Category Archives: Las Vegas Newsletter

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 10, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Ted is on medical leave this week. We hope to have him back next week. Please enjoy this issue with all of the usual features prepared by staff including news of a great deal at one of Las Vegas’ historic hotel steak houses.

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

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

Jonas Brothers, Madonna, The Cheetah Girls, ColdPlay, Mary J. Blige, Neil Young, Michael Buble, Celine Dion, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Jersey Boys At The Palazzo Las Vegas Offers Patrons The Absolut Best Seats In The House – The best show in town just got better. JERSEY BOYS, the hit musical about Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, now offers the “Absolut Best Seats In The House” Package. (Tickets) Patrons who purchase theáAbsolut Best Seats In The House Package will receive a complimentary ABSOLUT specialty cocktail and access to a private entrance into the theatre through a VIP hallway that features memorabilia from The Four Seasons and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Mentalist Wins The Magic Oscar – Gerry McCambridge Wins The Prestigious Merlin Award – The International Magicians Society, a worldwide organization, which was established in 1968 and currently has over 37,000 members presented Gerry McCambridge with the prestigious “Merlin” award for Mentalist of the Decade. The Merlin Award to the magic fraternity is what the Oscar is to the movies. Some of the past winners of the Merlin Award are Harry Blackstone, Doug Henning, Criss Angel, Siegfried & Roy and David Copperfield. Since moving to Las Vegas three years ago, Gerry has been a strip headliner with over 550 Las Vegas performances to his credit. Hooters Casino Hotel recently extended his contract keeping him headlining in the Night Owl Showroom six nights a week for the next year. (Tickets) Click to Read The Full Story …

Trevi Italian Restaurant Features A Variety Of Homemade Pizzas – Hand-Tossed Pizzas At Trevi Brina A ‘Slice Of Italy’ To The Table – Guests can observe the art of making pizza in the open kitchen at TREVI Italian Restaurant at The Forum Shops at Caesars. The chefs have perfected hand-tossing the dough for the variety of pizzas to tempt every taste bud. From the homemade dough and sauce to the special recipe for sausage and roasted peppers, the pizzas are incomparable. “TREVI’s brick oven pizzas are made from homemade sauce, dough and fresh mozzarella,” said Pete Scaturro, executive chef for TREVI Italian Restaurant. “You won’t find pizza better than this. The brick oven pizzas taste better than any other because of the consistent temperature the oven holds.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Four Of Las Vegas’ Top Cantors To Perform With The Las Vegas Philharmonic In Celebration Of The Israel @ 60 Gala Concert – In honor of Israel’s 60th anniversary, the Las Vegas Philharmonic will celebrate with a gala concert on Sunday, October 12, 2008 at the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall. The Israel @ 60 celebration begins at 6:30 p.m. with a Kosher VIP reception; VIP tickets are $300 per person and include the reception and premium concert seating. The concert begins at 8 p.m. and ticket prices are $30, $60 and $90, on sale now. The Israel @ 60 concert will feature special performances by world-renowned mezzo-soprano Eugenie Grunewald, tenor Nathan Brian Wine, clarinetist Shelley Hanson, The Adelson Educational Campus Choir and four of the city’s top cantors. Click to Read The Full Story …

House Of Lords At The Sahara Now Offering $75 Dusk & Dark Dinner For Two – One Of The Great Las Vegas Vintage Steakhouses – The legendary House of Lords Steak House at the Sahara Hotel & Casino is challenging the belief that Vegas fine dining has to break the bank. The Sahara now offers a special $75 Dusk & Dark Dinner for Two, which includes a first course, a main course and dessert: FIRST COURSE – Organic Green Salad: Organic farm greens, candied walnuts, roma tomatoes, sweet onion, goat cheese with champagne vinaigrette OR Sweet Lobster Corn Chowder. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

California from $38, Fremont from $38, Gold Coast from $29, Main Street from $38, Orleans from $50, Sam’s Town from $29, Sun Coast from $50, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

September 10, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 3, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We hope everyone in the U.S. and Canada had a great Labor Day weekend. Las Vegas was packed like we probably have not seen all year and some clouds kept the temperatures generally under 100 degrees (F).

With college and pro football (U.S.) underway and the baseball playoff races heating up, the sports books are full of people living and dying on every play.

We appreciate your patience on our (still) somewhat erratic publishing schedule due to business expansion. Rest assured, we publish three times per month (as always) but not exactly every 10 days at the moment.

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

tropicana las vegas pool mint mondays 2008

Mint Mondays continue at Tropicana Las Vegas through the end of September. They are drawing a nice mix of locals and visitors, and billing themselves as an unpretentious pool party that everyone can enjoy. See our August 6, 2008 newsletter issue for more details.

harrahs carnival court 2008

harrahs carnival court 2008

Despite the August heat, Harrah’s Carnival Court drew plenty of partiers on Mondays to enjoy local favorites Yellow Brick Road.

Links to new photo sets:

Your Favorite Team’s Local Bar – The Review-Journal just published their list of various bar/grills around town that are devoted to a specific NFL team. These bars only show “their” NFL team during game times and offer food and drink specials during the game.

You can always watch the game in a crowded sports book (with the chance that the sound for your team is turned down), but if you have a car and want to root with locals who are probably from your part of the country, this is the list to check out: Local bars compete to win over fans with food and drink specials, giveaways

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

California from $38, Fremont from $38, Gold Coast from $29, Main Street from $38, Orleans from $50, Sam’s Town from $29, Sun Coast from $50, , More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Help Stop Hunger in Southern Nevada, Dine Out in September – In the tradition of Restaurant Week in cities such as New York, San Francisco and Chicago, Las Vegas’ most popular restaurants will join forces for a week of affordable fine dining September 1-7 in an effort to stop hunger. Las Vegas Restaurant Week will offer world-class cuisine at very special pricing with a portion of the proceeds going to Three Square (www.threesquare.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to ending hunger in Las Vegas. More than 60 restaurants are offering three-course menus for just $25.08 and $50.08 per person.

Participating award-winning fine dining establishments include L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Craftsteak, NOBHILL, Aureole, Fleur de Lys, CatHouse, miXáLas Vegas, Japonais, BLT Burger, StripSteak and Isla Mexican Kitchen, to name just a few.

Chocolate fountain at Bellagio Official World Record Set By Jean Philippe Patisserie’s Chocolate Fountain At Bellagio – Displaying a spectacular series of melted chocolate cascades, Jean Philippe Patisserie’s glass-enclosed, floor-to-ceiling chocolate fountain at Bellagio is officially the largest chocolate fountain in the world as certified by Guinness World Records. The fountain’s official record-breaking height is 26 feet, 3 and 3/16 inches; the masterpiece circulates nearly two tons of melted dark, milk and white chocolate at a rate of 120 quarts per minute. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: No Limit Texas Hold’em – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the sixth of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: No Limit Texas Hold’em (broadband)

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

The Cheetah Girls, ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Celine Dion, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Journey, Tina Turner, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I’m traveling from the UK in December and will be in Vegas from 30’th of December for 3 nights.

I am a little worried that things are not going to be open. IE Shopping etc. I also want to book a table for New Years Eve and also for the 30th as this is my wedding anniversary. Do you have any suggestions.Nadia Dukic

á

Ted Responds:

Happy upcoming anniversary! New Years Eve is the biggest time of the year here. Everything will be open! News about hotel events and parties won’t be out until later in the year. Let me again note for readers who might be new:

The biggest question we get is “I’m coming to Las Vegas (insert date many months in advance) and want to know if (insert name of headliner or events) will be playing”.

The very reason we do this regular newsletter is to get ALL of the information we receive out as often as possible. If something is not yet listed, we simply don’t have any information on it yet.áOne emailer even wanted to know when a touring band would be coming to Las Vegas… even though the band hand not even announced their tour dates for any city yet!

We aren’t sitting here hiding a pile of from you. We get everything out as soon as possible.

My husband and I were ‘long hauled’ while in Vegas this week. A trip from the airport to the Stratosphere ran almost $35. Had we not been exhausted at the time, having traveled from the East Coast, I would have reported it or at least complained. Which made us wonder…would it have made any difference?

I know these type of complaints are on the rise, but are they taken seriously? Would the driver have been reprimanded, or would we have been entitled to a refund? Love the newsletter. Thank you.

Tina from New York

Ted Responds:

Yes, it would have mattered and yes, the drivers get in trouble. And, I’m very sorry to hear it happened.

You can call the Taxicab Authority at (702) 668-4000 and tell them the cab company name and either the cab number (number on the side of the cab) or drivers name which should be visible on his permit posted in the car. Drivers who get more multiple complaints are subject to fines and other measures of discipline.

At the very least… if you KNOW you got long-hauled: Do NOT tip the driver. You are (by law) entitled to ALL of your change back, down to the nickel. Demand it and let him (or her) know why there is no tip. Side Note: I’d suggest waiting until they have off-loaded your bags or anything else, something which there is otherwise no extra fee for.

A few years ago, I actually took things farther when I was long-hauled. I said that one of two things were going to happen: 1. I was not going to pay for the ride or 2. I was going to pay then call the TA (Taxicab Authority) and report him. My ride ended up free.

Don’t feel bad playing hardball or even calling a report in. If you had $10 sitting on your slot machine and someone just came along and grabbed it, wouldn’t you be calling for security and wanting them to track down the thief? It is no different if a cabbie long-hauls you to rack up an extra $10 (or more) in cab fare.

The Taxicab Authority has a great (must read) FAQ on all aspects of Las Vegas cabs at http://www.taxi.state.nv.us/Forms/DidYouKnow.pdf

Back in May/June I read somewhere that HooterÆs was being sold. I was wondering if you had any info on what has happened to that transaction. Did it fall through?

I am curious as we are staying there 8/22 for 2 nights for our nephewÆs 21’st birthday. Our first stay was last Thanksgiving & we had a lovely stay in one of the Bungalow rooms and we would like to stay there again this Thanksgiving.

I enjoy AccessVegas.com newsletter very much. Thank you.

Shannon from Costa Mesa, CA

Ted Responds:

We did have a news blurb on that a few months ago. The sale fell through due to the trouble obtaining financing in the present economy. Hooters is operating as normal and has even opened a country music themed bar called Dixie’s with live music and no cover.

Thanks for reading and telling your friends!

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

September 3, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 20, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We are on a weird publication schedule for the next few weeks until we finish out all the new areas of Access Vegas. Can’t wait to show it all to you… I guarantee you that no other Las Vegas site will be as fun or helpful.

Binion’s $1,000,000 Display Returns… Kind Of – For decades, Binion’s Hotel Casino downtown was famous for (among other things) an display of 100 $10,000 bills available for public viewing 24/7 near their coffee shop. They even took a complimentary photo of you with the display and if you are a long time visitor, you probably have one (or more) stuffed away somewhere.

The new display is a pyramid of stacks of bills ranging from $100 bills to $1 bills and is available for viewing from 10 AM to 10 PM (no complimentary photo but you can take your own). The old display would cost some $16 million to assemble again because $10,000 bills are out of circulation and worth many times face value. You think at least they could make the new display available 24/7. There was nothing like coming out of the Binion’s coffee shop after enjoying their $2/$3/$4 complete steak dinner (depending on the year) at 3 AM and just walking over in front of the old display to stare in amazement.

Visitors To Pay For Schools – Despite the fact that growth in Southern Nevada has pretty much come to a standstill (and families are packing up and leaving), the move to raise the room tax from 10 to 13% to fund education continues to roll on. You are already paying a new tax when you rent a car so a new performing arts center can be built downtown.

Look… the last thing we need to do is make rooms more expensive when it costs so much to get here. And per the performing arts center, why on earth do we need one of those? A handful of powerful, long time local leaders seem bent on us getting some culture. We’ve never exactly been a culture capital, and frankly have don’t need to be.

Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places – A recent newspaper article noted that the Las Vegas area has 30,000 more single men than single women. The city draws men who are looking for new economic opportunity or in male dominated fields like construction. So a great situation for women? Not necessarily. Men who are transient (construction) or who are looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow don’t always make the best catches. A significant number of local singles are here for a few years, not looking to put down roots. Looking for fun? There is no better city. Looking for love? Move to a more traditional city.

Dreaming Nevada – If you have Netflix (or a similar service), put the Dreaming Nevada DVD in your queue. This stunning visual journey takes you on helicopter rides over our area scenic wonders including Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and The Strip. Highly recommended!

Enjoy our Barry Manilow review this week. Regular show reviews and new photo sets return mid-September.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Eddie Vedder, Journey, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Barry Manilow Writes The Songs, Performs With Passion In Las Vegas

by Erika Bayer-Polak

Who hasn’t sung Barry Manilow’s “Copacabana” at some point or another? Well, if you generally only sing the song in the shower or car because you’re too uncomfortable letting the general public, or certain loved ones, know your true fondness for the tune, imagine being able to sing it unabashedly with about 1,600 other people. Yes, it can be quite a feeling.

Manilow’s show, “Manilow: Music and Passion,” is more than a concert, it is a true Las Vegas show with dancing and sets and boas and all of those Las Vegas-themed props that come to mind. Considering many of Manilow’s hits have been somewhat mellow tunes, the show is surprisingly up-beat and energetic. While he still sings his universally known crooner melodies, such as, “Mandy,” “I Write the Songs” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” among others, he manages to keep the pace of the show lively.

Click to Read Entire Barry Manilow: Music and Passion Las Vegas Review…

Golden Nugget Las Vegas Partners With Professional Bull Riders World Finals Competition – The Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino announced that it has signed a partnership with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Built Ford Tough World Finals (Tickets) presented by Wrangler, whose 2008 competition runs Oct. 31 through Nov. 9 at the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ Thomas and Mack Center. In the agreement, Golden Nugget will be a host hotel for the PBR World Finals and will provide contestant accommodations and host rider meet and greets and official PBR events. It also will offer special PBR ticket and hotel packages. Click to Read The Full Story …

PT’s And Sierra Gold Serve As The Ultimate College Football Destination – PT’s and Sierra Gold celebrate the kick-off of the college football season with food and drink specials at each location. For the third year in a row, each of the 36 tavern locations will represent specific college teams for Saturday and game day viewing. During college games PT’s will feature the PT’s Bucket, complete with a choice of wings or sliders for only $16.99. In addition, Bud and Bud Light pints will be available for $2.50 each and 25 oz. mugs for $3.50 each. Sierra Gold will also feature the Sierra Gold Bucket with choice of wings or sliders for only $16.99. Bud and Bud Light pints are on tap for $2.75 and 25 oz. mugs for $4. Click to Read The Full Story …

Larry G Jones’ ‘Superstar Voices In Concert’ Teams Up With Top ‘Red Skelton Impersonator’ – The Voices Of Billboards Greatest Hits – Las Vegas’ greatest shows combine with legendary comedy to make one hilarious family friendly show. (Tickets) After over 1600 shows in downtown Las Vegas, Larry G Jones takes his talents a bit closer to the action and ‘down the block’ from Las Vegas’ two singing impressionists with 100 million dollar deals (Terry Fator and Danny Gans). ‘Superstar Voices in Concert’ will be hosted by Red Skelton look-alike and tribute artist, Brian Hoffman. Larry’s new show venue is very easy to find, once you know where to look. The Royal Resort Hotel at 99 Convention Center Drive (100 ft from Las Vegas Blvd) is one block from the Wynn and Riviera Casinos. Click to Read The Full Story …

Canyon Ranch Grill Opens In The Palazzo – Organic Food And Beverage Menu Brings Healthy, Vibrant Flavors To Canyon Ranch SpaClub – Canyon Ranch Grill is now open inside the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, located on the pool level of the Palazzo Resort and Casino. Guests of the Canyon Ranch Grill will experience a nourishing menu featuring wholesome, seasonal fresh ingredients with an emphasis on local, organic and sustainable farming methods. Chefs of the famed Canyon Ranch Spa, have expertly prepared a menu including breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert dishes designed to complement and enhance the natural beauty of the ingredients resulting in vibrant flavors, enticing aroma and superior nutritional value. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Long Twins Join The Cast Of The Legendary Folies Bergere At The Tropicana – Highly accomplished acrobatic performers, Bing and Jun Long, join the cast of the Folies Bergere (Tickets) at the Tropicana Las Vegas as the Long Twins, one of two variety acts in the show. Juggler/comedian, Michael Holly, continues drawing laughs from audiences as the second variety act in the production show. The Long Twins, recognized as first class acrobats throughout China, bring their talented and entertaining act to the Tiffany Theatre stage as part of a six-minute act in Folies Bergere. The duo has performed as part of several production shows up and down the Las Vegas Strip. Click to Read The Full Story …

Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel To Open August 28 – Latest Cannery Casino Resorts Property To Open Despite Tough Economy, Industry-Wide Slowdown – Despite a nationwide slowdown in the gaming industry, Cannery Casino Resorts (CCR) will open its second casino in little more than a year û the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel û on Thursday, August 28. The first major casino to open on the east side of Las Vegas in more than a decade, will officially welcome guests at 8 p.m. Located in the Boulder Highway gaming corridor, the $250 million Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel features a 16-story tower of bronze, glass and steel, with a distinctive saw-tooth roofline, making an iconic impression. Click to Read The Full Story …

Global Ice Age Begins As Minus 5 Brings Unique Ice Lounge Experience To Las Vegas And Other U.S. Cities – World-Leader in Sub-Zero Night-Life Freezes the Competition with Lounges Made Entirely of Ice. A lounge in which everything is made of ice is about to become the hottest destination in the United States; and, the forecast calls for Las Vegas, known for its 100-degree heat, to become a whole lot cooler – as cold as ice. This September, New Zealand-based Minus 5 Group begins an American ice age when it opens the first permanent ice lounge experience ever in the United States at Mandalay Place, located adjacent to Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the famous Las Vegas Strip. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Previous Reader Question Answered:

In our August 6, 2008 issue, reader Brian from Ocala, Florida asked why some casinos will have empty $10-15 tables while the place next door has jammed $5 tables. IE, why wouldn’t the other casino lower their limits to fill up their tables?

I heard the answer listening to the audio of a gaming executives round-table recently. The higher-end casinos don’t want to encourage $5 players. They feel the cost of the comps (high-end free drinks and similar that you’ll find in the nicer places) exceed what they would win from the players.

I still question this: Adjusted for inflation, todays $5 tables are the $3 games of 10 years ago. And, you could generally get an import beer or mid-level brand booze while you play.

I’ll stick to what I’ve said before: Today’s bean counters think that if you just make gambling fun (party pits and endless new slot machines), you won’t care how fast you lose your money. Their goal is to separate you from it as quickly as possible.á

I think they have it wrong (and the declines in gaming wins bare this out… it’s not just the economy, especially considering the rate of international visitors at this time). The fun of gambling is taking your days bankroll and (provided that it is enough to sustain such play) be able to gamble 3-4 hours per day. It is the gambling in and of itself that is fun. The roller coaster of emotions and the thrill of having a few winning streaks (which enforce the notion that you actually have a chance at winning).

Your best current “gamble” in Las Vegas? See a show. You’ll get your moneys worth in just about every price range, you’ll see shows in special theatres and set-ups here that you won’t experience in the traveling version (for example, Phantom or Blue Man), and you are guaranteed the full length of your entertainment. You won’t go broke 10 minutes into a show and have to leave like a cold table or slot machine.

Hi Ted,

A while back, I asked you for a recommendation for a nice place for a little cocktail lounge atmosphere for guys my age (I’m 67 and still enjoy Las Vegas even though the rat pack days are long gone…now, those guys were cool!).

You obviously knew exactly the kind of place I was looking for, because you suggested the bar/lounge of The Range Steakhouse at Harrah’s. As you pointed out, it’s up above the strip and yet it’s like a world apart from the chaotic strip atmosphere. But, I could look out and see it from the unique vantage point of a pleasant ambiance I appreciate most. The pianist and jazz guitarist were excellent and provided a great background for my wind-down time before dinner and a show I was going to see that evening.

I had other plans for dinner that night, but a look at the menu convinced me that I should get back in there the next time I’m in town.

I also found that Bellagio’s Baccarat Lounge also offers perfect place to unwind and listen to some good jazz, too. It’s right on the “main drag” in the casino, but due to some great acoustical engineering magic, the noise of slots, etc. are greatly reduced and the music can be heard very well. David Osborne plays piano there on Sunday and Monday nights, accompanied by a fine stand-up bass player.

For people my age, La Vegas is still a fun destination, because while there, we can also enjoy a different brand of entertainment in addition to the kind of stuff the younger kids like. Sometimes, loud, “in-your-face” rock gets tedious (even though our generation started the whole thing!)

Anyway, thanks for the tip about The Range Steakhouse! I always read your newsletter. You’re doing a great job! Keep it up!

Sincerely,

David from McKinleyville, CA

Hi there, love the newsletter and it helped so much with my planning. To travel 14 hours with the purpose of two weeks in Las Vegas required LOTS of planning and shows, times, places to visit, all found within the newsletter.

The first priority was to book and see Wayne Brady – the VIP way with the meet and greet – see pic – he didn’t let me down, It was wonderful, he was gracious and the show was unbelievable. This alone was worth the trip.

Next was the place to stay we we picked the Jockey Club – aware there was building around it but choose it for a smaller hotel without the casino. Just a room and friendly and helpful staff. Again perfect – look at my view from the loungeroom – day or night – the fountains , Paris the strip, it was the best.

All other plans fitted into place from the Car Museum at Imperial Palace to the Mentalist at Hooters, nothing disappointed us unless it was that we ‘ran out’ of time. Next time it has to be 3 -4 weeks to do all we want.

Thank you for all your information and my friends who head there next week have more info from me as well now.

Karen Chatfield from Australia

á

Ted Responds:

I never cease to appreciate those of you who travel so far to get here (whether 4 hours or especially 14 hours) and enjoy Las Vegas. I’m so very happy that you had a great time and that our newsletter helps in that planning. I especially encourage our international readers to tell their friends to subscribe. When traveling that far and spending that much, you really should have the latest, best and most comprehensive regular information and the price is right: Free!

From time-to-time, someone will write and just say “I have not been to town for two years, what should I see?” The truth is that you could easily spend 3-4 weeks here and barely begin to see everything you want to check out. Whether your next trip is 3 days or three weeks (or not yet planned), stay subscribed and we’ll leave you no shortage of information about shows and activities so you can find the ones that suit you.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

August 20, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 13, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

Did You Know:

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

á

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

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

á

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

Cheers

M&B Kieth

á

Ted Responds:

Here’s some food for thought:

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

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

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

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

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

Hi Ted!

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

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

Linda and Rich

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and telling your friends to subscribe!

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

Sincerely,

Joan Cornell from Illinois

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 6, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

M Resort Casino Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

By Mara M. Mannella

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

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

Thanks,á

Brian from Ocala, Florida

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

Thanks,

Jim

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Joan Cornell from Illinois

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks,

Tracey from Cumbria, England

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 30, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

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

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 16, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orleans Hotel Casino Las Vegas Nevada
View Orleans Las Vegas Photos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

by Nicole “Niko” Acevedo

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

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

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

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

by DW Grant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted,

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

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

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

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

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

S. Brickey

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

Hi Ted,

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

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

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

Marsha from Auburn Hills, Michigan

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

Dear Ted,

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

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

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

Thank You,

Roy Winkelman

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 9, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fremont Street Downtown Hotels

Fremont Street Experience Downtown Las Vegas

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

by Devon Brooke Clasen

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

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

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

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

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

by Lincoln Hudson

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

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

Click to Read X Burlesque Las Vegas Review…

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

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

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

The Kinneys,

Pleasant Garden, NC

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John M. Kacvinsky

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

Per the city or casinos subsidizing flights:

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

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

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 2, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas Strip atop Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

by Sarah Steinberg

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

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

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

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

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

By Devon Brooke Clasen

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

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

Click to Read Stripper 101 Las Vegas Review…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jerry from Vero Beach Florida

á

Ted Responds:

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

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

Al

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

Thanks for the newsletter I enjoy that as well.

Christopher Kujawa

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

Clearnce from Garden City, KS

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 25, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

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

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

by Mark Marino

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

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

Click to Read Entire Blue Man Group Las Vegas Review…

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

by Erika Bayer-Polak

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

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

Click to Read Entire Gordie Brown Las Vegas Review…

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page 51 of 55
1 … 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55