Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 2, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

11’th Anniversary Issue!

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


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Memorial Day Weekend usually kicks off summer for most people, and we’re no exception. Oh sure… we’ve had pool weather pretty much since April (with the exception of a couple of cold snaps), but we’ve now entered the “heat” of the summer. Our first 100 degree day is predicted this coming week and overnight lows are only dipping into the 70’s. The kids had spring break in the spring. It’s now time for adults to enjoy a summer break here in Las Vegas!

My How Time Flies When You Don’t Know What You Are Doing – May 20, 2010 marked the official 11’th Anniversary of this little ole newsletter. We mentioned it last issue, but we’ll consider this the official one (last newsletter came out May 19). So welcome to our 11’th anniversary issue.

We were arguably the very first Las Vegas blog. Other news columns were online, but I was the first guy who took what I was doing and seeing (and thinking) about Las Vegas and putting it online on a regular basis. It actually started as the concept of an email newsletter, but I had the skills to post each issue online so we started archiving them.á(This was long before blog software… you knew HTML or forget about it). When modern day blog software came along, we integrated all the archives.

Back Issues Available Online – The Venetian had just opened when I put the first two issues out. If you are curious to go back and read what I had to say (and what the newsletter looked like back then), check out 1) May 20, 1999 Issue and 2) May 27, 2009 Issue. If you go to our Access Vegas Insider Vibe site, you can use the drop down menu at the top to go back and read any newsletter from any of the past 11 years. Might be a fun walk down history lane (or cold even be a helpful research tool for those piecing together Las Vegas events at a past time).

How Did This All Happen? – We know that many of you just want to get to the Vegas info. If that is you, keep scrolling. However… if you are curious about how a tiny website and a few message board posts turned into this newsletter and our comprehensive Las Vegas website, click to read:

Four New Las Vegas Arenas? – Four different companies are proposing to build brand new 20,000 seat arenas here in Las Vegas. Standing in the way is a very spirited debate over partially using public money to build one of them. We are on the verge of losing events the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), major fights, and Country Music Awards to the new JerryDome in Dallas (or whatever they are calling that mind-bending new stadium the Dallas Cowboys play in). NFR in particular has played a major role in packing out our town during the first two weeks of December (a time which otherwise would be completely dead here).

Silver State Las Vegas Arena
Pictured: Proposed Silver State Arena

While all of that is sorted out, here are the four options:

  • Silverado Ranch Area – This is nearly 10 miles south of The Strip. Nice area to live (I lived there for a number of years). Lousy spot for an arena. It isn’t centrally located for residents and visitors would NOT be happy about the expensive cab ride (or even a shuttle bus ride).
  • Harrahsrena – Harrah’s (the company) bulldozed blocks and blocks of land behind their Las Vegas Strip hotels and would really like to have an arena there. (Hey Harrah’s… you could have left Bourbon Street Hotel there for a while… that was the best dive casino around). This location has great access for visitors and could singlehandedly revive the monorail. However, parking and access for locals would be messy.
  • North Strip – The front-runner (partially because of the involvement of longtime local businesswoman and current GOP Senatorial Candidate Sue Lowden) is the land between the Riviera and Sahara. Centrally located for both visitors and locals and would give a much needed boost to the North Strip. The actually have a name and website: Silver State Arena.
  • Downtown – For years, various arena proposals for downtown have been floating around. Would bring more Strip visitors downtown and really fast track the gentrification of the downtown area.

We’ll keep you posted!

Cinco De Mayo Video – Better late then never on getting this to you: O’ Shea’s held an Uno de Mayo party on the Las Vegas Strip May 1, 2010. This was a Saturday so O’ Shea’s corporate parent Harrah’s decided to jump the gun with an Uno de Mayo celebration and take advantage of weekend crowds.

We headed over to grab some really fun video of the event, including a spontaneous party that broke out in front of Rockhouse next door. It’s less than 5 minutes long, lots of fun and energy, and especially if you haven’t been to town lately, this will give you that Vegas Vibe that your brain is begging for. Pictures from event:

Cinco de Mayo Las Vegas

Sina Foley and the Big Bang

Cinco de Mayo Las Vegas

Cinco de Mayo Las Vegas

Click To Watch: Uno De Mayo Las Vegas Street Party

Comment, Comment, Comment – We now have a comment box open at the bottom this newsletter! Did a particular story catch your eye? Want to make your voice heard of just let off a little steam? Scroll to the bottom of the page and speak your peace.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Rhumbar Las Vegas Sexy Cigar BarGet In The Groove With “Pink Sugar Jam” At Rhumbar Las Vegas – “Summer Nights” at RHUMBAR will introduce “Pink Sugar Jam,” a lively way to kick back and spend Monday nights on the Strip’s most stylish patio. RHUMBAR will jam out with percussionist DJ Rodney and a harmonious lineup of featured guest musicians every week. A great starting point for one of Vegas’ hottest industry nights, guests will enjoy the excitement of the Strip-side patio, while relaxing in RHUMBAR’s cool, Caribbean oasis. Resident DJ Rodney will tantalize the ears with an eclectic mix of percussion-inspired beats, while featured guest performers bring down the house with striking musical performances.

Aria At CityCenter Names Poker Room For Poker Great Phil Ivey – The ARIA Resort & Casino Poker Room will officially reveal its exclusive one-table high-limit room to guests Saturday, May 22. Named in honor of seven-time World Series of Poker Champion and popular professional Phil Ivey, ‘The Ivey Room’ will offer poker players the opportunity to play some of the world’s highest-limit games in Las Vegas’ newest and hottest resort. “We were thrilled that Phil agreed when we asked if he would consider putting his name on our high-limit room. Phil is a great guy, a long-time friend both of the MGM MIRAGE family and mine personally, and remains a fan favorite in the world of poker,” said Bill McBeath, president and chief operating officer of ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter.

Johnny Smalls In Hard Rock Las Vegas Dishes Up New Happy Hour Specials – Johnny Smalls, the new restaurant by Dolce Group and the Nightlife Group at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, introduces a new Happy Hour with 2-for-1 specialty cocktails at the bar and select appetizers starting at only $4. Indulge on small bites such as the mouth-watering Meaty Balls, crispy Tater Fries and scrumptious Mac n Cheese Flatbread just to name a few. To wash down the appetizers Johnny Smalls specialty cocktails offer a little flair to that ordinary cocktail.


Photo credit: Shelley Mansholt PR

The World’s Happiest Mayor Oscar Goodman officially proclaimed May 25 “Rick Faugno Day” in Las Vegas to coincide with National Tap Dance Day in honor of Rick and his triple-threat dancing, singing and acting contributions to our great city through his role as the original Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” and his critically-acclaimed hit one-man show, “Songs My Idols Sang and (Danced).”áSee Rick in Jersey Boys: Jersey Boys Tickets

KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers From Celebrated Chef Kerry Simon Opens Soon At Harrah’s Las VegasHarrah’s Las Vegas is pleased to announce a partnership with celebrated Chef Kerry Simon, in a brand new concept – KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers – offering the ultimate in burger selections with the Simon flair. The restaurant is scheduled to open in early July 2010 in the heart of Harrah’s Las Vegas resort, serving lunch, dinner and late-night bites. Dubbed the “Rock-n-Roll” Chef by Rolling Stone magazine, Simon has created a brand of sexy restaurants with a distinct vibe. At KGB, Simon will take inspiration from his victory on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” where he prevailed over Iron Chef Cat Cora with the ultimate burger.

Habanero Hot Wings This Summer At Tacos & Tequila Las Vegas (With Recipe) – Tacos & Tequila (T&T) has introduced its newest menu item, a mouthwatering dish that is sure to bring on the heat. The haba±ero hot wings will tantalize the taste buds with a spicy blend of haba±ero peppers fused with tangy lime juice for a zesty new summer recipe, available for $10 throughout the summer at T&T. “Haba±eros are one of the spiciest peppers, so we added a few key ingredients to counterbalance the heat,” said Executive Chef Saul Ortiz. “The overall flavor is a zesty blend of tangy, spicy and sweet.”

Join Alize Las Vegas At Taste Of The Nation – Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Las Vegas is part of the nation’s premier culinary benefit dedicated to making sure no kid in America grows up hungry. Each spring, the nation’s hottest chefs and mixologists donate their time, talent and passion at more than 45 events across the United States and Canada, with one goal in mind: to raise the critical funds needed to end childhood hunger. Join AlizÚ’s Chef Mark Purdy and Pastry Chef Tammy Alana at the upcoming Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Las Vegas Event.

“Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick Comes To Paris Las Vegas – Beginning June 11, “Sgt. Pepper Live” featuring Cheap Trick will debut at Paris Las Vegas. Experience Cheap Trick as they perform a live interpretation of one of the most beloved rock albums in history during a limited engagement only at the Paris Las Vegas Theater. Cheap Trick rocks Las Vegas in this dazzling musical experience featuring world-famous rock stars, the Sgt. Pepper Symphony Orchestra and a live interpretation of one of the most beloved rock albums in history. “Sgt. Pepper Live” featuring Cheap Trick is a celebration of The Beatles’ influential album, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Knight Lights Up The Las Vegas Hilton With Rock n’ Roll History – Robert M. Knight, one of the most acclaimed photographers in rock n’ roll history is bringing his art to the Las Vegas Hilton to be both enjoyed and even purchased by visitors starting May 28th with a huge musical kick off event. For more than four decades, Knight has captured iconic images of music legends including Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Carlos Santana, Van Halen and Jeff Beck. His images are quintessential pieces of pop-culture mythology.

Aria Resort & Casino Featured In Upcoming Season Of ABC’s The Bachelorette – The newest Bachelorette, Ali Fedotowsky, will experience a special date at Las Vegas’ newest and hottest resort destination, ARIA Resort & Casino, in the second episode of The Bachelorette, Season 6. The episode will feature a unique, one-on-one date (an intimate pool party at LIQUID; gourmet dinner in a luxurious Sky Villa; and a private musical performance in HAZE Nightclub). Heartbroken after choosing her job over a shot at true love during the last season of The Bachelor, Ali is now ready to give love another try.

Banana King: Panther MagicÖGambling Talk: Video Slots – Banana King: Panther MagicÖ – with Victor H. Royer. With apologies to Horace Greeley for paraphrasing his famous “Go West, young man!” slogan, let us here please be clear that this wonderful game from Aristocrat is for all the ladies, as well as all the men. Young û or as old as me (ehm, let’s not get into that just this moment) û the point is well taken: This is a 25-line double stand-alone progressive, with two progressive jackpots, and not just one. And the best news? You can win on this machine without having to compete with other players, because this progressive is just for each machine, and not linked to others. So, you can always look for the good progressive amounts, and not only enjoy the great base game, and the many bonuses, but also the healthy jackpots.

Click to Read Complete Article…


Featured Tour û Enjoy Las Vegas!

Black Canyon River Rafting TourBlack Canyon River Rafting Tour û Enjoy calm waters and magnificent scenery on this unique rafting day trip between the Black Canyon cliffs on the Colorado River. Relax and admire beauty of Black Canyon and views of Hoover Dam while your experienced and knowledgeable guide shares the history of this magnificent geological area.

Click To Book Black Canyon River Rafting Tour Now!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

As I alluded to last issue, we love you so much that we are expanding Members Mania! We’ll be creating an entire online section for it and be able to answer so many more reader questions for everyone to enjoy (and more importantly learn from). This is a very popular feature of the newsletter and I’m thrilled that we can expand it!

Don’t worry: We’ll summarize and link to every single one of them here in the newsletter. You won’t miss a thing. If all goes well, we’ll launch with the new format next issue.

For those of you who want to jump the gun and get the posts as they happen, the XML feed for that blog will be http://ask.accessvegas.com/feed/

Need your fix now? Members Mania has been part of this newsletter for many years. Head over to our newsletter site and use the drop down menu to work your way through the archives. I’m sure there is plenty of Members Mania information (and lots of other great stuff) from over the years that you’ll still find very valuable!


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 8

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 19, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Spring is giving way to summer although it is going to try to hold on for one more week with highs in the 70’s and 80’s F. Soon to be hot, hot, hot in the day, just simply hot at midnight, and in the 80’s late night. Many of us who live here and have a flexible schedule shift our workdays to take advantage of this. Working in the afternoon and evening allows us to miss the hottest part of the day plus rush hour. (Yes, we have rush hour here).

You know how crowded the grocery store is at 5:30 PM and the lines for your favorite restaurant at 6 PM? I don’t! Plus, the summer weather is perfect about 2 AM. But hey, that is why you come here — to get away from that everyday grind and enjoy warm weather, late-night fun on The Strip and Downtown! Somebody has to keep “Vegas Hours” so we can keep you informed on Vegas happenings.

We’re Almost “Yo Eleven”! – Between 17 years of living here and a penchant for the occasional roll of the craps dice, I inadvertently put the word “Yo” in front of the word “eleven” when I speak. For those not familiar with craps, the roll of an 11 is also called a Yo, and you’ll hear dealers bellow “Yo Eleven” when a player tosses the number 11. Why am I getting sidetracked on this crazy idiosyncrasy? Next week will mark the 11’th anniversary of our newsletter! Many newsletters put the issue number in the mast. Me… I have completely no clue (it has to be near 500). It’s been a blur, I couldn’t dream of doing anything else, and here’s to another 11 years!

Ouch – The jobless rate in the Las Vegas area stands at over 14%. I can’t emphasize this enough: Come visit and have a blast. Your fun helps locals pay their bills. But don’t dream of moving here right now unless you independently wealthy, have a retirement income, or have a business that is doing OK and allows you to live anywhere. Speaking of, we’re doing our part to work on that employment number:

Aloha Jennifer – We have a new staff member! Hawaii native Jennifer Miller just graduated from UNLV with a Broadcast Journalism degree. She’s worked on the UNLV Rebel Yell (student newspaper), interned with Fox 5’s MORE! (live mid-morning show)áand has had stories appear in local print media.

But I took her away from all that. My name is Charlie. (OK… bad joke for those of you old enough to remember the Charlie’s Angels TV show. The rest of you can Netflix it).

She’ll be our Junior Managing Editor in charge of growing the content not just for AccessVegas.com but the pending sites in Reno, Laughlin, Biloxi, and Atlantic City. If you hit any of America’s favorite gaming/resort destinations, we’ll have you covered. She and our other writers are also going to get a lot more active in covering all of the cool, crazy events that happen here.

One problem we face is that we often get notified of awesome events (often free or cheap) with only a day or two notice and really have not had the staff to get short-notice info to you (via Twitter or text). And, we’d like to be more active on our social networking sites. After all, you guys are our friends! And, we’re going to fine-tune a comprehensive event calendar available online and on your phone.

Plus truckloads more positive changes and improvements we have to keep under wraps a little bit longer. Oh, and once Jennifer is running full-tilt, I’ll start podcasting again. We had to drop that years ago and I’m still getting requests to start it back up again. Plus some video blogging (the prospect of which has forced me onto a needed diet) and lots more.

Diamonds Are Forever – Speaking of Netflix, it’s just about time for me to put the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds are Forever in my queue. The core of the movie was shot on location in and around Las Vegas and it is really interesting to see what everything looked like back then (and see just how little Circus Circus has changed in 30 years).

Memorial Day Tip – Our advice? Come to Las Vegas the week following Memorial Day weekend. The week after a major holiday is often a big lull here. Lower room rates and more elbow room abound. Go visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and punch in the dates June 1 through June 4 of this year and see for yourself.

The beautiful pool at the TuscanyMy pick? The Tuscany All Suites Hotel is 2 minutes from The Strip (by car or city bus) or a 7 minute walk. Features upgraded amenities in each room, full casino, right across the street from Las Vegas Restaurant Row, and (hold onto your hat for this one) currently going for $30 a night on the search I just did (above paragraph). Plus they’ll toss in * $20 Food Credit at Tuscany Gardens restaurant * Two Entrees for the price of one at Marilyn’s Cafe or The Cantina * Two Free Drinks at any casino bar * Free Match Play on table games.

So what that airfares are on the high side? Tell me where else you’re going $30 suites at a nice place like this? Everybody quit your airfare bitchin’ and come scoop up our dirt-cheap rooms!

Members Mania News – We’ll soon be moving “Members Mania” online to a blog format. Don’t worry — we’ll link to all the postings here in the newsletter. You’ll have no problem accessing it. However, the sheer number of emails that we don’t get to (and so many of them are so good) has prompted this move. We’ll be able to answer so many more people and make so much more information available.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Celine Dion Voted America’s Favorite Singer/Musician – New Las Vegas Show To Premiere March 2011 At Caesars Palace – The results are in and Celine Dion has been named America’s favorite singer by a new Harris Poll released May 6, 2010. In great company U2 followed in second place, Elvis Presley and the Beatles tied for third and Tim McGraw charted fifth. Rounding out the top ten, Lady Gaga finished in sixth place, George Strait and Rascal Flatts came in seventh and eighth and Alan Jackson and Frank Sinatra tied for the ninth place spot . This is great news for Americans who now have the opportunity to see their favorite singer in Las Vegas as Celine embarks on a three year residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning March 15, 2011.

Tacos & Tequila Introduces The “Black Mamba Margarita” – The mouth-watering drink menu at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor is about to get more exciting with the “Black Mamba Margarita.” The exotic new drink combines Hennessy Black and Hornitos Reposado for a striking new margarita taste just in time for summer. “Black Mamba Margarita” recipe:
0.75 oz Hennessy Black
0.75 oz Hornitos Reposado Tequila
0.75 oz Triple Sec
3 oz fresh sour
Lime wedge for garnish
Shaken to perfection and poured over ice with a lime wedge, this specialty drink pairs well with T&’s spicier selections such as the pulled pork tacos or chile relleno.

City’s Hottest Chefs Cook To Fight Childhood Hunger In Las Vegas – With a passion to fight childhood hunger, Las Vegas’ hottest chefs, restaurants, and mixologists will gather for Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation«, the city’s premier culinary benefit. Taste of the Nation Las Vegas will raise critical funds needed to support Share Our Strength’s efforts to end childhood hunger in the Las Vegas valley and across the nation. This year’s event will be Wednesday, June 2 at Rain Nightclub at the Palms Casino Resort from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, with a VIP reception beginning at 5:30 pm. More than 30 of the city’s finest chefs and restaurants will participate in the gastronomic event.


Photo Credit: Shane O’Neal

Hope Dworaczyk Named Playmate of the Year 2010 – Over at Rain Nightclub, Playboy’s most iconic tradition took place and Playmate of the Year 2010 was announced by Playboy founder and legend, Hugh Hefner. Hefner honored winner, Hope Dworaczyk (Playmate of the Month April 2009) by presenting her with a framed cover issue of her June 2010 magazine cover, keys to a new BMW motorcycle and a check for $100,000. Singer Robin Thicke serenaded guests with a special performance and Dworaczyk joined him on stage . Additional entertainment included a performance by Sony recording artist, The White Tie Affair as well as The Playmate Dancers.

Roger Waters To Bring “The Wall North American Tour” To MGM Grand Garden Arena Friday, November 26 – Roger Waters, co-founder and principal songwriter of the progressive rock band Pink Floyd, will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the original release of The Wall with a monumental tour including a stop at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Friday, Nov. 26. The Thanksgiving weekend show, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature a full band and a newly mounted state-of-the-art production of his ‘masterpiece of alienation and transformation’ performed in its entirety.

Lagasse’s Stadium At The Palazzo Welcomes UFC Fighter Shane CarwinThe Palazzo welcomes UFC Heavyweight Champion Shane Carwin on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 7:00pm as he hosts the UFC 114 Rampage v. Evans Viewing Party inside Lagasse’s Stadium. Carwin, the UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion, will welcome the crowd and recount his favorite UFC moments, who he think will win UFC 114, and his thoughts on fighting Brock Lesnar on July 3rd for UFC 116. Following, fans will have an opportunity to meet Carwin in person for photos and autographs. Prior to Carwin’s welcome, guests are invited to watch pre-commentary and analysis of the UFC fights.

UFC, Red Rock Harley-Davidson And High Rollers Motorcycle Club Host 8th Annual Poker Run On June 6 – Fighters from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders know toughness when they see it. And to them, no one is tougher than those who are fighting cancer. That toughness is why the UFC and Red Rock Harley-Davidson will join the High Rollers Motorcycle Club on Sunday, June 6, for the eighth annual High Rollers Poker Run. The event will support The Caring Place, a local nonprofit that provides no-cost, adjunctive therapies to those touched by cancer. The Poker Run will kick off at 10 a.m. at Red Rock Harley-Davidson, located at 2260 S. Rainbow Blvd., and conclude with a party at The Orleans Hotel and Casino pool.

Fremont Street Experience Is Getting Groovy With “Summer Of The ’70s” – Festival And Free Concert Series Begins Memorial Day Weekend – The music and culture from the decade of the 1970s will return to downtown Las Vegas this summer as Fremont Street Experience presents the “Summer of the ’70s” festival and free concert series. The 102-day promotion will kick off Memorial Day Weekend and run through Labor Day Weekend. “This year, as a follow-up to last year’s successful ‘Summer of ’69’ which drew record nightly crowds to downtown Las Vegas, we decided to move to the next decade and focus on the 1970s,” said Jeff Victor, president of Fremont Street Experience. “Throughout this summer, we will present headliners and tribute bands who will bring back the diverse music of the ’70s, everything from classic rock to disco.”

The Forum Shops At Caesars Announces More Retailers, Expansions, Restaurant Openings For 2010 – Premier Retail Destination Announces More 2010 Openings Including the Largest H&M in the U.S. and Las Vegas’ First P.J. Clarke’s and More. Maintaining its position as one of the nation’s top-selling shopping centers, The Forum Shops at Caesars continues its winning streak as the premier retail, dining and entertainment destination. The Forum Shops is now welcoming eight new retailers and restaurants. In addition, due to increasing sales and demand, six current world-renowned retailers are expanding and remodeling their space.

Miss Kitty Slot MachineGambling Talk: Video Slots – Miss KittyÖ – with Victor H. Royer. Cut yourself a swath of rich winnings from this great multi-line slot machine from Aristocrat! Some people are dog people, and others are cat people. I have always been a cat person, although I have no problems with any of our four-legged friends. But cats are my thing à I just like them as pets, and basically anything with that motif. I am one of those people who are attracted to any item, or merchandise, with a “cat” theme. My best pet ever was a stray tabby cat that found its way to our back porch as a tiny kitten. We rescued it, and it was a valued part of our family for all the 14 years of its life. It was a wonderful cat, and a good friend.

So, whenever I have a chance to find a slot machine with a “cat” theme, it’s one that I always investigate, and like to play. Click to Read Complete Article…


Featured Tour û Enjoy Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon RideLas Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride û The Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon ride is the most romantic way to fly over Las Vegas. This spectacular balloon flight begins in the southwest valley, you will enjoy scenic views of Las Vegas’ residential areas, the renowned Las Vegas Strip to the east and the majestic Red Rock Mountains and Red Rock Canyon to the west.

Click To Book Las Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Now!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I was in Las Vegas with my 48 year old son a week ago, and we, too, encountered the people handing out the hooker ads. My son accepted each little card, explaining, “The guys at work get a kick out of these.” Yeah. Right. But when they’d try to hand one to me, I’d just say in my best mid-seventies voice, “I’m too old.” It always seemed to satisfy them. They never seemed very pushy about it.

The people I resented were those who accepted the cards and dropped them on the ground, I suppose in an act of contempt. I felt the children going by were more exposed to the lurid pictures on the ground than they were to the ones in vendor’s hands. My suggestion is to ignore the vendors or just say no thanks.

The thing that really upset me on this trip was to discover how thoroughly the 6 to 5 blackjacks have taken over the strip. I was especially amazed, at the Flamingo, to see that while they offered both 6 to 5 (on single-deck) and 3 to 2 (on shoes), the single-deck rip-offs had players even when the good shoes had plenty of room. I made it a point to ask pit personnel in every place we were in what they paid, and told those who were 6 to 5 that I couldn’t play their games. I also congratulated any pit boss whose games gave fair odds.

By the way, I came home a small winner. Beats any sized loss, right?

Keep up the good work.

Caravan 520 from Michigan

Ted Responds:

In the next letter, we have a novel solution for at least part of the “girls to your room” cards. One that the hotels and county officials could easily introduce.

Unfortunately, the lower pay blackjack really has taken over The Strip. (Not so much downtown, although you have to look at each table to see what it says the payout is, or ask the dealer before sitting down).

Since we always have new readers, I’ll briefly explain: Blackjack should pay 3-2. This means that if you get a blackjack on (for example) a $10 bet, you should get paid $15. Been that way for many decades. However, many casinos are offering blackjack at 6-5. In real numbers, $12 payout on a $10 bet. Our advice? Don’t play the 6-5 games. The simply odds are that you’ll lose faster because you are being paid less on the big wins.


A simple solution would be to put in trash cans on the city sidewalks. People can either not take the card or just drop them in the nearby cans. Why all the meetings and big decision makers making such a fuss. Women know how to solve little problems. Drop your trash in the trash can.

Also where are all the beautiful pictures that were always posted on your site? Have not seen the Gardens, or the beautiful ceiling in Glass or anything else that was fun to see. Your Website is full of information on so much that is going on but no pictures of anything we always love to see when we visit. Hope you get back to more pictures soon. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words.

CJ from Florida (Mark’s Mom)

Ted Responds:

I’m surprised no one has really brought that up yet. But prominent garbage cans with big signs that say “Drop Cards and Trash” right next to the area the cards are handed out could have a big double-impact:

1. People would be far less likely to litter with an easy way to toss the card. The simple suggestion in writing to drop the cards in the trash would encourage most people to dispose of them properly.
2. The would be disheartening to those passing the cards out. They get aácommission when someone calls the number on the card and books and escort. To have them actually see their hard work going into the trash could help take the wind out of their sails.

Per pictures, we’ve been so focused on content upgrades that we haven’t introduced as many new photos sets as we usually do. That should start to change with more help coming on. In the meantime, remember that we have hundreds of Las Vegas photos at http://www.accessvegas.com/pictures


Enjoy reading your newsletter, thank you. Question- have you done a recent survey (hopefully with reviews) on the buffet scene in Vegas?

Thanks for any info.

Cheers,

Hugh Martell

Ted Responds:

Funny you should ask: One of Jennifer’s responsibilities will be coordinating first-hand reviews of every buffet in town. We’ll also be doing new sections on spas and golf! In the meantime, don’t forget that we have a comprehensive Las Vegas Dining section where you can view restaurant info by hotel, location, or cuisine: Las Vegas Dining and Restaurants


My wife and I love Las Vegas, and have been regular visitors since our first (25th anniversary) visit in 2004. Always so much to see and do!!

One problem though… even after trying as hard as I can, I can’t find a bar/nightclub on the strip that caters to a 40 to 60 yr old crowd, with 60s, 70s, and 80s, music, with dancing, and entertainment. Can you help? We would love to find a place like that… We are in our early 50’s and are not interested in the party bars frequented by the younger set.

We love your newsletters, they really keep the “Vegas vibe” with us when we can’t be there… Keep up the great work!

Kyle & Mary from Windsor, Ontario

Ted Responds:

TheáLas Vegas Rocks Cafe downtown in Neonopolisá is really working to fill that void with various events. For those looking for this experience, I’d call them (702.227.5872) when you hit town to see what they have going on during your stay.

Goldiggers at Golden Nugget comes close. Music is late 70’s through the 80’s played by a DJ. A modern club feel, but one where you don’t have to be under 40 to fit in. While not a club, the Wynn Las Vegas Jazz Brunch (click the link for info) might be right up your alley.

Given that the average age of Las Vegas visitors is late-40’s, I’m surprised someone hasn’t filled this niche a little better. The entire focus is on the 21-35 year old group with all of the pool parties and similar club-style events. Someone should take a stab at what you are asking for. The might make a killing!


Just want to say, itÆs a great site.

Good information for my Vegas trips!

Greetings from Europe, The Netherlands.

Martijn


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 8

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 12, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We had a scheduled week off last week. It was TOUGH to be indoors as weather has been stunning. 75-80 (F) most days although we’re still getting some spring winds. But alas, we’ve been hard at work on huge improvements to AccessVegas.com. We’re known for this newsletter and extremely proud of it. However, we want to have a world-class Las Vegas visitor site as well.

We’re also hard at work to expand the Access(name-of-city).com brand name to Reno, Laughlin, Phoenix, Albuquerque, New Orleans, Biloxi, and Atlantic City. A big task but (knock-on-wood) we have some great help coming on board to push this over the top. And yes, the new cities will have a newsletter similar to this one.

Cold Beer and Dirty Girls? – If this isn’t the crazy photo of the decade, I don’t know what is! New Treasure Island owner Phil Ruffin used to own The Frontier, which was famous in its latter days as the home of Gilley’s Country Bar. The motto was Cold Beer and Dirty Girls and featured attractions were mud wrestling and bikini bull riding.

Gilley's - Quite the Place to Be

Ruffin still had the rights to the Gilley’s name here in Las Vegas and if you’ve visited recently, you’ll notice the new Gilley’s fronts Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) right alongside the world-famous Sirens of TI show. However, Ruffin chose to keep the original Cirque du Soleil show Mystere. Some of the characters from Mystere stopped by in costume to welcome Gilley’s at the recent grand opening.

P.S. If you are interested in seeing how they pick the girls for Sirens of TI, check out the following photo sets: Sirens Of TI Tryouts 2005 andáSirens Of TI Tryouts 2007

Las Vegas Airport Rainbow 2008 004

We Miss Danny Gans – It just so happens that very recently was the one year anniversary of the passing of legendary Las Vegas headliner Danny Gans. Complete happenstance brought this photo to my attention about a week ago and it couldn’t be more fitting. One rarely sees rainbows in Las Vegas as it rarely rains and even more seldom the conditions needed for a rainbow to form.

We happened to be over by the airport (on Tropicana headed east, cross street Paradise) and boom — look what was in front of us but this stunning rainbow! At the time, it was just happenstance that the Gans billboard ended up in the shot. One year after his death, it seems incredibly appropriate as Gans was a man or strong faith and knew where he was going.

Side Note: I was headed to my chiropractor Dr. Steven Peck at 4680 South Eastern Ave. (702-454-4336). I’ve been meaning to give him a plug for a while because he is good. About three years ago, I was experiencing debilitating back pain. He really worked on it and worked with me and I was pain-free in six weeks of twice-weekly visits. Now, I go once every couple of months just to keep everything lined up. If you live here, check him out. Old school, honest, friendly guy who knows his stuff. Worth the drive from anywhere in town. (PS He has no clue I’m doing this, but if he can help anyone who was in my shoes, I’m happy).

Dirt Is Cheap – Undeveloped land values dropped almost 25% here during the past year. Wanna know what is interesting/amusing? Prices are at 2004 levels. If you have been reading the past few months, I’ve been saying that we (Las Vegas) aren’t in some kind of terrible/crazy/bad situation. Visitor numbers, the total employment base (amount of people who actually have jobs), and real estate prices are all at about 2004 levels. 2004 was considered to be a great year here on all accounts! How come I’m the only one that saw the boom as a complete aberration? (I could see that while we were in it — ask anyone who knows me).

Ladies and gentlemen, we are simply returning to normal. Cheap Vegas rooms, reasonable home prices, abundant and inexpensive commercial real estate rental rates (which will help start-up business develop). Once the last of the tens of thousands in the construction industry leave town in search of somewhere construction is on the horizon (reducing the unemployed percentage of population), our unemployment numbers will head down as well.

The Biggest Loser – No, I’m not talking about that weight loss based TV show. Terrance Watanabe of Nebraska lost $189 MILLION dollars at various Harrah’s-owned casinos in 2007. To put that in perspective: You’d have to spend over 1/2 a million dollars each and every day for a year to burn though that much money! This information has become public because Watanabe is suing Harrah’s (Corporation) with claims that they kept him boozed up, extended huge credit lines to him, and granted him extremely high table limits — much higher than other patrons.

Now as of yet (and as much as many new arrivals have tried), we aren’t yet a nanny state here in Nevada. We value the fact that humans are allowed to make their own decisions. Over my many year here, there have been numerous times when I asked the cocktail waitress for a water (instead of liquor). Cutting myself off. Same with how much I decide to gamble. I’ve been offered casino credit and turned it down. No one says I have to take the credit they extend.

As for betting limits, those are between you and the house. If you walk in with a million dollars in a suitcase and they allow you to bet it all on one hand of cards or roll of the dice, so be it. The contract is between you and them. In fact, certain bets like the front line in craps is called a contract bet because once you have made the bet, it stands until you win or lose.

If you want to read further details on this amazing story or make a comment regarding it, click over to Harrah’s Las Vegas High Rolling Gambler Loses $187 Million Dollars

What About The Euro? – Industry leaders are suggesting that the rising power of the dollar won’t hurt Las Vegas too badly as only 3% of our visitors come from Europe. However, 15% of our readership is European. (Funny… you think the hotels or the convention authority would be calling to ask me how to market Las Vegas to Europeans — I must be doing something right). Anyway, I want to affirm our continued commitment to both Europeans and everyone else that we’ll continue to keep you the most informed Las Vegas visitors around. Including how to make best use of your hard-earned (and perhaps devalued) vacation dollars.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Michael Buble’s Crazy Love Tour At MGM Grand August 28 – GRAMMY Award-winner Michael Buble announced today he will bring his “Crazy Love Tour” to Las Vegas for a one-night-only performance at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Aug. 28. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Buble, often described by his peers as “one of the most likeable performers on Earth,” is touring in support of his No. 1 selling release Crazy Love. The album entered the Billboard Top 200 Chart at No. 1 and remained there for two consecutive weeks. Critics and fans agree that this is his best album to date.

Miss Nevada At Buca Di Beppo – The 2010 Miss USA Pageant contestants, dressed to impress – complete with sash and crown, descended upon Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant in Las Vegas this Friday. While enjoying their dining experience, all of the contestants – including Miss Nevada, Julianna Erdesz – joined Buca di Beppo Paisano Partner Ryan Smith as he taught the contestants the proper way to prepare their favorite dishes at the restaurant, and as with any Italian kitchen, taste tests were mandatory.

See Phantom, Matching Tickets For Troops – When you see Phantom û The Las Vegas Spectacular, so will our troops! Phantom will honor our military heroes by donating one Phantom ticket to the men and women of Nellis and Creech Air Force Base for every full-priced ticket purchased by the public during the month of May.

The Phantom Military “ticket match” is available for full-priced tickets purchased by the public during the month of May for performances May 1 – September 5, 2010. The code VALOR must be entered at time of purchase to count toward a ticket donation for the troops at Nellis and Creech Air Force Base.

  1. Go to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular tickets during this month (May 2010). You can purchase a ticket for any show through Sept. 5, 2010 but the ticket must be purchased by the end of this month.
  2. The code VALOR must be entered at time of purchase to count toward a ticket donation for the troops at Nellis and Creech Air Force Base.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Presents A Cabo-Style Memorial Day Weekend – Enjoy Prickly Pear Margaritas And Live Rock Bands On Cabo Wabo’s Cool, Outdoor Patio – For those that can’t make it to Mexico this Memorial Day weekend, celebrate Cabo-style at Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina. Whether looking to relax in the sun or seeking the exiting nightlife vibe of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Cabo Wabo’s lively patio is the perfect place to spend Memorial Day weekend û day or night. The beach-inspired patio brings the relaxing white, sandy beaches of Cabo to the exciting Las Vegas Strip. In true coastal fashion, guests will enjoy soaking up sun rays while sipping the refreshing Prickly Pear margarita, a fruity twist on Hagar’s favorite cocktail. And as night falls, Cabo Wabo will stay true to its name with an exciting lineup of live classic rock bands, hitting the stage nightly at 9:30 p.m. all weekend long.

Rush To Bring 2010 North American Time Machine Tour To MGM Grand – The sensational Canadian trio of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart û better known as RUSH û will bring “The Time Machine Tour” to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Aug. 14. The concert, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature Rush’s classic hits and feature the legendary Moving Pictures album live in its entirety. This summer’s tour will begin in June and will visit approximately 40 cities throughout North America including Boston, Denver and Dallas. Rush is one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history and is currently working on its 20th studio album with producer Nick Raskulinecz.

Erik Estrada Celebrates Cinco de Mayo At Tacos & Tequila – Television icon Erik Estrada celebrated Cinco de Mayo with the best fiesta on the Strip at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor last night. Hundreds gathered for the CHiP’s-inspired bash, including local celebrity talent and performers such as Carrot Top, “Baywatch” beauty Angelica Bridges and the cast of FANTASY, Defending The Caveman’s Paul Perroni, members from Thunder From Down Under, Sandra Benten and Lori Legacy from Menopause The Musical, comedian magician Murray Sawchuck and illusionist Jonathan Silver. The entertainers all walked the red carpet donning a traditional sombrero before heading inside to enjoy the fiesta.

Marc Jacobs’ “MJ702LV: Shirt: Here’s The 411 On Being From 702 û Marc Jacobs, world renowned fashion designer, has created a signature shirt specifically for Las Vegas. “MJ702LV” is made from 100 percent cotton and features a limited edition graffiti design on the front of the shirt and MJ702LV on the back. The t-shirt is one hot item; customers from around the world seek out the Las Vegas location to purchase this unique shirt showcasing Sin City. Price: $28.

forum shops las vegas circular escalator

A Forum First: Spiral Escalator – Round and round and round the shoppers go. In 2004, The Forum Shops unveiled the 3-story, freestanding spiral escalator, becoming the first of its kind in the U.S. The escalator served as the centerpiece of the shopping venue’s phase III expansion. Mitsubishi designed the attraction exclusively for The Forum Shops. The escalator now moves thousands of shoppers daily.

forum shops las vegas circular escalator

Click to view more photos of the circular escalators and the rest of Forum Shops Las Vegas

H&M To Open Largest U.S. Location – Hennes & Mauritz or H&M, the design-driven clothing retailer known for high fashion style and quality basics at affordable prices and the third largest fashion retailer in the world ,will open their largest store in the U.S. at nearly 60,000 square-feet and 3-levels, taking the space previously occupied by FAO Schwarz. This new flagship store will offer even more discerning shoppers in the Las Vegas area access to the latest trends and updated basics for ladies, men, young ladies and young men, including accessories. This location will also feature the H&M’s quality children’s collection. (Opening date: Fall 2010)

Forum Shops Fashion Forward Tips – Here’s your chance to add the perfect accessory this spring. Wardrobe essentials: Wedges, whether they’re leather, suede, patent leather, snakeskin, straw or cork, retailers such as Ferragamo, D&G and Michael Kors all have the perfect fit. Doctor bags are the new rage with leather, metal and canvas. DKNY, Tod’s and Louis Vuitton are just some of the stores needing an MD. Bangles are also back and stacked. Check out Anthropologie, Swarovski and Michael Kors to fill the wrists. Finally, prep for summer with new sunglasses, selecting neutral colors that compliment skin tone. Versace, Victoria’s Secret and Gucci are where your shades are waiting.

Station Casinos Turns Up The Heat With Free May House Entertainment – Station Casinos entertains locals with a number of new weekly acts and shows at several of its properties in addition to its trademark bands that the city has grown to love. New entertainment includes ’80s hair metal rockers, Hair Raid, taking the stage at Sunset Station every Friday and DJ Alpyne spinning tunes by the pool every Sunday afternoon at Aliante Station. Bonkerz Comedy Club at Palace Station welcomes back “America’s Got Talent” finalist Grandma Lee for the entire month of May. Most shows are free or will be noted below if they have a minimal cover charge.

Kick Off The Weekend With Wined Up Fridays At Terra Verde Inside Green Valley Ranch – Once the weekend starts, the wine starts flowing on the patio at Terra Verde Italian restaurant inside Green Valley Ranch. Patrons can now get their weekend started right with Wined Up Fridays, a new and delicious wine and appetizer event culminating in the ideal happy hour. Beginning Friday, April 30, patrons can sample “all-you-can-drink” featured wines while enjoying appetizers for only $20 every Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Now through the end of May, Wined Up Fridays will feature Italian and California wines by Ste. Michelle Winery, and over the course of the summer enjoy samplings from other wineries.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – ZorroÖ – with Victor H. Royer. When I was a little boy I remember TV and movie serials featuring the great Mask of Zorro û the hero who always won the day and rescued the fair maiden from the clutches of the terrible terror! And, as he was leaving, he would carve the Big Z into the hide of the villain! Ahh, what thrills they were in those days of youth!

Today, the legend lives on in a penny denomination video slot machine game from one of the most innovative companies in the world, Aristocrat. Originating in Australia, these innovative video games have begun to be called ôAustralian-style slotsö in the industry. And for good reason. With innovations like this, itÆs no wonder that they are popular with players everywhere, including here in the USA, and in the casinos of the Midwest. Even Las Vegas has many of these games, and the progressive hits very, very often. I have played this game myself, and it is truly great fun. Click to Read Complete Article…


Featured Tour û Enjoy Las Vegas!

Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon TourDream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour û Journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape. After you fly through the Valley of Fire your journey will take you to the Grand Canyon.

Descend further and deeper into the Grand Canyon and land on the canyon floor, located just above the mighty Colorado River. Enjoy a champagne toast, beverages, light snacks and many incredible photo opportunities.

Highlights: * Land in Grand Canyon * Snack included * See Valley of Fire * Sunset flight over Las Vegas Strip

Click To Book Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Editors Note: The comments about the “girls to your room” cards has reached a crescendo both here and now in our local papers. We are printing a number of opinions.


Just want to add to the Reader’s email about the porn card handouts. I was intimidated the 1st time I encountered them myself but learned fast as you say “Just Ignore Them” and people shouldn’t feel like they have to say a word such as no thanks or get lost.

They aren’t doing it to aggravate or intimidate the public, they are only doing it for the monetary compensation what ever that may amount to.

Personally I think the whole thing could be cleaned up a little and still allow the porn card people to do their job. I think all the porn cards people throw on the ground after accepting them make for a pretty unsightly environment and just adds to the trashiness of the whole thing. I don’t know about others but to me seeing all the porn cards spread all over the streets make the porn hand outs appear more dirty and trashy than it would be if the streets were not cluttered with all the cards.

Has Las Vegas ever tried to pass an ordinance requiring a porn card hand out person to pick up any disposed material within a certain distance from where it’s handed out or to require the people who hire the hand out people to also hire people to do nothing but pick up the litter? It won’t solve the intimidation problem that the cards create but at least the overall appearance of it wouldn’t be so trashy and depressing to walk past.

As always , look forward to your newsletters.

RW Milaca from MN


Not all is as bad with the free strip handouts as your readers suggest. Last year I saw a group of 3 nice looking 20 something couples sitting in a circle. Each had a fistful of “sex” cards. The were playing “go Fish.” Brightened up my morning.

Tom Guesman, Ohio


My Wife and I have just spent the week of April 09 to 16 in your fine City. This was our 5th time in the last 3 years. I do not like to portray a negative imagine but their are some concerns that we experienced and would like to share them with you and your readers.

1. It did not matter where you went,the Strip or Fremont Street, the slots were very tight. Definitely no entertainment value for your money.

2. The prices on the strip are getting out of hand. Six Dollars for a Beer has become ridicules. Although hats off to Casino Royale, you can still get a Beer or a Margarita for a Dollar. They know how to pack the house.

3.It sure would be nice if some of the shuttle drivers could say Good morning or make you feel more welcome to your city upon arrival or departure.Some are good but their is a small percentage that make you feel like you are just a commodity to be used for their financial gain.

4.We went on a Bus side trip to Laughlin. Will not mention the Company or the details but the driver was totally unprofessional. As a result we canceled our trip to Primm with the same Company the following day. Also noticed the slots in Laughlin have tightened up also.

5.The Ace has speeded up traveling from the strip to Downtown, however there is still some confusion between the Ace and the Deuce routes amongst travelers. Hats off to the elderly gentlemen Security Guard on one of the Ace Buses. He went above and beyond the call of duty. He was polite and approachable. He went out of his way to welcome the riders and listen to their concerns. He even gave us a Verbal Tour and History lesson of your fine City as we traveled up and down the strip on the Ace. Now that is an Ambassador for your City.

6.There is one thing that really bothered me as we walked up and down the strip. It was the homeless or the panhandlers that were laying on the Pedestrian crossovers at numerous locations. I am looking at a City were the Casino Hotel complexes are worth Billions, were Money appears to be no object, but people are lying starving in the street. Can not the Civic Officials or owners of these extravagant complexes work together in helping these people in some manner?

All in all once again we greatly enjoyed our trip to Las Vegas and will definitely return. I do not know what the magic of this City is, but it keeps you coming back for more.

Thanks,

Brian from Canada

Ted Responds:

OK, we have some very positive developing news. Two of our County Commissioners (The Strip actually sits outside the city limits and is governed by the county) recently walked The Strip with various casino management and executives to view all of this first-hand.

They were extremely disheartened at how bad the situation is getting. They are going to be meeting and looking at every single option available as they are well aware of the negative impact and image it leaves our visitors with.

The ACLU has always strongly fought any removal or regulation of the “pornslappers” citing free speech. My understanding is that the ACLU will be involved in these meetings in order to help find a solution that works for everyone. We probably won’t see changes overnight, but movement on this is afoot. As always, we’ll keep you posted on all developments!


I’ve been a BIG fan of your newsletter since I started visiting Las Vegas 5 years ago. Its THE source for the most up-to-date information regarding anything Las Vegas! Any other copy-cat version of your website and newsletter would be like eating a cloned chicken (it may look like a real chicken.. but it don’t taste like one and it leaves a bad aftertaste in your mouth)!

Case in point about the value of your newsletter. If I did not read your article about Lance Burton leaving Monte Carlo in September, 2010 (after a long and prosperous 14 years) – I would’ve planned on seeing his show sometime next year. Since I’m coming soon, I immediately checked out his show times and booked a show! I would’ve completely missed out on seeing him (for the first time) if it were not for your up-to-date newsletter.

I’ve always found your newsletter to be helpful in a variety of ways for each of my trips to Las Vegas. Keep up the excellent work!

Thanks again.

Patrick from Apalachin, New York


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 8

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 28, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Wednesday brought wind. Lots and lots and lots of wind. Tropical storm force winds (with palm fronds all over the place to prove it) McCarran airport reported gusts of over 60 miles per hour. Funny… no sign of (infamous Weather Channel reporter) Jim Cantore who shows up all over Florida seemingly anytime they get winds in excess of 20 miles-per-hour.

The winds brought unseasonably cold temps in the 50’s F for a couple days. I actually had to switch my house back over to heater settings instead of the air conditioning I’ve been using for weeks! By the time you read this, I’m happy to say that temps will be back in the 70’s and 80’s here. As it should be in April.

Stunning day, 85 degrees, nice crowd outside of Pawn Stars. on TwitpicPawn Stars Secrets – I have not had time to finish my “Secrets Of Pawn Stars” (Las Vegas based TV show) but I’ll give you a few quick tips. Best time to visit is about 9:30 AM (M-F). This is a working pawn shop and the “cast” of the show are the actual owners. At this time of the morning, they have usually arrived but business is slow and you have the best chance to say hello and get an autograph. Later in the day, they pretty much stay out of site or they would be mobbed. If taking a cab, tell the cabbie the exact address: 713 Las Vegas Boulevard South. If taking the Deuce, wait until you are past the Stratosphere (where the crowds on the bus thin out), then ask the drive to let you know the stop closest to the Pawn Stars shop.

Newsy, Newsy, Newsy News – I’m still hard at work on some exciting new features and upgrades to AccessVegas.com and (if all goes well) a pending staff addition. So… the rest of my section here will kind of be a dump of stories I’ve typed up the past few weeks but never made it to the newsletter. I’m a news hound and end up writing blurbs on a number of Las Vegas related topics each week. I then grab a couple of them for the newsletter to insert between the travel and tourism musings.

This week, you are getting them all. If you are strictly looking for “visitor news and information” simply scroll past this first section and we’ll have the usual wide range of insider tips and visitor happenings!

Unfinished Projects – Speaking of the halt in construction, the Review-Journal did a recent article chronicling local projects that got started, then came to a standstill. You can find it at High hopes turn to broken dreams for several local projects. An interesting note: Because of our dry climate, unfinished buildings can sit a minimum of 5 years (and up to 10) without experiencing any degradation of what has already been done. Which is within the time frame that many of these projects are projected to be restarted.

Shrinking Paychecks – Nevada had the second largest drop in personal income in 2009 (Wyoming edged us out). Per capita income dropped from just around $40k per year to $38.5k. Obviously, the very high unemployment factors in. But not-to-be-ignored are the many people who have seen wage reductions (including yours truly). Obviously, my job is Nevada-centric and I love it too much to look for alternate work. (I could probably do a lot more consulting… but I’m not fond of giving away my trade secrets).

Others who are established here and/or simply just enjoy living here are doing what it takes to stay and make it with concessions in number of hours worked per week or hourly wage concessions. In the long run, this might be a positive as it continues to separate the wheat from the chaff. Those who really are dedicated to Nevada vs. those who just got on board looking for the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. For those really wanting to see what is at the end of the Rainbow (Blvd) here in Las Vegas, you can check it out: Google Maps.

Mirrors In The Desert – A huge solar energy installation has been proposed near Primm, Nevada (home ofáthe first hotel/casinos you see driving in from Southern California). It will employ 1000 union construction workers at the peak of the project. The problem? Some environmental groups are upset that it will disturb the “pristine” desert in that area. For those of you who drive in from Southern California: Next time you get around the Yates Wells Road exit (just a few miles before Primm), look east and decide for yourself if that seems like a good place for a solar installation. For the rest of you, check it out on Google Maps.

Nuke Dump – The U.S. government has spent billions of dollars building a nuclear waste dump 100 miles north of town (Yucca Mountain). Harry Reid and President Obama finally got it all but shut down but I must be quick to note just about every Nevada politician of both parties has opposed this thing. However, states are suing because their nuclear plants paid into a guarantee that the federal government would build a repository for the spent fuel. So… the dump idea isn’t dead yet.

I’m one of the few Nevadans you’ll fine who has had no problem with the repository. The spent waste would be carried there by train through a route that comes nowhere near Las Vegas. The isolated area was picked for the ability to store the waste long-term with little risk. (This stuff simply does not blow up and is far enough in the middle-of-nowhere that terrorism issues are highly unlikely).

And… it would bring permanent, high-paying jobs to the area. Specifically to the hard-hit Northwest Las Vegas valley where scientists and other workers would most likely live. And… nuclear energy makes us less dependent on oil. I have no ties to any energy industry. I just think the hand-wringing here in Nevada over this thing has to stop. Speaking of the north end of the valley needing economic influx…

Nevada Home Foreclosure Crisis – The Review-Journal did an excellent article on the state of real estate here, particularly in hard hit North Las Vegas. Worth a read for those thinking of investing or moving here:

The now infamous "Donation Stations" downtown to help the hom... on TwitpicSpare Change Meters Downtown – A couple of weeks ago, I noticed a yellow parking meter just outside the Golden Gate (across the street from the Plaza) that said Donation Station on it. Didn’t know what it was, thought it might be a scam. Turns out that the city has placed old parking meters in a few spots around downtown and uses the money placed in them to meet the needs of the homeless. Now, my preferred charity locally in the Las Vegas Rescue Mission (not affiliated with these donation stations). But this leads to having some fun: Stick a quarter or two in one of these “donation stations” next time you see one. Then if a panhandler hits you up for change, tell him you already gave.

Downtown (on the Las Vegas Fremont Street Experience where most tourists go), you’ll find one of these next to the Golden Gate casino on Main Street right by where you cross over to The Plaza. Most of the panhandler downtown make decent money at it and that is their job. I bought one a beer years ago and he told me the racket: He rents a cheap “rent by the week” room, panhandles for cash, makes an OK living without having to answer to anyone or pay taxes. He buys clothes at the thrift store, wears them a few days to a week (keeps the homeless look happening), then tosses them and buys more. I’d suggest putting some pocket change in the new donation stations and then when asked for cash by a panhandler, tell them you already donated.

Beat It, Just Beat It – You’ve probably heard that Cirque du Soleil is debuting a Michael Jackson show here. In 2012. Using amazing show effects that probably have not been invented yet (talk of 3D and all kinds of other stuff to actually more-or-less bring Jackson back to life). We’ll let you know more as the opening date gets closer. Which is a long, long time from now…

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:



Maria Torres holding her check in front of the winning machine

Lucky Winner Pleasantly Surprised By $257,405 Wheel Of Fortune Jackpot At The Four Queens Hotel & Casino – On April 18, Four Queens customer, Maria Torres, was having fun playing $20 in her favorite slot machine, quarter Wheel of Fortune«. At around 6 p.m. she was looking up at the wheel waiting for it to spin, when an employee approached her and told her that she in fact had hit the jackpot for $257,405.68

Starlet Holly Madison And The Cast Of Peepshow Celebrate First Anniversary At Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino – Blonde bombshell Holly Madison and the sexy cast of PEEPSHOW celebrated the show’s first anniversary at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Sunday, April 18, with a stunning signature PEEPSHOW cake and a celebratory champagne toast. Madison, star of the E! TV Series, “The Girls Next Door and the upcoming “Holly’s World,” stars as “Bo Peep,” a modern woman who discovers her newfound sexuality. Madison performs alongside a sizzling ensemble of sexy PEEPSHOW GIRLS, showstoppers from film, TV and Broadway who were handpicked to perform in this exhilarating production.

Norah Jones And Guest Corrine Bailey Rae To Perform At The Pearl At The Palms Sunday, August 22, 2010, 8:00 p.m. – Grammy award-winning powerhouses take over The Pearl Concert Theater inside Palms Casino Resort as Norah Jones and special guest Corrine Bailey Rae perform on Sunday, August 22, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. This stop is part of Jones’ 2010 U.S. tour in support of The Fall (2009) and follows a string of festival performances including Bonnaroo in Tennessee, Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland. The unique blend of jazz, vocal pop, bluesy country and contemporary folk, is what sets Norah Jones apart from other songstresses and has earned the vocalist and pianist multiple accolades.

M Resort Spa Casino Ushers In Pool Season With Ultra-Low Pricing And Specials – Officials at the M Resort Spa Casino are preparing to officially kick-off pool season on April 19 with the opening of its main pool deck, Villaggio Del Sole. The resort will usher in the pool season with some of the city’s lowest entry and cabana prices and specials for locals and UNLV students. “We had thousands of people come to our pool last year. This year, we are looking forward to building on that success and introducing great locals pricing and truly the best prices for cabanas and bottle service in the market,” said Joseph A. Magliarditi, COO, M Resort.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Kicks Off Live Rock Star Karaoke Industry Night – Sing With A Band And Party Like A Rock Star Every Sunday Night – Sammy Hagar is giving his fans something to sing about. Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino now offers Live Rock Star Karaoke on Sunday nights, giving revelers the opportunity to party like a real live rock star. Vegas’ most rockin’ industry night gives the most courageous rockers the chance to step up to Hagar’s personal stage to claim their 3-minutes of fame as they sing their hearts out to hits alongside the live band 3 Digit IQ. All karaoke kings and queens over the age of 21 will be graciously awarded for their talents with a complimentary shot of Cabo Wabo Tequila.


Photo Credit: Erik Kabik/Retna

Jersey Boys Celebrates 2 Years On The Strip With Platinum Record Commemoration – On Saturday, April 24, the cast and crew of JERSEY BOYS celebrated two hit years at the Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino with two of the Seasons themselves, Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio. The Second Anniversary was celebrated with a Platinum Record Commemoration at the curtain call following the performance. Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio joined the cast on-stage at the conclusion of the performance to receive the Platinum Record from Kevin Gore of Rhino Records. A signature Platinum Record cake was also presented on-stage.

Family Fun At The Forum Shops At Caesars This Summer – World-Renowned Shopping Experience Offers Activities For Every Member Of The Family – This summer, families flocking to Las Vegas will want to visit The Forum Shops at Caesars for myriad attractions. Just the sheer number of stores at The Forum Shops will keep kids’ eyes roving. Below is a list of additional attractions for families: The Atlantis Aquarium: The 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium stocked with colorful tropical fish located in the Roman Great Hall. Of heroic proportion, the hall is 160 feet in diameter and 85 feet high with more than 300 fish. Be sure to watch the aquarists feed them during dives scheduled at 1:15 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. daily. Families can take a complimentary below-the-scenes guided tour of the support facilities Monday through Friday at 3:15 p.m.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Mega Millioni$erÖ – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and also show you some of the great new slots that are now available in your favorite casino. In this issue, I present Mega Millioni$erÖ Mr.Cashman, by Aristocrat, and a short description of the game and how to play it.

Mega Millioni$erÖ Mr.Cashman is a penny slot machine with pay bigger pays than most others. In many jurisdictions it is a multi-site progressive, meaning the progressive jackpot grows from play in different casinos û sometimes even among many casinos in different states (as permitted by the regulatory authorities of those jurisdictions).á In Nevada, the game is linked among many casinos in the State, and so the jackpot not only grows fast, but it is also hit quite often. Click to Read Complete Article…


Featured Tour û Enjoy Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Bus Of The StarsGrand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour with Optional IMAX û Sit back and relax as your coach driver takes you on a narrated journey from Las Vegas to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. You can upgrade your tour to include discounted tickets to the incredible IMAX footage of the canyon at the National Geographic Visitor Center on the only South Rim bus tour that makes a stop at the center.

Highlights: * Excellent value for money * Fully narrated tour * Free hotel pickup and drop-off included * Lunch included * Comprehensive tour by bus/coach * Family friendly

Click To Book Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour Now!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We are coming to Vegas in September for start of our honeymoon. Lots of people are telling me that we HAVE to visit the Grand Canyon. Can you please give me your views, is this really awe inspiring or just a “large hole”. Last year we were lucky enough to have gone on safari in Kenya and that was truly humbling, so any similar feeling from the Canyon and we would not even hesitate.

I would also like to take in a show but something a little different, we are torn between a burlesque performance and Blue Man Group. Very diverse I know but would appreciate your views on both. Thanks for the help and the regular emails are fantastic and very informative.

Regards

Brian and Sara

Ted Responds:

Our friend Mark from The Vegas Tourist is a tour guide that has taken many thousands of people all over this area. One of his favorite stories is how on bus tours that include The Grand Canyon, many people assume that it is probably just a big hole and once you’ve seen a photo of it, no big deal.

Then… they get off the bus, go over and actually look at the Canyon, and are so amazed and astounded that the literally run back to the bus for their camera and bemoan that they only have 1.5 hours there. You will be more than amazed. Similar experiences (although not quite as jaw-dropping) happen to those who visit Hoover Dam. OK… a big dam. So what? Just go stand on the thing. I’ve never had anyone visit it who wasn’t awestruck.

Our suggestion? We have a Canyon bus tour listed just above. But for those who want the absolute best Grand Canyon experience, we strongly suggest the Maverick Helicopter Tours flight that actually lands you in at at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. To check out preview video of that flight, head over to our Stunning Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Video Preview post.

Burlesque or Blue Man? Honestly, because those two are so worlds apart, I’d do them both. Blue Man Group is a unique show that you won’t forget for a long time. Total overdrive sensory overload (in a good way). For burlesque, X Burlesque is actually pretty reasonably priced (making hitting both shows a viable option). You can also read our Review of X Burlesque.

Congratulations on the pending nuptials!


Well I’m devastated!!! looking forward to my fifth visit to Vegas on 20th April only to be scuppered by a volcano!!!!!! So it’s back to reading your fantastic newsletter until I can re-schedule hopefully later this year, so keep up the good work, I can’t do without my weekly read.

I’m sure there are many Brits in my position but we won’t be beaten, will be back soon.

Bob from Northampton, England

Ted Responds:

Over 1000 Europeans got stuck here and couldn’t get home for an extra week, which was really unfortunate and really strained them. So, I guess you can count your blessings that you weren’t among them.

Having said that, looking forward to a Vegas vacation only to have it pulled out from under you is harsh! One of the reasons why I believe we have such a large international readership is because many of you come for up to two weeks (or longer) at a time, and look forward to the visit for many months while reading our newsletter and planning ideas for all the new things to see and do.

Las Vegas isn’t going anywhere. You’ll enjoy your next visit twice as much!


I have a unique solution for the problem of the porn slappers. I work for Border Patrol and so I have several T-shirts and Polo shirts that have CBP (Custom and Border Protection which is the parent agency to Border Patrol) emblems on them. Just wear one of those while walking down the strip and bang… no porn slappers try to give you anything. In fact I was purposefully trying to get some cards last year to “decorate” a colleague’s desk when I got back from Vegas. I couldn’t even get them to give me some when I asked… LOL. It was hilarious.

SO my suggestion is to go to one of the many outlet malls, t-shirts store, etc. and buy a Border Patrol shirt or hat. CBP, ICE, US Marshall, FBI should all do the job equally as well and it’ll be fun to watch the ‘slappers turn away from you!!!

David in Texas

Ted Responds:

This is certainly a new twist on turning the tables. I might give it a try myself. I’m used to just ignoring them (or walking as close as I can to them, knowing that they can’t legally touch me). But I can understand the intimidation that many visitors who aren’t use to them go through.

The new Arizona-type law would probably help with this issue, but it is very controversial and Nevada doesn’t have the will to pass something like that at this time. I agree that they are the #1 complaint. Funny how they were able to ban a strippermobile (with clothed women inside) from driving up and down The Strip, but can’t find a way to stop the porn(card) slappers.


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 21, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Ted is on assignment this week working on AccessVegas.com expansion projects. Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff.

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Rockhouse To Kick Off “55 Days Of Summer” On Cinco De Mayo – Guests To Enjoy Patio Party, Drink Specials, At Las Vegas’ Only Ultra Dive Bar – This Cinco de Mayo Rockhouse Bar & Nightclub will launch “55 Days of Summer,” featuring nearly three months of specials on Budweiser SELECT 55. The only ultra dive bar in Las Vegas will kick off the warm weather season with a fiesta of fives on the patio on Wednesday, May 5. In addition to the “55 Days of Summer” offering of two Budweiser SELECT 55s for $6, Rockhouse will feature $5 Jose Cuervo shots and margaritas throughout the “55 Days of Summer.”

Aria And Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas Named Among Conde Nast Traveler’s 2010 “Hot List” – Conde Nast Traveler today announced their 2010 “Hot List,” naming ARIA Resort & Casino and Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas among this year’s top new hotels. Featuring 134 hotels throughout 55 countries, the 14th annual list was determined after reviewing thousands of new hotels, then anonymously staying at the most compelling ones. The centerpiece of CityCenter , ARIA features an unprecedented combination of striking architecture, sustainable design, high-end service and spectacular amenities.

Debut of High Society: Las Vegas’ Singular Dayclub – 9 Group, renowned for unparalleled dining, nightlife and lifestyle experiences, presents a provocative and innovative dayclub affair known as High Society at Nove Italiano inside Palms Casino Resort, which opened on Sunday, April 11. Creating a posh atmosphere filled with life’s little luxuries in the middle of the afternoon, High Society offers partygoers a place to mix and mingle among Las Vegas’ nobility while indulging in high-end libations, decadent dayclub menu and vivacious entertainment. “We are excited to present High Society to Las Vegas and the world,” says managing member and co-founder of 9 Group, Michael Morton.

Second Annual “Gimme Shelter” Blues Festival To Return To The Village Lake Las Vegas – The Village and Heaven Can Wait Animal Society will co-host the Second Annual “Gimme Shelter” Blues Festival which will feature local bands including John Earl’s Boogieman Blues Band, Pete Contino Quartet and Lady ‘J’ Huston & The Fireballs. Guests can enjoy a fun-filled night of great music, beautiful lakeside atmosphere, drink specials and the many amazing restaurants The Village has for dinner. Heaven Can Wait Animal Society, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) humane animal organization, was formed in 2000 to eliminate the senseless killing of over 30,000 animals annually in Las Vegas area shelters.

Tony Sacca Returns To His Entertainment Roots With Retro Louis Prima-style Act – Veteran performer Tony Sacca, the “Entertainment Ambassador of Las Vegas” and founder of the Las Vegas Rocks CafÚ, has returned to his entertainment roots because of his new downtown venue where there are three distinct rooms: the main dining room; the Marquee Room; and the Embassy Theatre. The Marquee Room, a relaxed, intimate, retro-Vegas-style showroom with dining tables, has created a sort of “back to the future” experience for Sacca, who is again performing on a regular basis.

Julio Iglesias Brings His “Starry Night” Tour To The Las Vegas Hilton – Grammy award-winner Julio Iglesias is performing for three nights only at the Hilton Theater inside the Las Vegas Hilton on June 10, 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. Iglesias got his start in 1968 at the Benidorm Music Festival with a performance of his original song “La Vida Sigue Igual,” which landed him first prize and a record contract with an independent label. During the ’70s, he toured Europe and Latin America, gaining a large fan base with hits such as “Un Canto A Galicia” and “Manuela.”

Eva Longoria Parker’s Beso Steakhouse Is Named “Best New Restaurant” – Eva Longoria Parker’s celebrated steakhouse, Beso, was named “Best New Restaurant” by the Las Vegas Review-Journal 2010 Annual Best of Las Vegas readers’ poll. The Las Vegas interpretation, situated directly beneath her opulent nightclub Eve, is Longoria Parker’s second restaurant, modeled after her popular, original Beso in Hollywood. Since opening in December 2009 at Crystals in the world-renowned CityCenter complex, Beso has quickly become a favorite hotspot among locals and celebrities alike.

Nevada Ballet Theatre And Cirque Du Soleil Present: The 3rd Annual A Choreographers’ Showcase – A Project Designed To Stimulate And Encourage Artistic Growth – Nevada Ballet Theatre, the state’s largest professional ballet company, and the internationally renowned Cirque du Soleil are pleased to announce their 3rd annual A Choreographers’ Showcase: A Project Designed to Stimulate and Encourage Artistic Growth. This highly anticipated production will include eleven originally choreographed works by artists from the various resident Cirque du Soleil shows as well as professional dancers from Nevada Ballet Theatre.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Jaws – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and later also show you some of the great new slots that are about to be released. In this issue, I present JAWS, by Aristocrat, and a short description of the game and how to play it.

No, this shark doesnÆt bite à it gives 3 separate Bonuses, along with Jackpots, and gives you that feeling of getting something û like money! Yes, itÆs true that when you hit the bonus round, the whole bank of machines turns blood red û but unlike in the movie, in this case the big shark is about to give you some great wins. ItÆs an awesome game, now appearing in Midwest casinos everywhere. It has been available in Las Vegas and Florida for some time. Now you can look for itÆs striking facade in your favorite casino as well. Click to Read Complete Article…


Featured Tour û Enjoy Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Bus Of The StarsLas Vegas Double-Decker Bus of the Stars û Hop onboard with your favorite celebrities and tour the world-famous Las Vegas Strip! This one-of-a-kind tour takes place on an original London double-decker bus and every sightseeing show is varied, ensuring a unique experience every time!

Highlights: * Choice of several departures throughout the day * Choice of seating available * Receive discounts at selected restaurants, shops and attractions * Pick-up from a centrally located meeting point

Click To Book Las Vegas Double-Decker
Bus Of The Stars Now!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted is on assignment this week working on AccessVegas.com expansion projects. Members Mania will return next week.


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 14, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Awesome weather (high 70’s) and light breezes have a smile on my face. Just got back from taking a break and enjoyed a beautiful twilight walk. Massive amount of stuff this week, so we’ll dive right in:

Get On The X – A new train service from L.A. to Las Vegas called the X Train is slated to start next year. No… not the sci-fi maglev or the other Express train that they want to build to Victorville (with a transfer to Palmdale with another transfer to Los Angeles… I’m not making that up). This train will be double decker, run on existing rail lines between the two cities, have a party/bar car and plenty of big screen TV’s (even in the coaches), and cost $99 round trip.

While the journey would take slightly longer than driving under normal conditions (perhaps slightly less than driving on Friday and Sunday), the Vegas Experience would start from the minute you get on the train. And… you’d get to sleep away the hungover ride home instead of driving yourself or fighting your way through airports at each end. The terminus will probably be next to The Rio (just across the freeway from Caesars and Bellagio, right in the heart of The Strip).

I’ve been suggesting this for some time. In fact, I’ll quote a couple of blog comments I made on The Die Is Cast post Waiting on a Train back in January:

It seems like there are only two people in town (Mayor Goodman and myself) who believe that everybody is overlooking the obvious with train travel between here and Los Angeles:

Union Pacific has a perfectly good set of train tracks from downtown Las Vegas to downtown Las Vegas. Note: The “failure” of past Amtrak service is a moot point, as that route was a long-haul train route not geared for the specific needs of Vegas to L.A.

Would people ride? …no driving, the train could have a party train atmosphere, …No airport parking fees. No long drive home with a hangover. No TSA. No rip-off cab rides from McCarran.

Southern Californians, chime in: Would you ride this kind of train instead of driving of flying? Comments are always welcome at allvegastv@aol.com

Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas and Montelago Village

Free Shuttle To Lake Las Vegas – We were all excited upon hearing about a possible free shuttle to Lake Las Vegas. Many of you have asked about it. Unfortunately, the shuttle is ONLY for those who are staying at Lake Las Vegas. The only other way out there is by renting a car or paying a roughly $40 taxi ride each way. If you want to decide whether Lake Las Vegas is worth seeing, we’ve posted a couple of really good video overviews at Lake Las Vegas and MonteLago Village Resort Video Previews.

;Sunset and Vines wine bar located in beautiful Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas Wine Bar

My advice? If you are a regular Las Vegas visitor and have a car, head out for a couple hours to enjoy it. Come summer, go in the morning to avoid the heat. The rest of the year, I’d go about an hour before sunset and plan on enjoying drinks and dinner out there. (If you really, really don’t find a Lake Las Vegas restaurant per your desires, you are only a few minutes from Henderson, NV which has just about any dining option you’d want).

No More Star Trek Experience – I hate to be the bearer of bad news. But, it looks like the Star Trek Experience won’t be coming to Neonopolis after all. In fact, some of the memorabilia have already been sold off. More at ‘Trek’ fans find sale a nostalgic Experience

NBC crew shooting for opening scenes to Heads Up Poker to be ... on TwitpicShooting The Shooters – Later in this issue, we have information on the National Heads-Up Poker Tournament (starts to air on NBC this weekend). I was up at Voodoo (top of Rio) the day they were shooting for the opening of the show. For those of you wondering where some of those stunning TV shots of Las Vegas come from, this is how they get them.

Home Sales Way Up – Temporarily. The combination of rock bottom prices, the federal tax credit’s pending end and some owners finally giving up hope of getting much of anything out their properties (and just selling instead of holding out) really spurred a buying spree in March. My opinion? We’ll see another lull soon and continued very soft home pricing.

Why? The lack of new construction (along with the finish or CityCenter) and a continued soft local economy with very high unemployment is going to create another wave of foreclosures later this year. Those who have been swooping in and paying cash for homes as in investment appear to pretty much already have done so. Housing is going to remain dirt cheap here for quite some time (and both home and apartment rental rates are exceptionally low for this area as well). How low? Recently, 1600 sq. ft. homes in this neighborhood just a mile from downtown have been selling for around $40,000. Far off their $50k and $60k asking price. However… before you plan that move:

Business Influx? – I know that we have a segment of readers who follow this not just to enhance their visits, but also in consideration of whether they may want to move their business here. I’d hold off, and I’ll tell you why: Huge state budget shortfalls are starting serious talks about the implementation of broad based business taxes. The current legislature is very tax-friendly and next years’ session could result in serious tax increases (both business and personal). You have a very real possibility of an end to Nevada’s reputation as a tax haven for locals.

March Madness Party, Party, Party – As promised, we have the footage from some of the free festivities that took place downtown on Fremont Street during March Madness:

las vegas sexy dancing bartenders

van halen tribute band fan halen las vegas

dream team divas sexy choreographed dancing singing show

Of course, you don’t have to settle for the photos. Click to enjoy video of March Madness Las Vegas Fremont Street Entertainment

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Cabo Wabo Celebrates A Rock ‘N’ Roll Cinco De Mayo – Great Food, Live Music, Prizes And Plenty Of Tequila – Cabo Wabo is ready to rock ‘n’ roll this Cinco de Mayo. The Mexican Cantina will celebrate Sammy Hagar-style on Wednesday, May 5, with Cabo Wabo Tequila specials, prizes, and plenty of partying. Plus, one lucky partier will even win a one-of-a-kind autographed Sammy Hagar guitar. Raffle tickets will be given to any customer purchasing a Cabo Wabo Tequila cocktail with between Friday, April 30 and Wednesday, May 5. The winner must be present at the time of the drawing. Cinco de Mayo revelers will also enjoy live rock ‘n’ roll as well as sensational food and drink specials throughout the night.

Annie Duke Wins NBC’s National Heads-Up Poker Championship – Claims the $500,000 First-Place Prize. NBCÆs Broadcast to Air on Six Consecutive Sundays Beginning April 18 (check local listings). Annie Duke triumphed against the creme de la creme of the poker world to win the 6th Annual National Heads-Up Poker Championship at the Caesars Palace Poker Tournament Room. Duke defeated Erik Seidel, who has won eight World Series of Poker bracelets and ranks 9th all-time money list, in the tournamentÆs best-of-three finals to claim the championship and the $500,000 first-place prize. The National Heads-Up Poker Championship was taped for broadcast on NBC over six consecutive Sundays beginning April 18 (Noon – 1PM ET).

First Food & Bar Announces New Late Night Menu Showcasing “Size Matters” Featuring Larger-Than-Life Eats – FIRST Food & Bar – THE place for late night dining in Las Vegas. The high energy of the city is wrapped up in amazing eats and drinks in this hip restaurant and bar that allows guests to keep an eye on all the action with amazing views of The Strip. Chef Sam “Sammy D” DeMarco listened to customers who were coming in after their shifts or when winding down from a whirlwind night û they all wanted one thing û something more than a watered down late night menu. Chef responded with a creative menu full of FIRST classics like Fish & Chips, Breakfast Mini Burgers and Tuna “Nachos.

Serendipity 3 Celebrates One-Year Anniversary At Landmark Home In Front Of Caesars Palace – With more than 50 years of history at it’s flagship New York location, Serendipity 3 at Caesars Palace has become a landmark destination in Las Vegas. In honor of its one-year anniversary, Las Vegas Mayor, Oscar Goodman proclaimed April 6, 2010 “Serendipity 3 Day” in the city of Las Vegas. Special guest of honor, Holly Madison, delivered Mayor Goodman’s proclamation before cutting the ceremony’s anniversary cake. Caesars Palace Executive Pastry Chef Randy Sebastian custom-created a dessert in Holly’s name for guests to enjoy throughout the entire month of April. “Holly’s Pink Peppermint Sundae” includes pink peppermint ice cream, a pink blondie brownie, seasonal berries, red berry coulis and pink cotton candy. The delicacy is available to guests throughout the entire month of April for $10.

After checking out Matt Goss at Caesars Palace last week, Jersey Boy star, Rick Faugno, made a repeat visit Friday evening. Faugno joined Goss to duet on two songs including the new Strip classic “Lovely Las Vegas.” Photo credit: Cashman Photo

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – The Sopranos« – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and later also show you some of the great new slots that are about to be released. In this issue, I present: The Sopranos« video slot machine from Aristocrat.

OK youse bums, listen up û I’m gonna loin you sumtin’. Settle in for some great wins, ’cause udderwise youse can fugghedaboudit. You got it? Good! Well, okay then, that’s about as much as I can stand, in this kind of movie-speak. It’s fun to make fun, especially if you remember a movie called “Nicky Blue Eyes”. But this is a slot machine, based on the very popular TV show “The Sopranos«”. It is gaming’s new top boss, The Soprano« Video Double Standalone Progressive video slot machine from Aristocrat. Click to Read Complete Article…


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I could use some advice on booking a hotel on the Vegas Strip. You see I’m coming over from Scotland for my 35th birthday so I will be in town from Jan 19 to 26 next year. I don’t know about you but 35 is one of those special birthdays where I either hide form the world and cry the day away bemoaning the aging process or make the day so amazing I’m reminded of how amazing life can be, I have every faith Las Vegas won’t disappoint.

I’ve been reading your Vegas update e-mails for so long and have finally, painstakingly, drawn up a schedule for the 7 days. Theres just sooo much to fit in just the one week. I’m so jealous of you guys who live there. There are certain things I must get done on each day but I’ve allowed plenty of flexibility for let say, late starts after late nights. I’m just the kinda guy who would rather have a list of things to do in a day and be happy if I only got one thing done but really enjoyed it rather than spending one precious holiday moment pondering what there is to do that day.

With all that said, I’m meeting my pal from Little Rock in Las Vegas for the week and while we are sorting out our own flights into town, I’m charged with getting the hotel.

As we have so much to get done we decided a central strip hotel would be best and I’ve got the Flamingo or Imperial Palace in mind. Well we’d love the Bellagio but there are some budget constraints to consider, my international flight doesn’t come cheap after all.

Right now the best deals I could find for the week are: Flamingo $465, Imperial Palace $375

Las Vegas Hotel Deals doesn’t have these two hotels available yet and when I spoke with one of their team they suggested waiting up until 4 or 5 months before we plan on getting there before booking a hotel as we would be more likely to get a discounted room and special offers such as their discount booklet.

As you guys know how your city works, in your opinion do the prices I’ve found for those two hotels seem like unbeatable value and I should just grab them now, or would it be worth my while waiting until around September to see whats on offer then?

Thanks for your e-mail updates, I really appreciate all the work you put into them.

Trey from Scotland

Ted Responds:

Yes… you are coming a long way and I know that you want to enjoy your birthday here and get the best deals. And… I appreciate you checking with Las Vegas Hotel Deals as they are our hotel partners. They are a big part of 1. Keeping this newsletter 100% free and 2. Why we have the resources to put so much work into it.

Hotel rooms are similar to airline tickets. If you want to book way in advance, you will pay the regular rate. Travel companies won’t discount because they have no clue what supply and demand will be. Nor are hotels willing to tie up many rooms (until them themselves know more).

Plenty of rooms will be available in Las Vegas for the next five years (at least) because of the glut of rooms from recent construction. You can wait until the 4-5 month mark to make your hotel reservations, no problem.

And on that note, so much will change and so many new things will be happening here that your list of what you want to do and see will continue to change as well.

Hang tight, enjoy the anticipation. You can simply enjoy keeping your eyes on prices, as I know that you are traveling a long way and this is a BIG trip for you.

Thanks for reading and please tell your friends who are interested in Las Vegas to also subscribe.

P.S. I hit 45 this year, so I know what you are going through!


My wife and I just returned from Vegas. We went to celebrate our 20’th anniversary. We stayed downtown at MSS (Main Street Station) and really did enjoy ourselves. The folks at MSS are so friendly and always helpful. The reason for my email is this; We saw a show on the History or Discovery channel about a pawn shop in downtown Vegas and thought we would like to see for ourselves what it was like.

After driving up to the place on Las Vegas Blvd, we could not even get into the parking lot. People were lined up outside on the sidewalk. It look as they had someone controlling the door and also someone directing traffic in and around their store. We went back a couple days later and the same thing. No room to park. This must be the NEW attraction for downtown Vegas.

Thanks for your informative newsletter.

Astor Kinney

Ted Responds:

Pawn Stars (the show based around the shop) is seen by 1 out of 100 people in the U.S. Over 3 million people per week. I’m actually working on a column called Secrets of Pawn Stars (best time to get there to see the actual guys, how to get there, etc.) that I hope to have done next week.

Shortly after the show debuted, I actually went to check out the shop. Owner Rick Harrison was just sitting there doing some paperwork. Nobody in line to get in the door. Boy-oh-boy have things changed since then!


We just got back from 7 glorious days in Vegas. We live in New York and try to get to Vegas twice a year. This trip was mainly for “Wayniac Week”. Yes, we call ourselves “Wayniacs” but are friends with Mr. Las Vegas himself, “Wayne Newton”.

We had 3 days of festivities which involved Wayne and his family. Everything was at the Tropicana which is where you an catch Wayne’s show “Once Before I go”.

It started with a luncheon and registration at the Tropicana then we were off to Wayne’s ranch for a barbecue.YES, Mr. Newton was a gracious as can be, sharing his home with us!áMicrophone in hand, Wayne took out four of his beautiful Arabian horses and told us about each one of them. It was awesome and the food was great too. Wayne, you’re a marvelous host.

Then, off to Wayne’s show. Next day, formal dinner at the Trop with Wayne and his family. He made the most wonderful speech as to how much his fans mean to him and they are not just fans, they are his true friends! We watched videos of ourselves and Wayne going back 30 years. What great memories!

Many thanks Wayne for everything and for being the so kind and generous to your fans! We love you!

Anyone who hasn’t seen Wayne’s show, you better go now — you’ve only got ’till April 24th! It’s amazing!

Donna Dunn

Ted Responds:

Thanks for sharing your amazing trip! Time is certainly running out to see the show here. For those of you who always thought that you could see Sigfried and Roy or Danny Gans sometime down the road, you might want to get over to see Once Before I Go. For our friends in Southern California and Biloxi, Newton has one-night shows coming up in your areas. Tickets for all shows/cities available at Wayne Newton Tickets


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More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24

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All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

April 14, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 7, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Well, well, well… I’ve been getting notes from East Coast readers saying “Hey, look at our weather”. Ya… and look at all the snow and rain and COLD you had all winter, OK! Having said that, we’re finally catching up with a couple days cresting into the 80’s although we’ll see little bit of cooling this week. Average high for April is 78. Average high for May is 88. Average high for June, July, and August? Really hot and it never gets cold even in the middle of the night.

Then Again, Maybe Not – We spent tons of time and energy getting you up-to-speed on the changes in the bus service along The Strip and to Downtown Fremont Street. Nevermind. The Ace will continue to run as planned and continue to be an express route. However, The Deuce has reverted to most of the old route, running from Downtown to Mandalay Bay at the south end of The Strip. If you are going downtown, you are still better off using the Ace (or transferring to it ASAP) if you are south of the Bellagio/Paris stops. The Ace is much quicker and deposits you right in the heart of the Fremont Street Experience.

Lance Burton To Leave Monte Carlo In September – After 14 years, Lance Burton and the Monte Carlo are parting ways. No word of his next move and he’s likely to surface here again. But with the present economy, nothing is a given. If you want to see Lance again (or see him for the first time… show is well worth the money and family friendly while appealing to all ages), click and grab your Lance Burton tickets now. Also, our deepest sympathy to Lance who lost his mother to cancer last week.

Neon Boneyard Makeover Underway – From time-to-time we get asked how to find the Neon Boneyard. For those unaware, this is the area that many of the famous signs go after the hotels are demolished or simply to make way for upgraded signage. Long stored at Las Vegas Blvd. North and Mc Williams Ave. (and not open to the public, although a drive by still lets you see quite a bit), the signs are getting temporarily relocated to make say for a new $1.9 million park at this location. The signs will have a permanent home and be proudly displayed. We’ll keep you updated.

What Do Pinball, Liberace, And Gambling Have In Common? – Very close proximity to each other. Recent relocations of both the Las Vegas Pinball Hall of Fame and the Gamblers Book Shop have created the perfect trifecta for a (barely) off-the-Strip jaunt. Right around the intersection of Tropicana and Spencer you can hop from one to the next to the next. Gamblers Book Store is at 1550 E. Tropicana and the pinball museum is next door. 1/2 block east and you are at the Liberace museum. A highly recommended “to do” for the repeat visitor and don’t even worry about hailing a cab if you don’t want to. City Bus Route 201 (Tropicana) will take you from the Strip to Spencer St. in literally just a few minutes. Route 201 Information/Timetables (Suggest printing out for ease of reading).

Nine Month Schools – Not really tourist news, but the cessation of Las Vegas growth has the school district converting many 12 month (year-around) schools back to standard 9 month school calendars. The growth of the area over the past decade forced split school years that went all year long (with varying class times). Not a favorite of most students nor parents. And… once again a sign that we (as a ácity, the non-tourist areas) are finally getting some breathing room.

Hello Manchester! – I’m sure this is old news to our UK friends (who make up 6% of our readers), but Virgin Atlantic is starting non-stop flights from Manchester to Las Vegas next year. We’ve previously noted that local officials (LVCVA — our Convention Visitors Authority) would like to increase the percentage of international visitors from 15% to 20%. And… how 25% of our readers (that’s you!) are international already. But heaven forbid these officials want to come ask us how we meet your information needs.

Instead, they (and I kid you not) have started an email newsletter that looks suspiciously like this one. Except that it is much, much shorter. Oh… and no “what is really happening” commentary. Oh… and no Members Mania type of readers questions answered. And it has a name very, very close to ours. I’m mean darn near identical. Way to go, LVCVA. Nice work! What am I doing that you are going to rip off next?

Tiered Hotel Pricing Model Feedback – A couple months ago, we asked what you thought of a tiered hotel price system. Where one rate just gets you the basic room, a higher rate gets you some amenities. I want to thank those of you (and there were many) who gave us your thoughts. You can read what everyone said at AccessVegas.com Readers Weigh In On Las Vegas Hotel Room Price Proposal

Visitor Volume Flat – February’s visitor volume was basically identical to last year, with about 2.8 million of you visiting. Down from record highs a few year ago, but let’s put that in perspective: That is an average of 100,000 people arriving every day. Every day of the month in February. Not exactly “Vegas on its deathbed” that the major media was trying to tout for so long. Morons. They had no clue what they were talking about.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Azure: The Daytime Luxury Pool Experience – Guests get ready for another stylish pool season where the high-profile keeps a low profile. Champagne, frozen grapes, fresh fruit, chilled towels, poolside cabana massages by Canyon Ranch SpaClub, cuisine from celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Evian water mistings and sunscreen application. The Palazzo Las Vegas brings the opulence of the French Riviera to the Las Vegas Strip with AZURE. Embodying sophistication at its finest, AZURE is for the guest who enjoys the finer things in life. AZURE is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday through Sunday for guests 21 and over.

The World Famous Rehab Pool Party Returns For Seventh Season At Hard Rock – The Original “Daylife” Party Opens with a Performance from Multi-Platinum Musician, and Record Producer Wyclef Jean. Poolside glamour rules as the preeminent “daylife” experience, REHAB, returns to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas for an unprecedented seventh season. The world famous Sunday pool party will reach new heights this summer when it kicks off on April 18.

Spend Less, Indulge More At The Spa At Aria And Vdara Health & Beauty At CityCenter – $50 treatments offered During National Spa Week April 12-18: The Spa at ARIA and Vdara Health & Beauty at CityCenter, the spectacular new resort destination on the Las Vegas Strip, invite guests to experience the city’s most luxurious new spas at unbelievable value April 12-18. The luxurious venues will join 800 spas across North America in offering $50 specially priced treatments in honor of Spa Week. But act fast, these offerings are booking quickly. The Spa at ARIA is where nature’s healing properties take center stage.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition At Luxor Commemorates 98th Anniversary Of RMS Titanic’s Sinking – Guests Invited to Share the Experience of Titanic’s Voyage and Passengers During Series of Events April 12-17. Enter into a journey of life on board Titanic’s maiden voyage and experience the tragic series of events that unfolded in the icy waters of the North Atlantic in 1912. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition invites guests to see the artifacts, hear the stories, walk the deck, feel the iceberg and share the experience through a series of events April 12 û 17. Visiting guests can enjoy complimentary guided tours, specialty drinks, a survivor’s party, high tea and the chance to win a grand prize package.

The Las Vegas Sock Market Opens At The Shoppes At Mandalay Place – The Las Vegas Sock Market offers a full variety of hosiery and footwear items for men, women and children in every color, style, pattern and size. Featuring socks for everyday use or specialty fun, the boutique provides an array of professional, exercise, animal and team logo socks as well as stockings and tights. Designed to resemble a stock market, The Las Vegas Sock Market offers a playful business theme with sections of “preferred socks” and “blue chip socks.” “Sock Certificates” also are available for your holiday shopping needs.

Rock & Rita’s ‘Great American Party’ Coming to Circus Circus – New Bar, Dining And Entertainment Concept Opens In June – The “Great American Party” will arrive at Circus Circus with the June opening of Rock & Rita’s, a new bar, restaurant and entertainment hot spot. Flair bartending, live music and festive signature dishes will be the focus at this 14,000 sq. ft rock-inspired venue. “Rock & Rita’s will take Circus Circus’ visitors to a new level of interactive partying,” David Z. Tuttleman said who, along with partner Mark Green, comprise the duo of Las Vegas restaurateurs behind the project. “It’s a continuous, high-energy gathering in an atmosphere designed to unleash your inner party animal.”

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Dirty Harry: Make My Day – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and later also show you some of the great new slots that are about to be released. In this issue, I present: Dirty Harry: Make My Day video slot machine from WMS.

I own a collection of most of Clint Eastwood”s movies, on DVD, among which is the complete collection of the famous Dirty Harry films. In the early 1970s Clint Eastwood was a major movie star û as indeed he continues to be to this day û and, among his many credits, became the iconic star of a series of films based on the fictional San Francisco police officer Harry Callahan, dubbed “Dirty Harry”. In the first of these movies came the memorable line “Make my day!” and that is the title of this great new video slot machine from WMS, in the Sensory Immersion Gaming format. Click to Read Complete Article…


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We are visiting Las Vegas beginning of June 2010. It is a joint 40’th Ruby wedding anniversary and we would like to go on the Sunday brunch cruise on the Contessa at Lake Las Vegas. We are staying at the Flamingo Hotel and wonder if you know if we can get a bus from the strip or bus terminal that will take us there or would it have to be a taxi if a taxi how much will it cost. We are planning to fit in a lot of trips and are trying to get value for money wherever we can. Love your newsletter keep up the good work.

Jen from England

Ted Responds:

Congrats on the anniversary. That is amazing and no better spot to celebrate it than here in Las Vegas!

You are easily looking at a $40+ cab ride each way. Unfortunately, no city bus service or other service.

However… they have just announced a free shuttle from The Strip to Lake Las Vegas. We are trying to confirm if it is just for Lake Las Vegas hotel guests, or open to the general public. We should have that information next week.


Returned from our trip (been coming twice a year since 1976) to Vegas, Feb 3 -6th. We were not able to stay for the Super Bowl but the 4 days were great. Despite what others have been saying, Vegas is alive and well and lots of bargains can still be found.

We journeyed down to Primm (wife likes the outlet mall) and it was like a ghost town. We went into two of the casinos and it was like we were the only ones there and the buffet and cafes were closed in one of them.

While in Vegas one of the best shows we have been to was Gordie Brown at the Golden Nugget. The show was fantastic and I would recommend it to anyone coming to Vegas. Well worth the money spent.

I would still like to see the “Smut Peddlers” banned completely from the strip as they are very annoying and refuse to accept a no. We always try to avoid them, but they still flick those cards and try to stick them in your face. I.N.S. should show up there as I bet almost all of them are illegals as they “NO HABLA” English since they cannot understand the word NO.

When we come in Feb. we always stay at the Nugget downtown as it is a great place to stay and everyone who works there is friendly and treats you like they really appreciate the fact that you are there. Not like some of the places on the strip. We are coming back for a week in July and are staying at the Flamingo (week was comped). We have never stayed there before, but stayed at most others.

Any tips on some good day time sight seeing 50 to 100 miles away? We will have a rental car as cabs are a big waste of money and they rip tourist’s off by taking the long way everywhere. I always look forward to my trips to Vegas, and contrary to what President Obama says, Vegas is a great place to come and visit.

Chuck Merica

Ted Responds:

I’m not sure we’ll very see a resolution to the guys handing out the “girls to your room” cards. However… since they are not allowed to touch you, I like to play the game of literally walking as absolutely close to them as I can. You can’t walk into them on purpose (that would be assault on your part), but if you walk like you are just about going to brush up against them, they back off.

I love visiting the Primm Outlet Mall and no question that with the current economy (and the 40 minute drive south of The Strip), not much action going on down there. If you want to go shopping, get something to eat and do a little gambling while enjoying plenty of elbow room, Primm is still worth checking out.

I’m actually working on a “suggested day trips” column (I’m about half done). Stay tuned. In the meantime, readers: Please use the contact information at the bottom of this section and let us know your favorite day (or half-day) ventures from Las Vegas.

The Golden Nugget is the class of downtown, and I’ll use this opportunity to answer an oft-asked questioned: Is there a club or lounge for people who are over 30 (or just not into the typical Las Vegas nightclub)? Yes, absolutely. Goldiggers at the Nugget attracts a crowd that is on average about 35-40. I say “on average” because you regularly see people from 25 to 55 and sometimes beyond and everyone has fun and gets along fine. Usually no cover before 10 PM and the second floor location gives you a great view of Fremont Street.

Goldiggers lounge at Golden Nugget Las Vegas on a perfect eve... on TwitpicGoldiggers has a very plush, boutique size (for a Vegas club) climate controlled indoor area with plenty of bar seating and a dance floor. The outdoor area also contains tables and a bar with very attentive cocktail service. A DJ is using playing 80’s pop and rock. It is a little bit on the loud side (it is a club). I only note that because if you want to just chill with a drink, try Fitgerald’s Vue Bar patio (open 24/7, no cover) instead.

Outdoor lounge of Sin City Brewing Co. at Flamingo overlookin... on TwitpicOn The Strip, a great place to just relax with a drink (beer, wine and cocktails) is on the patio of Sin City Brewing Company at The Flamingo. It overlooks the beautiful Flamingo gardens area in back of the hotel. No charge and often not very crowded. It is back by the gift shop and UPS store (on the way to the parking garage).

I answered a lot more than you asked, but that is why everyone has to read the whole newsletter. You never know when I’ll be spilling out info that you just aren’t going to get elsewhere!


We are going to be in Vegas April 09 to 16. We are a bit disappointed that Celine Dion is not going to be there. Oh well I guess we will have to wait till next year to see her. I have heard some rumors from friends that have just returned from Vegas and they have said that the slots have really tightened up. I hope that is not the case.

I see that there is the Ace and the Deuce running now. Are they the same Company ? If you buy a pass can it be used on either one ? Hopefully this will speed up traveling up and down the strip. Looking forward to being back in Vegas.

Brian from Canada

Ted Responds:

Anybody can have lots of luck or bad luck on a trip. Statistically, the slot hold (money the casinos keep per dollar bet) is about the same as last year (although has been increasing the hold — tightening the machines — over the past few years). Both the Ace and Deuce are part of our citywide bus service and hence, you can get a transfer from one to another. Thanks for reading and please tell your friends!


I have been going to Las Vegas 2 to 3 times a year. I have stayed on the strip and downtown. For the the best food for the price is downtown. I have found on the strip and downtown alike, you really don’t want to be walking around outside any casino/hotel after 3 AM.The homeless and drug dealers will be on you like flies on crap. On top of that I have had woman ask me (you know what I mean) if I want a good time.

All this will not stop me from enjoying your city. To enjoy Las Vegas You have to read your news letter and get information from people like me and you. I have a great time there every time I arrive to the time I leave. Keep up the good work.

Dale From Ohio


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!


For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

April 4, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe March 31, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! I’m celebrating a milestone this month: 17 years here in Las Vegas. Wow… it has certainly flown by. I was 27 when I showed up to town and the 90’s were a great time to be that age here.áNot without a few ups-and-downs, but certainly no regrets. Witnessing the explosive growth in both the Strip and the residential areas has been mind-bending. I’ve seen more implosions and construction than I ever dreamed.áI’m looking forward to another 17 years here and then some.

Living here this long has led to some interesting insights (which I’ll share later in this column) regarding who likes it here, who doesn’t and what the future may hold. As always, if you just want to get on to the “what is there to do on my next visit” stuff, just scroll past the commentary segments that do not interest you.

$481.57 – Is the average gaming budget per person in 2009, down nearly 10% from a year ago. No surprise given the tight economy and the (deserved) perception that slots are tighter and table game rules (particularly blackjack) are less player-friendly. Only 83% of all visitors gambled, and first-time visitorship was up slightly.

This is all incredibly ironic as those who have never visited consider Las Vegas to be a gambling destination and don’t understand any other reason one would want to visit. However, many of you return home and tell them about the incredible shows, celeb chef and award winning restaurants, tours (you have not lived until you have seen the Grand Canyon — check out the Western Territory tour banner on the right sidebar) and simple carefree fun and (usually) sun that we offer. Keep spreading the word and remind them to subscribe to our newsletteráor at least read it online. A few weeks of reading and anyone will be convinced of the amazing variety of activities Las Vegas offers!

Ace and Deuce Bus Route Notes – The changes have been made in the bus line(s) that serve visitors. Once there was only The Deuce which ran from downtown Fremont Street all the way to the south end of The Strip. And it took (literally) forever because it stopped every block.

The best way to think of the new Ace and Deuce service is this (thinking in terms of a subway, metro rail or similar):

The Ace is the limited-stop express. The Deuce is the local service. If you near an Ace stop and the place you are going to is near an Ace stop, by all means get right on the Ace. However, if you are nowhere near an Ace stop, get on the Deuce (which stops every few hundred feet) and take it to the very next stop that it shares with the Ace. Get off and wait for The Ace.

Now… if you are headed between two locations nowhere near an Ace stop (For example, Tropicana to Harrah’s), just stay on The Deuce. It will take you more time to transfer. However, if headed to the Convention Center, Fremont Street downtown, either outlet mall,áTown Square or a hotel with an Ace stop, absolutely jump from Deuce to Ace at the first available stop they both share. (If you are new to this conversation, please read Las Vegas New ACE Bus Service Strip-to-Downtown Pictures and Info).

Station Casinos Breakup – Some of you may have heard that Station Casinos (in bankruptcy) might sell off all but four properties, essentially leaving the founding Fertitta family with Red Rock, Palace Station, Boulder Station,áSunset Station, and the Wild Wild West (which I believe the family still sees the spot they will eventually build a Palms-like property). This is just an early proposal and we’ll let you know if it progresses. A surprising number of you who come to town for extended stays and rent a car tell us you really enjoy the various Station properties.

I Was Wrong – A few weeks ago, I noted (as an educated guess) that approximately 20% of the people living in Las Vegas didn’t like it here (and noted that the town will be better off when those people leave). A recent UNLV survey puts that figure at 40%. No lie… 40% of those living here don’t like it but many can’t leave because they are upside down in their house, can’t find work if they moved or similar.

Understand that some of that dissatisfaction is due to where someone is at in life. If you are upside down on your home and unemployed (or under-employed) you probably won’t be happy anywhere. But there is a significant swath of the population for whom living here simply does not agree with them. This is NOT a normal city by any stretch of the imagination. And, I hope it never becomes one!

These numbers dovetail in with some other recent stats: Visitor volume is roughly where it was in 2004. The job base (the amount of jobs in town) is at 2004 numbers. We had a population of 1.7 million in 2005. In many respects, the addition of that last 200,000 people who moved here the last five years pretty much sunk the boat. We are an island in the desert with tourism as our main economic driver and in reality can only comfortably sustain so many residents. Take away 200,000 people and our unemployment rate goes below the national average and would be in line with the long-time tradition of Nevada being recession-proof. (Current unemployment in the Las Vegas area: 13.9%).

Now, don’t get me wrong: This is not a blanket condemnation of those who moved here during any certain time period. I have deep appreciation for recently minted residents who embrace and love Las Vegas, Nevada for what it is (as opposed to those who come from somewhere else, then want to turn us into the area they came from). And, there will always be room for those who are Nevadans at the core of their soul.

But, we’ll be a lot better place to live once those who don’t embrace this nutty city give up and move back. After all, those are always the people telling us how great their previous city was. If it was that great, please return to it! Once we get back to all the people serving you while you are here being people who truly love the area and appreciate our visitors, we’ll see many decades to come of Las Vegas being the greatest place to vacation on earth.

Las Vegas Streaming Video Circa 1991 – I found some great YouTube video of someone who filmed their drive up the entire Las Vegas Strip nearly 20 years ago. In which is pretty much looks like it did when I showed up in town. Well worth tanking a couple minutes to enjoy whether you remember Las Vegas from this time, or just want to go “Wow… it looks so different”. Check out Las Vegas Circa 1991 Driving The Strip from the Welcome Sign

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Rhumbar Brings In “The Cooler” – Rhumbar’s Refreshing New Cocktail Will Cool Down The House – With the Vegas weather heating up, RHUMBAR, the stylish drink spot with a Strip-view patio at The Mirage, has decided to bring in “The Cooler.”

“The Cooler” recipe:
1 Grapefruit wedge
1 Lime wheel
1 Orange wheel
10 Mint leaves
¥ Rock candy
1.5 oz Bacardi O
Splash of Sprite
Muddle together the grapefruit, lime, orange, mint and rock candy in a zombie glass. Add rum and stir. Add a splash of Sprite and garnish with a mint sprig. To be enjoyed outside on RHUMBAR’s lush 3,000-square-foot patio, cigar optional.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Presents Rockin’ Mariachi Sundays – Brunch Specials And Live Mariachi Entertainment To Spice Up The Weekend – Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina presents Rockin’ Mariachi Sundays, a sizzling new brunch featuring Mexican-inspired brunch specialties and live Mariachi music by Los Viajeros every Sunday. In addition to Cabo Wabo’s traditional menu, the Mariachi Brunch will offer Mexican favorites including chorizo, egg and cheese tacos, a big breakfast burrito filled with chorizo, scrambled eggs and cheese, and the huevos rancheros which includes two corn tortillas topped with chorizo, scrambled eggs, red sauce and cheese. Drink specialties include Bloody Marias, micheladas and classic mimosas.

Sweet Twist On Easter Treats At Jean Philippe Patisserie In Vegas’ CityCenter – World-renowned pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury of Jean Philippe PÔtisserie in ARIA Resort & Casino may already be known for his artistic expressions in the dessert world but he is springing forward with his newly available treats, just in time for Easter. He is combining ultimate indulgence with adorable figures to celebrate the sweet side of the holiday. Jean-Philippe Maury is the executive pastry chef at Jean Philippe PÔtisserie inside ARIA at Vegas’ newest Strip development, CityCenter. The European-style pastry shop specializes in cakes, crepes, panini, pastries, cookies and a variety of chocolates featuring an exclusive line of bonbons and truffles and 24 house-made gelatos in unexpected flavors.

Casino Essentials Opens At Luxor – Casino Essentials sells an array of womenÆs purses and shoes from such noted brands as Steve Madden, Baby Phat and Betseyville. Also available are assorted snacks, liquors and non-alcoholic beverages. The store, formerly the site of Fashion 101, is located adjacent to LAX Nightclub on the casino floor. Casino Essentials is open Wednesday û Saturday from 4 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.

Two Days Of Free, Open-To-The Public All-Star Concerts With Lady Antebellum & Miranda Lambert At Fremont Street Experience Friday, April 16 & Saturday, April 17, 2010 – The Academy of Country Music is hosting two days of all-star concerts at the Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas during The Week Vegas Goes CountryÖ! ACM Weekend on Fremont Street Experience will feature top newcomer category winners, Luke Bryan, Joey + Rory and Gloriana, special guests and headliners Lady Antebellum and Miranda Lambert performing on two different stages to crowds downtown. The weekend-long party leading up to the 45th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards is sponsored by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and will feature Emily West, The Band Perry, Danny Gokey, David Nail and Lady Antebellum on April 16, 2010 and Joey + Rory, Gloriana, Randy Rogers Band, Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert on April 17, 2010.

Men Of “X” Whistle Dixie’s At Hooters Casino Hotel – Men of “X,” the sexy male revue at Hooters Casino Hotel, is taking its show to another level û eye level that is û with their move from the Night Owl Showroom into Dixie’s Dam Bar. The show, which just celebrated its first anniversary, will become even more interactive inside the 3,000 sq. ft. space, allowing the Men easy access to mingle with their audience. “Dixie’s Dam Bar is a great venue for the Men of ‘X’ to showcase their assets up close and intimately interact with the ladies,” said producers Angela and Matt Stabile. “The show will really become more like one big party with everyone dancing out of their seats.”

M Resort Spa Casino Announces April/May “As Single As I Wanna Be” Saturdays Inside Hostile Grape – Back by popular demand, the Hostile Grape, the city’s sexiest wine bar at the M Resort Spa Casino, announces all new themes for its “As Single As I Wanna Be” Saturday events. Quickly becoming the Saturday hot spot for singles, the Hostile Grape’s “As Single As I Wanna Be” Saturday parties provide the perfect atmosphere for guests to drink, dance and flirt the night away starting at 8 p.m. Throughout the month of April and May, different themes will be offered weekly where participating guests can receive a complimentary bottle of wine*.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Open The Vault – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and later also show you some of the great new slots that are about to be released. In this issue, I present: Open The Vault video slot machine from WMS.

This game uses what are called “cascading reels”. In place of traditional reel spins, the reel symbols cascade into place as if dropped from above. All winning combinations pay as normal, but then something extra happens. The symbols in the winning combination disappear and new symbols cascade down to take their place. This process continues until no new winning combinations appear. Click to Read Complete Article…


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I come to Vegas a couple of times a year, last 2 times stayed downtown, the first at the Plaza, disappointing, second time at the Nugget, great room, friendly staff, love the short walks to the many casinos, felt safe the whole time, which was not true 15 years ago on my short visits downtown. Love Vegas, will stay downtown on next trip as well, enjoy your newsletter!

Susan Roberts

Ted Responds:

Downtown has unquestionably changed radically in the past 15 years. Some hotels like The Plaza are badly in need of room upgrades (which won’t happen until the economy turns) but OK if you are just looking for somewhere to crash. The Golden Nugget just finished a nice new tower and is well worth staying at for the money right now.

Downtown has changed drastically since I moved here (which wasn’t long before your original visit). Plenty of security and a friendly party atmosphere that is lots of fun without getting out-of-control.


We will be in Vegas from 4/17/2010 to 4/23/2010 and want for a change to visit more of the off strip casinos? Which do you recommend?

Gail from Cheektowaga, NY

Ted Responds:

If you don’t have a car or just want a quick taste of “locals” casinos, visit the Gold Coast (across the street from The Palms). The Orleans (just a couple miles west of the MGM on Tropicana) is actually pretty nice for a locals place that has been around a while.

As noted in recent newsletters, The Deuce bus route (that runs The Strip) now terminates at Palace Station. Note: Nothing wrong with Palace (it is my “locals” place to go bet sports,áput a few bucks in video poker, or grab an inexpensive buffet that is decent for the money), but it is a very run-of-the-mill place with no extra draw except for good food values. Of note: Pasta Palace (inside Palace Station) just won the Best Of Las Vegas in the local paper readers poll for Italian restaurant in a casino. And, the have All-You-Can-Eat Pasta for $8.99 From 4pm û 5:30pm. Oh, and it is a nicer place than Olive Garden.

M Resort is well worth seeing (very, very nice — nicer than some Strip properties), and they have a free shuttle for the 15 minute ride down there (less time than it takes to get from one end of The Strip to the other). Sam’s Town has a free shuttle from Harrah’s and you can walk to the (relatively new) Cannery East from Sam’s Town. As shuttle info always changes, call the hotel in question when you arrive for details.

If you have a car, hit the M and South Point one day. And/or Hit Boulder Station, Arizona Charlie’s East, Sam’s Town, and Eastside Cannery on another.

Speaking of food values, check the menus at the locals casino restaurants when you visit. Generally much cheaper than The Strip, and since they have to cater to locals (who won’t come back if something is bad), you’ll often fine a very nice dining experience.


We just arrived back home after 6 days at the Rio. Had a wonderful time as always. We went to the Terry Fator show and it was the best show I have seen in Vegas in a long time. Terry is very gracious to the audience, thanks them often, lets you take pictures, even allows short videos on your cell phones. The show makes you laugh, cry and love life. It is a must when you are in Vegas.

The only problem we had was with Showtime Shuttle bus. We reserved a handicap shuttle, they send a regular shuttle, when the handicap bus arrived the driver was rude, demanding an made me help put my husband on the lift. I called and complained to Showtime shuttle and called the Rio concierge who made the reservation, so they would be aware of the poor service. Then, the driver drove 30 mph from the Rio to the airport, knowing we were running late due to their mistake, to show us he was in charge. We had the last word, when we left him standing outside the shuttle without a tip.

Connie from Hawthorne, FL

Ted Responds:

Everybody raves about Terry Fator. People questioned how a “puppet show” would work on The Strip, but Factor’s ability to combine his ventriloquist and impressionist talents have been a big hit.

No question that you handled your complaints the right way. Tips are to be earned. Don’t get me wrong… I have no problem tipping (and tipping well) for good, helpful service. Especially if they go the extra mile. But, do not hesitate to withhold tips and also complain if service is lacking. With the economy the way it is today (local unemployment over 13%), people should be thankful they have a job and do their best to provide optimal customer service to our visitors.


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!


For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

March 31, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe March 23, 2010

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Holy cow and my-oh-my (to use family friendly phrases)… is Las Vegas ever packed and jumping. The scares regarding Mexican travel have helped push an extra-large spring break crowd our way. Add March Madness to that and people are partying like it is 2005.

And… we’d have some video of the above. But it is in the middle of an 11 hour YouTube upload. So, we’ll have that next week.

ACE Service In Operation! – I was surprised at the significant number of emails that came in here about the new express ACE bus service to downtown. So on a beautiful, sunny day this past week, we actually drove the route.

The ACE has designated lanes throughout much of downtown. Although it will mingle with traffic on The Strip, it makes only a handful of stops and thus should provide a much quicker trip. As noted, The Deuce no longer goes downtown. If you stay aboard northbound, you’ll get an enjoyable trip over to Palace Station instead. Granted, Palace Station is similar to most of the downtown hotel casinos. But… it certainly isn’t downtown.

ace-bus-service-downtown-las-vegas-march-2010-07
Note: the 5’th Avenue Liquor Sign (pictures here above the Ace stop) is one of the many historic Las Vegas signs being refurbashed and put on display as public art throughout the downtown area. The Neon Boneyard is under renovation and will becomse a public park/display serving the same purpose. More on this in a future issue.

ace-bus-service-downtown-las-vegas-march-2010-04

Yes, you can transfer from The Deuce to The Ace (or visa-versa). Same bus company. However, NOT the same company that owns the monorail so no transfers there. Our tip? Both buses share stops along The Strip. Make the transfer over to the ACE (from Deuce) as quickly as possible to save the most travel time. Routes, pricing and other details available at Las Vegas New ACE Bus Service Strip-to-Downtown Pictures and Info

Las Vegas Podcasts – No, me doing one is not yet on the radar. Maybe down the road as I transfer some of my duties to new staffers we are looking to bring on. In the meantime, I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with the people behind a couple of other very informative Las Vegas podcasts you may want to check out:

  • The Vegas Tourist – Mark and Sazzy take you on a wild ride through everything Las Vegas. Mark is a professional tour guide and Sazzy is a member of the paparazzi (shooting red carpet events regularly) and these two can tell you what is going on in their own inimitable way.áMight take a couple episodes to get familiar with all the cast of characters so just hang tight. They have interviewed people ranging from casino owners to high profile (and now retired) mobsters to famous race car drivers and more. Both are originally from Minnesota and bring their Midwest twist to this fun, home-grown show.
  • Living In Las Vegas – Scott and Melissa Whitney escaped Silicon Valley about six years ago have have not looked back. On their second marriage and with college-aged kids, they live in the Las Vegas suburb of Aliante. Scott owns Podworx (check them out if you need to be doing audio or video streaming for your company or group) and Melissa is an Human Resources expert who has worked for major hotel casino companies here. You’ll learn the good, bad, funny, and amusing of what it is like to call Las Vegas your home. Topics range from their “Staycations” on The Strip to their lives and neighborhood issues. Basically, the ability to follow a couple as they live in Las Vegas.

BTW, there are a number of other great Las Vegas podcasts and I’m in the process of reaching out to the people who do them to maybe have a bite or libation together and we’ll look to feature them down the road.

Anybody Remember These Things? – This is an old school video poker machine. No bill acceptors. It takes in (and spits out) real quarters. These particular ancient models were on their way out when I moved here in 1993. The Plaza still had a few up through the late 90’s and I’d get a kick out of buying a roll of quarters and feeding the machine one-quarter-at-a-time. Old school, nearly full pay 9/6 Jacks or better. None of the new, rip-off triple-double-mega-
bonus-whatever.

So why am I bringing this up? I took this photo last week. The machine (and a number of it’s siblings) are fully functional and running at the (still relatively new) Cannery East on Boulder Highway. They have an entire section of functioning, retro machines! Getting to The Cannery is actually pretty easy. Catch the free shuttle from The Strip to Sam’s Town (call Sam’s Town for current operational times) then take the 1/2 mile walk or quick cab ride down the street to Cannery.

Yuma, Redding, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Tuscon – Florida may call itself the Sunshine State, but if you really want some sunshine, the cities just listed are the top 5 cities based on percentage of annual sunshine. Reno came in at #8. Florida’s highest ranking cities? Key West was #12 and Miami was #27. Now… please, no hate mail from Florida. I enjoy visiting the state and you have something we don’t: Beaches! You can see the complete list of cities here.

Claim Your Baggage, And Your Liquor! – Serious consideration is being given to putting a liquor store in the baggage claim area at Las Vegas’ McCarran Airport. Savvy travelers already have their cab stop at a liquor store on the way to their hotel, and the airport (operated by the county) could use the revenue to keep the costs to the airlines low. One of the reasons that Las Vegas is one of the more affordable places to fly into is that everything is done to keep the local ticket surcharges and airline fees low so the savings is passed on to you.

Another thing we’re seeing more and more of are people buying cheap disposable styrofoam ice chests when they arrive and buying a couple cases of beer to fill them. Add ice from the hallway ice machine, and you have instant in-room refrigeration. On a similar note: Price of a Heineken at Wynn/Encore? $7 dollar. Price at Sam Boyd’s Fremont Hotel downtown? $2 dollars.

R.I.P. Lee Pete – Who the hell is Lee Pete? Only probably the most legendary sports radio guy to ever hit the Las Vegas airwaves. If you live in one of the 11 western states where 720 AM KDWN can be heard overnight and were flipping around the dial in the 80’s and 90’s, you probably caught his show at one time or another.

One of his major sponsors locally was the Four Aces Menswear Shop downtown. They advertised Florsheim shoes and every color of Sansabelt slacks available in sizes up to 60. (I’m not making any of this up). I’ve never owned Florsheims or Sansabelts, but loved listening to Lee, both when I live in Portland, Oregon (where KDWN comes in great at night), and after moving here. He hung up the mic at the age of 76 and passed at 85 after suffering from ALS the past few years. Rarely without a cigar or an fascinating (and colorful but true) story, one of his favorite quotes was “Nothing scares me. I’ve been married twice”. Lee was a part of old Vegas and will be missed.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Las Vegas Show Reviews

Frank Caliendo: Impressionist Master

frank caliendo comedian las vegas

Only in Las Vegas might one find a gathering of politicians, celebrities, icons and even puppets together on one stageàin this case, all these personalities are voiced by a lone performer. Popular comedian and “MadTV” alum Frank Caliendo headlines at the Monte Carlo, presenting his much celebrated and beloved impressions of stars and celebs including John Madden, Dr. Phil, George W. Bush and Al Pacino. Boasting some of the StripÆs most comfortable accommodations, including legroom aplenty, the Lance Burton Theatre houses the impressionistÆs show from Thursday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m., as well as Sunday and Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Entering the theatre, guests may purchase cocktails from a handsome bar just outside the showroom. Once the audience is settled in the grand theatre, a live band performs rock classics and campy TV theme songs, warming up the eager audience. The band also occasionally accompanies Caliendo during the show. Next, comedian George Cantor provides the opening act prior to CaliendoÆs anticipated appearance.


Dennis Miller Returns To The Orleans Showroom Las Vegas – Following multiple successful engagements in The Orleans Showroom in 2009, five-time Emmy Award winner and crowd favorite Dennis Miller brings his hilarious stand-up routine back to venue, April 16, 17 and 18. Celebrated as a witty comedian with an entertaining and intriguing stand-up routine, Miller keeps audiences laughing with his irreverent observations.

Caesars Palace Las Vegas Debuts Eight Stunning New Pool Experiences For World-Renowned “Garden Of The Gods” – Five-Acre Oasis Creates New Destination for Sun-Worshippers, Gods and Goddesses. With the famed Las Vegas pool season about to heat-up into full swing, Caesars Palace in Las Vegas is ready to take the summer crown with the inspired new Garden of the Gods pool oasis, which makes its grand debut on Friday, March 19.

Note: Link below contains streaming video of Caesars and the Garden Of The Gods new pool experiences. Check it out:

Bellagio Establishes New Record As Home To The Most Master Sommeliers In The WorldBellagio is proud to announce the appointment of Darius Allyn, a distinguished member of the Court of Master Sommeliers, to the position of Sommelier for Osterio de Circo and Sensi. Allyn becomes the fourth on the already impressive team of Master Sommeliers, joining Joseph Phillips of MICHAEL MINA, Robert Smith of Picasso and Director of Wine Jason Smith. This honor further validates Bellagio’s commitment to excellence and establishes it as the only hotel in the world with four Master Sommeliers at a single property.

Rhumbar Offers Signature Mojito And Premium Montecristo Cigar Pairing – RHUMBAR, the stylish cocktail lounge at The Mirage, has paired two of its signature specialties û hand-muddled libations and fine cigars û and made them available in one enticing offer. Throughout the month of March, cocktail lovers and cigar aficionados will enjoy RHUMBAR’s signature mojito paired with a premium Montecristo cigar, available for just $20 through the end of March 2010. “The mint mojito is an ideal complement to the medium-bodied Montecristo cigar,” said Michael Frey, owner of RHUMBAR. “The smooth, creamy texture of the tobacco counterbalances the tartness of the lime and sweetness of the rock candy syrup for a well rounded pairing.”

Giada De Laurentiis Visits Miracle Mile Shops To Sign Copies of Giada at Home – Bestselling author and Food Network star, Giada De Laurentiis, will personalize her new cookbook Giada at Home: Family Recipes from Italy and California and greet fans at Sur La Table inside Miracle Mile Shops Monday, April 5 at 5 p.m. Fans must have a ticket to gain access to the cookbook signing and meet and greet. Tickets can be obtained by purchasing a copy of Giada at Home: Family Recipes from Italy and California at Sur La Table’s Miracle Mile Shops location any time between now and April 5.

‘The Ultimate Tribiute To Sir Elton John & Billy Joel’ Opens At Las Vegas Rocks CafÚ’s Embassy Theatre – “The Ultimate Tribute to Sir Elton John & Billy Joel” starring veteran tribute artists Jeffrey Allen and Michael John will open for a limited engagement at the Las Vegas Rocks CafÚ’s Embassy Theatre on Thursday, March 25, 2010. They will headline on Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 9 p.m. Jeffrey Allen and Michael John have joined forces to create a highly successful show that has audiences raving. Just like the original tour, each artist performs a solo set with a killer five-to-six piece rock ‘n’ roll band, and then culminate the show with a face-to-face set featuring both of them playing together on two pianos and trading off lyrics on each song they perform.

Jackson Browne With Special Guest David Lindley At Hard Rock Las Vegas – Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne will take to the road this summer with his band and longtime friend and musical co-conspirator David Lindley. Comprising dates in the U.S. and Europe, the Jackson Browne with David Lindley Tour follows the May 11 release of Love Is Strange (Inside Recordings), a 2-CD live set capturing a tour of Spain that Browne and Lindley did in 2006. Stateside, the Jackson Browne with David Lindley Tour gets underway July 20 at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

Sexy Sirens Of TI Sizzle Into Summer Season At Treasure Island Las VegasTreasure Island changed the schedule for its popular Sirens of TI show, which appears nightly in Sirens Cove near the casino’s entrance. The Sirens of TI features a clash between mesmerizing Sirens and their rebel pirate prey, transforming a 17th century story with a 21st century twist of song, dance, seduction and danger. New schedule in link below.

Carole King And James Taylor ‘Troubadour Reunion’ Tour Comes To Las Vegas – Iconic recording artists Carole King and James Taylor announced additional North American dates for the highly anticipated “Troubadour Reunion” tour which features a stop at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, July 17. This once-in-a-lifetime, intimate, in-the-round performance will bring two of the most beloved singer/songwriters together on tour for the first time in four decades.

Actor and comedian, Martin Lawrence was at Rain Nightclub inside Palms Casino Resort Friday night (3.19.10) with 15 of his friends. Sitting at a table on stage next to the DJ, they drank Kettle One with Red Bull. Later that evening a Playboy Bunny presented Lawrence with a coveted Playboy Club key. Photo Credit Sean O’Neil

Cool Off This Summer At Miracle Mile Shops With A Frozen Treat From Red Mango – Red Mango, a pioneer in all-natural frozen yogurt, is now open inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Red Mango frozen yogurt is all-natural, nonfat, gluten-free and freshly delivered to each store. Red Mango combines tantalizing flavors such as Original, Pomegranate and Tangomonium with fresh and delicious toppings including mango, banana, raspberries, granola, mochi, almonds and more to create a nutritious dessert. Perfect for any time of day, the Miracle Mile Shops location offers frozen yogurt, fruit parfaits, smoothies, iced teas and more.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Carnival of Mystery – with Victor H. Royer. As promised, in this issue û and the following issues û I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and later also show you some of the great new slots that are about to be released. In this issue, I present: Carnival of Mystery video slot machine from IGT.

This is the fascinating Carnival of Mystery video slot machine from IGT, presented in the Game King Upright 19″ video cabinet. Click to Read Complete Article…


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just got back to NY after spending a wonderful week with the wifey in your town! This was her first time and she hit for $1000.00 bucks on that BIG slot machine in the Nugget by Fremont St! What a thrill for her! Was comped at the Palazzo and Sahara for a total of 8 days! Palazzo was awesome. Standard rooms (mini-suites) are drop-dead gorgeous!

The Sahara on the other hand needs to renovate badly! I realize I’m talking apples and oranges here but it really does need a little updating! My only real gripe is the extravagant add-on costs of renting a car at the airport. With all the misc. taxes and fees, the cost of the weekly rental is actually DOUBLED by the time it is added up! Keep up the good work!

Ruben & Kathy from Chester, NY

Ted Responds:

You certainly got to see both ends of the spectrum: One of the nicest places in town, and one of the more moderately priced hotels.

The owner of The Sahara still has big plans to make it really nice. But… those will wait until better economic times.

I agree that the high airport rental car taxes leave a very bad taste in people’s mouth. So much of the room taxes are basically wasted, that if rental car taxes were lowered and room taxes were used more effectively, it would be a win-win for all. We’ll keep fighting the good fight for all our visitors.

Great to hear about the huge win. Even more fun on those big machines because there are usually people standing around watching you play!


You have a wonderful and informative newsletter. I used to drive longhaul truck and would get through Vegas every couple of months. I got off the road about a year before Star Trek the Experience closed. I used to stop there every time I was in town. Any word on when or if it really is going to reopen at Neonopolis?? Thank you for your time

Robert D.

Ted Responds:

No new word as of yet. And no real word on why it didn’t open. We’ll let you know if we ever find out anything. However (while I’m at it), those who keep asking about the Lady Luck will be pleased to know that plans should be coming before the city within the next couple of months. What morons they were to close that place down. Hopefully, it will be back in some semblance of what it was.


Great to keep up with the news from Vegas each week looking forward to my next visit in May. Have I read the new buses correctly? as the new bus service on the Ace seems to make the strip journey worse if you are staying at the north end.

For instance we stay at Circus and to get to Fremont or the Outlets we will now have to travel down to Fashion Show on the Deuce and cross over to the Wynn to pick up the Ace and then travel back up. And again if we visit the Outlets South we will have to get off the Deuce at Mandalay and transfer to the Ace. Will this not cause a bottleneck at both transfer points?? The old route long as it was seems so much simpler to me. Get on/off at Circus and on/off at Riviera.

Karen from Jersey

Ted Responds:

Travel from Circus and Riviera will now involve a transfer if you want to go downtown or south of Mandalay. We advise the following:

1. Spend the few bucks on a cab to get you to the nearest Ace stop. The Sahara for northbound (Ace stops behind the Sahara across from the monorail stop), Fashion Show Mall for southbound.

2. If you get on The Deuce first, transfer to the Ace ASAP. For example southbound, take the Deuce to the Fashion Show mall then switch to the Ace if going all the way to the Belz Outlet Mall down on the south strip. On your return trip, take the Ace all the way to Wynn then transfer back to Deuce.

People will be transferring at any number of stops. And… by the time the Ace hits Mandalay Bay, it will be empty enough that there won’t be any issues.

Because the Ace will save so much time as an express route, it was really needed. The problem with the Deuce is that it was incredibly slow. So… now we have a local (Deuce) and express (Ace).


First of I would to thank you for the great job you do letting the world know all the goings on in Las Vegas. My wife and myself have been coming to Vegas 2-3 times a year since 2000. Never have we had a bad time. There never seems to be enough time in the day when we are in Vegas. In Vegas there is always something new to see and do. Whether itÆs a new hotel, show or dining you canÆt go wrong here.

I here some people complaining about the treatment. Well I am from New York and everyone has an bad day. We have never encountered any bad treatment in Vegas. If you canÆt just smile kick back enjoy this town with all it has to offer then your in the wrong town.

Thank you,

Mr. & Mrs. V

Ted Responds:

Thanks for putting things in perspective. Customer service issues have come to the forefront as hotels have cut staff due to the economy. But all-in-all, I’ve found that if you treat the help nicely (and a nominal tip here and there when deserved doesn’t hurt), service here is still pretty darn good when compared to some other areas.

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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!


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All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
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March 23, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe March 17, 2010

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The great news: Spring has spung and temps have been (and will continue to be) in the 70’s. It has been NICE, pools are opening up, The Strip is crowded even on weekdays. St. Patrick’s day was out-of-control (in a good way).

Look over our Las Vegas St. Patrick’s DayáEvent List 2010 to see what you missed, and see if you need to be thinking about booking for next year. In the meantime, try this one of for size at home:

St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail At Fusion Mixology Bar – Drink name: The Height of Folly; Bar: Fusion Mixology Bar, The Palazzo Las Vegas

Ingredients:
2 oz. Bushmills Irish Whiskey
1 oz. Bailey’s Irish Cream
¢ oz. Half n Half syrup
¢ oz. simple syrup
Garnish: “Green” white chocolate syrup swirl in glass
How to assemble cocktail: Shake and strain into Martini glass

Why Not Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday? – Given the rousing success of St. Patrick’s day, I’m completely surprised that Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday are not more actively promoted here in Las Vegas. Yes, Mardi Gras is associated with New Orleans (although it is celebrated in many Southern U.S. cities). But, Las Vegas’ forte is taking what other cities do well and putting it over the top with our own twist. New Years Eve has traditionally been linked to the New York City ball drop. We’ve blown the roof off of that one (see video of Las Vegas New Years Eve Fireworks). Super Bowl? More people come here to party and enjoy it than go to the host city. Fat Tuesday (the culmination of Mardi Gras)? Next to nothing.

We did head out for Fat Tuesday last month. First stop was Harrah’s and their Carnival Court. Carnival is “Mardi Gras” is other parts of the world. The celebration at Harrah’s? Zilch. On to downtown, where we credit the Fremont Street Experience for havingáDixieland (see above) and Zydeco bands getting the crowd in the mood. Some impromptu bead-tossing was going on from the Vue Bar at Fitzgerald’s (overlooking Fremont Street) and yes… women were doing what women do for beads. But as a whole, the celebration was poorly promoted and most of the people downtown were those who would have been there anyway.

I don’t expect the LVCVA (convention authority) to step up Mardi Gras promotion next year. We’re talking a group of people (LVCVA) who couldn’t find their posterier with both hands. However… if the Fremont Street Experience is more proactive on getting the word out earlier and if the major Strip Resorts craft some events and marketing around it, Mardi Gras 2011 in Las Vegas could easily pack the city with a memorable, festive event matching St. Patrick’s Day!

Lance Burton’s publicist provided us with this photo of Lance Burton with Siegfried and Roy at a recent Las Vegas magic gathering. While their performing days are over, it is good to see them together and Roy out-and-about in his magical circles. Lance Burton continues to be a great show every multi-visit Las Vegas tourist should enjoy. Click for Lance Burton Las Vegas Tickets.

New Bus Lines For You! – As promised, here are the links to the schedules and routes of the new bus routes serving the Las Vegas Strip and Fremont Street Downtown.

  • The Deuce – Will continue to serve the Las Vegas Strip from The Sahara to Mandalay Bay, making all of the present Deuce stops. The Deuce actually turns west at Sahara and continues on to Palace Station. Deuce Las Vegas PDF Route/Schedule
  • The Ace – New Service that will run from Las Vegas Premium Outlets downtown over to Casino Center Drive (cutting right through the middle of Fremont Street Experience) and on to The Strip. Important Note: This is a limited stop service along the Las Vegas Strip. It will make much better time than The Deuce, but beware to not overshoot your stop or you’re in for a long walk back! Ace Las Vegas PDF Route/Schedule

Both schedule changes (and new Ace service) start on March 28. I’ve read that the Ace service will be complimentary (no charge) the first week. Ace service requires ticket purchase at the bus stop (from a ticket machine) prior to boarding. Rides are $3 each or a $15 3-day pass can be bought online here.

Enjoy this issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:


Crosby, Stills & Nash – Friday, June 4 At The Joint At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – The legendary trio Crosby, Stills and Nash (CSN)ùDavid Crosby, Stephen Stills, and Graham Nashùwill tour the western United States in late spring, making a stop at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Friday, June 4. Most recently, CSN was a featured part of the all-star tribute to Neil Young û their longtime partner in Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young û at NARAS’ 2010 Person of the Year gala honoring Young that kicked off this year’s GRAMMY weekend festivities.

New Wynn Wine Bar Debuts Later 2010 – Wynn Las Vegas is proud to announce a partnership with the N9NE GroupÆs Michael Morton to open a wine bar at Wynn Las Vegas. Beginning Fall 2010, the wine bar will elevate the celebration of wine to a multi-sensory experience including food, mood and music with innovative design features. Intimate and edgy, the wine bar will feature handcrafted wines culled from the best vineyards around the world. A selection of artisanal beers, organic spirits and specialty cocktails will compliment the comprehensive wine list.

The wine bar will pair the sophistication of the wine with an accessible neighborhood hideaway to welcome the connoisseur and the novice alike. A gourmet, chef-driven menu serving house-made and artisanal charcuterie, farmhouse cheeses, hand-cut crudo, tapas Ó la plancha and bite-size desserts will also be offered. Musical inspiration will derive from rhythms from around the world including Italy, Spain, France, Argentina, Chile and Australia.

Matt Goss Live From Caesars Palace Produced By Robin Antin Debuts – Opening night of Matt Goss Live from Caesars Palace Produced by Robin Antin at The Gossy Room in Cleopatra’s Barge. Backed by a 9-piece band and sexy female dancers known as The Dirty Virgins, Goss’ new production blends original music from his “Gossy” album with classic covers influenced by the Rat Pack.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Presents March Entertainment Schedule – Live Entertainment Friday, Saturday and Sundays – Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina will rock out every Friday and Saturday night with live classic rock music beginning at 9:30 p.m. The rockin’ fiesta continues on Sunday with a Mariachi brunch featuring a live Mariachi band from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and live Rockstar Karaoke beginning at 9 p.m.

Barry Manilow Premieres New Show At Paris Las Vegas – Legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow is making music and magic at Paris Las Vegas with a new resident show. On Saturday, Manilow threw open the doors to the Paris Theatre at Paris Las Vegas with a reimagined stage show that is both more intimate and more exciting than ever before. Manilow will perform 78 shows each year for two years at Paris Las Vegas. The shows are produced by AEG Live in conjunction with Paris Las Vegas. Tickets for performances through July 18, 2010 are currently on-sale.

MGM Grand To Host An Evening With Sting And The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra Conducted By Steven Mercurio Friday, June 18 – Live Nation announced today that Sting, accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, will embark on a world tour this summer including a performance Friday, June 18 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Sting will perform his most celebrated songs re-imagined for symphonic arrangement while the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra will be conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio. Mercurio has conducted shows for other stars including Andrea Bocelli and the late Luciano Pavarotti. The concert spectacular is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

The First Todd English P.U.B. Now Open At Crystals At CityCenter Las Vegas – Celebrity Chef Todd English creates a modern interpretation on a traditional English pub with international draught beers and signature pub fare. Three-time James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Todd English debuts his latest culinary eatery, Todd English P.U.B. inside Crystals, CityCenter luxury retail and entertainment district. Todd English P.U.B. (an acronym for Public Urban Bar) is a modern interpretation of an authentic English pub.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Wizard of Oz – with Victor H. Royer. Along with Dorothy, and all the characters from the popular MGM Musical from 1939, Starring Judy Garland, in this video slot machine we are also invited to follow the yellow brick road to lots of pays. This game has a high hit frequency and many lines for lots of big pays.

There are 30 line with characters of Dorothy, Toto, and a three pack square with the Cowardly Lion, The Scarecrow, and the Tin Man. Also featured are Ruby Slippers, Houses, TornadoÆs, Hot Air Balloons, and of course the Wicked Witch of the West. In addition to the base game, there are also 3 different bonus rounds. Click to Read Complete Article…


Las Vegas Deals


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!


We got back yesterday and wanted to drop you a few lines. Saw David Copperfield, what a great show. Really cool that he comes out into the audience and does close up magic. He is great at what he does and surprisingly VERY funny.

BUT even better than David Copperfield was Viva Elvis at Aria in City Centre. Being a HUGE Elvis fan I was a bit skeptical of how they would portray Elvis and how the “impersonator” would be and having never seen a “Cirque” show how the acrobatics would fit in..

There is NO impersonator; Elvis is up there on a BIG screen in actual footage. The only other singers are four women that are great with some incredible voices. Whoever did the film editing is a genius û although the pictures change throughout a song the movement of his lips is ALWAYS right on cue.

The acrobatics are there but it is far more dancing/choreography numbers. There is one scene with trampolines that is absolutely unbelievable and will leave you positively amazed. After the show a reviewer from Belgium interviewed my daughter to get the take on the show from a younger generation point of view. She was thrilled to say the least.

She is already talking about our trip for next year and making plans. What a GREAT city, what a GREAT job you do. Keep up the hard work WE all so appreciate it and look forward to your newsletter each week..

Mark from Cape Cod, MA

Ted Responds:

Thanks so much for the great feedback and all the info about Viva Elvis (Cirque du Elvis Tickets). Local critics have been lukewarm to it and I have not seen it yet (had the invite, but had a conflict). BUT… the Cirque people note that it gets a standing ovation every time. So… looks like they might have a hit on their hands. And Aria has another way to get people all the way back to their hotel/casino which is a good hike from The Strip.


Love your newsletter, have been reading it for over 10 years.

I am very concerned over the way Las Vegas has lost its glitter, service is lousy, even the city buses break down often and all these construction sites vacant with no signs of any work being performed.

Someone needs to let the big shots know that a major attitude adjustment needs to be done for customers to feel like they are wanted, and casinos need to loosen up a bit on the the game payouts and give better service, otherwise it will remain bad or worse in the coming years. I will not be back and also letting all my friends and people I come in contact with that VEGAS is not a place to go for fun anymore.

G and K Smith from Fremont, CA

Ted Responds:

We’re stuck with the half-finished buildings for a while. Fortunately, most visitors just look at them and think “Oh, they are building something new there.”

Visitor volume is starting to rebound, the excitement vibe is coming back (people aren’t feeling as guilty to be here in light of the economy). With any luck, the next 2-3 years should bring improvements in customer service and resumption of construction on halted projects.

Las Vegas isn’t going anywhere. Sit it out for a while and see if you miss it or not. Try back in a couple of years. If there is one constant here, it is change. The pendulum is swinging back toward Las Vegas being the premier destination (for the money) in the U.S.


My wife and I love Vegas ! We would go 2 times a year if the plane fare wasn’t so high. We usually go one time a year but have missed a few in between. There is so much to see and do there. Went last year with 3 other couples and we were like the tour guides for them – they loved it. Please poke the airlines to make flights more affordable and you will see much more tourist there to spend money, I am sure this applies to everyone that reads this post.

Thanks,

Ray from Ellington, N.Y.


Didn’t I just read recently that the monorail (the one so far behind the casinos that you can’t even find it) is in trouble again. I always wonder… Why isn’t there an attractive, efficient easy to use elevated monorail that runs above the center of the strip from the airport to Fremont street?

Surely it would be a first rate feature in Vegas that every one would love to use. (Ever try riding the surface “Deuce” bus up the strip takes “hours”) Maybe Vegas could get the Feds to pay for it by calling it “high speed rail”.

Anyway, thanks for the nice Vegas news site.

Les from Ellicott City, MD

Ted Responds:

The monorail finally officially declared bankruptcy (which was no surprise). Cab companies (who are very, very powerful) would most likely fight any new kind of transport. Also, the monorail is a private entity and some wrangling would have to be done to get it qualified for federal funds. Having said that, with all the money in the trough for construction projects to stimulate the economy, it does seem interesting that there isn’t a bigger clamor for action.

As noted earlier in the issue, a new more express bus will be running down The Strip. Although it will still be subject to the traffic, fewer stops mean a quicker trip.

I’m with you 100%. I’ve wondered why not a big tram (the kind they have in Albuquerque and Palm Springs) running through the air high above each side of The Strip. Some way to get people around above the traffic with a great view. With the recession, traffic isn’t awful except on weekend and big conventions. But as things pick up again with the addition of new rooms, Strip traffic will be a big problem again.


I just wanted to let you know your newsletter is great. A group of six of us were in Las Vegas for the Valentine’s Day weekend. We had a great time. We stayed at The Flamingo. The staff was great. Our room was clean. But the food was not good. I would suggest to everyone going to Las Vegas to go to the Mandalay Bay and have their buffet. We went because my boyfriend read that it is the BEST buffet in Vegas and it DEFINITELY is. I can’t wait to go back.

Tara Audette

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great report. Flamingo often gets low marks for food, although as a seafood lover, I enjoy their buffet. (Those who are not into the “from the sea” stuff should skip it).

Top three buffets in Las Vegas are arguably Wynn, Bellagio, and Planet Hollywood. Although Mandalay Bay regularly gets high marks.

Thanks for reading and make sure to tell your friends to subscribe!


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events


Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!


For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

March 17, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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