliner by Las Vegas Weekly and Best All Around Performer by the Las Vegas Review Journal, this singer-songwriter earns his titles nightly, demonstrating all-around musical virtuosity in an accessible personality package — one moment busting a Jerry Lee Lewis like move on the piano, the next moment busting out a bottle of Crown Royal to pour shots for any audience members who approach the stage with an empty glass.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Well, we just went through probably the worst/coldest 5 days in a row that I’ve ever experienced here in my nearly 20 years. Freezing temps would hit early evening and not let up until mid-morning. Pipes were bursting all over the valley because we do not know what a “Hard Freeze Warming” is. I left my water dripping and ran space heaters in the more vulnerable parts of my place. (Fortunately, my few outdoor pipes are already permanently wrapped).

When it gets this cold, locals stay home. A 1:00 a.m. grocery run on Sunday night found the streets unusually deserted. Staring over at The Strip on my way home — all lit up in its usual glorious glow — it was deceptively warm looking. But hey, at least for once I didn’t have to worry about all my food melting before I got it home.

The good news is, that little weather glitch is in the rearview mirror and the 10 day forecast is showing seasonal temperatures in the 60’s as far as the eye can see! Speaking of…

2012 Hottest On Record – Las Vegas set a new record for hottest year, but that factoid is a little bit deceiving. We didn’t have any days over 114 F and only a smattering of days above 110. Averages are determined by temperature readings 24 hours a day, seven days a week and Las Vegas’ true “average” temperature is just slightly above 70 degrees. Simply put, our overnight lows have continued to climb slowly but surely as more and more of the area has been developed, covering the rocky desert soil with heat-trapping asphalt and concrete.

I can’t say that I view this as such a terrible thing. Summer nights are a bit toasty, but the post-sundown temperatures during the rest of the year stay in a more comfortable range. Interestingly enough, the daytime highs haven’t really been increasing at all. Hot days and warm nights (or what we call spring and fall)… I’m in!

MGM Resorts To Spruce Up Rooms At Las Vegas Hotels – Hot on the heels of the rooms renovation at MGM Grand, the parent company MGM Resorts has announced that they plane to refurbish the rooms at the rest of their Las Vegas properties including Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Monte Carlo, and even Circus Circus. Yes, even the “lowly” Circus Circus!

For those of you who keep thinking you hear rumors of the demise or closure of Circus… probably never going to happen. From what we understand, the venerable hotel (we can’t really call it a resort) consistently earns money year after year. Every time we poke our head in, it seems like the parking garage is pretty full and the property is filled with foot-traffic. In related news…

Just Not The Rooms – Lost in the renaming and remodeling of the Imperial Palace (now officially The Quad) is the news that the hotel rooms apparently aren’t part of this facelift. Property owner Caesars Entertainment President Gary Loveman did note last year that room remodels to various properties will be on tap, but which ones and when were not specified. Looks like MGM Resorts is eager to beat them to the punch.

This Isn’t The Movie Version – Rock Of Ages has roared back into Las Vegas with a planned long-term residency at The Venetian. Yes, I say “back” into town as the show which spawned the Tom Cruise movie was tested here for a couple weeks some six years ago before heading to New York.

As the movie was an adaption of the stage show, it is very important to note that they are not identical. The show version contains some alternate music and is geared to be an audience-participation party. For those of us who lived the 80’s (high school and college for me), the music obviously has a close tie to our youth. But the good time vibe is ageless! Rock Of Ages tickets are available directly by clicking the graphic near the top of our our left sidebar.

Restaurant Week(s) In 2013! – We’ll have more info as it gets closer, but Restaurant Week will return twice this year. Taking part in Las Vegas Restaurant Week is simple. Diners can visit any participating restaurant during the specified dates and enjoy a multi-course, prix fixe menu. Each restaurant will create their own delicious menu offering at price points ranging from $20.13 to $50.13, with a fixed portion of the proceeds benefiting Three Square and the fight against hunger in Southern Nevada. Last year, you helped raise more than $610,000!

Hope you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Hoover Dam Inside Out – The chief whiz of human invention around here was built long before anybody had even imagined the fabled Strip and was named for a sober President who probably never shook hands with a one-armed bandit. Herbert Hoover was President when construction began on the legendary dam that now bears his name. Note: Shot before the current drought when the lake was quite full.
  • Rock Candy Sticky Sweet performs at the Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas – Get your dose of downtown! Clips from two performances of Rock Candy Sticky Sweet on Fremont Street in Las Vegas. Includes “I Love Rock n Roll”, We’re Not Gonna Take It”, “Just Like Paradise”, “Nuthin’ But a Good Time”, “Cult of Personality”, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” and “Wanted Dead or Alive”.
  • Las Vegas Strip street drive from 1988 – Taped from a car window in real time on January 11, 1988. Starting from the Landmark casino on Convention Center drive, turning unto Paradise going north to Sahara avenue, then heading south on the Las Vegas Strip, u-turn at the Hacienda casino then going north on the Strip to just past Sahara. See numerous hotels which are no longer with us.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Love your newsletter! I noted your comments regarding the Themed Hotels making the city popular. My sentiments exactly! Been visiting Vegas since 1996 (from the U.K.) often more than once a year (next visit in April).

We have seen Vegas change over the years, some great improvements (The Venetian, Paris, Bellagio, Caesar’s expansion to name a few); others not so. The City Center (for us) has not only spoiled the Vegas skyline but looks out of place on the strip and as previously mentioned, is too far off the strip to entice us inside (we will go and see the new Cirque show though).

With Imperial Palace changing to Quad and the planned project where Bill’s Gambling Hall is now, in the pipeline, we hope they don’t change Vegas too much. The ‘special’ hotels are what make Vegas what it is and make us yearn to visit year after year.

Greetings to you and your staff!

Marlene

 

Ted Responds:

I couldn’t agree with you more. I’ve kept pretty mum on it as some people adore CityCenter (especially those who stay there, they just love it). However, in a skyline etched with so many desert-friendly colors ranging from the chocolate brown of Wynn and Encore to the gleaming gold of Mandalay Bay with plenty of other warm-looking structures up and down The Strip, CityCenter is the icy blue monolith that just feels out-of-place.

Fortunately, the Imperial Place and Bill’s makeovers aren’t bringing severe changes to the structures. We’ve featured some of the renderings in past issues, and they appear to be staying with a pretty neutral pallate.

The de-theming of hotels is going too far. What comes next? Do the bean counters take out the famed Bellagio fountains so they can put a strip-side shopping mall in? (I shouldn’t even mutter those words. I can see them right now sitting there and going “call our architects…”).

We’re obviously a few years away from any new hotel construction (and still hoping that the Fontainebleau eyesore gets torn down, although highly unlikely because it is probably 70% finished). Having said that, the next time someone gets the bright idea to build a grand new property on our famed Las Vegas Strip, I hope they embrace the kinds of themes and colors which made our little slice of mountain-framed desert world-famous.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 09, 2013

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Vegas’ Best Party Rock Of Ages Celebrates Opening Night At The Venetian – January 5, 2013, the high-octane musical Rock Of Ages opened at The Venetian Las Vegas to an enthusiastic, full house at the Rock of Ages Theatre. The production is a hilarious, feel-good love story that celebrates the great rock songs of the ‘80s including “Here I Go Again,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “We Built This City,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” and more.

The high-energy performance had the crowd rockin’ out all night long with the audience waving hundreds of LED lighters in the air during the heartfelt ballads and singing and dancing on their feet during the finale. Director Kristin Hanggi and Choreographer Kelly Devine were also in the theater supporting the cast and at curtain call they joined the cast on stage to celebrate opening night. The talented cast includes Kyle Lowder as Stacee Jaxx, Carrie St. Louis as Sherrie, Justin Mortelliti as Drew, Mark Shunock as Lonny, Troy Burgess as Dennis, and Robert Torti as Hertz.

Celebrating The Holidays and 2012 In Las Vegas

Las Vegas Restaurants And Dining

Rice & Company Debuts Thunder Roll In Honor Of Australia Day – Rice & Company at Luxor Hotel and Casino celebrates Australia Day on Saturday, Jan. 26 with the debut of the Thunder Roll, a sushi roll created in honor of the handsome blokes of Australia’s Thunder From Down Under at Excalibur Hotel & Casino.

Available throughout the month of January, the tantalizing Thunder Roll, priced at $18, is made with a delicious blend of soft shell crab, tuna, avocado and cucumber, wrapped in seaweed and topped with spicy mayo and kabayaki sauce. In honor of Australia Day, the restaurant will offer the celebratory roll half-off at the special price of $9 on Saturday, Jan. 26.

Inglenook And Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten Kick Off Bellagio’s 2013 Epicurean Epicenter Series – Heralded as the home of a wide range of award-winning dining experiences including two AAA Five Diamond restaurants, Julian Serrano’s Picasso and Le Cirque from the renowned Maccioni family, Bellagio’s 2013 Epicurean Epicenter series continues its tradition of innovative and immersive experiences. On Saturday, Jan. 26, guests can taste five wines from the legendary Inglenook estate, paired with the critically acclaimed cuisine of James Beard award-winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten of Bellagio’s Prime Steakhouse.

Las Vegas Sports And Sportsbook

Se±or Frog’s Kicks Off Football Specials For Playoffs And The Big Game – Se±or Frog’s Las Vegas at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino will host a football fiesta for playoffs from Saturday, Jan. 5 through Sunday, Jan. 20 and for Super Sunday on Feb. 3.

Football fanatics will touch down at the famous party bar with big game eats and drinks while the big games play on all of the restaurant’s high-definition televisions and huge projection screens. Sports fans will have guaranteed seating by purchasing any of the restaurant’s signature football packages: The Rookie, The Veteran or The MVP.

Drinking, Gambling, And Partying in Las Vegas

Las Vegas’ Ultra Dive Bar Rockhouse Moves From Imperial Palace To Venetian – This late January, the Sin City’s iconic party bar will bring back the same let-loose attitude at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino. The new 9,000-square-foot location can be directly accessed from Las Vegas Boulevard providing convenience for hotels guests nearby and for those passing by. The original Rockhouse becomes the most famous party spots in the Las Vegas Strip.

Valentine’s Day Las Vegas 2013

Cabo Wabo Cantina Hosts ‘Love Stinks, Let’s Drink’ Anti-Valentine’s Party – Amor is a bore, so the drinks will pour at Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino with a “Love Stinks, Let’s Drink” party on Thursday, Feb. 14.

The hard-rockin’ cantina will celebrate the independent and fabulous life with Sangarita, a combination of margarita and sangria, for $10 a glass and $30 per pitcher. Partygoers may toast to lovers past with $5 anti-Valentine’s shots including the Ex-Boyfriend, a stout blend of Patr¾n XO CafÚ and Bailey’s Irish Cream; and the Ex-Girlfriend, a hard-hitting mix of tequila and Tabasco.

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

Las Vegas Attractions

Downtown / Fremont Street Experience

Miss America

More Las Vegas News

Maverick Helicopter Combo Adventure with River Rafting TourMaverick Helicopter Combo Adventure with River Rafting Tour – One of the most amazing ways to experience the Grand Canyon is with a landing tour and the added bonus of river rafting through the scenic Black Canyon on the Colorado River. You will enjoy a helicopter adventure through the Grand Canyon and see awe-inspiring scenery at one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Following the helicopter tour through the Grand Canyon, you will land at the Boulder City Airport and meet up with the rafting crew. Your fully motorized and narrated river rafting voyage will depart from the base of Hoover Dam and float 12 miles down the grand Colorado River. The Colorado River rafting tour includes several stops along the river and lunch served upon reaching Willow Beach, Arizona. The rafting crew will transport you to your hotel at the conclusion of the tour.

Click To Book Maverick Helicopter Combo Adventure with River Rafting Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Anthony Cools by Sarah Jane Woodall

Anthony Cools – Good, clean dirty fun like nothing you’ve ever seen – Hypnotism – it’s not just for quitting smoking anymore! Long recognized as an effective way to tap into the human subconscious for practical reasons, the art of hypnotism has lately been co-opted by pranksters. Some devilish genius figured out that it’s just as easy (and much more fun) to hypnotize people for impractical reasons – and the next thing you know, a cottage industry was born. These days, there are several comedy hypnotists playing their trade on the Vegas Strip…the best-known of which is Anthony Cools.

What sets Cools apart from the competition? His rakishly smarmy charm, of course! Other comedy hypnotists might be more family-friendly or wholesome in appearance, but…come on! Did you really come to Vegas to see family friendly?! I didn’t think so!

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Happy New Year to all, and we hope that 2013 turns out to be a great (and lucky) year for each and all. It is turning out to be a colder-than-usual immersion for us. Midnight temps on New Years Eve were just above freezing, and we’re looking at below-freezing overnight temps now through Tuesday night. Not funny.

What A Bang! – New Years Eve was still more spectacular than ever. This year’s show featured over 8 minutes of fireworks and revelers enjoyed roaming over four miles of The Strip (it was closed to traffic) from around 6 PM until well past midnight.

To give you a comparison of the enormity of our celebration, we’ve created a Google Map of New York City with the length of The Strip superimposed on New York with Times Square in the middle. Those of you who took our advice and tuned into 8NewsNow.com we’re able to see their entire 2.5 hours show streaming live and culminating with the fireworks. For those who missed it, the fireworks-only portion of the broadcast is available online: Las Vegas New Years 2013 Fireworks

A New Record! – As we’ve told you all year, we’ve been staying pretty close to being on track to break the 40 million mark in visitors this year. What we know is that we’re going to beak the 2007 “boom era” record of 39.2 million. Estimates have us brushing up against the 40 million mark, but we won’t officially know until a couple months into the year once all the numbers are finally crunched. Having said that…

A Soft 2013 – Airline capacity into McCarran is going to be off a couple of percentage points in 2013, which means no relief on the airfare front. This will obviously affect some of you more than others. It will keep hotel rates pretty steady, which means those spending longer stretches of time here can amortize the airfare over more days. However, if you are the average 3 day visitor, you’ll be dinged harder as the cost to get here for those 3 days is likely to rise.

We continue to suggest visiting a little less often and staying longer. You won’t feel as rushed (trying to cram so much into so little time), you can take that tour or day trip and see some of our spectacular high desert and grand parks, and have time to get out of the “things we do every visit” rut.

Return Of The $8 Dinner Buffet – About a year before it closed, The Sahara shut down their buffet. It wasn’t anything special, but for $8 (if memory serves me correct), it was OK grub. That was the end of the cheap Las Vegas dinner buffet. Until now.

One mile west of The Sahara, Palace Station has brought back the $8 (actually $7.99 plus tax with players card) all-you-can-eat dinner buffet. We’ve had it and while certainly not that new fancy spread at Caesars, it is WELL worth the money. Heads above Circus Circus (located in the same general neighborhood and pretty much twice the price). 

Fresh salads and fruits, carving station, hamburgers and pasta (including seafood pasta) prepped to order, grilled and fried fish, decent deserts, all-you-can-drink non-alcoholic drinks. You know, the standard Vegas buffet drill.

So, if you have some wheels while you are in town and you like bargains, check it out. If you are cabbing it downtown and back for a night, it is a very quick detour to grab dinner and then catch another cab for the rest of your ride to Fremont Street.

Stadium Updates – Every few months, we keep you up on the various stadium/arena proposals which keep floating around. Here’s the latest:

  • UNLV – This one has turned into the front-runner and is garnering a lot of community support. An approximately 60,000 seat stadium would host UNLV football, major sporting events which we’re not currently in the running for (no venue that size in town), and additionally concerts and similar.
  • South Strip – The proposal to build a stadium south of the M Resort seems dead. Long story and lots of finger pointing and really not worth going into.
  • Downtown – No new news although some of the long time movers-and-shakers still would like to place a basketball/hockey arena downtown.

    I’m really dubious of having a Las Vegas NBA team. Most people living here come from elsewhere and already have strong ties to their “home” team. The Los Angeles Lakers have always had a very strong following in Las Vegas. Sure, the arena would fill up with people from out-of-town visiting here to root for their team (which would be good for tourism), but how well is a team going to do that has to play in front of a mixed-allegiance crowd every single home game? Especially in the NBA where home court advantage is huge.

Free Wi-Fi At Most MGM Properties! – Well… someone woke up and figured it is 2013 and more and more of us are connected everywhere we go. Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage have rolled out free wi-fi in their public areas (casino, restaurants, pool, etc.) Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor and Excalibur will be on-board around the time of Spring Break/March Madness. 

Springtime is set to also bring free wi-fi to all the rooms at these resorts. They aren’t promising blazing fast speed for free, but if you really want to sit by the pool or in your room and watch Netflix on your tablet, you’ll be able to purchase more speed as an add-on. Prices were not yet available.

Help Us Help You – One of the ways that we’ve been able to keep this newsletter complimentary despite the tremendous amount of research to put it together is because our hotel partner i4Vegas has been a consistent partner. When you book through the hotel links or booking box in this newsletter or at AccessVegas.com, we get the credit.

Unfortunately, despite our ever increasing readership, the number of readers booking with us has started to decline. To those that have and continue to do so, we thank you. You are the ones responsible for assuring we have the revenue to do what we do and can keep this newsletter significantly more ad-free than most online travel information.

For those of you that don’t, we’re asking that you take just a few seconds out of your life next time you book a Vegas room and plug in your dates and see what our partner can do for you.

“But Ted, XYZ hotel sends me really good deals”. Unless that deal is FREE (and more power to you if it is), you might be surprised just how good their deal ISN’T. And… how much more flexibility you have in your price range by seeing a quick comparison of everything that is available.

Our hotel partner is Vegas-centric and you’re not going to find them on the major comparison websites. Vegas is what they’ve been doing for years and years, and they’ve developed a special relationship with our hotels, buying rooms in volume and passing the savings on to you. (The hotels are happy because they don’t have to market or sell the room). 

If every single reader (that means YOU… not the next guy) would be kind enough to just take a few seconds to compare our rates and book with our hotel partner (through our booking box or links so we get credit) if we’re comparable, we’ll be able to keep the information flowing in its present form. And, you just might find some hotel deals you didn’t know about!

Members Mania Ooops – We’re not exactly sure how we pulled this one off, but last issue I did a full, special, year-end section of reader feedback and well-wishes. Which still appears in my copy on my computer, but for some reason vanished as the file was passed along to be placed online. If at first, you don’t succeed… We’re reposting it all in its entirety this week. (I can see it now: Sherlock Holmes in the case of the Missing Letters).

Hope that you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

As the year ends, I wanted to post a sampling of the great thoughts and wishes that were sent our way. We appreciate it, they mean much to us, and it is always exciting to think that we have so many amazing readers from around the globe!

Having been to Las Vegas 10 times in previous years, I have always purchased a calendar. However we did not go this year and have been unable to obtain one.

Could you let me know how I can obtain a calendar for 2013?

Thank you!

Lorna Richards

 

Ted Responds:

For our friends in the United States, you can get this one direct from Amazon. (Hint: Order two and you get the free shipping option). For our friends from other countries, you can perhaps do a search on your own area’s Amazon site for similar. Hope this helps!

Hi from South Texas. The changes to the site are awesome well done sir. All this information you and your staff put out is priceless and very very much appreciated.

God bless you and have a great day.

Noe Alaniz

I enjoy getting all the Vegas updates from your newsletter. I will be back in February for my 36th birthday & I cannot wait! This will be the 3rd time in 10 months that I’m returning to Vegas. Keep those newsletter coming!

Sincerely,

Mandy from Nazareth, PA

Thanks again for a wonderful newsletter year. They are so helpful for every visit to LV since I have subscribed.

Greetings from Germany and Frohe Weihnachten (Season Greetings) to you and your family.

Ollie and Diana

Just a letter of thanks for all the info you have provided over the last few years. My wife and I have loved our annual visits to LV for the last 16 years but regrettably due to our age and the escalating air fares from the UK we are reconsidering “annual”.

Hopefully we may make it again some time but meantime thanks and we hope you all have a great holiday and 2013.

Best wishes

Pam and Geoff Smithson

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year TO you and your staff. I love hearing about the city I love to visit.

Thanks for doing what you do!

The Kinloch’s in Philadelphia

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 26, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

December In Las Vegas

Restaurants And Dining

Rice & Company Celebrates Chinese New Year With Year Of The Snake Menu – Rice & Company at Luxor Hotel and Casino will usher in the Year of the Snake with a prix-fixe menu and debut of the Great Wall roll available from Sunday, Feb. 10 to Sunday, Feb. 24.

As a way to celebrate a new year full of good fortune and prosperity, guests may savor a four-course meal, priced at $65 per person. The Chinese New Year menu begins with a choice of Pan Fried Pot Stickers, Vegetable Spring Rolls or the new Great Wall sushi roll made with squid, scallop, asparagus, king crab, halibut, flying fish roe with tempura crunch topped with sambal mayo and balsamic glaze. For the second course, patrons may choose between Egg Drop Soup or Mixed Greens Salad with ginger dressing.

Tender Steak & Seafood Las Vegas Introduces Winter Menu Selections And Prix Fixe Lamb Tasting – Tender Steak & Seafood at Luxor Hotel and Casino introduces new winter dishes available throughout the chilly season.

Downtown / Fremont Street Experience

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

Gaming and Gambling

Getting To Las Vegas

Las Vegas Attractions

More Las Vegas News

Maverick Grand Canyon Landing TourMaverick Grand Canyon Landing Tour û You will start your experience with a breathtaking flight over Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano, as well as many other awe-inspiring views. After descending 3,500 feet inside the Grand Canyon on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, you will enjoy a light snack, a cool beverage and a champagne toast 300 feet above the Colorado River. Your journey will conclude with a flight through beautiful Black Canyon on your return to the South Las Vegas terminal. Operator Mustang Helicopters a division of the Maverick Aviation Group.

Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Landing Tour Now!

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas – I see that many of our friends both in the U.S. and Canada had a white Christmas (and some of you are still getting hit with snow). Our temps barely snuck into the 60’s F on Christmas Eve, but we had plenty of wind. New Years Eve (which I’ll discuss momentarily) is shaping up to be a little colder than usual, but not as cold as it was two years ago when the temps were below freezing at midnight. That was downright insulting!

You’ve probably noticed that this issue isn’t as graphical as usual (when we include lots of pictures). It is more a collection of odds and ends as we finish out the year. Most of our great friends working public relations for all your favorite Las Vegas hotels, shows, restaurants, and activities — the ones who provide us with all the great pictures — are taking some well deserved time off…as I am. So this section and Members Mania will be much shorter than usual. Speaking of pics…

Photo Gallery – We’re getting ready to unveil a brand new Vegas photo gallery that will also let you upload photos you’ve taken on previous trips! Why upload with us?

    1. This way, all of our other readers can enjoy your photos as well. The problem with going to Flickr and trying to look for Vegas photos is that they are pretty disorganized. We won’t have that problem.

 

  • We’re going to work out some regular prizes to give away for favorite photos. And if you aren’t Peter Lik (famous photographer and Las Vegas resident), upload anyway as we’ll be giving away random prizes as well. Just for taking part, so nobody feels left out!

 

New Years Eve – We used to put a lot more time and effort into telling you all about our world-famous New Years Eve celebration and it continues to be better than ever. But… we found out that so very few of you come here for the event, that we really de-emphasized the amount of time we put into it. However… some basics:

    • For Those Not Visiting: KLAS TV (8newsnow.com) has streamed their entire New Years Eve broadcast every year for a number of years, so I’m guessing they will be doing it again. They have cameras and crews up and down The Strip showing the revelers and parties and have amazing coverage of the midnight fireworks.

      They generally start at 10 PM Pacific, but if the stream isn’t up yet, check back just after 11 PM our time. Also, remember the time difference! 10 PM Pacific will be 1 AM Eastern. Or put it this way: After you are done watching that boring ball drop, you can get online and watch what a real celebration looks like!

 

  • For Those Coming: The fireworks will go off the tops of seven properties, stretching from the MGM to The Stratosphere. However, leave out The Strat. It isn’t synced with the other hotels and there is a significant gap between Treasure Island and Strat. (TI is otherwise the most northern hotel involved).

    You don’t want to be dead center in The Strip. You won’t be able to move because of the crowds. Instead, you’ll want to get down between MGM and Aria. The crowds are not as bad, and it is easier to get to the porta-potties. Pay attention to where they are as hotels won’t be letting in anyone without a room key, and you’ll pee your pants trying to fight the crowds once you get inside anyway.

    You’ll also be able to see straight up The Strip and have a nice view of distant fireworks going off at Caesars and Venetian.

    Dress very warm. You are going to be outside for 2, 3, or even four hours depending how long you want to be able to walk up and down the middle of The Strip (free of traffic, which is always an amazing experience). Don’t wait until 30 minutes until midnight to rush out of your hotel. That’s what everybody else does and you’ll be stuck in the crowds.

 

Happy New Year and Best In 2013!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

As the year ends, I wanted to post a sampling of the great thoughts and wishes that were sent our way. We appreciate it, they mean so much to us, and it is always exciting to think that we have so many amazing readers from around the globe!

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 19, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Legends In Concert Celebrates 30 Years On Vegas Strip With New Home At Flamingo Las Vegas – After a record-breaking four-year engagement at HarrahÆs Las Vegas, Legends in Concert, the most acclaimed tribute show in entertainment history, will celebrate the beginning of its third decade on the Las Vegas Strip with a new long-term home at Flamingo Las Vegas beginning Feb. 2013. As previously announced, the showÆs last performance at HarrahÆs Las Vegas will be Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012.

December In Las Vegas

Las Vegas Honors The Victims Of Connecticut

Las Vegas Attractions

Restaurants And Dining

Las Vegas Culinary Event Raised $100,000 For Red Cross Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts – A unique culinary event, ôStart SpreadinÆ the News,ö raised $100,000 for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts Sunday, December 9 on Las VegasÆ own ôBrooklyn Bridgeö at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Nearly 700 guests, volunteers and supporters of the cause, including two ôMayor Goodmans,ö Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada (SWS of NV) Senior Managing Director Larry Ruvo and celebrity chefs, enjoyed 22 restaurants with ties to Las Vegas and New York City. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

More Las Vegas News

Las Vegas Culinary Event Raised $100,000 For Red Cross Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts – A unique culinary event, ôStart SpreadinÆ the News,ö raised $100,000 for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts Sunday, December 9 on Las VegasÆ own ôBrooklyn Bridgeö at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Nearly 700 guests, volunteers and supporters of the cause, including two ôMayor Goodmans,ö Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada (SWS of NV) Senior Managing Director Larry Ruvo and celebrity chefs, enjoyed 22 restaurants with ties to Las Vegas and New York City. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Bellagio Picked As North AmericaÆs Best Casino Resort – The AAA Five Diamond Las Vegas resort, Bellagio, has been recognized as North AmericaÆs Leading Casino Resort at the 2012 World Travel AwardsÆ Ceremony. The ceremony was held this week in New Delhi, India which gives Bellagio its fourth time to receive the same award in the past five years.

Maverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane TourMaverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane Tour û Fly aboard Maverick’s Beechcraft 1900D aircraft on a 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim where your ultimate adventure will begin. Enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas, panoramic overlooks and trails that can only be accessed from inside the park as your journey continues with ground transportation into the Grand Canyon National Park. Absorb the magnificence of the Grand Canyon and capture memories to last a lifetime as you enjoy a gourmet box lunch.

Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

iCandy The Show by Guy Chapman

iCandy Las Vegas – A Sexy Night On The Town – When it comes to the art of burlesque, there are two things to take into consideration: Have a little bit of tease, and leave the rest to imagination. For that reason, the talented ladies of iCandy The Show at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino put on a show that is both polished and sexy, while remaining true to form to the spirit of burlesque. Located within the Saxe Theatre in the Miracle Mile Shops, the showroom treats awaiting patrons to a collection of film clips of vintage burlesque dancers (including Bettie Paige) as guests find their seats.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas – We’re smack dab in the holiday season which means unusually low readership. Many are wrapped up (no pun intended) in celebration, friends and family, TV specials, and what have you. So, we’re still getting you the latest Vegas news, but otherwise going to hold off on commentary and readers letters until after the first of the year when everybody will be back to their normal routines.

From all of us here in Las Vegas, we want to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy holiday Season!

The Christmas Spirit – Usually,
I leave you with a great holiday photo from Las Vegas this time of
year. But… I’d like to do you one better:

Many of the stars of the Las Vegas shows you know
and love are doing a Christmas Special live from Las Vegas this Friday
at 3:00 PM
Pacific Time. And… if that time does not work out for you, it will be
played throughout the weekend. Live, streaming, online.

Head on over to Vegas
Video Network Live from Friday at 3:00 PM on through the
weekend to enjoy some Las Vegas holiday cheer!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 12, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Show And Entertainment News

Magician Rick Thomas Brings His Masterful Illusions To The Suncoast Showroom, January 19 & 20, 2013 – Returning to Las Vegas after a six-month tour in Asia, premier illusionist Rick Thomas will perform at the Suncoast Showroom January 19 and 20. Weaving magic, music and dance into his show, Thomas executes innovative and unique illusions that have helped make him a worldwide success.

December In Las Vegas

Cabo Wabo Cantina Rocks The Holidays With Food And Drink Specials On Christmas Day – Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will be open to rock Christmas with food and drink specials on Tuesday, Dec. 25.

The Strip- side restaurant will serve up season’s greetings with $9 Sammy’s Beach Bar Tailgater, a potent concoction made with Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum, $5 shots of Cabo Wabo Anejo, $21 buckets of domestic beer, $5 nachos, two-for-one house margaritas and two-for-one tacos. Patrons may feast on Cabo Wabo’s savory Baja Mex fare including Short Rib Enchiladas, stuffed with shredded beef, fire-roasted tomato sauce and house cheese blend; and New York Ranchero Steak made with chipotle marinated steak, grilled onions, pico de gallo, papas and chorizo.

MGM Resorts International Puts Las Vegas Twist On Holiday Traditions – MGM Resorts International is celebrating the holidays by turning its world-renowned Las Vegas resorts into seasonal spectaculars. From the Bellagio Conservatory’s transformation into a winter wonderland to “Santa in the Shipwreck” at Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium, Las Vegas is like no other destination during this magical time of year.

Toast To The Holiday Season At Hyde Bellagio With Four Festive Libations – In celebration of the happiest season of all, Hyde Bellagio introduces four festive cocktails available for a limited time.

The handcrafted holiday menu features unique renditions of retro cocktails alongside signature creations highlighting emerging mixology trends. Drawing inspiration from winter fruits, vegetables and spices, Hyde’s holiday libations utilize the freshest ingredients while incorporating innovative additions such as custom-infused whiskeys, sparkling vodka and liquid nitrogen.

Commonwealth Celebrates End Of The World With La Fin Du Monde Party 12/21/12 – Fremont Street’s newest addition, Commonwealth, will host the party to end all parties and offer a toast to say, “Goodbye,” to the world during its La Fin du Monde bash on Friday, 12/21/12.

Revelers will salute the end of the Mayan calendar with the Las Vegas debut of Unibroue’s stout Belgian-style tripel, La Fin du Monde, which will be on draft for the first time at Commonwealth. The only official La Fin du Monde party in Sin City (www.lafindumondeday.com) will conclude at the stroke of midnight with a toast, a balloon release and a chance for partygoers to win a year’s worth of the prized brew.

Downtown / Fremont Street Experience

Las Vegas Attractions

Las Vegas Tourism

Restaurants And Dining

Chef Gordon Ramsay Opens Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill and Gordon Ramsay BurGR – Gordon Ramsay and Caesars Entertainment announced today that Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill will open at Caesars Palace Dec. 18, and that Gordon Ramsay BurGR will open at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Dec 22. Two restaurants from the same chef opening within one week of each other in two different casino resorts is a monumental feat never experienced on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Following the highly successful opening of Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas in May, the opening of Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace and Gordon Ramsay BurGR at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino marks three Gordon Ramsay restaurants to open in Las Vegas in less than a year, expanding his relationship with Caesars Entertainment Corp.

F· Chinese Restaurant Now Open At Hard Rock Hotel – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers guests a new culinary experience with the opening of F·, an Asian dining destination bringing good fortune and great food to patrons. Meaning “luck” in English, F· features a fusion of Asian fare with authentic Chinese cuisine and regional inspirations including Korean, Vietnamese and Thai. Fit for both casual and adventurous guests, dishes evoke exotic flavors fired up by prominent Las Vegas resident and Executive Chef Ming See Woo.

Excalibur Hotel & Casino Introduces New Castle Walk Food Court – The new Castle Walk Food Court at Excalibur Hotel & Casino celebrated its grand opening in November, bringing guests a wide array of delicious new offerings.

The dynamic new food court has introduced several new favorites to the Las Vegas Strip, including Cinnabon, Hot Dog on a Stick, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Pick Up Stix and Schlotzsky’s (opening this spring), as well as other premiums in their categories, such as Tropical Smoothie CafÚ, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Auntie Anne’s and Popcornopolis. Thirsty patrons will enjoy an array of takeaway cocktails and refreshments from The Big Chill, making Castle Walk one of the few food courts on the Las Vegas Strip to serve alcoholic beverages.

Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

A Few More Stories That May Be Of Interest

Maverick Grand Canyon Air TourMaverick Grand Canyon Air Tour – Sit back and relax as you experience this spectacular air excursion through the Grand Canyon. Highlights of this trip include Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Lake Las Vegas and Fortification Hill an extinct volcano. Fly through Black Canyon and on your return to the south Las Vegas valley.

Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Air Tour Now!

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Winter is threatening, the sun is setting at 4:26 PM for the next few more days, temps are in the 50’s F, and we’ve had some serious drizzling rain. Welcome to the holiday season in Las Vegas. The rain is clearing but temps for the next couple of weeks look like they are going to check in right around our 57 F average high for December. January only averages 58, so leave the swimsuit at home.

BTW, I read a recent article noting which Vegas hotels have heated pools and the article (written by a Vegas “expert” who lives in Los Angeles) suggested that you could still leave Vegas with a tan. The writer is a nice person and generally has good advice, so I’m not going to name him. But… take it from someone living here: Even in the direct sunshine, 57 degrees is NOT warm. Especially in a bathing suit. In addition, the sun is so low in the sky and the days so short that sunny areas by many of our resort pools are limited to the very middle of the day.

Moving Toward The New Look – We asked and you responded and suggested that you’d like to see us categorize the news for easier reading. We’ve combined our main news section and our “More” links-only section into easy-to-browse areas. It is still a work in progress, but we agree: It makes the newsletter much nicer to navigate.

In the next week or two, Newkirk’s Note and Members Mania will be moving over to their own blog areas so you can read, comment, and ask questions. I’ll still have my basic column here with info and short bits, and will be linking to the new posts. You won’t miss a thing. Just a slightly different presentation!

Tournament Poker: For 21st Century Casinos & Internet – This new book by our long-time gaming writer Victor H. Royer is a must for that poker player on your gift list (or just gift it to yourself). Victor has written more books on casino gaming than I have fingers and toes to count, has appeared on national radio programs, and been a gaming industry consultant (just to name a few of his accomplishments). We’ll talk more about this tome in future issues, but we consider it worth every penny for even the casual player. You’ll save the cover price just with the knowledge that you gain.

Megabus To Las Vegas – Hot on the heels of Greyhound Bus Line’s new non-stop service from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and the announcement that the X Train will be serving the same route in about a year, Megabus has announced it is also tacking the popular route. Already popular on the east coast, their fleet consists of spacious double-decker busses with free wi-fi, power outlets, and reclining seats.

One big drawback: As a savings measure, the Las Vegas stop will be south of the airport at our local bus transfer station. From there, you’ll have to catch The Deuce down The Strip or on into downtown. The upside: The Deuce originates there and will be empty when you board. You’ll have your choice of seats, including those prime, front-row upstairs seats for an amazing view of The Strip!

X Train – We’ve been keeping you up on the luxury X Train which will start making the trip from Southern California (specifically Fullerton) non-stop to Las Vegas in about a year. With a $99 price tag (each way), I’ve seen much speculation that the venture will fail to draw riders. You can get advanced purchase flights a bit cheaper, and many from California enjoy having their cars while in here.

If I may, many are missing the point: X Train is not aimed at being the fastest or cheapest way to make the journey. Two trains daily will carry only about 1100 people combined each way, a fraction of the volume of people making the journey from LA to Vegas.

LV. X Train will be about the experience. The ability to stretch out, play on your tablet or phone, go to one of the lounge cars and get a drink while watching that game you bet on before leaving, sleep off 48 hours with no sleep (so you can survive work the next day), or simply enjoy the scenery and service while seeing parts of the Mojave Desert that can only be seen by rail. We think it will do OK!

Ted Recommends – Every once in a while, I’m going to suggest something non-Vegas that I’ve found very cool, helpful, or money-saving. Interestingly enough, though… this one has a Vegas component to it. I recently bought a Roku HD Streaming Player device and I love it. What is Roku?

Roku is this simple little box that you hook to your TV (it literally takes 1 minute to set up) and it allows you to watch hundreds of TV and movie channels, the vast majority of which are FREE. You can additionally watch Netflix (if a Netflix paying customer already) just like you would on your computer… but right on your TV instead. If you are like me and sick of how much expanded cable TV costs, trying this out will be the best $50 you spent all year. It also makes a great gift to that person whose tight budget doesn’t allow them cable.

The only “catch” is that you need to have broadband internet a wireless router in your home. If you do, the cost of the Roku is one-time only. Period. Forever.

What’s the Vegas twist? If you search though the Roku selections of travel channels, you’ll find our friends from the Vegas Video Network have all of their shows available for on-demand watching. On your TV, from the comfort of your couch! In the news section, you’ll also find that our local CBS affiliate makes their newscasts available as well. But, that only scratched the surface. Check it out now on Amazon. I guarantee you won’t regret it: Roku HD Streaming Player

Get A Free Labatt Blue Beer Downtown Las Vegas – Watch FSE Live Episode #4 as they interview “The D” Hotel Casino owner Derek Stevens and he’ll tell you how to get a beer on him (just a few minutes into the show)!

Hope You Are Enjoying This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I am a 66 year old pharmacist in upstate NY and have been coming to Las Vegas since I was 18 when my college sent me as a delegate to a national convention!

I was hypnotized by the LV neon lights and still am entranced by them.

Memories of one of Elvis’ final shows at the Hilton was extraordinary but the greatest thing I love about Vegas is Change! I love the old but I adore the new like CityCenter and all the new hotels!

Ted, your newsletter is Las Vegas because its in your heart. The visitors convention bureau should make you CEO. You do not market LV you breath LV for all of its changes. LV is in your blood and soul.

Thank you for making me smile every time I read your creative and enthusiastic newsletter!!!!

TED “Your the BEST of Las Vegas” and I cannot wait to return!

Sincerely,

Bill Cutro

 

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great note. Wow… I can only imagine all you have seen here over the years. My first visit wasn’t until I moved here in 1993. Sounds strange as most people enjoy visiting and then relocate here, but I have a life-long severe allergy to mold and fungus (it makes me ill) and living in the rainy part of Oregon wasn’t helping.

Although I must confess that an interest in sports betting didn’t hurt the cause of me choosing Las Vegas over Phoenix! Every Saturday night when I was out driving around Portland, I’d have my radio tuned to KDWN 720 AM (a Las Vegas station that can be heard in much of the west after dark) and get my fix of the old Stardust Line radio show.

I’m glad to hear you are embracing the constant change. Some do, some don’t. Even without any new hotels on the horizon, we have “sky wheels” and The Linq and SO much new happening in “old” Vegas on Fremont. It is ironic to think that when you started coming, downtown was THE Vegas.

I must confess when I hear colleagues moan that the downside of this industry is “Vegas, Vegas, Vegas… nothing but Vegas” all the time, it makes me feel that maybe they should look for employment in another city! Every day, all of the news and information continues to excite me.

Thanks again!

As a regular annual visitor to Vegas from the UK since 2003 I already do both of your suggestions!

I read the newsletter when it arrives and I have an email folder for the next trip where it’s filed and go back through them shortly before we come over.

We’re in the process of planning our next trip at present and will probably be in Vegas in April 2013.

Keep up the good work.

Bob Byrne

 

Ted Responds:

April is always a great time to visit! Plenty of activities and pleasant weather… spring will be in the air.

I do appreciate you and the others who at least scan and then save our newsletter alerts for when you need them. As much as I’d like to personally answer every question that comes in, many are about things we’ve already previously covered and we don’t have the resources to be everyone’s personal travel guide.

Having said that, suggestions as to what we should cover and questions regarding things we have not covered are always welcome at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com If you are a new reader or unsure if we’ve talked about something in the past (or a regular visitor looking to catch up), we invite you to visit our AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe Newsletter Archives where you can use the drop-down menu near the top to work your way through previous issues.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Latest Concerts Added This Week!

There is no better place to see your favorite acts then in Las Vegas! You’re relaxed, can enjoy a fine meal, have some cocktails without the worry of driving, and no alarm is going to jar you awake all too early the next morning.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 5, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Stacey Nicole Brings Marilyn Monroe To Life In The Rat Pack Is Back At The Rio – Stacey Nicole performs as Marilyn Monroe taking the pressure off of The Rat Pack is Back! entertainers in the Crown Theater at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino nightly.

She said, “I was a dancer in `Legends in Concert‘ for eight years. I was in Nevada Ballet Theater until I joined `Legends.’ I was born in LA but grew up in Las Vegas. I was professionally trained in ballet, tap and jazz beginning at the age of 5. I majored in ballet at the University of Utah, then returned to Las Vegas to join Nevada Dance Theater.”

Jean Philippe Patisserie At Bellagio Chocolate Display Is Back – Jean Philippe PÔtisserie brings Santa Claus to the Bellagio that will delight naughty and nice onlookers. Jean Philippe PÔtisserie’s pastry team created a five-foot 230 pounds dark chocolate Santa that will sit the entire holiday season in his favorite chair. It is also made up of 50 pounds of fondant while Santa’s glistening suit is made up of sugar icing. Gifts in different shapes and sizes, with festive fondant ribbons on top, surround Santa’s chair. The team uses pure gold powder and cacao butter for the hand details of the intricate display.

Cabo Wabo Celebrates 12/12/12 With $12 Food And Drink Specials – Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will toast to the number 12 with $12 food and drinks specials on Wednesday, December 12, 2012.

Guests may celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime date with $12 pitchers of Dos Equis Amber or Lager, 12 for $12 chicken wings with mix-and-match sauces including Hot & Spicy, BBQ or Mexiyaki and two house margaritas for $12. Patrons can fuel up for the festivities with Cabo Wabo’s signature Baja Mex dishes including Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, stuffed with goat cheese and cilantro pesto; and Chicken Taquitos made with shredded chicken, house cheese blend, pico de gallo, sour cream and guacamole.

Fantasy’s Charming Chloe Is December’s Showgirl Of The Month – Fantasy’s British bombshell ChloÚ will keep Las Vegas hot throughout December as this month’s sizzling “Showgirl of the Month.”

A captivating performer in Fantasy, the seductive revue at Luxor Hotel and Casino, the Portsmouth, England native enjoys her favorite British cuisine including Cadbury chocolate and bangers and mash.

When she is not expressing her creativity through choreography or gardening, ChloÚ loves to relax at home in her hot tub and cuddle with her chihuahuas, Ella and Kahlua. The knockout loves animals and hopes to get involved with PETA and the Nevada SPCA in the near future.

Movie Recommendations
Deciding what to watch next? What are your friends watching?
Get movie recommendations based on your personal viewing style!

Maverick Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour – Landing tour with beverages, snacks and Extra Flight Time in the Grand Canyon! Experience the journey of a lifetime. Your journey begins with a flight out of Las Vegas to Hidden Valley to see the arches. Continue your journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape.

Click To Book Maverick Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Penn & Teller by DW Grant

Penn & Teller – Telling Lies and Revealing Secrets – “Magic is not really about the mechanics of your senses. Magic is about understanding-and then manipulating-how viewers digest sensory information,” says Raymond Joseph Teller in a recent issue of Smithsonian Magazine. And nobody manipulates the senses better than Jillette Penn and this Teller guy.

Their show, still drawing large audiences The Rio after 10 plus years, is a fun evening of manipulating and explaining and revealing and manipulating again, but you have to watch and listen carefully because they share secrets quickly and only once. To the duo’s credit, however, the tricks are still amazing and the show is lots of fun, especially when the secrets are outted.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! A great big thank you to our Canadian friends who have been holding on to that bitterly cold air mass and letting us have highs around 70F (21C) the past week or so. Evenings have still been jacket weather (although shorts are a thing of the past for this time of the year).

You talked, I Listened – As previously noted, we’re about to make some changes to this newsletter for the first time in quite some time. I worked my way thought the significant amount of email which resulted from my request for feedback. I want to thank everyone who wrote, and within days we’ll be drawing a winner at random from the group who wrote for the promised goody from our prize closet.

Even though it took awhile, I read and responded to every single one. Plenty of great insight! I’d like to share some of the more common sentiments and fill you in on where we’re headed.

More Of This, More Of That – We had plenty of suggestions regarding the kind of information to you would like added. All good suggestions. So, I looked at them all and did the math and figured out that I’d have to contract out research, writing, and web help to the tune of about $200,000 per year.

I wish I was a zillionaire, but I’m not. Nor are we run, or funded, by a bigger entity.

I wish that I could get a grant from the Visitors Authority, but over the years they have been completely non-responsive. (Probably worried that if we had the money, we could do it better and cheaper than they could do it). For some reason, we’re persona non grata to them. Even basic emails have never been returned.

By the way, no one is doing much of the kind of information requested for the very same (financial) reasons. Which is sad… there is so much to know about Las Vegas and everyone has such varied interests. Unless one of you have an extra $200,000 per year that you simply have nothing else to do with, we have our limits!

Moving on…

Organization – We are going to start organizing the newsletter into sections. Dining, Shows, etc. Also, the link list at the bottom will be moved up and put into the appropriate sections as well. This way, you’ll have a much easier time skimming past what you don’t like and a much better time spotting the stories and links you’ll want to click on to learn more.

Social Media – This caused a LOT of confusion. We’re not changing to cater to social media. We are moving Newkirk’s Notes and Members Mania segments onto blog format so that people can click and read it, enjoy it, and comment on it regardless of where they are coming from. Whether from the newsletter or social media.

Shopping– We’ll look to cover more of it as many like to shop here! At the end of the day, we just don’t get fed much info on it and we don’t have the manpower to hunt it down. But we will contact all the shopping venues and tell them to better keep us in the loop.

Local News – Lots of requests to keep it (including some of the real estate news), so we will. Not so much as featured material, but with links to news stories and me occasionally piping up about something.

Girls And Booze – Two different people specifically suggested that we not carry the drink/cocktail specials we’ve been making a point to highlight, and also less about the risque (topless) Las Vegas shows.

While we do draw a strict line in the sand that involves no strip club, escort service, or porn convention type of involvement (all of which are lucrative), Las Vegas has been synonymous with showgirls (sans top or otherwise) and imbibing since well before I was born. We simply have too much demand for this information.

Local Events – A surprising number of people are interested in some of the “better kept secret” locals events. Certainly First Friday stands out (and something we can look into talking a bit more about). Our problem is that local events usually aren’t advertised that far in advance as they are targeted at locals. But, it is something we’ll look into. Once again, manpower is an issue.

Tune In, Tune Out – We had suggestions that we create a “digest” of material that people can read right before they come to catch up on what has changed. With Las Vegas changing daily and people departing for here all the time, this would be a monumental task to maintain at a cost we’d have no way of recouping.

We realize that some subscribers stay subscribed but only read the few issues prior to their visit, and that is fine. But, then they write us with questions we’ve already covered and we don’t have the time to personally coach everyone up to speed. So… they arrive and waste time attempting to visit something that is closed (or that we warned people was lousy). Simply put, not much we can do about that if you aren’t reading.

If you fall in this boat, let me make a couple of suggestions:

1. It only takes a few minutes to at least skim each issue when it arrives. Far fewer minutes than being uninformed in Las Vegas is going to waste!

2. Or, you can create an email folder to put our notifications in and when your trip gets close, you can work your way through the most recent few months prior to your trip. Working back through them maybe takes an hour, which is (once again) time very well spent when you think about how much money you spend to get here and just how little time you have once you arrive.

Time spent reading us at home and learning about what is new and interesting in Vegas is time well spent. Time wasted in Vegas because you “didn’t know” can’t be recovered.

Hope You Are Enjoying This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Returning full force next week with our new look and feel. You’ll be able to comment and interact in a much better way. We’re prepping right now!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Latest Concerts Added This Week!

There is no better place to see your favorite acts then in Las Vegas! You’re relaxed, can enjoy a fine meal, have some cocktails without the worry of driving, and no alarm is going to jar you awake all too early the next morning.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 28, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Fremont Street Experience Reveals Plans For Slotzilla, A New Attraction To Change Downtown Las Vegas – Fremont Street Experience revealed plans to build a new permanent zipline attraction, SlotZilla, Tuesday during a press conference at which a 6-foot model of the attraction was unveiled. The $11 million attraction will forever alter the downtown Las Vegas skyline with an 11-story slot-machine-themed takeoff platform located near the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Fremont Street.

Celebrity Chefs Host Las Vegas Hurricane Sandy Benefit At New York New York, Public Invited – Celebrity chefs with roots in both New York City and Las Vegas have inspired a unique food and wine extravaganza to benefit victims devastated by superstorm Hurricane Sandy.

“When it comes to the hospitality industry, Las Vegas and New York City are really sister cities,” said Michael Severino of Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada. “This is just a small way all of us in Las Vegas can help those that have been affected by these monster stormsö.

Selena Gomez Wax Figure Visits Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Through January – Madame Tussauds Las Vegas invites visitors to spend the holidays with Selena Gomez as the attraction welcomes her wax figure to the attraction for a limited time, now through Jan. 31.

GomezÆs figure is dressed in a holiday-inspired outfit, making her the perfect addition to a festive photo with friends and family. Younger visitors, and the young at heart, will be delighted to discover a special mailbox standing next to Gomez. Now through Dec. 24, visitors can fill out letters addressed to Santa and drop them in the mailbox for the figure of Gomez to personally deliver to the North Pole

Sugar Factory American Brasserie Celebrates The Holidays With Christmas Dinner And Festive Cocktails – Guests will experience a memorable holiday season at the Sugar Factory American Brasserie as the brasserie will transform into a winter wonderland. Apart from the winter wonderland, it also offers this December specialty holiday cocktails and on Christmas day is a prix fixe dinner. The brasserie is located inside Paris Las Vegas.

Included in the holiday feast is the succulently sliced prime rib complete with brussel sprouts and a twice-baked potato valued at $34. For $10, guests can enjoy the dessert which includes an assortment of milk and cookies.

LVH Hosts 27th Annual æMerry Christmas Las VegasÆ Holiday Show – The 27th annual ôMerry Christmas Las Vegasö live show will take place at the LVH û Las Vegas Hotel (formerly the Las Vegas Hilton) on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at 4 p.m. and will be taped for television from the main showroom. As tradition, the show will be hosted by longtime Las Vegas entertainer / TV host û Tony Sacca, and will feature Las Vegas entertainers performing in the holiday spirit.

Public House Las Vegas Introduces Happy Hour Specials At Luxor – The new Public House Las Vegas at Luxor Hotel and Casino has introduced a happy hour every weekday from 4 to 7 p.m. An array of food and drink specials are offered for those looking for a cool place to kick back on The Strip.

Every Monday through Friday, guests may sip on $3 Coors Light and Bud Light draft beers while cheering on their favorite sports teams and mingling with friends in Public HouseÆs laid-back atmosphere. Patrons will dig in to tasty $5 bar bites including the eateryÆs signature Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Hummus Plate, Cheesesteak Spring Rolls, Mac N’ Cheese Squares and Short Rib Tacos, a dish exclusively available during happy hour.

Gordon Ramsay Steak Introduces the First-Ever ôHellÆs Kitchenö Limited Edition Tasting Menu – The first-ever ôHellÆs Kitchenö Limited Edition Tasting Menu is introduced at the Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas in honor of the ôHellÆs Kitchenö season 10 winner and the restaurantÆs new head chef, Christina Wilson. The award-winning steakhouse gives the guests an opportunity to see and taste the menu prepared on the show in its most perfect form. The first ôHellÆs Kitchenö menu is a five-course prix-fixe menu which features familiar dishes from the popular show. Wilson won against the 18 competitors in the hit show and the first contestant to land a position in a Gordon Ramsay restaurant.

Commonwealth Celebrates Grand Opening In Downtown Las Vegas – Commonwealth will bring Downtown Las Vegas a fascinating new social science on its grand opening on Wednesday, December 12th. The pre-Prohibition era-inspired 6,000-square-foot cocktail bar is located at 525 E. Fremont St. It is also inspired by libations which has its own backroom speakeasy. Live music is offered at the rooftop bar for an experiential setting.

Sugar Factory American Brasserie Introduces New Menu Selections – Dozens of new menu selection including cocktails and sweets are introduced at the Sugar Factory American Brasserie located at Paris Las Vegas.

Sugar FactoryÆs Matthew Piekarski, braserrieÆs new executive chef, added wide selections in the menu. Two new flavorful appetizers are included in the list such as the spiced honey glazed chicken wings in house-made sauce and the crispy Popcorn Shrimp paired with classic horseradish cocktail sauce and remoulade slaw.

New selections of hearty sandwiches are also added such as the Double Grilled Cheese BLT Sandwich made with butter lettuce, applewood smoked bacon and Muenster and American cheeses.

Movie Recommendations
Deciding what to watch next? What are your friends watching?
Get movie recommendations based on your personal viewing style!

Beechcraft 1900D aircraftMaverick Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour û A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon. As you soar above this natural wonder you will see beautiful scenery from the Kaibab National Forest, Tower of Ra and the mighty Colorado River. Ground transportation into the Grand Canyon National Park to enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas, panoramic overlooks and trails that can only be accessed from inside the park concludes your journey. Absorb the magnificence of the Grand Canyon and capture memories to last a lifetime as you enjoy a gourmet box lunch.

Click To Book Maverick Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour Now!

Zarkana by Sarah Jane Woodall

From The World To Las Vegas, Cirque du Soleil’s Zarkana Is Jaw-Dropping – Cirque du Soleil has done it again. The beloved acrobatic troupeÆs latest offering, Zarkana, is fresh from a worldwide tour, having awed audiences from Spain to Moscow with its enchanting mix of spectacle and whimsy. And now, this sensory feast has a permanent home at the Aria Resort in Vegas, where fans have the chance to see it twice nightly, five nights a week.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – I want to take the time to thank the many (and many and many) of you who have wrote in with suggestions regarding our pending revamp of this newsletter. We don’t want to kill anything you really enjoy, and we’d love to add more of what you’d like to see, so it really is helping. If you missed it last week, and this is news to you, please go to last week’s issue and read my section so you can get your two cents worth in!

Many of you had common threads (and a few misconceptions) and we’ll be addressing those next week. We’re putting off changes for another two weeks so that all comments can be read and evaluated.

Viva The International – Lots of buzz that the LVH (former Las Vegas Hilton) is getting ready to re-brand themselves as The International. Quick history lesson: This was the property’s original name back when Elvis was the headliner. LVH owners have registered a trademark on the name, but will not confirm the intention to make any changes at this time. We like it and hope it happens!

You Don’t Say – A couple of our county commissioners decided to walk The Strip last year and were shocked at what they saw. Which was basically what you have to deal with on every trip. The pornslappers, the costume people who can be too aggressive or block the sidewalk, the walkover escalators that are out-of-service, the areas where the sidewalk gets too tight and forces people to walk out on the street. You know… the usual.

Side Note: Let’s not get me started on my rant about how ridiculous it is that neither property upper management, nor our elected officials actually get out and do the experience which all 40 million of you navigate on each and every trip to stay on top of these problems.

So, as we reported here a few months ago, $500,000 was spent to study these issues. The findings? Widen some sidewalks, make sure the walkway elevators and escalators are working, more crossover bridges — as opposed to street-level crosswalks (so we can have more out-of-service escalators), and an attempt to restrict street performers to locations where they impede foot traffic and create choke points.

Really? It took a half-million dollars to spot the problems that I can spot when I drive The Strip on the way home from my chiropractor? Issues that probably every one of you could tell them if just you were asked?!?

Gambling At The Cosmo – The Cosmopolitan has finally discovered that they have a casino, and are going to attempt to bring in some gaming revenue. While they are losing less and less all the time (as a property), they probably can’t turn the corner, and get into profitability without gaming revenues. In large part, they have worked to attract a clientele that tends not to gamble (hipsters and nightclub patrons), so this will be quite a change for them. We’ll see how their efforts go in turning this around.

Not Vegas Related, But Funny – A small town in Missouri has disbanded. Only three of the five town council seats were occupied until two of the elected officials died and one moved away. Then the city’s tax levy ran out. No more city. Oh… the name of the city? Quitman!

Hope You Are Enjoying This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

On my vacation I usually go from Minneapolis to Los Angeles to Las Vegas. I’ve decided that on my next trip to Las Vegas I’m going to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. I’m thinking it would give me a better appreciation for the desert.

Any hints? I’ll be leaving from the Beverly Hilton (Beverly Hills) and arriving at Aria (Las Vegas), both (hopefully) on December 9, 2012.

Thanks,

John Yates

P.S. Outstanding newsletter.

 

Ted Responds:

I’m glad you brought this up, as I’m sure others (especially our European friends) have thought of doing the same. The fact that you are going on a Sunday works in your favor (the heavy traffic will be headed the other way). I’m assuming that you’ve only made the hop by plane in the past.

* Temps are going to average in the high 50’s, so heat certainly won’t be a problem. However, the second half of the trip is a long drive through the middle of nowhere. If you are driving a rental car, I imagine it will be well maintained. However, have a gallon of drinking water and some snacks on you for worst case situation (breaking down). We follow those same rules around here even if we’re just going to Primm or Mesquite. You will have cell phone service.

* In the L.A. area, use the 605 Freeway to scoot up to the 210 (Foothill Freeway) until you hit the 15. Many find the 210 a little more scenic than the 10. As a bonus, you are (more or less) tracing old Route 66.

* If you want to actually drive a good stretch (30 miles) of old Route 66, get off the 15 at Victorville, D Street/Highway 18 exit. Make a left onto D Street and just drive until you reach the 58 in Barstow. The road is good two-lane and this only adds about 5 miles to your trip. A quick right turn onto the 58 will have you back at the 15 North immediately.

* Since your goal is the see the desert and mountains, you may wish to stop at the Calico Ghost Town just outside of Barstow. Once a working silver mining community, it is now a county park with many of the original buildings intact. It is unquestionably a touristy (restaurants, gift shop, etc) but a nice break before you hit the longest middle-of-nowhere stretch of the drive. http://cms.sbcounty.gov/parks/Parks/CalicoGhostTown.aspx

* Especially if you have not stopped, many people prefer to stop in Baker and stretch their legs before the final 90 minutes of the drive.

* Primm is just past the CA/NV border like a mirage in the desert. Remember how many Las Vegas casinos were 20 years ago before high limits and celeb chefs? Welcome to Primm.

* Few know that Las Vegas Blvd. (The Strip) actually extends non-stop to Jean, Nevada (13 miles north of Primm). This is the old Highway 91, and still in very good condition. Get off the 15 at Jean, make a right, then turn left in one block when the road dead ends.

Congratulations… you are on old Highway 91 and set to experience arriving down into Las Vegas just the way Bugsy did.

I’ve traced the route in Google Maps for those who want a visual. If you are any of our other readers do all (or part) of the trip, send us a report with some photos and we’ll share them. A great way to see the southwest for those of you from more “normal” areas of topography. Hope this helps!

I made it to Las Vegas 3 times this year. The I Heart Radio Show was off the hook!

I have been going to Vegas 2-3 times a year for the better part of 25 years. I’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars there over the years. But, I’m thinking about not coming back. Ever! Harry Reid doesn’t like my kind. Neither does President Obama. And apparently, the way the vote went in your state, neither do the citizens of Nevada.

I’m aware this seems like a strange email and a strange venue to talk about politics. But, from reading your newsletter for many years, I know you care. It doesn’t seem like many other people do. Ted, I hope I’m wrong… But with the policies that our President has set in motion, Las Vegas is in for some tough times.

Best of luck to you and your business.

Kind regards,

Steve McAbee

 

Ted Responds:

Usually Newkirk’s Notes is about gaming, hotel, and entertainment issues. However, with the election still pretty fresh, I wanted to address this. If this isn’t your cup of tea, keep scrolling to our New Concerts and More section.

Before I proceed, let me note that I did vote this year, but neither for Obama or Romney. A friend of a friend is former New Mexico governor and Libertarian presidential candidate Gary Johnson, who got my vote. He was re-elected in New Mexico despite running as a Republican in a heavily Democrat state (IE, support from voters of both parties) and lauded for his accomplishments (at least by many). I followed his tenure relatively closely.

By the way, for those who believe that a Libertarian is a Republican who likes to smoke pot, their beliefs go much deeper into issues both sides of the aisle approve of. And let me note that I certainly don’t march in lock-step with Libertarian party beliefs. This was more about voting for the man and his record.

This time around, President Obama won Nevada based on the usual coalition of labor, environmentalists, public workers and the like. However, what put him over the top was the Hispanic vote. Particularly the Mexican-American (M-A) vote, which is important to note as Hispanics from Cuba don’t traditionally align themselves with the Democrat party.

M-A’s have never exactly flocked to the GOP, despite the amnesty during the Reagan years. They want the DREAM act passed (amnesty for illegal immigrants occurring since the last amnesty) and that was the #1 voting concern. Not the economy, not unemployment, not war, not abortion or the environment. That is essentially what carried Obama in Nevada.

Interestingly enough, you had people splitting their vote. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) beat Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D-NV) in the lone U.S. Senate race, which was interesting because Berkley was (pretty much rightfully) accused of/acclaimed for walking in lock-step with Obama. There is a caveat, however: She has been under investigation for voting on legislation that (if you really try to connect the dots) may have had a small impact on her Doctor husband’s livelihood.

Harry Ried was elected two years ago, running against probably the most beatable candidate that year (Sharron Angle), who was more-or-less anti-gaming in a gaming state. Ried had also strong-armed called on the major banks to save CityCenter. Angle felt that if it failed, that was the free market at work. Perhaps rightfully so per conservative viewpoints, but certainly not a popular position with MGM Resorts, the largest employer in the state.

Also, let me point out that the year Ried was re-elected to the Senate, his son lost the governors race, and lost it pretty badly to Brian Sandoval (R-NV). Hence, Nevada sports a GOP Governor, splits the U.S. Senators, and splits Congress (with two Congressional delegates from each party).

Hence, the state isn’t quite blue as one might assume just because Obama carried Nevada. However, if you can swing it, obviously staying at Wynn/Encore or Venetian/Palazzo is one way to support casino owners whose politics mirror yours.

But, I’d like to point out something else: I’ll bet about 99% of the artists you enjoyed at I Heart Radio voted for Obama. If you base all of your purchases on politics, you’re going to be deleting the vast majority of your music collection. Also, most “Vacation States” went blue. So, you might have to scramble to find a place to vacation!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Latest Concerts Added This Week!

There is no better place to see your favorite acts then in Las Vegas! You’re relaxed, can enjoy a fine meal, have some cocktails without the worry of driving, and no alarm is going to jar you awake all too early the next morning.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 21, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

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Fremont Street Experience Rocks In The New Year With Downtown Countdown Featuring Buckcherry And Queensryche – Rock in the new year with Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Countdown New Year’s Eve 2013 celebration filled with nonstop entertainment. On Monday, Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. the ultimate New Year’s Eve street party will feature co-headliners Buckcherry and Queensryche, plus special guests Quiet Riot, Pop Evil and Otherwise. The party lasts all night with performances from six other incredible bands, including local favorites Yellow Brick Road and Zowie Bowie as well as Jizzy Pearl, Rok of Ages, Party Rockers and Brazen.

Holly Madison and Laura Croft Enjoy the New Meatball Spot at Town Square – Reality TV stars Holly Madison and Laura Croft dropped in to dine at the new Meatball Spot at Town Square on November 15th.

The mom-to-be and her sidekick started their feast with the new hot spot’s Kitchen Sink Salad and the Tomato Cucumber Salad, followed by a large, ‘Roman Style’ pizza with artichokes, mushrooms and extra ricotta cheese, chicken meatballs with classic sauce and pork meatballs with spicy meat sauce. To finish off their decadent meal, Madison and Croft indulged in Meatball Spot’s popular Birthday Cake milkshake.

Golden Gate Casino New Vintage Cocktail Menu With Jazz Age, Prohibition And Rat Pack Era Inspired Libations – Founded on whiskey, poker and wild women, liquor has always been an integral part of the Golden Gate. The historic property in downtown Las Vegas has witnessed the rise of the Sin City liquor trade, its retreat underground during Prohibition and its ultimate embrace by a modern city void of open container laws. Paying tribute to its notable past, Las Vegas’ original hotel and casino introduces a vintage cocktail menu inspired by the Jazz Age and Prohibition and Rat Pack eras.

Trevi Welcomes The Holidays With New Festive Martini – Trevi inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will bring the season’s greetings with a festive new holiday cocktail, the Happy Hollytini. Pastry Chef Hank Sbraccia will also introduce his twist to a traditional Christmas treat with eggnog gelato.

The frosty candy cane-inspired martini is an irresistible blend of vanilla vodka, Peppermint schnapps and Bailey’s, priced at $9. The Christmas cocktail is swirled with a red stripe made of white chocolate and rimmed with crushed peppermint candy. Prepared with bourbon, dark rum and a hint of freshly grated nutmeg, the rich and creamy eggnog gelato will be priced at $4.50 per scoop. The sweet concoctions will delight holiday revelers while they take a break from the holiday shopping.

Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort Opens For Its 50th Anniversary Season Friday – Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort (LVSSR) opens for the 2012/13 season on Friday, Nov. 23. Lifts and lift ticket offices, located at the base lodge, open at 9 a.m. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the 30 trails as well as The Strip, the area’s freestyle terrain park, until 4 p.m. Amenities such as Lee Canyon Sports and The Bighorn Grill will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with Bristlecone Bar open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rhumbar Celebrates 12/12/12 With $12 Drink Specials – Rhumbar at The Mirage Hotel & Casino will make 12 the luckiest number in Las Vegas by offering $12 drink specials for 12 hours from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 12.

Guests may celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime day of 12’s with buy-one-get-one $12 signature and house cocktails. Selections include the sweet and spicy Latin Manhattan, made with Cruzan Single Barrel Rum, lime, Falernum Liqueur, bitters and Jamaican ginger beer; and the Zombie, a smooth blend of Ron Zacapa aged rum, and apricot, pineapple, passion fruit and lime juices.

Movie Recommendations
Deciding what to watch next? What are your friends watching?
Get movie recommendations based on your personal viewing style!

Las Vegas Strip at sunsetMaverick Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour – Landing tour with Hors d’oeuvres on the Canyon Floor. Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Descend deep into the Grand Canyon and land on the Hualapai Indian territory on the canyon floor for a champagne toast, beverages and hors d’ oeuvres in the heart of this spectacular wonder of the world.

Click To Book Maverick Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour Now!

Blue Man Group by Guy Chapman

Blue Man Group Begins Anew While Keeping Fan Favorites – Now that The Blue Man Group has settled into its new home at the Monte Carlo Casino and Resort, fans of the popular blue hued trio can look forward to an all new show full of surprises and wonderful toys. During a sneak preview event during the month of November, invited guests got the chance to see these newest additions during a 45 minute version of the show.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – We often skip publishing on holiday weeks as readership drops dramatically with so many traveling and celebrating, but we wanted to get something out this week. We want to wish all of our U.S. readers a Happy Thanksgiving. I’m staying here in Las Vegas, so if you are also not spending it with family, rest assured you aren’t the only one.

It reminds me of one of my most infamous Thanksgiving meals, but not for the reasons you’d suspect. Myself and a radio personality friend were somewhat in the same boat in the late 90’s. No family around and pretty much everyone else we knew was working. (Las Vegas was much more an “industry town” back then and it seemed like almost everybody worked in gaming and hospitality). Palace Station was offering free champagne with their Thanksgiving buffet. I’m not much of a champagne guy, but complimentary booze was complimentary booze (especially with what I was making back then). Rest assured we put a pretty good dent in their profit/loss margin in bubbly! (Palace no longer offers this. Go figure).

Instead of a normal Newkirk’s Notes and Members Mania, I’m making the following announcement and asking for your input. In December, we’re going to debut a completely revamped newsletter. It will be better blended and better organized by topic.

We’re also going to slightly prune down the amount of information we include, which is where you come in. Las Vegas has turned into information overload. Zillions of blogs and social media accounts chasing so many tidbits of information that much of it is starting to fall in the “who cares” category.

Now… for those of you who live/eat/breath Las Vegas (you check Vegas info all day at work, then come home and spend hours more on message boards, blogs, social media, etc), more power to you. Knock yourselves out. We all need a hobby. And, I have high respect for many of my colleagues who dispense much of that information.

However, our target audience is the person who really, really wants to be informed about Las Vegas, but in reality maybe only wants to devote 30 minutes a week to it. Just the facts, just the “must know” stuff. You really don’t care if some hotel coffee shop is changing the kind of coffee they serve, and you expect us to spend the countless hours sifting through the more trivial info so you don’t have to.

Having said that, we don’t want to pare down the kind of features, articles, and links you enjoy. So, it is up to you to give us some constructive criticism and suggestions. Tell us what you like, tell us what you’d like to see changed. With just a couple of notes ahead of time:

1. Coupons have gone the way of the dodo bird. Don’t ask. Do you really want to take a $20 round-trip cab ride to save $15? Instead, we do usually publish a number of “no coupon needed” deals each week and we’ll do a better job of highlighting them for you. We get it: Deals are important!

2. Newkirk’s Notes and Members Mania will resume in full-force. However, we will be moving both of them to blog format online so that we can also invite our Twitter and Facebook fans to read and comment as well. The world is changing, and not everyone wants their info solely in newsletter form. The links to those will be highlighted in each issue.

Regarding anything else, we’re all ears! Drop us a note at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com and get your two cents in before we finalize some major changes to this publication.

Just for being kind enough to give us your thoughts, we’ll put every note into a random drawing (in a couple of weeks) for something cool and unique from our closet of Vegas stuff. We get lots of limited-edition promotional items (not usually available to the public) and someone will win something cool.

Thanks for your help and Happy Thanksgiving.

Hope You Are Enjoying This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Latest Concerts Added This Week!

There is no better place to see your favorite acts then in Las Vegas! You’re relaxed, can enjoy a fine meal, have some cocktails without the worry of driving, and no alarm is going to jar you awake all too early the next morning.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 14, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Las Vegas Events

Matchbox Twenty The Pearl Concert Theater At Palms Casino Resort – North is a direction. It’s a place. It’s a marker of progress — and an intended destination. North is also the title of Matchbox Twenty’s fourth album, the quartet’s first release in five years, and their first album to debut at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart. It is also the bandÆs first set of all-new material in a decade. And like other connotations of the word, the 12-song set represents a determined journey, a carefully considered path that combines earnest melodicism with sly and even snarky fun as well as a new internal world order that has made Matchbox Twenty a tighter and even more collaborative band than ever before in its 17-year career.

Mandalay Bay Home To NevadaÆs Only Female Certified Cicerone (Beer Sommelier) – Las Vegas Strip, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino is proud to have the only female Cicerone in the state of Nevada, one of the 525 Certified Cicerones in the world. Director of Food & Beverage Sarah Johnson recently passed the extensive exam which she earned the title Certified Cicerone«. The title designated an expertise in selecting, acquiring and serving todayÆs wide range of beers. Johnson followed the success of Susan Wolfla, the first female Executive Chef in the Las Vegas Strip, also in the Mandalay Bay.

Hard Rock Hotel Presents 1st Sgt. Thomas B. Lund With Veterans Day Surprise Of A Lifetime – After 20 years of service, 1st Sgt. Thomas B. Lund celebrated his retirement from the military on Friday, November 9, 2012 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Sgt. Lund and his wife attended the 237th Marine Corps Birthday Ball, and experienced a dream night in Las Vegas. The property surprised Sgt. Lund with a retirement gift. He received once-in-a-lifetime complimentary luxe accommodations in the infamous ôReal World Suiteö located in the property.

Sgt. Lund couldnÆt believe the experience as he was pampered by an afternoon at the spa, and the priceless moment he had in the suite. His wife really made something special for him.

Shoppers Can Start Their Holiday Shopping Early On Thanksgiving Day At Miracle Mile Shops – This year, shoppers can start their holiday shopping early as Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will remain open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, Nov. 22) with special deals as follows:

Rihanna Wax Figure Unveiled At Madame Tussauds – Just days before the launch of RihannaÆs new album, Unapologetic, Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas and Hollywood simultaneously revealed her wax figure in both location on November 13th.

Showcasing the on-stage persona of Rihanna, the Las Vegas figure has a microphone in hand complemented by a sultry expression. Her unique personality is presented through fiery red hair, alluring nude-outfit and vibrant pink makeup. Her nails are long with a black nail polish.

Chocolat Bistro Opens At Palms With Sweet Selections – Palms Casino Resort opens the Chocolat Bistro offering a chic fusion of traditional European creperie and cremerie. The sweet delights feature an array of mouthwatering desserts, delectable crepes, a palette of bright, fruity gelatos, fresh flatbreads, and lip-smacking, breakfast croissants.

Owner of Chocolat Bistro Alessandro Minutella said, ôChocolat Bistro is the premier place in Las Vegas to experience the exquisite flavors of rich, authentic Italian gelato, made-to-order crepes, luscious chocolates and decadent desserts.ö

Liquor (Store) Library Opens At McCarran International Airport – The unique new store Liquor Library will make history as it opens in early November 2012 at McCarran International Airport. The store will be distinguished as the first and only packaged liquor store which is located in the airportÆs baggage claim area.

The store will operate in the US without duty-free restrictions, and it will be the first airport liquor store in the country. A wide variety of wine, spirits, beer, cigarettes, cigars and on-the-go essentials will be competitively priced with the liquor stores on-Strip.

Las Vegas visitors will love the convenience of picking up their wine and spirits while at the airport.

Fremont Street Experience Hosts The 26th Annual Downtown Hoedown With Free Concerts – Fremont Street Experience is calling all cowboys and country music fans to grab their boots, chaps and cowboy hats and head on over to the 26th Annual Downtown Hoedown — celebrating the return of the National Finals Rodeo û on Wednesday evening, Dec. 5. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. and showcases popular country music entertainment with free live concerts on three stages. All are invited to join in a downtown celebration and enjoy the feel good country music acts under the neon lights at the Fremont Street Experience.

Sugar Factory American Brasserie Offers Prix Fixe Menu This Thanksgiving – Guests can give thanks at Sugar Factory American Brasserie inside Paris Las Vegas with a special Thanksgiving prix fixe menu on Thursday, Nov. 22.

The traditional Thanksgiving spread will include sliced turkey breast served with giblet gravy and cranberry sauce, and all the fixings including: chicken apple sausage stuffing, mashed potatoes and a Parker House roll, priced at $34.

Bellagio Gallery Of Fine Art Announces ôWarhol Out Westö Featuring 59 Works – Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA), one of Las VegasÆ premier cultural destinations, will open the ôWarhol Out Westö on February 8, 2013.

The pioneering exhibition focuses on the depiction of Warhol on all things Western. There will be 59 iconic artistÆs works in the ôWarhol Out Westö such as sculptures, photographs, paintings, screen prints and wallpaper. WarholÆs 1960s Pop paintings of consumer products and celebrities, advertisement series in the 1980s, ever-loved ôDouble Elvisö painting and his hardly seen ôCowboys and Indiansö series are among the exhibits included.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe A Hit On Las Vegas Boulevard – In the three months since opening its first Las Vegas Strip location, Tropical Smoothie Cafe (TSC) has done well to attract and introduce tourists unfamiliar to the brand to healthy fast food and fresh fruit smoothies, as well as locals who have been enjoying TSC in neighborhoods throughout Las Vegas for the past 12 years.

The Cosmopolitan Turns Their Pool To Ice For Seasonal Skating – On Friday, November 30, 2012, the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will open an Ice Rink by converting its iconic Boulevard Pool into a real ice skating wonderland. It will overlook the heart of the Las Vegas Strip featuring custom-designed fire pits, sÆmores, warm cocktails and much more.

Jackson Browne Comes To The Pearl Concert Theater At Palms Casino Resort – Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne is set to launch his 2013 Acoustic Tour with a string of U.S. dates including a stop at the Pearl Concert Theater inside Palms Casino Resort on February 15, 2013 at 8 p.m. Playing guitar and piano, and collaborating with musicians on stage, Browne will perform songs from his entire body of work, with varying set lists each night.

Movie Recommendations
Deciding what to watch next? What are your friends watching?
Get movie recommendations based on your personal viewing style!

Maverick Helicopter over Grand CanyonMaverick Helicopter Wind Dancer Air and Landing Tour û Landing tour with a Continental breakfast or Hors d’oeuvres on the Canyon Floor. Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Descend deep into the Grand Canyon and land on the Hualapai Indian territory on the canyon floor for a champagne toast, beverages and hors d’ oeuvres in the heart of this spectacular wonder of the world. Fly back through the Grand Canyon on your way to the Bowl of Fire full of flaming red rock formations. Conclude your journey with an exciting flight between the hotels on the Las Vegas Strip!

Click To Book Maverick Helicopter Wind Dancer Air and Landing Tour Now!

Vinnie Favorito Comedy Show by Sarah Jane Woodall

Vinnie Favorito: No Scripts, Censors, Or Sacred Cows – Just Pure Laughter – Some comedians play Vegas for years, using the same material night after night, adding a joke here and there to keep up with the news, but basically working the same stale shtick. Not so with Flamingo funnyman Vinnie Favorito!

Vinnie Favorito belongs to that special class of comic that relies on totally unscripted improvisation û so no two shows are ever the same. His material? You! In the time-honored tradition of Don Rickles, Favorito makes the audience his subject, and spends the entire hour-plus riffing on the idiosyncrasies of the crowd û to hilarious effect.

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – We’ve been hard at work on a really cool new project which we’ve been wanting to do for years, and we should be able to unveil it in the next few weeks. What is it?

Our official Access Vegas “Best Of Las Vegas” readers poll. I know, I know… you are thinking “But… there are already other ‘Best Of’ polls for Las Vegas”. And yes, there are. However, we’re going to have a voting process that is extremely unique and should be a lot of fun. We’re also going to end up answering the questions regarding what the pecking order really is. Not just who is #1, but (for example) if your choice was Monte Carlo or Flamingo, who do you choose?

Our poll is not only going to be entirely software driven, but I’ll be seeing the results as we move along just like you do. No favorites, no limited choices. The only hint I’ll give you is that if you like following the playoffs for a sports league, you’ll love following the voting in our poll.

Plus, while we respect the major poll that our local paper does each year, those voters tend to be locals. If I recall correctly, Outback Steakhouse has won best steakhouse at least one year, and while there is nothing wrong with Outback, I think it is safe to say that that some of those joints serving up beef on The Strip probably are a cut above (pun intended).

The Other Side Of Downtown – Many of you are familiar with the Fremont Street Experience. Some of you may have ventured into the “Fremont East” area over to the El Cortez, and have seen first-hand all of the new business development where the canopy ends. But few visitors understand how Zappos.com leader Tony Hsieh is spending $350 million of his own cash to take what was a neglected, Downtown Las Vegas, and turn it into a vibrant business and arts community.

For those of you who may have heard the rumble, but really didn’t understand what is happening, let me suggest the pictorial article How Tony Hsieh Is Spending $350 Million In Las Vegas.

What does it mean to the regular visitor? More residents downtown, creating an artsy/techy vibe, will mean more opportunities for unique dining and drinking, a larger “downtown” area to explore, and pressure on present properties to really work hard to look good and maintain “locals friendly” pricing to attract these new downtown locals. You all know that the best deals are at the locals’ places. Think of downtown as becoming another “locals” casino and entertainment haven.

Missionaries To Las Vegas – The Evangelical Lutheran denomination has sent a 25 year old female intern pastor from her home in St. Paul, MN to spend a year at a suburban Henderson, NV church. As she is a Minnesota native, I’m sure that she’ll find Las Vegas quite a bit different from her native state (especially in the weather and scenery areas).

But interestingly enough, once you get away from the tourist areas, you really don’t see the “Sin City” that is advertised to the world. And, we have no shortage of churches or people of faith. If you pull up Las Vegas on Google Maps and typed in the word Church, you’ll see that our entire area is dotted with houses of worship: Las Vegas Area Churches

The intern in question really wants to work on the sex trafficking issue that unfortunately plagues our area, something that many area churches are actively involved in (both getting women out of sex trafficking, and showing them that they are welcome in the church). We applaud that, and hope her internship goes well. Full newspaper story: Pastor-in-training chooses Sin City church to develop her skills

But still… the concept of missionaries to Las Vegas is amusing. I guess that I forget how “Sin City” the rest of the world views us as.

Oh, The Hate! – The election is behind us. The Muslim “commie” guy from Kenya beat the wishy-washy Mormon guy who wrecked companies, leaving workers to die without health care. (Hold the emails… I’m parroting what the hardcore followers of both parties believed about their opponents). As you know, I read all the gaming business articles and blogs so you don’t have to, and I must admit surprise at the vitriol directed toward both Steve Wynn and Sheldon Adelson for their political stands this year.

To bring you up to speed, Wynn voted for Obama, but has spent the past year-plus criticizing the President’s policies. Adelson donated $53 million to GOP causes this election cycle, much of it in an attempt to dethrone Obama. (Adelson apparently does not like the administration’s view on Israel). By my calculations, that is .02% of Adelson’s wealth. I doubt he’s missing it. If you don’t like their politics, don’t patronize their joints. But I digress…

For years, there has been this drumbeat that Las Vegas would be a better place if the major gaming companies (the ones that own multiple casinos) broke up or sold off some of their assets. More independent owners/operators would mean more competition, looser gaming, and more deals for our visitors. (Downtown — with a number of different casino owners — seems to bear this out). Properties run by independent operators like… Wynn and Adelson (who can afford to own and operate on The Strip). Rich guys who are most likely going to vote with and support conservative causes.

How about we concentrate on doing what’s best for our visitors and quit tossing rage at casino owners and CEO’s regardless of party affiliation. I’m not overly thrilled with a number of the “top brass” at many gaming companies and the way they are running their outfits. But it has nothing to do with their politics. That hate accomplishes absolutely nothing. Our time is much better spent writing about how to improve the visitor experience.

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