AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

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AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials Las Vegas Hotels Las Vegas Shows Headliners and Concerts Las Vegas Deals Access Vegas Twitter Feed Access Vegas Facebook Fan Page Las Vegas Photos

Featured Shows Jersey Boys Million Dollar Quartet Rock Of Ages Absinthe

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Las Vegas Bars and Nightlife

McFadden’s At Town Square Works For The Weekend With Friday And Saturday Weekly Specials – McFaddenÆs Restaurant and Saloon at Town Square Las Vegas will raise a glass to the weekend with Lucky Ladies Night on Fridays and Smoke Bomb Saturdays.

Every Friday night, McFaddenÆs will treat the ladies of Las Vegas to complimentary champagne and their first drink free. One lucky lady will also be given the opportunity to win $500 through a series of bar challenges. All day Saturday, guests can nosh on $8 Smoke Show burgers, featuring Guinness barbeque sauce, cheddar cheese and crispy onion straws, and cheers with $5 bombs from the specialty ôbombsö menu. Patrons looking to let loose from the work week can also celebrate at McFaddenÆs daily happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. with half-priced drinks and appetizers.

• Full story/details/info: McFadden’s Friday And Saturday Specials

• Revel In Endless Bubbles With Culinary DropoutÆs Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Inside Hard Rock Hotel
• Pub 1842 pushes past the typical bar experience
• Belt out your favorite songs accompanied by dueling pianos
• Ghostbar at the Palms appears again after renovations
• Dollar beer night at Cashman Field taps a younger crowd

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Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

• Starlet Claire Sinclair Shows More In StratosphereÆs Pin Up
  Book Pin Up Las Vegas Tickets Now
• Frank MarinoÆs Divas Las Vegas channels musicÆs biggest personalities
  Book Frank MarinoÆs Divas Las Vegas Tickets Now
• Characters come to life in Cirque du SoleilÆs homage to the Fab Four
  Book Beatles Love Las Vegas Tickets Now
• Popular singer Eydie Gorme dies in Las Vegas at 84

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Gambling, Gaming, And Sportsbooks

• In blackjack, why can you only hit aces once after a split?
• Brush Up On Your Sports Betting Lingo For Football Season
• Are Slot Results Affected by Time of Day?
• Best Las Vegas Sports Books û Plaza Sports Book Review

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Dining In Las Vegas

Step Into the Fire And Savor Hot New Menu Items At Gordon Ramsay BurGR – Gordon Ramsay BurGR has quickly become one of Las VegasÆ hottest new restaurants, and now itÆs even hotter. Recently igniting its flame wall at the entrance to the restaurant, guests now get a sense of the intensity they are about to experience in Chef Gordon RamsayÆs fiery menu creations right when they walk in. With bold new additions, the BurGR menu continues to take the traditional burger, fries and milkshake comfort food combination to an entirely new level.

• Full story/details/info: Hot New Menu Items At Gordon Ramsay BurGR

Bellagio Continues Tradition Of Extraordinary Culinary Events With Epicurean Epicenter Series – Bellagio, recipient of 14 consecutive AAA Five Diamond Awards, announces the remaining events for the 2013 Epicurean Epicenter Series. The resortÆs legendary chefs continue to create unforgettable culinary experiences, coupled with perfectly paired wines by the resortÆs talented wine team.

The unparalleled series, from interactive cooking classes to exclusive wine and beer pairing dinners, features Bellagio as a culinary arts leader, consistently developing new, fun and educational events that inspire guests and provide lasting memories.

• Full story/details/info: Bellagio’s Epicurean Epicenter Series

• MGM Resorts International Restaurants Cook For A Cause In Support Of Las Vegas Restaurant Week
• A Look Around Bally’s New(ish) Food Court
• Eiffel Tower, Top of the World and Mandarin Bar named among best restaurant views in U.S.
• Sustainable seafood advocate Rick Moonen sets his sights on a steampunk-inspired gastronomic wonderland
• Twelve Caesars Entertainment Restaurants Proudly Take Part In Three Square’s Restaurant Week Plus Special Bacchanal Buffet Kick-Off Celebration

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Las Vegas Hotels

• Inside a Deluxe King Room at Mandalay Bay
• A Night At Silver Sevens (formerly Terribles)

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Las Vegas Attractions

• Rock Memories – Warwick StoneÆs living collection at the Hard Rock Hotel is always evolving
• Become a Vegas expert by checking out these must-see attractions
• Basketball Memorabilia On Display At Wynn

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Bad Boys, Bad Boys! What ‘Cha Gonna Do?

• Zero Tolerance cleaning up I-15 between Las Vegas and California
• Police Officer on leave after shooting man on Strip
• Speeding Las Vegas-bound motorists learning to brake a bad habit

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Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

• Las Vegas tourism dips slightly in first half of 2013
• Home Construction Picking Up in Las Vegas Valley

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Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

• Labor Day Weekend Las Vegas 2013 (August 30 – September 2)
• Football Season Las Vegas 2013

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The Dreamer Airplane Tour û Grand Canyon South Rim tours begin with a 40-minute picturesque flight on an airplane. This ultimate excursion allows you to explore the stunning Grand Canyon by airplane, helicopter and foot. Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon National Park Airport you are welcomed aboard a state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an awe-inspiring flight.

Our vessels are here for your comfort. An air tour of the Grand Canyon is one of the most unique ways to see one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. This combo tour of the Grand Canyon also provides you with a ground-level perspective of this natural wonder. Venture onto the scenic trails and various overlooks of the Grand Canyon South Rim. Enjoy a gourmet box lunch amid the breathtaking scenery.

Click To Book The Dreamer Airplane Tour Now!

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Top Tickets For All United States Events

Did you know that we not only sell premium concert and event tickets for Las Vegas, but also for the entire United States as well? If you can’t make it to Vegas, treat yourself to some great seats for something near you:

Most Popular Sports Tickets	Most Popular Concert Tickets
US Open Tennis Tickets	Backstreet Boys Tickets
NFL Tickets	Beyonce Tickets
– Dallas Cowboys Tickets	Bruno Mars Tickets
– New Orleans Saints Tickets	Celine Dion Tickets
– New York Giants Tickets	Honda Civic Tour Tickets
Baseball Tickets	Jimmy Buffet Tickets
– New York Yankees Tickets	John Mayer Tickets
– Los Angeles Angels Tickets	Justin Timberlake Tickets
NBA Tickets	Keith Urban Tickets
– Miami HEAT Tickets	Kenny Chesney Tickets
– Los Angeles Clippers Tickets	Lil Wayne Tickets
NHL Tickets	Luke Bryan Tickets
– Pittsburgh Penguins Tickets	Pearl Jam Tickets
– Nashville Predators Tickets	Taylor Swift Tickets
College Football Tickets	Zac Brown Band Tickets

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Newkirk’s Notes: The Boss Speaks…

Newkirk’s Notes are comments and insight from AccessVegas.Com publisher and 20+ year Las Vegas resident Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Wow, Labor Day is just around the corner, and many of you in the cooler climates will be kissing the warm weather goodbye and settling into fall. For us here in Las Vegas, we’re looking forward to our second “summer” of the year. September averages 94 F, October 81 (which many would consider perfect), and November drops down to 67 (chilly for us desert rats, but perfect for many).

I like to suggest an early November vacation to those of you who live where it is getting pretty cold and cloudy in your neck of the woods and ready to still get a dose of warmth and sunshine. Not to mention for you sports fans, football season and betting is in full swing!

Beginning Of The Club Scene Decline – Buried at the end of a local newspaper column by Doug Elfman, he noted that he’s heard some of these famous club DJ’s aren’t packing the house lately. While clubs will never go away, are we seeing a crack in this trend which has taken over Las Vegas the past 10 years or so? Are we going to see a return to more live music? Is Las Vegas going to start realizing that the AVERAGE age of our visitors is nearly 50 years old?

Trains Going Nowhere – The Las Vegas to Victorville (or Palmdale, CA) high speed train that was to be funded by a multi-billion dollar federal government loan guarantee looks to be derailed. A few Senators sobered up long enough to realize how completely ridiculous this concept was and what a long-shot it would be for the train to make enough to pay off the federal loan. Nevada Senator Harry Reid is a big backer of the project and claims it isn’t dead.

In the meantime, the XTrain (a conventional, luxury train running from Los Angeles to Las Vegas) seems to have delay after delay after delay. Which is unfortunate, as we’re fans of that one. If the XTrain doesn’t get off the ground, here’s an idea for Reid: How about taking a tiny fraction of the “Train To Nowhere” money and re-starting Amtrak service between L.A. and Las Vegas to see if it flies. We have the most powerful Senator in the U.S. and is home city doesn’t even have Amtrak service. Try it for a year and see if it breaks even (or makes money). You can always kill it if it fails. If we want to really look toward the future of high-speed ground transportation…

Hyperlooping To Vegas – Revolutionary car designer Elon Musk (he created that all-electric Tesla that ended up being the car of the year last year) has made plans available for a high-speed tube that would take people from L.A. to San Francisco in 30 minutes, with extensions visioned to Las Vegas. For those of you old enough, think about those air-powered tubes banks had (or maybe still have) to get your documents from outside into the teller. We love the idea. But funding and construction probably makes it a couple of decades off.

It would open up a whole new world to Vegas visitors. We’re sometimes asked about day trips to Hollywood or Disneyland by people who don’t realize how great distances are here in the Western U.S. (Southern California is a 1/2 day drive away, making a day trip over there unworkable). This would made that day trip workable, and give us Las Vegas locals a chance to do a day at the beach!

Hope you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

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What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

• Vacation Las Vegas: Treasure Island, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, POV New York-New York Rollercoaster, More! – Let this fun-loving couple give you a video tour Chrissy and Dave take you along on the highlights of their vacation. If you are missing Las Vegas right now, this is a must watch right now!
• Liberace Music Video And Entrance 1981 – We recently reported on the sale of Liberace’s Las Vegas home (Google Maps: http://goo.gl/maps/CvdWY ). This archival video of his show opening montage includes a look inside this very flamboyant home during his heyday along with his first few minutes on stage.
• Gordon Ramsay BurGR Inside Planet Hollywood – Take a behind the scenes tour with Executive Chef Eric Mickle and get a peek at some of the many gastronomical delights it offers in a fun, casual vibe. Then watch them create the signature “Hell’s Kitchen” burger.

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Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted, You wrote about the major hotels losing money and I am again just perplexed at this. Why if they are losing money don’t they cater more to the average (poorer smuck) like me and my friends???

We all started going there in the early 90’s during that boom. We would go once or twice a year, every year. Hotels were fun, themed and it was always an allure to go see the next ‘new’ place. Now its all boutique hotels with most of the emphasis on high end shopping, high end night clubs, high end dinning, high end everything.

Now me and most of my friends don’t bother going as Vegas has changed so much, we don’t feel real welcomed there.

How many millions (or billions) of dollars is Las Vegas not earning now that they have crowded us out?? We go now to Indian run casinos where we can find cheap loose slots, lower limit table games and food that we can afford to eat. I miss the old Las Vegas.

And for kids and strollers in Las Vegas, we did that two years ago to show my kids where we got married and it was fun for about a day and half. Then we ran out of kid friendly things to do. But we kept them out of the way, out of casinos, other than to get to our room and a restaurant. It can work, but just for a short time frame.

Ed from Manchester, MI

 

Ted Responds:

Please don’t shoot the messenger with this answer. For better or worse, I’m just telling you the way that it is.

Like many American companies, the hotels are now run by bean counters who are trying to maximize stock prices. The vision is generally about the short term. They are also saddled by debt from money borrowed and spent during the boom that didn’t pay off when things went bust. They are riding the fine line of squeezing every penny they can out of everything they possibly can just to stay afloat (in some cases).

I believe this is one reason visitation is flat year-over-year so far. (Granted, we were just shy of a new record last year). When you come and book a $49 room then get hit with high food prices, high drink prices, and (for many) an unexpected resort fee, that leaves a bad taste in your mouth. I also believe that the de-theming is playing a role. Las Vegas has lost some of that magical “Adult Disneyland” feel and I’m not sure why this is lost on the upper management making these decisions.

People are rebelling. They still come, but they buy a cheap cooler when they get here, keep it stocked with beer in their room, buy bottles of liquor to keep in their room, keep a bunch of snack and easy-to-prepare food on hand, and order out. (Hint: Pizza Hut will deliver to your hotel in Las Vegas. You do need to meet the driver at a designated place and have your credit card and ID on you). Eat and booze in your room some of the time, and Las Vegas just got a whole lot cheaper. Use the money you save to go enjoy a show!

Your area Michigan casinos (in many cases) are not riding a mountain of debt. ALSO, in many cases, you are a captive audience. You drove an hour to get there. If you lose a quick $100, are you just going to turn around and drive home? Probably not. Is there the Fountains of Bellagio to go enjoy while you hope your luck turns? No. When you combine the captive gaming audience and less debt, you can offer better prices and odds.

We are looking forward to the Resorts World casino opening in a couple years on the old Stardust property. The owners know what they are doing. They are going for the middle of the market and doing an intense Asian theme. If they are successful, maybe some of their neighbors will take notice. Just as the “family friendly” era of Las Vegas is looked back upon as a mistake, we believe that the recent era of de-theming and tighter gambling odds will one day be looked upon as a mistake.

Speaking of family friendly, I did note that there are some instances where you have to bring a child to Las Vegas. It works if you are responsible and put the child’s interests above your own. Otherwise, save it for their 21’st birthday!

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

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

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

---

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials Las Vegas Hotels Las Vegas Shows Headliners and Concerts Las Vegas Deals Access Vegas Twitter Feed Access Vegas Facebook Fan Page Las Vegas Photos

Featured Shows Million Dollar Quartet Rock Of Ages Absinthe Jersey Boys

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Labor Day Las Vegas 2013

Cabo Wabo Cantina Rocks Labor Day Weekend With Giveaways – Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will wrap up summer with a weekend-long party starting on Friday, August 31, 2013 through Monday, September 2, 2013.

• Full story/details/info: Cabo Wabo Cantina Rocks Labor Day Weekend

Park On Fremont To Win The Blue Ribbon With Labor Day Specials And Free Beer – Park on Fremont will pay tribute to an American tradition with a Labor Day beer and burger special, available from Friday, August 30, until Monday, September 2, 2013. Guests will receive a complimentary 16-ounce can of Pabst Blue Ribbon with the purchase of any of the hot spotÆs mouthwatering burger selections such as…

• Full story/details/info: Park On Fremont Labor Day Specials

• Free Concert Featuring Rock Legend Vince Neil Labor Day Weekend At Treasure Island Pool
• PBR Rock Bar Works Hard For Labor Day Drink Specials

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Gambling And Gaming

• The Truth About Blackjack Side Bets
• Do Your Choices in Slot Machine Bonus Rounds Matter?
• Money Management for All Types of Players
• Top-10 ways to add variety to your Hold’em home game

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Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman Enjoys Absinthe – Adding to the lineup of well-known celebrities to experience the StripsÆ hottest show Absinthe at Caesars Palace, Boyz II Men member Shawn Stockman was spotted enjoying the hilarious antics from the showÆs host The Gazillionaire, his raucous sidekick Penny Pibbets, The Green Fairy, Melody Sweets and the rest of the eccentric cast of Absinthe on August 8. Stockman was so captivated by the harmonious voice of The Green Fairy, Melody Sweets that he stayed after to snap photos with the cast.

• Full story/details/info: Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman Enjoys Absinthe
• Buy Tickets Now: Absinthe
• Buy Tickets Now: Boyz II Men

Stratosphere Headliner Claire Sinclair Attends Jersey Boys at Paris Las Vegas – Claire Sinclair, star of ôPin Upö at Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower, attended Jersey Boys at Paris Las Vegas yesterday evening, July 31, 2013. Following the performance Sinclair went backstage to meet the cast and also stayed for a photo.

Jersey Boys is the #1 Rated Show in Las Vegas and the ôMust see show of the year!ö according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The musical phenomenon Jersey Boys, the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons at Paris Las Vegas is the only place on the West Coast to see this runaway hit that has taken Las Vegas by storm. Jersey Boys is the story of how a group of blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time.

• Full story/details/info: Claire Sinclair Attends Jersey Boys
• Buy Tickets Now: Jersey Boys
• Buy Tickets Now: Pin Up

• Absinthe high-wire performers show bravery and skill

  Book Absinthe Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Falling Under The Spell Of ‘Comedy Hypnosis’

  Book Comedy Hypnosis Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Human Nature: Then And Now

  Book Human Nature Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Britney Spears to take a piece of the pie

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Las Vegas Attractions

• Coming soon: Six features of the Linq
• Going VIP Behind The Scenes At the Dolphin Habitat
• Getting Linq’d In On The Linq: The Timeline, The Tenants, The Map
• Mega Disney Store Opens At Fashion Show Mall

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Dining In Las Vegas

Watch Out Coffee, Tea is Back In Las Vegas – The classic cup of coffee that has long accompanied a light snack or a fine meal is now making room for the resurgence of a familiar palate pleaser: tea. Extravagant tea services combine flavorful choices and soothing relief to provide a peaceful respite. Featuring a variety of flavors with organic components and healing properties, tea is returning to tables as an interactive and personalized experience.

The final touch to an epic meal, the Tea Infusions Trolley at JoÙl Robuchon Restaurant at MGM Grand goes above and beyond expectations.

• Full story/details/info: Watch Out Coffee, Tea is Back In Las Vegas

New Menu Items And Specials Elevate Dining Experience At Buffets Within Caesars Entertainment Resorts – The wide variety of buffets within Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas resorts introduce unique additions to their extensive existing menus as well as special deals in celebration of summer. Below are brief descriptions of the hot summer buffet dining options at Caesars EntertainmentÆs citywide resorts.

• Full story/details/info: New Menu Items And Specials Elevate Dining Experience At Buffets

• Fleur By Hubert Keller And Tenaya Creek Brewery Hold Beer Pairing Dinner
• Silverton Casino Hotel celebrates Fall Restaurant Week
• Bonefish Grill and Golden Nugget Sharks Alive
• Cheap eats 3: Happy hour meal deals
• It’s The Little Things, Too, At Carmine’s
• Larger-than-life CarmineÆs is right at home in Las Vegas
• Among New Pizzerias, Five50 Stands Out

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Las Vegas Economy And Real Estate

• Another report confirms Nevada leads U.S. in home price gains
• Home prices soaring, inventory shrinking: Is Las Vegas back in a real estate bubble?
• Veer Towers offers a Vegas Strip address

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More Las Vegas News

• æWheel of FortuneÆ with Pat Sajak and Vanna White spins at the Venetian this week (with video) (with video)
• Poplife Dance Party Has A New Home With 80’s And 90’s Classics
• Football Fans Score At Heraea Inside Palms This Season
• Friends remember Eydie Gorme’s talent and wit
• Don’t Be Quick To Dismiss Hotel Shuttles
• Drink Too Much In Las Vegas? There’s A Spa For You

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Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

• Labor Day Weekend Las Vegas 2013
  (August 30 – September 2)

 

• Football Season Las Vegas 2013

 

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Canyon Air Express Helicopter Tour û Your Grand Canyon helicopter trip begins in the Las Vegas Valley where you will board a luxurious ECO-Star helicopters. As you ascend above the valley you will see rock formations and gullies, leading up to Fortification Hill, an extinct and illusive volcano. The tour continues towards the vast and bountiful Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake in the United States.

Click To Book Canyon Air Express Helicopter Tour Now!

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Top Tickets For All United States Events

Did you know that we not only sell premium concert and event tickets for Las Vegas, but also for the entire United States as well? If you can’t make it to Vegas, treat yourself to some great seats for something near you:

Most Popular Sports Tickets	Most Popular Concert Tickets
US Open Tennis Tickets	Beyonce Tickets
NFL Tickets	Bruno Mars Tickets
– Dallas Cowboys Tickets	Honda Civic Tour Tickets
– New Orleans Saints Tickets	Jason Aldean Tickets
– San Francisco 49ers Tickets	John Mayer Tickets
Baseball Tickets	Justin & Jay-Z Tickets
– New York Yankees Tickets	Justin Timberlake Tickets
– Los Angeles Angels Tickets	Keith Urban Tickets
NBA Tickets	Lil Wayne Tickets
– Miami HEAT Tickets	Luke Bryan Tickets
– Los Angeles Clippers Tickets	Michael Buble Tickets
NHL Tickets	Pearl Jam Tickets
– Pittsburgh Penguins Tickets	Taylor Swift Tickets
– Nashville Predators Tickets	Train Tickets
College Football Tickets	Zac Brown Band Tickets

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Newkirk’s Notes: The Boss Speaks…

Newkirk’s Notes are comments and insight from AccessVegas.Com publisher and 20+ year Las Vegas resident Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – The wacky weather (record highs, thunderstorms, power outages, casinos flooding) seems to be a thing of the past, and we’re settling in for average the next couple of weeks. Highs around 105 F with the overnight low around 80. Still a bit too toasty for some, but I personally prefer it to the chilly, short days of winter.

The Biggest Loser – Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and The Cosmopolitan all posted second-quarter losses. Caesars Entertainment lost $212.2 million, MGM Resorts tanked $145.5 million, and the Cosmo (which is basically a foreclosed on, bank-owned property) lost just a little over $25 million — about $280,000 per DAY. On one property! That amount will buy you a 3000 sq. ft. home in a nice Las Vegas neighborhood.

What does that mean to you? At the end of the day, these companies are most likely going to hold the line on tighter slots, bad blackjack rules, and expensive drinks. They literally don’t have a choice. It is interesting to see that many of the food and drink specials we publish are in the restaurants inside properties. Restaurants which operate independently of the hotel and are able to establish their own prices without regards to zillions of dollars of debt to service.

Will the house of cards fall down for any of these companies? MGM Resorts should do fine in the long run. Although they won’t be building another CityCenter anytime soon (which they have the land to do so across from The Sahara). The bank that owns Cosmo can eat the loss until they resort is worth enough to sell. Caesars Entertainment? Some conjecture that their debt is not sustainable. They appear to be banking (no pun intended) on online gambling, which they seem to have a nice stake in. If that doesn’t happen, could we see them selling off some of their Las Vegas hotels (the way that MGM Resorts sold off Treasure Island a few years ago)? Speaking of…

Retail Will Not “Save” Las Vegas – Treasure Island just got plans approved to rip out their corner facade and put in retail (see above and below). The pirate show will stay, but the ship won’t move as far away from the bay (as it won’t have anywhere to go). This comes on the heels of Monte Carlo destroying the beautiful facade of their property for more retail and dining. And of Treasure Island essentially marring the front of their hotel with that horrible looking red restaurant.

Look, I’m no math major. But to me, the numbers just don’t add up. Visitation is flat and each visitor only has so much to spend. If you divide that disposable income by (for example) 1500 shops, bars, and restaurants instead of 1000, each venue will bring in less money. So what does this mean for you? More competition = more deals!

No Pot Soon – Organizers are going to wait until 2016 to attempt to put a measure to legalize marijuana on the ballot here in Nevada. They cite the time needed to organize and fund the petition drive.

Stop The Strollers! – An incredibly disturbing trend the past couple of years (especially) is seeing parents pushing strollers and dragging young children around into the later hours of the night. Listen… I realize that some people have legitimate reasons to bring children to Las Vegas. Perhaps the husband is attending a convention and the wife and young child come along for the price of airfare. He works during the day while she sees the sites pushing the child around. But any responsible parent is going to be back in their room with milk and cookies before the evening gets late.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case. For some reason, many people are thinking that a Vegas vacation with their young (and very young) children is going to be something resembling fun. The reality is that these are usually the most miserable looking people that you’ll see out. They aren’t having any fun. They can’t just hit the bar for a drink, then start gambling when the mood hits. And I have to assume that a vacation with the parents and young kids all sharing a room isn’t going to exactly be the most romantic getaway the couple has ever had.

If your children aren’t old enough where you are comfortable with them being on their own in a vacation city, they are simply too young to bring to Las Vegas. Let alone shoving them around in a stroller at midnight.

Hope you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

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What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

• Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme sing, “This Could Be The Start Of Something Big” – With the passing of Las Vegas’ beloved iconic performer Eydie Gorme at the age of 84, and the continue requests we receive from readers wondering where they can still see traditional lounge music (pretty much nowhere, casinos consider it too expensive), we pulled up a couple videos of the same song: This Could Be The Start Of Something Big.
• Noreen’s Lounge: Home of the Steeler Nation – With such an influx of people moving here from all over the United States and the absence of our own NFL team, each year numerous bars across Las Vegas devote themselves ENTIRELY to one football team for the season. While the “home team” is on TV, ALL of the TV’s are tuned to that one game, food and drink specials abound, and team devotees enjoy the camaraderie of their former city-mates (and those who just simply happen to follow the team as their favorite).

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Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I recently visited Las Vegas for my 50th birthday. I stayed at the Cosmopolitan. Very nice and no problems. However, My family and I saw the Criss Angel Show Believe…What a disappointment. For $100 and more, what a let down. He talks for about 20 minutes about how he struggled to make it and then puts on a sub-level show. You feel like he is just winging it and really doesn’t care.

What a rip off. It’s amazing that he goes on about being the best magician but his show was not good at all. He has a midget go around with a fake penis and doesn’t he realize that there are children in the audience.

Unprofessional. So disappointed. $600 down the tube. What an embarrassment.

Perry

 

Ted Responds:

You aren’t the first (or last) person who can’t “believe” that this show has lasted this long. While Criss Angel fans really enjoy the show, over and over I’ve read comments from everyone else. Who didn’t.

To insure you’ll really enjoy yourself and support what we’re doing here at the same time, we ask/suggest everyone at least check out the shows we note in our Featured section at the top of this newsletter. (Use those links so they know we are sending you). ALL of them are critically acclaimed, long-running, top Las Vegas shows. We’ve never gotten complaint #1 about any of them. And, there is something for just about every taste!

PS I’m just a couple of years away from 50 myself. (My, how time flies when you don’t know what you are doing). Happy belated birthday!

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Enjoy and look forward to your newsletter. Happy to become a paid subscriber.

Do you have any updates on the new Downtown Grand? Curious about hotel, casino, dining, rates and so on,

Many thanks for bringing Vegas to me all year long.

Cynthia

 

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the kind words. We’ll start to release more membership details and answer related questions over the next few weeks. (We’re a bit behind as I’m house hunting, which is always a pesky little distraction. My lease is up in a couple of months, although I will note that my trial-run of living close-in to The Strip has been favorable).

For those who loved the old Lady Luck, you’re not going to recognize it after this renovation is done. The Downtown Grand is shaping up to be the class of Las Vegas. We’re heard talk of innovative dining, and in the next week or two will run a video previewing their signature restaurant Stewart and Ogden (the streets the property sits on, and two historical Las Vegas characters). All in all, you’ll have your choice of 8 bars and lounges, and 11 restaurants. A pretty aggressive line-up!

They will also have a pool deck on the casino roof (open to the public, from what we understand, but don’t quote us on that) and outdoor blackjack along 3’rd Street. The entire area has been dubbed DT3 (for Downtown Third).

An opening date hasn’t officially been announced, but mid-October seems to be the consensus rumor. We’ll obviously be down when it opens, bring you our thoughts, and plenty of photos!

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

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

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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Las Vegas Essentials Las Vegas Hotels Las Vegas Shows Headliners and Concerts Las Vegas Deals Access Vegas Twitter Feed Access Vegas Facebook Fan Page Las Vegas Photos

Featured Shows Rock Of Ages Absinthe Jersey Boys Million Dollar Quartet

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Restaurant Guy Savoy, Old Homestead Steakhouse, And Gordon Ramsey Steak Earn 2013 Wine Spectator Awards – Restaurant Guy Savoy and Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace and Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas have been honored in Wine SpectatorÆs 2013 Restaurant Wine List Awards. Restaurant Guy Savoy has successfully renewed its coveted Grand Award, Old Homestead earns the Award of Excellence for the second time and Gordon Ramsay Steak is proud to be a new recipient of the Best of Award of Excellence.

Wine SpectatorÆs Restaurant Wine List Awards are earned based on the wine listÆs selection, its pairing with restaurant cuisine and the general appeal to wine lovers. Wine lists are judged on a variety of criteria including vintages and appellations for all selections, complete producer names and the presentation and appearance of the list.

• Full story/details/info: 2013 Wine Spectator Awards

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Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Fantasy Introduces Bombshell Vocalist Jaime Lynch As New Headliner – Jaime Lynch brings sex appeal and a sultry voice to the Fantasy stage as the new headliner for the popular revue at Luxor Hotel and Casino. Lynch recently stepped into the limelight at the Atrium Showroom as she began her new gig as the lead singer in Fantasy.

ôFantasy is ever-evolving to showcase the most beautiful and talented women in Las Vegas,ö said Anita Mann of Anita Mann Productions, the production company behind Fantasy. ôWith Jaime as our new headliner, we look forward to introducing exciting new performances featuring our gorgeous dancers and new leading lady.ö

• Full story/details/info: Fantasy’s New Headliner Jaime Lynch
• Buy Tickets Now: Fantasy

• Million Dollar Quartet Welcomes Veronic Voices Star For One-Night-Only Guest Performance

  Million Dollar Quartet

  Veronic DiCaire

• Do You Wanna Rock? Rock Of Ages At The Venetian Nails The Look

  Book Rock of Ages Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Las Vegas gains superstar reputation

  Book Celine Dion Las Vegas Tickets Now

  Book Elton John Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Memoir leads to fresh songwriting, new album for Rod Stewart

  Book Rod Stewart Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Ventriloquist Terry Fator branching out with road show

  Book Terry Fator Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Louie Anderson still making connections

  Book Loui Anderson Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Frank MarinoÆs DIVAS Las Vegas û Perfection!

  Book Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas Tickets Now

• ‘The D* Word’ can’t match ‘Menopause’

  Book Menopause The Musical Las Vegas Tickets Now

• Gallagher covers all comedy bases

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Las Vegas Attractions

• Shark Reef Aquarium satisfies our obsession with sharks, promotes conservationism
• How to fall in love with Lake Mead
• Ethel M Botanical Cactus Gardens Embrace the Desert Flora

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Las Vegas Nightlife

Commonwealth Downtown Vegas Feels Refreshed With August 2013 Cocktail Of The Month – Commonwealth will beat the heat with August 2013Æs featured cocktail, ôAugust Afternoon.ö This cool cocktail, created by Mixologist Juyoung Kang, combines Ketel One, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, PeychaudÆs Bitters, basil and egg whites. While sipping on the unique concoction, guests can enjoy live DJ performances and breathtaking views of Downtown Las Vegas from CommonwealthÆs 2,000-square-foot rooftop. The tasty libation will be offered all month, priced at $10.

• Full story/details/info: Commonwealth Feels Refreshed With August Cocktail Of The Month

• Ri Ra Irish Pub August 2013 Specials
• Atomic Liquors Las Vegas: A “BLAST” From the Past
• Ghostbar undergoes transformation, unveils swank new look

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Gambling And Gaming

• Golden Nugget Pigskin And Poker Party Weekend Packs A Punch
• 7 Reasons You Should Play Craps
• Betting More Coins Increases Chance of Hitting Progressive
• Surrender, Dealer Advice and Losing One’s Head
• Before You BET IT, Make Sure You GET IT

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Dining In Las Vegas

KGB: KerryÆs Gourmet Burgers Introduces Tasty Monthly Burger and Shake Combos – KGB: KerryÆs Gourmet Burgers at HarrahÆs Las Vegas offers new monthly burger and shake combos available now through the end of the year. Presenting diners with fresh menu items to try at every turn of the calendar, each flavorful burger and shake creation, crafted by Chef Kerry Simon, is only available for its designated month. Ordered separately, the burgers are $14 and the shakes are $6, while the burger and shake of the month combo is $18.

The delicious creations for October 2013 are the Philly cheesesteak burger and strawberry banana milkshake. Topped with American cheese, peppers, onions, mushrooms and smothered with white cheddar cheese sauce, the thinly-sliced grilled steak is served on a white bun. Alongside the Philly cheesesteak is the strawberry banana milkshake made with homemade strawberry banana ice cream, whipped cream and strawberries.

• Full story/details/info: KerryÆs Gourmet Burgers’ Monthly Burger and Shake Combos

• SHe By MortonÆs Offers SHe Says “I Do” Menu For Brides-To-Be
• Chef Pierre Gagnaire Launches Exclusive Menus At Twist
• The Hottest Restaurant Openings On The Strip
• Vegas is all about fun and putting on a show, and thereÆs nowhere better to do it than at the table
• Best Signature Dishes in Las Vegas
• For Las Vegas chefs, casual doesn’t mean inferior
• Wing Lei food lives up to expectations
• Payard PÔtisserie & Bistro brunch brings breakfast up a notch

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More Las Vegas News

• Gilley’s Hosts “Boot ScootinÆ Benefit” – Dancing Marathon Features Prizes And Specials
• 9 Things You DidnÆt Know About Las Vegas
• Seven Questions for Oscar Goodman
• When you wish upon a store: New Disney retail outlet opening
• Gansevoort to Open in March While Delano Delays Until April
• There is lots to do in the desert without waking up with a tiger in your bathroom
• The Best of Oscar Goodman
• Shooting on the Strip: Las VegasÆs Prostitution Secret

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Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

• Labor Day Weekend Las Vegas 2013
  (August 30 – September 2)

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Air, Land, And Water Tour û Experience a Grand Canyon expedition with a helicopter trip and a Colorado River rafting trip. This adventure will leave you in awe as you experience scenery from one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Experience a helicopter tour to the bottom of the canyon at Grand Canyon west, where you will enjoy a champagne toast, bottled water, and continental breakfast. When you arrive at the Boulder City Airport you will meet up with the rafting crew. Your voyage will be fully narrated and motorized as you depart from the base of the Hoover Dam and float 12 miles down the Colorado River. The Colorado River rafting tour makes several stops along the river. Lunch will be served upon reaching Willow beach, Arizona where the rafting crew will transport you to your hotel at the conclusion of the tour.

Click To Book Your Air, Land, And Water Tour Now!

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Top Tickets For All United States Events

Did you know that we not only sell premium concert and event tickets for Las Vegas, but also for the entire United States as well? If you can’t make it to Vegas, treat yourself to some great seats for something near you:

Most Popular Sports Tickets	Most Popular Concert Tickets
US Open Tennis Tickets	Beyonce Tickets
NFL Tickets	Blake Shelton Tickets
– Dallas Cowboys Tickets	Bruno Mars Tickets
– New Orleans Saints Tickets	Eagles Tickets
– San Francisco 49ers Tickets	Honda Civic Tour Tickets
– Green Bay Packers Tickets	John Mayer Tickets
Baseball Tickets	Justin & Jay-Z Tickets
– New York Yankees Tickets	Justin Bieber Tickets
– Los Angeles Angels Tickets	Justin Timberlake Tickets
– San Francisco Giants Tickets	Kenny Chesney Tickets
NHL Tickets	Lil Wayne Tickets
– Philadelphia Flyers Tickets	Luke Bryan Tickets
– Chicago Blackhawks Tickets	Matchbox Twenty Tickets
– New Jersey Devils Tickets	One Direction Tickets
College Football Tickets	Taylor Swift Tickets

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Las Vegas Show Reviews

Tournament Of Kings by Terri DÆRichards

Pageantry, Fireworks, And Knights On Horseback – Tournament of Kings – Hear Ye! Hear Ye! û come one, come all to “Tournament of Kings” at the Excalibur — a throwback to the more themed era on the Las Vegas Strip. While newer properties have abandoned the Disney-like themes of their predecessors, and many of those existing previously have re-branded themselves, the Excalibur Hotel Casino retains its full on Medieval fantasy motif.

• Read Entire Tournament Of Kings Review
• Tournament Of Kings Las Vegas tickets, video, and info

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Newkirk’s Notes: The Boss Speaks…

Newkirk’s Notes are comments and insight from AccessVegas.Com publisher and 20+ year Las Vegas resident Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’m on assignment again this week. We’re continuing to work on some very cool new things we’ll be bringing your way over the next 2-3 months.

Last issue, I told you about our “Best Of” poll where everyone goes in the pool and you get to vote for an unbiased result. We’re also working on the mother of all Las Vegas deals website application which will be available to paid subscribers only. There is nothing else like it out there and we’re going to guarantee it will save you at least the cost.

We have some other cool new things we’re keeping under our hat for now, one of which will help you get the most bang for your buck when it comes to the dreaded resort fees. If they are here to stay, let’s at least get our moneys worth. (And if you don’t like them, you seriously need to write your US Congressperson and Senator about legislation to make them transparent, just like the airlines have to do).

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

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What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

• Veronic Voices Star Performs With Million Dollar Quartet – On Monday, August 5, 2013 Veronic Voices star, VÚronic DiCaire, joined the cast of Million Dollar Quartet onstage for a special guest performance at Harrah’s Las Vegas. Performing the voice of June Carter for the first time ever, VÚronic sang a duet of “Jackson” alongside Million Dollar Quartet cast member Benjamin D. Hale, who portrays Johnny Cash in the production.
• Famed Photographer Peter Lik – Las Vegas based Peter Lik (as often seen in his specials on The Weather Channel) has been taking stunning photography of nature from around the world. Here he is interviewed from his Las Vegas gallery located in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.
• Zowie Bowie Late Night / Las Vegas At Bally’s Opening Night – Opening night of Zowie Bowie’s Late Night / Las Vegas at Bally’s featuring special celebrity guests like Vince Neil (Motley Crue), Travis Cloer (Jersey Boys), Sean & John (Vegas the Show), and many more. For those who miss the “Vintage Vegas” of the Rat Pack, this show plays Bally’s Thursdays at 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $38.49 and can be purchased at the BallyÆs box office.

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