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Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 20, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Editors Note: Newkirk’s Notes can now be found after the news and reviews sections.

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

True Blood’s Sam Trammell Spotted Enjoying Absinthe – Star of HBOÆs vampire series, True Blood’s Sam Trammell was spotted enjoying the thrills and chills from the eccentric cast of Absinthe on June 16, 2012. After taking in the raunchy fun of the show, Trammell took the time to hang out with the cast afterwards for photos to end the night.

Named the ôBest New Showö on the Strip by both Vegas Seven and Las Vegas Weekly, Absinthe at Caesars Palace is the fantastical blend of carnival and spectacle, featuring wild and outlandish acts in a theatre-in-the-round presentation suitable for all seasons.

Construction For Hakkasan Las Vegas Underway At MGM Grand – Construction is underway for Hakkasan Las Vegas, an upscale dining experience with a lavish lounge and nightclub created by Hakkasan Ltd. and its partners Angel Management Group (AMG). Unveiling this December at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, the notable development has taken over the former Studio 54 space and the main exterior facade at one of the busiest intersections on The Strip: Las Vegas Boulevard South and Tropicana Avenue.

Caesars Palace to Celebrate Independence Day with Rooftop Fireworks Display Saturday, July 7 – In celebration of Independence Day, Caesars Palace will light up the sky with an impressive fireworks display from the rooftop of the Roman Tower on Saturday, July 7. The celebratory show will kickoff at 9:15 p.m., weather permitting, granting hotel guests and passersby the best views on the Las Vegas Strip from the front fountains at Caesars Palace Saturday, July 7 at 9:15 p.m.

Rhumbar Celebrates Fourth Of July With Day Party On The Patio With Drink Specials – There will be plenty of cocktails, cigars and hookahs to go around as Rhumbar at The Mirage Hotel & Casino celebrates the Fourth of July with a midday party on Wednesday, July 4.

A DJ will get the party started on RhumbarÆs tropical patio amid the energy of the Las Vegas Strip with a mix of Top 40 hits and dance music. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Independence Day guests will enjoy $5 vodka mixed drinks, Sweet Strawberry Rum Punch and 16-ounce Coors Light bottles as well as $18 buckets of domestic beer and $8 house cigars. Starting at 3 p.m., guests may order hookahs and even get patriotic with red, white and blue flavors such as Cherry, Vanilla and Blue Mist.

October 2012 Dates Announced For Elton JohnÆs ôThe Million Dollar Pianoö At The Colosseum At Caesars Palace – Returning to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace to perform his smash hit show that critics have called ôan epic masterpiece of musical entertainment,ö tickets for the following Oct. 2012 performances of Elton JohnÆs ôThe Million Dollar Pianoö go on sale Monday, June 18.

Tacos & Tequila Celebrates The Red, White, And Blue With100-Ounce Frozen Flagpole Daiquiris – Tacos & Tequila (T&T) will celebrate the Fourth of July with the 100-ounce frozen Flagpole Daiquiri available throughout the month of July at Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Patriotic partygoers will celebrate Independence Day with the Flagpole DaiquiriÆs layers of frozen flavors including red strawberry daiquiri, white pina colada and blue coconut banana served in a 3-foot souvenir cup. Guaranteed to offer relief from the Las Vegas heat, the specialty cocktail will be available at T&TÆs daiquiri bar and priced at $35 with refills available for $25.

Fire up the Grill in Celebration of National Grilling Month – Leave the lighter fluid and matches on the patio and head indoors for National Grilling Month this July. The chefs of MGM Resorts are ready to prepare a hot-off-the-grill meal that will tantalize your taste buds.

  • The art of grilling is highlighted by the Japanese-style Robata Grill at Japonais at The Mirage. Guests gather around the Robata bar, located in the stylish lounge, and watch as chefs prepare skewered food such as lobster, steak, shrimp and asparagus, over a traditional charcoal grill that is simple, yet accentuates the natural flavors of the meats.
  • The Steak House at Circus Circus has reached a landmark 30 years of service and fires up their grill nightly with approximately 200 pounds of mesquite wood charcoal from Mexico. Mouthwatering aromas fill this award-winning classic steakhouse as meat-lovers watch their menu selection cook on the open-hearth fire. Among the delectable offerings available are Filet Mignon, Rib-Eye, Porterhouse and New York Strip.
  • Sensi at Bellagio enlivens all five senses as part of the dining experience thanks to a presentation kitchen in the center of the dining room where chefs craft dishes using sustainable, fresh ingredients. The restaurant devotes a section of the menu to grilled food such as line-caught Tuna Steak Au Poivre and Kalbi Flat Iron Steak made of American Wagyu with crispy bone marrow and kim chee.

Madame Tussauds Unveils Environmentally Friendly Leonardo DiCaprio Figure – Madame Tussauds Las Vegas located at The Venetian unveiled a wax figure of Golden Globe winner and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio. In honor of the actorÆs dedication to the environment, the figureÆs head was created from natural clay and beeswax materials containing organic pigment. Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.erikkabik.com

Stripsteak At Mandalay Bay Presents Intimate Scotch Dinner – Stripsteak a Michael Mina Restaurant at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino presents an intimate Scotch Dinner Thursday, June 28 at 8 p.m. The exclusive event will feature a specially created five-course menu with a different scotch from The Macallan Portfolio to complement each delectable course.

Maverick Helicopter over Grand CanyonMaverick Silver Cloud Grand Canyon Tour û Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Fly back through the Grand Canyon on your way to the Bowl of Fire full of flaming red rock formations. Conclude your journey with an exciting flight between the hotels on the Las Vegas Strip!

Click To Book Maverick Silver Cloud Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil by Terri D’Richards

Cirque In Las Vegas, All You Need is LOVE – This super Cirque-adelic Lovefest combines director Dominic ChampagneÆs wildly fanciful interpretations of The Beatles music and history performed to the very best of the beloved bandÆs hit songs. The tracks used in the production represent two years in Abby Road studios for famed Beatles producer George Martin and his son Giles. The team used original master recordings from The Beatles catalog, combined with bits and pieces of songs, alternate vocal takes, and in studio banter.

American Storm by Sarah Jane Woodall

American Storm: No One Is Safe From Their Flirtatious Moves – GirlsÆ Night Out is a classic Vegas tradition. Whether it be a bachelorette party, divorce party, or birthday party û or just because you and your girlfriends feel like getting wild û Vegas is the perfect city in which to unleash your inner bad girl. You wanna drink? WeÆve got bars. You wanna dance? WeÆve got nightclubs. But even more important than either of those… if you wanna ogle some half-naked beefcake, weÆve got you covered there, too!

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – For those of you used to reading my column at the beginning of the newsletter, I’ve decided to relocate it down here. Fortunately, we continue to gain subscribers (thanks for telling your friends… and if you haven’t, what’s keeping you?) and while I appreciate that many of you enjoy my Vegas insights, they cover a range from visitor numbers to the real estate market and beyond. Many subjects that have little to do with your next visit. Hence, we’re running the visitor news and reviews first now and I’ll pontificate down here.

Also a quick note: I’ll be on hiatus from the newsletter throughout much of July. We’ve got new hires to bring up to speed, we need to finish development on that amazing money-saving app we’re working on, and get ready to launch our own “Best Of Vegas” contest. All huge undertakings, and there are only so many hours in the day.

It Was Bound To Happen – April marked the first month in a couple of years that visitor volume was down over the same month of the previous year. Before all the Vegas-haters out there start to rejoice and dream of the demise of the city (a la the many hit-piece articles and blogs written during the height of the recession), the decline was microscopic and wholly due to the fact that last April had one more weekend in it then this year did.

Which lends itself to an obvious Vegas tip: In many cities, hotel rooms cost more during the weekday (to bilk the business visitor) and rates are relaxed on the weekend. Las Vegas is exactly the opposite. With the exception of a few really busy convention weeks each year, rates and occupancy for weekdays are much more palatable. Plus, you enjoy a little more elbow room.

Dueling Stadiums – Actually, dueling perhaps isn’t the right word. A developer has put a down payment on his bid for acreage south of the M Resort with the intention of building a stadium. Interestingly enough, the current negative of Sam Boyd Stadium (where UNLV plays football and also the home of concerts, motocross, and similar) is that the location in the far east part of the valley is inconvenient to most residents.

Speaking of UNLV, a stadium on the campus (somewhat centrally located and 1.5 miles east of The Strip) seems to be gaining momentum. Mayor(s) Goodman are still hell-bent on a downtown stadium housing an NBA team. Not to be outdone, Ceasers Entertainment still seems to be pursuing their quest to build an arena behind the Imperial Palace. We’ll keep you posted!

Train To Nowhere Now Going Somewhere – We’ve been reporting on the proposed high-speed train from Las Vegas to Victorville, CA which was supposed to let you transfer to another line going to Palmdale, where it then let you transfer to another line going to Los Angeles (follow the bouncing ball here, people). An agreement has been reached with the intention to run the original line all the way to Palmdale where one would (for now) get on a commuter train to Los Angeles.

The long term plan would be to upgrade the line from Palmdale all the way into Los Angeles so the high speed train could make the run non-stop at greatly increased speeds. Oh, much of the line will be funded by a federal loan (which means, guess who holds the bag if it fails).

Look, this is just “same song, second verse” and these people continue to be as high as a kite (figuratively speaking):

  • The detour over to Palmdale doesn’táappreciably add miles to the trip. BUT, having to change trains (during which time you’re going exactly 0 miles per hour) then taking a commuter train the remaining 60 miles into Los Angeles at normal train speeds is going to go quite a ways to negate the time you saved during the high-speed portion of the trip.

    But wait Ted… you noted that the train would eventually be high speed all the way. I don’t think so. Read on…

  • The Palmdale to Los Angeles portion runs through Solidad Canyon. Read that again: CANYON. Even though it is presently used as a major freight and passenger line, the twists and turns of the canyon restrict the speeds which can be obtained. Don’t take my word for it. View these YouTube videos:

    While neither train is creeping, they aren’t exactly breaking any speed records through the canyon. And if you look at the scenery and surrounding mountains, you’ll see that routing options are limited.

    Add to the fact that high-speed rail requires no railroad crossings (people would be getting splattered left and right as the train would be on them before they see it) which means the cost to elevate this thing all the way through the Los Angeles area is going to turn out sky-high.

Las Vegas’ most juiced-in PR firm is handing this turkey now. Even they are going to have a hard time spinning this one.

New Construction On “The Strip” – – Kind of. A new 20 story timeshare tower is being added to the existing Grandview Resorts complex (which will bring the total number of towers to 8). The location? Next to the South Point, right on Las Vegas Blvd. but 6 miles south of Mandalay Bay. I’d like to consider myself pretty savvy when it comes to Las Vegas, but I’m at a loss on this one. Major projects are stalled all over town, but in a really bad economy people are buying timeshares? In a city where (weeknights) $21 a night will get you a room downtown and $32 on The Strip?

Downtown Housing Set To Grow By Leaps And Bounds – I’ve been asked why we cover housing issues in a Vegas travel newsletter. But believe it or not, quite a few readers either are thinking or at least dreaming of eventually moving here, which makes it good to know where the city is headed. Long-time readers know that I’ve been predicting a residential boom downtown for a couple of years now. Put another one in the proverbial “Ted Was Right” column: A recent article Chances open up for Las Vegas downtown living space highlights the pending downtown residential progression.

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

  • Hash House A Go Go – This restaurant has become a new classic in town. Best known for its farm fresh food, creative menu offerings and hugeàwe mean, HUGE portions, Hash House A Go Go has been visited by a number of celebrity foodies such as Martha Stewart and Rachel Ray. And get this, Their famous oversized portions have even been featured on the Travel ChannelÆs hit show, Man Versus food. Locations include Imperial Palace, The Plaza and M Resort.
  • The New Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace – Octavius Tower, the sixth hotel tower at Caesars Palace, raises the industry standard with an innovative technology package. The exclusive Octavius Tower web application and in-room technology features create a unique, interactive and high-touch service experience for hotel guests, unlike any other on the Las Vegas Strip.
  • Senor Frogs – This world-famous party restaurant has just opened at Treasure Island. To get an idea what to expect, enjoy this video story on their Myrtle Beach location.
  • Mizumi Grand Opening At Wynn Las Vegas – Mizumi, the newest restaurant at Wynn Las Vegas, opened with a star-studded party on June 7, 2012. Enjoy this restaurant preview.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Viva Elvis is one of the best shows I have seen in my 20+ years of going to Las Vegas. Now that it is closing, have you heard of any plans to come out with a DVD of the show?

Thanks for a great newsletter, and your help.

Alan Waldauer

Ted Responds:

Cirque du Soleil themselves note: “At the moment there is no DVD of the show Viva ELVIS, nor a documentary of its creation.” With the show closing, I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for one. Interestingly enough, the feedback for Viva Elvis has been pretty good from our readers. People who loved the show really loved it.

Unfortunately, the appeal wasn’t as broad as anticipated. It has also been theorized that the Elvis estate didn’t give Cirque the latitude that they had with the Beatles Love, resulting in a show that wasn’t as appealing to general Cirque fans. For those who want a chance to see Viva Elvis before it closes, you have until August 18. Click for Viva Elvis Tickets

We just got back from Vegas! We were there May 30 to June 4. I saw some things I wanted to report. On two occasions I saw cab drivers help out of state drivers who were all turned around. They let in a guy from California who decided to switch to the turning lane at a red light from two lanes over. They let us make a crazy U-turn at Paris when we were trying to find parking for BallyÆs which I now think is the same parking structure. IÆve been thinking of cab drivers as villains since the long hauling reports.

Also I didnÆt find the card slappers to be aggressive. People gave them a wide berth and they didnÆt approach anyone. The medians were pretty and well groomed. They had big orange tiger lilies in them. Not sure what the fight is over strip maintenance. Flamingo needs to do something with their foliage out front. ItÆs overgrown their signage.

Overall we were very pleasantly surprised with conditions on The Strip. We donÆt usually stay over the weekend because of the crowds, but everyone was nice on and off the strip. We were luckier downtown. CanÆt wait to go again! Keep the newsletters coming!

Gina Kasky

 

Ted Responds:

I’ll take your word for it on the cab drivers. All we know from driving around the tourist areas is that they are generally horrible drivers and very inconsiderate. Just like being in Las Vegas on a rainy day, or hitting a slot jackpot, I guess anything is possible on any given day. Including seeing a nice cabbie!

The pornslappers have had to dial their aggressiveness back a bit according to an agreement they have reached (for now) with the county. I continue to advise visitors to simply not look at them and walk right along on your way. They can’t make any physical contact with you whatsoever (it could be construed as assault) and always end up backing off.

Flamingo owners Caesars Entertainment are well-known for their “deferred” maintenance. A running joke on the internet has been what sad and faded shape the Paris Las Vegas balloon is in when you observe it in the daylight. Now that they are building the new $550 million Project Linq, they’ll have even more space to let get all run down!

No question that Las Vegas is a different beast on the weekend. Weekdays bring value-oriented travelers, often from the mid-west. Weekends bring Californians and those with “fly-in” budgets who have only a couple of days here and want to party-hearty, making the most of it.

Also, the crowds can vary. The weekends just before or after a major holiday like Labor Day are relatively uncrowded and more tame. Also, some are what I call “California” weekends. For some reason, everybody in our neighboring state seems to get the same itch to visit at the same time. All at the last minute. And come Friday night, the town overflows with CA license plates.

We continue to suggest that people take their gambling budgets downtown until The Strip starts offering better paying slots and table game rules. Official Nevada Gaming stats always show that downtown is looser.

Thanks for reading!

This is by far the most informative newsletter out there. I subscribe to two magazines and do not get any information that I can really use. I will be ready and willing to pay for your wonderful newsletter and hard work you do to put this together.

Dee Clark

 

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the kind words. We do work really hard to put everything together. And while we will be going to a subscriber model, we are prepping additional features that will make it worth it for everyone.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 13, 2012

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

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

Ted was out last week with a serious bout of the flu. He is starting to get back in the saddle and his sections Newkirk’s Notes and Members Mania will return next week.

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff:

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

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

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

The Steak House At Circus Circus Marks Its 30th Anniversary With An Unbeatable Dinner Special – Enjoy a complete Petite Filet or Prime Rib dinner for $30 throughout the month of June.

In a city that is continuously evolving its culinary scene with new restaurant venues both on and off The Strip, itÆs rare to find an establishment that has withstood the test of time and remained a favorite of Las Vegas locals and tourists alike for three decades. The Steak House at Circus Circus has reached a landmark 30 years of service and recognizes this milestone is a cause for celebration. Throughout the month of June, loyal guests and first time visitors can commemorate The Steak HouseÆs anniversary by enjoying a $30 Petite Filet or Prime Rib dinner special.

Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace Reveals Hotel Design, Announces Rooms On Sale October 1, 2012 – Nobu Hospitality partners including Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, along with designer David Rockwell and principals from Caesars Palace, gathered yesterday at the original Nobu in New York City to provide guests with an initial glance inside the worldÆs first Nobu Hotel, set to open in Las Vegas late 2012. In addition to revealing the first look into the hotel design, the group announced guest bookings will begin Oct. 1. Rooms can be booked online at NobuHotelCaesarsPalace.com.

Sneak Peek Into Nobu MatsuhisaÆs First Restaurant On The Famed Las Vegas Strip – Chef Nobu MatsuhisaÆs largest and most innovative restaurant yet will open alongside the worldÆs first Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace Las Vegas. Both the restaurant and the hotel will make their debuts later this year.

“This restaurant will mark many first milestones – the first Nobu on the Las Vegas Strip, the very first of my restaurants to offer an in-room dining menu and the first-ever Nobu to open alongside a Nobu Hotel,” said Matsuhisa. “We pour our hearts into each new project and are passionate about crafting imaginative ideas with our guests in mind. Caesars Palace shares our values in striving to leave guests with lasting memories and we are thrilled to be revealing the new concepts and designs for Nobu Caesars Palace.”

Palazzo Hosted the 2012 Las Vegas Epicurean Affair – The Palazzo Las Vegas hosted the Las Vegas Epicurean Affair presented by the Nevada Restaurant Association featuring nearly 75 renowned restaurants and beverage purveyors. Approximately 1,800 guests mingled amongst the elegant Pools at The Palazzo and sampled culinary delights from local celebrated restaurants. Recognized as one of the cityÆs premier tasting events, this yearÆs sold out Epicurean Affair dazzled once again as world-class chefs tempted guestsÆ palates throughout the evening.

Tender Steak & Seafood Introduces New Summer Menu Selections – Summer dishes have arrived at TENDER Steak & Seafood, and Executive Chef K.C. Fazel has crafted exceptional creations with the freshest flavors to offer guests an unforgettable dining experience at Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Guests will begin their dinner with exclusive summer starters including Quonset Point Oysters from Narragansett Bay, RI. Diners also will enjoy a new Vegetarian Heirloom Tomato Soup with basil, garlic and feta sourdough croutons or an Heirloom Tomato and Buffalo Mozzarella salad with basil olive oil, sea salt and black cracked pepper.

Sail To New England At BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – A slice of the Northeastern seashore moves west to BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens for the summer floral exhibition. Inspired by water, light and scent, guests are transported to the endearing and crisp atmosphere of New England through September 9. New to the summer exhibition is a blue and white lighthouse with a rotating light as well as live performances by classical and jazz guitarists daily from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Tacos & Tequila Introduces New Summer Specials – As the weather gets warmer, Executive Chef Saul Ortiz heats up happy hour with new specials at Tacos & Tequila (T&T). And, to make sure no guest gets left out of the fiesta, Chef Ortiz also has created new all day specials sure to keep the party going every week day at Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Golden Nugget Picks College Football Games Of The Year – The Golden Nugget Las Vegas will be the first casino and sports book in Las Vegas to post lines on its 2012 College Football Games of the year on June 11.

This will be the propertyÆs sixth consecutive year announcing over one hundred key college games of the year which take place Aug. 31 through the last game on Dec. 8.

Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer Rocks Fourth Of July With Independence Day Barbecue Platter – Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer at Excalibur Hotel & Casino will celebrate the red, white and blue holiday with an Independence Day Barbecue Platter, priced at $17.76, on Wednesday, July 4.

The finger-lickinÆ platter, priced to honor the year of AmericaÆs independence, will make every guest see fireworks. The celebratory dish is piled high with three slices of juicy beef brisket, two fall-off-the-bone spare ribs and a hearty sausage link.

Casa Fuente Announces Junefest Featuring First Craft Beer Festival – Casa Fuente inside The Forum Shops at Caesars presents JuneFest, an entire month dedicated to beer with the first Casa Fuente Craft Beer Festival set to take place on June 22-23, 2012.

Each week in the month of June, Casa Fuente will feature a selection of small batch and craft beers for patrons to enjoy while beating the heat and relaxing on the indoor patio.

Comme Ãa Will Launch æLe BarbecueÆ Series With Bastille Day Celebration – Comme Ãa, the modern French brasserie by acclaimed Chef David Myers at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, will commence its ôLe Barbecueö summer grilling series on the patio with a Bastille Day celebration on Saturday, July 14.

Myers, chef and owner of the celebrated restaurant, along with Executive Chef Brian Howard, have created a Parisian-inspired barbecue menu of selections made to order from the wood-fired grill on Comme ÃaÆs patio, including freshly-made Leg of Lamb, Skirt Steak au Poivre and Beer Can Chicken.

Fantasy Splashes Into Summer With Tracey As JuneÆs æShowgirl Of The MonthÆ – All the way from Warrington, England, British beauty Tracey graces the 2012 ôUltimate Fantasyö calendar as JuneÆs ôShowgirl of the Month.ö Dressed in see-through black lingerie, the brunette bombshell teases fans with her gorgeous looks in the seductive two-piece ensemble.

The FANTASY knockout is both domestic and adventurous. She likes to cook, bake and sew as well as zip-line down Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City, NV. Tracey dreams of one day being able to travel to exotic countries and visiting Paris again û her favorite city.

Lasagna Lovers Unite To Enjoy National Lasagna Day At Trevi – Trevi, the celebrated Italian restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars, will celebrate National Lasagna Day with its delicious lasagna pizza and authentic lasagna entrÚe, each specially-priced exclusively on Sunday, July 29.

Chef Peter ScaturroÆs newest signature dish, the lasagna pizza, will be offered for $13.95 in honor of the national holiday. The deep dish delight is layered with Italian sausage, ricotta and mozzarella cheeses and topped with a tangy pomarola sauce. Lasagna lovers will also enjoy a discount on the classic lasagna, priced at $17.29 for the day. This homemade Italian favorite is layered with pasta, zesty meat sauce and topped with flavorful ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.

RÝ Rß Las Vegas Hosts European Football Championship Viewing Parties û Gives Away Trip To See The LA Galaxy – Soccer fans can catch all the 2012 European Football Championship action at RÝ Rß Las Vegas this summer. Starting Friday, June 8, the pub will host viewing parties for fans during each match of the tournament.

During the Championship Final on Sunday, July 1, RÝ Rß will give away two tickets to see the LA Galaxy play at The Home Depot Center in Los Angeles this season. For every pint they buy during each viewing party at RÝ Rß, fans will receive an entry form for the drawing. The pub will offer drink specials for every viewing party.

Discover Italy Series Continues At Onda Ristorante & Wine Lounge At The Mirage With New Prix Fixe Menus And Unlimited Wine – Beginning July 12, the culinary exploration of Italy continues with the second half of the 2012 Discover Italy series at Onda Ristorante & Wine Lounge at The Mirage Hotel & Casino. Kicking off the second Thursday of each month through November, guests will be able to eat their way across Italy with a new, succulent, $59 three-course prix fixe menu, highlighting one of five regions. Culinary tourists also will have the option to add an unlimited premium wine pairing for $18. Discover Italy schedule of events through November 2012 is as follows:

CarlosÆn CharlieÆs Encourage Guests To Cool-Off With Happy Hour Specials – CarlosÆn CharlieÆs is ready for summer and to cool off from the heat wave they are rolling out Happy Hour drink specials. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy 2-for-1 regular and ôBig Mammaö size frozen margaritas including CharlieÆs Frozen Margarita, Mango Margarita and Passion Fruit Margarita. Daily 2 – 6 p.m.

Maverick HelicopterLas Vegas Strip Helicopter Tours (Day or Night) by Maverick û A Flight Over The Las Vegas Strip. Save time and money. Our Maverick Lights tour with out the Transportation. Spend more time seeing Las Vegas and arrive at our terminal 30 minutes prior to departure time. Reserve your seats today!

Click To Book Las Vegas Strip Helicopter Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

 

Le Reve by Guy Chapman

Le Reve – A Rich Playground Of Action, Magic, and Drama – To truly appreciate ôLe Reveö, one must surrender themselves to the idea of entering a dream-like world of sight and sound that will be unlike any ônormalö entertainment experience found on the Las Vegas Strip. With lush visuals, breathtaking acrobatics, and an immersive musical soundscape, guests will find a performance that will remain with them long after they have left the theater.

Housed within the Wynn Hotel and Casino, ôLe Reveö is a show that, while starting firmly on the ground, takes to the air and water instantly. And in many of those moments, it is likely to happen all at once. The show does not disappoint in providing spectacle. The set and its performers work as one constant and living organism. If it is not multiple performers providing a number of impressive feats all at once, it is the stage itself, rising and falling, and in many instances, transforming into a full pool of water to provide the most diverse set pieces of any show in Vegas.

Nathan Burton Comedy Magic by Terri DÆRichards

Nathan Burton Comedy Magic – If you believe that ôcomedyö magic must be lightweight then be prepared to think again after seeing Nathan Burton in action. Burton chooses to enrobe his illusions in whimsical concepts, however, the tricks are as seamless and astounding as any youÆre likely to see on the Strip or elsewhere.

Many folks may already find Burton recognizable from ôAmericaÆs Got Talentö where he wowed judges and audiences alike, and E! networkÆs ôThe Entertainerö, as well as his appearances on ôMiami Inkö and VH1Æs ôSurreal Lifeö. The Las Vegas based magician also garnered media attention for his incredible charity fund-raiser stunt: surviving for 7 days with no food or water in a glass box suspended above the Las Vegas Strip — in true Vegas style he did include a revolving roster of showgirls in the box with him!

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

  • Vegas TV Show Preview – ‘Vegas’ is inspired by the true story of former Las Vegas Sheriff Ralph Lamb, a rancher tasked with bringing order to Las Vegas in the 1960s. Note: The show is being shot in Las Vegas… New Mexico. You’ll see in the outdoor scenes that it does NOT look like Southern Nevada. New Mexico offers very favorable tax incentives for TV and movie shoots.
  • FIRST Food & Bar – Chef Sam DeMarco is bringing the neighborhood bar and restaurant concept back to life. FIRST Food & Bar is a hip, yet comfortable restaurant located inside The Shoppes at the Palazzo. The menu features American eats that are delicious and affordable.
  • Grand Canyon Helocopter Ride – See what is is like to visit the bottom of the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopter Tours then take off and soar though the canyon.
  • Belly Up To Oscar’s Bar – Enjoy this video preview of Oscar Goodman’s “Beef, Booze, and Broads” restaurant at The Plaza in downtown Las Vegas.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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.

Father’s Day And Fourth of July Las Vegas
News, Events, and Specials

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 30, 2012

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

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

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
  • Jersey Boys
  • Peepshow
  • Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular
    		•

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

    Hello From Las Vegas! – After a very chilly Memorial Day weekend (Saturday topped out at 73 degrees, Sunday barely made it to 80), we’re into the triple-digits as we crest into June. (Triple 777’s on a slot machine = Good. Triple digits on the thermometer = Toasty).

    June’s average high is 99 degrees, so we’ve likely seen the last of days in the 80’s, let alone 70’s. The next time we’ll feel cool-to-cold? Probably around September. No complaints from me! Except for the pesky electric bill for air conditioning, I’m all about the heat.

    Thanks For The Kind Words – I want to thank everyone who dropped me an email regarding the 13’th anniversary of this newsletter. I need to note that as I was doing a delete of my spam folder (where newsletter replies sometimes end up), I was hitting the delete button on a pile of email when I (just a half-second too late) noted a newsletter reply from someone names Cynthia. So Cynthia, feel free to write back. I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again!

    Holly Madison To Leave Peepshow – Las Vegas’ favorite sex symbol is ending her Peepshow (click for tix) run next week next month at the end of the year. No word on what is next for her. She really went above and beyond the call of duty, integrating herself into the Las Vegas community as a full-fledged resident and pretty much never saying no to an appearance or taking a minute with fans.

    Also, don’t forget that Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular (click for tix) ends after Labor Day weekend. This is your last chance to see the special Las Vegas production of the show in the custom special-effects theatre specifically built for the Vegas version. Click on the graphics in the right sidebar to purchase tickets to both.

    Lady Luck Update – The Lady Luck (which will re-open as The Downtown Grand) looks to be on its way with reports of remodeling work going on inside and an early 2013 opening. The bars and restaurants across from it on 3’rd streetáare hot spots, the Mob Museum is next door, and the revamping of the property will be another of many dominoes in the resurgence of downtown.

    Rich Or Budget? – A recent local article entitled Marketing quandary: Is Las Vegas a rich destination or budget stop? made some excellent points questioning the way Las Vegas markets itself. The average age of the visitor is 49, but most Las Vegas advertising seems to be aimed at those under 30 with endless amounts of money to spend (or at least credit cards they have not completely torched yet).

    We put a poll on our Facebook page asking you if Las Vegas seems just for the rich, enjoyable on somewhat of a budget, or a good value compared to other destinations. Head on over to our AccessVegas.com Facebook Page and put your two cents in! Make sure you Like us while you are there. Not a Facebook member? Don’t worry… we’re working on software which will let us eventually do polls on our own site as well.

    More On The Wayner – Wayne Newton Wins Restraining Order Against Landlord, Stalls Museum Plans. Wayne is striking back, and we’ll see how the chips fall in court.

    Hotel Noise – Las Vegas is a loud town. No question about it. Which can create a problem if you are an “early to bed, early to rise” type of person and/or simply a light sleeper. It isn’t just the noisy drunks retuning to their rooms at 3 AM. We also have outdoor nightclubs with DJ’s playing thump-thump music and live outdoor music venues. Downtown can be even worse, with the light show playing at 1 AM and live music on Fremont Street sometimes going until 2 AM.

    Our advice? If sleep is an issue for you, let the clerk know upon check-in. Ask if there is an issue with late-night music/noise in the vicinity of the property and if there is, request that they kindly locate you as far away from it as possible. Because of the project Linq construction, this also applies to Harrah’s, Imperial Palace, and The Flamingo right now.

    When To Visit Downtown – We’re revising our recommendations from last year, when we noted that downtown Fremont Street was pretty dull on weeknights (especially Monday and Tuesday) and busy on weekends. Well, weekends are not only busy, but just about out-of-control. Not in a bad way. Security is always good and people are usually well-behaved. However, we’re starting to talk some very serious crowds. If you like elbow room, visit on a weeknight. A daytime visit will net you cheap gambling and loose slots, but not the party which downtown is famous for.

    Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

    		 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

    Rock Of Ages Las Vegas

    The Bourbon Room Grand Opening At The Venetian Announces Rock Of Ages – The Bourbon Room at The Venetian made its grand opening last night with a surprise flash performance announcing the newest entertainment residency. As guests were enjoying signature bourbon cocktails and listening to the tunes of classic hairband music videos, more than forty dancers joined the party in their raddest æ80s attire, jumping up on the banisters and making their way through the crowd to the tunes of ôCum on Feel the Noize,ö ôI Wanna Rockö and ôNothinÆ But a Good Time.ö Photo Credit: IS Photography/ImagesOfVegas.com

    Public House To Honor Dads With Special Prix Fixe Menu And ôDrafts For Dadsö At Half-Price On FatherÆs Day – Public House, an American gastropub located in The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, will celebrate FatherÆs Day with a prix fixe menu and beer pairing priced at $48 per person and half-priced öDrafts for Dadsö on Sunday, June 17.

    Discover the Hidden Gems of Las Vegas – Sin City continues to be one of the most desirable getaways in the country. While uncovering the latest trendsetting spots can be easily accomplished, finding the true hidden gems can be hard to come by.

    • Pianist to the Presidents at Bellagio – Indulge in a splendid evening at BellagioÆs Petrossian Bar with live music from the pianist to Presidents of the United States. David Osborn has performed at the White House for many politicians including Presidents Carter, Bush, Clinton, Bush and Obama. Guests at Petrossian Bar can relax on one of the velvet couches overlooking the casino while enjoying beautiful music played by Osborn on the one-of-a-kind Steinway Grand. Osborn plays evenings Thursday-Sunday at the elegant lounge that gently sets the mood for sophisticated tastes and discerning palates. Talk about a hidden gem.
    • Wind Down at the Cigar & Cognac Lounge – Upstairs from Andre’s Restaurant inside Monte Carlo is the warm and welcoming Cigar & Cognac Lounge, a world of intimacy where guests can settle in by the fire with a drink and enjoy the seductive aroma of fine cigars. For the ultimate experience, let experts recommend a professional cognac and cigar pairing. It’s the perfect way to cap off a dinner at Andre’s, a show in the Monte Carlo Theatre or to simply wind down before turning in for the evening.
    • Complimentary Art Tours at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art – Las Vegas’ premier fine art exhibition venue, the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, offers daily docent tours beginning promptly at 2 p.m. Each tour is complimentary with the purchase of admission. The 45-minute tour takes guests through exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and works on paper by the world’s most influential artists. These museum-caliber displays offer visitors a rare opportunity to view legendary works of art carefully selected from prestigious international collections.
    • Wine Tasting on the House at Onda – Onda Wine Lounge at The Mirage is an Italian-inspired lounge where guests can enjoy a selection of wines available to taste by purchasing a tasting flight or individually. Every Friday afternoon, the lounge offers free wine tastings to guests. A selection of artisan cheeses and meats is also offered. All wines will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle and also by the case which can be shipped to an address of choice.
    • Gaming in Style on the Beach – Directly on the sand and just feet from the crashing waves, the three-story, climate-controlled, glass-fronted Beachside Casino at Mandalay Bay offers fabulous amenities for guests. At the top sits the Villas Soleil with spectacular views of the entire Mandalay Bay Beach. Ranging in size from 250 to 500 square feet, these five villas are unlike any standard cabana in Las Vegas. Each of the contemporarily designed villas accommodates up to 16 guests and comes with cabana service and access to the private third-level pool. Each features cozy modular seating and day beds in crisp colors, a restroom, wet bar, 50-inch flat-screen television, MP3 player, safe, ceiling fan and a private deck overlooking The Beach.
    • Swan-side Dining at Swan Court at Aureole – The exclusive Swan Court at Aureole offers private outdoor dining next to a lagoon where beautiful white swans glide gracefully. Guests can enjoy a menu of seasonal dishes including artisan dry-aged beef and fresh seafood that reflect Chef Charlie PalmerÆs signature progressive American cuisine. Along with dinner, rare wines from around the world can be sampled. AureoleÆs visual trademark is a four-story wine tower with its very own Wine Angel Stewards, who stylishly ascend the tower to retrieve bottles.

    ôKiss The Skyö Summer Pool Parties Coming To BinionÆs Gambling Hall – BinionÆs Gambling Hall announces its summer pool party series, Kiss The Sky, with DJs, dancing, and drink specials high above Las Vegas at the historic propertyÆs 25th floor pool. Admission is free, and all guests 21 and over are invited to party under the stars every Friday night starting at 9pm from June 8 through August 31.

    Rice & Company And Tender Steak & Seafood Honor Dads On FatherÆs Day – Luxor Hotel and Casino celebrates FatherÆs Day on Sunday, June 17 with a specially created menu and sushi roll designed to please even the most discerning of dads. Executive Sushi Chef Danny Chen of Rice & Company offers the spicy ôBig Daddyö sushi roll while Executive Chef K.C. Fazel of TENDER Steak & Seafood has crafted an unparalleled three-course prix fixe menu. Both are sure to make dadÆs day even more special.

    The Official Blues Brothers Revue And Blues, Brews, BBQ Festival At The Cannery Casino – Humor, music and a little mayhem. YouÆll get it all in the full presentation of The Official Blues Brothers Revue at the Cannery CasinoÆs indoor concert venue on Friday, June 22, 2012 at 8 p.m. Admission is $10 at the door. The performance begins at 8 p.m.

    Taylor Hicks To Headline At BallyÆs Las Vegas – As announced on ôAmerican Idolö, Taylor Hicks, winner of the showÆs fifth season, will have an eight-week engagement headlining at BallyÆs Las Vegas beginning Tuesday, June 26, 2012. Hicks becomes the first ôAmerican Idolö winner or finalist to secure a residency in Las Vegas, a testament to his talent and staying power as one of the showÆs most beloved stars.

    The Great Indoors at MGM Resorts – With summer on its way, Las Vegas temperatures will soon hit the triple digits. Have no fear, MGM Resorts properties have plenty of indoor activities that will keep you entertained without breaking a sweat.

    • Retreat to The Adventuredome at Circus Circus Las Vegas, AmericaÆs largest indoor theme park. From a double-corkscrew roller coaster to 4-D adventures with SpongeBob SquarePants or Dora and Diego, The Adventuredome provides the thrill and excitement of a traditional theme park in a comfortably cool 72-degree setting.
    • Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is comprised of nearly 1.6 million gallons of water throughout 14 indoor exhibits. Home to more than 2,000 divinely dangerous animals including sharks, crocodiles, sawfish, piranhas and a rare Komodo Dragon, Shark Reef Aquarium is a total sensory experience that transports visitors to an undersea ocean of fantastic sights, sounds and encounters.
    • If itÆs 100 degrees outside, you might wear a tank top and flip-flops. However, to truly get cool you should put on a parka, boots and mittens while having a cocktail û especially in a lounge made entirely of ice. The largest ice bar in North America, Minus5 Ice Lounge at Monte Carlo is a wonderland of intricately handcrafted ice sculptures and architecture where the temperature is a constant minus 5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit). Even the glasses are made of ice so bundle up!

    Maverick HelicopterMaverick Indian Territory Grand Canyon Tour û This exciting tour begins by flying over the beautiful Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, the world famous Hoover dam and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano. View the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the southwest along the way. Maverick Helicopters will descend and land in the Hualapai Indian Territory 3,500 feet into the Grand Canyon.

    Click To Book Maverick Indian Territory
    Grand Canyon Tour Now!

    Las Vegas Show Reviews

     

    Zumanity by Cirque Du Soleil by Sarah Jane Woodall

    Zumanity: Cirque Du Soleil’s Edgy And Sexual Side – Ever since the first showgirl bared her breasts at the Dunes in 1957, Vegas has been AmericaÆs go-to titillation destination. Over the decades the city has hosted countless adult-themed shows, ranging from the merely risquÚ to the downright tawdry û and in modern times, even seedy.

    But now that weÆve evolved into a world-class entertainment capital with five-star restaurants and high-end shopping, even the adult entertainment has stepped up a notch. Sure, you can still wallow in lowbrow cheese… but for those who prefer an adult experience with class, now thereÆs an elegant option.

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

    Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

    Just back in u.k. after great 6th trip to Vegas but what on earth have they done to Deuce bus on the strip. When we first went to Vegas we relied on the bus <2 dollars correct money any trip>, now it is 5 dollars minimum for two hours, what do you do in two hours? Stay on the bus and ride up and down the strip?

    See you again soon,

    Martyn!

     

    Ted Responds:

    Unfortunately, I don’t have the best news for you. Starting September 9, 2012 prices for the two-hour fare jump to $6. The two-hour fare is basically their way of instituting a “one way” bus fare. HOWEVER, you can get a 24-hour pass for only $8 (currently $7) and ride to your hearts content.

    An even better deal is the 3-day pass, clocking in at $20 (which will be unchanged when the other fares increase). At the end of the day, the Regional Transit Commission is facing the same kind of budget issues everyone else is and the fare hikes were inevitable.

    I just recently visited Las Vegas with my niece and I must say that for the first time in years they finally loosened the slot machines. It seems all the casinos we visited we made a little money.

    I guess they finally figured out if they loosened the slots people will spend more money instead of going to shows and tours.

    So it was a very nice trip this go round. Also anyone visiting Las Vegas, I would recommend Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall. I had a treat this time. They had the Elvis impersonators and the winner was from my home town. I wish him luck in Memphis at the finals.

    Can’t wait for next year to visit again. It will be my 10’th year in a row, hahah.

    Keep up the good work on your news letter.

    Thank you,

    Carol From Texas

     

    Ted Responds:

    Glad to hear you had a great trip! I’m not so sure that the slots have been loosened up (I don’t want to get anyone’s hopes up). Keep in mind that some trips, you’ll simply be more lucky than others.

    I’m with you, though: When I get up a bit, I like to walk with my money. Some people by into the myth that they are “playing with the house’s money”. The reality is that when you have credits on a machine or chips in front of you, that is YOUR money. All yours. Keep playing it too long, and it will return to being the house’s money.

    I always get fresh information from your newsletter, especially since I quit taking the LVRJ. I remember something else other than another Walgreens being approved for the site at LV Blvd and Sahara. LV needs another Walgreens like it needs another strip shopping center. Now we see why White Cross had to close.

    Ted, you sorely need a good proofreader.

     

    Ted Responds:

    We’re a little surprised that they are putting one in slightly less than a mile from the Walgreens at Convention Center drive and they have another one up at Charleston. I’m guessing that they are 1. Planning ahead to when The Sahara reopens and the North Strip gets some life and 2. Plan to cater to many neighborhoods within a 5-7 minute drive of that location (which includes me).

    Also, a significant amount of drive-in traffic headed to Circus Circus, Stratosphere, and Riviera drive right through that intersection when they get off the freeway at Sahara and I imagine they are hoping to pick up shoppers who want to stock up for their stay. If I were some of the various properties, I’d install an expanded on-site gift/grocery outlet and see if they can keep people out of the Walgreens.

    Proofreader? We’re lucky we get this things out every week as it is! In a perfect world, I’d have a staff of writers. In a perfect world, I’d have the budget for it!

    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.

    Father’s Day Las Vegas
    News, Events, and Specials

    Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 23, 2012

    Posted on by

    AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

    Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

    AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

    Las Vegas Essentials
    Featured Shows
    13’th Anniversary Issue

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

    Hello From Las Vegas! – We have a HUGE anniversary issue for you. Completely packed with great Las Vegas information. I’ve often joked that “Time flies when you don’t know what you are doing” but the reality is that 13 years ago I was contributing to alt.vacation.las-vegas (a newsgroup, which essentially was an internet bulletin board way before the dawn of web forums) with regular Las Vegas info and updates.

    Despite the fact that a good many people really appreciated my posts, a couple of the regular posters didn’t seem to like the fact that Iáwas having more fun then they were and started to take pot-shots at me. So, I took my ball and went home (so to speak). I said “I’m going to start an email newsletter” that would not only be sent out, but also posted online (blogging way before blogs existed) and said that if anyone wanted to subscribe, send me your email address. Slightly over 400 people did, and away we went (link to first ever issue).

    I’m obviously not a professional writer, we’ve never been the most fancy, and some of the internet code we use is still circa the late 90’s (we have HTML code on AccessVegas.com dating back to 1996). But I once read “If you can’t do it right, do it anyway” and we’re still here doing what we do. My 19 year (since I first moved here) romance with the city is still going strong. Our enthusiasm is 100% real and while I’ve noted countless times how I (nearly) live in the shadow of The Strip, that same energy that you enjoy when you visit permeates me 24/7. Thanks for taking the ride along with us!

    Bellagio Robbed Again – While the motorcycle bandit who held up The Bellagio for gaming chips in December 2010 enjoys all the amenities of (forced) government housing for the next nine years, you think everyone would have learned. Evidently not. A couple of guys pepper-sprayed a high limit blackjack table at the resort and grabbed $115,000 in $5,000 gaming chips. One got away (and later caught), the other was tackled and detained. Full details at Man arrested in casino chip heist at Bellagio and Botched Bellagio casino robbery leads to California man’s arrest

    Revving Up The Riv – Our friends at ViceLoungeOnline.com (and probably many others of you) may have been concerned about the long-term health of The Riviera. It and Circus Circus are currently pretty lonely in the North Strip and that situation doesn’t look to be changing for a long time. Even so, the owners are prepping to put $20-$30 million into the property, further sprucing it up (the rooms were remodeled in 2008 and various gaming floor renovations were done last year).

    They’ve moved the check-in desk back by the convention area and plan to really get serious about marketing their convention space (which has been underutilized forever). This amount is more than The D (formerly Fitzgerald’s downtown) is spending for their top-to-bottom renovations (including all the rooms), so we’re expecting The Riv to be in for some pretty nice changes.

    The Riviera is one place we seem to always get positive feedback about, so no question they are developing a loyal clientele. Las Vegas is setting records for number of visitors this year, and those people have to stay somewhere. We wish them the best and will report on the completed improvements down the road.

    Waynester Update – No sooner had we pressed the “send” button for last weeks newsletter — the one noting that we had absolutely no new information on Wayne Newton and the plan to turn his ranch into a tourist attraction — when everything hit the fan. (Because of current server limitations, our newsletter alerts take about two days to reach everyone on our list. Hence, some of you read the newsletter after reading the breaking news stories online. This is something we’ll be rectifying when we go to a paid subscribership basis and can afford the additional resources).

    In a nutshell, the group that purchased the rights to turn his home and land into a museum have sued Newton for delaying the project, smeared him with allegations that he sexually harassed his female horse trainer, and that the estate had been left to go to shambles and the many animals very poorly cared for. Newton claims (through his counsel) that the allegations are lies and the lawsuit was preemptive of one Newton planned to file in response to the construction delays.

    This doesn’t bode well for the completion of the project. As for the allegations, this isn’t exactly Newton’s first rodeo when it comes to lawsuits and legal problems. I’d wager he’ll make it through this relatively unscathed.

    SkyVue Isn’t Backing Down – The showdown continues between the two “London Eye” type observation wheels, and neither part is blinking yet. Caesars (the company) has begun work on their Linq project which includes an observation wheel (called the High Roller), and is funded, but no work has started on the wheel yet. Across from Mandalay Bay, construction is actually moving along for SkyVue.

    If you want more info:

    Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

    		 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

     

    Retired Ford Factory Worker Wins $1 Million In One Hand Playing Three Card Poker At Flamingo Las Vegas – Las Vegas experienced its second winner of the Caesars Entertainment exclusive $1 million Three Card Poker 6 Card BonusÖ table game on Friday, May 11. Dennis Hart, a retired Ford factory worker, won the $1 million grand prize off of one hand. Hart gave each of his three fellow players a $500 chip and generously tipped his dealer $20,000.

    The 2012 Miss USA Competition Will Heat Up The Las Vegas Strip On June 3 Live On NBC From Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino – NBC, Donald J. Trump and Paula M. Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization, announced today that the ô2012 MISS USA« Competitionö will air LIVE on NBC Sunday, June 3 (9 p.m. ET) from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas at the Theatre for the Performing Arts. Andy Cohen, host of BravoÆs ôWatch What Happens: Liveö and Giuliana Rancic, co-anchor of ôE! News,ö will host the competition.

    The Smith Center For The Performing Arts Kicks Off 2012/2013 Broadway Las Vegas Season With Wicked – WICKED, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, DisneyÆs Enchanted, Academy Award« winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt) and book by Winnie Holzman (ôMy So Called Life,ö ôOnce And Againö and ôthirtysomethingö), is based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire. WICKED is set to make its Las Vegas debut on August 29.

    Gordon Ramsay Steak Reveals Signature Menu Items At Paris Las Vegas Restaurant – The wait is over as Gordon Ramsay Steak gives eager guests a peek of what delights await with three photos of signature dishes from the celebrated chefÆs highly anticipated dinner menu. Gordon Ramsay Steak opened on Friday, May 11 inside Paris Las Vegas.

    Acclaimed chef and TV personality Gordon Ramsay brings his flair for exciting cuisine to Paris Las Vegas in one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2012. Gordon Ramsay Steak is a high-energy restaurant which playfully transports guests from the Paris resort to the London atmosphere via a unique Euro-tunnel-like entryway.

    Trevi At The Forum Shops Inside Caesars Introduces New Menu And Happy Hour Specials – TREVI at The Forum Shops at Caesars has introduced a new menu and happy hour specials just in time for summer.

    The first menu change since its grand opening in 2009, the new selections include an array of classic and contemporary Italian selections crafted by Executive Chef Peter Scaturro. An array of delectable new desserts have also been developed by Sous and Pastry Chef Hank Sbraccia, accompanying his celebrated fresh gelato made daily at the popular dining spot.

    Scaturro, a talented chef who learned to prepare Italian dishes through his upbringing and training in New York City, showcases an array of new house specialties on the new menu. Scaturro will continue to update the menu every spring and fall to highlight the freshest ingredients and to offer lighter or heartier dishes in keeping with seasons. In addition to serving up classic Italian cuisine, Scaturro also believes in the quality of service and guestsÆ experiences at the restaurant.

    Tender Steak & Seafood Introduces New Selections – Chef K.C. Fazel Refreshes Menu For The Season – Spring is in the air and K.C. Fazel, Executive Chef of the elegant TENDER Steak & Seafood at Luxor Hotel and Casino, has infused the restaurantÆs menu with the freshest ingredients and flavors of the season to offer guests an unparalleled dining experience.

    Fazel has enhanced each selection by introducing a host of new offerings, creating dishes that are made from the purest sources available. ôAny recipe is only as good as the ingredients, and the most important part of my job is to find the best ingredients available,ö said Fazel.

    The Chocolate Lounge & Wine Bar Inside Sugar Factory American Brasserie Introduces Wine And Chocolate Pairings – The Chocolate Lounge & Wine Bar inside Sugar Factory American Brasserie at Paris Las Vegas will now offer wines from around the world, along with their decadent chocolate-focused menu, beginning on Friday, June 1. The lounge will also feature an expertly-trained sommelier to assist patrons with their wine and chocolate pairing selections.

    The new wines and chocolates will be available in five different paring options. The parings range from ôA Taste,ö featuring one pour of a guestÆs choice with one signature chocolate selection, priced at $8, to the ôGrand Tour,ö showcasing all six featured wine pours paired with six signature chocolate selections.

    Iconic Exterior Signs Removed From OÆSheas Casino – Iconic exterior branded signs from the recently-closed O’Sheas Casino were removed from the property’s exterior earlier this morning. The branded signs will take residency in the new O’Sheas Casino in its location inside The LINQ, a $550 million dollar entertainment, retail and dining corridor set to open in 2013, while others will be donated for display at The Neon Museum. Photo Credit: Cashman Photo

     

    Qua Baths & Spa At Caesars Palace Named In Top 100 Resort Spas By Conde Nast Traveler – CondÚ Nast Traveler, the renowned luxury travel publication, recently released its 2012 annual readersÆ poll results where Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace was recognized as one of the ôTop 100 Resort Spasö in the U.S. Mainland category.

    The Roman-inspired spa is one of two Las Vegas spas on the Strip to be highlighted in the ôTop 100 Resort Spasö category. Results from the magazineÆs 22nd annual readersÆ poll ranked Qua Baths & Spa 52nd, up one spot from last year, with an overall score of 92.2 out of 100.

    Venetian And Palazzo Kick Off Carnevale With Mese Di Arte – The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas will kick off the quintessential summer festival, Carnevale, with Mese di Arte (Art Month) from June 4 through June 30. Throughout the month, the resorts will be transformed into an art gallery with unbelievable 3D chalk artists, glassblowers, potters, living art installations and an interactive Art Walk. All demonstrations will take place in The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium & Gardens daily from 1-6 p.m. and select art work will be available for purchase to take the magic of Carnevale home.

    PBR Rock Bar & Grill Is Las VegasÆ One Stop Spot For Everything NBA Finals With Drink Specials – PBR Rock Bar & Grill inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will host NBA Finals parties for every fanatic from the East to West coast complete with incredible drink specials.

    From June 12 through 26, PBR Rock Bar & Grill will show every NBA Final game on their 105 flat-screen TVs throughout the interior and exterior. In addition to PBR Rock BarÆs weekly drink specials, any patron that wears their teamÆs jersey during game time can enjoy $3 wells and drafts.

    Miracle Mile Shops Ushers In Multiple, New And Remodeled Tenants – Popcorn lovers will delight when Chicago gourmet popcorn legend Garrett Popcorn opens its first Las Vegas location at Miracle Mile Shops this September. Now open, Jamba by Jamba Juice offers better-for-you, specialty beverage and food offerings such as whole fruit smoothies, sandwiches, fresh squeezed juices and juice blends, hot coffee and teas and more. Blow-dry bar Dollheads opens this June featuring a salon for blowouts and extensions. In November, GRATiAE brings its line of unique and organic skin care products to Miracle Mile Shops.

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

    Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Western Territory Tour By Plane Now!

    Las Vegas Show Reviews

     

    Crazy Horse Paris by Guy Chapman

    Entertaining And Sensual, Crazy Horse Paris Is One Of A Kind – While there are a number of shows found on the Strip that focus on the naked body, thereÆs only one that can bring the sexiness and beauty of French burlesque to the stage. That show is the ôCrazy Horse Parisö, found at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, and one it starts, your attention will be held for the next ninety minutes.

    Direct from its French homeland, this cabaret show wastes no time beginning its first number, which makes an impressive and surprising use of what initially seems to be a small stage. The stage itself is a collection of moving floors and rotating platforms, which immediately leads into a cinematic ôbehind the scenesö credits sequence.

    Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club by Terri DÆRichards

    Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club – Modern Comedy With An Homage To The Past – ôWhen I had the opportunity to build the ultimate comedy club at MGM Grand, I wanted a venue that captured the ambiance and style of the 1940s in New York,ö proclaims veteran television and film star Brad Garrett. ôThose were times when renovated warehouses were turned into speakeasies and small theaters, creating an intimate atmosphere with great entertainment.ö GarrettÆs new venue at MGM Grand delivers on point in fulfilling itÆs namesakeÆs goal of replicating famous New York night spots like The Copacabana, The Stork Club and JillyÆs — all well-known for their top-notch entertainment and unparalleled customer service.

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

    • Pinball Hall of Fame – Where else besides Las Vegas would you expect to find something as unique as the Pinball Hall of Fame? Yep, you heard us right, the Pinball Hall of Fame is a giant room filled with pinball and arcade game dating back all the way to the 1930Æs just waiting for you to come out and play them.
    • Las Vegas’ Drunken Desserts – Drinking at a bar or club in Las Vegas is so old school – at least that’s what two companies hope will be the latest Sin City trend. SnoBar and Sin City Cupcakes are serving up sweets that pack a serious punch. Read more…
    • I-15 Mountain Pass, CA And The Mojave Desert National Preserve– Although only accounting for 10% of our readership, Southern California accounts for around 50% of all Las Vegas visitors. The majority of them making the 5-8 hour trip (depending on traffic) by car. This time-lapse video starts at the CA/NV boarder and takes you south through a “high desert” portion of the trip.Next time you fly in and have to deal with the TSA and cramped planes and crazy airline fees, watch this video and be glad that you aren’t making this drive home all sunburned and hung over on a busy Sunday when half of Southern California is trying to get back home.
    • Chefs’ Gigantic Creations Push Las Vegas Diners To The Ultimate Challenge – There really isn’t a secret to eating an 8-pound hamburger. Really. You just take one bite after another until it’s gone. Mind over matter. This is the approach that Rich LeFevre, all 128 pounds of him, takes when presented with an 8-pound burger at The Pub in Monte Carlo recently. Read more…

    Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

    Members Mania will return next issue. With so much Vegas news pouring in this week and the need to get this to everyone before Memorial Day weekend, we’re up against deadline.

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