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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 13, 2008

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We’re surviving what should be the last heat wave of the summer. September generally brings the daytime highs under 100 degrees (F) and pool weather lasts through October. November brings highs in the 60’s. If you live where it gets cold (rain/sleet/snow) as November rolls around, think about locking up a late fall Vegas vacation now (latest hotel deals later in the newsletter). You’ll be happy you did.

November also brings Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 27, 2008) here in the U.S. and it is a surprisingly busy four-day weekend here. All hotel restaurants from the coffee shops and buffets to the high end places serve an option of traditional Thanksgiving fare. Many families with members scattered in far flung places come together in Las Vegas to celebrate together. (Oh, and don’t forget the opportunity to bet and watch all those football games)!

June brought a 3% drop in visitors and a 1% decline in gaming revenue compared to June 2007. To be honest, that is negligible when you consider that 2007 was the biggest boom year ever for Las Vegas. All of the Vegas doom-and-bloom articles (mostly written by journalists thousands of miles from here) were way off the mark. Downtown seems especially busy as people search for retro-Vegas (reasonable room rates, food values, and gambling that gives them a shot at winning).

Local economic indicators are another story, especially with the construction bust (both residential and resort). For those thinking of moving here. let’s make this really simple: IF (and this is a big IF) you are independently wealthy, comfortably retired, or have a job you can conduct from anywhere (consultant or telecommute or similar where you simply need broadband and proximity to a major airport to get the job done), this is a great time to move here. áIf you want to move here and will need to look for a job… forget it.

Did You Know:

  • Main Street Station downtown offers self-guided tour of 20 historical antiques they have on site in their Artifacts, Antiques and Artworks tour. Everything from a pool table that once belonged to Winston Churchill to the Blackhawk rail car once used by Buffalo Bill Cody. Tour pamphlets are available at the hotel desk at no charge.
  • Big House Choppers of Nevada are custom choppers made by state prison employees. They are manufactured at the Desert Correctional Center (just north of Las Vegas) and actual prison bars are integrated into each bike. More info at www.bighousechoppers.net

More Las Vegas photos than ever will be available when we launch our new photo gallery in just a couple of weeks. (We are working out a few last bugs in it). Our weekly Vegas Photos feature will return at that time. In the meantime, our present Las Vegas Photo Gallery is still available to the public.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

Bally’s from $69, Bill’s from $48, Caesars from $140, Flamingo from $59, Harrah’s from $58, Imperial from $35, Paris from $90, Rio Suites from $58, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

á

Iconic Comedy Duo Cheech & Chong To Perform At The Pearl Concert Theater On October 18 – The infamous comedy duo Cheech & Chong will bring laughter to The Pearl Concert Theater on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. (Tickets) These two classic comedians will reunite as part of their first tour in 25 years, Light Up America. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong first hit the LA comedy scene in the early ’70s and immediately won over audiences with their wacky routines which captured the free spirited attitude of the times. Some of their most well-known routines were “Earache My Eye,” “Basketball Jones” and “Sister Mary Elephant.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Cher Unveils An Eyeful Of Glitter And Sequins As She Debuts A New Ensemble At Her Vegas Show In The Colosseum – Fans attending Cher’s Caesars Palace shows will be in for a glittery surprise as the pop diva debuts a new Bob Mackie creation for her closing number “Believe.” Returning to the stage after a two-month break, Cher’s show continues her 3-year run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The 90-minute show is presented at 7:30 p.m. four nights a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday (dark Monday, Thursday and Friday). Tickets for her show through Oct. 5 are now on sale.

á

Affliction “Day of Reckoning” To Las Vegas On Oct. 11 – Roy Englebrecht Events, Donald J. Trump, Affliction Entertainment in association with Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino present Affliction “Day of Reckoning” Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nev. Tickets Coming off the success of its inaugural fight card, “Affliction Banned,” Roy Englebrecht Events in association with Affliction Entertainment is pleased to announce Affliction “Day of Reckoning” featuring heavyweights Andrei Arlovski vs. Josh Barnett. Click to Read The Full Story …

Popular among Las Vegas Locals, Yellow Brick Road will play during Tropicana’s Mint Monday event at the pool on 8/18 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and 9-10 p.m. Live concert, swimming, volleyball, dancing and more is all no-charge and open to the public.

August Promotions At The Sahara – Wednesday Blackjack Tournaments – Put your skills to the test every Monday and Wednesday with Club Sahara’s $2,000 Blackjack Tournaments! Registration is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Buy-in is $25, which includes a free buffet coupon or $10 in free table play. Re-buys are $10. Cash in for Cocktails Paycheck Promotion – Cash your paycheck at the Sahara Main Cage and receive two free drinks! Valid paychecks only, management reserves all rights. Click to Read The Full Story …

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Eddie Vedder, Journey, The Police, Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My wife and I travel to LV 6 times per year. All of your “old Las Vegas” tips seem to refer to downtown. We stay on the Strip. Where are the loose slots, where is the fun of old Las Vegas? Everything you refer to in the newsletter is downtown. Really, we want to know what is old Las Vegas on the Strip? We are disillusioned with the hype.

Cheers

M&B Kieth

á

Ted Responds:

Here’s some food for thought:

Las Vegas didn’t used to have a Bellagio, Venetian or Wynn Las Vegas. Most of the Las Vegas Strip hotels were more comparable to the hotels which are downtown now.

You can’t expect to stay at what are now some of the finest resorts in the world for $49 a night. However, Las Vegas didn’t used to have the finest resorts in the world. People came and enjoyed clean, comfortable rooms at rates well below what that comparable room would cost in another city.

Staying downtown does not preclude spending the majority of your time on The Strip. To put things in perspective: Downtown is 3.5 miles from Wynn Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay is 2.5 miles from Wynn Las Vegas. Fremont Street isn’t a foreign outpost or something!

Downtown-like rates can be found on The Strip at Tropicana, Sahara, Imperial Palace and Riviera. And… rates at the very top resorts are currently well below what rooms of that quality would go for in another city.

People seem to want to stay at the very top notch resorts, but at “old Vegas” prices. That would never happen in any city under any circumstances. However, inexpensive rooms and good gambling are very much alive and well downtown. We are advising people watching expenditures to enjoy seeing the shows and attractions they want to on The Strip, but to stay downtown. It will still add up to a great Las Vegas vacation.

Hi Ted!

We had a chance while in Vegas, to visit the Palazzo and really did not think that it was as spectacular as we were led to believe. The casino is nothing more than a repeat of the Venetian. None of the stores were open on the third floor and it was difficult to find staff members who could give reliable information with regards to directions or where specific stores might be located. Disappointed to say the least.

On a happier note, we ate at the Bistro Cantina restaurant which is on the strip and adjacent to the Monte Carlo. The food was excellent and the staff were very cordial. Also went to the Hofbrau House and had a great time – a great place to really cut loose – German food was also quite good! Siegfriedáá and Roy were there that night to celebrate a birthday. We really enjoy your news letter – it helps to keep us up on current events in Vegas – thank you for that!!

Linda and Rich

á

Ted Responds:

The Palazzo gaming area is really understated, no question about it. Not the zing of Wynn, Bellagio or even Venetian.

Palazzo was under a lot of pressure to get the doors open (more or less) on time. I’d re-visit the property for a quick stroll on your next visit and see if it seems different. Having said that, I agree that it didn’t really add a new WOW factor to The Strip.

Have not been to Bistro Cantina, but Hofbrau House is always fun. Anyone headed over to check out the Hard Rock should poke their head in and check it out.

Thanks for reading and telling your friends to subscribe!

Hi, Always enjoy reading Inside Vegas. I just returned from another trip to Vegas. I stayed one night at Harrah’s which was great. I also stayed 3 nights at Marriott Grand Chateau. It was fantastic. These two hotels were so much better than the Imperial Palace from last month’s visit. Harrah’s need to upgrade Imperial Palace immediately! I also saw “Jersey Boys” and really enjoyed the music. They could leave out the “F” word and it wouldn’t be missed. I ate at many fantastic restaurants.

Sincerely,

Joan Cornell from Illinois

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

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

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:

  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

August 13, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 6, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Publishing a little late this week. With so much construction news happening (resorts on hold, resorts topping off, boozing construction workers) we wanted to sort it all out. For those just reading to find out what is hot to see on your next visit, we won’t disappoint you either!

Echelon Flops and M Resort Tops – tops out, that is. Boyd Gaming’s Echelon resort was abruptly put on hold last week because of market conditions. If Echelon doesn’t ring a bell, that is the complex they knocked down the Stardust to build. Echelon was to have 5 hotels, clubs, shopping and more. They intend to re-start construction in about a year.

The real losers in that one? All of those who enjoyed The Stardust. Even back when Echelon was announced, many wondered why they didn’t try to keep atáa piece of the Stardust or at least some use of the iconic name that is legendary in so many movies and Las Vegas lore.

I’m not sure how so many thought that Las Vegas could absorb a CityCenter, Echelon, and Plaza (complex to go where The Frontier was) even in good times. Unlike a beach destination where you sit on your hotel balcony and watch the waves, few use their Las Vegas hotel room for much more than sleeping. Even people who could afford a really nice hotel often stay in a mid-range property and save the money for top shows and celeb restaurant dining.

M Resort Casino Las Vegas

While other Las Vegas hotel casino projects get put on hold (or never break ground) the Marnell Company M Resort is topped off and on track to open. The M Resort, Spa and Casino will feature 390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 square feet of gaming, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, and more. Click to see more photos and read entire M Resort, Spa and Casino Las Vegas Tops Off Tower, Open Early 2009 story.

Impressionist (and newsletter member) Larry G. Jones is back. For his newly restructured show, Larry has added a number of new singing impressions and song parodies.áSome of newest voices include Tina Turner, Axl Rose and Randy Travis.á

YouÆll also get a taste of many of Las Vegas top shows like The Jersey Boys, Phantom of the Opera, The Rat Pack, Cher, Elton John, Tom Jones, Barry Manilow, The Temptations, Wayne Newton, and Neil Diamond to name a few. He’s playing the Royal Hotel showroom (corner of The Strip and Convention Center Drive). Larry G. Jones Tickets

CityCenter Construction Employees Living It Up During Work? – Big news came out of an investigation by the Las Vegas Review-Journal regarding MGM CityCenter construction workers drinking and then going to the job site. The construction site has been the focus of worker safety concerns because of the number of deaths to date on the site.á

The paper observed construction workers boozing it up at various bars adjacent to the job site. So far, three of the workers have been fired. Full Story: CityCenter Construction Site Safety issues raised

Win A Scooter At Mint Mondays – During the month of August, Tropicana Las Vegas is partnering with Mike’s Hard Lemonade during all upcoming Mint Monday events (public welcome at no charge) and giving away one cooler scooter each Monday of the month directly following the live band performance.

Guests will receive one raffle ticket for the cooler scooter drawing by purchasing any Mike’s Hard Lemonade product at the pool. Happy hour pricing still applies from 5-7 p.m. as well. The Tropicana’s Happy Hour drink prices are available anywhere on the property, both at indoor bars and at the free pool parties on Mondays.

A big tip of the hat toward a legendary hotel that is bringing people in the doors the old fashioned way… great deals! PS Our own Mark Jacobs will be shooting a Mint Monday photo set this coming Monday. If you see him in our logo shirt, make sure to say hello. The Carnival Court photo set shot last week will be up soon.á

Great Locals Dining Secret (Close Enough For Tourists To Enjoy) – The Blue Martini restaurants of South Florida opened a Las Vegas location earlier this year in Town Square, just 1.5 miles south of Mandalay Bay. Their entire food menu (think a tapas menu with big portions) and all martinis are 1/2 off, 7 days a week from 4-8 PM.á

My pick? Hit Blue Martini for appetizers and a cocktail, then head over to Brio for some amazing Italian food, or Louis’s Las Vegas for southern low-country fare that defines “comfort food.”

Something Fun For 8/8/08: Shemaryah Monique Rothmeyer was born at 8:08 a.m., weighing 8 pounds, 2 ounces on 8.8.08 at Sunrise Children’s Hospital here in Las Vegas. That is pretty cool. PS August 8 is also our own Mark Jacobs birthday, so if you see him at Mint Monday this coming week, wish him a happy belated birthday.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

US Open Tennis, College Football, WWE Wrestling, ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, Eddie Vedder, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Journey, The Police, Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Bette Midler’s Is “The People’s Diva” In The Showgirl Must Go On

By Mara M. Mannella

“I am, after all, the People’s Diva!” Yes she is, and it shows in The Showgirl Must Go On taking place at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace. Bette Midler takes the audience on a wild ride through her career, all beginning with her rocky arrival via tornado to the showroom. For 90 minutes the Divine Miss M captivates the audience with a stage presence that is the perfect mix of Vegas glitz and genuine emotion.

Set in a plush and spacious venue, there is plenty to admire before the show even begins. The stage is set for Bette with a large video image of a billboard featuring the star erected in what looks like a rural Las Vegas desert scene.

Click to Read Bette Midler The Showgirl Must Go On Las Vegas Review…

George Wallace Welcomes Jennifer Holliday As Co-Headliner August 19-30 – Singing sensation to perform at the “Best 10 p.m. Show” in Las Vegas. Broadway headliner and two-time Grammy winner Jennifer Holliday will be co-headlining the “Best 10 p.m. Show” in Las Vegas with George Wallace at the Flamingo Hotel, August 19-30, 2008. (Tickets) Jennifer Holliday has been making music for more than twenty years but is remembered most notably for her 1982 hit single “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” Holliday revived the song later when she delivered her show-stealing performance in the musical “Dreamgirls.” Her performance in the Broadway musical “Your Arm’s Too Short to Box with God” was what led to her famous performance in “Dreamgirls,” an adaptation of The Supremes’ saga. Click to Read The Full Story …

From Ow! To Ahhh – Spa Solutions For Stress And Strain – Suffering from BlackBerry thumb? Computer eye? Desk chair strain? Too much work and not enough relaxation can cause a myriad of unwanted kinks, aches and pains, but soothing relief can be just one spa treatment away. MGM Grand Spa’s Hand and Foot Samadhi is ideal for soothing tired soles and strained wrists. The 100-minute Avurvedic treatment, which includes a full Manicure and pedicure, uses aromatherapy oils and herbal crystals to regain balance and harmony.á

The Royal Treatment Spa at Excalibur features a Reflexology Massage perfect for relieving tension. Offered in 25- and 50-minute sessions. the relaxing service uses reflex points in the hands and feet to achieve a respite from stress. At The Spa at The Mirage, the over-worked can indulge in a soothing Relaxation Moor Mud Wrap. The 50-minute experience, legendary for its therapeutic powers, uses several thousand-year-old moor mud to revitalize tired muscles and dull skin.

Tiger Cubs at Play at The Mirage – Siegfried & Ray’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is the new home of five golden, white-striped and snow-white tiger cubs. Guests are invited to watch these adorable felines, expected to weigh up to 575 pounds each when fully grown, as they pounce and play in a specially built nursery. The cubs can be seen daily from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat also features the Royal White Tigers of Nevada, the White Lions of Timbavati and a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

Gambling Talk: Introduction To Seven Card Stud – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the fourth of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Introduction To Texas Hold’em (broadband)

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

Bally’s from $69, Bill’s from $48, Caesars from $140, Flamingo from $59, Harrah’s from $58, Imperial from $35, Paris from $90, Rio Suites from $58, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Several friends and I just returned from Vegas, and we noticed a trend at many strip casinos. Minimums going up and up for craps. Even Sunday at noon when historically one could find low minimums, casinos had $10 minimum craps tables with no one playing. We went to several casinos that had more than one completely empty $10 table while a smaller casino right next door had $5 tables that you couldn’t get near because so many people were trying to play.á

Are we missing something, or at some point doesn’t it make financial sense to have overflowing $5 tables rather than empty $10 tables? I know that these casinos don’t do anything unless it makes them money, maybe you can have a gaming professional explain how this works for me.á

Thanks,á

Brian from Ocala, Florida

á

Ted Responds:

A very valid question. The $5 tables at Casino Royale will be jammed but higher limit tables at the places surrounding it will have soft action.

The problem is that “gambling professionals” no longer call the shots. I remember the days when a Floor Supervisor would glance around at the tables as a way do decide whether to raise or lower limits.

Part of it may that a couple of $10 and up craps players will end up being more profitable than a table full of $5 bettors. The people betting the bigger chips are also likely to have numerous bets in action. The budget bettor isn’t as likely to spread action all over the table.

However, craps (for most people) is more fun on a full table. You think they would take that into account.

It also may be a sign of how many in the gaming industry have forgotten the way things were in Las Vegas for decades: Keep the games and rooms affordable and people will spend all they have. They got spoiled the last few years when they could get away with higher room rates and tighter games.á

The current economy is a wake-up call and I think you will see some operators (especially private owners like the guy who owns The Sahara) really move back into the “old school” way of doing things and will benefit greatly. If they do, corporate Vegas may follow suit.

Myself and my husband are coming to vegas for the first time on the 7th July can you give us any advice? á

á

Ted Responds:

You could spend a month in Las Vegas without ever doing the same thing twice, and everyone has different tastes and preferences on what they enjoy. Best advice is to just keep reading this newsletter every week.á

You may also want to check out our back issues for the previous few months. Go to https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com
and scroll down the right-hand sidebar to access archive links (separated by month). Important Note: Lots of great info in our back issues, but they are archives. Some of the material will be out-of-date the farther back you go.

Ted, can you tell me when and where Trans Siberian Orchestra will be playing for the Holiday season? My wife and I will be coming to Las Vegas in November and as of now TSO does not have its schedule out. Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,

Jim

á

Ted Responds:

One of the most common questions we get are inquiries about who is going to be playing many months away. If we have not published the info, we have no clue. We can’t list shows, concerts, or events until we’ve been informed about them.

Many headliner runs are set up late in the year and we’ll them get a pretty extended schedule for them. Concerts are rarely booked and publicized more than a week in advance.

My suggestion to everyone? Check our concert calendar weekly for the dates you are visiting. If looking for when a specific artist will play, watch the newsletter every week and scan through the list of artists.

Hi, Always enjoy reading the newsletter. I just returned from another trip to Vegas. I stayed one night at Harrah’s which was great. I also stayed 3 nights at Marriott Grand Chateau. It was fantastic. These two hotels were so much better than the Imperial Palace from last month’s visit. Harrah’s need to upgrade Imperial Palace immediately!á

I also saw “Jersey Boys” and really enjoyed the music. They could leave out the “F” word and it wouldn’t be missed. I ate at many fantastic restaurants.

Sincerely,

Joan Cornell from Illinois

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:

  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

August 6, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Thanks,

Tracey from Cumbria, England

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 30, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Can’t see all the great photos and graphics? Click to Read This Issue Online! Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! So much to say this week, so let’s dive on in…

Last Chance To See Some Classic Vegas Video – Years before the popularity of YouTube, we were one of the first travel sites in the world doing streaming video at AllVegasTV.com. And… admittedly we were a little ahead of our time. We shelved it.

Times have changed, and most of you have broadband. We’re going to be producing new Vegas related video and getting all new promo video as to enable you to make the best Vegas decisions possible! If you want to take a last look at some of the video and promos from years gone by (mixed in with more modern Vegas content), check our our All Vegas TV 24/7 Stream (broadband only). This will be the last time some of that “classic”ácontent is available.

Fall Weather In Las Vegas Is Perfect – While many other areas start to feel a chill (and rain and cold and some first snows which will be here before you know it), we’ll still be “chilling” ourselves… by the pool! Yes, airfare and gas prices are no fun, but Vegas room prices are way down to make up for it.

Extend your summer well into the fall! Check out our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and see some of the deals they are cranking out, even for our “high” season of incredible fall weather.

Follow The Yellow Brick Road In August – Local favorite band Yellow Brick Road are playing Harrah’s Carnival Court every Monday night in August (except Aug. 18). If you want to see everything from The Beatles and Led Zep to Queen, U2, Pink Floyd and similar done to perfection with a band that rips up the stage giving a true concert experience, don’t miss it. Don’t take my word for it. You can walk by Carnival Court and see for yourself!

Oh… we’re sending our News Editor Mark Jacobs there this coming Monday (August 4, 2008) to photograph the event. If you see him with our logo shirt on, make sure to say hello!

Newsletter Member Numbers Have Been CLIMBING… Thanks For Telling Your Friends! You’d think with all the news about the soft USá economy and Vegas being on hard times that we’d be losing newsletter readers. Not The Case! This is in large part to so many of you telling your friends, posting about us in forums, mentioning us on your blogs and really help getting the world out and we really appreciate it.

As you can imagine, we put a ton of work into each issue. As I often note, we are a small group of people who just love Las Vegas and we need you to make sure others hear about this newsletter. Thank you so much for continuing spread the word. People can to go any page of AccessVegas.com and use the newsletter sign-up form at the top of each page.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, Eddie Vedder, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Journey, The Police, Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Mother From New Mexico Wins $727,099 At The Sahara Hotel & Casino – Shawnta R. Taylor, a 28-year-old mother from Gallup, New Mexico, hit a $727,099 penny Temple of Treasure jackpot at the Sahara Hotel and Casino early Sunday, July 13. The lucky winner was in town vacationing with family members. Sunday was their last day visiting Las Vegas, so Taylor decided to play the lucky machine one more time while the rest of her family slept in. Click to Read The Full Story …

Cannery Casino & Hotel’s End of Summer Bash Closes Out the Season with a Rockin’ Good Time – The Cannery Casino & Hotel says goodbye to summer with the End of Summer Bash featuring musical acts and loads of food, drinks and fun. The festival will take place Saturday, August 30 beginning at 4 p.m. at The Club. The musical line-up includes Gary U.S. Bonds, Booker T of Booker T and the MG’s, Chris Montez and Bryan Highland. Tickets to the End of Summer Bash are free and are available to the public at the Cannery Casino & Hotel’s ticket sales counter located at the front desk. Click to Read The Full Story …

Kid Rock To Perform At The Pearl Concert Theater On September 20 – The infamous rocker with the bad ass attitude returns to The Pearl Concert Theatre at the Palms Casino Resort on Saturday, September 20, 2008, at 8:00 p.m. (Tickets) Click to Read The Full Story …

The new rock lounge Wasted Space at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino hosted a special grand opening event for the club’s weekly local industry night “Wasted Wednesdays.” The party was also a birthday celebration for Wasted Space co-owner Carey Hart. People lined up outside the club to get a glimpse of the action sports super star who was joined by NY Yankees baseball star Jason Giambi (also a co-owner) with his wife Kristian, good friend John Dolmayan (drummer for System of a Down), managing partner Cory McCormack and his wife Shannon DuPont.

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day Weekend With Enrique Iglesias & Aventura At Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, September 13 – Enrique Iglesias and popular band Aventura are set to bring their much anticipated tour to the United States. The King of Pop and the Kings of Bachata are the perfect combination for a unique show that will captivate the public. The tour will make a stop at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, Sept. 13 to celebrate Mexican Independence Day Weekend and the concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. (Tickets) Click to Read The Full Story …

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

Bally’s from $69, Barbary Bill’s from $45, Caesars from $120, Flamingo from $63, Harrah’s from $58, Imperial from $35, Paris from $90, Rio Suites from $58, , More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

A few regular segments like this one and our show reviews will return next issue. In fact, coming reviews are of both Barry Manilow and Bette Midler’s very popular shows.

Wish I could tell you I was goofing off, but the reality is that we’re just about to launch a much bigger, much improved AccessVegas.com. Over 1000 new pages of content, huge improvements to our online photo gallery, and too much more to mention. Around Labor Day (US), we’ll bring it all live.

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

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

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 I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

July 30, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 16, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Welcome to the hot, hazy, humid days of a Las Vegas summer. Yes, I said humid as bands of clouds (and intermittent rain) has graced us the past week. Fortunately, this has kept temperatures a few degrees lower than usual. Think more Miami than Vegas. Temps are only going to be in the high 90’s most of the coming week. That’s almost downright chilly for Las Vegas this time of year!

Morris Day and The Time are getting great reviews and really generating a buzz with their run at The Flamingo. Check out the recent review There’s Still Time. Their next run is July 29 – August 2, 2008: Morris Day and The Time Tickets

If Not Downtown Nor On The Strip… – We have two new photo sets this week of a couple hotel casinos often favored by visitors: Palms Las Vegas and The Orleans.

Both resorts are only a couple of miles apart, but popular for two very different reasons. The Palms is upscale/celeb/MTV meets Las Vegas with top amenities and a Los Angeles crowd in touch with everything pop culture.

The Orleans is “local, local, local” with with a popular race and sports book and a bowling center upstairs (which must be seen to be believed).

What they have in common is that The Palms has an interesting design where the west half of the casino (with a food court, lots of slots, and easy parking) brings the the area locals in with regularity, making both resorts both “local’s favorites” with guest shuttles to the Las Vegas Strip.

The Palms Hotel Casino Playboy Club Las Vegas Nevada
View Palms Las Vegas Photos

Orleans Hotel Casino Las Vegas Nevada
View Orleans Las Vegas Photos

Steve Wynn is preparing to hire 5300 people to staff his new Encore tower. Before you pack up the car and move to town with thoughts of a $100,000-a-year gig parking cars, think again: He’s going to steal the cream-of-the-crop from other resorts. In addition, he’ll grab the best of those laid off the past few months in the industry. And… he’s probably very unlikely to hire anyone who isn’t an established local (common with almost any business here right now). With higher than (U.S.) average unemployment in Nevada, he’ll have plenty of qualified, experienced talent to choose from.

Will Rogers Fillies… Has Its Charm – We don’t often cover local theatre here as many of you are from out of town (and outside the United States) and are simply coming for a vacation. However, a tip of the hat to our own writer DW Grant (see his Rat Pack Is Back review later in this issue) who is involved with the local Will Rogers Follies production.

Local theatre critic Anthony Del Valle says this about the show:

I got lulled into “The Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Revue” halfway through. There’s something about the soft, steady flow of elegance that keeps you smiling.

The 1991 musical pays tribute to the folksy commentator in the style of a Florenz Ziegfeld extravaganza. That is, long, leggy numbers are often interrupted by jokes of wisdom by our star (Michael Brown), infiltrated by scenes of family and hearth.á

Click to Read Entire Local Will Rogers Follies Review including venue and ticket information.

Correction: The Tropicana’s free pool parties are on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays from noon until 11 PM and are open to the public with DJ’s, live entertainment, food, and drink specials.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $58, Sahara from $35, Strat. from $48, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $37, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Featured Review:
Cirque du Soleil’s KA – Set Fire To Your Boundaries And Ignite Your Imagination!

by Nicole “Niko” Acevedo

Experience another world in another time, perhaps another universe. The melodies that echo are unfamiliar yet enchanting and the passionate gestures, mastered martial artistry, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics will guide you through this journey of the Imperial Twins and their struggle through the tragedies of war, loss and separation, and the dawn of new love and reunion.

Accompanied by a powerful and enigmatic original musical score, this spectacular theatrical production will draw you into the depths of a transcendent voyage. Ka is like a compelling visionary experience and vibrant dreamscape where there are no limits to the incredible abilities of the human body, joined with the mind’s imagination.

Click to Read Entire Cirque du Soleil’s KA Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Indeed, The Rat Pack Is Back In Las Vegas

by DW Grant

Returning to 1962 to catch the greatest act in Las Vegas history is now as easy as buying a ticket. “The Rat Pack is Back,” The Sands has been resurrected, Las Vegas has only one sensational act, and the production is as hot Vegas has ever been or may ever be.

Forget about blue men, tumbling clown shows, red pianos, and all Elvi. Sizzling hot Vegas nights have returned and the chaotic Corporate Canyon has been turned back to a dazzling Neon City again. The show room is gaudy red curtains, dinner booths and tuxedoed waiters dashing from table to table. The New York strip steak is worthy of praise and the live 13 piece orchestra warming up behind the half circle of gold waterfall curtains is ready to pump out gobs of showroom glitz.

Click to Read Entire The Rat Pack Is Back Las Vegas Review…

Comedian Chris Rock To Return To The Colosseum At Caesars Palace – “No Apologies” Tour Slated for Two Night Engagement August 29-30. (Tickets) Comedic heavy-weight Chris Rock is bringing his critically acclaimed “No Apologies” tour to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Friday, August 29 and Saturday, August 30. The extended Labor Day weekend performances are presented jointly by Caesars Palace and AEG Live. Click to Read The Full Story …

Ron White Performs His Down Home Comedy At The Mirage December 5 – 6 – Ron White, best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour,” will perform his hilarious stand-up comedy inside the Danny Gans Theatre at The Mirage December 5 and 6 at 10 p.m. (Tickets) Guests must be at least 16 years old to attend. White, a Texas native, is known for his performances with fellow Southern comedians Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall and Larry the Cable Guy during the highly acclaimed “Blue Collar Comedy Tour.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Hot Buys: From Sizzling Fashions to Indulgent Beauty Treats – Look cool in the heat of summer with hot retail buys from Mandalay Place at Mandalay Bay. Check out what will be open on your next trip to The Strip:

  • Metropark – Mixing contemporary fashion with a high-energy atmosphere, this edgy retailer will offer modern, urban apparel and accessories typically found only in specialty boutiques. Targeting trendsetting shoppers in search of more sophisticated fashion, Metropark will feature such brands as Obey, Affliction, Sinful, True Religion, Ed Hardy, Howe, Kid Robot and Betsey Johnson.
  • LUSH – Known for its ethical and innovative approach to beauty, LUSH will offer fresh handmade cosmetic, bath and body products. Traditional and non-traditional merchandise will range from fragrant soaps to fizzing bath bombs. A self-proclaimed “cosmetic grocer,” LUSH offers the atmosphere of a beauty deli with bars of soap piled high on wooden tables and ice-filled fridges full of chilled face masks.á

    LUSH products are created without animal testing and are 100% vegetarian, 74% vegan and 65% preservative-free. Mandalay Place will be the first and only location to offer LUSHÆs distinct brand of beauty to Las Vegas.

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

Jimmy Buffett, Neil Diamond, Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival, Jonas Brothers, John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Rush, Kenny Chesney, The Police, Rascal Flatts, Crue Fest with Motley Crue, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, ColdPlay, Bruce Springsteen, Janet Jackson, Madonna, American Idols Live, Carrie Underwood, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Elton John, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted,

1’st just want to mention that I checked out the i4vegas.com room prices recommended on your site, and found the room prices unbeatable.á

We always fly SW airlines, flying in from El Paso or Albuquerque…The round trip cost per person has increased about $100 in the last 5 years….but still it is a direct flight of about an hour, and Time is worth a lot….

We always stay “Downtown” on Fremont Street…because we find it more economical, and have found the food to be good, and lots of places to eat…and the availability of Casino’s in close proximity to be a real benefit! Not big high rollers, staying 3 to 4 days with a gambling account of $1000. each…it is vacation money…win or lose we tend to have a great time.á

Miss the Lady Luck, and do hope it reopens eventually…very impressed with the new look of The El Cortez, and enjoyed our gambling there, also had a nice breakfast there….this is the 1’st time that we did not go to the Strip….but stayed a day longer, did not charge any meals this trip on credit cards, and stayed within the total budget.á

Best paying slots were found at Binion’s, Fremont and Las Vegas Club, also did OK at the Golden Gate….love to be on Fremont Street…feel safe alone, and only 10 minutes from the room in any direction it seems…..

S. Brickey

á

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great letter! Seems like so many are acting like they can’t come here and have fun unless they are staying at The Wynn or Bellagio (both of which are also very inexpensive right now compared to their usual rates).á

But even with higher airfare, Las Vegas is still the most value-conscious vacation destination no matter what your budget. Certainly, I do agree that our friend at Las Vegas Hotel Deals very often come up with the best rates you will find. Can’t hurt to look and see what they have.

Thanks for the great note, and I love hearing about how everyone continues to enjoy visiting our insane city!

Hi Ted,

My youngest daughter and I are coming to Las Vegas the end of October, for a mom/daughter trip (she is 35).

We are staying at the Mirage and I would like to explore Fremont Street, but have been told it is not safe, is this true? We would take a taxi to and from the area.

Looking forward to coming to Las Vegas for my second trip and daughter’s first trip.

Marsha from Auburn Hills, Michigan

á

Ted Responds:

Good question! Fremont Street and that tourism/hotels area is as safe as The Strip. Maybe safer as the area is more concentrated. It is like an outdoor shopping mall (in terms of safety and everything being in close proximity). Maybe a little more energized and “wild” (in a good way) but certainly not unsafe.

You don’t want to wander away from the tourism area downtown, but the same can be said for The Strip. There are areas just a few blocks east of The Strip that I wouldn’t walk through at night.

Taking a cab down and back should present no issues, and a return cab home can be found at many downtown hotels (ask the cabbie to drop you off at the same place that you’ll find cabs waiting to take you back).

Best advise is to check it out in the evening when the overhead light show starts up just after dusk, playing on the hour until midnight.

Dear Ted,

A recent newsletter had a story in your “More Las Vegas News” section about the lease Steve Wynn signed for leasing his personal villa. It stated he will be paying $540,000 per year for a 2 year lease.

I admire him for all he has accomplished. This kind of wealth is very impressive to me. (his lease for one year is 2 times the value of my home). What I am curious about is what does he get for the price? The article didn’t say anything about what the villa included for the price such as size, number of rooms etc.

Is there somewhere one could read about this or if possible could you give us the details. Thanks for the great newsletter and will be looking forward to the new format.

Thank You,

Roy Winkelman

á

Ted Responds:

I’m guessing that somewhere in Wynn Las Vegas corporate documents (probably available to the public as it is a public company) are some of the details. If not, what is generally assumed on an agreement like this is the normal amenities which come with a high-end suite: Maids, butlers, limo (or similar) transportation and other use of the facilities.

Plus… as his position of CEO, he already would get free food, transportation (often including access to a jet at his disposal) and similar. Why he is leasing the suite (instead of having it included as compensation) is possibly more of a book keeping issue or something to appease stockholders.

If anyone has more insight, please do use our contact information listed below.

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

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

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 I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

July 16, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 9, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! This week, we are going to revisit a theme I briefly touched upon a few weeks ago: If you want the REAL Las Vegas (the one everyone enjoyed a number of years ago with inexpensive room rates, reasonably priced food, and a fair shot at winning some money)… try Fremont Street Downtown!

Important Note: Many long time visitors are very concerned about the “old” vs. “new” Las Vegas. What has changed and why. However, many have a visit planned and simply want to continue to enjoy our newsletter with the latest top Las Vegas information we always offer.

In this issue, we cover plenty of the “old” vs “new” that many readers are demanding. However… for the sake of keeping the newsletter a reasonable length, we will be posting some of that topic online for further review.

Loose Slots, Single Deck Blackjack, 100 Times Odds On Craps, 99% Payback Slot Bank, Full Pay Video Poker – If you’ve been visiting Las Vegas more than five years, the odds are that you saw similar advertisements and signs in various casinos on The Strip and Downtown. Then, Las Vegas got hot. Happening. The hip place to go.á

The Travel Channel seemed like “The Las Vegas Channel” because they showed so many Vegas-related programs. Any news out of Las Vegas made newspapers world-wide. This brought record numbers of new visitors to town.

Click to continue to read Loose Slots And How To Still Enjoy The “New” Las Vegas

Las Vegas Downtown Day and Night Views:
Click Pictures Below For More!

Fremont Street Downtown Hotels

Fremont Street Experience Downtown Las Vegas

Looking for information on some Downtown Las Vegas hotels at great rates? Here you go!

Binion’s
California
El Cortez
Fitzgerald’s
Four Queens		 Golden Gate
Golden Nugget
Las Vegas Club
Main Street Station
Plaza Hotel

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See Where Your Favorite Event Is Playing!

Jimmy Buffett, Neil Diamond, Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival, Jonas Brothers, John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Rush, Kenny Chesney, The Police, Rascal Flatts, Crue Fest with Motley Crue, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, ColdPlay, Bruce Springsteen, Janet Jackson, Madonna, American Idols Live, Carrie Underwood, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Elton John, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition – Moving, Memorable & Haunting

by Devon Brooke Clasen

A far cry from the flashy, showy style of so many shows and attractions in Las Vegas,áTitanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Tropicana Resort presents a moving, memorable yet haunting historic survey of the 20th century’s most infamous maritime disaster, showcased in a generously sized 25,000-square-foot retrospective.

Entering the exhibit, each visitor is outfitted with a personal audio device, supplying narrated commentary and facts as well as dramatic readings of historic quotes from figures connected to the ship’s construction.

Additionally, guests are provided with a charming keepsake boarding pass for the RMS Titanic, complete with the name and personal information of an actual passenger, whose fate is to be revealed upon the exhibition’s completion; a clever yet sobering touch to truly personalize the experience.

Click to Read Entire Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
X Burlesque – Sharp, Sexy, and Entertaining

by Lincoln Hudson

What Happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, as the saying goes. At The Flamingo, nothing could be hotter than the extraordinary 75 minute high octane dance show called ‘X-Burlesque.

Sharp, sexy and very entertaining to the eye, the X-Girls perform in the Second City Theatre displaying a beautiful mixture of both modern dance and the avant-garde. Sexy or adult musical revues seem to be catching on in Vegas these days and this one seems quite happy to be competing alongside Bite and Cirque Du Soleil’s Zumanity.

Click to Read X Burlesque Las Vegas Review…

American Superstars Show Still On Top At The Stratosphere Casino Hotel And Tower – The American Superstars show, which opened in Las Vegas with the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower in April 1996, has signed a contract extension through November 2009. (Tickets) This allows the show to continue to wow audiences with its line-up of celebrity tributes, announced American Casino & Entertainment Properties officials. “The American Superstars show has thrived in the competitive Vegas entertainment market because it is quality entertainment which leaves audiences feeling entertained at a fair price,” said Mark Callas, who produces American Superstars with his Springtime Productions partner, Donny Moore. Click to Read The Full Story …


The American Superstars are Still on Top after 12 Years at the Stratosphere Hotel. Front row – Dancer Nadia Albulet, Chad Givens as Tim McGraw, Damian Brantley as Michael Jackson, Lorena Peril as Christina Aguilera, John Anthony as Rod Stewart, Darren Lee as Elvis, and dancer Teresa McAuliffe. Back row – dancer Erica Chandler, dancer Audrey Rusher, and dancer Renee Herter.

Classic Strip Favorites Offer Modern New Looks – This summer, visitors to Las Vegas are invited to check out the new room designs at some of their favorite hotels. HereÆs where to check in during your next stay:

  • Scheduled for completion in August, striking new room designs at The Mirage feature eye-catching color schemes, cool metals and warm woods. Standard amenities include pillow-top mattresses, down comforters, feather pillows, cordless phones and ergonomic office chairs. A dedicated media hub allows computers, video iPod/MP3 players and game systems to be displayed on each roomÆs 42-inch LCD television.
  • Scheduled for completion in late 2009, a contemporary room redesign at Excalibur offers a modern take on the resortÆs classic castle theme. Currently offering 2,000 newly remodeled accommodations, ExcaliburÆs Widescreen Room features a 42-inch plasma television and modern comforts such as pillow-top mattresses and iPod-compatible clock radios. A soothing color palette of soft blues, creamy yellows and deep browns creates an inviting ambiance.
  • Recently completed, a $60 million suite remodel at Bellagio reflects the feel of an upscale residence while providing the amenities of a luxury resort. The dramatic new look of seven suite types combines sumptuous textiles with dark woods and a rich color palette. Indulgent in-suite conveniences include high-speed Internet access, iHome clock radios, DVD players, multi-line phones, fax machines, laptop safes, automatic draperies and flat-screen, high-definition televisions.

Lance Burton Master Magician Show – New Wonders Await! – Lance Burton headlines his own “Master Magician” show at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino after 12 years there performing some of the world’s greatest tricks. (Tickets) A couple of years ago Lance added some new mind-boggling illusions to wow audiences from their senses from 0 to 60 in a flash. Not only our his hands faster than a camera but his new creative illusion are so baffling that a network from Germany filmed and aired a TV special called: “Lance Burton: The Greatest Magician on Planet Earth.” He recently appeared on “THE VIEW” and David Letterman. Click to Read The Full Story …


UFC fighter Chuck Liddell was at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino July 4, 2008 and surprised fans with a special appearance at Hell’s Belles where he dealt blackjack for about an hour.

Gambling Talk: Introduction To Texas Hold’em – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the first of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Introduction To Texas Hold’em (broadband)

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $58, Sahara from $35, Strat. from $48, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $37, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My wife and I just returned home from our Vegas trip (6 nights/5 days). We stayed for the first time at the Paris (2 nights) and then 4 nights downtown at Main Street Station. The biggest change we noticed was the lack of people.á

I know it was the 4th of July week, but the ‘people’ traffic was much less than before. We asked a floor person at MSS about traffic and she too said the size of the crowds were much smaller than they use to be. My guess as well as hers was, ‘all about the cost of gas’.

I think the casinos are helping their bottom line by making slots much tighter, just as the airlines are charging for suitcases and giving less service. It may be time to re-think our Vegas trips. Enjoy your weekly publication.

The Kinneys,

Pleasant Garden, NC

á

Ted Responds:

I agree with you: The gaming properties tried to squeeze tourists too hard during the good times, and it is biting them back during the bad times.

For decades, people would go through hell and high water to get to Las Vegas regardless of the economy. They knew the reward would be reasonably priced rooms and food, plus a fair chance at winning some money.

It is a rude awakening for many in hotel/casino management, many whom have never been here long enough to see a downturn and thought the “gravy train” of the past few years was the norm.

My prediction? Everyone will finally see a return to some of the “old Vegas” way of doing things that attracted so many for so long.

Click to read my entire response: Lack Of Las Vegas Visitors?

Since reviewing things on your site as well as others, itÆs apparent that Las Vegas is experiencing a slow down in economy. Gambled money and room occupancy is down, even our paper has reported it in the Sunday travel section. My suggestion is to have the city and casinoÆs work in conjunction with the airlines to help lower the cost of flights in and out of Las Vegas.

My wife and I travel on the average 4 times a year to L.V., being that we gamble a lot, Hooters has ôcompedö us for each stay. The travel is whatÆs costing us and preventing us from going more then 2 times this year so far. An example of price fares form Cleveland to L.V. via Continental airlines û In April it was $ 198. round trip ; in May it was $ 218. round trip; now the cheapest we can travel is $ 438. round trip.

I know airlines are taking a beating on fuel cost, but if the city and casinoÆs can work with the airlines to help subsidize travel I would bet that more people would come out and reverse the decline in gambling revenue and room occupancy. ItÆs just a suggestion, for a 4day û 3 night trip we generally add $ 1,500. to the L.V. economy via gambling; food; drinks; and misc spending. Thank you for your time to review my request,

John M. Kacvinsky

á

Ted Responds:

Interesting thoughts. Actually, the hotels are starting to “subsidize” the cost of the flights by slashing their room rates. You end up paying more for your flight, but less for rooms.

I realize that doesn’t help those like you who gamble enough to get your stay comped. For those of you who do play enough to get free rooms, I’d strongly suggest writing the hotel you give your action to and simply tell them “Hey… we come and gamble a lot of money, but airfare is killing us and a free room just doesn’t make it worth coming out. Is there any way players at are level can get something like a rebate on our airfare, extra free play, or meals?”

Per the city or casinos subsidizing flights:

Click to read my entire response: Getting Cheaper Flights Into Las Vegas?

Reader Gary Johanknecht of Wisconsin alerted me to a letter he wrote to the editor of our local Review-Journal paper. You can read it at No next time (third letter down on that page). Believe me… the powers that be are starting to listen to you. They have no choice!

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

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

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:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

July 9, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 2, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! It is July and that brings the heat. July and August are the two hottest months here with highs averaging 105. This coming mid-week? Keep hydrated… 112 is forecast.

Congratulations to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular on two successful years here in Las Vegas! If you have seen Phantom of the Opera elsewhere, you haven’t seen the full experience which in Las Vegas includes the exclusive $40 million state-of-the-art custom theatre (which is almost worth the price of admission by itself). Click for Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Tickets

What Is Up With The Lady Luck? – This is one of the most consistent questions we’ve received over the past couple of years. Here’s the latest:

The City of Las Vegas is trying to sweeten the pot for the Lady Luck owners to make it worth their while to get underway on the upgrades and renovation needed to re-open. The city is considering selling the city-owned land north of the hotel to the Lady Luck owners at a significant discount. However, the present economic climate might still make any construction/renovation financing tough.

Spectacular New Las Vegas Views:
Click Picture Below For More!

Las Vegas Strip atop Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower

We have this spectacular new photo set taken from the top of the Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower. It includes a number of amazing Las Vegas Strip shots ranging from the airport and planes taking off to MGM CityCenter to Bellagio Fountains and much, much more! Click to view Top Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower 2008 Photo Set

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

Janet Jackson, ColdPlay, Madonna, American Idols Live, Dave Matthews Band, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Jonas Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Kenny Chesney, Elton John, Rascal Flatts, Rush, Carrie Underwood, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Menopause The Musical – Laughing With Life’s Changes

by Sarah Steinberg

Since March 2001, the hilarious show “Menopause The Musical” has entertained and inspired women from coast-to-coast and internationally. The work of writer Jeanie Linders, “Menopause The Musical” is a 90-minute production that’s sure to tickle the funny bone. Whether you’ve been through menopause or not, this makes for an evening you’ll never forget.

The show is a celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or who have survived the dreaded change. For our four not-so-young gals, it’s the dreadful change. We follow the trials and tribulations, mostly the trials, of four women: the business executive, the housewife from Iowa, the washed-up soap star and the middle-aged hippie.

Click to Read Entire Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere Las Vegas Review…

  • Menopause The Musical Las Vegas Tickets: Call the Hilton Box Office at 800-222-5361

Featured Review:
Stripper 101 – Saucy, Sexy Sin City Fun

By Devon Brooke Clasen

A class not likely to be found at any university, Stripper 101 at Planet Hollywood offers lascivious ladies not only some sexy striptease skills, but also an afternoon of exercise, laughter and lessons in a truly enviable Sin City art form.

Arriving at the V theatre, attendees are directed to a small bar area for a short wait, where they may survey a variety of center stage performances staged in the Miracle Mile shops, including magic, acrobatics and comedy. Each participant is presented with a waiver release form, which they’re told they must sign before participating in this physical and somewhat rigorous class. A cocktail is included with the purchase of a ticket, no doubt aiding the ladies with the release of inhibitions required to attend such a tantalizing tutorial.

Click to Read Stripper 101 Las Vegas Review…

3 Doors Down, Staind And Hinder Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, August 29 – Three American rock bands, 3 Doors Down, Staind and Hinder are teaming up to take the stage at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Aug. 29. (Tickets) The concert is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. with special guest Sick Puppies. Formed in Escatawpa, Miss., the resilient five-some known as 3 Doors Down has blazed a trail as the quintessential rock band. They have attained massive mainstream success without losing that small-town identity that has branded them rock’s truest underdogs. Click to Read The Full Story …

T&T Explodes At Luxor With Hot Mexican Fare And Edgy Design – T&T (Tacos & Tequila), a highly stylized restaurant with a fun, high-energy vibe and flavorful menu, will open in late August at Luxor Hotel and Casino. Utilizing their years of hospitality experience, creators and owners Michael Frey and Craig Gilbert announced T&T will be the first project under the formation of their new company, Drive This Entertainment!. Click to Read The Full Story …

Cool Ways to Heat Up Las Vegas After Dark – Some of Las VegasÆ hottest nightspots are the easiest to enjoy. HereÆs where you can party all night long without the wait or the cover charge:

  • eyecandy sound lounge & bar at Mandalay Bay combines interactive tables, revolutionary sound stations and a touch-activated dance floor to create a unique sensory experience. VIP tables are available for purchase by the hour. bar: Daily, 11 a.m. û 4 a.m.; sound lounge: Nightly, beginning at 6 p.m.
  • Centrifuge at MGM Grand features a progressive music program and bever-tainers who perform nightly dance numbers. Also at MGM Grand, Rouge seduces guests with sleek chrome accents, Ferrari-red furnishings and a wall of glass bottles that flicker with sensuous images. Centrifuge: Daily, 4 p.m. û 4 a.m. Rouge: Monday û Thursday, 3 p.m. û 3 a.m.; Friday û Sunday, noon û 3 a.m.
  • Liquidity at Luxor uses technology to create an ever-changing lounge environment accented with walls of water that dance to the beat of the DJ. Nearby, Flight offers guests signature ôflightsö û three specialty cocktails with a shared theme. Daily, 24 hours
  • Gear up for a high-energy night at Octane at Excalibur û the hottest classic rock bar on The Strip. Featuring a display of custom-designed motorcycles, Octane features such specialty drinks as the Sweat and Gears Cosmo. Monday û Thursday, 5 p.m. û 2 a.m.; Friday, 5 p.m. û 3 a.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. û 3 a.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. û 2 a.m.
  • Fontana Bar at Bellagio pairs live entertainment with a spectacular view of the resortÆs famed fountains. Sunday û Thursday, 5 p.m. û 1 a.m.; Friday û Saturday, 5 p.m. û 2 a.m.

88 Couples Will Find Fortune With The “Lucky 8/8/08 Wedding Package” At The Stratosphere Casino Hotel And Tower – The Package Centers around En Masse Wedding Ceremony at 8:08 p.m. Las Vegas is the city of luck and weddings, and on 8/8/88, 88 lucky couples will be married en masse in a ceremony at 8:08 p.m. on Level 108- Indoor Observation Deck of the world famous Stratosphere Tower as part of the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower’s “Lucky 8/8/08 Wedding Package.” The cost of participation is $8.88 for the first 88 couples who contact the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower Catering Office. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $58, Sahara from $36, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $32, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I love the news letter and read it every time it comes out. Thank you.

I have to tell you about our last fabulous trip to Vegas. We are a little bit over average players and haunt mostly HarrahÆs properties with the occasional foray into Bellagio Mandalay Bay.

We were playing at Caesars and I hit $30,004 I ran to my wife who was thrilled, and she immediately hit $10,000 on some machine. Needless to say it was great but doesnÆt end there for a break we went to Bellagio and she hit another $10,000. Bellagio then bought us dinner and to show our thanks we hit a couple of other small jack pots. It was a great day.

We got a lock box at HarrahÆs and went to Fremont Street and damn if she didnÆt hit $10,000 at the Golden Nugget (sheÆs my favorite wife).

This trip was beyond our wildest dreams and of course I went to the Big boy room and played the big boy machines and won a little there I had Caesars cut a check so I didnÆt get drunk and blow it all.

We came home paid off every bill we had (except the cars and the house) and had enough left over to give to my good Uncle Sam on April the 15th.

I know that this was a once in a life time trip and will treasure it always, but I wanted to share it with you and say the Strip pays OK on occasion.

Jerry from Vero Beach Florida

á

Ted Responds:

Wow… that is one incredible run and the thing dreams are made of. Thank you so much for sharing it with us and let’s have some of that luck rub off to the rest of our readers for their next trip here to Las Vegas!

Say what you will about budget hotels my wife and I have returned to the Trop every year since 2001. It’s a little seedy sure, but the laid back atmosphere, the beautiful pool and old Vegas ambiance is as good as it gets. Add to that a Garden room with outdoor patio among the palm trees while enjoying a brandy and soda — heaven on earth. Good Lord willing, we’ll be back — at the Trop.

Al

Ted Responds:

Mark Jacobs (our News Researcher/Editor) had his parents in town a few weeks ago. They booked before he really knew and had a chance to take care of them. (They didn’t want to “trouble” us plus they had friends with them).

They stayed at Tropicana and had no problems at all, and found it a good value. The pool is great, and the location is great. Because the Tropicana is always a candidate for getting bought out and/or imploded, they aren’t pouring money into upgrading it. But despite the amount of feedback we get from visitors, I can’t remember the last time someone had a complaint about the “bang-for-the-buck” at Trop.

I recently visited Vegas for 4 days and enjoyed it. BUT the tables and slots are getting very, very difficult to win at. It is once in a blue moon that you win anything. I thoroughly enjoy Vegas and always have. I have probably made at least 15-20 trips there.á

Due to the ôtightnessö IÆll probably look elsewhere from here on in. The last few trips I keep telling myself that things will get better but they actually got worse. IÆll miss everything else about Vegas but when I gamble I need to win every once in awhile.

Thanks for the newsletter I enjoy that as well.

Christopher Kujawa

Ted Responds:

You aren’t the only one. While it is still possible to come and have a great run like Jerry did or at least go home a winner, table game rules are worse and slots seem tighter. You used to be able to put $20 in a machine and know you’d get some decent play. Now it seems like you might as well set the $20 bill on fire. As I’ve noted before, Nevada gaming revenue is down. Perhaps if they gave you a better shot at winning (like they did for decades), people would be willing to play more.

Thanks for the input and thanks for reading. Please do tell your Vegas visiting friends about the newsletter!

I really look forward to receiving your wonderful news letter. I have been going to Las Vegas at least once a year for over 30 years now and I enjoy the town but I REALLY enjoy the news letter. so, keep up the outstanding good work!!á

Clearnce from Garden City, KS

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

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

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:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

July 2, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 25, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The ONLY July 4’th fireworks on The Strip appears to be at Mandalay Bay this year following a performance by the band Vertical Horizon at about 10:30 PM. Since they will occur over Mandalay Beach, best bet to see them is somewhere south of the hotel (down by the Welcome to Las Vegas sign). No word on displays from The Stratosphere or Hilton (who have traditionally done a show).

Bad Move. Whenever July 4 falls on a Friday or Saturday night, the LVCVA (Visitors Authority) should spend a couple hundred thousand shooting off fireworks from selected casinos (a la New Years Eve). Station Casinos is doing such with their own private money at a number of their local casinos just for locals. Go figure!

Fireworks will be happening all over most of the Las Vegas Valley (way out in those suburbs). My advice? There will be fireworks in Henderson (Southeast), Anthem (South) and a bunch in the Northeast part of town. If you are on a higher floor with a view in those directions, you should be able to see various displays between about 9 – 10:45 PM.

Elvis is close to getting a star on the Las Vegas Strip if the local Viva Las Vegas Club can finish raising the needed cash. (The stars themselves or their fan clubs must fund the placement). They are only $2000 short according to local columnist Norm Clarke. More info on the effort and how to contribute at http://www.astarforelvis.com

We found some great photos from a couple of months ago that never made it up. If you are between Las Vegas visits (and a little longer between visits than you’d like to be because of the U.S. economy or you simply can’t make it here soon), these should help keep you going!

Las Vegas Strip including Wynn Las Vegas construction, the site of Frontier implosion (future Echelon Place, construction on the Mirage volcano and some surprises:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

We’ve also added new photos to our Stratosphere Tower Las Vegas section:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

Click on both of the above photos to enjoy their respective photo sets. We have some amazing brand new photos coming over the next few weeks!

Southwest Airlines is bucking the trend by maintaining their level of service to Las Vegas! They are bucking the trend of airline service cuts (especially to tourist markets) and will continue their strong presence here. Because they are profitable, Southwest has a history of picking up the ball when other airlines have to cut service. This is great news U.S. residents who are missing Las Vegas! Keeping the level of air service here helps mute continued airfare increases.

Now if the casino bean counters would get their heads out of their hindquarters and realize that Las Vegas was built for decades on loose slots, cheap rooms and cold (frequent) beverage service. They think “tighter slots equal more revenue” when the reality is “tighter slots drive people away from playing.”

Speaking of… I think one of our readers got a letter to the editor of our local paper published. Mary Huber of Archibold, Ohio wrote the letter Soaking Tourists (click the link and scroll down to that letter).

The MTV awards are headed back to Los Angeles after playing The Palms last year (the show that an infamously pudgy and “out of it” Britney Spears opened, seemingly sinking what was left of her career). No word on why the move, although the awards have generally rotated between New York and Miami.

Tropicana is advertising “A Real Pool Party For Real People” with DJ’s, live entertainment, dancing, and food/drink specials from Noon until 11 PM (evidently daily) at their pool. I’m guessing this is a pool event where you it is OK to NOT dress and act like the latest “in trouble” celebrity.

Jay Leno raised around $200,000 during his two benefit shows (mentioned last issue) for Iowa flood victims. ALL proceeds went to those affected as The Mirage donated the room. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to not just those in Iowa but all affected by these weeks of Midwest weather and flooding related disasters.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To Your Favorite Event!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Dave Matthews Band, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Jonas Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Kenny Chesney, Elton John, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, Rush, Chris Rock, 3 Doors Down, ColdPlay, Janet Jackson, Van Morrison, Carrie Underwood, Nine Inch Nails, Maroon 5, Trace Adkins, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Blue Man Group Las Vegas – A Show With No Rules

by Mark Marino

Before any performers take the stage at the Blue Man Group Theatre, there is a looming sense that this kind of show can go anywhere at anytime. Even the theater itself is shell of mystery waiting to come to life. After some mood lifting jokes grab the audiences’ attention, the pulse of the room is jolted with masterful live drums. The first real glimpse of the Blue Man Group in the spotlight brings the audience into their funky universe of light, humor and music. The front few rows might feel the drums raining in their laps as each hit triggers both a sound and a splash of bright colorful liquid. A theme of messy fun makes itself known here whenever possible.

The show is consistently funny, but there is a great wealth of entertainment in Blue Man’s grip of the unexpected. The Blue Men introduce their talent of weaving together rhythms of both music and comedy with lively finesse. It isn’t long into this show that the audience is bracing for the next act with equal parts laughter and exhilaration.

Click to Read Entire Blue Man Group Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Gordie Brown – A Las Vegas Evening With A Lifetime Of Celebs

by Erika Bayer-Polak

If you are looking for a lively fast-paced show filled with music, comedy and impersonations, Gordie Brown is a sure bet for an enjoyable evening. And even though his show is at 10 p.m., he keeps his act rather clean by late show standards. Unless you are an austere puritan, walking away from this show offended is impossible.

Brown manages to seamlessly morph his solid voice to correspond to a wide variety of performers, from Chris Isaak to Roy Orbison, from Willie Nelson to Tracy Chapman, from M.C. Hammer to 4 Non Blondes. Brown also seems to make a point in impersonating performers who had their heydays in the 1950s to performers who are presently at the top of their game. Covering such an assortment of acts is certainly a sure way to appease all generations in the audience.

Click to Read Entire Gordie Brown Las Vegas Review…

The National Hockey League (NHL) Returns To Las Vegas As The Los Angeles Kings Face The Colorado Avalanche In “Frozen Fury XI” At MGM Grand Saturday, September 27 – The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Los Angeles Kings return to Las Vegas for “Frozen Fury XI” when they host an NHL pre-season game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Sept. 27 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. (Tickets) Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m. “Frozen Fury XI” plans to feature a line-up of NHL all-star players from both rosters including Kings players Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Jack Johnson. Avalanche all-stars scheduled to appear include Paul Stastny and Ryan Smyth. Click to Read The Full Story …

Criss Angel Believe – A New Show By Cirque du Soleil At Luxor – Tickets on sale for preview and regular performances of CRISS ANGEL Believe, the new Cirque du Soleil production set to open at Luxor Las Vegas. CRISS ANGEL Believe starring Criss Angel will open for preview performances September 1 and hold its Gala Premiere September 12, 2008. Criss Angel is recognized as one of the most provocative artists in the world today. In an attempt to pay homage to the late/great Harry Houdini, Criss chose “Believe” as the title for this unprecedented live experience. Click to Read The Full Story …

Unwind With An Unbelievable Happy Hour On The Patio At Dick’s Last Resort – The Strip’s Most Outrageous Outpost Offers Daily Happy Hour – As summer sets in and the temperature in Las Vegas heats up, The Strip’s wackiest watering hole, Dick’s Last Resort, celebrates the season with a spectacular new Happy Hour. From 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily, Dick’s invites guests to its Strip-side patio to enjoy all-you-can-drink Bud Light drafts for $20. Dick’s patio features a full-service bar, flat screen TVs and misters to keep cool while kicking back and catching all the action of the Las Vegas Strip. Famous for its deliciously messy cuisine, zany decor, rowdy wait staff, live music and let-loose atmosphere, Dick’s Last Resort provides a new level of fun in the city known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” Come get your kicks at Dick’s!

World Poker Tour« Returns To Bellagio For Bellagio Cup IV July 2-17 – The World Poker Tour« (WPT) kicks off Season VII next month when it returns to Bellagio July 2-17 for Bellagio Cup IV. The two-week event begins Wednesday, July 2 and consists of seven no limit hold ’em tournaments ranging from $2,000-$5,000, along with seven, $1,500 super satellite no limit hold ’em events. The WPT main event, which requires an entry fee of $15,000, begins Friday, July 11 with the final table scheduled for Thursday, July 17. The WPT main event champion will receive the first place prize money as well as a $25,000 seat in the April 2009 WPT World Championship at Bellagio. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $31, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $49, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

This section will return next issue. Because of new software installs that will bring major improvements to AccessVegas.com and our sister sites in the next few weeks, I’m running behind this week.

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

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

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:

  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 25, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 18, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We are revamping our newsletter site https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com into a blog-style format. We’ve been doing this newsletter (which pretty much amounts to a weekly blog) since 1999, long before the word blog or blog-style websites existed. For those of you who read this newsletter online, bear with us. The current blog format is very readable, but can (and will) be inproved over the next few weeks to match the look, style and readability of our online version.

This also allows users of RSS/XML feeds two options for following everything here at AccessVegas.com:

  • Only This Newsletter: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/feed/
  • Everything new on AccessVegas.com (show reviews, photos, new stories and features) as it happens:
    http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

An “Only In Nevada” Type of Gas Card Promotion – According to the Review-Journal, A brother in Beatty, NV (about 130 miles north of Las Vegas) is offering gas cards ranging from $50 to $100 depending on how much you spend. Although the long-standing myth is that prositiution is legal in Las Vegas, the reality is that it is not legal in any county of over 400,000 residents. This includes Clark County (Las Vegas) despite all of the “dancers” to your room handbills.

Since Clark County is roughly the size of New Jersey and Las Vegas is centrally located in the county, this means quite a drive for those who want to indulge in the “world’s oldest profession”.

My suggestion if you are going to drive a couple of hours from Las Vegas? Take in Dante’s View which overlooks much of Death Valley. (Just don’t do it in the summer). Google Maps Street view has a great 360 degree shot of Dante’s View.

Open Your Wallet For Nevada Education – Once upon a time (prior to 2000), families didn’t move to Las Vegas in droves. Families living here didn’t expect Nevada to rank high nationally when it came to education. In fact, I recal numerous business news stories in the 90’s noting the difficulty of recruiting family men to work here in Las Vegas.

Most people were employed in gaming (or tourism-related jobs) and gaming taxes did a fine job of helping fund education.

Oh… how times have changed. Over a million people (including many families) have flocked to live here since then and now expect our education system to be as good as it was in the high-tax states they fled from. And… they want to do it on your backs. Right out of the pocketbook of our visitors. Read more: Nevadans say let tourists pay – Support strong for raising hotel room tax from 10 percent to 13 percent

Las Vegas unelmployment rate is above the national average. I wouldn’t suggest moving here unless you have a job waiting for you. Ironically enough, it is the construction downturn playing a big roll. Fewer people moving here means less new home, condo, and apartment construction. Not trying to sound negative. This is a great place to visit, and a pretty cool place to live. If you have a job.

Jay Leno’s Las Vegas shows next week will benefit Iowa flood victims. Emmy Award-winning comedian and television host Jay Leno will perform two special engagements at The Mirage Wednesday, June 25 and Friday, June 27 at 10 p.m. with proceeds going to The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Tickets are priced at $90 plus tax and are available at The Mirage box office or call (702) 792-7777.

My dad was born in Iowa where the family ran a service station in Dubuque before relocating to Santa Monica, CA in his youth so I have some ties to the state. It is absolutely heartbreaking to see the flooding and our hearts and prayers go out to all affected.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To An Event Near You!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Elton John, Jonas Brothers, Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett, Dave Matthews Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Kenny Chesney, ColdPlay, James Taylor, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, The Cure, Rush, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Experience The Spice Of Life at “V The Ultimate Variety Show”

by Erin Guernsey

The old saying “variety is the spice of life” rings true at “V The Ultimate Variety Show.” Audience members are privy to witness an assortment of talented artists as they perform individualized specialty acts at the V Theatre inside the Miracle Mile Shops at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

The show opens with the flamboyantly-funny host. This man strings together the various specialty acts with his amusing sense of humor. As the show progresses the audience learns that he is more than just a host. He is an accomplished performer who possesses excellent juggling skills. His skills range from juggling batons in the air, to hats on his head and even ping-pong balls in his mouth.

Click to Read Entire V Variety Show Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…

Featured Review:
Crazy Girls Keeps It Simple, Yet Sensual and Captivating

by Guy Chapman

For over twenty years now, “Crazy Girls” has just been one of those Las Vegas mainstays. From its iconic bronze statue in front of the Riviera that tourists rub for good luck, to the ads that one can’t help but see when traveling The Strip, it’s easy to see why, once stepping into the fun-filled and sexy world of “Crazy Girls”.

The closest comparison to defining “Crazy Girls” is similar to what people would expect a classic “Golden Age” Las Vegas show to be. The girls perform a variety of acts that are playful and cheeky to sensual and alluring, set to music from the classic burlesque age to more modern songs. “Crazy Girls” keeps it simple, yet captivating, and for regular show-goers on The Strip, it makes for an experience that isn’t going to be found just anywhere else.

Click to Read Entire Crazy Girls Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…

Celebrate The 4th Of July With Vertical Horizon And Mix 94.1 At Mandalay Bay Beach – Evening Highlighted By A Fireworks Extravaganza – Celebrate the 4th of July at Mandalay Bay Beach with Vertical Horizon and MIX 94.1-FM. A pre-concert barbeque at Border Grill will begin at 6 p.m.; the concert is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. and will be followed by a fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. The barbeque at Border Grill will be available for an additional charge and will include great food, drink specials and prize giveaways. The show will be presented by MIX 94.1-FM and Mandalay Bay and the tickets are priced at $35, not including applicable taxes and service charges. Click to Read The Full Story …

New Female Lead Singer, Felice Garcia, Takes The Stage In The Folies Bergere At The Tropicana – Felice Garcia joins the cast of the legendary Folies Bergere (Tickets) as the new principal female singer at the Tropicana Resort & Casino. Felice is very familiar with the stage, performing since the young age of nine in talent shows, musicals, plays, pageants, civic events and other miscellaneous functions. This is her first big production show and is very excited to become part of the Folies Bergere family. “It was my dream as a child to be part of a well-known stage production like the Folies Bergere,” says Felice. “What better place to get my start in show business than in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Toby Keith Brings His “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008” To Mandalay Bay Saturday, July 26 With Special Guest Montgomery Gentry – Tour also will Feature 2008’s Hottest New Country Talent Including Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir. Toby Keith, a multi-platinum country music superstar, will bring his “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008” sponsored by Ford F-Series, to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 26. (Tickets) Academy of Country Music award-winner Montgomery Gentry, as well as Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir, will open the show at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

First Lucky Winner At Sahara Hotel & Casino Wins Instant Upgrade To “Elvis” Penthouse Suite – Thomas Bagshaw was selected as the first winner of the Sahara Hotel & Casino’s Instant Upgrade promotion. Mr. Bagshaw, who had booked a standard room, was informed at check-in that he had been upgraded to the fabulous Presidential Suite, formerly inhabited by Elvis Presley during the filming of the classic film, “Viva Las Vegas.” Mr. Bagshaw hails from Gact, California. During the months of May through August, the legendary Sahara is offering the opportunity for hotel guests to win an instant upgrade to one of the Sahara’s most requested and famous classic penthouse suites – The Beatles Suite, where the Fab Four stayed in 1964 or The Presidential Suite, which has hosted such luminaries as The King himself, Elvis Presley. Click to Read The Full Story …

Pop Music Icon Janet Jackson To Bring Her “Rock Witchu Tour” To Mandalay Bay Friday, September 19 – Pop music icon Janet Jackson returns to the touring circuit for the first time in seven years when she kicks off her “Rock Witchu Tour” September 10 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour will land at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Sept. 19 and the concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. (Tickets) The tour will feature the hit songs and innovative dance routines that have made Jackson one of the most celebrated artists in history. She has undeniably influenced pop culture with more than 100 million albums sold as well as countless hit singles, awards and accolades. Click to Read The Full Story …

Fun in the Sun, Las Vegas Style – The heat of summer is here, and many hotel pools are sure bet for a cool escape. Dip into these latest ways to make a splash in Las Vegas:

    À

  • MGM Grand unveils WET REPUBLIC, an alluring 53,000-square-foot ultra pool combining an exclusive nightlife vibe with poolside pampering and relaxation. An adults-only mecca for discerning partygoers, the glitterati and celebrities, WET REPUBLIC features distinct experiences within a series of intimate spaces and will redefine poolside entertainment as the first ultra pool in the world’s sexiest city. Elite VIP service, high-end amenities and renowned entertainers will be the standard at WET REPUBLIC.
  • Already a crowd favorite, Mandalay Bay Beach at Mandalay Bay now features the only climate-controlled poolside gaming on The Strip. Nearby, Moorea Beach Club continues to draw sunseekers by providing high-energy music in a luxurious setting.

  • A paradise fit for royalty, the Excalibur pool has doubled its size – adding two luxurious pools and 17 cabanas stocked with all the essentials to keep cool. Just steps away, Drenched offers the latest in causal poolside dining.
  • In just a year, Bare at The Mirage has made a big splash. The adult pool, known best for its European-style sun bathing and exclusive VIP service, has quickly become a must visit for celebrities ranging from Fergie to Leonardo DiCaprio. New for 2008, Bare features a delectable menu by California Pizza Kitchen.

“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” And Netflix Join Forces To Find Contestants In Las Vegas – Channel 13 Welcomes “Millionaire” Producers for Contestant Auditions Wednesday, June 25 at Cannery Casino & Hotel in North Las Vegas, NV. “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” hosted by Emmy Award-winning host Meredith Vieira, and Netflix, the company that makes movie enjoyment easy, will join forces on Wednesday, June 25 in the Las Vegas, Nevada area to find contestants for the fourth installment of “Netflix Million Dollar Movie Week,” a specialty show which will feature movie-themed questions. Auditioners will also be given the opportunity to try out for a regular episode of the hit game show’s upcoming seventh season. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $59, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $36, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $48, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

HI Ted,

I recently visited Vegas for 4 days and enjoyed it BUT the tables and slots are getting very, very difficult to win at. It is once in a blue moon that you win anything. I thoroughly enjoy Vegas and always have. I have probably made at least 15-20 trips there. Due to the “tightness” I’ll probably look elsewhere from here on in. 

The last few trips I keep telling myself that things will get better but they actually got worse. I’ll miss everything else about Vegas but when I gamble I need to win every once in awhile.

Thanks for the newsletter I enjoy that as well.

Christopher Kujawa

Ted Responds:

You aren’t the only one. Gaming win keep dropping despite pretty steady visitorship. Those with no clue blame it on the economy here in the U.S. but the rest of us know better:

Table game rules are worse and slots seem tighter. You used to be able to put $20 in a machine and know you’d get some decent play. Now you might as well set the $20 bill on fire. Why even bother? Your money is better spent at a top-end show, one of the many area tours (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam… even a Mob Tour), or blowing it on a fine meal. At least you are getting some bang-for-your-buck.

Side Note: If gambling, do it downtown. The table game rules tend to be more favorible to the player and the slots seem to be looser (from the many reports that we get). Plus, they are much more thankful for your patronage.

Thanks for the input and thanks for reading. Please do tell your Vegas visiting friends about the newsletter!

My husband and I jst returned from Vegas. We had the the best time at the Cher concert. What a lovely lady she is and her show was worth the trip. I love Vegas! Keep up the good job you do on your newsletter. I read it everytime.

Thank You,

Kay

We are looking to get married in our fave place Vegas in may of 2009. We wanted to do it at The Nugget downtown as it has a large special meaning to us. No Elvis or married by Martians. Just a simple ceremony with a few close friends. Any do’s, dont’s or any other thoughts?

We both went through the big Circus wedding and now after finding each other (the mate we dreamed of) we just want something simple and nice. Any thoughts would be helpful!

Tim and Mary

Ted Responds:

Tim and Mary,

Contrats and a couple of thoughts:

I don’t believe that the GN has a wedding chapel. However, an overlooked way of doing a wedding is to rent one of the nicest suites (the kind with more than one room, a great view and similar) and have the wedding there. one can do this regardless of hotel.

The downside is having to do a little bit of legwork to arrange the minister, cake, and similar but a web search can go a long way there.

Also, much can probably be catered by the hotel. You may wish to call the hotel, tell them your thoughts, and ask what they can do (and the cost).

If you even want to keep things more simple, ask about the possibility of doing the ceremony by the pool, in a lounge (before it is open for the evening) or even on the casino floor. I know of a popular Los Angeles TV personality who got married at the craps tables at Caesars a couple of years ago!

If you want a bunch of random well-wishers, you can even get married on Fremont Street in front of the hotel.

Bottom Line: Provided you are staying at said hotel, call ahead and tell them you want to get married at the hotel and make it clear you want to talk to someone who handles group events at the hotel (or at least someone in catering). That person is best suited to work with 

Hope this helps and please let us know your progress!

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

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

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:

  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 18, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 11, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Hot and windy is the word here this week. Those constant 100 degree days look like they are here to stay for the summer. Still… there is something nice about being able to enjoy the Las Vegas Strip well into the evening and late night without getting chilly. Speaking of summer parties and events…

What do you get by adding one part Ditch Friday pool party and one part LA Sunset Tan? One amazing afternoon at Palms Las Vegas!

Ditch Friday Pool Party Palms Las Vegas

LA Sunset Tan launched their 2008 Sexy Swimwear Collection with a poolside fashion show at Ditch Friday on May 30’th. (Another tough assignment for news editor/photographer Mark Jacobs). Ditch Friday is the weekly Friday afternoon lounge/party at The Palms pool area and features live musical performances, prize giveaways, and designer fashion shows throughout the summer.

This weekly event runs through October 3, 2008 and is open to the public ($20 cover, local ladies complimentary).

LA Sunset Tan Bikini Show

At this event, the entire cast of E!’s hit reality show “Sunset Tan” was on hand including the Ollie Girls, LA Sunset Tan owners Devin Haman and Jeff Bozz, Janelle Perry, Nick D’Anna, Ania Migdal and Erin Tietsort and can be seen in many of the following photos:

Spamalot closes in about one month so this is your last chance to see it on Las Vegas. Click on the Spamalot button in the right sidebar of this newsletter to save on some of the final tickets available!

We receive weekly reader email expressing concern over what many of you feel that Las Vegas has become. Everything went so upscale that the price of visiting went through the roof. At the same time, the slots and table games both got tighter. To top it off, traveling to Las Vegas from international destinations continues to get more difficult.

A word to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Bureau and our elected leaders: You can advertise internationally all you like, but until it gets less difficult for worldwide visitors to get here… much of that advertising will fall on deaf ears.

In addition, Nevada has two prominent U.S. Senators that should be doing something about about this. Stopping terrorism is one thing, but harassing people with two-hour waits in immigration lines at the airport is out-of-line. Perhaps Senators Reid and Ensign (both of who are in powerful positions working on the coming elections) shouldn’t forget that the state they represent relies especially on international visitors because of current local worldwide economics.

What can you as readers do? Continue to write a “Letter To The Editor” of our Review-Journal newspaper (as it is read by the politicians).

Last month, the Sunday paper contained a number of protest letters (scroll down that page to Shakedown and the following letters). Time for more of them!

Don’t be shy… You can submit your own comments to our local paper online at:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/about/print/press/letterstoeditor.html

Don’t assume the “other guy” will do it. If our readers unite and bombard our paper, you’ll see plenty of new coverage our politicians can’t ignore.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To An Event Near You!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Tina Turner, Neil Diamond, ColdPlay, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, Jonas Brothers, The Police, Kenny Chesney, Dave Matthews Band, Rush, Tim McGraw, Eric Clapton, New Kids On The Block, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Las Vegas Showgirls Shine On In Jubilee! at Bally’s

by Lincoln Hudson

Having observed how the Las Vegas Strip has dramatically changed over the years in order to exclusively cater to the palette of the under thirties, sometimes it is good to come across a show that makes one pinch oneself and remember the entertainment that built Las Vegas and continues to cater to adults of all ages.

One of the shows doing such is Jubilee! at Bally’s Hotel and Casino. If you need a break from watching French Canadian clowns pushing life size plastic balls across the stage, then Jubilee! is the right piece of camp, topless, musical brain candy for you.

Click to Read Entire Jubilee! Las Vegas Review…

Madonna’s Yummy “Sticky & Sweet Tour” Lands At MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, November 8 – Madonna, the world’s sweetheart, has announced more non-stop treats for her legions of legendary and devoted fans. (Tickets) Following the latest news that her album Hard Candy has debuted at No. 1 around the globe, it has been confirmed that Madonna’s “Sticky & Sweet Tour” will stop at the MGM Grand Garden Arena November 8 and 9, 2008. Click to Read The Full Story … Free Cash For Gas Promotion Rolls Out At The Tropicana – The Tropicana Las Vegas introduces the “Roll 4 Gas” promotion, allowing guests a chance at winning $100 cash for gas. “With the continual increase in gas prices, who wouldn’t want a chance at winning cash to help pay for travel expenses?” says John Sevilla, Tropicana’s Hotel General Manager. To participate in the “Roll 4 Gas promotion,” simply book a room at the Tropicana for travel during the dates of May 25 – August 28, 2008. Upon arrival, during check-in at the hotel’s front desk, roll four dice for a chance to win. The different outcomes, earn certain prizes: Click to Read The Full Story …The Showgirl Goes On With New Block Of Tickets For Sale – Performances Through The End Of 2008 Of Bette Midler’s Vegas Hit On Sale Now – Mark your calendars because Bette Midler is back! Returning on June 24 from her hugely successful opening in February, The Divine Miss M. is celebrating her next set of shows by putting 29 more up for sale. (Tickets) As of Sunday, June 1 Midler fans can reserve tickets to see her sassy stage show during performances from October through December 2008. “If you haven’t been to Vegas to see me,” says Midler, “hop a plane or steal a car, but get your butt out here. I’m giving Sin City a roasting and toasting she’ll never forget.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Denver Dancer Cheryl Loves Performing In ‘Crazy Girls’ Nightly – Cheryl move to Las Vegas from Denver five years ago and never looked back after joining “Crazy Girls” as a professional dancer in 2005 at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. (Tickets) Dance was always a good behavior reward from her parents. She said, “I grew up as an only child and my mother was a secretary and my father worked as a building inspector. I feel like I’ve been dancing my whole life. I’m living my dream now. Click to Read The Full Story …

Country Superstar Alan Jackson Takes The Stage At Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, August 16 – Country superstar Alan Jackson will perform live in concert at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, Aug. 16. (Tickets) The “Good Time” tour will complement Jackson’s most recent album release, Good Time, as well as his impressive catalog of crowd-pleasing, chart-topping hits. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. The single “Good Time” from Jackson’s new Arista Nashville album, is a honky-tonk jam that is tremendously easygoing yet edgy. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: N-k-d Eskimo – with Victor H. Royer. No, this article is not about the famous poker player Eskimo Clark, clothed or otherwise. It is instead a fable from a time more innocent, a time of great joy, and a time when poker was not just a game û it was an event. The time is 1983, in the weeks spanning Christmas and New YearÆs festivities. It is a story personal to me, and one that to this day warms my heart. It is also a story of something quite funny û but IÆm getting ahead of myself. First, letÆs set the stage à Click to Read Complete Article…

Editors Note: We aren’t trying to play Wheel of Fortune with the article title. Certain words trigger spam filters which could prohibit this newsletter from reaching you.

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $59, Flamingo from $59, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $38, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $48, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just a question about taxi fares. Do the drivers charge a flat rate or do they charge by the person?Thank you,
Shirley

Ted Responds:

Up to 5 can ride for the same price. They charge per mile (plus an initial fee and wait time) but there is no extra per-person charge.

There is a coupon for the additional Maine lobster tail. Ordinarily you are charged $5.99. They are hard to find. Could you do some research and find out where you can get the coupon?

Also there is supposed to be a discount coupon for the buffet at the Rio as well.

Thanks,

MikeTed Responds:With so many different coupon books and tourist magazines floating around town (and the fact that any coupons or offers in them can change weekly), tracking or finding one particular coupon is next to impossible.

Best advice is to flip through the tourist magazines when you hit town and see if there is a coupon for something you specifically want to do or see.

In general, a couple of notes on coupons:

1. Don’t use one to go out of your way to something you weren’t already interested in. Your time here is often short and precious. Spending an hour or two going out of your way to save a few bucks on something you aren’t sure about can turn into a waste of time.

2. Don’t expect to find coupons for the top shows. If you have one or more “must see” shows, buy the tickets in advance or you may face a sold-out situation when you arrive.

Hope this helps,

Hi Ted,

My wife & I have just got home to England from our annual trip to your wonderful city. We saw some great shows, the Rat Pack was one of the best ever. The Dean Martin impersonator was almost as good as the “Dean” himself. We will be back next year (hope we recognise the place with all the new buildings) for our yearly pick me up.

By for now,

John & Jean (Manchester)

Ted Responds:

The Rat Pack Is Back is one of those often overlooked shows that always seems to get raves from those who check it out. Adding to the ambiance is the very retro showroom at The Plaza hosting the show. We’ll be sending a writer to do a full review soon.

In the meantime, those wanting to enjoy the show for themselves can click to The Rat Pack Is Back Tickets

Hi, My husband and I just returned from Vegas. we had the the best time at the Cher concert. What a lovely lady she is and her show was worth the trip.

I love Vegas! Keep up the good job you do on your newsletter. I read it every time.

Thank You,

Kay

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

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

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:

  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10

Link To Us! – Have a homepage, 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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 11, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 28, 2008

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com and can only be signed up for there. We do not buy or rent lists, and this information is only for our members and guests. If you feel you have received it in error, click the unsubscribe link at the bottom. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! As usual, both the Las Vegas Strip and Fremont Street were jammed over Memorial Day weekend. The cool weather (partly cloudy, mild temps) keep the mood slightly more subdued than usual but hey… 70 degrees (F)á beats the 108 we had the week before!

A big congratulations goes to Mac King for being named the top Comedy Magician in the world according to Magic Magazine (April 2008 issue). I have the actual issue and was very impressed that this wasn’t just some “award” but a careful, scientific, peer-chosen determination.

He actually beat out both Penn and Teller and The Amazing Johnathan, two names which have had far greater media exposure. Plus, the price is right. Mac King is an afternoon show that will be both easy on your wallet and get you our of our pending summer heat.

Tickets for Las Vegas’ top comedy magic shows:

Las Vegas Rio Sky ShowThe new Rio “Show in the Sky” has just (and I mean JUST) launched. We haven’t even had time to pop over and see it, but the press stuff they sent out notes it is much more sexy and sensual, including three different shows:

With three different shows, guests are encouraged to stay a while for an all new experience to see a unique show each time. The bedroom style performance will feature a 17 foot-long bed with high-energy performers of seduction. The bath/spa style performance will encompass a glamorous stage with sexy girls in towels. The modern-day club performance brings the feeling of old Hollywood glamour meets classic burlesque with accents of rhinestones and feathers throughout.

Shows play nightly on the hour from 7 PM to Midnight.

Las Vegas Second Most Digital Savvy – I never thought I’d see this day, but Las Vegas recently ranked second (behind Austin, TX) as the nation’s most digitally savvy city. This is a huge turn-around. When I launched AccessVegas.com in 1997 (and the predecessor two years earlier) as strictly online publications, casinos didn’t have websites and it seemed rare to find someone in upper management who knew what the internet was.

The Scarborough Research study cited the relatively young average age of residents, median household income of $53,000, higher tech penetration of warm, Western (US) cities, and the transient nature of the residents. This makes sense as people in their 20’s and early 30’s move here thinking they’ll have some fun, make some cash, then move back home (or move on to Southern California, Phoenix, or San Francisco). More of this story available here: Digital Savvy In Sin City

On the party front…

Dick’s last resort is brewing up beer pong, putting a silly spin on this infamous drinking game. They note:

DickÆs Last Resort invites you to test your skills at Bar Pong, the restaurantÆs very own rowdy rendition of the popular past time that is beer pong. With DickÆs entertainer extraordinaire Taco acting as the rambunctious referee, the game has never been this fun.

A touch of truth or dare is tossed in to add a twist as missed shots result in kooky challenges that will have everyone laughing. Whether flying solo or with friends, pick one of DickÆs 18 draft beers and join in the everlasting excitement where everyone is a winner.

Where: DickÆs Last Resort at Excalibur. When: 7 pm û Late, Wednesday û Sunday.

June 5 brings another edition of “Cinco de Taco” at the Pink Taco inside the Hard Rock Hotel offering $2 Coronas and Corona Lights, $3 Sauza Hornitos shots, $3.75 Sauza Hornitos margaritas as well as half-off appetizers from 4 p.m. until closing. “Cinco de Taco” features a live Mariachi band beginning at 6 p.m., and girls dressed in lingerie will be participating in three unique Pinata bashings filled with Love Jones lingerie. Click the above photo for previous “Cinco de Taco” photos.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
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Featured Review:
Take a Plunge Into The Mystical World Of Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere

by Denise Almas

The circus is coming. The circus is coming! Don’t be late or you may find yourself following an unconventional looking clown instead of an usher to your seat — or perhaps someone else’s seat. Thus begins the stunning and surrealistic Cirque du Soleil production of Mystere. As soon as the doors close, the ringmaster takes over and the true action begins with a baby playing ball and looking for his “papa”. After finding a “papa” in the audience, the story begins to unfold in a vibrant and visually stimulating performance.

With the exit of the ringmaster, the performers come alive with unusual costumes, dancing, and death defying acts that only highly trained professionals could deliver with poise, grace, and beauty. As music heightens the performances, these athletes fly through the air, balance on top of each other, and bring to life the mysteries of human emotion and capabilities. Without missing a beat, these international athletes perform feats such as the aerial high bar, bungee, and Chinese Poles.

Click to Read Entire Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Elton John Songs Improve With Time In Red Piano

by Lincoln Hudson

Stepping out onto the stage at Caesars Palace one can only gasp at the enormous enigma that Sir Elton John has become. Clearly older and wiser this superb and universal entertainer has lost none of the talent and passion that makes him easily one of the worlds greatest performers.

Red Piano is a magnificent show that beautifully uses the technology of both multi-media and film to tell the story and sub text of his songs. Elton John is not just a talented rock star but he is also quite clearly an Artist whose talent also includes writing hit musicals and adapting opera’s. Most amazing of all I find is the forever deepening sub text of his songs that go back almost thirty years.

Click to Read Entire Elton John Red Piano Las Vegas Review…

Harrah’s Hosts World’s Most Esteemed Flair Bartending Competition June 3 – 5 – Bartenders vie for cash and the coveted Ultimate Flair Bartending Championship Title. Harrah’s Carnaval Court welcomes the world’s most skilled flair bartenders June 3 -5, for the fourth annual international bartending competition, Ultimate Flair Bartending Championship (UFBC). The outdoor, Strip-side venue has earned the reputation as the world’s premier flair bar, thus it is fitting that the best-of-the-best flock to Carnaval Court to compete for the title of UFBC champ. Click to Read The Full Story …

Legendary Entertainer Wayne Newton Will Perform At MGM Grand July 31 – August 6 – “Mr. Las Vegas” Wayne Newton will light up the stage inside MGM Grand’s Hollywood Theatre for a seven-night engagement July 31 û August 6. (Tickets) Show time is 8:30 p.m. nightly. Additional performances will go on sale later this year. This appearance marks Newton’s first performance at MGM Grand since 1999. Newton has been entertaining audiences worldwide for more than 60 years having started at the age of four years old. After several appearances on ABC’s popular hit series “Dancing with the Stars,” Newton returns to MGM Grand to perform alongside a 22-piece orchestra. Click to Read The Full Story …

Love Bites at Shark Reef Aquarium – Imagine tying the knot as sharks and other dangerous predators float by. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay offers couples the chance to say “I do” in this unforgettable setting. Coordinated by the professional staff of “THE wedding chapel” at Mandalay Bay, the Shark Reef Wedding Package includes a bouquet and garter for the bride, boutonniere for the groom, minister, pianist, a wedding album and more. Priced at $1,175, tax excluded. Call 702-632-4555 for more details.

Star-Studded Lineup Gathering For Ladies No-Limit Hold’em Poker Event June 8 At The World Series Of Poker – Stars Teri Hatcher, Joely Fisher plus Cheryl Hines, Camryn Manheim and Mindy McCready among Celebrities Scheduled to Participate at Rio Las Vegas. While poker continues to grow worldwide, one of the biggest areas of growth is coming from female participation. Thus, the anticipation for this year’s World Series of Poker female-only event, the $1,000 buy-in No Limit Hold’em World Championship, is greater than ever before. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Time Reunite At Flamingo Las Vegas – All-Time Greatest Party Band Together Again For The First Time In 18 Years – Flamingo Las Vegas presents special limited dates of legendary Minneapolis funk band, The Time, June 24 – July 5 and July 29 – Aug. 2. (Tickets) These exclusive performances mark the first time the original band members have performed together in 18 years, following their acclaimed appearance at this year’s Grammy Awards. The master of cool, Morris Day, will reunite with his original band mates, valet Jerome Benton, drummer Jellybean Johnson, bass player Terry Lewis, guitarist Jesse Johnson and keyboard artists Jimmy Jam and Monte Moir to perform all of their classic hits. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: The King and I Part Two – with Victor H. Royer. Neither Lady M nor the King ever had to worry about announcing themselves, or about reservations. They just showed up whenever they felt like it. In this case, the King had a problem with Lady M, and so the casino thought they had a problem. But the King was very well adjusted. He wasnÆt fretting about it. He simply did whatever it was that he did in his suite, and when Lady M finally left, he came down to play his machines.á

Me being there must have, at first, seemed like it was going to be another problem for everybody, but the KingÆs graciousness and understanding resolved the situation and rendered a potential problem totally moot. I was actually quite impressed by him, the way he acted, and his royal persona. Click to Read Complete Article…

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To An Event Near You!

NBA Playoffs, Tina Turner, Madonna American Idols Live, New Kids On The Block, Bon Jovi, Rascal Flatts, Brad Paisley, Stevie Wonder, Widespread Panic, Cold Play, Carlos Mencia , Melissa Etheridge, Music Build Tour, Ringling Bros Circus, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just reading your news letter and especially the part about the planes. This bit made me smile: “However, many of you are flying 12-16 hours to get here and that commitment to come visit isn’t lost on us either.”á

Not lost on you but for many of us Brits who used to come over regularly ( I came at least once a year ) we’ve decided that enough is enough and we are no longer prepared to queue for two hours or more once we get off the plane at Chicago or Atlanta or Washington, as we crawl towards the Immigration desk where we are finger printed and photographed.á

12 hours on a plane, then two hours to pass thru Chicago. Normally you miss your connecting flight to Vegas and then have to kill another 3 or 4 hours before making the next 3 hour leg of the journey.

I tried going direct last time ( not a lot of cheap direct flights for those of us living in the North of England ) and the wait to pass thru Immigration at McCarran was nearly two hours as well. I love Vegas but I just can’t do the immigration- Homeland security bit any more.

Regards,

Dave Kendall

Ted Responds:

I appreciate the note and understand the hassle. We call the TSA here the Transportation Screw-Up Administration. And something should be done to speed up the immigration lines here, especially with the number of international flights.

May I suggest sending the same note you sent me to our local paper as a letter to the editor? They have even an bigger voice than I do (politicians generally don’t read tourism publications like ours, but they read the newspaper). You can even submit it online at
http://www.reviewjournal.com/about/print/press/letterstoeditor.html

In fact, I suggest all of our international readers frustrated about this to spend just a couple of minutes doing so. A barrage of complaints will have to be noticed by our newspaper and it might even create extra coverage (or a feature story) that the politicians can’t ignore.

My husband and I have been coming to Vegas for the past 15 years and if you can believe it our latest trip in April/08 is the first time we have been to Fremont Street and we fell in love with it.

My questions is this-is Fremont Street a safe place to stay for a few days at one of their hotel/casinos? This concern for safety has been the reason we have never ventured downtown before now but we spent 3 days of our trip playing/eating/shopping/enjoying the shows during our latest visit and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Keep up all the wonderful work you all on the newsletter, we look forward to it and have learned so much from it. Thanks so much,

Wayne and Sandy M.
Rochester, NH

Ted Responds:

Downtown is as safe as The Strip provided you stay in the tourism areas. But one should never wander off (on foot) well away from normal tourism areas anywhere unless they specifically know the area. The upside of downtown is the more reasonable priced rooms, food, and entertainment. Also, the casinos are all right next to each other. No long walks when you want to change scenery.

The downside is the bus or cab right to The Strip. What many do is buy an all day pass on The Deuce (bus running from downtown to The Strip every few minutes, 24/7). For those looking at the price of airfare and Strip hotel rooms and cringing but still really wanting to come visit, I suggest this: Stay downtown where you’ll still find the Vegas that everyone used to talk about where prices are much easier on the wallet.

Do you have any insight into valet parking at Las Vegas hotels? Reason, we were in town a week ago and valet parked at every hotel. Our camera and GPS unit were stolen from our car and the only time it was unlocked is when we valet parked.á

We didn’t discover they were missing until a couple of days later when we went to use them and there is no damage on the car. Is this a problem in Las Vegas? Any ideas of what can be done? Any help would be appreciated.

Evelyn Dotson

Ted Responds:

This is the first time we’ve had anyone bring this issue up in the 9 years of the newsletter so it probably isn’t widespread. Valet parkers make really good money and would be stupid to jeopardize it. Also, they have casino surveillance cameras on them pretty much at all times.

However, it is a good reminder for people to check their stuff after they valet. If something is missing, security can roll back all the cameras that your car was on and probably catch who did it. If you know the license plate on the car you were driving, you can write the property and tell them your problem. Don’t delay as I don’t know how long they keep surveillance video.

In the future… for any theft on a casino property (purse/wallet theft or anything): Keep track of your stuff the best you can (so you know when it is missing) and report any theft as soon as possible. Pretty good chance they can roll some video back and try to see who did it. At the very least, they can then keep an eye out for the thief.

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

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

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:

  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

May 28, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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