Category Archives: Las Vegas Newsletter

Access Vegas Insider Vibe March 15, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – If you are reading and just returned from a weekend visit, all I can say is “Uh-Oh”. Weather this past week was absolutely stunning with highs near 80 F, mostly sunny days, and nights that never got way too cold. That is, right up through Friday. Then came Saturday. I’m not sure what happened overnight, but Saturday brought some pretty hard steady rain andádownright cold temps that barely hit the mid-50’s. And to think that just the day before, I’d been kicking back watching TV on the back patio while enjoying dinner and a cocktail. Thankfully, The rain is supposed to be gone by Monday and we’re back into the 70’s where we usually are this time of year.

This kind of hits home on a couple things I regularly remind you about: 1. The temperature here in the desert has some wild swings. Always assume that it could be 10-15 degrees warmer or cooler than average on any given day, and that the weather can vary dramatically from day-to-day. 2. I’ve talked about how everyone’s Vegas experience is unique. Come here on Memorial Day weekend and it is much different than the week before Christmas (both in terms of crowds and temperature). Those who were here midweek last week went home and told all their friends how incredible Vegas weather is in March. Those here this weekend are going to go home and say Never visit Vegas in March… it is cold and stormy!

Viva No Elvis – Cirque du Soleil has announced the replacement for Viva Elvis at Aria in CityCenter. Not wanting to take any risks, they are bringing Zarkana here after hugely successful runs in both Moscow and New York City. The question is whether an already saturated show market (certainly saturated with Cirque shows) can absorb another production and whether CityCenter’s “way back off The Strip” location will be a hindrance to ticket sales.

Harmon Update – The Harmon is the unfinished hotel which is part of the CityCenter project, sitting right next to The Cosmopolitan. Construction defects halted work on the project. The builder says that if it gets torn down, they’ll never be able to absolve themselves from responsibility for the defects. (Any evidence in their favor in a protracted court battle will be gone). Clark County wants it torn down as the defects evidently make it vulnerable to collapse in an earthquake. Next hearing is July 9. I’m guessing we’re going to see it imploded early fall.

New Performing Arts Center – Thanks in part to $105 million in car rental taxes from you guys (funding slightly more than 1/5 of the project), downtown Las Vegas has unveiled the new Smith Performing Arts Center. It certainly is beautiful and the movers and shakers and local press are ga-ga over it. We were the largest city in the U.S. without such dedicated performing arts facility. Boy oh boy, we’re in the big leagues now!

I confess to being just a tad bit snarky because for some reason, the people with the biggest inferiority complex about living in Las Vegas (and the biggest boosters of this project) are the exact people who have done extremely well here. Nobody every stopped them from picking up and moving to San Francisco or New York City. How about you quit being embarrassed of being a Las Vegan?

A very pleasant addition to a city? Absolutely. A stunning venue that is a must-see? The few who have had the opportunity to attend an event there so far have raved about it. An awesome addition to the city and downtown? You bet. But something that changes the way the world sees us (in terms of arts and culture)? Not even close.

Opening night was a star-studded event hosted by Doogie Howser Neil Patrick Harris and featured artists ranging from Willie Nelson to Joshua Bell to Jennifer Hudson (just to name a few of many). It was filmed for TV and is slated to appear on PBS (date not yet set, we’ll let you know).

For those wondering which two Fremont Street hotels this venue sits between? It doesn’t. It is on the west side of the railroad tracks in the vicinity of the outlet mall, World Market Center, etc. At just about a mile from the Fremont Street hotel area by car or foot, I wouldn’t suggest the walk (especially if you are dressed up to see a performance) because parts of downtown are still pretty sketchy. But you are talking a cheap cab ride from Fremont Street and probably about $15 from The Strip.

Talk is underway of walkways to connect the new Smith Center to the tourist part of downtown. As the crow flies, you’re only talking four blocks. I’ve expressed concerns that attendees to events won’t contribute to the downtown economy. Having to park downtown, eat, drive or cab to the venue, then back around again to downtown for after show drinks just makes no sense. Walkways over the railroad tracks need to be expedited. Once in place, a walk from Fremont East all the way to the Smith Center will be a very manageable and enjoyable 10 blocks.

We’ll list performances for this venue in our Entertainment Calendar just as we do other concerts and headliners. Free walking tours of the venue are available at www.thesmithcenter.com/explore/tours

What Is This Mess? – The opening salvo on the construction of Project Linq. To those familiar with Harrah’s, Carnival Court is on the left. Remember the ice cream store next to Carnival Court at the end of the mall-like walkway? Gone. You’re looking straight through to one of the Imperial Palace towers. To the right is what used to be stores lining the walkway from Imperial Palace to Carnival Court.

Playboy Club Closing – It appears that the Playboy Club at The Palms is closing. Very strange indeed as it was deemed a great fit for Las Vegas and was the 35’th highest revenue generating dayclub/nightclub in the United States in 2010. With founder George Maloof no longer having the level of ownership in the hotel which he used to, one has to wonder if this is a “bean counter” move. The hotel may be getting out of a revenue sharing deal for use of the iconic brand. But without the Playboy name, will the club perform as well?

Just Call Us Tournament Town – With the announcement of the PAC-12 moving their basketball tournament to Las Vegas next year, that brings the total number of tournaments we host to four. Unheard of for any other city. Besides the PAC-12, we also host the Mountain West Conference, West Coast Conference, and Western Athletic Conference tournaments. (OK, the last three aren’t the Big-10 or SEC, but still…). This occurs right around the same time we host NASCAR and just prior to March Madness making March one of the most chronically busy times of the year here. The PAC-12 event will take place at the MGM Grand Garden arena.

Fitz Becomes The D – This past week, Fitzgerald’s downtown renamed itself “The D” (which stands for downtown and is also an homage to the city of Detroit, where the brothers that own the place come from). Pretty much everything that we’ve reported on here since late November is now official and underway. Downstairs, expect a Golden Gate (casino) style party vibe including an outdoor bar with go-go dancers and dancing dealers inside. (The D is owned by the same guys who own Golden Gate). If thump-thump music isn’t your thing, the upstairs casino will be retro-Vegas (including some popular vintage slots from decades gone by) and be more of a tame experience.

They are going to remodel all the rooms, working two floors at a time. Although the tallest building in downtown Las Vegas, only a handful of the rooms at the south end feature a view of the Las Vegas Strip. (Might not hurt to see if you can ask for one upon check-in). An new one-way escalator will go from Fremont Street up to the second floor casino. They are also claiming that they’ll have the fastest wi-fi of any Las Vegas hotel. Of course, given how poor the wi-fi in many hotels can be (which is insulting because you are paying for it either as a separate fee or as part of a resort fee), that shouldn’t be hard to pull off.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

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Payard Patisserie And Bistro At Caesars Palace Swings Into Spring With Fashionable Chocolate Decorated Easter Eggs – This spring, Payard Patisserie & Bistro brings the finest in French design to Caesars Palace with intricately adorned chocolate pastries. The confectionary is adding to the chocolate shopÆs imaginative, effervescent atmosphere, setting new trends this season with decadent Easter-themed pastries and chocolates. Beginning March 15, the pastry shop will present an assorted collection of chocolate Easter eggs and bunnies. As shown in the photos above and attached, specially featured will be the new cheeta and zebra-themed eggs offered for the first time this year, and the chocolate print eggs returning from their debut last year, among several other variations. Made with 72 percent dark chocolate and the rest milk and white chocolate, the eggs are created with a customized mold and painted with assorted patterns. Recipients who break open the eggs will be awarded with additional Easter goodies located inside each egg, including miniature chocolate and candied eggs.

The Smith Center For The Performing Arts Opens In Las Vegas With Star-Studded Concert – History Making Night Featured Award-Winning Musicians And BroadwayÆs Best – An extraordinary line-up of performers from across the arts community ushered in a new era of culture as they graced the stage for the opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas on March 10. Led by quintessential host and award-winning actor, Neil Patrick Harris, the evening featured performances by the whoÆs who of music and BroadwayÆs brightest stars.

Frank Marino Unveils First Ever ‘Divas Las Vegas’ Gaming Table At Imperial Palace – March marked another first for Frank Marino, Las VegasÆ longest-running headliner. The superstar female impersonator has two stars on the Las Vegas Walk of Fame, a street named in his honor, his own official day (February 1), a key to the city and his own building wrap on the famed Las Vegas Strip. The only thing missing was his own branded gaming table û until now. Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino recently welcomed to its gaming floor the first-ever Frank Marino and ‘Divas Las Vegas’-themed gaming table. The game puts a new spin on the typical betting wheel. Instead of betting on numbers, guests now have the opportunity to bet on impersonators from the show, including Cher, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Diana Ross, Liza Minnelli, Janet Jackson and, of course, Marino.

$200,000 Superstar Bingo Extravaganza Returns to Riviera – The Riviera Hotel & Casino, home to the only bingo room on the Las Vegas Strip, brings back its $200,000 Superstar Bingo Extravaganza on Mar. 28 and 29. There will be 20 games played per day on both days with a minimum payout per game of $3,000 plus a $25,000 Superstar Coverall at the end of both sessions. Check-in and registration begins on Mar. 27.

Aria’s March Menus Make Springtime In LV Even Better – This month only, ARIA Resort & Casino is serving up Signature Tasting Menus highlighting fresh ingredients, just in time for spring. Whether youÆre lounging by the pool, catching some March Madness, or hitting the links at a local golf course û whatever March means to you û round out your day with out-of-this world cuisine at AMERICAN FISH by Michael Mina, Jean Georges Steakhouse and Sirio Ristorante.

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

Click To Book Grand Canyon Air Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We’re closing in on the debut of AccessVegas.com 5.0 (hey, we’ve been around since 1997) and due to those time constraints we’re not running readers letters this week. Members Mania is a popular feature which unfortunatelyáwill be sporadic until our site upgrades are finished.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe March 7, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Need to contact us? Send feedback to AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – I usually keep you updated on our weather, and this week will be no different. However, I’d be remiss if I didn’t send out thoughts out to those affected by the severe weather we had here in the United States about a week ago. It hit somewhat close to home for us because team member Robert Oliver (IT, software development, our pending design upgrade) only lives about an hour from the town of Harvest, AL which got ravished. As it was, Robert and his girlfriend Marsha were forced into their basement at one point and funnel clouds were seen over their area.

This past week on Tuesday (March 6), we ourselves had an unusual weather blip. Monday was beautiful, temps in the 70’s F. People on The Strip at midnight in short sleeves, short skirts, just really pleasant. Tuesday, we had serious and unrelenting wind with gusts approaching 50 mph. That is pushing into the Tropical Storm force category (if we weren’t land-locked). The storm brought some serious cold into our area for Wednesday. Temps didn’t make it out of the 50’s. The good news? 10 day forecast is showing 70’s all this week with some cooling over the weekend.

O’Shea’s Closure – As part of the Project Linq massive makeover of the Imperial Palace and (what is currently) the alley way between O’Shea’s and Harrah’s, the popular little “dive” casino O’Sheas will shut the doors for the last time on April 30, 2012. Some rumble has been made regarding the re-creation of O’Shea’s as part of the revamped Imperial Palace (which itself will get renamed), but that will be like trying to catch lightning in a bottle. O’Shea’s unique atmosphere has made it quite a success.

Just last week on an otherwise slow Monday night (for Las Vegas), O’Shea’s was packed. Every table was open, and most of them were full. The beer pong area was full. The lounge was full. The place had an energy not matched at surrounding casinos. But then again, the planners who plan great projects like Linq are probably in bed with milk and cookies during what is peak time for visitors who are partying and gambling at places like O’Shea’s. So, maybe they have no clue. Or maybe it has to go, but killing a cash cow to make room for an outdoor mall is risky in my book.

First look at Longbar at Fitzgerald's LongBar At The Fitz – Fitzgerald’s hotel in downtown (soon to be The D if internet rumor holds up) is wasting absolutely no time with their remodel. Just a few weeks ago, they ripped out their old downstairs bar and presto/chango, a new really long bar (hence the name Longbar) is in place along the west wall (the McDonald’s side). Click the thumbnail to see the full-size picture.

Smoke Free Resort – Just not here. To follow up on a story we noted in June 2011, Revel in Atlantic City opens in April with an entirely smoke-free atmosphere including the entire casino. Interestingly enough, a law banning smoking in Atlantic City casinos was later modified due to loss of gaming revenue. Smokers gamble. On the flip side, around 3/4 of the U.S. population does not smoke. All eyes will be watching to see what the results will be.

The Nevada Recovery – Taxable sales for Clark County (Las Vegas) NV are showing a few key significant jumps: Furniture and home furnishings (obviously mostly locals) up 15%, clothing and accessories (mix of locals and visitors) up nearly 15%, and accommodations (visitors) up over 12%. Construction continues to be the sore spot, down nearly 16%. Don’t expect that number to change anytime soon. With years worth of residential and commercial real estate inventory available and no new resort construction, the demand simply isn’t there.

Top 10 Value Hotel – Travel+Leisure Magazine has ranked Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa as the 10’th best overall hotel value. In the world! GVR isn’t for everyone, if simply because you are 11 miles from The Strip. They have a free shuttle to Mandalay Bay, but last departure is 8 PM. (They want to get you and your money back on their property).

Still, if you are doing a week or more here in town, you might want to look into spending a couple of days there. Especially in months where the weather is nicer. You can enjoy their beautiful outdoor pool and grounds plus the adjacent The District for all kinds of dining, drinking, and shopping.

Flavor Flav’s House Of Flavor – After unfounded rumors of opening a restaurant in The Riviera and an apparently failed version in Iowa, Las Vegas local (and a former neighbor of mine, we sorted junk mail next to each other once) Flavor Flav is opening and chicken and waffle house. But, not on The Strip. Instead in a strip mall at Desert Inn and Maryland. I like chicken and waffles, so we may just have to get over and check it out. However, probably not worth the cab ride if you are just visiting.

Asian Resort Planned – The beleaguered area of Sahara and The Strip (Sahara closing, Ivana Trump hotel never happening, MGM’s “CityCenter North” on permanent hold) may see a niche resort coming soon. The empty lot next to Allure (the condo high-rise at the intersection) is slated to be the future home of the Lucky Dragon, a 10 floor resort which plans to market both to the booming local Asian market and Asians who actually live in Asia (and are generally the very wealthy who can afford to visit Las Vegas and drop large sums of money).

The developers feel that the location won’t be a hindrance as this will be a “destination” resort which their clients will actively seek out. Also, Palace Station (literally a few blocks to the west) heavily caters to the local Asian market and I’m guessing the new property will be looking to steal some of those customers.

We Can’t Help You If… – We certainly enjoy your feedback at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com and we strive to answer as many questions as possible. But please understand we pack this newsletter with info and links each week. Make sure to at least scan it all, including the More section which has lots of links to all kinds of useful information. If you don’t click to read all the info we’re digging up and linking to, there isn’t much we can do about that.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Chateau Terrace To Host Celebration – Celebrate St. PatrickÆs Day With The Best View On The Strip – Chateau Terrace at Paris Las Vegas will host an all-day St. PatrickÆs Day party on Saturday, March 17. Themed with Irish flair, the lavish nightclubÆs outdoor Terrace will open its doors starting at 9 a.m. for food, green beer, music and plenty of Irish-go-lucky fun. The stunning terrace will serve up dozens of varieties of beer, including KillianÆs Irish Red and Guinness from Ireland. And, as no St. PatrickÆs Day party would be complete without green beer, the Chateau Terrace will serve up pints and pitchers of the shamrock-hued brew. With unparalleled views of the Las Vegas Strip overlooking the fountains at Bellagio, Chateau Terrace will celebrate the day party where gorgeous servers and a DJ will keep the festivities going well into the night.

‘The Last Supperette’ Serves Up The Ultimate Ladies Night Out This Spring – Asian Bistro To Offer Brides Last ‘Single’ Meal – To celebrate the brideÆs unforgettable last night of freedom, Rice & Company offers ”The Last Supperette,” a four-course prix fixe menu priced at $50 per person at Luxor Hotel and Casino. For the bachelorette dining experience, ladies begin their meal with the ”Prenuptials” course and choose between The Sexy Lady Roll made with king crab, seaweed salad and spicy tuna or the Vegetable Spring Roll made with tangy sweet and sour sauce. For ”The Second Date” course ladies will indulge in a have the option of Mixed House Seasonal Greens with a savory signature ginger dressing or Egg Drop Soup made with vegetables and scallions.

Rhumbar Celebrates Spring Break On The Patio – Additional Happy Hour Specials Available Throughout March – Spring is right around the corner and RHUMBAR at The Mirage is gearing up for party-goers as they create the best place to catch the warm breeze with unbeatable drink specials. For the month of March, Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., spring breakers can experience the Caribbean-themed patio at RHUMBAR as it turns regular happy hour into the top party spot in town. All vacationers can spend their week of freedom indulging in affordable $5 cocktails including Rum Punch, Coors Light and vodka mixed drinks. Buckets of domestic beer also will be available for $25. The daiquiri bar will feature free refills of tasty libations and RHUMBAR will offer a house selection cigar for $8 to complete the Caribbean-themed spring break party.

Flamingo Announces Plans To Open The First West Coast CarlosÆn CharlieÆs – Popular Mexican Cantina Set To Open April 2012 – Flamingo Las Vegas is pleased to announce plans to open the first West Coast location of the high-energy Mexican eatery CarlosÆn CharlieÆs. The restaurant and bar will make its debut this April. Located adjacent to the Race & Sports Book, CarlosÆn CharlieÆs will span more than 13,000 square feet serving lunch and dinner nightly. The dining room will boast seating for 150, and a unique outdoor terrace will overlook the lush Flamingo pool and gardens complete with oversized umbrellas and cooling misters, accommodating an additional 150. The large bar will seat up to 40 guests bringing the venueÆs full seating capacity to 340, with additional space for gathering and dancing.

Revelers Will See Green At PBR Rock Bar And GrillÆs St. PatrickÆs Day Party – The luckiest place to party for everyoneÆs favorite Irish drinking holiday will be PBR Rock Bar & Grill inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Saturday, March 17. Revelers will be seeing green as the popular rock bar will serve up traditional favorites in the holidayÆs signature hue including green beer, green margaritas and green daiquiris. Drink selections will be offered in 80-ounce Green Guitars and 100-ounce Super Yards for $38 each. Partygoers can relish the Strip-side eateryÆs daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. with unrivaled drink specials including 2-for-1 well drinks, $3 domestic drafts and $5 Jack DanielÆs Tennessee Whiskey shots and Jager Bombs.

Experience Basketball Mania with Special Appearances, Events, and VIP Viewing Packages throughout Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas Resorts – With the college basketball tournament right around the corner, locals and guests alike are invited to take part in various activities being offered at Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas resorts March 15-18. Whether a guest is a casual sports follower or a die-hard college basketball fan, Caesars Entertainment has the perfect offerings to make sure the weekend is a slam dunk experience. Sports fans have the opportunity to catch all the action with the ultimate Man Cave Package available at Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and Imperial Palace.

Two Days Of Free, Open-To-The-Public Concerts To Be Held During ACM Weekend On Fremont Street Experience Friday, March 30 & Saturday, March 31, 2012 – The Academy of Country Music is hosting two days of all-star concerts at Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas during The Week Vegas Goes Country«! The weekend-long party leading up to the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will be hosted by three-time ACM On-Air Personality of the Year Award winner Blair Garner, host of After MidNite with Blair Garner, and will feature performances by ACM New Artist of the Year nominees Brantley Gilbert, Hunter Hayes and Scotty McCreery as well as Love and Theft and headliner Luke Bryan on Friday, March 30th, and Laura Bell Bundy, Craig Campbell, Eli Young Band, Jana Kramer, and headliner Eric Church on Saturday, March 31st.

The Golden Nugget Las Vegas Named Official Host Hotel For Legendary General Tire Mint 400 – The world-renowned General Tire Mint 400 has selected the Golden Nugget Las Vegas as the ”Official Host Hotel” for the 2012 race. With over 270 pre-entries already counted, the top off-road teams in the world will compete in over twenty different classes of race vehicles at this year’s Mint 400, which will take place the week of March 21 and continue until March 25, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Grand Canyon Landing TourGrand Canyon Landing Tour û You will start your experience with a breathtaking flight over Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano, as well as many other awe-inspiring views. After descending 3,500 feet inside the Grand Canyon on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, you will enjoy a light snack, a cool beverage and a champagne toast 300 feet above the Colorado River.

Click To Book Grand Canyon Landing Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My wife and I were in Las Vegas mid January, visiting from the UK. I just wanted to comment on a few things if I may:

We were not disappointed with the visit, as usual we enjoyed ourselves immensely, and the weather was great. We celebrated our wedding anniversary and my wife bought us tickets to see Celine Dion, which was a great show.

I am sure I had read prior to leaving the UK, that the ‘Porn Slappers’ were not supposed to be so in your face very 5 feet along the sidewalk. That had been something I was keen to see, but was very disappointed to see that this was still as prevalent as ever, and quite annoying. Although I would not be a customer, I do wonder how much the fees go up, to be able to give some money to this endless number of South American people pushing to handout the fliers?

A comment on the new hotels Cosmopolitan etc. I have to say that until now Las Vegas is best when copying themes from around the world, when constructing hotels or just trying to make them unique. Yet this collection of hotels is something which does not do credit to Las Vegas, as they are just plain modern hotels and to our mind are nothing different from anywhere else in the world. In fact they are boring.

Night time entertainment – Celine Dion show was just that, well put together and very enjoyable. One Las Vegas theatres do well, is put on something large in a lovely theatre. And the way the crowds disappear so quick on leaving the show is amazing. We did see the Absinthe show as well, and have to say that we were not warned before hand how dreadful some of the antics were in-between the main acrobatic acts. We are not aversed to good banter, but this really was way beyond that. I am disappointed that there was not some suggested warning to potential customers when buying tickets. The acrobatics were really very good however and in tent surroundings was a nice change.

All in all another lovely time, and we will still be back, but avoid the dreary outright modern hotels.

Enjoying the news updates, oh, and one last thing. What is the position with the area between Circus Circus and Trump tower?

Regards,

Alan Pardoe

 

Ted Responds:

Glad to hear you had a great trip, nothing like celebrating your anniversary in Las Vegas! You were lucky to catch Celine as she had to cancel current shows to let her voice rest and get over a throat-related ailment. We’re hoping she’ll be in top shape to return in July when her next set of shows is scheduled.

The pornslappers are not supposed to shove the cards at your face anymore. Or hand them to anyone who looks less than 25 years old. However, the new agreements they have with law enforcement do not make them go away. My advice? Just ignore them. That’s what I do. Per how they get paid: Every card has a code on it particular to the person handing them out. If their card results in a “sale” then they get a commission. I’m not aware of the exact dollar amount nor what it costs to have a “friendly” encounter with the girl they send to your room.

It has been suggested to use immigration policy to thin their ranks. However, you can’t just stop someone and ask for their identification without cause in the United States. Given that nearly 25% of all Nevada residents are Hispanic combined with others in favor of amnesty for illegal aliens, you’d have an uproar on your hands. Similar to the ongoing battle in the Phoenix, Arizona area where the “tough” sheriff is under fire for allegedly doing just that.

I believe you are referring to the CityCenter complex, of which Cosmo appears to be a part of. (In actuality, it is a separately owned property). You are not the first, nor will be the last to express displeasure with the way it looks on The Strip. In a Las Vegas skyline filled with whites and tans and shades of gold and brown, the blue certainly stands out.

For some reason, there has been a push to de-theme Las Vegas hotels. The Luxor (for example) is nothing like the Egyptian-themed property it was at opening, the Aladdin theme (and name) is gone, CityCenter has no theme (it has an urban feel, but I’m not sure that translates into a theme — the nearest grocery store is 2.5 miles away), and the proposed remodel of The Sahara into something else will certainly de-theme it. I could go on. Simply put, many visitors are not happy about this development.

When we brought Absinthe on board as an advertiser, we did note that it wasn’t for those with tame ears. The show gets on the profane side. Some love how over-the-top it is, for others it is a bit too much. So be warned!

The Echelon project between Circus and Trump is still dead in the water. I panned the concept when it was announced. I didn’t believe the market could absorb all of the resort complexes under construction even in good times. I’m sure that Echelon owners Boyd Gaming are kicking themselves for blowing up The Stardust. Highly unlikely we’ll see any action there for another 2-3 years as so much other development has to shake out first.

You have the Downtown Grand (formerly Lady Luck) working on re-opening, which will add rooms to the market. Ditto if The Sahara remodels. Another downtown hotel may be getting ready to re-open their rooms (I’ve seen the room designs, but I’m not supposed to talk about it). Until all those rooms come online (which I believe they will but it could be quite some time), new construction is simply out-of-the-question.

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

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

More St. Patrick’s Day Las Vegas News And Events

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe February 29, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Send feedback to AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’m going to be MIA (from the newsletter) this week as we’re in the thick up prepping the major upgrades to AccessVegas.com. I will be off-and-on for the next couple months. However, I should return next issue with my insider insights. And as always, we still have a newsletter packed with the Las Vegas information you need to know!

Plus, we’re going to do right by you. We’re proud to have Jersey Boys back on board as an advertiser. With their move to Paris Las Vegas, they’ve cooked up something special just for us: Right now, you can book Jersey Boys Las Vegas tickets and save $40 per ticket. But, you have to do it through us. This is for our readers and their friends and family and associates.

How to book with the discount: Head on over to

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When you go to book, enter the code 40ACCESS when prompted in the purchase process. You’re good to go, with some extra gambling money in your pocket courtesy of us and Jersey Boys!

If you want to share this with others via email, simply send them to this newsletter page or send them the easy link http://x.co/hY8A so they can save. If you participate in any online forums, travel discussion, travel ratings sites (TripAdvisor, etc), you can also use the URL (link) to share this information with them.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

The Rat Pack is Back! Steps into KISS Boots for Original Rat Packer û Joey BishopÆs 94th Birthday! – Photo Cut Line: In commemoration of Joey BishopÆs birthday, The Rat Pack is Back! brings a touch of nostalgia to the official KISS boots that are currently touring Las Vegas in celebration of the upcoming opening of KISS by Monster Mini Golf on March 15, 2012. Photo ® Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ erikkabik.com. The Rat Pack is Back! paired their signature coiffed look with KISSÆ signature striking boots to celebrate the 94th birthday of famous Rat Packer, Joey Bishop.

Comme Ca Introduces New Spring Items To Seasonal Menu – As the spring season evokes ideas of renewal, so does Comme ÃaÆs new seasonal menu created by acclaimed Chef David Myers and Executive Chef Brian Howard. This spring, the celebrated French brasserie at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will roll out a new menu that incorporates the freshest ingredients of the season with new culinary concepts. New hors dÆoeuvres introduced to the menu include a delicate Crab Salad made with preserved lemon, espelette, garlic chips and locally grown mustard greens; as well as Grilled Octopus garnished with charred spring onion and a warm chili vinaigrette.

NASCAR Fans Get Fired-Up As SamÆs Town 300 Returns To Las Vegas March 8-10 – Boyd Gaming Kicks Off NASCAR Weekend With Appearances By Nationwide And Sprint Cup Drivers – NASCAR Weekend is one of the most anticipated events on the Las Vegas calendar, and Boyd Gaming Corporation is once again revving up for the 15th annual SamÆs Town 300 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Ahead of the March 10 race, Boyd Gaming properties will be offering a variety of unique experiences designed to appeal to NASCAR fans of all ages. On Thursday, March 8, fans are invited to several free events with exclusive chances to get up close and personal with five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, and third-generation NASCAR driver and champion Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Celebrity Colorist Michael Boychuck Introduces Happy Hour At Color Salon – Guests Can Enjoy æMakeup And MimosasÆ From 2 To 4 P.M. Daily – Leading Las Vegas salon owner, Michael Boychuck, proves that happy hour specials are not only good for the best drink deals in Sin City with the launch of æMakeup and MimosasÆ at his acclaimed salon, COLOR – a Salon by Michael Boychuck at Caesars Palace. The full-service salon now offers a daily happy hour special from 2 to 4 p.m. Clients may bask in the most opulent salon experience as they get pampered by the cityÆs most elite beauty professionals. Guest may also indulge in complimentary mimosas provided by the salon during their services.

American Burger Works Delivers The Ultimate Hamburger Joint At Excalibur – ABXÆs (American Burger Works) juicy burgers and authentic, crispy Belgium French fries will be served with a delicious complement: 15 flavorful dipping sauces. Some innovative favorites include bacon-mustard, cheddar cheese, chili-cilantro sour cream and Jack DanielÆs ketchup. Hot and spicy aficionados will love the horseradish cocktail sauce and spicy Sriracha ketchup. The sauces transform classic items with sophisticated flavors that will keep guests coming back for more. ”ItÆs all about the sauce,” added Michael Frey, managing partner at Drive This! Entertainment. ”The sauces create 15 different tastes and flavor profiles so that guests can really make their burger and fries their own.”

Lupo By Wolfgang Puck Invites Guests To Discover Italy With Executive Chef Eduardo Perez – New Prix-Fixe Menu Rich In Italian Tradition – Lupo by Wolfgang Puck has introduced a new five-course, prix-fixe menu inspired by Chef Eduardo PerezÆ recent trips to Italy. The ”Discover Italy” dinner menu is priced at $60 per person (excluding beverage, tax and gratuity) and features authentic Italian flavors and ingredients. During his annual culinary explorations through the country, Chef Perez researched and developed new dishes by studying the culture, food and cooking techniques of celebrated Italian chefs in world-renowned restaurants. These chefs include Michelin-starred Chef Gaetano Trovato of ”Arnolfo” in Tuscany, Chef Maurilio Garola of ”La Ciau del Tornavento” near Alba and Chef Gian Nicola Colucci at ”Hotel Danieli” in Venice.

Bellagio Gallery Of Fine Art Presents ”Claude Monet: Impressions Of Light” – New Exhibition Showcases 28 Works From The Museum Of Fine Arts, Boston – Organized in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), this landmark exhibition will feature works that illustrate the height of Claude MonetÆs engagement with color and light. BGFA showcases 20 pieces by Monet, the founder of French Impressionist painting, accompanied by eight additional canvases by the masterÆs predecessors and contemporaries. All of these works are drawn from the MFA, which holds one of the largest collections of paintings by Claude Monet outside of Paris.

Wind Dancer Sunset Landing TourWind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour û Landing tour with Hors d’oeuvres on the Canyon Floor. Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Descend deep into the Grand Canyon and land on the Hualapai Indian territory on the canyon floor

Click To Book Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Members Mania returns next issue.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe February 22, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

 

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – We’ve already been teased with days into the 70’s F even though the first day of the year averaging 70 isn’t until March 13. Still, I’ve got the weed-n-feed on the lawn and am getting ready to wash down the patio furniture and dust off the outdoor TV. Nice to have outdoor living back, which means more outdoor dining and drinking opportunities for you when you visit!

MIA – We’ve had a little bit of a gap since our last issue. We appreciate those who were concerned that they missed an issue. Nothing doing. We simply had to devote more time to the pending upgrades and re-launch of our flagship AccessVegas.com.

We were one of a handful of Las Vegas information sites launching in the 90’s and since then, everybody and their brother-in-law has started some kind of Vegas site. Plus, some of the national travel sites have launched extensive Vegas sections (some better than others… some of the advice I see these sites and that their readers give to each other makes me roll my eyes). We’re working on not only keeping up with everyone else, but creating some special new user experiences for Vegas lovers only. More on that as it develops.

In the meantime, you can always check AccessVegas.com every couple of days to see what has been added to our What’s Hot section or simply follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/AccessVegas for the latest even when the newsletter isn’t published!

Southwest and AirTran and Vegas – The merger between Southwest and AirTran should only stand to benefit many of you looking to fly here on the cheap (or as cheap as airfare isn’t these days) and creating more non-stop flights to Las Vegas. (Here’s a little airline lingo for you: “Non-stop” means the plane does not touch the ground between cities. “Direct” means that the plane you are on may make one or more stops between destinations, but the same plane goes through and you don’t have to change flights). Vegas Inc. reporter Rick Velotta did a nice article called Southwest-AirTran merger looking like a blessing for Las Vegans for those of you who are further interested in what the merger means to those traveling to or from Las Vegas. Unfortunately…

Don’t Blame Vegas For High Airfare – Rising oil prices are going to be driving up the cost of your airline ticket. In fact, I’d look at future travel dates NOW and if airfare is still pretty much in line with what you’ve been paying, book a trip before airfare possibly goes through the roof. We were looking at a possible record number of visitors this year, but a long-term spike in oil prices could put the damper on that.

Whenever airfare goes up, we get emails saying “Las Vegas should do something so we can get there more affordably”. Look… Las Vegas doesn’t control the price of oil. The world market does. I’m not going to get into the “drill baby, drill” vs. “let’s all go green” political arguments. But right now, airplanes run on oil. Higher oil prices = higher airfare. Contact your political leaders, not us!

One thing that DOES happen during high oil prices is that demand for hotel rooms here softens as people skip trips due to the airfare cost. Which is foolish because in reality, the extra money you pay to fly or drive here is offset by less expensive rooms.

As for the “good old days” of Las Vegas junkets where a hotel would pick up your room and airfare as long as you stepped on the plane with X amount of cash, those are gone forever. People don’t gamble like they used to, and nothing is going to stop you from spending your cash somewhere else away from the hotel that brought you to town.

High Roller vs. SkyVue – We’ve told you about Project Linq, the new outdoor dining and shopping area going in between the Imperial Palace and Flamingo. It is to be anchored by a London Eye type of observation wheel called the High Roller (which was also the name of the former roller coaster atop The Stratosphere). Not so much in the spotlight has been a competing observation wheel called SkyVue, slated to go in across the street from Mandalay Bay. This project has pretty much been scoffed at, especially with Linq moving forward. Lo and behold, the “arms race” for observation wheels in Las Vegas has heated up and SkyVue starts pouring concrete on March 1 with a slated opening of July 4, 2013.

I speculated to friends that Ceasars Entertainment (CET – the people doing Linq) had perhaps stepped up their plans in light of the pending competition. I figured that Linq and High Roller wouldn’t be built until CET got the possible public financing for the arena they want to stick behind The Flamingo. I guessed that SkyVue would back down and go away. If construction really moves forward on SkyVue, it will be interesting to see if Linq gets built with or without an observation wheel. I seriously don’t think our area can handle two of them. Not at the prices needed to charge each rider to monetize it.

Speaking of, SkyVue is going to have a huge (and I mean mind-blowingly gigantic) LED display area on each side that will light up the night sky with advertisements. Now, I’m a capitalist. Advertising pays for stuff. I get it. But we’re talking what will likely be the worlds biggest LED billboard, impacting the views from probably upwards of 10,000 rooms. I am clueless as to what our county commissioners were thinking when they approved that.

Everybody Loves A Parade – Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday came and went. I applaud Caesars Entertainment (all of their hotels) and a handful of bars/lounges for providing events and drink specials. However, I was hoping for more.áI’m still at a loss as to why this pre-Lent season isn’t given a bigger push here in Las Vegas. (Not everyone can make it to New Orleans with the crowds and high hotel prices during the event, but Las Vegas is an obtainable and cost effective trip for many).

With good promotion and a parade down The Strip, we could really make a splash. In these days of social networking and viral videos, word would quickly spread and the event would grow year after year. We’d also be filling up the town during the down time between major January conventions and March Madness.

Read About It Here First – I’ve been telling you that downtown Las Vegas has been slowly heating up for a number of years now (as a place to live, work, and recreate — not just a place for visitors to gamble) and aárecent newspaper article Assets to Las Vegas’ growth: Casinos, e-tailers really confirmed and compounded on everything I’ve been saying. They quoted an actual “expert” (from out-of-town — go figure on that one) who feels that big things are coming for downtown. Ya’ think?!?

My dilemma? After renting the past few years and trying out a few different parts of town (far South “Strip” down by the South Point and close in West Sahara after stints near Hacienda/Eastern and Sunrise Mountain before that), I’m looking to buy a home in a few months. I just can’t make up my mind where. Downtown, very tempting. UNLV, very tempting. Scotch 80’s (close in between Charleston and Sahara, home to people like Mayors Goodman), very tempting. I do plan to detail the house hunt once underway.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Help Out By Dining Out û Three SquareÆs Spring Edition Of Las Vegas Restaurant Week February 27-March 4, 2012 – Las Vegas Restaurant Week returns û February 27 through March 4, 2012 û the first ever spring edition of the popular culinary event. Locals and tourists have the unique opportunity to dine at many of the cityÆs best restaurants at affordable prix fixe prices while helping to support Three Square Food Bank. Taking part in Las Vegas Restaurant Week is simple. Diners can visit any participating restaurant during the specified dates and enjoy a multi-course, prix fixe menu specially created for Las Vegas Restaurant Week. Each restaurant will create their own delicious menu offering at one of the following price points: $20.12, $30.12 or $50.12, with a fixed portion of the proceeds benefiting Three Square and the fight against hunger in Southern Nevada.

Tacos and Tequila Participates In 2012 Spring Restaurant Week To Benefit Three Square Food Bank – Tacos and Tequila (T&T) will welcome Spring Las Vegas Restaurant Week Monday, February 27 through Sunday, March 4 at Luxor Hotel and Casino. The week will showcase culinary creations that include delectable menus to help benefit Three Square Food Bank. T&T will offer two delicious menus to raise money for the worthy cause.

A Look Back: Studio 54 At MGM Grand Leaves Las Vegas With Legendary Memories – After more than 14 remarkable years on the Las Vegas Strip, Studio 54 at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino will closed its doors Sunday, Feb. 5. Studio 54 opened as the first megaclub in Las Vegas in 1997 and launched the nightlife trend that still reigns supreme today. A favorite among celebrities, Studio 54 pays tribute to its New York City namesake with original memorabilia and an atmosphere unlike any other on The Strip.

Rhumbar Celebrates Leap Year With Patio Party – Enjoy The Extra Day Of February – Every four years the month of February is allotted an extra day to make up for the time it takes the Earth to travel around the Sun. However, RHUMBAR inside The Mirage believes this extra day is granted for people across the globe to celebrate having an additional day of fun. Wednesday, Feb. 29, the stylish cocktail lounge will offer leap year-inspired drink specials, all in honor of 2012Æs additional day.

Stripsteak At Mandalay Bay Presents Intimate Scotch Dinner Thursday, March 1 – STRIPSTEAK a Michael Mina Restaurant at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino presents an intimate Scotch Dinner Thursday, March 1 at 6 p.m. The exclusive event will feature a special five-course menu with a Glenfiddich Scotch pairing. The dinner will begin with Hudson Valley Foie Gras Mousse and progress to dishes such as Smoked Duck Spring Rolls and Braised Kobe Short Ribs. Whether guests are new to the spirit or loyal Scotch drinkers, the evening will be unforgettable. Along with the incredible menu, Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador Mitch Bechard will educate guests on the intricacies of Scotch and its versatility as a pairing.

Maverick Helicopter Wind Dancer Air and Landing TourMaverick Helicopter Wind Dancer Air and Landing Tour û Landing tour with a Continental breakfast or Hors d’oeuvres on the Canyon Floor. Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way.

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I really enjoy receiving your newsletter. It is really thorough in covering everything of interest in Las Vegas. My wife and I live in Texas and we have been visiting Las Vegas at least once a year for many, many years.

A question for you and perhaps of interest to your readers. I seem to remember something about the old Post Office downtown being scheduled for a remake into the “Gangsters Museum”. I thought it was going to open last summer but haven’t heard another word about it. Watching one of the CSI Las Vegas shows on TV, I saw an episode that was supposedly filmed at the museum. Was I dreaming? Are there plans to open such a place. Thanks for your help.

Donald from Rockwall, Texas

 

Ted Responds:

There is a mob museum downtown which has just opened. There is a “Mob Experience” at The Tropicana which is unrelated and had some rough spots and is under new ownership. We certainly understand the confusion. We’ve kept up on both in stories linked in our “More” area (lots of good stuff ends up linked in “More”) and have a special section this week that should give you plenty to read up on.

The Mob Museum is downtown next to Lady Luck (which is under remodel and will be called the Downtown Grand). Admission is $18 and it is a true museum with three floors of exhibits. We’ll be sending someone to do a write up on it soon. As with any new attraction, we like to give them a little time to get the bugs out.

Thanks for reading and telling your friends!

I always look forward to reading your publication. Vegas is my favorite place to go ( we go every May). We can’t wait to go again. I am 53 now, and cannot believe we waited until we were in our 40’s to start going. Best place on earth to go. Much of this is due to your newsletter. So many excellent tips on where to go and things to see. Thanks for everything.

Maybe we can have a beer together sometime.

Bob

 

Ted Responds:

Never too late to discover Las Vegas. I’ve heard from readers in their 80’s who are still coming and plan to do so for as long as they are able! May is very possibly the best month of the year to come. Highs are just shy of 90, lows in the mid-60’s (never too hot, never too cold), the pools are in full swing, and fun is in the air.

I’m flattered to often receive invites to grab a drink from readers, and I’m hoping that perhaps later this year I’ll be able to actually start to schedule something like a bi-weekly gathering of any readers who happen to be in town. With our huge pending upgrades (complete site makeover, 100+ pages of new content, membership area with new features, etc), I’ll actually have to scrape together time to get out the next few months.

But it is always great to meet people and talk Vegas!

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

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

The Las Vegas Mob Museum

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe February 8, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com. Not a subscriber? visit our Newsletter Site.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Coming Events Listings û WeÆve created a new site just for listing specific events at events.accessvegas.com. WeÆll always be adding to it and linking the events in each newsletter:

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

Ted is still recovering from his Super Bowl hangover busy with strategic planning meetings regarding the future of AccessVegas.com. We hope to have some great new news to tell you next issue (knock on wood).

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ and Beer Rocks The House Nightly With Live Entertainment – Weekly live entertainment at the ”Hell House” will provide the ultimate music scene with performances from bands including Ryan Whyte Maloney, Tony Marques Band and Southern Rockers at the all-new Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer inside Excalibur.

Bellagio Launches 2012 Epicurean Epicenter Series with Unrivaled Dinner Featuring Pinot Noir Saturday, February 11 – The 2012 Epicurean Epicenter Series at Bellagio kicks-off with exquisite Pinot Noirs from the vineyards of Pisoni, Siduri and ROAR Saturday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. in Tuscany Kitchen. Guests will indulge in a four-course menu designed by Sensi Executive Chef Royden Ellamar, beautifully complemented by the remarkable wines of these Californian renowned wineries.

KGB: KerryÆs Gourmet Burgers Launches Burger and Shake of the Month Program – KGB: KerryÆs Gourmet Burgers at HarrahÆs is offering a unique monthly burger and shake special beginning this month. Each flavorful burger and shake creation, crafted by master chef Kerry Simon, is only available for one month. The burgers are served with fries and priced at $14; shakes are $6, and the burger and shake of the month combo is $18.

The 43rd Annual World Series of Poker Schedule Unveiled with Three More Bracelet Events and Nearly 100 Tables Added to Tournament Footprint – 61 total WSOP gold bracelets up for grabs, including the Main Event which begins on July 7. The 43rd annual World Series of Poker« (WSOP«) presented by Jack LinkÆs Beef Jerky û the worldÆs longest-running, richest and most prestigious poker series open to anyone 21 years of age or older û officially puts cards in the air on Sunday, May 27. The first open WSOP gold bracelet event will take place on Memorial Day, Monday, May 28 with a $1,500 No-Limit HoldÆem tournament. A total of 61 coveted gold bracelets will be up for grabs in 2012 û three more than last year.

Public House Features Their Spicy Number, The Bitter Hottie, On Valentine’s Day – It wonÆt take much to spice things up this ValentineÆs Day as Public House, a contemporary tavern located in The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, highlights their beer-blended Bloody Mary, the æBitter Hottie,Æ on Tuesday, Feb. 14. ”Our extensive beer program is a huge part of the identity of Public House,” says owner Billy Richardson. ”With the æBitter Hottie,Æ we go a step further by merging our beer and cocktail programs for a delicious twist on the classic Bloody Mary.”

Indulge in Luxurious Dining with the Black Truffle Menu at Restaurant Guy Savoy inside Caesars Palace – Dine and be delighted with the latest black truffle menu now available at Restaurant Guy Savoy inside Caesars Palace. This annual menu follows the huge success of SavoyÆs white truffle menu, making the Michelin star restaurant stand apart by offering both black and white truffle menus when in season. The lavish eight-course menu is priced at $398 per person and will be available through February 2012.

SamÆs Town Offers ValentineÆs Day Specials – SamÆs Town Hotel & Gambling Hall will offer ValentineÆs Day specials on Tuesday, February 14. Specials include: ValentineÆs Supper Club with Wes Winters at SamÆs Town Live! 5:30 to 9 p.m. During an evening of music, dancing and dining, Winters will entertain guests, drawing from a huge musical repertoire and bringing the one-of-a-kind showmanship and musical prowess for which heÆs become known. Through dynamic piano pieces and signature vocal arrangements, Winters will perform standards, Broadway, original tunes and the occasional audience request. The floor will be open for those inspired by the music to dance the night away.

OscarÆs Steakhouse Announces ValentineÆs Day Specials – Lovers of Las Vegas û locals and tourists alike û have a new place to celebrate ValentineÆs Day. ItÆs OscarÆs steakhouse at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, the home away from home of one of the cityÆs most beloved and colorful leaders, former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman. OscarÆs Beef ? Booze ? Broads, which opened in December in the PlazaÆs iconic dome overlooking Fremont Street, is celebrating its first ValentineÆs Day by offering a special three-course menu for couples who dine there Feb. 14.

Celebrate ValentineÆs Day at Las VegasÆ Most Romantic Restaurants – Indulge in the seductive flavors of natural aphrodisiacs this ValentineÆs Day with unparalleled dining experiences at MGM Resorts International restaurants. >From specialty prix fixe menus for two to splendid buffets, the chefs at ARIA, Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Monte Carlo, Luxor, Excalibur and Circus Circus have crafted exceptional menus to help guests ignite romance.

Hash House A Go Go celebrates romance with ValentineÆs Day specials – To celebrate ValentineÆs Day, all four restaurant locations will feature specials on Tuesday, Feb. 14 ranging in price from $4.95 to $24.95 in addition to the mouthwatering regular menu items. Specials for ValentineÆs Day include:

Vegas Nights Helicopter TourVegas Nights Helicopter Tour û Save time and money. Our Maverick Lights tour with out the Transportation. Spend more time seeing Las Vegas and arrive at our terminal 30 minutes prior to departure time. Reserve your seats today!

Click To Book Vegas Nights Helicopter Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Member’s Mania will return when Ted returns next issue.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe February 1, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Coming Events Listings û WeÆve created a new site just for listing specific events at events.accessvegas.com. WeÆll always be adding to it and linking the events in each newsletter:

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

No rest for the wicked as I’m dealing with 2011 accounting, 2012 budgeting (it may surprise you that I actually do the boring “running the business” work) and we’re also prepping to add video previews to every hotel and shows page of AccessVegas.Com (long overdue).

We’re also prepping for a major site enhancements (new look and feel that is more usable) and some other very cool things we’re keeping under our hat. So without further ado, we’ll jump right in this week.

Legionnaires Death – You may have seen news that a Luxor guest recently died from Legionnaires Disease. Last year, an outbreak affected a number of guests at Aria as well. I don’t want to play this down. I myself had a very serious respiratory illness just about a year ago that nearly killed me.

However, I want to put something in perspective: Nearly 40 million people visit Las Vegas per year. Your odds of contracting and being affected by Legionnaires Disease while on vacation here are right around 0.0000002%. Certainly not a number that should scare one from traveling.

Cab Drivers At It Again – Although isolated, recent reports note complaints against cab companies regarding drivers who are not only complaining when they don’t feel they were tipped enough, but actually locking the cab doors and not allowing customers to leave the vehicle until they pony up the an amount that the driver feels he deserves.

I end up taking a cab a few times per year and while I haven’t had this happen to me, I have gotten long-hauled. And, the sob stories about how slow the night is. O,r cab drivers telling me that I’m their last ride of the night and they were hoping to catch a fare to a strip club (where they get huge kickbacks for dropping off customers). But this is simply ridiculous. Here’s what I’m doing about it:

Enter this phone number into your cell phone: 702-668-4000. This is the number for the Nevada Taxicab Authority here in Las Vegas. (On the very rare chance you are detained by actually being locked into a cab, call 911 first and and report that you’ve been kidnapped). Should you get long-hauled or have any other problem with a cabbie, call it the Taxicab Authority (TA) number.á You’ll see the driver’s demeanor change so fast, you won’t believe it.

On the occasions I’ve been long-hauled and threated to call the TA, I’ve had drivers’ faces turn white as a ghost. Even if you don’t want to confront a cabbie, make a note of the taxi company name and cab number once you are out, and call them once he drives off. They take complaints very seriously.

Some other selected information about cabs in Las Vegas courtesy of the Taxicab Authority:

  • Passengers utilizing a credit card for payment will be charge a $3.00 fee over and above the meter charge. Not all cabs accept credit cards, so ask.
  • Las Vegas taxicab drivers cannot pick up passengers off of the street (flag or hailed ride). In the tourism areas, pickup is only at cab stands (every hotel has one).
  • Taxicab passengers can only be charged the amount shown on the taxi meter.
  • Taxicab fares must be paid in U.S. currency.
  • All passengers must wear a seat belt while in a taxicab.
  • The maximum number of passengers permitted in a Las Vegas taxicab (sedan style) is five.
  • Use of the I-215 tunnel from McCarran airport is NEVER the shortest route to ANY Las Vegas Strip hotel.
  • Taxicab drivers must obey the passengerÆs directions as it relates to route taken.
  • Taxicab passengers CANNOT be charged for the loading/unloading or transporting of their luggage.
  • Tips or gratuities to taxi drivers in Las Vegas are optional and NOT required.
  • ôLong Haulingö occurs when a taxi driver takes the least direct route without the passengerÆs permission.
  • Las Vegas taxicab drivers are not permitted to divert a passenger from their original destination.
  • Nevada Taxicab Authority enforcement personnel are on duty 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.

Airport To Strip/Downtown On The Cheap – A relatively new bus line designed to take people from Summerlin (Northwest Las Vegas) to the airport has spawned an opportunity for the budget traveler (especially if alone and no one to share a cab ride with). The Westcliff Express departs the airport and goes straight to The Strip at Tropicana (where if needed, you can catch the ever-present double-decker Deuce bus to any other Strip location). Stay on the express and the route jumps on the freeway for a very quick ride to downtown, cutting right through Fremont Street.

Fare is $2 if you don’t need to use The Deuce, and $5 if you do need to make that transfer. IE, you can ride from the airport to MGM, NY NY, Trop, Hooters, Excalibur or all the way to Fremont Street for $2. (If changing to the Deuce, alert your driver so he can help you get the right ticket, and drop you off closest to The Strip). Route Map

Dream Team Divas – During March Madness of 2010, we shot some footage downtown of the various free entertainment which included the Dream Team Divas (seen in the second half of this YouTube video): Las Vegas Free Entertainment: Dancing Bartenders, Fan Halen, Dream Team Sexy Divas Shows

We we’re just contacted by American’s Got Talent who saw the video and are looking for the dance group. Unfortunately, we have no contact information on them. If you (or someone you know) is associated with the dance group, please contact us at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

P.S. Some moron actually voted the video a “dislike” (obviously someone who hates life, asámany of you find Fremont Street at nightálots of fun). If you have a minute, go check out the video, click the “Thumbs Up” to give it a like, and comment if you wish. If you enjoy that sort of thing, we’ll do more videos on both The Strip and downtown as the weather gets nice!

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Tacos and Tequila To Spice Up ValentineÆs Day With Special Prix Fixe Menu – To celebrate El Dia Del Amor, Chef Saul Ortiz has created a special ValentineÆs Day prix fixe menu for couples to share on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) inside Luxor Hotel and Casino. Priced at $29 per person, the menu features delicious appetizers, a choice between three entrÚes and a delectable dessert sampler.

Qua Baths and Spa At Caesars Palace To Revitalize Spa Experience With Innovative Aura-Soma Color Therapy Series – The award-winning Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace will bring a new dimension of therapy to the spa industry with the launch of the AURA-SOMA« series. AURA-SOMA combines massage and aromatherapy with the natural healing powers of color and light, a trend that was predicted as one of the Top 10 2012 Global Spa Trends by SpaFinder.

Rediscover The RMS Titanic One Artifact at a Time – Artifact Feature: American Steamboat Playing Cards – As the centennial of the tragic sinking approaches, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition invites guests to learn more about the recovered artifacts of the ôShip of Dreams.ö Soon to be sold at auction with almost 5,000 additional artifacts valued at $189 million, these American steamboat playing cards are from a pack of 52 found among the personal property of passenger Howard A. Irwin and can be found inside Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Angel Management Group And Hakkasan Ltd. Partner To Launch Fine-Dining And Nightlife Concept At MGM – Las Vegas Entertainment and Nightlife Group Joins Michelin-Starred Luxury Dining Brand to Debut Highly Anticipated Restaurant and Nightclub in December 2012. Leading entertainment and nightlife company Angel Management Group (AMG) and Hakkasan Ltd., a prestigious global restaurant brand, announced today a partnership to launch a Michelin-starred luxury-dining brand combined with a lavish new nightclub at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino.

Miracle Mile Shops Turns its fountain red for American Heart month – This February, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino turns its fountain red in honor of American Heart Month. All change collected from the fountain will be donated to the American Heart Association, as part of the centerÆs Caring, Giving, Changing community campaign.

Score A Win During March Madness At LBS Burger – Basketball Fans with æDeadÆ Sports Book Ticket will Receive Free Beer – LBS Burger Joint at Red Rock Casino Resort will feature a slam dunk special for basketball fans sulking in the sorrows of a losing team, offering one free draft beer to patrons who present a ædeadÆ sports book ticket during March Madness, from Tuesday, March 13, until Monday, April 2.

Catch ‘The Big Game’ and eat like a king at InsertCoin(s) Videolounge Gamebar – Watch ôThe Big Gameö at InsertCoin(s) Videolounge Gamebar and take advantage of amazing drink specials and food from Slidin’ Thru. Beer buckets, gourmet sliders from SlidinÆ Thru and Stoli Vodka drink specials make for the perfect Sunday afternoon viewing.

Skywalk Odyssey Grand Canyon TourSkywalk Odyssey Grand Canyon Tour û Your direct helicopter flight to the Grand Canyon Skywalk departs from the Las Vegas Strip. Experience a bird’s eye view of the Grand Canyon, Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam and the Las Vegas Strip on your flight. Upon landing at the Grand Canyon, get ready to witness a true engineering marvel.

Click To Book Skywalk Odyssey
Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just got back from your wonderful city, we were there right before Christmas. (Ed. note: We’re a bit backlogged on email here). Here are some notes from our vacation:

Bellagio and Venetian were decorated beautifully for the holidays, didn’t see much in the way of decorations at other casinos/hotels.

Two excellent restaurants that I tried for the first time were Hash House A Go Go and Border Grill. They were both great!! The Hash House that we ate at was in the Imperial Palace, and Border Grill is in Mandalay Bay.

We stayed at the Flamingo, in an old room. It was clean but in need of some repair. Loved the location and the price we paid. Used Southwest airlines, no problems, but pay the extra $10 to get an early boarding!

Saw Marc Savard’s Comedy Hypnosis show for the second time, it is hilarious. A little crazy at the end, but funny.

Rented a car from Dollar with pick up and drop off at the airport, everything was fast and without problems. They seem to have it down to a science.

Friends were married at La Bella chapel in the Hilton. Very nice, great people! The minister was excellent, and so was the photographer.

A couple of honorable mentions. La Salsa Cantina still very good food. In and out Burger good fast food. Bellagio fountains magnificent as always. Love the Fremont Experience, but they have to change it, it has been the same for a while now. The new and improved Plaza was very nicely redone!!

Thanks for letting me share,

Gary from Ingleside, Illinois

I really enjoy your newsletter and read it when it comes out. My questions concerns the road closures behind the Flamingo, Imperial Palace and Harrah’s, I typically stay at either the Flamingo or Harrah’s as the access to and from the hotels in the back of the property makes things quite convenient. Do you have any idea if the closures are permanent? I can’t seem to find any info other than that they are closed.

Thanks again,

Stephen Chiyka

 

Ted Responds:

Fortunately, we had to go over and check out the Tuscany the next evening (probably still a best kept secret). Audrie is still open behind Flamingo, Harrah’s and IP from Flamingo Rd. on back. But the connector roads to Koval are closed. Long term, Harrah’s wants to build their arena back there and they are already planing the Ferris wheel in that area as well. Plus, the alley between O’Sheas and Flamingo is being permanently closed for project Linq. So unquestionably we’re eventually losing some of the great “behind The Strip” access.

While I’m at it, we continued to be very impressed with The Tuscany. True suites, live music in their lobby lounge every night but Monday, free wi-fi in their lobby, lobby lounge, and patio by the pool, well appointed casino, decent restaurants (plus just across the street from Restaurant Row) and some amazingly low weekday rates. Only 1/2 mile from The Strip (which is the distance from Venetian to Bellagio).

On a side note, one of the things I’m looking forward to once we get into our paid subscriber program is to be able to answer more questions like this. We were lucky to be in the area this time, but I’d like to be staffed so that we can do continual reports and updates regarding any construction affecting visitors, special short-cuts (whether you are in a car or on foot), parking garage and valet secrets, and much more. Speaking of…

Angry Caller – Below in our contact section, we note that we actually do read each email and listen to each call comment. Most of you have been very understanding and supportive of our pending move to a paid subscribership model, and we thank you for that. This is not directed at you. (Feel free to skip right on down the the More section if that is you).

However, a recent caller left a message noting their displeasure on the proposed membership fee and predicted that what happened to Netflix will happen to us. Since others may feel that way (and since we often have people who tune out, then start reading the couple of months before their next trip who need to get in the loop), here is my response:

  1. Obviously, this person is a reader who enjoys all of the information. Otherwise, why would they care? I don’t happen to watch the Lifetime cable network. If they went to an HBO format (paid subscription base), I wouldn’t subscribe nor would care. So the reality is that this gentleman wants me and my small staff to continue work like crazy on the newsletter and ignore the major upgrades needed at our flagship AccessVegas.comájust so he can keep getting all the info.

    Guess what: I’d like to walk into my favorite restaurant and eat the food free all the time. But just as the restaurant has staffing and budget constraints, so do we. And with the growth of both the site and newsletter, we simply can’t maintain both at present staffing levels.

  2. We WILL be maintaining a free version of the newsletter. Absolutely. But, it will be a bit more stripped down (no insider info from my nearly 20 years of covering this market, and we’ll only guarantee to answer questions from paid subscribers as it does take time and research in many cases) and it will have more advertising. The paid edition will have all the content, very little advertising, and (over time) helpful bonus features available to paid members only.

    This is really no different than your choices to watch a movie on TV. For a small fee, you can pay to subscribe to HBO and/or buy a movie pay-per-view and see the entire film relatively shortly after release, uncut and unedited.á Or, you can wait until the film comes out on network television and watch it absolutely free, but with some of the key parts edited/censored, cuts for time, and constantly interrupted by commercials.

  3. Netflix abruptly raised subscriber prices by a pretty noticeable chunk of change. Yes, it cost them subscribers. We’re in a totally different boat. Right now, we make exactly $0.00 off of subscribers. If we (for some reason) lost 20% of our subscribers, we’d still be making exactly (um, let me do the math here…) $0.00 from our subscribers.

    On the flip side: If only 1875 subscribers come over to the paid subscription model, I can hire another full-time employee. If we get 3000 subscribers, I an additionally hire a couple of part-timers to help the new full-time person. Which will allow us to bring members so much more of the information that they ask for.

    Let me give you an example: We frequently get emails that say I’ll be in town such and such week, I like XYZ kind of music, is anything like that playing in any of the casino lounges or party bars (Margaritaville, Carnival Court, etc.). Wouldn’t it be great if we had a way for paid members to search by type of music, location, or time of day and even had links to YouTube clips of the bands or acts in your category so you could tell whether it is worth going over to see them?

    If you aren’t into live music, simply extrapolate this concept over to what you are into. I’d love to do stuff like that. Kill to do it. We just need the staffing. And frankly, I’d rather do some amazing things for a few thousand people who are willing to help us out by subscribing then do it for 50,000 people that don’t think we’re worth $2 a month.

Thanks For Your Support!

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 25, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Coming Events Listings û WeÆve created a new site just for listing specific events at events.accessvegas.com. WeÆll always be adding to it and linking the events in each newsletter:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – After a couple of chilly days and scattered showers, we’re looking at 70 degrees F through Friday and 60’s for the weekend. The weather service predicted above-average temps for this time of year, and they haven’t disappointed.

So Long Phantom – After an amazingly long run, Phantom – The Las Vegas spectacular is coming to a close on Labor Day weekend (first weekend of September). If you’ve always pondered checking it out (or want to see the Las Vegas version one more time), the clock is ticking.

Some of you are thinking “I can see it in another city”… but not this version. The theatre was constructed specifically for the show with some special effects that you simply won’t find anywhere else. And most likely never again after Labor Day. We’d like to thank Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular for being a longstanding advertiser on AccessVegas.com and in our newsletter. Please support us by using the ticket graphic in the right sidebar to find out more about the show or to purchase tickets.

The D? – A couple of months ago, we were the first to come to you with the inside scoop on the second floor renovation plans for Fitzgeralds downtown. Rumor is now floating around that the hotel’s new name will become “The D” (presumably standing for downtown). Unfortunately, we can’t yet get a confirmation on that yet but we’ll keep an eye on it. Doesn’t exactly roll of my tongue, but what do I know?

Fitzgeralds was recently purchased by the owners of the Golden Gate, and they plan to renovate the casinos and all rooms. On the down side, they have already started to raise beverage prices and we can’t help but thinking the end of some of the Fitz’s amazing food specials ($1.99 breakfast, $9.99 full order of ribs with all trimmings and salad, etc) might have seen their day. On a related note:

Bye, Bye World Famous $1.99 Shrimp Cocktail – The Golden Gate has closed their deli to accommodate their expansion. While they are still serving the shrimp cocktail in their Dupar’s restaurant 24/7, guess what: The price has been quietly raised to $2.99. This is NOT the only change. The recipe of the cocktail sauce has been altered! It is less sweet and much more spicy. Not “hot sauce” spicy but certainly plenty of tang.

I don’t mindáspicy food, but there was something special about the ketchup-based recipe that they’ve used for as long as I can remember. That special taste that is so embedded in many, many of our memories with having the shrimp at Golden Gate. A couple times a month, I’ll actually crave it and go down and enjoy it! I can deal with the $2.99 — it is still a bargain — but bring back the sauce that we all know and love!

Interstate 11 On Track, Hopefully – When the interstate highway system was built, Phoenix and Las Vegas were towns of relatively modest size. And hence, connected by a dangerous two lane highway even into the most recent years. Arizona only recently completed four-laning Kingman to Hoover Dam (and Nevada is finishing up the same our our side as we speak). Cranking it up to Interstate standards would require four lanes of divided the entire way and controlled access (overpass and on/off ramps) at intersections, which are few and far between most of the way. We’ll keep you posted.

Don’t Text In Your Car Here – Nevada has joined the list of states not allowing texting while driving. If you get ticketed, you’re out $50 (plus I assume court costs which can run into the hundreds). Hands-free devices are allowed. I don’t even touch my phone when driving in the resort corridor. It takes enough work to watch for other drivers who are sight-seeing and pedestrians who don’t understand “Don’t Walk” signs (like they have to hurry to the next hotel before it closes or something).

Least Delayed Airport – According to Travel + Leisure, Las Vegas had the fewest number of airline flight cancellations in 2011. This was followed by Phoenix, Portland (OR), Salt Lake City, and Seattle. Pretty impressive when you figure that McCarran Airport is the 7’th busiest in the nation! Five worst? La Guardia, Newark, O’Hare, Washington-Reagan, and Boston. Simple reason? The top 5 (all in the west) simply don’t get the snowstorms and the wide-open spaces between major cities don’t get as clogged up with air traffic.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Internationally Acclaimed Chef Gordon Ramsay to Open First Las Vegas Restaurant – Gordon Ramsay Steak – at Paris Las Vegas – Paris Las Vegas is pleased to announce internationally-renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay will open his first Las Vegas restaurant, Gordon Ramsay Steak, in the spring of 2012 in the heart of the picturesque resort. The new restaurant will replace Les Artistes Steakhouse. Michelin Star Chef Gordon Ramsay, known not only for his refined cuisine, but also his TV personality on several hit programs including ”HellÆs Kitchen,” ”MasterChef” and ”Kitchen Nightmares,” has generated world-wide attention and entertained viewers on six continents.

Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace to Offer Innovative In-Room Guest Technology – Exclusive web application and multimedia hub put guests in control – Octavius Tower, the sixth hotel tower at Caesars Palace, opened Jan. 2, 2012, raised the industry standard with an innovative technology package. The exclusive Octavius Tower web application and in-room technology featuresácreate a unique, interactive and high-touch service experience for hotel guests, unlike any other on the Las Vegas Strip.

PBR Invites Wine Lovers To Get Uncorked For National Wine Day Plus Drink Specials – Wine aficionados can unwind and celebrate their favorite beverage at PBR Rock Bar & Grill in honor of National Wine Day on Saturday, Feb. 18, with half-priced bottles of wine from 3 until 6 p.m. The popular Strip-side eatery features an array of wine selections including everything from Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, White Zinfandel, Riesling, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Celebrates Two Years In Las Vegas With Week Long Bash -Celebrate SammyÆs Two Years on the Strip January 23 Through 29 – After two years of not being able to drive 55, Sammy HagarÆs Cabo Wabo Cantina will celebrate its birthday with a week-long extravaganza. Starting Monday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 29, the popular Mexican restaurant and bar will offer guests food and drink specials, live entertainment and plenty of prizes, including an autographed guitar from Sammy Hagar himself.

Fantasy Celebrates ValentineÆs Day By Teaming Up With Tacos and Tequila And Rice and Company – Patrons Can Purchase Dinner for Two and Show Tickets Package Throughout February – Love is in the air this February as The StripÆs hottest adult-revue FANTASY partners with Tacos & Tequila (T&T) and Rice & Company offering couples dinner and show packages at Luxor Hotel and Casino. Valid February 1 û 29, patrons purchasing the ôGet a Heart Onö package will receive a full night of entertainment with a prix fixe menu at either restaurant, two tickets to FANTASY and a 2012 Ultimate FANTASY calendar. The ôGet a Heart Onö package includes:

Cabo Wabo Cantina Hosts Karaoke – ValentineÆs Day Edition – Celebrate ValentineÆs Day with Jimmy Z and Brandy Beavers – Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino is ready to rock out this ValentineÆs Day. The bodacious Brandy Beavers will accelerate heartbeats as she teams up with Jimmy Z to host a very special loverÆs edition of ôStar Search Celebrity Karaokeö on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

Colorist To The Stars Michael Boychuck To Offer Lavish ‘ValentineÆs Day Package’ At His World-Renowned Salons – Leading beauty expert and colorist to the stars, Michael Boychuck, will offer an indulgent ‘ValentineÆs Day Package’ at his salons in honor of the most passionate holiday of the year. ”It doesnÆt matter whether my clients are celebrating with someone special or having a fun night out with their single friends, ValentineÆs Day is the one day of the year that ladies want to look their best,” says the hair extraordinaire.

Cuddle Up With A Cocktail And A Loved One At RHUMBAR This ValentineÆs Day – Enjoy Specialty Cocktails Under the Warmth of a Snuggie at RHUMBAR – Nothing gets lovers in the mood like curling up together with a warm cocktail to enjoy a classic romantic movie. This ValentineÆs Day, RHUMBAR at The Mirage will showcase love stories on the patio while guests sip weather inspired concoctions and cuddle with their Valentine under a specially made RHUMBAR Snuggie«. Tuesday, Feb. 14, the stylish cocktail lounge will transform into a ValentineÆs Day themed wonderland for a special holiday experience. Patrons will enjoy classic romantic movies such as ”Casablanca,” ”Breakfast at TiffanyÆs” and others, while they cuddle up under RHUMBAR Snuggies«.

Spice Up Relaxation with Romance this ValentineÆs Day at Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas Resort Spas – Celebrate the romantic holiday with sweet, sultry and singleÆs treatments this ValentineÆs Day at Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas resorts. Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace will offer sweet treat facials and sensual couplesÆ massages. For those solos, Rio Spa & Salon at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino will be celebrating Singles Awareness Day with its take on anti-ValentineÆs treatments including a makeover for revenge. Spa by Mandara at Paris Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will offer lavish romance and luxury couplesÆ treatments in private suites.

Grand Canyon Western Territory TourGrand Canyon Western Territory Tour û Experience the thrill of the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, on a flight with Maverick Airlines. Fly in Maverick style on a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft to Grand Canyon West as you enjoy spectacular views along Eagle Point. At the Indian Village you will receive a brief introduction to the Hualapai Indian legends and culture, and then proceed to Guano Point, where you’ll observe a breathtaking view of the canyon.

Click To Book Grand Canyon
Western Territory Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

MGM closing the lion habitat is sad and foolish. I know the single reason I go to MGM is to see the lions but with them going away, there is absolutely no reason to walk in and spend any time there. It seems that MGM is buying into the new Las Vegas myth they have created with their City Center monstrosity, that people only care about how fancy places are. If they want to make their swiftly alienated customers happy, move them to their sister property Circus Circus, where they would fit right in with the circus theme.

Maybe it’s just me, but it seems that MGM is sacrificing their other properties uniqueness to keep City Centers carcass breathing. That place is an answer to a question that was never asked, and no amount of public cheering is going to turn it into a place that people want to go to. I hope I’m wrong, but I can see them closing the shark tank at Mandalay Bay, the Secret Garden at Mirage and completely sterilizing their other properties, just to give the appearance that City Center is where everyone should go.

It didn’t surprise me that Viva Elvis didn’t make it, as an Elvis fan I can tell you I was very unhappy with the way they changed his music. If they wanted a hit, they should have brought in Elvis the Concert, instead of letting acrobats jump around to music that was changed to the point that it became something completely different.

When I read about them wanting to implode the Harmon, my only reaction is why stop there?

Jerry

 

Ted Responds:

Tell us how you really feel, Jerry! I’m a bit dubious myself on the effort to monetize every square foot of every hotel property these days. One of the joys of walking into The Mirage used to be the tiger habit. Now we’re seeing the iconic lions go. Certainly Circus would have been a great place to incorporate them (and been an added draw to the property).

19% of Las Vegas visitors were first-timers last year. One could certainly argue that maybe most had seen the lions so they were no longer a draw. BUT, let’s remember that you must visit Las Vegas multiple times before you come close to seeing 1/2 of what there is to do and see. Something like that gets on someone’s “to do” list that they may not knock off on their first visit, but gets them into the MGM (often for the first time) on subsequent visits.

You certainly aren’t alone in disliking CityCenter. Famed casino designer Paul Steelman (Harrah’s Atlantic City, Foxwoods, Beau Rivage, Hard Rock Biloxi, etc) took an indirect pot-shot at it in an interview with UNLV Gaming Studiesásaying (and I paraphrase) “You don’t design a gaming resort to look like the building that people go to work in”. Those who stay at CityCenter love it. But the icy cold steel blue look certainly is on contrast with the whites, oranges, golds, and browns of the rest of The Strip. This leads many to find if foreboding and something they are not willing to take the hike to see.

Ted Newkirk
CEO, Managing Editor
AccessVegas.com

I’ve seen a few stories about certain casino owners making huge political contributions related to the presidential election. I’d be curious to know which casinos and casino owners have made such contributions, and to which candidates or political action committee.

Would it be possible to compile such a list and include it in a future newsletter? I don’t expect that the coverage I’m seeing is comprehensive. I’ll bet a lot of your readers would steer their business toward certain properties and away from others if they knew some of their money was funneling to candidates they oppose.

Scott from Dimondale, MI

 

Ted Responds:

Venetian/Pallazo owner Sheldon Adelson made big nes by donating $5 million to a Political Action Committee which helped Newt Gingrich win South Carolina, and his wife has just kicked in another 45 to the campaign. If Newt continues to do well, word is that more will be coming. The Adelson’s are long-time friends of Gingrich and are both very pro-Israel.

After the last election, we also had reader interest in this topic and I covered which side of the political aisle the heads of the major gaming companies tend to donate to in my blog post Why Did All The Las Vegas Casinos Support Harry Reid Last Election?

Of interesting note: Democrats hold a 50,000 voter edge over Republicans, but that is half of what the edge was on 2008. A fair amount of conjecture exists as to why, but here is what I’m seeing: Construction workers (most of them union and registered Democrats) have had to pack up and leave in light of the fact that virtually no new construction is on the horizon.

On the flip side, entrepreneurs (the kind who can make money and run their business from just about anywhere there is internet and FedEx) and who tend to be anti-tax and anti-regulation have been choosing to relocate here from less business friendly states, and small business hiring for 2012 is actually looking up here because of it.

Will it flip Nevada from Blue to Red? Not likely in the new future. The Culinary union still represents a high percentage of hotel/casino employees. The union seems to have a very strong influence over who they vote for.

HAPPY NEW YEAR from the Big Apple! To refresh your memory, a number of years ago, we communicated back and forth after I took exception to your comment about New Year’s Eve in New York.

I have to remark about your comments with the New Years Eve in New York this issue. Although only 17 blocks are closed off, there are many restaurants, hotels and office buildings facing the “ball drop” which allow people in for the festivities — so they need to be counted in addition to the brave hearts on the street.

What you never mentioned was the hours of live entertainment by major stars that are performing on a raised platform in the middle of the crowd. This year, because of Dick Clark’s record breaking anniversary, the show began several hours before midnight.

I watched it all — and thought New York did a hell of a job entertaining everyone who braved the hours waiting in the street. Fortunately, the weather was quite nice which was a tremendous bonus. Lady Gaga, Pit Bull, etc. put on amazing performances and did not disappoint the crowd.

I truly think each city has its own personality and everyone makes a choice as to where they want to be that night.

I love your newsletter (fyi — I’m moving to LV this year — hopefully by the end of August).

My best advice is hype Las Vegas while not dissing other cities and how they celebrate.

Best regards and warm wishes for a very happy and healthy New Year.

Shelli from New York

 

Ted Responds:

This was regarding the remarks I made in our New Years issue about comparing the New York City celebration to the Las Vegas event.

First of all, please note that I wasn’t dissing New York. If that were my goal, I’d say the kind of stuff that people from Boston say about New York! (Sounds like a Super Bowl to me… talk about two cities who don’t like each other). Example: Someone commented to me that the London fireworks are better than ours. They may be. That’s not a knock on Las Vegas as a city.

No question, New York has the major performers out performing for the public (and primarily the TV cameras… I guarantee you that 80% of the attendees couldn’t see the stages). Las Vegas has a slew of major performers, but they were ticked events inside. The Stevie Wonder show at Marquee was shown on The Strip, displayed on the Cosmopolitan’s huge LED marquee.

Since I do promote Las Vegas tourism and will stick to my comparisons:

  • Here, you are allowed to roam the four miles of The Strip (sans the incredible congestion center Strip) starting at 6 PM, making it a 7 hour street party. In New York, you are penned up.
  • Here, there are porta potties. I heard from numerous sources that once you are in the pens in Times Square, you are not allowed out again even to use the bathroom.
  • New York? Liquor not allowed. Las Vegas? You can buy it on the street.
  • Ball Drop? 60 seconds in one spot. Fireworks show? Over 8 1/2 minutes stretching 3.5 miles.

I’m still extremely dubious on the million-plus number New York claims. Lets say that 250,000 people are in buildings surrounding Times Square. (a stretch, but they are tall buildings). That would leave just under 45,000 PER BLOCK in each of the 17 blocks they close off. That’s a big baseball stadium full of people crammed into each and every city block. I’m just not seeing it!

Here in Las Vegas, we noted 314,000 visitors occupying right around 150,000 hotel rooms (a very plausible number as the high new years rates invite multiple people to share rooms). Las Vegas and New York have had a friendly competition for a number of years now regarding which is the better place to do New Years Eve. I’m just asking New York to be honest about the numbers like we are!

At the end of the day, if one of the great New Years Eve celebrations is on your bucket list, I’m obviouslyágoing to suggest and promote Las Vegas. If we have a reader who has done both celebrations, I’d be more than happy to hear the comparison.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 11, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

 

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! I for one am certainly thankful that winter seems to be over. December is the coldest month of the year (and the least fun as it gets dark so early). 104 F (our average high for July and August) doesn’t phase me. Lows around freezing? That’s an issue. Sunshine has been plentiful and sunsets have had a spectacular pink hue lately.

Fremont Street “North” – Zappos.com head honcho Tony Hsieh (pronounced Shay) is on a single-handed mission to completely finish reviving downtown Las Vegas. Granted, the momentum was already there with the revitalization of East Fremont Street (aka Fremont East), a new performing arts center, new Golden Nugget tower, and complete overhauls of the El Cortez, Gold Spike, and Plaza.

Buried in a recent story about how he’d like to buy the 51’s (our AAA minor league baseball team) was an interesting note about improving the infrastructure of the current stadium which sits just 7 blocks north of Fremont Street (about the same distance as Plaza to El Cortez). This could encourage people to walk from downtown to the stadium (actually walking on Las Vegas Blvd. North) just as people now walk the Fremont East area.

This area is already called the Culture Corridor as it is home to the Las Vegas Library , the Las Vegas Natural History Museum , the Las Vegas Shakespeare Company , Lied Discovery ChildrenÆs Museum , The Neon Museum , the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort and State Historic Park. Of course, it is also home to some boarded up buildings and a few empty lots. I’m not suggesting that this is all going to happen overnight. It was upwards of a decade ago that you heard me predicting the renaissance that we’ve now seen downtown.

He’d also really be in a position to boost baseball attendance among younger people, making attending a game a “happening” thing to do. How? Simple: Give any unsold tickets to the 1000+ employees which will be working downtown when Zappos finishing moving their headquarters.

Mark my words: I believe some of the greatest increase in housing values in the next few years will be in the general downtown area (within 2 miles of the downtown core). These houses built in the 50’s are often going for under $60k, making them super-affordable to the young Zappos employees and others who are now loving downtown and will crave living close to both work and all of the cool new hangouts.

Five Best – Lots of “Best Of 2011” coming out lately. This week, we’re sharing a list courtesy of David and Alicia Ivy from the show Pub Crawl:

  • Best Nachos (Tie) – Volcano Nachos at Margaritaville (Flamingo Hotel) and Irish Nachos at McMullan’s Irish Pub (4650 W Tropicana Ave)
  • Best Casino Bar – Vesper (Cosmopolitan Hotel)
  • Best Restaurant Bar – Bootlegger (7700 Las Vegas Blvd South)
  • Best Place To Spend 5 Hours – Nine Fine Irishmen (New York, New York Hotel)
  • Best Pizza – Due Forni Pizza and Wine (3555 S Town Center Dr)
  • Best Dive Bar – Cheers (UNLV at Harmon)

Midnight Hockey – A couple times per year, the Las Vegas Wranglers (our local minor league hockey team) plays at midnight. The most recent outing, they drew over 4500 people! They are doing it again on the night of Feb. 19 (tickets). If you’re a hockey fan and want a unique experience, you might want to check it out. Las Vegas is a great place to live if you are a night owl or super-early riser. With all the overlapping shifts at the hotels, casinos, and nightclubs, there’s usually something interesting happening somewhere!

Coming Events Listings – We’ve created a new site just for listing specific events at events.accessvegas.com. We’ll always be adding to it and linking the events in each newsletter:

Better Treatment For International Visitors – This June, international flight arrivals will move to McCarran’s Terminal 3, leaving the terrible,e dated, cramped Terminal 2 behind. It has been ironic that those who fly the furthest always had the worst entry to our fair city. Terminal 3 will feature seven gates for international arrivals, a large and modern customs area, and some fine dining for those with time to kill. (No one really wants to eat fast food before a 12 hour flight).

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Take A Piece Of Peepshow Home With The New Holly Madison Meet and Greet Package – PEEPSHOW, Las VegasÆ highly-stylized striptease spectacular, is offering guests an exclusive Holly Madison souvenir with the new meet & greet upgrade. Priced at $100 per person, the ticket upgrade is available as an add-on to a ticket purchase in any price level and takes place following single show nights and after the late show on two-show nights.

George Wallace Honors Active Military Through Free Show Tickets – George Wallace, headliner in the ôI Be ThinkinÆö show at the Flamingo welcomes all active United States military members with a valid military ID to come see his show for free throughout 2012. Military members will each receive one free ticket to see ôThe new Mr. Vegasö in return for the support and dedication they have given the country.

KISS, Monster Mini Golf, Crazy Horse Paris, dancers, MGM, These Boots Are Made For RockinKISS By Monster Mini Golf to Open March 15, 2012 – ‘These Boots Are Made For Rockin!’ Featuring The Beautiful Dancers from MGM GrandÆs Crazy Horse Paris – KISS by Monster Mini Golf has announced the official opening date March 15, 2012 in Las Vegas. The venueÆs grand opening corresponds with the anniversary of the original KISS Destroyer Album, which was released on March 15, 1976. In honor of the official opening announcement for KISS By Monster Mini Golf, the MGM GrandÆs Crazy Horse Paris dancers seductively pose in the authentic Destroyer KISS boots that are touring Las Vegas.

Cabo Wabo, Karaoke, Jimmy Z, Star Search, Miracle Mile Shops, Planet HollywoodJimmy ZÆs ‘Star Search Celebrity Karaoke’ Hits Cabo Wabo Cantina – Cue the spotlight and classic hits as Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino plays host to Jimmy ZÆs ôStar Search Celebrity Karaokeö every Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 p.m. to midnight. Locals and tourists alike are encouraged to come in and release their inner rock-star by singing along to timeless covers, forgotten gems and everything in between.

Public House, Restaurant, Dining, Venetian, Grand Canal ShopsPublic House To Bring Contemporary Tavern To The Grand Canal Shoppes At The Venetian – With a vast beer selection and generous portions, the new Public House, located on Restaurant Row in The Venetian, a The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian lease, has all of the makings of a traditional tavern. But what makes this contemporary adaptation stand out is the exceptional fare by corporate executive chef, Anthony Meidenbauer, hard-to-find cask beer selections, NevadaÆs first certified beer cicerone and, a comfortable, hip atmosphere reminiscent of a Prohibition-era speakeasy that celebrates the classic tavern through the lens of modern design.

Rice & Company, Restaurant, Dining, Luxor, Naughty & Spice Roll, AsianSpread The Love This ValentineÆs Day At Rice and Company – LuxorÆs Asian Bistro Sparks Romance with ‘Naughty and Spice’ Roll – Love is in the air at Rice & Company this ValentineÆs Day as Executive Chef Danny Chen introduces the new mouthwatering sushi creation ôNaughty & Spiceö now being served at the celebrated contemporary Asian Bistro at Luxor Hotel and Casino. Hearts will melt for this themed specialty roll which is stuffed with crunchy shrimp tempura, spicy tuna and juicy mango then topped with salmon and avocado. A true sweet for the sweetheart, sliced strawberries and a spicy strawberry sauce envelop ChenÆs decadent invention creating a tantalizing mixture of sugar and spice. A special treat for all lovers, this tempting roll is priced at $16.

Comme Ca, Cosmopolitan, Valentine's Day 2012, DiningComme Ca To Offer Romantic Dining Experience With Special Prix Fixe Menu On Valentine’s Day – Comme Ãa, brought to The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas by celebrity chef David Myers, will feature an exquisite ValentineÆs Day prix fixe dinner in celebration of the most romantic night of the year on Tuesday, February 14. The acclaimed brasserie will be the ideal destination for couples to celebrate their love as they share an intimate meal while enjoying the breathtaking views from Comme Ãa, with the Eiffel Tower and the lights of the Las Vegas Strip as its backdrop.

PBR Rock Bar and Grill, Miracle Mile Shops, Planet Hollywood, Mac & CheeseHearty American Comfort Food Classics Get Struck By CupidÆs Arrow For ValentineÆs Day At PBR Rock Bar And Grill – Forget the fancy, schmancy dinners, over-priced flowers and cheesy, heart-shaped candy boxes and celebrate ValentineÆs Day with your sweetheart PBR-style. PBR Rock Bar & Grill will offer the ultimate date night for couples who want to commemorate the holiday in a rockinÆ way with hearty American comfort food, drink specials and bull riding on Tuesday, Feb. 14. Lovebirds can start their night with romantic, two-for-one bull rides on the daunting mechanical bull and make a toast to their love with two-for-one glasses of Champagne.

X BarrymoreX Prix Fixe MenuX Valentine's Day 2012The Barrymore To Offer Romantic ValentineÆs Day Experience With Three Course Prix Fixe Menu – This ValentineÆs Day, The Barrymore inside The Royal Resort will provide guests with an unforgettably romantic evening. In celebration of the most loving day of the year, the acclaimed new restaurant will offer a sweetheart inspired prix fixe dinner sure to please all lovebirds.

X drink specialsX food specialsX mirageX PlayoffsX rhumbarX tailgateRhumbar To Host Playoff Tailgate Parties On The Patio With Food And Drink Specials – Big Game Sunday is not for the weak-hearted. Hours of training go into the big day for both players and fans. RHUMBAR inside The Mirage will help football fanatics train for their Big Game tailgate throughout the month of January with weekly playoff tailgate parties on the patio.

RHUMBAR Offers Tailgate Package For The Biggest Game Of The Year – Enjoy the Big Game at RHUMBARÆs Patio Tailgate Party – It doesnÆt get much better than bundling up, drinking beer, eating food off the grill and watching football, and guests at RHUMBAR inside The Mirage will be doing just that this big tailgate Sunday. Fans will throw on their favorite football attire to celebrate the biggest game of the year on RHUMBARÆs patio on Sunday, Feb. 5.

Mesa Grill Presented with Award for Top Donor During 2011 Restaurant Week – Bobby FlayÆs restaurant at Caesars Palace recognized for great community service – On Thursday, Dec. 15, Mesa Grill at Caesars Palace was awarded the top Gold Plate donor for the fifth annual Las Vegas Restaurant Week. For a two week period that started Aug. 29, locals and tourists had the opportunity to dine at some of Caesars EntertainmentÆs most popular restaurants while also helping to end hunger in Southern Nevada.

Golden Nugget Enchants Guests with Second Annual Masquerade Ball – Golden Nugget Las Vegas is creating the perfect blend of fantasy and mystery with their second annual Mardi Gras themed Masquerade Ball held in Gold Diggers, Saturday, Feb. 18 beginning at 8 p.m.

Rich Flavors and Extraordinary Cuisine Showcased in ARIAÆS February Signature Tasting Menus – ARIA Resort & Casino presents exciting new February Signature Tasting menus at three of its specialty restaurants. The spectacular culinary offerings, made with rich, seasonal produce and exceptional seafood and steak, highlight masterfully created dishes by the talented chefs at ARIA.

Indian Territory Grand Canyon TourIndian Territory Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with champagne, beverages and a light snack! This exciting tour begins by flying over the beautiful Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, the world famous Hoover dam and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano. View the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the southwest along the way.

Click To Book Indian Territory Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

No Members Mania this week. I know, I know… it is a favorite part of every newsletter and I really enjoy the interaction. We had some major prep work for our pending expansion (Reno, Laughlin, Biloxi, New Orleans, Atlantic City and a dedicated nightlife site with the bar and lounge info you’ve all been requesting forever).

Thanks for your understanding. We’re a small outfit doing our best!

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe January 4, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – And a very Happy New Year as we welcome in 2012. 2011 was a turnaround year for Las Vegas tourism. We got The Plaza back, the new Tropicana, and Cosmo completed their first full year. We did lose The Sahara but their owner is swearing up and down that they are getting ready to remodel it.

We fell just short of the all-time visitor volume record of 39.2 million (hitting an even 39 million). We’ll have no problem busting through that this coming year barring anything completely crazy happening.

New Years Eve saw 314,000 people flock to town. Room occupancy hit 98% despite the fact that obnoxiously high rates were the norm. The recovering economy and New Years Eve falling on a Saturday night sure didn’t hurt. Neither did the stretch of warm weather we’ve been happening. Temps at midnight were in the low 40’s with no wind but if you’re in the middle of the crowds, it feels much warmer. This past week saw unusually warm temps near the 70’s.

Blink And You’ll Miss It – Regular readers know that I mock the New York City celebration every year (when compared to ours). I was actually at home under the weather this year (I’ll live… Las Vegas happens 365 days per years) which provided me the opportunity to view the New York City ball drop. Almost. At 9 PM our time, I was switching back and forth between Fox News (ball drop), CNN (ball drop), and ESPN (which was hosting a daredevil jump by a couple of Evel Knievel wannabes). I flipped over to ESPN just for a few seconds to watch the wind-up to the jump and literally missed the ball drop.

So let me get this straight: People come from all over the world to Times Square many, many hours early so they can be put in pens (like cattle) to view a 60 second ball drop. Are you kidding me?!? You wanna talk about a cure for insomnia…

By the way, New York claims that over a million people attend the ball drop. Guess what: Reports I read note that only 17 blocks around Times Square are shut down for the event. Which makes that million number a blatant lie. You simply can’t fit a million people into 17 closed off blocks.

Side Note: Every year I hear from a few unhappy New Yorkers about all of this. Hey, if you want to explain he logistics of getting a million people into 17 blocks worth of street space, I’m all ears. I know what the 250,000 on The Strip look like and they pretty much fill up 3 miles of boulevard.

I digress…

Fortunately, at 10 PM our time, both KLAS and KSNV kicked in to their extensive local coverage. If you read my blog post (last issue) about New Years Eve tips or followed us on Twitter that night, you knew that KLAS actually streamed the entire coverage and both stations put on a network quality show.

I’m in utter shock why the LVCVA (Visitors Authority) here doesn’t partner with one of them and a cable network and broadcast our celebration to the nation. Sure, the time difference would be a factor (we’re three hours behind the East Coast, two hours behind Central Time), but you’d still have a fair amount of people curious enough to watch in many parts of the country.

Don’t take my word for it. Check out the entire 9 minute video at New YearÆs Fireworks Over Las Vegas Strip û Complete Video

Lion King Record – Looks like many of you took our advice to see The Lion King before it closed here in Las Vegas. The show grossed $1,369,460 in the final week at Mandalay Bay, a theatre record. (It didn’t hurt that Las Vegas is getting more busy than ever and the week between Christmas and New Years is a heavy family week here). We want to thank all of you who went to see The Lion King during their run. They were a long-time sponsor and when you support the sponsors we list in this newsletter, you help us keep our lights on and Nevadan’s employed! Speaking of…

Membership Update – We’ve received numerous questions from readers wondering when we are going to our membership model ($23.95 per year). Probably in another 6 weeks or so. We want to make sure it works correctly and has no glitches or problems. Something we’ve decided to do is offering a money-back guarantee. At the end of your first year, if you don’t think the information we provide (plus some of the expanded Las Vegas savings info and features we’ll be able to start providing members with the new revenue) was worth it, we’ll issue a full refund.

Tale Of Two Cities – We’ll hear from a reader who said they visited and Las Vegas was somewhat dead, then hear from one who visited a week later and marveled at how busy it was. Here’s what most people forget: Las Vegas is a very different place depending on time of year, day of the week, and even time of day!

If you usually visit on the weekdays, the weekend Las Vegas will be a bit foreign to you (more crowds, harder partying). If you are a daytime person who is in bed by midnight here, you’d be amazed at how vastly different things are a 1 PM as opposed to 1 AM. Fremont Street can be especially varied as daytimes feature an older crowd who are there to gamble. But once the sun goes down and the free entertainment starts, the party crowd takes over. Especially the nice weather months (March – October).

Why The Hilton Name Change – Both the Atlantic City and Las Vegas Hilton hotels have had to cease using the Hilton name. Evidently, their franchise agreements were not renewed by the Hilton Corporation for reasons that weren’t disclosed. An article in the November issue of Travel and Leisure magazine seemed to point out the reason why: Hilton is working to reinvent the brand with hundreds of new hotels (many of a more boutique nature) and shedding the stodgy image that a property like the Las Vegas Hilton carries.

Don’t Text In Your Car Here – Nevada has joined the list of states not allowing texting while driving. If you get ticketed, you’re out $50 (plus I assume court costs which can run into the hundreds). Hands-free devices are allowed. I don’t even touch my phone when driving in the resort corridor. It takes enough work to watch for other drivers who are sight-seeing and pedestrians who don’t understand “Don’t Walk” signs (like they have to hurry to the next hotel before it closes or something).

No Skyline Change For Now – The condemned (and never opened) Harmon tower — next to Cosmopolitan — won’t be coming down in the near future. The demolition hearing isn’t until March. It will take all that time to get the finger-pointing taken care of, have a judge decide who is at fault, and decide if it really isn’t fixable.

Super Bowl – Right around this time of year, we start to get the “What is happening for Super Bowl?” questions. Information on various events has already started coming in and we’ll list it starting next week. However, don’t hold your breath on info for the hotel parties. For some crazy reason, they get us that info about three days before kickoff which leaves us no time to include it here (although we will get it on Twitter this year). Don’t forget, you can catch the breaking news and deals that don’t make deadline here by joining the nearly 13,000 people that follow us at http://twitter.com/AccessVegas

Welcome Absinthe – We’d like to welcome a new sponsor to AccessVegas.com and this newsletter: Absinthe! I honestly can’t remember a show that has opened here to as much acclaim and buzz. The show is simply out-of-control and performed just feet away from the audience. Imagine a Cirque show run by a wealthy, smarmy, profane sideshow barker (The Gazillionaire) and then let your imagination run wild. This show is on the profane side at times, so avoid if you have sensitive ears.

Right now, they are offering $20 off if you book at this special link: Absinthe Las Vegas $20 Off Tickets

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Bellagio, hotel roomBellagio Completes $70 Million Room Remodel – AAA Five Diamond Resort Enhances Experience With More Than 2,500 Redesigned Deluxe Guest Rooms – Bellagio (click link to book) has completed the remodel of all 2,568 rooms in its main tower offering guests a fresh, elegant collection of newly redesigned deluxe accommodations. Each of the three distinct color palettes now available at Bellagio further enhances the AAA Five Diamond guest experience at one of the worldÆs most iconic resorts.

Desert, Hard Rock Hotel35 Steaks + Martinis Honors the Birthday of Music Legend, Elvis Presley at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Jan. 8-14 With Special Free Desert – Home to some of the worldÆs most priceless music memorabilia and rock and roll memories, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas honors the King himself, Elvis Presley, who would have celebrated his 77th birthday on January 8, 2012. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino celebrates Elvis with unique taste, sight and sound offerings available at 35 Steaks + Martinis at 5 p.m. nightly Sunday, Jan. 8 through Saturday, Jan. 14. Photo Credit: Erik Kabik/Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Night School For Girls, Valentine's Day, Excalibur, Laura CroftLearn The Art Of Seduction This ValentineÆs Day At Night School 4 Girls – Ladies looking to heat up their love lives this ValentineÆs Day can learn the art of seduction from real Las Vegas showgirls at Excalibur Hotel & CasinoÆs interactive class Night School 4 Girls. With signature burlesque and pole dance moves like the ôhair flip,ö ôMarilyn,ö ôbooty roll upö and ôcowgirl,ö ladies will learn the skills it takes to ensure that all of the luck in Vegas isnÆt only found on the casino floor. In addition to learning new, sexy moves, students will be taught the basics of partying Las Vegas style from the ultimate party girl Laura Croft.

PBR Rock Bar and Grill To Offer Hat Bender Cocktail Special In Honor Of National Hat Day – PBR Rock Bar & Grill at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will offer a canÆt miss, one-day deal in honor of National Hat Day on Sunday, Jan. 15. Revelers will be tipping their hats as the popular eatery will offer its Hat Bender signature cocktail for a special price of $10 from 3 to 6 p.m. Originally priced at $12, the Hat Bender is a refreshingly sweet mix of Smirnoff Citrus Vodka shaken with watermelon juice and lemonade. The Hat Bender special joins of slew of other great drink specials part PBR Rock BarÆs daily happy hour including $5 Jack DanielÆs Tennessee Whiskey drinks and Jager Bombs; 2-for-1 well drinks and $3 domestic draft beers.

Fantasy, Showgirl, Janary 2012, Soolin, LuxorFantasy Kicks Off 2012 With Soolin As January ‘Showgirl Of The Month’ – Steaming up the New Year is Soolin, FANTASYÆs January ôShowgirl of the Month.ö The sexy, adult revue at Luxor Hotel and Casino recognizes one of its stars each month in conjunction with its 2012 ôUltimate FANTASYö calendar. When Soolin is not on stage entertaining sold-out audiences, the Northern California beauty loves to keep her life low key. She likes to relax at home and is a dog lover who enjoys taking her Pomeranian- Chihuahua mix, Chip, to the dog park.

Joey Fatone Returns To Host ”The Price Is Right Live” Stage Show At Bally’s Las Vegas Jan. 11 – April 8 – ôThe Price is Right Liveö Stage Show at BallyÆs Las Vegas (click to book) welcomes back special celebrity host, Joey Fatone, for an exclusive engagement Jan. 11 û April 8. The show, from FremantleMedia, producers of ôAmerican Idolö and ôThe Price Is Rightö TV shows, features such fan-favorite games as ôPlinko,ö ôCliff Hanger,ö ôThe Big Wheelö and, of course, ôShowcase Showdown.ö Fatone will enlist audience members to play for a chance to win thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.

RHUMBAR Offers Cigar And Cocktail Pairing In Time For CES And AVN – Signature Cocktail and Mirage Toro Cigar Pairing Available in January – RHUMBAR, the stylish cocktail lounge at The Mirage, is making an offer convention goers canÆt refuse. Throughout the month of January, cocktail lovers and cigar aficionados will enjoy one of RHUMBARÆs signature cocktails paired with a premium Mirage Toro cigar for only $20.

Palazzo, Chinese New YearThe Venetian And The Palazzo Celebrate The Year Of The Dragon In Grand Style – DÚcor, food & beverage offerings and customary dragon dance to celebrate Chinese New Year – In honor of the most celebrated sign of the Chinese Zodiac, The Venetian and The Palazzo are commemorating the prosperous holiday in an over-the-top fashion. Beginning with a ceremonial dragon dance at 1 p.m. on Jan. 23, the Chinese New Year celebrations include lavish feng shui-inspired dÚcor, auspicious dish offerings and festive cocktails.

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

Click To Book Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hi, we have been going to Las Vegas for over 35 years.

This year, we wanted to go to Las Vegas from Jan 15 to Jan 22, 2012. We were looking at going to see Celine Dion.

We booked the flight, then the Vdara. We later learned the Vdara wanted to charge a resort fee. We are not aware of ever paying any resort fees previously and in many situations we were provided with many extra benefits and sometimes free rooms.

The travel Agent called the Vdara to see if they would waive the resort fee as my wife and I do not make use of any of the facilities and never have with any of the hotels we have stayed in Las Vegas.

They would not waive the fees. Therefore, I canceled the trip and am booking Hawaii. I will not pay for something I do not use or do not believe is fair.

Just thought I would let you know as I have been reading your material for many years and you have helped me out in the past.

Regards,

Norm

 

Ted Responds:

The following properties do not charge resort fees at last check:

Bally’s, Bills, Caesars, Cosmo, Harrah’s, Flaminigo, Manderin, Paris, IP, Planet Hollywood, and most major downtown hotels.

This isn’t a Vegas issue. Quite a few (upwards of 30, too many to list) Hawaii resorts also charge resort fees. Some to the tune of $25-30 per night. Hopefully, you’ll end up at one that does not, but you might want to check.

I’m no fan of resort fees, but they are becoming par-for-the-course. Your best way to fight back is to only patronize properties which don’t impose them. As you are passionate about this issue, you may also wish to contact your Senator or House Member and ask them to look into whether these fees are misleading or not.

PS Hey, you read our newsletter. I’m sure you know more about Vegas than your travel agent does. Consider booking at AccessVegas.com instead. We have the best places and rock bottom rates in conjunction with our hotel partners!

——————–

Follow Up: Norm just emailed me to let me know they were changing their plans and will indeed be vacationing in Las Vegas!

Regarding the possibility of putting strip clubs in casinos, you said “Let’s keep the strip clubs over in the industrial area behind the hotels where they belong.”

Here’s my idea; Let’s put the ultra clubs over in the industrial area behind the hotels where they belong!!!

I (and a lot of other Vegas visitors I know) are sick of the way the casinos are focusing on the drunken, obnoxious, rude, rowdy, 20 something douche bags who take over the casinos either at night, or by day at the pools. Don’t the casinos want us gamblers anymore???

No comps, no drink service, no decent payouts, no respect!!! Vegas was built by us but we have been forgotten by the corporations who now run their little casino monopolies.

I would much rather have a strip club which only attracts men who will come and go without much notice, than an ultra club that is completely the opposite!

Thanks for letting me rant!!! love your newsletter!

Candace Winters
(Vegas visitor 4 – 6 times a year since 1994)

 

Ted Responds:

No question that this issue has been coming to a head. When Steve Wynn spent nearly $70 million to build the Encore Beach Club, the complaints about “douchebags” and Jersey Shore (the reality show) types overrunning the property has become a serious issue among those who are there for the upscale gambling experience. One wonders if it played (even a little bit) into the decision to close the five star, five diamond Alex French restaurant at Wynn. The clubbers spend all day at the pool, nap in the evening, spend all night in the clubs, then nap in the morning. They aren’t sitting down to a 2 hour, $200 meal.

The clubbers and pool party goers are extremely lucrative. They pay steep admission fees, drink lots of $14ádrinks (with 30 cents worth of booze in it), and pay many hundreds/thousands of dollars for “bottle service” (where a $30 retail bottle of liquor is purchased for $400 and way up to insure that the guests get a private table). However, is it so lucrative that the properties don’t mind scaring off good gamblers? That seems to still be in question.

Cosmopolitan is proving an interesting study. They opened wanting to attract (in their words) the “curious class”. And to a point they have. Guests love their mixology bars, restaurants, and the club Marquee is a huge hit. The problem? This “curious class” isn’t at all curious about gambling! Which is having a significant impact on their bottom line. So much so, that they just hired an experienced Las Vegas hotel executive away from another property to help turn that situation around.

At the end of the day, you have to vote with your feet and play elsewhere. Which I know can be a very difficult concept if you are a comped gambler somewhere. They know you. They send you all those great offers. Other casinos may not.

My advice for people in those shoes? On your next trip, do half of your gambling at your usual place and do half of it at a “douche free” property that you enjoy (obviously using a players card so your play is tracked). Your normal property is unlikely to decrease your offers based on less play for just one trip, and you may be surprised at the offers you start to get from the new property you tried out.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

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!

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 21, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – We want to wish everybody a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and pleasant whatever-you-are-celebrating. Normally, we have a new photo from the Bellagio Gardens holiday display in the newsletter leading up to the 25’th, but we’ve been so busy, I haven’t even been over to see it this year! Rest assured, I have Christmas music playing in my office here.

This will be the final issue of 2011. With many reading at work (and not at work many days until the end of the year), this issue could be read at any time over the next 10 days.

The Lion King Comes To A Close – We’d like to thank The Lion King for being a long-time sponsor and helping us keep the lights on around here. It had a fantastic run in a town where shows can be fleeting. Some fun facts they sent us over:

When THE LION KING at Mandalay Bay ends…

  • The cast will have performed a total of 1,078 performances.
  • 1.4 million guests will have seen the show.
  • The cast will have participated in 2,000 rehearsals.
  • Makeup will have gone through 34,000 makeup remover wipes.
  • Scar will have spent more than 800 hours in the makeup chair.
  • Wardrobe will have spent 500 hours fitting cast members.
  • 17,000 hours will have been spent in the puppet workshop repairing and maintaining puppets.
  • Rafiki will have climbed Pride Rock more than 2,000 times and walked nearly 6,400 miles up and down since the first show.
  • Timon and Pumbaa will have said Hakuna Matata more than 38,000 times.

Las Vegas New Years Eve Fireworks Info and Insider Party Tips – We published this last year, but we’ve updated it including a recent news video. You can check it out and http://x.co/bxm1 and make sure to repost the link elsewhere if you find it helpful (or feel that others will)!

Coupons – We occasionally get asked if we put out a coupon book. Not at this time. Las Vegas if full of so many deals (we publish ones we find, and tweet those that don’t make deadline) and the problem with coupons is the time burn you spend chasing them. We recently noted that (on average) your time in Las Vegas is costing you over $15 per waking hour. Is it worth going out of your way for a $5-10 coupon (if that) on something that you otherwise probably wouldn’t have thought about seeing or doing?

As previously noted, we do plan to do an amazing job of aggregating all the deals and specials out there once we go to a paid subscriber model (which will allow us to hire someone for that daunting task). No coupons needed!

Don’t Believe It – Men’s Health just ranked Las Vegas as the 10’th “saddest” city in America. (St. Petersburg, FL worst, Honolulu was best). There of the big factors used were unemployment, use of antidepressants, and suicides. No question that people in Florida and Nevada are more “pilled up” than the norm. Doctors are quick to write scripts. Also, with the number of visitors and new residents (who find out that living here isn’t the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow), we’re going to have higher suicide numbers. On a related note…

Another “Great” Showing – Las Vegas ranks 136’th (out of 143 cities) for having the worst credit! Why I won’t toss that into the “blame the recession” basket? Las Vegan’s have always had terrible credit (as a whole). When I bought my first condo in 1995, I was told “Wow, you have really good credit. That is unusual here”.áThe average Las Vegan who uses credit owes just under $25,000. Best credit cities? Wausau-WI, Minneapolis-MN, and Madison-WI. Interestingly enough, all cities within 300 miles of each other.

Condo City – The median price of a condo in Las Vegas is a paltry $50,000. This will generally get you around 1000 sq. ft. and two bedrooms, two bathrooms in a decent area. (If you want to go high-rise on/near The Strip or downtown, you’ll looking at low six figures for a smaller one bedroom). Bring your wallet for the cheaper places. Getting a mortgage loan for a place under $50k is almost unheard of and about 90% of the closings are cash sales.

International Traffic WAY Up – October saw a 31% increase in international traffic to McCarran (Las Vegas) airport. As usual, no surprise to me. This year, the percentage of visitors to AccessVegas.com from outside the U.S. has gone up from 25% to 29%.

We know it is a hassle flying such long distances and having to deal with security and immigration. We appreciate you reading and appreciate your patronage. Overall traffic to the airport was up 5%. Among the domestic cities showing big gains sending visitors here? My hometown of Portland, OR. All visitor numbers continue to climb.

I’m Shocked! (Not) – The company that blew up The Frontier (across from Wynn) has announced they are scrapping plans to build a hotel there. As it is, the name of the property was going to be The Plaza (as in the New York City hotel). That alone shows how brainless these people were. Las Vegas already has a Plaza and at the time plans were originally announced, the downtown Plaza wasn’t a property you’d want a high-end hotel confused with. The Frontier was a dump in its latter years, but it was a fun dump. And much preferable to empty real estate with will stay that way for years to come.

Strip Clubs In Casinos – Yet another topic which I couldn’t address before as it would have gotten stuck in email filters. Rumblings have been heating up again about the option of putting strip clubs inside casino resorts. Casinos hate to see their customers walk out the door, and all that time and money spend at off-strip strip clubs adds up to money not spent on site.

I believe this is a bad idea all around. A significant amount of Vegas visitorship comes from “conservative” middle America. They (perhaps this is you) will have a few drinks and cut loose and perhaps aren’t a prude. But putting the “Sin City” image over the top may take the playful nature of the image one notch too far. Also, we have to think of our convention traffic. Does the wife really want the husband running off to a hotel that has a strip club in it? Let’s keep the strip clubs over in the industrial area behind the hotels where they belong.

The Las Vegas Line – When you read a sports page or watch sports programs here in the US, you’ll hear them say “Las Vegas likes Team A by 6 points over Team B”. Believe it or not, no one here in town sits down and figures out how much a team will win by. The betting line is actually determined by the betting public. For any given game, the sports books want to get an absolutely even amount of money bet of both sides. They want to see (for example) one million dollars bet on Team A and one million on Team B. Because they make you bet $11 to win $10, they simply want to sit back and give the losers’ money to the winners, pocketing that extra $1 on each $10 bet.

To get an even amount of money on each side, they set the line (which team is favored and by how much) to a point that will draw bets on both sides. If one team is perceived by the public to be better, the line will reflect that to get people betting on the underdog. Bet the “dog” on a game where the point spread is 6, and you automatically get 6 points added to that team’s score at the end of the game (for betting purposes… whether you “win” or not). Bet the favorite, and you need to subtract 6 points from your teams score at the end of the game.

Using our original example, if Team A wins by 3 points, they may win the game, but the bets on Team B are actually the winning bets. Because although they lost by 3, they got to add those 6 points on for betting purposes.

A Slot Machine Ate My Midlife Crisis – This darkly funny novel describes Wendy SinclairÆs spin-crazy life in Las Vegas after she impulsively decides to not return to Houston following a bizarre girls’ weekend in 2005. I’m a guy, so can’t say it is my cup of tea. But some of our female readers may want to check it out for their Vegas fix. Click over to A Slot Machine Ate My Midlife Crisis

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

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PBR, Menu, Miracle Mile Shops, Planet HollywoodPBR Rock Bar And Grill Introduces Savory New Menu Selections – Known for an extensive drink menu and an endless array of hearty American comfort food, PBR Rock Bar & Grill announces the introduction of several highly anticipated new menu items which include cocktails, breakfasts, appetizers, entrees and desserts that are sure to leave your mouth watering for more. The wide variety of new menu additions include sweet potato tater tots, a hearty chili cheeseburger and bloomin’ onion sliders served inside an onion ring with sautÚed onions, Swiss cheese, bacon and tomato on a warm onion roll.

Ring in the New Year at Miracle Mile Shops With Food and Drink Deals – Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve (Saturday, Dec. 31) and from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on New Year’s Day (Sunday, Jan. 1).

Venetian, Palazzo, HELP, charity, Adopt-A-FamilyThe Venetian and The Palazzo Give Back to HELP of Southern Nevada – In the true spirit of the season, Team Members from The Venetian and The Palazzo adopted 55 families through HELP of Southern NevadaÆs Adopt-A-Family program and donated more than 35 bikes. Please see attached photos of the Team Members with all of the donated gifts.

Old Homestead Steakhouse, Caesars PalaceOld Homestead Steakhouse’s Annabelle the Cow is now Welcoming Guests at Caesars Palace – Annabelle, Old Homestead Steakhouse’s celebrity cow, has completed her cross-country journey and was unveiled this morning at the new Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace. During her trek, the iconic brown and white cow visited several major U.S. landmarks including Times Square, the St. Louis Arch, the Lincoln Memorial, Mt. Rushmore and the Alamo. She also found time to visit her family in Nebraska on the farm where she grew up and do a little shopping in Chicago. Before being placed at the entrance of Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace, she made one last stop at the ”Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. Photo (L to R) Greg Sherry, Gary Selesner and Marc Sherry in front of Old Homestead Steakhouse.

Miracle Mile Shops Launches 2012 Caring, Giving, Changing Campaign With Fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals – Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino aims to raise more than $100,000 over the course of a year during its Caring, Giving, Changing campaign, which kicks off in January with a fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The year of Caring, Giving, Changing begins on January 1 with a month-long fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. All change tossed into Miracle Mile Shops’ fountain as well as the center’s indoor rainstorm will be donated to the children’s charity, which is dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children at its 170 member hospitals in North America.

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Both Members Mania and What We’re Watching (two very popular segments) will return in 2012. With the attention of most focused on family, friends, and the holidays, we’ve decided to keep this issue more brief than most.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

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