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Access Vegas Insider Vibe û September 30, 2009
AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe
Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999
Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.
AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:
Las Vegas Essentials |
Featured ShowsPhotos and Wallpaper
|
Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:
Hello From Las Vegas! A “cold and windy” Las Vegas as I write this on Wednesday afternoon (with the Hawaii/La. Tech game on ESPN). The thermometer outside is reading 72 degrees F. Yes… after 16 years here, that feels COLD to me! Temperatures are expected to hover around the 80 degree mark the next 10 days or so, nice and balmy.
We’re Expanding! – My comments will be brief today as I’ve been knee-deep in the acquisition and expansion process for us to enter a number of new cities. We’ve secured the ownership of:
- AccessReno.com
- AccessLaughlin.com
- AccessBiloxi.com
- AccessAtlanticCity.com
- AccessPhoenix.com
(sites are not yet active and/or are undergoing major upgrades under our tutelage and do not currently reflect our plans or design)
It’s Good To Be Me – Have you ever thought that my job sounds fun? We’re planning to launch a bi-weekly newsletter for each city and looking for help. If you are a regular visitor (or better yet a resident) of Reno, Laughlin, Biloxi, Atlantic City or Phoenix who is in touch with the latest “what to do and see” and would be interested in doing a “Newkirk’s Notes” type column every other week in a newsletter for your city, please contact us at allvegastv@aol.com so we can further discuss it.
All of the news gathering and other newsletter aspects would be handled by our staff. We are simply looking for someone to write the opening few paragraphs for each issue plus a couple of “Members Mania” readers questions answered in each issue.
Don’t Be That Guy – I got a kick out of the article The 10 Most Annoying Passengers, As Told by a Flight Attendant. Flight Attendants have a lot of latitude regarding what they can do to make your trip more enjoyable (including sometimes sneaking you a first-class goody or re-seating you if you end up next to the crying baby or someone’s knees constantly in your seat-back). I especially likes this Bonus Tip: Bring any kind of candy for a crew member, and you are pretty much getting special treatment from that point on. We always remember those nice folks toward the back who brought us some Hershey’s Kisses …
Speaking Of Flying – Check out this Top Ten Airlines Most Likely to Be Delayed on the Tarmac article which lists the airlines most likely to have flight delays lasting more than three hours. Sometimes it might be worth it to pay a few more bucks and travel on a carrier that is less delayed.
I should be back in full force next week. We make this look easy, but prepping to launch into multiple new cities really chewed up some time. As always, this issue is still packed with tons of Vegas stuff you need to know.
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 $39, El Cortez from $26, Fitzgeralds from $20, Hooters from $25, Orleans from $30, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $20, Stratosphere from $25, Tropicana from $30, Tuscany from $19, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!
Lesnar Faces ‘Biggest’ Test To Date Against Colossus Carwin At UFC 106 At Mandalay Bay Saturday, Nov. 21 – Brock Lesnar has faced some of the best heavyweight fighters in the world. The Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight title holder dominated seasoned veteran Heath Herring and put away former UFC champions Randy Couture and Frank Mir. On Saturday, Nov. 21, Lesnar will have to pick on someone his own size when he takes on the undefeated 6-foot-3, 262-pound top contender Shane Carwin at UFC 106: LESNAR vs. CARWIN live from the Mandalay Bay Events Center. One of the brightest stars in UFC history also will return as former light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz battles UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman in what promises to be a war of epic proportions.
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Click to read full Lesnar Faces ‘Biggest’ Test To Date Against Colossus Carwin At UFC 106 story.
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UFC 106 Las Vegas Tickets
Viva Pink’s Vegas! – Heavyweight Champs And Hollywood Hotties Help Launch Pink’s Hot Dogs Las Vegas At Planet Hollywood Resort Casino – Pink’s Hot Dogs hosted a knock-out grand opening in Las Vegas tonight, as actresses and athletes graced the pink carpet to mark the opening of the Las Vegas location of the legendary Los Angeles hot dog joint. Celebrities in attendance included model and actress, Kim Kardashian, PEEPSHOW star Holly Madison, former Spice Girl Mel B., boxing stars Tommy “Hitman” Hearns and James “Lights Out” Toney, and Las Vegas entertainer Frank Marino, who appeared in drag as Joan Rivers.
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Click to read full Pink’s Vegas Opens At Planet Hollywood Resort Casino story.
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Peepshow Las Vegas Tickets
Las Vegas Deals
- Mayor Goodman Honors PT’s As The Taverns Celebrate 27 Years In Las Vegas Plus Free Drinks At 9 PM October 2 2009
- Check Out The Great Budget-Friendly Late Night Dining Specials At The South Point!
- DonÆt Miss The Springs Preserve 2009 Haunted Harvest Halloween Festivities!
These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:
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Bookmark and Visit EasyVegasDeals.com daily (Monday – Friday) or
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Enter http://www.easyvegasdeals.com/feed/ into your RSS feed list (for those of you who use RSS/XML feeds) or
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Follow our Twitter feed at http://twitter.com/accessvegas
Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!
As someone who has just made the move to Las Vegas, I would say that your recommendations are spot-on. We made many trips, and took over a year, to finally find the house we wanted.
I would add one caveat — avoid the short sales. In a short sale, all the power lies with the bank and seller. You have no rights. We had to back out of one short sale that gave us a lot of headaches.
Keep up the good work!
Glen Frederiksen
Ted Responds:
Glad to be of help! While we will never let this newsletter turn into a real estate newsletter, we know that many regular visitors monitor our market with the thought of buying a vacation home here (or even making the permanent move). Between my length of time living here and my family’s background in home building, I’d like to think that I carry a pretty good read of the market.
Do you know if there are any day tours to Red Rock Canyon, similar to the ones to Laughlin. We aren’t interested in renting a car to travel out of the city.
Thanks for any info you can give me.
Linda
Ted Responds:
There are but they start at about $65 per person, making it cheaper to rent a car. Car rentals are available at many hotels including The Flamingo.
If you still want a guided tour, we suggest the following:
By the way, don’t confuse the drive to Laughlin with the drive to Red Rock. Red Rock Canyon literally sits on the edge of Las Vegas, about 30 minutes from The Strip in traffic. Las Vegas Strip to Red Rock Canyon Google Map. Laughlin is indeed almost two hours (depending on traffic).
My friend and I will be in Las Vegas for my 35’th birthday Jan. 2010 for a week (I take my birthday preparations very seriously). As we are traveling from Scotland, I have bee trying to find alternative means to flying from LA to Vegas but I’m coming up seriously short. I found a coach that costs $88 and takes almost 5 hours, but we can fly for half that price and half that time.
Are there inexpensive ways to travel between Las Vegas and LA?
Cheers,
Trey from Edinburgh
Ted Responds:
Nothing wrong with planning ahead! International travelers often plan months in advance because coming to the West Coast of the U.S. is a big trip.
Very few people take a bus from L.A. to Vegas. Flying is very popular and (as you found out) not overly expensive. You could always rent a car if you want to make the drive, but there honestly isn’t much to see once you get outside of the L.A. area. If you want to see some truly amazing Desert Southwest scenery, check out Red Rock Canyon once you get here.
Plus, when on vacation, time is money. I’d just fly. Get here quick and get the fun started!
Love your newsletter! We enjoyed our recent trip to Vegas and still say Wynn is the best place to stay… Encore is beautiful too. We like the size of these hotels better than the huge casinos. The restaurants are fabulous. Wish I had better luck on the slots like I used to many years ago; However, Vegas is still fun and one of a kind.
Sara from Houston
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
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Steve Miller Band at The Joint
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Sahara Comedy Stop Welcomes Phil Palisou, Mitchell Walters And Jackson Perdu
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LPGA Star Natalie Gulbis To Play In Championship Pro-Am At The Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals For Children Open
Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals For Children Open Tickets
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Football Frenzy ’09 Takes Over Hawaiian Tropic Zone
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Catch Great Football Action And Game Day Specials At The El Cortez Hotel & Casino
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M Resort Spa Casino Kicks-Off Weekly Football Viewing Parties This Sunday, Sept. 13
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CityCenter’s Aria And Vdara First Las Vegas Hotels To Achieve Leed« Gold Certification
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Vegas Music Summit Brings Free Education For Bands And Those Interested In The Music Business
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Ricardo’s First Restaurant In Nevada To Offer “Pay At The Table” Technology
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Country Music Power House Sammy Kershaw To Perform At Stoney’s On The Strip
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World Extreme Cagefighting Announces Featherweight Title Fight WEC Presents: Brown vs. Aldo
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‘King of Romance’ Engelbert Humperdinck Returns To The Orleans Showroom October 15-18
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Legends Of The Game Memorabilia Show To Be Held At Palms Casino Resort
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Monday Night Football at First Food & Bar Features Drink And Menu Specials, No Cover And An F’in Good Time
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Budweiser Presents Monday Pigskin Parties At South Point
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Monday Nights at Bourbon Street Lounge
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Palms Monday Football Giveaways
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Hooters Hotel shows offer lowbrow fun with comedy, beefcake
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Things are going Holly Madison’s way
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‘Sin City Comedy’ mixes stand-up jokes with retro-sexy burlesque
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Phantom Fans Show Off – Convention attracts ‘crazy’ followers
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Unemployment soars to record 13.2 percent (with video)
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Las Vegas Economy: When Will it Bounce Back? (with video)
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Jobless rate nearly doubles from ’08 to ’09 (with video)
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Nevada Ranks Poorly on Stimulus Spending (with video)
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Mayor Goodman flirting with run for governor (with video)
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Businesses May See Huge Tax Increase (with video)
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Travelers from abroad get passport kiosks in Vegas
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Las Vegas-Anaheim maglev train proposal to finally receive federal funds
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Las Vegas clubs get slapped for bad behavior
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North Vegas approves Kiel Ranch plan, not money
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Celebrity visitors set Pure apart from other Vegas clubs
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When Sizzler shut it doors, ex-employees cooked up Dessy B’s Steakhouse
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Formerly Laid Off Workers Reopen Melting Pot
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Construction workers worried about end of CityCenter project
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Casino Operator Penn in Talks to Acquire Fontainebleau Las Vegas
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Dart throwers on the mark in Vegas
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Is the MagLev Train to Las Vegas a Ghost Train?
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Vegas aims to cash in on MGMÆs CityCenter
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Rockers Slash, Love, join others for Mirage’s 20th
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Vegas getting tough on nightclub antics
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Live Long & Prosper In Las Vegas
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Construction Industry Future Cloudy
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How One Giant Casino Could Turn Around Vegas
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Wayne Newton Back for Limited Run on Vegas Strip
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If Las Vegas Is a Foodie’s Heaven, Raku Is One of the Pearly Gates
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Organizers cancel 2010 CineVegas Film Festival
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Motley Crue’s Vince Neil offers a grub hangout for old school rockers
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World Market Center officials talk expansion as fall attendance tops expectations
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Convention industry looks for way to attract visitors
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Rebuilding Las Vegas – Diversify, diversify, diversify
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Celebrity visitors set Pure apart from other Vegas clubs
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‘Sgt. Pepper Live’ does justice to celebrated Beatles album
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No check-in flying? Believe it
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Route rules for mobile billboards sought
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Jobless rate jumps in Nevada, Las Vegas
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Lounge trying old-school approach
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Former ‘La Cage’ star Marino takes the reins with his own show
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Strip hotels eager to attract local and visiting gay, lesbian customers
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Firefly owner aims to give late-night diners new option
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Jackson tribute is a thriller show
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Officials dedicate 112-acre addition to Wetlands Par
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Old Vegas vibe gets new life
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CityCenter condo prices may be lowered before completion
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George Knapp decides to stay home: KLAS
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New homes back in play for Las Vegas buyers
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A new Elvis has entered the scene
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Remodeled Gold Spike’s goal is quality food at good value
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:
- Halloween October 31
- Veteran’s Day November 11
- Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
- Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
- Christmas December 25
- New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
- Super Bowl Sunday February 7
- Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
- President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
- Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
- Valentine’s Day February 14
- Mardi Gras February 16
- Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
- St. Patrick’s Day March 17
- Easter Sunday April 4
- Cinco de Mayo May 5
- Mother’s Day May 9
- Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
- Father’s Day June 20
- Independence Day July 4
- Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
- Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
- Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
- Jewish New Year September 9
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 2009 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication
September 30, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy
Access Vegas Insider Vibe û September 17, 2009
AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe
Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999
Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.
AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:
Las Vegas Essentials |
Featured ShowsPhotos and Wallpaper
|
Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:
Hello From Las Vegas! Well… I goofed when I predicted the end of 100 degree (F) temps a couple of weeks ago. We’ve continued to see higher-than-average warmth, but it finally appears we’ll settle into our 95/65 (high/low) days for the next 2-3 weeks. Perfect. Never too hot, never too cold no matter what time of the day or night you enjoy being on the Las Vegas Strip!
Planet Harrah’swood – Harrah’s (the company) is buying up Plant Hollywood’s debt in what looks to be a play to take over ownership of the hotel. Planet Hollywood is (to put it simply) having trouble meeting debt payment deadlines. This would give Harrah’s yet another contiguous property (Rio, Caesars, Harrah’s, Imperial Palace, Flamingo, Bills, Bally’s, Paris) in addition to the sizable amount of land they control behind their properties on the east side of The Strip.
Are You Ready For Some Football? – Every year, the Review-Journal publishes a list of local bars that are loyal to one particular NFL team. These are bars that show ONLY the game of their selected team on every single screen during each and every game that team plays. In addition, most have food and drink specials during the game.
If you are a transplant who is looking for like-minded fans or a visitor who would like to watch the game in the company of “home-towners” from your area, check out the list at Local team bars ready to cheer a new season – Establishments offering food, drink specials
Rehab: Party At The Hard Rock – I can’t remember if I’ve previously mentioned this, but it’s a great excuse to sneak a “fun in the sun” photo in here. The Hard Rock’s infamous Sunday “Rehab” pool party is in its second year of being filmed for a TV reality show. It now airs Tuesday nights on TruTV (formerly Court TV). I’d simply set your DVR to record every show and you’ll be caught up in no time!
Are You Getting Our Tweets? – If you subscribe to our newsletter but aren’t following our Twitter account, you are missing plenty. Yes, we stuff this newsletter with great info we get during the week. HOWEVER, even more info comes in that either expires before deadline or that we simply don’t have room for here. Two ways you can go about it:
- If you have a twitter account, follow us at http://twitter.com/accessvegas
- If you don’t have a twitter account, you can
- Follow our twitter RSS/XML feed http://twitter.com/statuses/user_timeline/15141089.rss (if you use those feeds) or
- Simply bookmark http://twitter.com/accessvegas and check it daily.
Sleeping On The Plane? – If you are like me, I simply rarely have ever been able to sleep on an airplane. With so many of you flying so many hours to see us (especially with our significant international readership), we know that many of you face this issue. I recently found a great article Shut-eye on the red-eye – First-class tips for sleeping on airplanes with tons of helpful tips!
Wedding Professionals – Our friend Richard Markel is hosting a huge event for anyone and everyone in the wedding business September 22-24, 2009. If this is your industry, not too late to sign up and write-off a trip to Las Vegas. Attendees are coming from all over the world! More info at http://www.weddingmba.com
School Enrollment Dropping? – According to the Review-Journal, it appears that Clark County (Las Vegas) school district enrollment will be dropping for the first time since 1983. The drop is very slight, and the statistic keeps with growth in the area coming to a standstill.
The dirty little secret that no one is really talking about? The only things keeping a significant exodus of residents from Las Vegas happening are 1. Somewhere in the vicinity of 80% of local homeowners are upside down in their houses, preventing them from selling and 2. For those holding onto jobs here, better to take what they have and keep the bills paid then risk looking for work somewhere else.
However… I think the housing bubble burst has also popped the “living in paradise” bubble of the imagination that many people moved here with the past few years and assumed the boom years were the norm in Las Vegas. When things aren’t going well, the desert heat, big-city traffic, and ever-rising taxes become dream killers. I’d look for stagnant growth here for a few years. Even though influx might pick up, it could be matched by people leaving.
On The Other Hand… – The next few years are going to continue to be an awesome time to be a visitor. As all these new hotel rooms come on line (most of them nice, upscale places), the demand will keep room rates way down. And… as the economy picks up and credit gets looser, you’ll continue to see incredible new attractions, dining, and bars open up.
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 $39, El Cortez from $9, Fitzgeralds from $21, Hooters from $25, Orleans from $35, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $20, Stratosphere from $27, Tropicana from $30, Tuscany from $24, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!
Las Vegas Show Reviews
Terry Fator’s Puppets Are Just The Beginning
When you say “Art”, many will think of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”, Michelangelo’s “Sistine Chapel”, or even The Golden Gate Bridge, but almost no one will ever think of ventriloquism. Except for maybe one man, 8 puppets, an auditorium full of people 5 nights a week on the Las Vegas Strip, and millions of American viewers who voted Terry Fator the winner of the 2007 America’s Got Talent show on NBC. Art is not only talent it is imaginative and fun, soulful and straight from the heart. It is exactly what Fator delivers night after night to an audience echoing shouts of laughter and cheer.
Southern Comfort And Live Music To Converge At B.B. King’s Blues Club At The Mirage – New restaurant, bar and live music venue set to open this winter offering food and entertainment ’round the clock “The Thrill is Gone” no longer as the King of Blues brings his popular restaurant, bar and nightlife venue, B.B. King’s Blues Club, to Las Vegas. The namesake that made Lucille famous is set to open winter 2009 at The Mirage. From early morning to late night, B.B. King’s Blues Club will serve the best in Creole cuisine fused with that southern comfort touch. Palates of Las Vegas visitors and locals alike are sure to be awakened by signature items such as Fried Dill Pickles, Gumbo Ya Ya Straight from the Bayou, Lip Smacking Ribs, Southern Fried Catfish and Banana Bread Pudding.
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Click to read full B.B. King’s Blues Club To Open At The Mirage story.
“The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas” Now Open At The Sahara Hotel & Casino – Master illusionist Rick Thomas, who has amazed audiences around the world, is now performing in his new home at the Theater inside the distinguished Sahara Hotel & Casino on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Thomas’ magic has been a showstopper for audiences of all ages where he combines the beauty of magic, the complexity of working with regal animals and the elegance of dance all into one dynamic performance. Thomas has performed on the Strip for more than 10 years headlining in theaters at properties such as the Tropicana and Stardust.
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Click to read full “The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas” Now Open At The Sahara story.
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The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas Las Vegas Tickets
Ricardo’s Gives Back To Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Southern Nevada On Thursday, September 24 – Ricardo’s Mexican Restaurant invites you to feast on tacos for charity as they host a fundraising dinner for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada on Thursday, September 24. The event is from 6 to 10 p.m. and features Ricardo’s signature menu with unique, creative and authentic Mexican favorites including Tacos de Pescado; grilled halibut tacos topped with fresh cabbage and a creamy cilantro sauce and a Ricardo’s favorite since 1980, Pollo de Ricardo’s – a wine-sautÚed chicken breast topped with tomato, avocado and melted cheese, presented in a tortilla basket.
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Click to read full Ricardo’s Gives Back To Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Southern Nevada story.
Hofbrauhaus Honors Lance Burton As Mayor For Octoberfest – Once again in the tradition of Octoberfest the Hofbrauhaus has invited Lance Burton to tap the keg and become honorary mayor for the evening on Sunday, Sept. 27 at 5:30 p.m. Kicking off Octoberfest has become an annual tradition for Lance Burton. Of course, it will be open to the public with a live band from Germany.
Lance continues to update his show, and (as you can see from the photo) has updated his look with more dark, mysterious image. Burton’s show continues to be a “must see” for everyone of all ages who enjoys magic. Click for Lance Burton Las Vegas Tickets
Flip Flop Shop Opens At The Shoppes At Mandalay Place – Flip Flop Shop, the nationÆs first retail chain to focus on flip flops, encourages consumers to “Free Their Toes.” Offering the hottest brands of flip flops and sandals, Flip Flop Shop promotes a lifestyle concept that is laid-back, yet adventurous. To round out this philosophy each shop provides a relaxed atmosphere complete with cork flooring, beach-inspired coconut oil-scented aroma, music and flat screen TVs highlighting active lifestyle-inspired scenes. Flip Flop Shop is located next to Art of Shaving.
Dennis Miller Returns To The Orleans Showroom October 9-11 – Five-time Emmy award winner and crowd favorite Dennis Miller brings his hilarious stand-up routine to The Orleans Showroom, October 9, 10 and 11. Celebrated as a witty comedian with an entertaining and intriguing stand-up routine, Miller keeps audiences laughing with his irreverent observations.
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Click to read full Dennis Miller Returns To The Orleans Showroom story.
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Dennis Miller Las Vegas Tickets
Basque Dinner At Alize – The Basque Country is a European Region in the Western Pyrenees that spans the border between France and Spain in the Atlantic Ocean. Join us at AlizÚ as chefs Mark Purdy and Tammy Alana and wine director Claudio Vigani guide you in a food and wine celebration of the Basque Region.
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Click to read full Basque Dinner At Alize story.
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Alize Las Vegas Reservations
Sugar Factory Opens At The Mirage – Sugar Factory features a delicious array of hard and soft candies, as well as chocolates, and is best known for its Signature Series Couture Lollipops. Featuring a variety of bejeweled and custom handles, sugar lovers can personalize a lollipop with their choice of handle and flavor to create a mouthwatering sweet sensation. Fun and collectible, the lollipops are the newest fashion accessory among celebrities and A-listers including Britney Spears, Kim Kardashian, The Pussycat Dolls and actress Lauren Conrad. Sugar Factory is located between Starbucks and Rhumbar.
Las Vegas Deals
- Senor Miguel’s Announces New Hours Of Operations, Mexican Independence Day Specials
- Palms Is An Excellent Place To Catch All The Monday Night Football Action!
- Las Vegas Fashion Bash Event Features Top Designers At Huge Discounts September 23 2009
- Win A $100 Gift Card To Blondies Sports Bar & Grill Through An Exclusive Facebook And Twitter Contest!
- Meet Other Business Professionals At The Biggest Networking Event In Las Vegas!
These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:
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Bookmark and Visit EasyVegasDeals.com daily (Monday – Friday) or
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Enter http://www.easyvegasdeals.com/feed/ into your RSS feed list (for those of you who use RSS/XML feeds) or
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Follow our Twitter feed at http://twitter.com/accessvegas
Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!
We love your newsletter. We go to Vegas at least once a year and my husband plays a lot of craps, but when it comes to comps he hardly gets anything. I have noticed our friends who play blackjack get comps all the time and they put less money through.
How much do you have to put through to get a comp when playing craps? I must admit when the table is cold he usually leaves, but he always comes back and they know him by name at the Wynn and Bellagio. I await your advice.
Cheers!
Rini from Port Douglas, Australia
Ted Responds:
You probably know this first part, but for the benefit of those who don’t: If you have a slot club card, you can (and should) also use it at the table games. They will track your play and include it in how they calculate your comps. When you get to the table and buy in (regardless of what game it is), simply set your card down with the money you are buying in for.
You perhaps somewhat answered your own question: Casinos are looking at time spent at the tables. They look at your bets periodically and record how much action you are giving them. They want to see you staying and playing. If you are leaving whenever your luck goes cold, they will hold that against you in your tracking (or perhaps end up not recording your play because you weren’t there very long).
Also, feel free to ask the pit boss exactly how they tabulate your average bet at the craps table. In years past, it has varied from place to place. It is just your basic bet getting tracked, or are you getting credit if you spread a lot of money around, make come bets, and similar?
Having said all of that: I’m still all for leaving a cold table (or slot machine). Is it really worth losing $100 in hopes of racking up a couple more dollars in comps?
Was in Vegas the second week of July and it was Hot. Thats the weather we like because we love to pool during the day and gamble at night. Once again we stayed at the Golden Nugget and loved it. The pool is fabulous (as good as expensive strip pools) lots of nice restaurants there, rooms are very nice and gambling is good there. Mid-week is very reasonable and service is good.
Came across a real find downtown: An Italian Restaurant called Chicago Joe’s… fantastic food great menu and wonderful service. A very small place about 5 blocks from Fremont Experience but well worth the trip. Cant wait for my trip next July.
Barb in Ohio
Ted Responds:
You found a true “best kept secret” and something that you’ll probably not even notice unless you are specifically looking for it. See Chicago Joe’s on Google Maps. It is a pleasant 10 minute walk down 4’th Avenue from Fremont Street (downtown casinos) but I’d opt for the quick cab ride after dark.
My tip? If you are visiting Chicago Joe’s, there might be a couple of guys in your group who enjoy good cigars. Just one block over and two blocks north from Chicago Joe’s at Las Vegas Blvd. and Bonneville is Don Vicente Cigar Company. Cuban born owner, Cuban born cigar rollers (rolling daily right in front of you) using some of the finest cigar materials available. Nice big screen, leather couches and complimentary Cuban-style coffee and sodas
Downtown is full of hidden treasures!
I would like to add some comments to the letter about breakfast buffets averaging $12 etc. I believe that Vegas has got to the point where it has really become a well-to-do vacation spot for people, at least on The Strip. Personally I think the buffets can be a good value the way we do. Everyone has their own eating habits but what we do is eat one lunch buffet per day. Since it is an all you can eat meal we take advantage of it and it more than carries us over till the next lunch buffet.
The Vegas casinos have some very good expensive foods at their buffets and I believe when a person gets their fill on some of these items (such as shrimp, etc.) it becomes a good value. I live in Minnesota and have been to all the casinos we have and have found the pricing and quality of our casino buffets make the Vegas buffets in many cases a very fair price. We have found in every Minnesota casino (except for one) based on the price, the food is not as good and the variety is less. Believe me I am not trying to promote Vegas here because I do get a little upset at the pricing of some things, but when it comes to buffets I feel Vegas is the best.
RW Milaca from Minnisota
Ted Responds:
Because of the competition here, buffets are far above the quality of what you’ll find in other places. And, are actually frugal when compared to eating at a coffee shop (here or anywhere). What would soup and salad, shrimp, prime rib, chicken, veggies, potatoes, a cheesecake slice (or two) and endless non-alcoholic drinks (orange juice, coffee, soda) cost at a sit-down restaurant? Last summer, I had all of that and more for about $15 at Harrah’s Flavors buffet for lunch. You also hit on a tip I love: There is usually very little difference between the lunch and dinner buffet menus at the hotels. And yet lunch is around 20% cheaper (and often less crowded).
I really appreciate your upbeat attitude about LV as a vacation spot. Some of these critics need to take a breath. On one fairly good LV podcast I listen to, they love to trash-talk a bunch of properties… like Imperial Palace, Circus, Riviera for example. We’ve been to all of the above and I think they’re stylin’! Loved our stays there, and really dug the affordability. And you’re a short way from everything else anyway. Man, you’d think some of these LV critics are “Anton Ego” from Ratatouille!
Kevin from Gresham, Oregon
Ted Responds:
Funny you bring this up as I was recently in Circus Circus for the first time in quite some time. No one is going to pretend it is the newest, hottest property in Las Vegas but I forgot what a cool old-school vibe it had. Plus… something that I used to love about the old casinos that you don’t find so much anymore: Despite being in the property more times than I can count over the years, I still almost got lost!
Long time visitors will remember that casinos literally used to be designed so that you couldn’t find your way out of them. Can anyone say “Vegas World” (now Stratosphere, although it looks nothing like Vegas World did)? That place was not only built like a maze, but had mirrors on the walls and ceiling in places!
The great thing about Las Vegas? Something for everyone. From some of the finest resorts in the world to very affordable, non-pretentious “let loose” properties. (Reminds me of those Miller – Living The High Life commercials). My advice to all? Explore as many casinos as you can during your visits!
Does the Deuce run from the airport? Can a person get on the bus, after coming in from the airport and where?
Thanks!
The Hausers
Ted Responds:
Unfortunately, there is no bus line that goes directly from the airport to (and down) The Strip. From the airport, you can take the line 109 north to The Sahara or 109 (same line) south to the South Strip Transit Center, where you can catch The Deuce to all points on The Strip.
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
-
Production Designer Rene Lagler To Create The Set For “Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick At The Las Vegas Hilton
-
Miracle Mile Shops Welcomes Billabong To The Center Early 2010
-
Get “Pinked” At Roni Josef International Salon & Spa To Support The American Cancer Society In Making Strides Against Breast Cancer«
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Tickets On Sale Now For MMA Xplosion PRo/Am Event
-
Timeless Innovation – Featuring Rubies, Coco and Jungle
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The Stratosphere Hotel & Casino Announces Pro Football Headquarters
-
The Stratosphere Hotel & Casino Announces Pigskin Partyzone In Back Alley Bar
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Harrah’s “Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill” Kicks Off Football Season With Ongoing Promotions, Special Guests, Drink Specials And More
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‘Matsuri’ packs a lot for a little, making it a viable option to Cirque
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Can football cure the slump on the Strip? (with video)
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Experts: Nevada’s foreclosures to worsen (with video)
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CityCenter setting ‘green’ standard on the Strip (with video)
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Opening Weekend of the NFL Season Brings In Big Money (with video)
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Country To Use Vegas’ Tourism Model
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Vegas weddings abound as numbers align on 9-9-09
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July visitation down 1.3 percent for Vegas area
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Vince Neil Expands Vegas Tattoo Empire
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High-Tech Hard Rock Debuts on Vegas Strip
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Looking at a different side of Vegas (RTC Viva Bike Vegas 2009)
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Summerlin’s windy roads give way to good Windy City fare at Chicago Brewing Company
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Strip competition for Mob Museum?
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Subterranean home of Las Vegas’s losers
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Fans allowed to attend NASCAR Sprint Cup awards ceremony
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Las Vegas hotel suites take luxury to a new level
-
Cleveland Clinic Rollin’ The Dice On Vegas Location
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Transportation Planners Envision New Interstate Linking Phoenix and Vegas
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Beyonce: The ultimate Vegas headliner?
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Chicagoan creates new bets for old casino standbys
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Plugging the Dam (Convention Numbers)
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Banana Republic opens concept store at Fashion Show Mall
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Pin Kaow offers spicy, savory Thai favorites
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Plumbers struggle to find work
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GOP’s Amodei to pursue Reid’s Senate seat
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Elvis presides as Goodmans renew vows after 47 years
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Gaming regulators looking into Hard Rock arrests
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‘Deal’ may not be good news for all
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Curtain rises on diverse Las Vegas theater season
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Encore nightclubs getting company
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CSI The Experience – Visitors can help solve crimes at new Strip attraction
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Time shares latest victim of recession
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Rooms coming, but who will stay?
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Pahrump offers several fall community events
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Investors in foreclosed properties billed for former owners’ fees, fines
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Hopes dim for ‘Talent’ acts
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Football contest pick and new BlackBerry that’s slick highlight Net Notes
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GLVAR reports slight decrease in home sales
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‘Tribute’ Joey is making waves
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9/9/09 is just crazy-good for all things Las Vegas
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Polling doesn’t favor Reid – Senator comes up short against potential rival
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Jermaine Jackson hires Gans’ man
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Economic indicators continue to tumble
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Gibbons: Tax hikes spur joblessness
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Serene trip leads you along scenic waters
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Piero’s caters to tourists without treating clientele like outsiders
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ROK Vegas boasts inviting atmosphere where patrons can enjoy good music
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World Market executive expects more shows to make LV home
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City officials considering donation of parcel to Cleveland Clinic
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Couples learn what it means to be partners
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 19
- Halloween October 31
- Veteran’s Day November 11
- Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
- Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
- Christmas December 25
- New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
- Super Bowl Sunday February 7
- Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
- President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
- Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
- Valentine’s Day February 14
- Mardi Gras February 16
- Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
- St. Patrick’s Day March 17
- Easter Sunday April 4
- Cinco de Mayo May 5
- Mother’s Day May 9
- Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
- Father’s Day June 20
- Independence Day July 4
- Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
- Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
- Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
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 2009 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication
September 16, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy
Access Vegas Insider Vibe û September 10, 2009
AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe
Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999
Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.
AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:
Las Vegas Essentials |
Featured ShowsPhotos and Wallpaper
|
Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:
Hello From Las Vegas! Lots of newsáfeaturing a few very well known Las Vegans so we’ll jump right in:
Holly Madison Peeping Through Fall Of 2010 – No one will fault Holly Madison’s work ethic or love of Las Vegas. Since moving here after her reality show “breakup” with Hugh Hefner, she’s turned herself into Miss Las Vegas. Many performers who come for a run here (whether a few months or a few years) often do their show but otherwise have no real interest or involvement in the community. In fact, at least one very prominent Las Vegas headliner is reputed to fly in for each show and flies right back out again the same evening (and does this multiple nights per week).
Others seem to embrace and enjoy Las Vegas. Celine Dion and her husband Rene Angelil were known for not only settling here (in Lake Las Vegas, about 17 miles southeast of The Strip) but were pretty active in the community and local charities. Celine was even spotted a couple of times shopping at the Henderson Wal-Mart!
Holly Madison has even stepped it up a notch from that. It isn’t “where has she been seen” but where “hasn’t” she been seen. Baseball games to bikini walks to charity events… she is seeminglyáeverywhere. (Holly can still usually go out without being mobbed. We aren’t making trying to compare her activities to Celine, who would have been mobbed walking down The Strip). Every writer who has interviewed her, both big and small, has glowed at the access she gives and how down-to-earth she is.
Disclaimer: I have a soft spot for her because we are both native Oregonians and both studied psychology at Portland State University (a few years apart… she’s just turning 30… and that number is firmly in my rear view mirror).
Madison has now signed on to continue her “Bo Peep” roll in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood through fall of 2010, both an indication that Peepshow will continue to enjoy a long, successful run here and that the love affair between Las Vegas and Holly Madison might have an equally long run as well.
Click to purchase Peepshow Las Vegas Tickets
Vince Neil Ink Opens This Weekend At The Rio – Vince Neil (infamous lead singer of Motley Crue) moved to Las Vegas not long after I did, and hasn’t exactly been a stranger himself.
This weekend, he’s opening his second Vince Neil Ink Tattoo Shop at The Rio (the original is at O’Sheas) in partnership with rock star chopper builder Danny Koker (known as Count) of CountÆs Kustoms. The whole thing kicks off this Saturday evening with a free Vince Neil concert at 8:30 PM in the Masquerade Village, and the tattoo shop opening to the public at 11:00 PM.
We were able to get our own tour over a week ago, and got a great photosáof the shop, Vince Neil memorabilia, and the bikes on display. All can be viewed in our new Vince Neil Ink Tattoo Rio Las Vegas 2009 photo set.
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Click to read full Vince Neil Ink At The Rio story.
Speaking of Mr. Las Vegas – According to Norm! of the Review-Journal, Wayne Newton is back in negotiations to be a permanent headliner at the revamped Tropicana in 2010. Given that the Trop is a quick and easy 6 mile drive from Newton’s Casa de Shenandoah and current rumbles that Newton could use the cash (plus the fact that both the hotel and Newton are embedded in the legacy of Las Vegas), I’d bet we’ll see this deal happen.
One Cool Photo – Leaving The Rio and Vince Neil Ink, we captured the following picture:
It is now my computer wallpaper and I want you to enjoy it as yours also (obviously at no charge). Instructions are simple:
- Click on the above photo which will take you to our photo gallery for this specific photo.
- On that page under the image is a small link that says Full View. Click that link.
- The full size photo will fill your browser. (It might appear too big… don’t worry about that).
- Right-click your mouse on the photo. A menu will pop up. Choose “Set As Desktop Background” (Vista only: use the “Stretch” option in the drop down menu).
- Mac users: I have no clue how to do the above on a Mac, but since you guys are smarter than us Windows users, I’m sure you already have it nailed.
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 $39, El Cortez from $9, Fitzgeralds from $21, Hooters from $25, Orleans from $35, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $17, Stratosphere from $26, Tropicana from $35, Tuscany from $33, , More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!
Las Vegas Show Reviews
Lion King Las Vegas – Truly A Spectacular Event
“The Lion King” is truly a unique addition to Las Vegas. By bringing this award winning show to a town that is not always “kid friendly,” Disney has given visitors and locals alike an opportunity for a truly unforgettable night with the entire family. It is also an excellent choice for a romantic night out.
As the story progresses, we see young Simba fall into trouble as his evil Uncle, Scar, would like to be king. Scar readily admits that he is no physical match to Simba’s father, Mufasa; however, he insists that he got the brains in the family and should be the rightful king. Unfortunately for Scar, Simba’s birth meant that he would never have the opportunity.
R&B Superstar Jamie Foxx To Take Over The Colosseum At Caesars Palace – Jamie Foxx will bring his Blame It Tour to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for an evening of live music on Friday, October 9. With Intuition, Foxx’s newest musical release, he sought to create a state-of-the-art R&B album that will solidify his place among music’s elite.
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Click to read full R&B Superstar Jamie Foxx To Take Over The Colosseum story.
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Jamie Foxx Las Vegas Tickets
Photo Credit: Jacob Andrzejczak
Phantom Fans Week – Don’t Miss Out On The Chance Of A Lifetime To See Phantom Up Close And Personal – In less than a month Phantom Fans from all around the globe will gather in Fabulous Las Vegas to take part in the first ever Phantom Fans Week. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the most well known musical masterpiece of all time like never before. Phantom fans from all over the world will join together September 16 û 20 at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino and enjoy the production, get exclusive access to the show at special Insider Sessions and hear from the biggest names in the Phantom world, including honorary guest and legendary director, Hal Prince.
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Click to read full Phantom Fans Week story.
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Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Las Vegas Tickets
Las Vegas Deals
- Get Into Something Good With Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone And The Turtles Featuring Flo And Eddie At The Cannery Casino & Hotel
- Primm Valley Casino Resorts Offers 2-For-1 Concert Tickets Through 2009 For Nevada Residents
- Enjoy $2 Frozen Margaritas Or Spiked Lemonade All Day Every Day At The Rub æBBQ Inside The Rio!
- Get 10% Discount Off Of Lunch At The Springs Cafe By Wolfgang Puck!
- El Cortez Extends Free $15 Dining Credit For All Active Military Personnel Available Now Through Sept. 30
- Enjoy $1 Bud & $1 Hot Dogs At Station Casinos Sports Books All Football Season Starting September 12!
These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:
-
Bookmark and Visit EasyVegasDeals.com daily (Monday – Friday) or
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Enter http://www.easyvegasdeals.com/feed/ into your RSS feed list (for those of you who use RSS/XML feeds) or
-
Follow our Twitter feed at http://twitter.com/accessvegas
Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!
Members Mania is the last thing I do before sending this out. I had some great letters and answers to send out today… only to wake up to a house without water! The water company was reading my meter and noticing it was using 6 gallons of water per minute. Which would only make sense if you were filling a swimming pool.
So… I spent much of the day dealing with the preparations to locate and fix the leak. Finding the leak is complicated by the fact that with our sandy/rocky soil, water doesn’t saturate and end up bubbling out of the ground. It simply seeps down and down and down into the earth.
I don’t want to delay this issue as we have so much great news and info (plus some of you will want to hit the free concert at The Rio on Saturday).
Since I don’t have any water coming out of my taps… I guess I’ll have to go look for something else to drown my sorrows in. This section should return next week.
We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:
- Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
- Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events
-
Pahrump Nugget Hosts Inaugural Nathan Adelson Hospice Charity Poker Tournament
-
Tequila Fest Sept 11-12 At The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
-
3 Lions Tattoo Set To Open October 1 At The Sahara Hotel & Casino
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Holly Madison, Penn & Teller Support Human Rights Campaign
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Floyd Mayweather vows to bring excitement to Vegas
-
Scarlett’s new magic showcase feels like it’s stuck in the past
-
Las Vegas Bowl gets tier that it deserves
-
Labor of ‘Love’ yields amazing Beatles treasures
-
Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Ka’ still an adventure you can’t find anywhere else
-
Breaking the law on Vegas’ new tourist attraction (with video)
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Las Vegas Sales Down Nearly 22%
-
Hundreds remember founder of Station Casinos at funeral
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Las Vegas Pays Birthday Tribute to Michael Jackson
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Las Vegas Club Pays Tribute to DJ AM
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Vintage neon signs to be displayed in Las Vegas
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Vail to Vegas, the scenic route
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Trying times force Trump International to adapt
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Vacant valley land prices stabilize in second quarter
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Light Group to run CityCenter nightclub, pool
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Supporters Push For DesertXpress Train
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American Idol Finalist Joins Vegas Act
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New Security Scanners Installed at McCarran Airport
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The subtle pleasures of Tinoco’s move to loud and proud downtown
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Moapa Valley Wildlife Refuge reopening near Vegas
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Mayor Makes Anniversary A Public Affair
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Vegas Santa Run Moves To Town Square
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Plan moves forward for giant desert refuge
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Springer Brings ‘Talent’ To Vegas Strip
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An Oasis of Vintage Cars in Las Vegas (IP Auto Collection)
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What happens in Vegas… does not stay in Vegas
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Moapa Valley Wildlife Refuge reopening near Vegas
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You’re never too old for Vegas
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T. rex for sale: Dinosaur fossil on block in Vegas
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Vegas dreamers go all in – a losing gamble
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Luck runs out on Vegas boom
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Old Vegas vibe gets new life
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Local time share industry facing most sluggish climate ever
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North Las Vegas could see ‘impossible’ foreclosure rate, says local analyst
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New Hard Rock Cafe Debuts On The Strip
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You shouldn’t have to wait until you have guests in town to enjoy Peppermill
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Stoney’s Rockin’ Country puts even city slickers at ease
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Eastside Cannery celebrates 1-year anniversary
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Goodman defends museum – LV mayor says story about display untrue
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Coyote Ugly Saloon offers experience much like the movie, but within reason
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Poll suggests Danny Tarkanian, Rory Reid owe ups, downs to daddies
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MGM Mirage seeks growth, fewer risks
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Danny Gans book tells of glory, pain
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Employers taxed by new levies
-
Tuscany Gardens scores with tasty marinara, proper pasta and flavorful meatballs
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Revolution Lounge at Mirage celebrates Beatles with music, videos
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Fremont Street still struggles
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 19
- Halloween October 31
- Veteran’s Day November 11
- Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
- Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
- Christmas December 25
- New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
- Super Bowl Sunday February 7
- Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
- President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
- Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
- Valentine’s Day February 14
- Mardi Gras February 16
- Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
- St. Patrick’s Day March 17
- Easter Sunday April 4
- Cinco de Mayo May 5
- Mother’s Day May 9
- Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
- Father’s Day June 20
- Independence Day July 4
- Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
- Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
- Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
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 2009 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication
September 9, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy
Access Vegas Insider Vibe û September 3, 2009
AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe
Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999
Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.
AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:
Las Vegas Essentials |
Featured ShowsPhotos and Wallpaper
|
Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:
Hello From Las Vegas! Just as quickly as the 110 degrees came, they are gone and we’re looking at a beautiful Labor Day weekend. Fall is our second summer (our first is Spring) and the reward for dealing with never, ever, ever feeling cool (let alone cold air) for nearly 100 days.
Fall Mirage Volcano Hours – The Mirage’s volcano (directly in front of the hotel) will be erupting every hour from dusk to 11 PM during the fall. If you haven’t seen the show in a year or more, you’ll find an upgraded presentation with a new soundtrack by Grateful Dead drummer and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Mickey Hart, and Indian tabla sensation Zakir Hussain.
Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner – Our own Mark Jacobs recently hit a Royal Flush at Binion’s downtown. That alone is pretty cool, but here’s the amazing part of it: The royal was dealt to him. All five cards right out of the chute! It paid $1000 on a $1.25 bet.
Ironically, I had one dealt to me about a decade ago also downtown (Plaza Hotel Casino for mine). Also in spades. One big difference over the years: I had to wait for a hand-pay (where an attendant brings your winnings to you). Remember… that was before the popularity of the ticket-in, ticket-out machines. Mark simply hit the cash-out button and took it to the casino cage:
If any of you have been on a cold streak your past couple of visits, hang tough. People are still winning in Las Vegas!
Obama-uh-oh – The dearth in Las Vegas business travel every since President Obama insinuated that having a convention in Las Vegas doesn’t look good in today’s economy continues to have fall-out. McCarran passenger traffic took an even bigger dive in July, and this time we can’t chalk it up to lack of local residents flying.
Much of the drop was specifically attributed to the drop in convention activity. Ruth’s Chris steakhouse on West Flamingo also has closed their doors (hoping to re-open next year) citing the same. Ruth’s Chris on Paradise does remain open. Thousands who make a good living in convention-related trade (setting up the shows, catering to attendees) are struggling with reduced hours or no jobs.
I want to be very careful that we don’t get too political here, as I realize we have people of all views as readers. But we do report what’s happening here in Las Vegas, let’s just say that Obama might not be the most popular guy in town right now.
Best Free Show In Town? – We continue to be big fans of the Twin Keys dueling piano show at Harrah’s 9 PM to 2 AM Tuesday through Saturday. They are loud, irreverent, very entertaining (plus cute and sexy, but in a completely fun way). Note: Small cover on weekends, but absolutely no charge on Tue. – Thur. nights!
Local Housing Market – Many experts are now suggesting 2012 as the time when the local housing market starts turning around, which falls in line with what I’ve been telling people for a number of months now.
We are in a second wave of foreclosures, and we’ll see a third wave before all is said and done. Some are thinking that the opening of CityCenter will make a dent in unemployment numbers, but honestly… it will be a drop in the bucket, and will do nothing to affect the construction industry (which represents the greatest percentage of unemployed Las Vegans).
The average price of a local home is around $125,000 with decent condos going for half of that. The glut of homes has rental rates extremely low. If you are looking to buy a vacation condo, come look around. If you are buying units to rent… make sure you can ride out the storm if current rent prices get even softer.
Wines And Vines – Our old buddy Les Kincaid is closing in on 20 years of broadcasting his “Wines and Vines” show live from various Las Vegas restaurants. If you enjoy the good life (and as one of our readers, we know you do), check him out at 7 PM Pacific Time live on the Cable Radio Network. Our local paper recently had a really nice article about him and the show: Local radio show host talks wine, food
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 $39, El Cortez from $9, Fitzgeralds from $21, Hooters from $25, Orleans from $31, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $17, Stratosphere from $26, Tropicana from $31, Tuscany from $16, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!
Chef Pierre Gagnaire To Open First U.S. Restaurant In The New Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas At CityCenter – Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas, prominently situated at the entrance of CityCenter, the extraordinary new urban resort destination, will introduce the award-winning cuisine of three-star Michelin Chef Pierre Gagnaire at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Twist by Pierre Gagnaire. Opening in December 2009, Twist will be Gagnaire’s first restaurant in the United States. The innovative menu will infuse the simplicity of classic French cuisine with a modern spin, relying on a pairing of flavors and textures for which Gagnaire is known. Located on the 23rd floor of the hotel, the Adam D. Tihany designed signature restaurant, seating 74, will feature a dramatic, glass staircase leading up to a suspended wine loft.
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Click to read full Chef Pierre Gagnaire To Open First U.S. Restaurant story.
Country Superstar Wynonna Sings The Chapters Of Her Life At The Orleans Showroom September 25-27 – Iconic country singer Wynonna brings her 2009 tour and a stunning glimpse into her 25-year epic musical journey to The Orleans Showroom for three nights only, September 25, 26 and 27. Audiences will witness Wynonna sing the chapters of her life as she performs an eclectic assortment of country, rock, blues and soul-bearing standards from her current album, Sing: Chapter 1. The album, Wynonna’s seventh solo effort, is powered by emotional sonnets that formed the backbone of The Judds’ own musical standards.
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Click to read full Wynonna Sings The Chapters Of Her Life At The Orleans Showroom story.
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Wynonna Las Vegas Tickets
PT’s And Sierra Gold Kickoff The Start Of Football Season With Drink Specials And Free Food – Football season is back and PT’s and Sierra Gold give fans throughout the Las Vegas Valley a reason to celebrate with kickoff parties on Thursday, Sept. 10 from 5 to 10 p.m. Partygoers at all taverns will enjoy a free stadium buffet, complete with hot dogs, burgers, boneless wings and more, Bud and Bud Light specials, and Absolut Peppar Bloody Mary specials. All tavern locations will also be hosting contests and giving away prizes, including official football merchandise, throughout the first NFL game of the year between defending Super Bowl Champions the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tennessee Titans.
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Click to read full PT’s And Sierra Gold Drink Specials story.
Las Vegas Deals
- The Laughs Keep Coming With A Full Line Up Of Great Comedians At The Comedy Stop At The Sahara Hotel & Casino
The Comedy Stop Tickets - Sierra Gold Introduces Lunchtime $5 Go-Box For Las Vegans On The Run
- Charlie Palmer Steakhouse Offers A New $50 Five Course Family Style Menu
- The Biggest And Best Free Football Party Returns To The Las Vegas Hilton September 13
- Some Great Budget-Friendly Entertainment Coming Up At The South Point
These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:
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Bookmark and Visit EasyVegasDeals.com daily (Monday – Friday) or
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Enter http://www.easyvegasdeals.com/feed/ into your RSS feed list (for those of you who use RSS/XML feeds) or
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Follow our Twitter feed at http://twitter.com/accessvegas
Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!
First let me say that I really enjoy your newsletter and look forward to reading each one.
We started going to Las Vegas in 1986 and have been going every year for the past 10 years. The last 5 years we have been staying downtown on Fremont Street at the Four Queens. We usually go up to the Strip once or twice during our week stay. This year we did not go up to the Strip but enjoyed our week downtown.
We went to the “Marriage Can Be Murder” mystery dinner show at the Four Queens and enjoyed every minute. Christy Copeland and Eric Post did a wonderful job of keeping the audience laughing throughout the evening with their comments. We also went to the “Kevin Burke Show” at Fitzgerald’s and was pleasantly surprised at how good the show was.
Please keep up the good work and keep the newsletters coming.
Mary Ann from Albany, New York
Ted Responds:
Thanks for reading and thanks for the great report. The Vegas that people came to know and love over the years is still very much alive downtown!
We just returned from our annual 10 day visit to Las Vegas and as usual had a great time. Went down to the Town Square and spent the entire evening between the Yard House the Blue Martini. The Surf and Turf burger at the Yard House was delicious and worth the price. The taxi fare was rather expensive and would recommend either private auto or the bus.
Went into New York New York Tuesday night and to our surprise found very few people there playing slots or tables. Our best time as always was in old Vegas. The casinos there seem to go out of their way to make the experience enjoyable. The casinos on the strip should take lessons.
Keep up the great work Ted – we enjoy the newsletters!!
Linda and Rich
Ted Responds:
We’re big fans of Town Square and I only regret that a recent move (which brought me more centrally located in Las Vegas) leaves me not as close to Town Square. Info at www.townsquarelasvegas.com
Blue Martini continues to have their half-priced happy hour daily (7 days a week) featuring their entire menu and all martinis. Yard House has a beer selection that only the most hardy beer drinker would ever be able to work their way through plus a large, varied menu. Our advice? Get to Blue Martini just a little before 4 PM and enjoy the perfect fall weather on their large outdoor patio. (Seats first-come first-served and fill up fast). Have a martini and appetizer, then make your way down the stairs and a short walk to Yard House for dinner. Walk off all those amazing calories with a nice, long stroll around the beautiful grounds, streets, and shops.
Town Square is only 1.5 miles south of Mandalay Bay and those double-decker Deuce buses that serve The Strip actually do continue on South. Make sure to ask the driver to let you off at Town Square. You’ll also get to pass the famous Las Vegas sign on the way.
We look forward to reading this newsletter each time it arrives. Our first trip to Vegas was in 2001 and we were hooked immediately. We get to Vegas a couple times a year. We have stayed at numerous hotels like the MGM, Flamingo, Monte Carlo, IP, and Hooters. We prefer to gamble and stay in the more economical locations. Why? The overall service, drink service, hospitality, and atmosphere are WAY better.
A prime example is the IP. It’s location is ideal in the middle of the strip. The table limits are reasonable, there is a non-threatening atmosphere, the drinks flow, the rooms are reasonable(even on the weekends), and there is always an electric energy in the place. However, walk into some of the larger casinos and you can hear a pin drop.
This might be why we enjoy Freemont Street so much too. We love walking through all the larger casinos but recommend hotels like Bill’s Gambling Hall, Hooters, Tropicana, Golden Nugget and Imperial Palace for the real Vegas experience. Remember you don’t go to Vegas to spend time in your hotel room… all need is a clean place to sleep and shower.
What is the latest on the implosion of the Tropicana and IP?
Regards,
Gilles & Cori from Regina, Sk. Canada
Ted Responds:
This email came in before our recent report regarding all of the new improvements on the way for Tropicana. See Pimping The Trop in our August 5 issue.
We never thought that the IP (Imperial Palace) would end up going down. With new shows and a great location, the Imperial Palace will around for a long time.
I’m happy that we still have some of the mid-market stalwarts. I miss the Boardwalk (MGM CityCenter location), San Remo (Hooterized), Stardust and even the Klondike. Don’t get me wrong: plenty of amazing shows and great dining (plus the plus resort accommodations) of the upscale properties. But… sometimes something comfortable about the mid-level places.
Just returned from our first trip trip Vegas and it was awesome! We stayed at the Flamingo and loved it. I read many negative comments about the rooms and service but we were totally pleased. Everyday there were at least 4 people on our floor cleaning rooms and we never came back to a dirty room. Took in the Donny & Marie show and it was great… high energy and great vocals and Marie is gorgeous. We will be back ASAP and will stay at the Flamingo again and see Donny and Marie again.
We found the Strip to be very tight with gambling winners so next trip we will spend our gambling funds downtown. The Fremont Experience was very impressive.
Thanks for the interesting newsletter, we look forward to each issue
Mike & Cindie
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
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Cheap Trick Honors The Beatles With The Release Of “Sgt. Pepper Live” Album and DVD
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Varvatos Brings Its Bowery Act To Las Vegas – New Boutique Opens In The Hard Rock HOtel & Casino This September
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Vintage Vegas Entertainment Returns To the Suncoast Showroom With Shades of Sinatra October 2-4
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Remedy’s In Henderson Proudly Sponsors The 2nd Annual “Kennedy Kares” Fundraiser
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Labor of Love û The Party Lasts All Weekend Atop The VooDoo Lounge
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Dallas ventriloquist Terry Fator fulfills dream with Vegas show
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Phantom fans week scheduled in Vegas
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Aubrey O’Day Promises ‘Peeps Here And There’ In Vegas’ ‘Peepshow’
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Donny and Marie tackle new album
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Dinner theater show keeps guests guessing
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Shows buck usual path to success
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War of words over bricks for Las Vegas’ Mob Museum (with video)
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Construction Workers Wonder About Future (with video)
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Allegiant Air Grounds Nonstop Flights Between Santa Barbara, Las Vegas
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Dinner In The Sky Won’t Move To Strip
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Las Vegas jobless rate hits all-time high of 13.1 percent
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“Top Chef” Moves to Las Vegas
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World Market Center unveils ad campaign
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Vegas water planners say keep working on pipeline
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Prive nightclub in Las Vegas gets temporary liquor license
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Japanese and Italian cuisine are strikingly suited for one another at Kabuki
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Report: Paula Abdul set for Vegas revue
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Marinelli’s at the M Resort is a little pricier than most Italian dining rooms, but it’s worth it
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Resort openings unlikely to stem tide of local job loss
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Frank Caliendo Gets 10-Year Deal At Monte Carlo
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Bicyclists and Hikers May Pay at Red Rock
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Poll: Harry Reid ‘underdog’ in 2010 race
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Smashburger to enter Vegas market
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Vegas Slogan Headed To Hall Of Fame?
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Bally’s reopens sports book
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Golden Nugget addition brings new look, new jobs
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Lennar offers buyers incentives
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Debt hangs over group of profit reports
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Casinos looking to pool resources, take larger wagers
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Chefs farmers market now open to public
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Beat resumes at Prive after forced shutdown
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With passion for sports betting, bookmaking executive is odds man in
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Touring 10 of the oldest continuously run businesses in Las Vegas
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Report: Newton turned down gig
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Water-use rules aren’t going away any time soon
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Outlook for LV housing grim
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Bottom-scraping prices for foreclosed-upon homes mean bargains for savvy buyers
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Nevada foreclosures lead nation
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State bleeds more jobs – Las Vegas bears brunt of Nevada’s hard times
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Pipeline receives go-ahead – Rural Nevadans vow to keep fighting
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Couples can register as domestic partners starting in August
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Swimsuit model slain in California
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Monte Carlo unveils luxury units on formerly damaged 32nd floor
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New Paymon’s location adds a few different touches
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Office and retail space sitting vacant longer as small-business loans dry up
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Wynn tip debate continues
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Television promoting Vegas acts
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Marrandino heading to Atlantic City as Harrah’s Eastern boss
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Greek Isles changes hands
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School district tries to cope with understaffing, $120 million in cuts and more
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 September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
- Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
- Jewish New Year September 19
- Halloween October 31
- Veteran’s Day November 11
- Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
- Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
- Christmas December 25
- New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
- Super Bowl Sunday February 7
- Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
- President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
- Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
- Valentine’s Day February 14
- Mardi Gras February 16
- Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
- St. Patrick’s Day March 17
- Easter Sunday April 4
- Cinco de Mayo May 5
- Mother’s Day May 9
- Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
- Father’s Day June 20
- Independence Day July 4
- Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
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!
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All contents copyright 2009 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication
September 2, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy
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