Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 13, 2000

Posted on September 13, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews, the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it!

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Las Vegas Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars – All Cities: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Discount Hotel Rooms – All Cities: http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

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This Issue: Jerry Lewis

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks
fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at:
allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

IMPLOSION TIME? – Rumor is floating around that the El Rancho (north end of
the strip) is going to be imploded the first week of October. As soon as we
can confirm, we’ll let you know!

NOT THE BEST WEEK – for a few tourists. A shooting in Harrah’s left one
person dead, and a bus overturned about 4 hours north of Las Vegas,
injuring all on board (many seriously). Harrah’s story at
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2000/sep/08/510739217.html
and the bus wreck story is at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-09-Sat-2000/news/14350317.html Our
poll for this week asks you how safe you feel coming to Las Vegas in light
of news like this. Poll is at http://www.accessvegas.com

SOUTHWEST AIR – is launching new service from Birmingham, AL to Las Vegas
and for a limited time are offering an introductory fair of $198. You need
to book by Dec. 10 at http://www.southwest.com

RESTAURANTS – Here are some various recent restaurant reviews from various
local media:

Grand Lux (Venetian) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
House of Blues (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D57932
Postrio (Venetian) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D42354
Spago (Caesars) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-01-Fri-2000/weekly/14261700.html

TOM JONES IMPRESSION – From the quirky file: A man was arrested at (Las
Vegas’) McCarran Airport for smuggling a dozen lizards into the country …
in his underwear. Story at
http://www.apbnews.com/newscenter/breakingnews/2000/09/07/lizards0907_01.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE – has been so popular that it is extended again to any
reservation made in Sept. (for travel
any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=3DIVC&LKF=3DIVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

WINNERS! – Charles R. Beck II or Minooka, IL won the Review-Journal special
section about the Aladdin opening.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations
EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all
your needs directly online! Search by dates at
http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=3D5&amid=3D143

MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS – The John Gray best-selling book
as been turned into a musical revue and debuts at The Flamingo on Sept. 17.
It is billed as “A musical revue about love — the good, the bad, and the
funny.” Tickets available at (800) 221-7299 and full story at
http://news.excite.com/news/pr/000906/nv-grays-mars-venus

SKINTIGHT – or a strip club? The Review-Journal reviewed this new show at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-08-Fri-2000/lifestyles/14316763.html

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at
http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

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LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Thursday – 103/71 Sunny
Friday – 103/69 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 104/66 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 104/65 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Jerry Lewis

Rarely do you get a chance to see a living legend — someone who both
transformed comedy and has ties to old Las Vegas. And as someone in my
mid-30’s, my only knowledge of Jerry Lewis has been the telethons and his
goofy comedy movies from long before I was born.

As noted here a few weeks ago, Jerry Lewis recently inked a 20 year deal
with The Orleans hotel, and relatively new off-strip property located about
10 minutes from the Strip on Tropicana. Since he is going to be a regular
headliner (3-4 times a year), I decided it would be great chance to find
out what he is all about. Boy, am I glad I did!

Jerry Lewis took the stage to a standing ovation, and you could tell that
he was in his element. He was essentially his own opening act, spending the
first 20 minutes or so telling some (by his own admittance) corny jokes and
then singing a couple of numbers. Not unlike what you might see on the
telethon.

After an instrumental by his 21 piece orchestra, he came back and really
kicked it into high gear. There was no specific theme, but more of a
nonstop intertwining of entertainment. He’d do some of the impressions he
made famous over the years, live bits from his films, and sing songs.

If you want to know who Jim Carrey borrowed his act from, go see Jerry
Lewis. This man’s physical humor wasn’t a creation for the silver screen,
and he still was just about as quick and agile as ever, including brushing
himself off from a nasty (unplanned) fall and going on like a trooper. He
pulled off everything from catching a spinning, tossed cigarette in his
mouth to his funny faces and antics, all the time doing banter, jokes, and
commentary in his many unique voices.

Those who long for old Las Vegas, or just wonder what it would have been
like would enjoy the time he spends reminiscing about Dean Martin and Frank
Sinatra, which included personal thoughts and stories as well as a few
short video clips. As a tribute to Frank, he sang Sinatra’s infamous
arrangement of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.”

Jerry is 74 years old, was very ill last year with spinal meningitis, was
only one week removed from the grueling MDA telethon, and on his fourth of
four nights. And yet, he did an energetic 2 hours 15 minutes virtually
nonstop, roughly twice the length that most Las Vegas shows now run. And,
you could see his joy of performing and love toward the audience shining
through.

Go see Jerry Lewis. If you are a little older, and you enjoy some of the
classic songs from that era and remember his films, go see Jerry Lewis. If
you want to see how a single performer can command a stage and an audience
in a way few do today, go see Jerry Lewis. If you wonder what is was like
back in the Rat Pack days when Las Vegas was a little more swinging, and
the performers truly looked like they were having a great time onstage, go
see Jerry Lewis.

Go see Jerry Lewis.

Jerry is scheduled to perform 3-4 times a year at The Orleans and we’ll
print future dates as the information is available. Tickets started at
$54.95 plus tax for this last run, and The Orleans runs a free shuttle from
the Barbary Coast on the Strip to the Orleans 365 days a year.

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Need a Vegas apartment? How about $100 cash? =20
Go to http://www.viva.com and get both. Just request exactly =20
what you want and get custom rental offers from matching properties. =20
Sign a lease by September 30, 2000 and get $100 cash bonus!

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Dean King from MN wrote:

> I receive another famous Las Vegas newsletter
>three times monthly and I must say this newsletter is
>so much better it is really no contest. It is obvious
>that a whole lot of effort is put into this
>publication. The reviews are extremely interesting
>along with the news articles and entertainment
>listings. Not long ago I asked for a restaurant review
>for a place behind the hotel we were staying at and I
>had an answer and excellent review—-within minutes.
>Again congratulations for the excellent
>production——–

Thanks for the kind words. If you are hard-core for Las Vegas and you want
more info than you get here every week, let me suggest the Everything Las
Vegas newsletter. This twice-weekly newsletter is packed (and I mean packed
— about twice as long as this one) with any and all news pertaining to Las
Vegas tourism. Unlike mine, it provides substantial coverage to casinos and
restaurants away from The Strip and Downtown. Subscribe information is at
http://hometown.aol.com/mrvegas98

Michele in Dallas wrote:

>Hi Ted
>
>A hint for your readers.
>
>My friend Maria and I were very pleased when we got a last minute deal
>for a hotel room at the Bellagio. It is beauty. As is typical, we
>were running late. We were on our way to see Mystere at Treasure
>Island. We went downstairs and stood aghast at the long line of
>people waiting to eat at “Cafe Bellagio.” We had no time to waste
>waiting in line.
>
>I decided to ask how long the wait. She mentioned
>that we could go to the counter and eat. They have about 10 or so bar
>stools at the counter (much like a diner) but in the main restaurant.
>It is first come first serve. Prices are the same as eating at a
>table/booth. We were able to eat and leave within 20 minutes. You
>can order breakfast all day long too.

Lynda Loipersbeck wrote:

>Dear Ted, I just have to comment about this Roger Radjeski’s e-mail to
>you concerning his trip to Las Vegas. How it would have been a “waste
>of time” had he not seen the canyon, valley, the dam and the
>wilderness. After 30 trips
>from Canada we have never seen the canyon, valley the dam or the
>wilderness and never want to. We come to Vegas like most people, for
>the excitement, the shows, the food, to gamble, to eat, to SMOKE, and
>to drink. To be alive and throw our hard earned money away and enjoy
>doing it. Vegas is the best city in the world as far as I’m
>concerned and I wouldn’t trade it for all the wilderness in
>Canada…and I AM CANADIAN

Certainly, I think the majority of people come for the gambling. For those
interested in the scenery, browse the tours at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours and
for those who don’t have an interest in gambling, we have non-gaming
activities listed at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm But, I agree
that 99.9999% come here to get a little wild and reckless and maybe hit it
big!

Lorraine Child from New Zealand wrote:

>Your newsletter of 06 September mentioned that Circus Circus is one of
>five worst buffets in Las Vegas. We are visiting in October so could
>you tell us the names of the other 4 please. We do not get to visit

>as often as we would like as we are from New Zealand and need all the
>help we can get to not make a mistake while there. Thanks for the
>newsletter which we enjoy immensely.

While this is subjective, these are the five I’d avoid at all costs: Circus
Circus, Imperial Palace, Holiday Inn Boardwalk, Westward Ho, and Lady Luck.
The best? The Aladdin (hands down), but with Bellagio a close second.
Downtown? Main St. Station, although it doesn’t hold a candle to the other
two.

Stephen Wark of Venice, CA wrote:

>I am going to be in Las Vegas during Halloween this year. Where can I
>find current information about any special events that may be
>occurring for this “holiday?”

The MGM Theme Park usually does a “Haunted Park.” I’ll post info on it when
available. The Tropicana is home to the Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball.
More info on that available at http://www.halloweenball.com/main.htm
(Warning: adult content).

>Thanks for the informative newsletter. Its a pleasure to read about
>the going-ons in America most extraordinary and spectacular
>playground. Can you give out a little extra information in one of the
>upcoming newsletters? I think a lot of people bet horse racing when
>they visit Vegas. What sportsbooks handle the “Sport of Kings”, and
>make a point to really place emphasis on the betting of thoroughbreds.

Most of the major hotels have a race book in the sports book area. I have
virtually no knowledge regarding horse racing. Readers, if you bet the
ponies, drop a line to allvegastv@aol.com and let us know which are the
better race books and why!

Barb from Alberta, Canada wrote:

>I have been to Las Vegas on a couple of occasions. I am returning mid
>October with my daughter for her 21st birthday. I would like to make
>this trip as special as I can for her. She would like to see a male
>strip show and I can only find one at the Olympic Garden. Do you have
>any info on what type of place this is and is it safe? In other words
>would you bring your 21 year old daughter there? Also I would like to
>book a spa for us on the day of her birthday (Oct.16). Any info on
>where the deals on spa packages are? Where’s a good place to have our
>hair done (without it costing us our whole weeks budget)? Any other
>info you can give me would be appreciated. Thanks

I’m a guy, but I know women who have checked out the male revue there and
had a good time. Call ahead — I’m not sure if it plays every night or just
weekends. That area of town is marginal, but security around the venue is
fine and they have on-site parking.

I’m also the wrong person to ask about spas and hair … so readers, help
us out! Tell us about your favorite spa and the best hair salon on the
strip at allvegastv@aol.com

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at
allvegastv@aol.com While space doesn’t permit publishing every letter,
we do certainly read them all and they help shape our content. Please
include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is
optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to
you, your website, etc., if accepted.

ONLINE POLL – This week’s poll: “Do the recent tragedies involving Las
Vegas tourist (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of
coming to Las Vegas?” Make your opinion count at http://www.accessvegas.com

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter
every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date
and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in
each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified
email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win.
Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

VIVA LAS VEGAS – As promised, we have two tickets to the long-running Viva
Las Vegas show. However, you can’t use these for admission. These
collectors items are tickets to the show at the legendary Sands Casino. So,
we are going to make you work for them! You need to tell us, in order, what
five Las Vegas hotels have the most rooms. As a tiebreaker, please put down
what you think the total amount of rooms these five hotels has, combined.
If more than two correct entries (including tiebreaker), winners will be
chosen at random from correct entries. E-mail answers to
vivacontest@in-vegas.com Contest ends Sept. 30, 2000 NOTE: I have
documented this information from what I deem to be a reliable source, and
the information I have will be the used to gauge the winning submissions
regardless of whatever conflicting information someone else might present.

TWA – Airlines is giving away two domestic (US) round trip tickets every
day, and they fly to Las Vegas! Enter at
http://twa.phototrust.com/Caption.asp=20

lasvegas.com is giving away 5 dinners worth $200 (for 4 people apiece).
Prize Details:
* 3 dinners at Emeril’s at the MGM Grand
* 2 dinners at Del Frisco on Paradise Road
Enter at http://www.lasvegas.com/events/foodnetwork/contest.html

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New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 13, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 6, 2000

Posted on September 6, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

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This Issue: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

CHANGES – In our efforts to improve readability, we have moved our concert and headliner listings off of the newsletter and onto the internet at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm We will still make initial announcements regarding headliners here. Also, we are going to start including the 5 day weather forecast. Nothing to temp those of you from the cooler climates like the visions of warm sun and palm trees! Or right now, those of you wishing to escape the record heat wave in Texas and other parts of the South.

BELLAGIO ART – “Masterworks from The Phillips Collection” has put 26 major paintings on loan to the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. Featured are works by Picasso, Monet, van Gogh and many others. Cost is $12 ($10 for NV residents) and the gallery is open daily from 10 AM – 10 PM. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-01-Fri-2000/weekly/14261700.html

PARIS LAS VEGAS – is celebrating their first year anniversary with “Festival De La France” (French Street Festival) featuring strolling mimes, jugglers, stilt walkers, French Can Can dancers, acrobats, and French-styled Dixieland jazz. The festival will be held in the outdoor area between Paris and Bally’s Sept. 8 – 10.

HOT DOGS – Reader Joe Copeland spent some time researching where to find the best hot dogs in Las Vegas. If you are hooked on hot dogs, this is a must read at http://www.accessvegas.com/vegas-hot-dogs.htm

AIRFARES – How about some cheap airfare — we can’t help you with rooms and rental cars if you don’t get here first! Please remember that these fares are limited time sales and are subject to restrictions.

Frontier Airlines: Off-peak introductory prices (for Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday) for flights between Washington, DC (Reagan) and Las Vegas ($159). Flights begin September 7 and stop in Denver. Details at http://www.frontierairlines.com

Legend Airlines: today announced that effective immediately it is offering for five days only special fares for all its destinations from Dallas Love Field, including Las Vegas: Dallas Love Field to Las Vegas – $119.00
Customers can earn 1,000 bonus miles by booking on-line at http://www.legendairlines.com

US Air: to Las Vegas from Albany, Boston, Charleston, Dayton, Jacksonville, Louisville, New York, Pittsburgh, Raleigh/Durham, Syracuse and West Palm Beach for just $99 each way. For more information, go to http://www.usairways.com

Delta: Special fares this week to Las Vegas from Tampa, DFW, and Boston. Info at http://www.delta-air.com/servlet/ACRedirect?rdID=1833&subID=2318405970

SUNCOAST CASINO PREVIEW – On Thursday, Sept. 14, Century Cinemas is hosting a
fund-raiser for The Shade Tree, the Las Vegas area’s only shelter dedicated to
serving women and children in crisis. For $25, you will be treated
to the showing of a soon-to-be-released film directed by Sally Field, a
pre-film cocktail hour, food sampling from Suncoast’s many restaurants,
and free munchies to enjoy during the movie. If you will be in Las Vegas
on Sept. 14 and would like to attend this casual-dress event, just
contact David Berman via e-mail to dberman@concentric.net The Suncoast is a beautiful, new “locals” casino located in NW Las Vegas.

$25 HOTEL REBATE – has been so popular that it is extended again to any reservation made in Sept. (for travel
any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

WINNERS! – Jon and Lynn Coe of Brocton, NY and Bill Osbourne of Lindenhurst, IL were the winners of the Aladdin Implosion video!

Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Scenic Southwest Tours – by plane, bus, or even helicopter! You’ve seen the glossy ads in the tourist brochures. You’ve thought about it. You come all the way to Las Vegas — why not see one of the some of the most famous landmarks in the world! Don’t by tricked by web sites & magazines that offer discount tours. Taxes, park fees, permits can almost double the price. Our prices are inclusive – no hidden charges! Best Las Vegas Tours

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

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LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Excite.Com:

Wednesday – 91/71 Very windy. More clouds than sun.
Thursday – 94/70 Warm. More clouds than sun.
Friday – 99/70 Sunny
Saturday – 99/68 Sunny
Sunday – 98/61 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

race-rock-01.jpg (35087 bytes) If you are a fan of motor sports, you have a “home away from home” in Las Vegas. Race Rock is 30,000 sq. ft. of every kind of racing machine, photos, outfits, and memorabilia there is. NASCAR, Indy Car, drag racing, motorcycle racing — you name it, they have it! NASCAR cars along the walls, jet boats hanging from the ceiling, and drag cars standing upright are just a few of the thousands of artifact that will surround you as you dine while various racing videos play on TV monitors throughout the building.

Usually, theme restaurants are high on flash, high on prices, and low on food quality and service. If you are looking for “Vegas Deals” like $5.99 prime rib, keep walking because this isn’t a cut-rate joint. You can view the menu and prices online at http://www.racerock.com/racerock/themenu.html But, the service and presentation as well as the food quality justified prices that would be considered normal in any other part of the country.

I started with the fresh garden salad ($4.95), which was my only complaint. The greens weren’t shredded very well (I was cutting the salad with a knife) and the tomatoes and carrots looked like they were added as an afterthought. Fresh, but not a salad worthy of the a la carte price.

The main course, however, did help make up for it. “The King” (billed as racing legend and part-owner “King” Richard Petty’s favorite) was a healthy sized char-grilled sirloin steak smothered in mushroom sauce and sweet Burgundy onions. It came with “crashed” (mashed) garlic potatoes and fresh veggies. Forget needing a salad — this big plate was full of good tasting food, justifying the $17.95 (the most expensive thing on the menu).

race-rock-02.jpg (21588 bytes) For those just interested in a little “nitro,” guest are welcomed to enjoy the surroundings at either of two bars. Don’t be shy about heading upstairs where the bar area features two-story windows and a variety of racing arcade games. Specialty drinks are available in souvenir containers, and I mean containers. Racing themed containers like fuel cans!

The verdict? Not a Vegas “must-see,” but certainly a fun place to eat downtown for the general public. However, if you are into motorized racing of any kind, you’ll love the place. In fact, they probably have more NASCAR related displays alone than the actual NASCAR Cafe (reviewed https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-15.htm ) at The Sahara does.

Race Rock is located at the eastern end of the Fremont St. Experience downtown. Hours are 11 AM – 11 PM Sun. – Thurs. and until midnight on weekends. Phone: (702) 382-RACE Website: http://www.racerock.com

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jim Scheetz of Bethlehem, PA wrote:

>Dear sirs: I am almost positive i read an article that there is going
>to be some kind of event going on while we are visiting Las
>Vegas(9/12/00–9/19/00) involving the food TV network.á Emeril Lagasse
>is supposed to be there and I remember the cost was $30.00.á the
>problem is that i don’t remember where it was and on what dates.á Also
>can we get tickets on line from some web site.

Here are the details from 2 newsletters ago:

FOOD TV – is having the “Food Event of the Year.” Live cooking demos by Food Network personalities, samples of a wide variety of dishes from Las Vegas’ hottest restaurants, and a chance to be part of an Emeril TV special that will air Sept. 30 are just a few of the festivities taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Sept. 17. Tickets are $30 and available at (800) 949-CHEF

Jean Haka of Waukesha WI wrote:

>Hi Ted!
>
>Hey–what’s up????á Do travelers think that just because they’re in a
>major tourist vacation spot that they’re never going to get poor
>service?????á I have received poor service all over the
>world–including many parts of Florida (couldn’t even hardly speak
>English.á .á .á .) to Chicago and foreign countries, too!!!á If you
>enter a restaurant and have to wait and wait for your server to
>acknowledge you–just get up and leave!!!á The rest of the meal
>probably isn’t going to be much better.á If you walk into any place
>and don’t like the vibes–leave!!!á (This goes for any casino table
>game, too!)

>When we visit Las Vegas we often return to the same restaurants over and
>over again–because we are familiar with their service and enjoy their
>food.á ..á .if you aren’t sure where these are, search the web, there
>are many sites that rate the food and service in Las Vegas and it can
>give you a handle on where to go once you get there!!!á If nothing
>else, eat at your hotel.á If you have problems, write a factual letter
>when you get home.á They’ll usually compensate you in some manner.

Good advice. DineSite at http://dinesite.com/home/?v=159 is where I go to research restaurants when traveling.

Andrew Tarascio wrote:

>Just returned from Vegas and I felt I had to warn your readers to stay
>away from the buffet at Circus Circus.á The meat was either dry or
>tough.á Because of this, I had to eat mostly salad and a few of their
>desserts (which also were a disappointment).

We agree. Circus Circus buffet is consistently one of the 5 worst buffets in town. It may be on par with many of the chain buffets around the nation, but you are in Las Vegas. Expect more!

Zira Schiffer of NJ wrote:

>We are arriving in Vegas on Labor Day and had booked tickets for the
>Venetian show, Nebulae.á The box office just called to let us know the
>show is canceled for technical reasons.á Have you heard that the
>closing is more than technical?á I know it didn’t get the best of
>ratings from the “critics”.á Glad to see the temperature is below 100
>for the upcoming week.

Technically speaking, ticket sales were lousy. It is a moot point as the entire C2K showroom is temporarily closed because of legal wrangling. That includes the nightclub and Melinda Magic Show. My guess is that they will get it open reasonably soon. Too much lost revenue every day it stays closed.

Lynette from WI wrote:

>Hi Ted Newkirk~ We are going to be in Las Vegas (Yeh!!) Dec 1~4th.á We
>planned our trip around a football game.á We are hoping to be able to
>place a bet (or 2) and then watch the game in their sportsbook area.
>We don’t know what hotel/casino we will be at yet but preferably a big
>main one, and it won’t be a Monday night game, so my question is: do
>you think they will turn on our game if we ask them to????á We sure
>hope so, that is what we are really looking forward to.á If you have
>any suggestions for the “nicer” sportsbook casinos, the ones that will
>turn the channel, would you please let me know??á I really enjoy
>getting your newsletter, thank you.

Every major sportsbook has enough TV’s to show just about every halfway important game on at any given time. If your game is not the most important (general interest) game at the moment, you might have to watch it without sound (which is reserved for the biggest game). You didn’t mention college or pro, but the Imperial Palace shows every single pro football game on Sundays in their showroom.

Some of the nicer sportsbooks include Bellagio and Las Vegas Hilton. If you are interested in a lesser known college game, it never hurts to ask if they will show it. Sometimes they have way more TV’s than they need tuned to one game, but it depends on how busy they are and their satellite limitations.

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Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Please include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc., if accepted.

Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!

ONLINE POLL – From the last two weeks: “Who and when do you tip on a big slot win?”

Are you nuts? They don’t rebate my money when I lose. 18%
I’ll give the change girl a small tip if she was helpful. 20%
I tip the change person and slot person a modest amount. 38%
Party time! I hand out the cash to everyone including the cocktail waitress. 22%

I’m pulling a blank on new poll questions. If you have any bright ideas, send them to allvegastv@aol.com

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

The Magic Returns – We have one copy of this recent special section from the Review-Journal highlighting the new Aladdin Hotel and Casino. Enter at (contest closed)

**WIN A TRIP TO ORLANDO** Share your pictures with your friends & family. Every time you upload a picture at Zing between now and September 11, 2000 you’ll be entered to win a trip to Orlando. Store & share your pictures for a chance to win today! http://by.advertising.com/1/c/22838/6290///?orig=NEWS

Viva Las Vegas – Sands Hotel collector tickets will be given away next week!

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Have a request for a review? Boggled when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where all of the “articles” are really paid ads, we give you the honest scoop. If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us at http://www.accessvegas.com You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 6, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 30, 2000

Posted on August 30, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

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This Issue: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HARRAH’S – has done it right with their Carnival Court! This outdoor bar and grill at the south end of the property is a fantastic place to relax with friends and enjoy some live music seven days a week. They have moved Cook E. Jarr down there from the Improv room upstairs (a great move, and one we suggested back in May at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-05-17.htm ). You can catch his show for free at midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and more info on Cook E. Jarr is at http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr Next suggestion for one of the resorts: How about a permanent open-air club around a water setting like you find in many other beach and resort spots?

END OF THE INN – Gone. Done. History. The doors of the Desert Inn are locked shut, and the next wave of casino building planned will involve the north end of the Strip, with the Frontier and Desert Inn both slated for destruction and new resort construction at dates not yet announced. Hotel closing story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-29-Tue-2000/news/14261089.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/news/14230478.html

TOP 5! – Frommer’s just published their Top 10 Travel list at http://www.frommers.com/features/articles/0008_2a.html Of note: The Orleans Hotel here in Las Vegas was rated America’s 3’rd best budget hotel, Laughlin, NV was rated the 5’th cheapest city for vacation, and our partners Hotel Reservations Network were ranked the 4’th best hotel discounter. Specific info on each:

Orleans Hotel – http://www.accessvegas.com/hotels/orleans-hotel-las-vegas-hotel-reservations.htm
Laughlin – http://www.accessvegas.com/laughlin-nevada-hotels-nv.htm
Hotel Reservations Network – http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

SUMMER IS OVER! – While that may not be the best news in much of the world, we are looking forward to beautiful fall days with shirtsleeve weather in the daytime and cool evenings (not to mention seeing our electric bills drop). If your good weather is starting to wane, no time like the present to come enjoy ours! Current Las Vegas forecast is at http://www.weather.com/weather/us/zips/89121.html

RESTAURANTS – A host of Las Vegas restaurant reviews have hit the press the past couple of weeks:

All American Bar & Grill (at the Rio) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/07_27_00/dining_taste.html
Grand Lux Cafe – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
Orleans Buffet – http://www.e-vegas.net/display/article.asp?article=725
The Tillerman (Paradise Rd.) – http://www.scopemag.com/departments/08_17_00/dining_taste.html

COINLESS SLOTS – In a recent poll and feedback, most of you came out overwhelmingly against coinless slots. The soon-to-open The Suncoast Hotel & Casino in NW Las Vegas is opening soon and most of their slots will be coinless. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/000821/18/leisure-slots While they are counting on it being a hit with locals, industry insiders conjecture (as our poll noted) that tourist wouldn’t warm up to them. For those wondering, we generally don’t cover news involving outlying casinos because the percentage of tourists who make their way away from the Strip or downtown are minute.

$5 FREE GAS – If you drive to town, the 76 station next to Monte Carlo has a coupon for $5 free gas with a $10 purchase. Print the coupon out at http://www.strip76.com/coupon.htm

KARAOKE – The NASCAR Cafe in The Sahara has joined perennial favorite Ellis Island Casino (on Koval, just behind Bally’s) as a hot spot for Karaoke in Las Vegas. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-15-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14151067.html

BEHIND THE SCENES – The Review-Journal did a rare sneak-peak at all that goes into making Mystere a constant sellout at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-22-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14079348.html

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

THE SCORPIONS – The long-surviving heavy metal band is touring playing symphony shows in selected cities including Las Vegas (see Aladdin listing below). Full story at http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/000824/story6.html

SPARKS IN THE PARK – at Desert Breeze Park (Spring Mountain and Durango, far west side of town) features Jon Secada and Michael McDonald as well as food and fireworks this Sat. Sept. 2 from 3-9 PM. Tickets are $10 adult, $5 children and can be purchased at the gate.

Aladdin – Peabo Bryson, Sept. 4-9, The Guess Who on Sept. 9, Chick Corea Sept. 11-16, Iron Maiden, Queensryche, and Halford on Sept. 17, Scorpians w/ Nevada Festival Symphony Orchestra on Sept. 23, Pat Metheny Sept. 25-30, David Sanborn Joe Sample, Counting Crows Oct. 2, Jo Dee Messina on Oct. 6, Richard Bona and Brian Blade Oct. 2-7, Greg Allman Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 13-15, Dr. John Oct. 16-21, Roberta Flack Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 26-28, Afro Cuban All-Stars Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Chuck Mangione Dec. 4-9. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – The Cult on Sept. 2, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, John Haitt on Sept. 9, Don Henley Oct. 10, 311 Oct. 11, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – Howie Mandel Sept. 1-3, Reba McEntire Sept. 14-17, Kenny Rogers Sept. 22-23, Engelbert Humperdinck Sept. 26 – October 1, Face To Face Sept. 30, Steven Wright Oct. 7-8, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman in their “Together Again” tour Oct. 19-21 (return engagement), Sinbad Nov. 2-4, Jeff Foxworthy Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, and Brooks & Dunn Dec. 4-6. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

Mandalay Bay – Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Fishbone on Sept. 9, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Hank Williams III on Sept. 21, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Alice Cooper on Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, Kenny G on Sept. 30, Tonic on Oct. 6, Tiger Jam III (a fundraiser concert for the Tiger Woods Foundation) features Christina Aguilara, Leann Rimes, and Seal on Oct. 7, Peter Frampton Oct. 13, and Moe on Oct. 15. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Rita Rudner now – Sept. 4, Tom Jones Aug. 10-23, Sting on Aug. 19, David Copperfield Aug. 24-30, Tony winning show Cabaret Aug. 30 – Sept. 3, Rodney Dangerfield Aug. 31- Sept. 6, Carrot Top Sept. 7 – 13, Shaolin Monks on Sept. 20-28, Jimmy Buffet on Sept. 29, Frozen Fury 4 pits the L.A. Kings against the Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, U.S. Open of Supercross Oct. 14-15, Pearl Jam on Oct. 22, and Tina Turner with Joe Cocker Nov. 18. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Riviera – Tommy Chong & Bobcat Goldthwait Sept. 1, 2, and 3, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, Jerry Lewis Sept. 7-10, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

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FEATURE STORY: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Legalized Las Vegas sports betting and America’s love of our football makes the fall one of the most exciting times of year here and this year won’t be any different. Monday Night Football is a Las Vegas tradition. From the little corner bars to the big casino sportsbooks, tens of thousands gather to put a few bucks on a team they might not even care about, drink beer, and whoop and holler for their team.

While virtually every casino and bar has some kind of Monday Night Football promotion, here are some notable ones. All are free unless noted, and remember that Monday Night Football starts at 6 PM on the west coast, so get there early to get a good seat and your share of the freebies:

BARLEY’S – This one is away from the tourism areas, but in one of the nicer parts of town and too good a party to ignore: 8′ TV screens, $1.00 12 oz. microbrews, $1.00 pizza, hot dogs, and nachos, and giveaways during every commercial breaks. Barley’s is at 4500 E. Sunset Rd — about a 15-20 minute drive from the Strip.

THE BEACH – Over 40 TV’s including 3 big screens in their 24 hour sportsbar. No cover and a complimentary all-you-can-eat buffet features hamburgers, hot dogs, wings, potato/pasta salads, etc. Beer and shot specials are served by their bikini beauties. Also, prizes and giveaways.

CIRCUS CIRCUS – Their Skyrise Sports Lounge shows the game on a 20′ x 15′ movie screen. The Miller Girls are present, and $3.95 Miller beer specials (that’s a special?!?!?) include a collectible 16 oz. team logo pilsner glass.

FIESTA – holds the party in Roxy’s and features all-u-can-eat pizza, first beer is free, cash prizes, and more. 12′ big screen and over 400 balcony seats. Admission is $6.95 and you must be 21.

HOLY COW – on the Strip across from The Sahara features special food, drink, and raffle prizes during each game as well as a cash bonus on 4-of-a-kind video poker hands during the game (rules are at the cage — I imagine you must be playing the machine max cards, no wild cards).

MAIN ST. STATION – Drawings from cash and prizes each quarter, parlay cards, and food and drink specials. Party held in the brewpub.

PLAZA – The Girls of Glitter Gulch host this party. A $10 betting ticket gets you a free Vienna hot dog, you can watch the game on a giant 9′ x 12′ screen, and they have drawings for prizes and $550 cash.

RIO – Club Rio puts the game on their huge ten foot screens that line the wall and features beer, food, cheerleaders, and prizes. They say you can “win awesome prizes, play video games, smoke fine cigars, and enjoy great food and drink.”

VACATION VILLAGE – Free giveaways every quarter, free parlay card ($200 possible win), free stadium food (peanuts, popcorn, cracker jacks), 50 cent Bud drafts, 50 cent hot dogs, half-time armchair quarterback contest, and ladies drink free in Kookoo’s Bar from 5-10 PM.

Because the majority of Las Vegans are people who relocated from other parts of the country, and we lack our own NFL team, many local bars have “adopted” specific NFL teams (often because the bar owners or management are from that part of the country). These bars not only pledge to show every single game of their specific team, but have food and drink specials as well as giveaways during each game.

The Review Journal just published their yearly detailed list of these bars at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14123757.html You are almost guaranteed a crowd of people from the “home town” for each game.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Marty & Becky Papke wrote:

>We appreciate your newsletter.á I would like to ask a question to the
>readers and yourself.á We are planning a trip to Las Vegas Dec.á 3
>thru the 8’th which is the National Rodeo Finals week and we would like
>to know what entertainers – will be performing.á If there is a link
>that shows this information, please send the information to us.á We
>also would like to know the details of Sam’s Town construction I had
>heard they are having a grand opening at end of November and will be
>having special entertainers celebrating.á Can you also let us know
>this information.á Thanks for the help!á Really appreciate your
>newsletter.

Continue to both follow our newsletter as well as checking the Events page at http://www.accessvegas.com/events.htm as the time gets closer. I usually don’t report on off-strip properties, but do make an exception for Sam’s Town and NFR because of Sam’s Town’s historically country theme. The renovations are moving along nicely and we will have a report on their plans for NFR as soon as they become known.

Roger Radjeski of Seminole, Florida wrote:

>Only 15 minutes west of Vegas is Red Rock Canyon.á For a mere $5.00
>you can drive your car on the trail and stop and explore the
>wilderness, mountains and canyons.á One hour away is Hoover Dam, and
>two and a half hours away is Death Valley.á What a waste our trip
>would have been had we not gone these places.á Oh yes we did visit the
>”old Strip” for a $4.99 prime rib and a walk in the covered mall.á The
>thing that bothered me the most was the smoking.á There are “NO NON
>SMOKING AREAS!”á What a shame to be polluted by Second Hand Smoke!
>Glad that the tip we left for the girl that cleaned our room for three
>days was more than we spent in all gambling, $5.oo.á The pan handlers
>were a real bother, luckily none seemed to have any identification on
>them that they were willing to show me.á They didn’t get anything from
>me but a “NO!”á Oh yes, we also went to the mountains, a ski area is
>only 2 hours north.á Many people visit Vegas, and miss the Real
>Sights!

With so much to do on the Strip and downtown, we tend not to spend a lot of time covering other activities this area offers because most people aren’t interested in exploring. However, we are finishing a Hoover Dam report, and people that are on their 4’th or 5’th Las Vegas visits often do rent a car to go explore some of the natural and man made wonders. We do maintain a list of Non-Gambling Attractions at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm

With Las Vegas, you take the good with the bad. Those from areas where every little aspect of life is regulated might find it bothersome that we don’t have tighter smoking laws and the like. But, Las Vegas is very much determined by supply and demand: if smoke bothers you (I am a nonsmoker but have learned to live with the air in some of the casinos), patronize those properties you feel have the cleanest air.

David N. of Panama City, FL wrote:

>Ted: I don’t know about balconies on the Strip, but for a panoramic
>view, I don’t think anything could top the one my wife and I had on
>our first visit: high up the Plaza tower, facing south toward the
>Stratosphere and Strip.á Fantastic!

Karolina from Chicago, IL wrote:

>I have to say that I really enjoy reading the Review and I’m always
>looking forward to it.á I will be in Vegas Sept.á 23-27 and would
>love to see a concert, but sadly nothing that would interest me is
>going on (I’m a 24 year old female who doesn’t like rap or country.)
>As for one of the letters from the readers, I have to say that Denny’s
>(next to MGM) really sucks.á The service is horrible, I also had to
>get my own refills and when I asked them to heat up the syrup for my
>pancakes, they said that they cannot do that!á Finally after I got to
>talk to a manager, he took care of it but commented that they aren’t
>supposed to be doing that…á What’s up with that?á Otherwise my
>memories are pleasant and just wanted to say “hello” to all the
>readers!

I too appreciate the comfort of eating at places we are familiar with. On my recent FL trip, I was tempted to do the “tried and true” but instead dined at restaurants that were unique to the area and I challenge visitors to Las Vegas to do the same. While this is a broad generalization, workers at the chain franchises are usually at the lowest end of the scale.

The casinos tend to pay better, provide better benefits, etc., and you are more likely to get better food and service in hotel restaurants, even if it’s just the coffee shop. (The food courts generally don’t count — they are franchised out.) Plus, keep your eyes open — many hotels have some pretty good food specials advertised on their reader boards outside and signs throughout the property!

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ONLINE POLL – “Who and when do you tip on a big slot win?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

DROOG.COM – is sending one person plus three friends to push the detonator on an actual implosion here in Las Vegas (rumors are still circulating which building is getting imploded, but we will let you know the minute we know). Go to http://www.droog.com and click on the DETONATE link to enter.

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New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 23, 2000

Posted on August 23, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

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This Issue: Aladdin Grand Opening

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:FOOD TV – is having the “Food Event of the Year.” Live cooking demos by Food Network personalities, samples of a wide variety of dishes from Las Vegas’ hottest restaurants, and a chance to be part of an Emeril TV special that will air Sept. 30 are just a few of the festivities taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Sept. 17. Tickets are $30 and available at (800) 949-CHEFREAGAN NATIONAL – America West and National Airlines are both running special introductory fares in conjunction with their new service from Reagan National airport to Las Vegas. Info on these fares at:

America West – http://news.excite.com/news/pr/000814/az-awa-wash-natl-svc
National Airlines – http://www.frommers.com/newsletters/08-14-00/article2.html

ELVIS – RCA has now released the three-CD Elvis Presley box set “That’s The Way It Is,” which includes a significant amount of material recorded in Las Vegas. Review is at http://www.spokane.net/news-story-body.asp?Date=081600&ID=s838912&cat= and it is available from Amazon at discount:

CD Long Box – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004TZCI/invegascom
CD Box Set – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004TZCK/invegascom

HOOVER DAM – Mike Kelly of the Toledo Blade wrote a very humorous article about his bus tour to see the “Star’s Homes” and Hoover Dam at http://www.toledoblade.com/editorial/kelly/0h15kell.htm It’s a read that most Vegas visitors will appreciate.

LANCE BURTON – The Evansville Courier & Press did a nice story on the now infamous Las Vegas magician at http://www.courierpress.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?200008/14+vegas081400_news.html+20000814 More info on his is available at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?ID=21&amid=143&cscheme=5

MY VACATION – Where do you vacation when you live in Las Vegas? I had an enjoyable week in Destin/Ft. Walton, FL enjoying the white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. This area truly is a best kept secret. A big thumbs-up to the Ramada Resort down there ( http://www.ramadafwb.com ) for their great service and beautiful setting. My condolences to those who regularly have to fly Delta through Atlanta. What a joke, especially the Delta Connection. They own Atlanta and they don’t care. AirTran — please start serving Las Vegas so I can enjoy more of the Southeast affordably!

$25 HOTEL REBATE – Extended to any reservation made in August (for travel any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Go to http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm and print out that page
2. Book a room online at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC by August 31
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee to boot!

WINNERS! – Keith B. Stolz of Houston, TX, Matt Tornes of Marietta, OH, Bruce Olsen of Port Orchard, WA and Mark Carrothers of New Philadelphia, OH were the winners of Doc’s 2000 Complete Season Sports Journal.

Quick Concert and Show Notes:See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143áJERRY LEWIS – has just signed a 20 year deal to play The Orleans hotel (about 7 minutes west of the Strip on Tropicana). There is conjecture whether this is for real, or somewhat of a publicity stunt given the mediocre crowd count at his last run, and the scheduling of his next run during a slower week. But, if this does turn into a permanent run, we’ll review it.

Aladdin – The Duke Ellington Orchestra under the direction of Paul Mercer Ellington Aug. 27, Cassandra Wilson, Aug. 28 -Sept. 2, Peabo Bryson, Sept. 4-9, The Guess Who on Sept. 9, Chick Corea Sept. 11-16, Scorpians w/ Nevada Festival Symphony Orchestra on Sept. 23, Pat Metheny Sept. 25-30, David Sanborn Joe Sample, Richard Bona and Brian Blade Oct. 2-7, Greg Allman Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 13-15, Dr. John Oct. 16-21, Roberta Flack Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 26-28, Afro Cuban All-Stars Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Chuck Mangione Dec. 4-9. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – Mary J. Blige on Aug. 26, The Cult on Sept. 2, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, John Haitt on Sept. 9, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Mandalay Bay – Duran Duran Aug. 25-26, Isaac Hayes Aug. 25-26, Jethro Tull Aug. 27, Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, Kenny G on Sept. 30, and Tonic on Oct. 6. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

Riviera – Tommy Chong & Bobcat Goldthwait Sept. 1,2, and 3, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – Smothers Brothers Aug. 25-27, The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Up In Smoke tour featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, and Eminem on Aug. 11, Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

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FEATURE STORY: Aladdin Grand Opening

I’m running a little late, but so was the opening of the Aladdin! Thursday night came and went, with the casino not yet passing fire inspection. Upwards of 20,000 people were disappointed as the fireworks were postponed and only the Desert Passage shopping area was open to the public for a few hours. Guests were moved to other hotels, but to their credit, the Aladdin only rented out a few hundred rooms the first night, and increased the number of available rooms by a few hundred each evening as they ramp up.

By midmorning on Friday, the casino was open and the last of the current casino building boom on the Strip was officially over. The Aladdin clocked in at around $1.4 billion with 2600 rooms and the 500,000 sq. ft. Desert Passage — the Strip is now lined with casinos from Mandalay Bay to Treasure Island.

The main gaming area has an incredibly high ceiling, and for once a gaming property put it to good use. Casinos like New York, New York and Paris used the height to build facades, but gave little opportunity to offer a balcony perspective of the gaming area to guests. Aladdin put their lounge up a level on a mezzanine, giving you a nice reprieve from the gaming area, and a wonderful open feeling as well.

In addition, the third level rings much of the casino. This level features a number of high end restaurants and a somewhat intimite bar featuring a fantastic view of the gaming floor. It also features The London Club, a seperate posh high-end casino. A weekday visit showed table game minimums at The London Club starting at $25. A few $1 slot and video poker machines are available, but most are $5 and up. If those limits are your style, treat yourself to a little gaming up here. It truly is a cut above.

Much thought was put into challenging hotel/casino norms to give the guests a better experience. The hotel has an extra bank of elevators, so that you will never be more than 7 doors away from an elevator. And (gasp!) you don’t have to trek through the casino to get from check-in (which is one floor below the casino) to your rooms. Just walk over to the bank of elevators and you can zoom up to your floor.

Other unusual things to pamper guests: The Aladdin has installed high speed internet access in every room, and by this fall every room will be outfitted with it’s own computer, connected to their high speed lines letting you surf the web and check email. If you order room service, get ready to get it quick. They have outfitted two elevators as moving kitchens, with continental breakfast items as well as beverages.

The Review-Journal has done a nice run-down of the 19 new restaurants at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14178587.html We enjoyed the buffet yesterday evening. Lines were short at 6 PM. The atmosphere is standard (my personal favorites in that category are Bellagio and Main St. Station buffets), but the $18.95 dinner was top-notch with unusual offerings like Middle Eastern food, a fantastic compliment of fresh seafood, as well as the standard cuisine featured at most “food station” buffets.

Desert Passage is huge! It has two legs running along both sides of the hotel and circles the entire Performing Arts Center as well. You can enter the Passage directly from the street, bypassing the casino. Bring your wallet: this high-end mall features 130 upscale and specialty stores and boutiques from all over the world. They have brought in performers and entertainers from around the globe to perform free for the public in the Passage. Full story on that at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14139735.html

Two disappointments: The manufactured rainstorm isn’t really much. It takes place every 20 minutes in the area of the mall where wooden planks surround a small body of water. “Lightning” flashes and a much too loud and tinny sounding thunder (put in a subwoofer and turn up the rumble) plays while rain pours down from the ceiling into the water. For best effect, view it from one end or the other so you can really see the sheets of rain. Also, valet parking was a beef with me: if you turn into the parking garage and follow the valet signs, you end up (without warning) in the valet for Desert Passage, NOT for the hotel. The difference? They want $2 (not including gratuity) to park there. Enter the main hotel entrance from Harmon to find the real valet parking.

Those who love Jazz or just good food will applaud the addition of a Blue Note jazz club to Las Vegas at The Aladdin. We have not had a chance to check it out, but two great stories are at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14172753.html and http://www.lvcitylife.com/Music/stories/00081701m.html

I’ve placed 4 pages of photos online at http://www.accessvegas.com/aladdin These aren’t PR photos, but my “man on the street” photos taken yesterday throughout the property. Please excuse the quality of some of the indoor shots as they suffered from lack of light. If you own a digital camera that performs well in low light (beyond the flash), fill me in at allvegastv@aol.com as I’m looking around and would love some suggestions!

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CORRECTION: The address of our Shark Reef review with photos last issue was an error. That review is archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-12.htm

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Michelle D. from Texas wrote:

>Dear Ted:
>
>We recently returned from a trip to Vegas.á We had a great time with
>friends, but I must say the four of us that traveled together were
>shocked at the service we received virtually everywhere.
>
>Our first difficulty was at the Stratosphere.á The woman at the
>entrance insinuated that we would not want to dine in The Top of the
>World restaurant because of the prices.á The woman running the
>elevator was rude and sarcastic.á Our waitress at the restaurant was
>the nicest person in the whole place (her name was Linda).á We won t
>be going back there anytime soon.
>
>The next was at the Denny s on The Strip next to the MGM.
>Unbelievable!á They were not using the entire restaurant, so they were
>evidently understaffed.á However, that is no excuse for rudeness and
>lack of service.á A person in our party had to go FIND the waitress
>for drink refills.á She did not bring them.á Also, when we got our
>food (one hour after we were seated) it was cold.á Some of the food
>had to be reheated to be edible.á When the waitress did finally come
>to check on us and she asked if everything was OK.á We told her no.
>Her response?á Did we need more napkins?á As I saidáá unbelievable!
>
>Lastly, at our hotel, (NY, NY) we ate at America our last morning
>there.á Our waitress immediately took the orders for coffee, but the
>two of us not drinking coffee were put off.á She came back to take our
>food order and we told her we d like to order the rest of our drinks
>first.á She had a very bad attitude the rest of the meal.
>
>We visited Vegas this same time last year and did not encounter these
>problems.á The impression we got from most of the service persons we
>encountered was that they resent tourists.á We decided if that was the
>case, these people are living in the wrong town.á I don t think Vegas
>would be the great place it is, and becoming, without tourists.
>
>I love reading the AccessVegas newsletter and look forward to it every
>week.á You gave me a lot of good information for our trip.á Thanks and
>keep up the great work!

Thanks for the kind words regarding the newsletter! Interesting you should mention this, as service in Las Vegas was the topic during a Sunday brunch I had with good friends last week, as well as some of the Las Vegas message boards. I regret to say that workers in this town are making so much money, and there is such a pull on the labor market, that good help is hard to find and much of the help that exists doesn’t care.

If you have a negative experience here, I strongly suggest you do two things:

1. Write the hotel immediately when you get home. Detail as specific as possible the problems. Complaint letters have netted me comps for future use. They want you back.

2. DON’T TIP IF THE SERVICE IS BAD! We have valet parking attendants, bartenders, cocktail waitresses, etc., making upwards of $75,000 a year here at the nice places (and some even more). Don’t let them bully you into thinking that their tip is a birthright. Vote with your wallet.

Chris Bunch ( from England which is a small island to the east
of Boston!!á ) wrote:

>I read with horror that you are to do away with the concert listings.
>Where on earth did you do your research?á Have you checked the
>percentage of foreign subscribers ( like myself ) who do not have a
>”local hockey pitch” being constantly visited by touring artists.á We
>definitely do need to be kept informed, in fact after the cheap hotel
>rooms it is probably the second most important item together with the
>restaurant reviews.á I am sorry that a lot of your readers have a very
>short attention span but that surely is not a good enough reason to
>cut out what is a most useful item.á Please don’t make the mistake
>that so many Americans make and believe that the world ends at your
>shores ….. there are quite a few of us out here and we are coming in
>increasing numbers to your city.

I left Chris’ humorous description of where he lives intact! For now, we won’t make any changes. When we do take the concert listings out of the newsletter, we’ll put them on a webpage and link them in every newsletter. One of the things I am very proud of is that we have readers in over 40 countries around the world!

Jean Haka of Waukesha, WI wrote:

>Could you, please, compile a listing OR direct me to an internet
>listing of daily slot tournaments in Las Vegas on the strip.á (Maybe
>later you could expand to include other parts of the city.á .á .á .á .
>.but maybe the locals know where they are already!) Or it you know of
>several main ones, maybe you could list them in your next newsletter
>and then invite others to share what they know.á Thanks.á .á .á hope
>I’m not asking for too big an order here!

Keeping up on that with my resources if prohibitive, but we have linked a couple of lists toward the bottom of http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-gambling-online.htm If anyone knows of additional web pages with tournament information, please let us know at allvegastv@aol.com

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FREE CONTESTS:Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.ALADDIN IMPLOSION VIDEO – I watch the implosions in person, but always have 2 VCR’s running at home to catch the extensive local news coverage of these historic events. I’ll dub off two copies of the full coverage by KTNV and give them away to the 20’th and 30’th entry at (contest closed) I regret that I can’t produce or sell these for profit to all interested. However, there is a great commercial tape including implosions of the Landmark, Sands, Hacienda and the Aladdin available from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004SP9X/invegascom

THE FLYAWAY GETAWAY – BroadcastAmerica.Com and American Airlines are giving away two free round-trip tickets to anywhere American Airlines flies in the United States (this includes Las Vegas)! Includes 7 days and 6 nights hotel accommodations, and $1,000 in cash. Enter at http://www.broadcastamerica.com/giveaway/americanairlines/

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