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Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 11, 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 Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Coming Events Listings:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – Spring is giving us the typically unpredictable weather it always seems to. We’re starting out the weekend with clouds and bands of rain, which will give way to highs in the mid-to-upper 80s as the coming week wears on.

Lots and lots to get to this issue (possibly the longest and most packed issue we’ve had in some time) so let’s just dive right in:

$20 Less In Gambling – A recent report noted that you budgeted about $20 less per trip in gambling money, but were spending more on dining, shopping, and tours. I’m sure the casino companies will cite the recession regarding gambling numbers. I continue to cite the tighter slots (penny slots are notoriously tight and often even an “win” is where you’ll win less than it costs you to play the hand, which gives you an actual loss).

Lower pay blackjack isn’t exactly helping either. If your money is going to be gone in a flash at the tables or slots, you’re much better off seeing a show, going on a tour, or getting a really great meal. At least you know what it will cost, and will have a experience in return for the dollar spent.

Hangover Heaven – Many of you saw news of a new Las Vegas company which will give you an IV to help combat your Las Vegas hangover. They have a bus which drives around to your hotel to pick you up and they treat you on board (starting at $90). I have a better (and far cheaper) suggestion, something which I’ve noted over the years but not very recently: Have some water between each drink. There is no charge to ask for an ice water when you order a drink.

Our climate is very deceiving: Because it is (usually) so dry, you don’t feel yourself sweat. (It dries off your skin so fast you can’t feel it). Between the low humidity and the booze, you dry out very quickly. Dehydration = Hangover. Down that ice water between drinks, down a good glass of water before you go to bed (hotel tap water is safe to drink despite the fact that our local water isn’t the best tasting), and you’ll find yourself in much better shape the next morning.

Where’s The Shrimp Cocktail – I was at Binion’s a couple of months ago and encountered a couple of guys near the old coffee shop looking lost. I told them that I live here and wondered if I could help them. They were looking for the famous shrimp cocktail and weren’t even sure what hotel it was in. (Obviously not our readers as we’ve highlighted news about the Golden Gate shrimp cocktail recently). Fortunately, I was able to point them in the right direction and note that they would have to obtain it in the coffee shop (Du-Par’s) due to construction on the deli. Oh, and gave them a card with the newsletter info.

With so many people returning to Las Vegas who have not visited in years (too expensive during the boom, they couldn’t afford to visit during the bust) and 19% of 2011 visitors as newbies, I’m seeing a record number of people literally walking around with a lost look. They pay good money to be here, then burn so much time trying to figure out what is going on and what they should do and see.

Many of you have friends thinking about coming or maybe even planning a trip. At the very least, send them over to https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com where they can read all of our archives and get up to speed! (It is a complicated web address… click over to it then copy and paste it into an email or IM to them)

Really Putting The Sin In Sin City – Lots of rumbling about the porn industry continuing to invade Las Vegas. Los Angeles has always been the adult film capital, but a recent law requiring condom use in adult films shot in L.A. has the industry looking for a new home, and Las Vegas’ libertarian live-and-let-live attitude and lack of regulation seem to be just what their looking for.

I’ll be honest: If you are in a business where location is agnostic (you make widgets that could be manufactured just about anywhere) and you are doing it in Southern California, I have one little exercise for you: Go to Realtor.com and see what kind of house $250k will get you in So Cal. Then do the same search and see what it will get you in Las Vegas. OK, I know… we don’t have the beach. But with the much lower cost of housing, labor, and no state income tax, you can afford to fly over and enjoy the beach probably more often than you do now!

Train To Nowhere Looking Even More Dead – With a terminus in beautiful Victorville, CA, the expectation that 2/3 of Las Vegas visitors from Southern California would have to be riding for it (not going to happen) to work out financially, and a projected cost that has almost doubled, it appears that the high speed train is headed for the grave. I doubt that even influential Nevada Sen. Harry Reid (a big proponent of the project) will be able to revive this one.

For a fraction of the cost, I-15 can be six-laned all the way to Las Vegas from Southern California. And/or a partnership between Union Pacific and a mix of public or private money could be used to increase capacity and speed on the existing rail line between the two areas. A rail line that happens to run all the way into downtown L.A. (not Victorville) with connections to Metrolink and Amtrak all over the region. Let’s not forget that airfare from Southern California to Las Vegas is currently running in the $140 round-trip range. The train to Victorville is looking at an $89 round-trip ticket.

Most Popular College – UNLV came in 12’th on U.S. News and World Report’s list that ranked colleges on a basis of what percentage of students that get accepted actually end up going to a particular school. Harvard, BYU, and Stanford topped the list. Although much maligned over the years as a “basketball school” and the red-headed stepchild of University of Nevada (Reno), UNLV has really come into its own as a vibrant place to study.

While somewhat on the back burner, we’re still hearing plans to transform the adjacent Maryland Parkway area into a walkable arts and culture corridor. Outside of downtown (which I’ve previously discussed), I predict that the general UNLV area is really going to pop in the next few years as a place to live. You’re in relative proximity of the college, Thomas and Mack, Strip, and airport.

However, a word of warning: This area sits just off the north/south runways at McCarran. When the winds dictate takeoffs to the north, the planes are buzzing your head . So, living in this area won’t be for everyone. If you are thinking of buying here, McCarran has a noise map (PDF) you may want to consider.

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!

The Gazillionaire Welcomes Tony Hsieh to the Gold Shoe Club – On Friday, April 6, The Gazillionaire and cast of Absinthe attended First Friday arts celebration to donate Bar Vendome to the monthly event. At the unveiling at Beauty Bar, Gaz presented zappos.com founder Tony Hsieh with the first pair of gold shoes ever to be bestowed to another person thus making him the very first member of ôThe GazillionaireÆs Gold Shoe Club.ö

Jerry Springer Hosts ôThe Price Is Right Liveö At BallyÆs Las Vegas – The Price is Right Live Stage Show at BallyÆs Las Vegas welcomes back special celebrity host, Jerry Springer, for an exclusive engagement April 25 û May 6 and May 16 û June 3. The show, from FremantleMedia, producers of ôAmerican Idolö and ôThe Price Is Rightö TV shows, features such fan-favorite games as ôPlinko,ö ôCliffhangers,ö the ôBig Wheelö and, of course, a fabulous ôShowcase.ö Springer will enlist audience members to play for a chance to win thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.

First Look Inside Gordon Ramsay Steak At Paris Las Vegas New Contemporary Steakhouse To Open Mid-May – Photos were released that give the first look inside Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas, the celebrated chef and television starÆs first Las Vegas restaurant. The images reveal the centerpiece of the 7,500 square foot, two-story restaurant: the Union Jack painted on the ceiling and the energy inducing neon sculpture that will hang directly below it.

Set within the Paris Las Vegas resort, which is whimsically modeled after the “City of Lights,” the restaurant design will celebrate Chef Ramsay and the city of London, where he lives. This innovative concept will reflect edgy, exciting and bold designs and will bridge the resortÆs Parisian theme with RamsayÆs British heritage.

Public House Springs Forward With New Menu Items – Executive Chef Anthony Meidenbauer has developed an array of new selections for spring at Public House, the celebrated new gastropub at The Venetian.

Starting with small bites, the delectable new offerings include the truffle arancini fondue, the Scotch egg, made with barley wine sausage and bacon mustard sauce, and foie gras, or crispy frog legs, made with tomatoes, brown butter, lemon, herbs and croutons.

Rock of Vegas Summer Concert Series Coming to Fremont Street Experience – Fremont Street Experience announces its summer concert series Rock of Vegas with an entertainment lineup of legendary rock ænÆ rollers from the 1980s. The free concert series in Downtown Las Vegas will kick off Memorial Day Weekend with Vince Neil, legendary singer of M÷tley Cr³e, and runs through Labor Day Weekend with a performance by the ultimate glam metal rocker, Dee Snider, legendary singer of Twisted Sister.

Historic California Hotel Celebrates May Day With 15th Annual Lei Day Polynesian Festival May 5-6 – California Hotel and Casino hosts the 15th Annual Lei Day Polynesian Festival on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

The annual Polynesian festival brings together musicians, dancers, artists, craftsmen and food and beverage vendors to showcase the very best of Hawaii. Entry to the two-day event is FREE.

Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer Now Offers Barbecue LickinÆ And Beer TappinÆ Happy Hour Specials – The new rock ænÆ roll-inspired restaurant, Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer, now offers tourists and locals alike the ideal Happy Hour spot with barbecue smokinÆ and drinks pourinÆ from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Excalibur Hotel & Casino.

Vegas UncorkÆd By Bon AppÚtit Reveals Chef Line-Up For Celebrity Chef Poker Tournament – Vegas UncorkÆd by Bon AppÚtit announces a line-up of world-renowned chefs including Bruce Bromberg, Scott Conant, Jose Andres, Stephen Hopcraft, David Myers, Anthony Meidenbauer, Jason Smith, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger for the highly anticipated Celebrity Chef Poker Tournament May 11 starting at 10:30 p.m. Taking place at the Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, a first-year resort partner at the epicurean festival, the event presents a rare opportunity for players to enjoy a world-class poker tournament alongside everyoneÆs favorite celebrity chefs and culinary personalities from Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan and Mandalay Bay in an incredible outdoor setting overlooking Las Vegas Boulevard.

Country Superstars At The Golden Nugget Las Vegas Celebrates New Show Format Featuring Headliner Cody Collins – Country Superstars, formerly known as Country Superstars Tribute, located inside the Golden Nugget Las Vegas, launched its new show format with the addition of Cody Collins, former lead singer of Lonestar, as its headliner during their Opening Night held on March 29, 2012.

Maverick Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon TourMaverick Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with beverages, snacks and Extra Flight Time in the Grand Canyon! Experience the journey of a lifetime. Your journey begins with a flight out of Las Vegas to Hidden Valley to see the arches. Continue your journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape.

Click To Book Maverick Dream Catcher
Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Absinthe by Erika Bayer-Polak

Absinthe, Las Vegas, show, Caesars PalaceAs soon as you enter the tent in front of Caesars Palace, the peculiar carny atmosphere initiates the sneaking suspicion that ôAbsintheö is not your standard fair.

One of the finest characteristics of ôAbsintheö is that it is difficult to pin down; it is a true variety show complete with acrobats, dancers, tightrope walkers, and singing. While there is something for everyone, being prudish will most certainly thwart your enjoyment.

Fantasy by Guy Chapman

Fantasy, Lorena Peril, LuxorDeep within the Luxor Casino, eager visitors looking to add a little bit of spice in their evening will not have to travel much farther than the little showroom theater that houses one of the StripÆs sexiest shows: Fantasy.

But make no mistake: Within that smaller-sized theater is allowed a level of personal intimacy to the events happening on the stage, all of which is complimented by the eye-pleasing ensemble cast that makes up this production. ôFantasyö is here to entertain, in a very attractive, and often very witty package. And alongside all of those genuinely beautiful women that dance to a variety of sexy musical numbers and styles, is the eveningÆs very attractive and talented Lorena Peril.

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

  • Las Vegas Breaks Record For Simultaneous Uncorking – 308 chefs, sommeliers, and culinary professionals gathered February 29, 2012 to break the Guinness World Record for most simultaneously uncorked bottles of wine. Here’s a clip of what it’s like to participate in history! Remember, tickets for the epicurean affair of the year, Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit are on sale now at http://www.vegasuncorked.com
  • Lied Discovery ChildrenÆs Museum – The Lied Discovery ChildrenÆs Museum is full of creative, interactive exhibits designed for kidsàbut most times, the grown-ups are the ones who walk away having the most fun.
  • Golf & Other Fore-Letter Words #043: An InsiderÆs Look at Shadow Creek – Host Dennis Silvers is joined by co-host Mark Brenneman (General Manager, Shadow Creek) who reveals an insiderÆs look at the exclusive and world-famous Shadow Creek, from his favorite holes, to some of the celebrities that have played there in the past.
  • 360 Vintage Vegas: El Rancho (audio, not video) – Isolated gambling clubs existed on Highway 91 before 1941 but the concept of a full scale resort with overnight accommodations, gaming, dining, entertainment and shopping all in one vacation destination wasnÆt conceived as something anyone would want in the harsh desert climate. The El Rancho not only offered something Highway 91 had never seen, it set a precedent by creating a themed vacation destination that would shape what would later become the Las Vegas Strip. This is the story of the El Rancho Vegas.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hi——having been visitors to Vegas every year for 60 years (we’re 84), my wife and I still get the itch to return. Of course our visits, as the years went by, became less strenuous and more nostalgic and required more “down time”. None the less, we still love to gamble. Craps, blackjack and video poker still give us a rush but has to be balanced with rest, relaxation and soothing beverages. (Did i mention Brandy Manhattan?)

Which brings me to the subject line “balconies and palm trees”. For the last 20 years or so our very favorite place to stay was the garden rooms at Tropicana. At that time many considered it a dump and in many respects it was: dirty elevators, lousy service and long waits at check-in. So why did we like it?—–The garden rooms with balconies, over looking a garden area with palm trees. Quite and restful (especially with a Brandy Manhattan within arms reach) sheer heaven!!! And yet within walking distance of all the exciting action you could ask for. The “Trop” pool was, and still is, one of the best in Vegas.

Unfortunately, the garden rooms were demolished as was the garden to make room for the younger generation. And so life goes on with the young replacing the old. But that’s OK!!! We lived our lives and now it’s their turn.——still would like to go back one more time!!! Don’t we all????

Al from Milwaukee

 

Ted Responds:

What an incredible outlook on life! Those old Garden Rooms at The Trop were pretty popular even in their waning days for the reasons you mentioned. In a recent issue, I noted how much I enjoy outdoor living and it really does add to a hotel experience when you can step out of your room to some fresh air.

The Sahara had some balcony rooms and I must assume those will still be available once the hotels is remodeled and re-opened (if and when… we’re not holding our breath). Most Imperial Palace rooms have balconies, but beware that the side of the hotel overlooking Carnival Court is subject to bands playing from Noon to 2 AM. You can request a room on the other side of the property (no guarantees) upon check-in, but you’ll lose the Strip view. The Cosmopolitan was originally designed to be condos and guests who stay there love the large balconies. However, be prepared to pay a nice chunk of change. No “Garden Room” prices there.

Incredible to hear that after 60 years, Las Vegas never gets old. Nothing like rolling the dice to get the blood flowing, and never a shortage of things to do and see. Thanks for the great comments!

Love your newsletter!

We visit Vegas every year and have been doing so since 1996. We would prefer to get the Bell Trans Bus from the Airport but, as we are from the UK, we arrive in Terminal 2 and there only seems to be one option from this terminal, which are the Taxicabs.

We have been longhauled many a time but didn’t know we could do anything about it. After a 10 hourish flight and standing in line at Customs, all we want to do is arrive at our hotel and chill out. It is most annoying when you know the journey is taking much longer than it should deliberately. Funny how the Taxicab from the hotel back to the Airport at the end of the holiday is so much quicker and cheaper. We always give a bigger tip if they are fair with us, so they are losing out when they longhaul us and charge more.

Is it possible to get to Terminal 1 from Terminal 2 to enable us to get the Bell Trans or any of the other Transport that is available there?

Thanking you in anticipation.

Kind regards,

Marlene

 

Ted Responds:

I have good news for you, Marlene. International arrivals are moving to the (soon to open) brand new Terminal 3. So, after decades of “banishing” those that fly the farthest to visit us to the aging and inconvenient Terminal 2, we’re finally going to roll out the red carpet for our international guests. Terminal 3 is a major terminal. (We drove by it the other day… it is huge). It will also serve a number of domestic carriers. I have to imagine that all of the shuttle bus companies will also serve Terminal 3. Local scribe Rick Velotta wrote a really great article Sneak peek: An inside look at McCarranÆs Terminal 3 that many of you may find of interest.

No question that the nice thing about airport shuttles is the set fee. The downside is that they may stop at a few hotels dropping people off before they get to your hotel. But if traffic is bad (and it isn’t getting any better on The Strip now that visitor numbers are closing in on breaking records), you don’t have to sit there and worry that the meter is running. Or getting longhauled.

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!
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  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe April 4, 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.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – A big milestone for me as April 3 marked my 19’th year here in Las Vegas. I always like to say “Time flies when you don’t know what you are doing!” Having The Strip in my back yard is still pretty cool after all these years and I can’t imagine ever tiring of it. May will also mark another milestone with the 13’th anniversary of this newsletter and this summer will bring the AccessVegas.com 5.0 design upgrade. We still have in-use code dating back to the 90’s!

With March Madnesss and Spring Break finally in the rear view mirror, things are seemingly returning to normal for Las Vegas. (If you can call Las Vegas normal)! Couple of breaking notes as we’re getting ready to send, both of which we’ll have plenty of coverage down the road:

  • Zip Lines On The Strip – Luxor and Excalibur have been floating around for a while the concept a series of three zip lines running between the two properties, including one from the top of the Luxor pyramid to the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Tropicana (the street, not the hotel). Lots of permitting and planning left to do, so don’t make your plans to ride itáyet. But they are moving forward with government reviews.
  • Sahara Moves Toward Securing Funding – The owner has gotten a reasonably decent grade regarding the probable success of a loan he needs to redo the property. As of now, plans are still being touted to refurbish The Sahara (to be renamed SLS Las Vegas) into an upscale hotel priced a tier below the Wynn/Encore, Venetian/Palazzo and Aria/Bellagio’s of The Strip.

    Talks are of an 2014 opening. Given that the remodeling seemingly can’t take more than a year (if that), I repeat my previous conjecture that they are taking a wait-and-see attitude both in terms of the economy and whatever other development may be resurrected on the North Strip. At this point, I do not see a hotel of the caliber they are aiming for having success in that location period.

Best Of Las Vegas – The Review-Journal arguably runs the most well-known “Best Of” balloting each year. You have to take it with a grain of salt because in previous years, only a few thousand people voted and this year they declined to print how many people participated. I mean, Outback Steakhouse won best steakhouse in a city brimming with some of the finest steak options in the world (even off The Strip). Still, some picks were worth noting:

  • Hotel – Bellagio (I say Encore).
  • Performer – Donny and Marie (No real argument).
  • Comedian – Carrot Top (I agree that he’s hilarious)
  • Magician – Criss Angel (Score one for the hype machine… I favor their editor’s choice of David Copperfield).
  • Attraction – Bellagio Fountains (No argument there).
  • Bargain Show – Mac King (Still funny after all these years).
  • Resort Architecture – Venetian (I concur and raised my eyebrows at the editor’s pick of Cosmopolitan, which simply looks like some nice hotel you’d find in any city).
  • Parking Garage – Cosmo (I’m with the editors who picked Bellagio, and the same thumbs-up to Encore. You can whisk your way directly up to the top floor of either and always find great open spots).
  • Hotel Coffee Shop – El Cortez (I’ve had my share of late night meals there in my day, no argument from me).

We’re actually going to do our own Best Of starting this summer, so that you guys can have a say. I’ve wanted to do one for a long time, but most polls get few voters because voting is tedious. Our voting process will be easy and fun and very unique. (Can’t spill the beans… I’ve never seen a readers poll with this kind of process before). Can’t wait to unveil it!

The World Is Not Enough – Venetian/Palazzo owner Sheldon Adelson has already successfully branched out to Macau and Singapore. Generally we don’t bother with global gaming expansion. But, we have a significant European readership and Mr. Adleson’s latest proposal is headed your way.

He wants to drop $22 billion (2.5 times what CityCenter cost) on a complex with six casinos, twelve hotels, bars/restaurants, shopping, golf… kinda like Las Vegas. He wants to do it in recession-plagued Spain citing their high international visitation rate and nice weather. (Recession, international visitation, nice weather… kind of reminds me of Las Vegas).

The deal is far from done. Adelson wants significant freedom regarding construction and architecture in a very image conscious country. He also wants Spain’s stringent anti-smoking laws altered to allow smoking in the casinos. If the project moves forward, it will be built in phases over the course of a decade. Any thoughts from our European readers? Drop us a line at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com. Speaking of…

Venetian Construction – The sidewalk in front of The Venetian is all torn up, as is part of the facade in that area. We were wondering if this was any indication of a possible re-start to the stalled tower they were building. The most answer we could get was that they are reconstructing the casino entrance in that area and they will let us know more if and when future projects are pursued.

So, we’re highly unlikely to see the revival of any major construction on The Strip this year. Having said that, consider this “catch-up” time. I mean, have you really seen and done just about everything there is to do in Las Vegas? Last I counted, The Strip has 25 hotel/casino properties (I didn’t count non-casino properties, shopping, or attractions). I’ve been to them all, but have you? There is always something new to see and do no matter how many times you visit!

Cleaning Up The Strip – Longtime readers know that one of my pet peeves has been that it seems like neither local politicians nor upper hotel management seem to spend any real time on The Strip (especially later in the evening when the party peaks) because year-after-year, many common visitor complaints have been neglected. Controversial* County Commissioner (remember, the Las Vegas Strip is not inside the Las Vegas city limits, so the county has jurisdiction) Steve Sisolak finally stepped up to the plate last year and spearheaded assembling a group to look into all of this and finally do something about it.

* Sisolak has been in the news of recent regarding a tangled mess revolving around a former flame and previously, he was the guy who was behind stopping the “strippermobile” that used to run up and down The Strip. (Do a YouTube search for it).

Among the suggestions: Empty garbage cans more often (DUH), power-wash the sidewalk numerous times per week (DUH), prohibit loitering on the pedestrian bridges (to eliminate the panhandlers who sit on them all day long), crack down the vendors and performers (who are generally doing business without the proper permits), and more police (not sure that will change anything as the police presence is already very noticable). The one thing no one can figure out how to tackle? The porn(card)slappers (which is the #1 complaint visitors have) The ACLU is adament about defending this “free speach”. (Whether you want to hand out escort leaflets or Bibles, you have the right to do so on public property).

In an odd way, these suggestions will bring The Strip up to the level of downtown! If you’ve ever been on Fremont Street in the wee hours of the morning, you’d see them using machines to clean the entire mall surface. I can’t ever remember seeing an overflowing garbage can downtown either. Speaking of downtown…

Downtown Real Life Monopoly – Zappos.com CEO Tony Hseih’s “Downtown Project” group recently bought the shuttered 7-11 building at the corner of Fremont and Las Vegas Blvd. (The Strip as it extends to downtown) for around $4 million. Then they turned around and plunked down more than $5 million for the Motel 6 on East Fremont (just a block up from the El Cortez). What on earth does he want with a Motel 6? He doesn’t. He’s tearing the damn thing down! What kind of hotel/casino is he planning on putting there? He isn’t.

None of his major investments in downtown Las Vegas (which are getting to be significant) have anything to do with gambling. He’s moving his company downtown and wants to create a much more affordable miniture version of Silicon Valley where tech start-ups can thrive. Among the ideas he’s tossing around for the property are affordable housing units, something he’s pretty passionatly talked about in light of the company moving to downtown. I’m very interested in seeing how a “tech incubator” downtown meshes with the Fremont Street Experience that most of us know. We’ll keep you posted!

Les Clefs dÆOr – One of the things we’re really happy and exited about is the expanding presence of Les Clefs dÆOr concierge members here in Las Vegas. Worldwide travelers know that members of this elite group are the gold standard of concierges (and interestingly enough, members wear a set of crossed gold keys on their lapel). Over the years, we’ve received complaints that Las Vegas “concierge” desks were often glorified ticket counters. Les Clefs dÆOr members are bringing a much higher level of professionalism to local concierge services, and it is a long time overdue. For more information, visit www.lcdusa.org

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!

Peepshow Joins The Fight Against Aids With Third Annual Las Vegas Broadway Bares: BARE-lesque On April 15 – PEEPSHOW, Las VegasÆ mega-hit striptease spectacular is pleased to announce the Third Annual Las Vegas Broadway Bares: Barelesque on Sunday, April 15, 2012 at 11:59 p.m., which will be held on the PEEPSHOW stage at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Hosted by ABSINTHEÆs dynamic duo The Gazillionaire and his assistant Penny Pibbets, the show will feature the sexiest entertainers from across the Las Vegas Strip, with a special performance by PEEPSHOWÆs Josh Strickland.

Vegas UncorkÆd By Bon AppÚtit Sets Guinness World Record For Most Wine Bottles Uncorked Simultaneously – Alain Ducasse, Bobby Flay And Nobu Matsuhisa Added To May Event – Chefs, sommeliers, mixologists and others from Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and Mandalay Bay set a new Guinness World Record by uncorking 308 bottles of Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon simultaneously. Amidst flying corks and free flowing wine, the crowd shattered the previous record of 252 in celebration of Vegas UncorkÆd by Bon AppÚtit. “Today weÆre making history with some of the worldÆs best chefs, sommeliers and mixologists,” said Adam Rapoport, Bon AppÚtitÆs Editor-in-Chief. “Setting this Guinness World Record is just the beginning of all the great programming and truly memorable moments youÆll see at Vegas UncorkÆd by Bon Appetit in May.”

X Burlesque Celebrates 10 Years As Las VegasÆ Hottest Topless Revue, Adds New Dance Numbers To Celebrate A Decade On The Las Vegas Strip – The most provocative show on the Las Vegas Strip, X Burlesque, celebrates 10 years as the cityÆs hottest topless revue with the addition of sexy new dance numbers. X Burlesque will celebrate a decade in Las Vegas on Thursday, April 19 at Flamingo Las Vegas. “WeÆre thrilled and excited to be celebrating X BurlesqueÆs 10th anniversary on the Las Vegas Strip,” said X Burlesque Creator and Producer, Angela Stabile. “Flamingo Las Vegas has been an unbelievable partner and weÆre looking forward to another ten years as Las VegasÆ sexiest revue.”

Caesars Palace Concierge Jasmin Vitale Honored With Prestigious Les Clefs dÆOr Achievement – Caesars Palace concierge supervisor Jasmin “Jas” Vitale has received the prestigious honor of a Les Clefs dÆOr (pronounced “lay clay door”), which is French for “the keys of gold,” by the prestigious namesake concierge organization. Displayed on a conciergeÆs uniform lapels, the crossed gold key symbol assures travelers they are dealing with a seasoned professional who is dedicated to serving their every need.

Las VegasÆ Hottest Chefs Cook To Fight Childhood Hunger In Las Vegas And Across America With $100 Dining Event – With a passion to fight childhood hunger, Las VegasÆ hottest chefs, restaurants, and mixologists will gather for Share Our StrengthÆs Taste of the Nation«, the cityÆs premier culinary benefit. Taste of the Nation Las Vegas will raise critical funds needed to support Share Our StrengthÆs efforts to end childhood hunger in the Las Vegas valley and across the nation. This yearÆs event will be Thursday, May 17 at Rain Nightclub at the Palms Casino Resort from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm, with a VIP reception beginning at 6:00 pm.

Maverick Canyon Dream Air and Land TourMaverick Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour û A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Maverick Canyon
Dream Air and Land Tour Now!

Las Vegas Show Review

O by Cirque du Soleil

Included on many peopleÆs “If you only see one show in Vegas see this one” list, “O” delivers as a classic Cirque production where theater, circus and surrealism combine on a lavish scale with breath-taking results. The title “O” derives from the French word “eau” (pronounced “oh”), meaning “water”, the showÆs central theme — from tiny droplets to torrential downpours. A 1.5 million gallon pool forms the centerpiece of this production, entertaining audiences in and of itself through an amazing series of technological transformations: from deep pool to shallow water to dry stage and back to pool again, playing host to one incredible act after another.

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 March 28, 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.

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – We had a little unscheduled gap in publishing. If you were sitting at home watching March Madness and wishing you could be experiencing it in Las Vegas… me too. Join the crowd. Oh, I was sitting in the city limits of Las Vegas, alright. At home with a double-whammy: First I experienced a nasty ankle sprain and then just as I was getting well enough to hobble around a little bit, I got creamed by a killer cold.

I raised the white flag and for the sake of both (staying off me feet and getting over the drain from coughing my brains out), I took a little over a week to get plenty of bed and couch rest. No March Madness with the crowds and crazies on The Strip, no out-and-about enjoying our stunning “not too hot, not too cold” March weather. The way my luck was running, I didn’t even bother to send a friend out to bet some games for me!

I’m fine, no pity party for me. But living in Las Vegas doesn’t guarantee life is going to be a bed of roses 100% of the time! Speaking of watching TV…

Outdoor Living – If the temps are anywhere between 60 and 90 and I’m at home, you can usually catch me on my back patio. I love being outside and getting some fresh air. Simply something special about outdoor living. This isnt’ Vegas related (plenty of Vegas, just keep scrolling), but I’ve been asked about how I have it wired to watch TV outside. This is far more basic and obtainable than most think: I keep an old CRT TV (old school before HD flat screens) on the back patio. Why? They are cheap (you probably have one collecting dust or go get one cheap on Craigslist) and nobody is going to steal it!

So do I have a cable and cable box out there? No way. I use an X10 Wireless Video sender (not a paid endorsement, nothing in Newkirk’s Notes is). Hook one of these little satellite dish looking gizmos to an output on your cable box and hook the other one into your outdoor TV. Withing minutes, you can watch anything on your cable box (including stuff you’ve DVR’d, pay channels, everything) out on your back porch or patio (or garage). So why watch TV indoors when the weather is nice!?! Warning: I have a covered patio (a must here in sunny Southern Nevada) so rain is no issue. If you don’t and you leave your set-up plugged in and unattended during rain, don’t hold me responsible for the damage!

The D Hotel Las VegasTransformation Is Underway – Fitzgerald’s downtown has “officially” changed their name to The D (we had news and a first photo last issue) and they’ve put up a massive building wrap you can’t miss. This is an iconic photo of the changeover as we understand the Fitzgerald signs are coming down very soon. So, here’s a last look at the good ol” “luck of the Irish” Fitz and the sexy new motif they are looking to give the property.

With the new performing arts center open, plans to fill in the few remaining vacant areas of Fremont East, and the Mob Museum, downtown is starting to pop with a real synergy. Dingy old downtown is under serious revitalization. Once The D (by fall) and Golden Gate (by summer) expansions/improvements are complete, our crystal ball sees the Las Vegas Club getting a complete Fitz-like overhaul and Binion’s refurbishing and re-opening their rooms.

Speaking Of The Golden Gate – If you are thinking of the old shrimp cocktail joint, prepare to be surprised. The deli is being relocated and the former deli area at the end of the casino is not an expanded gaming area plus spacious (compared to the old ones) new restrooms.

Significant changes clockwise from the upper left include 1. A retro Golden Gate display in the main entrance. 2. The huge new expanded rear entry (valet, cabs, limos) with a revolving door and the hotel’s longstanding vintage slot collection on display. 3. Entryway to the cozy check-in area featuring Las Vegas’ very first telephone (the hotel had the phone number 1) and other artifacts. 4. The actual check-in area. Compare that to the (seemingly mile long desk at MGM Grand) and you can see they are keeping their boutique property feel.

las vegas smith center for performing artsSmith Performing Arts Center – Last issue, we promised you photos of this popular new venue. Unfortunately, these pics grabbed with my phone don’t quite to it justice, but they will give you some idea. I will say that the building’s retro art deco feel is really a nice change of pace from typical Las Vegas architecture and the “ode to Hoover Dam” design that inspired it was a good call. Hoover Dam is going to be here a few hundred more years, and they wanted to imply that this building will be here to serve Las Vegan’s (and our visitors) for hundreds of years as well.

This is a building that would fit right into the mix of just about any major city downtown or arts district area in the United States. Well done!

The lower right photo is of the adjoining Symphony Park and has a really nice feel to it. I can see people gathering pre-event to enjoy the park and also possible special occasions taking place. If you look closely, you can see a number of downtown hotel casinos in the not-too-distant background. As we reported last week, looks are a little deceiving. Yes, it is that close to the established core of downtown. However, pedestrian walkways must eventually be constructed to scale the Union Pacific multi-track mainline that dissects this area on the run from L.A. to Chicago.

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!

ABSINTHE Welcomes To The Stage, Lijana Wallenda, Seventh Generation Member Of The Legendary Circus Family, The Flying Wallendas – The Gazillionaire and the cast of ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace, Las VegasÆ hottest show, welcomes high wire heiress Lijana Wallenda-Hernandez to the stage now through May 1. Wallenda is a seventh generation member of the world-renowned circus family, the Flying Wallendas and great grand-daughter of the legendary Karl Wallenda. With her captivating charm and mass sex appeal, Wallenda embodies the vision of a Greek Goddess, adding fabulous tricks to ABSINTHEÆs death-defying act. Wallenda will take to the sky as she joins the Esteemed Gentlemen of the High Wire, temporarily filling in for her husband Tony Hernandez.

Madame Tussauds Reveals Abbey Road Traveling Experience – The Beatles Interactive Exhibit On Display Through May 28 – Madame Tussauds Las Vegas located at The Venetian welcomed the Abbey Road Traveling Experience to its attraction. The exhibit, on display through May 28, features a recreation of The BeatlesÆ iconic ‘Abbey Road’ album cover.

Dance Into Spring With Joy And Splendor At Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – Spring has sprung at BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, now open to the public through May 13. This yearÆs show debuts the enchanting musical sounds of the harp and violin, a rotating windmill and a floral exhibition showcasing tulips, azaleas, hibiscus and lilies. A carousel, waterfall and ceiling-hung hand-painted parasols invite the spirit of spring with open arms.

Ice Performs As Michael Jackson ‘The King Of Pop’ In ‘2 Kings’ At The Rio – Ice may well be the youngest performing Michael Jackson on the planet at only age 26 and heÆs been performing as the legendary superstar since he was 14. He was born and reared in Gary, Indiana just like the late Michael Jackson. IceÆs talents are purely musical. He said, ‘I play the piano, drums, bass guitar and violin. My hobbies are limited to music and video games.’ He has toured the world performing as Michael Jackson. He exclaimed, ‘China was a culture shock. IÆve been to Brazil and Spain too doing my character and it seems like IÆm appreciated more by the audiences. They go wild.

Public House Kicks Off National Beer Day With Week-Long Celebration – Beer drinkers will unite when Public House, an American gastropub located in The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, celebrates National Beer Day with a prix fixe menu and beer pairing as well as the introduction of the new ‘Pub Club’ from Monday, April 2 through Saturday, April 7. The three-course meal priced at $48 per person will begin with the Scotch Egg paired with a Firestone Double Barrel Ale. The main-course will feature Public HouseÆs mouthwatering Short Rib paired with a smooth Deschutes Black Butte Porter. To end the experience with something sweet, patrons will enjoy the Irish Coffee Cheesecake paired with a Uinta Labyrinth.

Tender Steak & Seafood Introduces New Wine And Cheese Lounge Menu – With a sophisticated and upscale ambiance, TENDER Steak & Seafood at Luxor Hotel and Casino presents a new wine and cheese menu to offer guests an exquisite tasting experience. For smooth white or red tastings by the glass, guests will enjoy two glasses priced at $8 or four glasses priced at $15. For white wine pairing options, the menu features selections including Chateau St. Michelle Eroica Riesling 2008, Ravenswood Chardonnay 2006, Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2010, William Hill Chardonnay 2008 or a Cakebread Chardonnay 2008. For the red wine selection, guests will enjoy selections of a Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mac Murray Ranch Pinot Noir 2008, Ferrari-Carano Merlot 2006, Beaujolais Georges Duboeuf 2008, Apothic Blend 2009 or a Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006.

Cosmopolitan Teams Up With EA Sports To Bring Las VegasÆ First-Ever EA Sports Bar To The Strip – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas transforms the traditional sports bar concept by partnering with EA SPORTS, one of the leading sports entertainment brands in the world, to create Las VegasÆ first-ever EA SPORTS BAR powered by Sharp opening March 31. Combining the excitement of a sports bar, the comfort of a living room and EA SPORTS video games, the one-of-a-kind experience will feature Sony PlayStation 3 game consoles, a selection of EA SPORTS games, high-definition televisions broadcasting the dayÆs sporting events and a lively bar set among nine living room style vignettes.

Ben & JerryÆs 34th Annual ‘Free Cone Day’ Tuesday, April 3 Features Local Celebrity Scoopers For Charity – Ben & JerryÆs, the company that broke the mold for businesses demonstrating you could make a profit while giving back to the community, will commemorate its 34th Annual ‘Free Cone Day’ at Ben & JerryÆs Scoop Shops at the District at Green Valley Ranch and inside Sunset Station Hotel & Casino. The Scoop Shops enlist help from some of the cityÆs hottest entertainers who will scoop to benefit Lied Discovery ChildrenÆs Museum and St. JudeÆs Ranch for Children. All small cones are FREE with no purchase necessary but patrons are encouraged to make a donation to the storeÆs respective charity partners.

Maverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane TourMaverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane Tour û Fly aboard Maverick’s Beechcraft 1900D aircraft on a 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim where your ultimate adventure will begin. Enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas, panoramic overlooks and trails that can only be accessed from inside the park as your journey continues with ground transportation into the Grand Canyon National Park. Absorb the magnificence of the Grand Canyon and capture memories to last a lifetime as you enjoy a gourmet box lunch.

Click To Book Maverick Grand Canyon Explorer Plane Tour Now!

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I know there has been a lot of discussion about a pay version of the newsletter. Being a small business owner, I understand the need to have a pay version. That said, I donÆt recall (I could have missed it, as well) a like to sign-up for the pay version. I would be a subscriber!

You guys do a great job putting it together!

Thanks,

Larry

Hello … let me start by saying how much I appreciate your newsletter.

(Excuse my writing if I made mistakes and verb tense error, but I’m French Canadian and English is just a second language)

I went to Las Vegas for my first time in November and wrote my a very long email about it to say how much it was memorable, though i didn’t get publish, but I understand that you have many many to read. I just can’t wait to go back for a second time.

We went for 6¢ days and we did the entire Strip from the South Outlets up to Fremont street. My soon-to-be wife and I are no gambler and those who says that LV has nothing else to see/do/ offer than slot machines and poker … man … THEY ARE SO WRONG!!!!

We visit every casino, every casino/hotel pool backyard, every stores, went to every attractions each place offers, etc …. to resume, we saw everything the Strip & old downtown has to offer, free or not. Yes our days were loaded, not much rest from 8am ’till midnight but what a thrill !!!

Of course we didn’t see all the shows you would have to be ultra rich to see them all and probably stay there a whole year but we went to see Rod Stewart at the Colosseum at Caesar Palace and we loved it!!!!

We stayed at the Tropicana which was awesome. I know it’s been renovated recently which is kinda why we chose this place to stay, also the price were good! Though the hotel ain’t Strip Central, we wouldn’t mind going back for our second trip. Also we loved the coconut smell all around inside!!

Gotta say that your newsletter help me a lot while planning that first trip

Like I said, I just can’t wait to go back for a second time. Since we saw/did everything the Strip and downtown has to offer, except for the new stuff that will come out until then …. which is where your newsletter comes very practical …. our next time will concentrate on the outdoor fun. We fought the temptation to go see the Grand Canyon VERY HARD, to give us a good reason to come back.

So our next time will be about an helicopter tour in Grand Canyon with Rafting on the Colorado river … Hoover Dam … dune buggy in the desert … Red Rock Canyon … Splash Canyon Waterpark … Bootleg Canyon Zip lines … Bryce Canyon … and much much more!

Now, about the upcoming subscriptions. I just wanted to know a few things

1) when will it start

2) what will be the payment options

3) how much will it be

4) will you have different options : per month / half-year / per year

Thanks to your devotion to Las Vegas tourism and for your excellent work. Love to read you!

Your Quebec City fan … Jeff

 

Ted Responds:

I’ve been happily surprised at the number of both emails and even phone calls to our comment line wondering about when we go subscriber based, the details, how to pay (we’ll offer everything from Paypaltgo old fashioned check), etc.

While I appreciate so many who see the value of the newsletter as-is (and willing to help chip in to keep it at the current level), we want to offer more to subscribers as a way to thank them for helping out. Hence, we’re working on a huge behind-the-scenes overhaul and upgrade of AccessVegas.com to accommodate a subscriber area. That needs to be in place before we can really do anything.

THEN, I’m hoping that we can develop the online app we’re going to include with subscribership. I can’t spill too many of the details, but we’re so sure that this app will save you as much as (or pretty close to) the cost to subscribe, that we’re going to offer a money-back guarantee. At the end of your yearly subscription if you don’t feel that you got your money’s worth, we’ll refund the entire amount.

Regarding this app, don’t worry if you don’ have a smart phone or a tablet. Even if you don’t own a cell phone, you’ll be able to use it right on your computer before you head out here and get great value out of it. If you have a smart phone, you’ll be able to use it while you are here and we promise you’ll find it an incredible aid. (Once again, wish we could spill the details, but we can’t as this really has not been done before). If you can surf the internet on your phone or tablet, you’ll l be able to enjoy this app no matter who makes your phone or what system you are on.

Another thing we’ll be doing for subscribers is guaranteeing (within reason) a personal answer toáVegas questions you submit. We don’t know everything, but we usually know how to find the answer. Right now, we do not have the staffing to do so.

Per cost, we’re currently looking at $23.95 per year. Less than $2 per MONTH. The plan will only be yearly and here’s why: We work hard to put out great Vegas info all year. Even if you only read when you are getting closer to a trip, you have TONS of archived newsletters to go back and look through. If we provided a short-term option, we’d be face with people who only pay a few dollars for the couple of months before their vacation, they’d use the app (which is looking to be very expensive to develop and maintain), ask us questions with a guaranteed response and basically use more of our resources than they are paying for. The math simply does not work out.

If you enjoy a certain hobby (whether motorcycle riding or knitting) and you subscribe yearly to a publication that covers it, you pay for the year even if you may go a few months at a time without being active in your hobby. That affords the magazine a stable financial base to provide all the great information they prepare for you all year.

We’re going to be doing these special things for subscribers because the subscribers are the ones who are willing to really support what we’re doing! We do the “Vegas Homework” for you so that you don’t have to spend countless hours trying to hunt down all this info yourself. Just the time you save in vacation planning makes it well worth it even if you only visit once per year.

In response to Jeff: Your English is fine and we really appreciate the great trip report. I’ve always said that if you had an entire month in Las Vegas, you couldn’t do and see everything. But it sounds like you almost tried! Absolutely, one can go from 8 AM until Midnight for a week and not even be close to getting board.

Good for you that you weren’t scared to venture downtown or check out the outlet malls and really take it all in!

I highly recommend seeing the Grand Canyon. It is one of those things people simply can’t begin to comprehend until they see it in real life.

What great excitement. When I read letters like yours, it makes me so happy that we’re able to enjoy such an amazing and memorable vacation!

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 March 15, 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.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – If you are reading and just returned from a weekend visit, all I can say is “Uh-Oh”. Weather this past week was absolutely stunning with highs near 80 F, mostly sunny days, and nights that never got way too cold. That is, right up through Friday. Then came Saturday. I’m not sure what happened overnight, but Saturday brought some pretty hard steady rain andádownright cold temps that barely hit the mid-50’s. And to think that just the day before, I’d been kicking back watching TV on the back patio while enjoying dinner and a cocktail. Thankfully, The rain is supposed to be gone by Monday and we’re back into the 70’s where we usually are this time of year.

This kind of hits home on a couple things I regularly remind you about: 1. The temperature here in the desert has some wild swings. Always assume that it could be 10-15 degrees warmer or cooler than average on any given day, and that the weather can vary dramatically from day-to-day. 2. I’ve talked about how everyone’s Vegas experience is unique. Come here on Memorial Day weekend and it is much different than the week before Christmas (both in terms of crowds and temperature). Those who were here midweek last week went home and told all their friends how incredible Vegas weather is in March. Those here this weekend are going to go home and say Never visit Vegas in March… it is cold and stormy!

Viva No Elvis – Cirque du Soleil has announced the replacement for Viva Elvis at Aria in CityCenter. Not wanting to take any risks, they are bringing Zarkana here after hugely successful runs in both Moscow and New York City. The question is whether an already saturated show market (certainly saturated with Cirque shows) can absorb another production and whether CityCenter’s “way back off The Strip” location will be a hindrance to ticket sales.

Harmon Update – The Harmon is the unfinished hotel which is part of the CityCenter project, sitting right next to The Cosmopolitan. Construction defects halted work on the project. The builder says that if it gets torn down, they’ll never be able to absolve themselves from responsibility for the defects. (Any evidence in their favor in a protracted court battle will be gone). Clark County wants it torn down as the defects evidently make it vulnerable to collapse in an earthquake. Next hearing is July 9. I’m guessing we’re going to see it imploded early fall.

New Performing Arts Center – Thanks in part to $105 million in car rental taxes from you guys (funding slightly more than 1/5 of the project), downtown Las Vegas has unveiled the new Smith Performing Arts Center. It certainly is beautiful and the movers and shakers and local press are ga-ga over it. We were the largest city in the U.S. without such dedicated performing arts facility. Boy oh boy, we’re in the big leagues now!

I confess to being just a tad bit snarky because for some reason, the people with the biggest inferiority complex about living in Las Vegas (and the biggest boosters of this project) are the exact people who have done extremely well here. Nobody every stopped them from picking up and moving to San Francisco or New York City. How about you quit being embarrassed of being a Las Vegan?

A very pleasant addition to a city? Absolutely. A stunning venue that is a must-see? The few who have had the opportunity to attend an event there so far have raved about it. An awesome addition to the city and downtown? You bet. But something that changes the way the world sees us (in terms of arts and culture)? Not even close.

Opening night was a star-studded event hosted by Doogie Howser Neil Patrick Harris and featured artists ranging from Willie Nelson to Joshua Bell to Jennifer Hudson (just to name a few of many). It was filmed for TV and is slated to appear on PBS (date not yet set, we’ll let you know).

For those wondering which two Fremont Street hotels this venue sits between? It doesn’t. It is on the west side of the railroad tracks in the vicinity of the outlet mall, World Market Center, etc. At just about a mile from the Fremont Street hotel area by car or foot, I wouldn’t suggest the walk (especially if you are dressed up to see a performance) because parts of downtown are still pretty sketchy. But you are talking a cheap cab ride from Fremont Street and probably about $15 from The Strip.

Talk is underway of walkways to connect the new Smith Center to the tourist part of downtown. As the crow flies, you’re only talking four blocks. I’ve expressed concerns that attendees to events won’t contribute to the downtown economy. Having to park downtown, eat, drive or cab to the venue, then back around again to downtown for after show drinks just makes no sense. Walkways over the railroad tracks need to be expedited. Once in place, a walk from Fremont East all the way to the Smith Center will be a very manageable and enjoyable 10 blocks.

We’ll list performances for this venue in our Entertainment Calendar just as we do other concerts and headliners. Free walking tours of the venue are available at www.thesmithcenter.com/explore/tours

What Is This Mess? – The opening salvo on the construction of Project Linq. To those familiar with Harrah’s, Carnival Court is on the left. Remember the ice cream store next to Carnival Court at the end of the mall-like walkway? Gone. You’re looking straight through to one of the Imperial Palace towers. To the right is what used to be stores lining the walkway from Imperial Palace to Carnival Court.

Playboy Club Closing – It appears that the Playboy Club at The Palms is closing. Very strange indeed as it was deemed a great fit for Las Vegas and was the 35’th highest revenue generating dayclub/nightclub in the United States in 2010. With founder George Maloof no longer having the level of ownership in the hotel which he used to, one has to wonder if this is a “bean counter” move. The hotel may be getting out of a revenue sharing deal for use of the iconic brand. But without the Playboy name, will the club perform as well?

Just Call Us Tournament Town – With the announcement of the PAC-12 moving their basketball tournament to Las Vegas next year, that brings the total number of tournaments we host to four. Unheard of for any other city. Besides the PAC-12, we also host the Mountain West Conference, West Coast Conference, and Western Athletic Conference tournaments. (OK, the last three aren’t the Big-10 or SEC, but still…). This occurs right around the same time we host NASCAR and just prior to March Madness making March one of the most chronically busy times of the year here. The PAC-12 event will take place at the MGM Grand Garden arena.

Fitz Becomes The D – This past week, Fitzgerald’s downtown renamed itself “The D” (which stands for downtown and is also an homage to the city of Detroit, where the brothers that own the place come from). Pretty much everything that we’ve reported on here since late November is now official and underway. Downstairs, expect a Golden Gate (casino) style party vibe including an outdoor bar with go-go dancers and dancing dealers inside. (The D is owned by the same guys who own Golden Gate). If thump-thump music isn’t your thing, the upstairs casino will be retro-Vegas (including some popular vintage slots from decades gone by) and be more of a tame experience.

They are going to remodel all the rooms, working two floors at a time. Although the tallest building in downtown Las Vegas, only a handful of the rooms at the south end feature a view of the Las Vegas Strip. (Might not hurt to see if you can ask for one upon check-in). An new one-way escalator will go from Fremont Street up to the second floor casino. They are also claiming that they’ll have the fastest wi-fi of any Las Vegas hotel. Of course, given how poor the wi-fi in many hotels can be (which is insulting because you are paying for it either as a separate fee or as part of a resort fee), that shouldn’t be hard to pull off.

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!

Payard Patisserie And Bistro At Caesars Palace Swings Into Spring With Fashionable Chocolate Decorated Easter Eggs – This spring, Payard Patisserie & Bistro brings the finest in French design to Caesars Palace with intricately adorned chocolate pastries. The confectionary is adding to the chocolate shopÆs imaginative, effervescent atmosphere, setting new trends this season with decadent Easter-themed pastries and chocolates. Beginning March 15, the pastry shop will present an assorted collection of chocolate Easter eggs and bunnies. As shown in the photos above and attached, specially featured will be the new cheeta and zebra-themed eggs offered for the first time this year, and the chocolate print eggs returning from their debut last year, among several other variations. Made with 72 percent dark chocolate and the rest milk and white chocolate, the eggs are created with a customized mold and painted with assorted patterns. Recipients who break open the eggs will be awarded with additional Easter goodies located inside each egg, including miniature chocolate and candied eggs.

The Smith Center For The Performing Arts Opens In Las Vegas With Star-Studded Concert – History Making Night Featured Award-Winning Musicians And BroadwayÆs Best – An extraordinary line-up of performers from across the arts community ushered in a new era of culture as they graced the stage for the opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas on March 10. Led by quintessential host and award-winning actor, Neil Patrick Harris, the evening featured performances by the whoÆs who of music and BroadwayÆs brightest stars.

Frank Marino Unveils First Ever ‘Divas Las Vegas’ Gaming Table At Imperial Palace – March marked another first for Frank Marino, Las VegasÆ longest-running headliner. The superstar female impersonator has two stars on the Las Vegas Walk of Fame, a street named in his honor, his own official day (February 1), a key to the city and his own building wrap on the famed Las Vegas Strip. The only thing missing was his own branded gaming table û until now. Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino recently welcomed to its gaming floor the first-ever Frank Marino and ‘Divas Las Vegas’-themed gaming table. The game puts a new spin on the typical betting wheel. Instead of betting on numbers, guests now have the opportunity to bet on impersonators from the show, including Cher, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Diana Ross, Liza Minnelli, Janet Jackson and, of course, Marino.

$200,000 Superstar Bingo Extravaganza Returns to Riviera – The Riviera Hotel & Casino, home to the only bingo room on the Las Vegas Strip, brings back its $200,000 Superstar Bingo Extravaganza on Mar. 28 and 29. There will be 20 games played per day on both days with a minimum payout per game of $3,000 plus a $25,000 Superstar Coverall at the end of both sessions. Check-in and registration begins on Mar. 27.

Aria’s March Menus Make Springtime In LV Even Better – This month only, ARIA Resort & Casino is serving up Signature Tasting Menus highlighting fresh ingredients, just in time for spring. Whether youÆre lounging by the pool, catching some March Madness, or hitting the links at a local golf course û whatever March means to you û round out your day with out-of-this world cuisine at AMERICAN FISH by Michael Mina, Jean Georges Steakhouse and Sirio Ristorante.

Grand Canyon Air TourGrand Canyon Air Tour û Sit back and relax as you experience this spectacular air excursion through the Grand Canyon. Highlights of this trip include Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Lake Las Vegas and Fortification Hill an extinct volcano. Fly through Black Canyon and on your return to the south Las Vegas valley.

Click To Book Grand Canyon Air Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We’re closing in on the debut of AccessVegas.com 5.0 (hey, we’ve been around since 1997) and due to those time constraints we’re not running readers letters this week. Members Mania is a popular feature which unfortunatelyáwill be sporadic until our site upgrades are finished.

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