Subscription Banner

Advertisement

Luxury Vegas Flights,
Private Terminal (no TSA),
Start At $89.
This is a bucket list item:

Take a Las Vegas city tour with Maverick Helicopters - Click Here

Enjoy Our Archives

Access Vegas Insider Vibe September 14, 2011

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

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – A “cool and humid” (for us) Las Vegas. On Sunday, the 10 year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, I was snoozing during the afternoon and was jolted by a tremendous noise. I don’t live that far from The Strip and was jolted up. Fortunately, it was “only” a torrential hail storm with cloudy skies and lighting. We pretty much never get hail and it seemed really surprising considering that the temperature at that time was well into the 80’s. Weird coincidence that it happened on 9/11.

The weather wasn’t done yet! Starting about 4 AM on Wednesday, it started pouring rain. For hours on end. We had flooding all over town, including cars getting stalled and floating away. We’ll have those stories and some video next week.

palazzo las vegas september 11
Palazzo Las Vegas’ new LED building lights were turned a patriotic color scheme over the September 11 weekend. It looked very impressive and the photo does not do it justice.

Fall “Membership” Drive – We’ve been publishing this complimentary newsletter since 1999 and we’d really like to keep it that way. However, I won’t beat around the bush: We crunched the numbers and figured out that if we charged a nominal $23.95 per year (less than $2 a month — not much more than a soda or coffee that you grab at the convenience store without even thinking about it), we would bring in more revenue even if we lost the vast majority of subscribers. To put things in perspective, another Las Vegas publication similar to ours charges even more than we’re proposing and only publishes monthly!

We do need to increase revenue to ramp up our plans to upgrade our coverage. We live in a streaming video world, yet we do no streaming video. We live in a social networking world, but we don’t have the budget to pay someone to hang out and interact and research and answer all of your Las Vegas questions. You get the picture. And it all takes money. Just like you don’t work for free, I really can’t get someone to devote 40 hours a week to helping us help you at no cost.

As I noted, we’d like to stay the course keeping things complimentary. However, to do so we need a little participation from you, our dear readers. If we can bump up our subscriber numbers so that we increase our advertising revenue (the more readers, the more we can ask in ad rates) and if we can bump up other participation in what we do, we can maintain the status quo.

If you enjoy this newsletter and find it valuable in helping you get the most out of your Las Vegas vacations (and I know you do because many of you write in and tell us), here are some things you can do to help. And the more of them that you do, the more you are helping say “thanks” for all the time and hard work we’ve dedicated to you.

  • We know that many of you post trip reports or even just short notes to Tripadvisor and other travel message boards and forums. Don’t be shy about including the fact that the ACCESS VEGAS newsletter helps provide you valuable information that helps your Vegas visits. Some venues won’t let you post a link, but at least people can do a web search for it.
  • Book though he links we provide in this newsletter and at AccessVegas.com. I’m constantly amazed at people who write and ask us for personal Las Vegas advice and we find out they booked elsewhere. And they are asking us because that other site they spent their money with never got back to them (surprise, surprise, surprise). We like to help, but it isn’t very polite to book elsewhere then expect us to spend time helping you with all your personal trip questions. We simply don’t have the staff… because we can’t afford the staff… because you booked with someone else!

    * Our hotel booking partner Las Vegas Hotel Deals has some of the best rates in the industry. If you book elsewhere, at least compare what they are offering. They buy large blocks of rooms at wholesale from the various hotels and pass the savings along. Sometimes, they are even less expensive than the price the hotel offers you on the “official” site.

    And no, they aren’t second-choice rooms. You are placed into the room you get at a hotel generally based on what they have available when you arrive. If you go to the Las Vegas Hotel Deals site and call them to book (perfectly understandable), you need to specify that you found about about them from ACCESS VEGAS. That way, they know that their advertising dollars are well spent supporting what we do here. (If you book online, they know we sent you from the link we use to send you to them).

    * Go see one of the main shows we advertise here. Right now, those are Jersey Boys, Peepshow, Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular, and The Lion King. These are not third-rate shows. These are the biggest, best, award-winning shows on the Las Vegas Strip. They believe in supporting us. They see the quality of the content that we produce for you. They are all fantastic shows. Go see one and remember to book by clicking on one of the ads in this newsletter. You’ll be happy you did — we’ve received zero bad feedback about any of these shows — and it will show support for what we are doing here. By the way, if you want to see The Lion King, book soon. Their unique Vegas run is over at the end of the year.

    * Going to see another show or looking for an interesting tour? Go to AccessVegas.com and browse and select and buy at the site. We’ve recently made big changes in the companies we use for Las Vegas show tickets and we’re bringing you some of the best pricing and selection.

  • Go follow (like) the Access Vegas Facebook Fan Page. We’re now posting regularly, and sometimes with things that don’t make the newsletter deadline. And, we’re actively responding and participating with you now. When you like a post (or especially if you respond to a post or ask us a question), your friends also find out about us. And, it will give you a chance to start meeting other “friends” who enjoy Las Vegas.
  • Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/AccessVegas We’re closing in on 10,000 followers (more than some of the big hotels have), and yes… those numbers matter. If everyone who subscribes to this newsletter (who has a Twitter account) followed us, that number would spike in a HUGE way. And… in this day of social media, it does matter Potential advertisers look at our reach. Same with Facebook follower numbers.

    Here’s the deal: We treat our Facebook and Twitter followers with respect. We don’t spam a bunch of garbage. We don’t post three times ever hour (unless breaking info warrants it). You won’t see 40 posts a day that are basically @joe_whoever Oh, saw that… very funny where you are otherwise completely out-of-the-loop. Just good, solid Las Vegas information.

Well, there you have it. We can go either way on this thing but I’d love most to be loyal to our long-time readers and keep this complimentary. Remember, we’re independent. No government money, no local “tourist promotion” money. Which is how we like it so we can speak our minds. But freedom comes with a price.

To those of you who are already doing the above, we are greatful and offer our many thanks for your support. If we must go the paid route, we will absolutely work it out so that a year’s free membership comes with any purchase from our sponsors. If you can help me with the above, I look forward to helping you have the best Las Vegas vacation you could ever imagine year-after-year for many years to come.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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!

Starlet Angel Porrino Returns To Take Center Stage In Peepshow At Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino – The E! Network’s ‘Holly’s World’ co-Star and ‘Absinthe’ Performer Angel Porrino Returns to Join the Cast of PEEPSHOW as ‘Bo Peep’ – PEEPSHOW, Las Vegas’ hottest show and only striptease spectacular is pleased to announce that Las Vegas local Angel Porrino, co-star on the hit TV series, ‘Holly’s World’ on E! and featured performer in ‘Absinthe,’ will once again take center stage to take over the role of ‘Bo Peep,’ a modern woman who discovers her sexuality, during Holly Madison’s hard-earned vacation. Porrino has been confirmed to reunite with the cast from September 19-25, 2011 and December 5-11, 2011 to perform alongside a sizzling ensemble of sexy PEEPSHOW GIRLS – showstoppers from film, TV and Broadway; Cheaza, the beautiful Peep Diva; and Josh Strickland, PEEPSHOW male lead singer and ‘Holly’s World’ co-star.

Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Kicked Off Football Season – Lagasse’s Stadium inside The Palazzo kicked off football season with a bang tonight. While guests enjoyed Emeril Lagasse’s signature dishes, fans were decked out in their favorite Steelers and Packers team colors while catching all the action on one of the 120 flat screen TVs. A guest commented, “I’ve been all over the world but never been to a place like this where you can bet and have a great time.” Photo credit: Robyn Preske, IS Photography, ImagesOfVegas.com

Rediscover RMS Titanic One Artifact at a Time – Artifact Feature: The Big Piece – Twenty six years ago this month, the wreckage of the most infamous ship in history, RMS Titanic, was discovered at the bottom of the North Atlantic. Today, the largest artifact ever recovered, appropriately called The Big Piece, can be found in an unlikely place; in the middle of the desert at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor, Las Vegas.

The Sporting House Bar and Grill Las Vegas Kicks Off New Promotions for 2011 Football Season – The Sporting House Bar & Grill at New York-New York Hotel & Casino kicks off the 2011 NFL and collegiate football seasons this week with a bang! As teams get ready to march down the field, guests can score with promotions including Thursday Night Bucket Night, Sunday Night Touchdown Table and Monday Night Blitz while enjoying delicious food in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Seasonal Menus at ARIA Restaurants Highlight Culinary Trends for Fall – October and November Menus Feature Squash, Apples, Plums, Quail, Chestnuts, Cranberries and More – ARIA Resort & Casino will launch spectacular menus this October and November designed around the fresh culinary produce of the season. ARIA executive chefs will blend favorite ingredients such as lobster and Kobe beef with seasonal elements such as pears, squash, turnips, cranberries and apples infusing each dish with current and delicious items that highlight the very best of fall’s culinary trends.

Special Event Updates for Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & Bar-B-Que NFL and college football specials – Treasure Island, Las Vegas keeps the fun going all week long within Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall and Bar-B-Que with new special events including a party to kick off the National Football League’s (NFL) first game of the season September 8.

The game will be broadcast on most of Gilley’s flat screen televisions, with Gilley’s Girls serving four Budweiser/Bud Light Bottles for $15 and $3 draft beers during the game, which begins 5:30 PST. The specials will be available each Saturday, Sunday and Monday during the college football and NFL regular seasons.

Each week, Gilley’s offers the following:

Andre’s At Monte Carlo Launches New Bistro Menu For Fall – Incorporating the Freshest Seasonal Ingredients, Andre’s New Bistro Menu is Ideal for Guests Who Seek a Casual, Yet Upscale Dining Experience at a Great Value!

Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at Monte Carlo is now serving fall flavors with our new Bistro menu. Served a la carte on our second level, the new menu offers delectable cuisine for all of our guests, at a Great Value! The indoor Terrace setting is perfect for couples or small groups and the private dining salon is spacious enough for groups ranging from 15 to 45 people.

The bistro menu is as follows:

Grand Canyon Explorer TourGrand Canyon Explorer 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. Operator Maverick Airline a division of the Maverick Aviation Group.

Click To Book Grand Canyon Explorer Tour áNow!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

You keep mentioning Las Vegas as a retiree dream. We’re with you all the way except for one thing. WeÆre English so canÆt come for more than a few weeks!

Somebody should persuade the Governor to look at introducing a “Silver Card” for anybody worldwide looking to retire to Nevada or anywhere else we all like to go. It would be the same as a Green Card but for people of retirement age. If we could meet the criteria i.e. enough money to support ourselves we would be allowed in. It could be re-assessed every two years or so and it could only be a win-win scenario. We would buy houses, we would spend money. We would cost the state nothing but put a heck of a lot in!

Harold & Liz (Sherwood Forest, England)

Shortly coming for visit number 24 and already owning a house in LV

 

Ted Responds:

What a great idea! Immigration is handled at the Federal level (unfortunately, our governor can’t do much about it) but I absolutely agree that a residence card for retirees of sufficient resources would be an excellent idea. Last I checked, you aren’t the people trying to come into our country and blow things up.

I’m actually going to write my two U.S. Senators (one of which is the “all powerful” Harry Reid, who I think would love to champion this kind of legislation) and I’ll let you know what they say about the issue. This idea could be a boon for places like Nevada and Florida which are both hurting economically.

This is a great time to address a thought I often hear (especially from those who cover Las Vegas from out-of-state but don’t move here): If I moved to Las Vegas, it wouldn’t be “special” anymore and I wouldn’t get that rush I get from visiting.

Listen… if you love Las Vegas like I do, the rush never goes away. I can see 2/3 of The Strip from the main street in my neighborhood. I never get tired of it. It never stops putting a smile on my face. I still get that surge of adrenalin every time I hit The Strip or Fremont Street.

In fact, living here solves the biggest serious downside of a visit: You are no longer pressed for time. Let’s use the Stratosphere Tower as an example. I always enjoy going up there. Especially around sunset, but anytime of the day or night it provides an awesome view. When you are on vacation, you have to weigh the time and cost to get there and back and the time you spend in the tower. The clock is always ticking. So much to see and do, and so little time to do it all.

When you live here, that little problems goes bye-bye. If I want to hop in my car and go up to the Strat Tower, I just do it. Have a real special day coming up (birthday, anniversary, something good to celebrate) and want a world-class restaurant? Your only problem is deciding which world-class restaurant to enjoy.

I love the $1.99 shrimp cocktail at the Golden Gate. So when I want one, I hop in the car and go get one and then usually stay and enjoy the live music downtown. If I want a cocktail, I can head to a local bar. Or I can head to one of the great lounges on The Strip like Rhumbar and soak up the view and atmosphere.

Many people think about visiting the Grand Canyon or even Hoover Dam, but don’t want to deal with the time and expense. (Both are well worth the time and expense). When you reside here, no big deal to take 1/2 the day to hit Hoover Dam, or spend the time to go see the Canyon.

And guess what? Even living here, you’ll never be able to see or do everything. There is simply that much fun to be had!

Thank you very much for an informative, fun and wonderful e-newsletter. I subscribed to this about a year ago when we starting enjoying Vegas again this time on a basis. My husband’s 91 year old grandmother recently bought property out there as her “second home”. She is still extremely independent and loves everything about Vegas, so we all look forward to your weekly emails.

We really love all the fact your newsletter is not all about gambling as none of us our much into gambling. Are there any “food tours” or taste of Vegas planned for the year? We tried to read things on the Chamber of Tourism site but they seem to be having some web issues.

I have to say on behalf of my family, thanks for all you do and keep up the great work! We enjoy every last sentence you publish!

Maria Vu-Ta

 

Ted Responds:

First of all, my hat is off to your Grandmother. Mine passed away a few years ago (she lived her final years here) and she also loved to get out and play bingo and a few other games. We routinely hear from readers in their 80’s who still enjoy Las Vegas. Having some fun keeps you young!

We set out to be a lifestyle publication instead of a gaming publication. Look… I used to count cards and sports bet professionally. I know the gaming side. But most of you just come to have fun. You may (or may not) choose to try your luck. But you will eat, see some attractions, take in a show, have a few drinks.

We have taken your note to heart and did publish quite a bit of information regarding restaurant week this year. A couple of the other things we need to work on are listing all the various prix fixe menus that many of the nicer places have (which lets you sample their menu without hurting your wallet so bad) and also creating a yearly listing of recurring events (especially the food-related ones). Which is of course another reason we need to add help, which is exactly why I spent the first part of this newsletter appealing for everybody’s help to get us there!

Being from Canada, we enjoy being kept up to date on whats happening in Vegas. Usually get away twice a year and always end up in Vegas! Find AccessVegas to be the best site available keeping us informed.

Returning in Nov. to Vegas, hoping to see Rod Stewart. Wondering if the renovations to the Plaza Hotel will be complete by then? Looking forward to seeing the old Plaza all fixed up! Keep the good stuff coming!

Tom and Cindy

 

Ted Responds:

The Plaza has been “soft opening” and looks great. We’ll have a full first-hand report and photo set next issue, and have links to news stories in the More section below. Thanks for the kind words!

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.

Plaza Hotel Reopens!

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe August 31, 2011

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

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

Ted is involved this week in research and development for some exciting new features we’ll be rolling out over the winter. He wishes everyone (where applicable) a happy and safe Labor Day weekend and a quick recovery to those affected by Irene.

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff.

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

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!

McFadden’s Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick’s Day On Saturday, September 17 – Halfway Doesn’t Mean Half the Celebration – McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino is ready to celebrate its second favorite day of the year with a æHalfway to St. Patrick’s Day’ celebration on Saturday, September 17. The Irish hot-spot will party all day with authentic Irish food, cocktail specials and plenty of Irish fun.

Partygoers will kick-off McFadden’s halfway celebration with a $10 Irish breakfast including eggs, sausage, Irish soda bread and more, along with half priced green beers and half priced 32-ounce pitchers of green beer for $5, served all day. All Irish partiers will enjoy ‘Happy 2 Hours’ from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. for only $15, followed by an open bar from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. priced at $20 for ladies and $30 for guys.

Bellagio Unveils Newly Redesigned Guest Rooms – AAA Five Diamond Resort Enhances Experience With Fresh, Elegant Designs – Poised to set a new standard in luxury accommodations, Bellagio unveiled a fresh, elegant collection of newly redesigned rooms this week. Each of the three distinct color palettes was carefully created to further enhance the AAA Five Diamond guest experience at one of the world’s most iconic resorts.

“We want guests to feel inspired from the moment they step off the elevator, ” said Randy Morton, president and chief operating officer of Bellagio. “The incredible combination of vibrant, yet warm, colors, beautiful botanical imagery and the overall crisp ambiance should set the tone for a very special experience. ”

Tacos and Tequila Introduces Decadent Desserts With A Mexican Twist – Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor Hotel and Casino introduces new dessert items to their menu, guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

After enjoying T&TÆs delicious enchiladas or homemade chips and salsa, thereÆs no better way to satiate your taste buds than with any of T&TÆs decadent dessert items. Making their debut at T&T are the chocolate quesadilla, made with a fresh, warm tortilla filled with creamy Nutella hazelnut spread and sliced bananas as well as T&TÆs flan, topped with a sweet caramel glaze. The chocolate quesadilla and flan join T&TÆs existing array of flavorful favorites including the tres leches cake, a sweet and moist Mexican treat and the banana empanada, a warm empanada, with caramel filling and sliced bananas. For those looking for something cool to satisfy their cravings, T&T also offers their traditional helado frito or fried ice cream, or a classic brownie sundae.

Rio Hosts San Gennaro Feast Sept. 13-18 San Gennaro Feast Is ‘A Love Affair With Little Italy’ – Featuring Celebrity Chefs and Restaurants, Lower Admission, Free Parking, More Rides Than Ever and The Zillerator Roller Coaster Along with Great Complimentary Entertainment.

WHAT: The 32nd Annual San Gennaro Feast will take place Sept. 13-18, 2011, at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino Las Vegas in the northeast parking lot. The festival celebrating the spirit of San Gennaro features more than 70 restaurant food booths, amusements rides, arts and crafts and complimentary entertainment coordinated and hosted by Tony Sacca, who has been part of the event for more than 20 years. Every night, hundreds of dollars of San Gennaro Chips will be given away for food purchases, amusement rides and more.

RÝ Rß Las Vegas Is Las VegasÆ Home For Barclays Premier League Action – RÝ Rß Las Vegas inside The Shoppes at Mandalay Place hosts Barclays Premier League viewing parties throughout the soccer season. Opening early for matches, fans are encouraged to enjoy food and drink specials while supporting their favorite teams.

PBR Rock Bar and Grill Will Serve As Place For Football Fans To Unite And Watch The Games – Football Buffs Can Catch All the Action on 105 HD-TVs, Beer Specials – It’s time for all die-hard football fanatics to dust off their pigskin gear to celebrate the end of the lock-out, and the start of a new and exciting football season at PBR Rock Bar & Grill.

PBR Rock Bar invites jersey-and-foam-finger-wearing patrons that bleed their team’s colors to watch the nail-biting, fall-off-your-seat, action from the restaurant and bar’s 105 HD-TVs.

Football aficionados can knock back a few cold ones with PBR Rock Bar’s beer bucket specials during every game. Each bucket will include five beers and offers guests the choice of Budweiser or Bud Light beer for $19, or buckets of imported beers for $24. Patrons can also enjoy Monday Night Football with Smirnoff vodka drinks for an unbeatable price of $5 each. Football devotees can also take home a special memory from Monday Night Football at PBR Rock Bar with 48-ounce football souvenir cups which will be sold for $20 for domestic drafts and can be refilled for $10. Souvenir cups can be filled with imported drafts and mixed drinks for an additional cost.

Shop for a Cause with Crystals at CityCenter in Celebration of ‘Fashion’s Night Out’ – Crystals at CityCenter, the Las Vegas Strip’s most exquisite shopping, dining and entertainment experience, is celebrating ‘Fashion’s Night Out’ Sept. 8 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. with one of the largest fashion events Las Vegas has seen. Throughout the evening, Crystals will offer unique in-store experiences, heart-pumping entertainment including a performance by Los Angeles-based soul group Fitz and the Tantrums and delicious restaurant tastings.

This year marks the first time an entire Las Vegas shopping destination will join to celebrate ‘Fashion’s Night Out’ through multiple partnerships with local charitable organizations. ‘Fashion’s Night Out’ is a global initiative created in 2009 to put the fun back into fashion through exciting events and partnerships.

“Crystals’ celebration of ‘Fashion’s Night Out’ will create an unparalleled opportunity for Las Vegas locals and visitors to support a wide array of charitable causes in one night,” said Farid Matraki, vice president and general manager of Crystals at CityCenter. “We are elated to join worldwide fashion capitals in this celebration of fashion with an incredible lineup of boutiques and entertainment that could only be offered by Crystals.”

Primm Valley Casino Resorts Completes Extensive Hotel and Casino Rejuvenations Resulting in Fresh New Look for Property – Primm Valley Casino Resorts has completed its $8.5 million property rejuvenation project that offers a fresh atmosphere for guests to enjoy alongside a plethora of amenities.

Renovations began in Fall 2010 with updates at Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino. The hotel rooms received new furnishings that gave the western themed space a modern edge. The property also added new carpeting to its casino floor and a recognizable Denny’s restaurant to the dining options. In an effort to become an eco-friendly property, energy-saving LED light bulbs replaced old lighting throughout the casino and light sensors were added to guest rooms to avoid excessive use of electricity.

Primm Valley Resort & Casino took on a $7 million renovation project transforming the hotel into a premium boutique escape. Primm Valley’s 624 hotel rooms underwent major changes that gave each a makeover to reflect its acquired boutique style. Contemporary furniture replaced the existing including new beds with leather upholstered headboards and chic linens as well as complimenting bedside tables. New fixtures and decorations were added to accent the deep red textured walls, rounding out the room’s exquisite design.

Football Frenzy Returns To Cabo Wabo – Saturday, Sunday and Monday Specials All Season Long – Cabo Wabo Cantina will provide all the rumblin’, bumblin’, stumblin’ action this football season, with a rousing roster of events taking place Saturdays, Sundays and Monday nights. Sammy Hagar’s rockin’ cantina will prove to be the best bet on the Strip with multiple high-definition televisions, amazing drink specials, a delicious breakfast menu and outstanding giveaways all season long.

Hoover Dam Express Bus TourHoover Dam Express Bus Tour û Considered one of the greatest engineering feats in the world, Hoover Dam is Nevada’s number one sightseeing attraction, the tallest structure of its kind in the world, and one of America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders. Travel to the Hoover Dam in style and comfort aboard safe, modern and clean touring buses. Your talented driver/guide will be more than happy to share points of interest and answer all your questions along the way. You’ll experience breathtaking views of Hoover Dam, the Colorado River and Lake Mead. Take pictures from the visitors center overlook and view the exhibits.

Click To Book Hoover Dam Express Bus Tour Now!

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

  • Lady Gaga, Steven Tyler Join ‘Legends in Concert’ in Las Vegas – ‘Legends in Concert‘ is the longest-running celebrity tribute show on the Las Vegas Strip. The show recently added Lady Gaga (played by Kate Steele) and Steven Tyler (Chris VanDahl) to its line-up. Here’s a sample of the spot-on live performances that have made ‘Legends’ such a legend in Las Vegas.

    Tickets for Legends in Concert

  • Skating Aratas take ‘Absinthe’ audiences for a spin – It’s exhilarating — and frightening — how fast she’s spinning through the air, like a Tilt-A-Whirl on some hallucinogenic drug. Her feet are locked behind her husband’s neck; his arms are up, in a ‘V’, his deltoids trapping her ankles, preventing her from flying into the audience like a carless crash test dummy. One misstep — a failed skate, a weakened grip, debris on the table — would be devastating. Read More…
  • George Wallace – George Wallace has been a fixture on the Las Vegas Strip for more than seven years. HeÆs been called the ‘Godfather of Comedy’, ‘The New Mr. Las Vegas’, and his show is hailed by many as the ‘Best 10 PM show’ on the strip. You can find this funny man thinkin’ and performing Tuesday through Saturday night at Flamingo Hotel and Casino. We recently spent some time getting to know the man behind the show.
  • Cocktail Culture: Swedish Fish – Watch bartender Hilary Clevenger get her sweet on with Sugar Factory’s Swedish Fish, created by Ken Hall. Sugar Factory Las Vegas is far more than a place to buy lolipops!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Members Mania will return when Ted returns next week. In the meantime, remember you can post comments to many of our stories by looking for the comment box below the story.

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 August 24, 2011

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

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – What has otherwise been a wimpy summer (no stretches of 112-115 F heat) is trying to go out with a temper tantrum. We’re in a midst of 110 degree days at a time when we should be barely cracking 100. Normally by this time of year, I’m ready to see the heat go, but as someone who enjoys spending evenings* outdoors (dining and watching TV if I’m not headed out), I’m lamenting that we only have a few more weeks left of palatable evening temperatures.

September brings a significant drop in the daytime high, coming in at 99áand exiting at 88áby the end of the month. We see another 10 degree drop during October and come November, we are well into jacket weather.

* Summertime temps at traditional dinnertime are still above 100. I modify my summer work schedule to knock off around midnight at which time we’re down around 90F. The best way to deal with summer here (schedule permitting) is to be an early riser enjoying the lowest temps of the day around sunrise, or shift your schedule so that “after work” is after midnight. Which in a 24/7 city works just fine regardless of your choice.

Rock ‘N’ Roll All Night, Drink Coffee Every Day? – The success of a KISS (the band) themed coffee shop (read: Starbucks) in Myrtle Beach, SC has led to the announcement of a pending location in Las Vegas. Look… I know KISS has millions of loyal fans. I’m not a KISS-aholic, but I’ve enjoyed their music for decades. I also like coffee. But am I going to go out of my way to have it at a KISS-themed shop? No. They may want to re-think this one, or get a liquor license. Vegas is fueled by booze. You can only sell somebody so many $5 coffees during a single day, but you can sell them quite a few drinks.

Jubilee’s 30’th Anniversary, No Tats Or Implants – Jubilee at Bally’s recently celebrated 30 years in business, and they are still sinking the Titanic nightly. This is pretty much your only chance to see traditional (sans-tops) Las Vegas showgirls in a big production.

Interesting tidbit I found reading all the various stories about the anniversary: Jubilee dancers can’t have body art (ink) or breast implants. They feel the ink draws attention away from the spectacular showgirl costumes, and that implants are simply too easy to spot and thus also distracting from the show in general. (This could also be a move to distinguish their dancers from what you’ll see at local “gentleman’s clubs”). In other words, Jubilee won’t be recruiting for dancers at the Hard Rock’s infamous Rehab pool party…

Bouncing Back – A recent local article highlighted how locals are wondering when things will bounce back to normal for Las Vegas. That really depends. If you consider 1999 or 2003 as “normal” then I’d say we have another 2-3 years to go. Analysts are suggesting that home prices (which are currently at 1999 levels) won’t begin to start increasing until at least 2013 and I agree.

If you consider 2006 to be normal, we’ll get back to that economic level locally right about the time it snows on the Las Vegas Strip in July. Another article noted that it will take a decade for housing here to regain 1/2 of the value it had at the top of the bubble. Somehow, that implies that it will eventually get back to 2006 levels. Highly unlikely that will ever happen in real dollars. It was a boom. A huge abnormality.

The good news? If you are a visitor, none of this matters to you. For years, outside (the area) journalists have lumped the local housing woes in with visitor woes. Visitor volume is resuming nicely and is completely unaffected by the significant percentage of Las Vegas homes are are “under water” (financially) or in foreclosure. If you live here and are making a go of it, congratulations. If you can keep your head above water (or better) right now, you’ll do extremely well as the Las Vegas economy bounces back.

Welcome Back, Jerry Lewis? – After being unceremoniously dumped from (what was to be) his last year on the MDA Labor Day telethon, Lewis has been reinstated as host. Or so it was reported. Now no one seems to know. Nonetheless, the abbreviated telethon show (6 hours) will air from the South Point hotel in Las Vegas on Sept. 4 at 6 PM Eastern time. Many Las Vegas performers including Celine Dion are scheduled to appear. In the past, admission to view the live show has been free, but expect lines and a wait while the audience churns during the six hours.

We Want Your Water – Slowly but surely, a buzz is picking up regarding pumping Mississippi River water west. It is a complete win-win. More and more people are moving to the west. Where we have water supplies that can’t sustain the unlimited growth, the Mississippi frequently has far more water than it can handle, flooding out substantial areas and even entire towns and cities. Could it be done? Certainly. Right now, a pipeline is under consideration to pump oil from Canada to Texas. Currently, water from the Colorado River is pumped 200-250 miles for use in Southern California.

Would the path be easy? Not at all. With the U.S. government broke, a special taxing district involving the tens of millions affected on both ends of the spectrum would have to be put in place. Worth it? I’d vote for it. We need the water, you along the Mississippi need to stop getting flooded.

“The Train To Nowhere” Update – The Desert Xpress high-speed train from Las Vegas to Victorville, CA has gotten though the environmental impact stage and is about to go into the engineering stages. Proponents are continuing to claim that this will create more than 32,000 jobs in our area.

These people are a high as a kite. At this point, a Victorville to Los Angeles connection may never materialize as it was depending on federal funding. As it was, the journey would require a connection in both Victorville and Palmdale. If you spend time on the ground during two connections, you’re probably going to completely negate the time saved by the high-speed nature of the rail. If a Victorville to Southern California link is never built, how many people are going to drive all the way to Victorville to catch a train the rest of the way? By the time you’ve hit Victorville, you are over Cajon Pass and already 1/4 of the way here!

In related news, no new word on the Las Vegas to Los Angles XTrain which would make the trip in 5 1/2 hours using existing rails and offer a party atmosphere (large seating, two lounge cars, TV) during the journey. I imagine they are waiting until this Desert Xpress idea finally falls flat on its face before they run with the ball.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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!

Comme Ãa To Feature Outdoor French Barbecue On Labor Day Weekend – Comme Ãa, the new modern French brasserie by acclaimed chef David Myers at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, will celebrate Labor Day with a special prix fixe barbecue menu on Sunday, Sept. 4.

‘The Feast’ will be offered from 4 until 10 p.m. on the restaurant’s spectacular patio. Patrons can enjoy the breathtaking view of the iconic Las Vegas Strip as they indulge in the mouthwatering, grillade selections created by Chef Myers and Executive Chef, Brian Howard, priced at $49 per person.

Cabo Wabo Introduces Delicious New Breakfast Items – Wake Up on the Right Side of the Cantina – Sammy Hagar’s Las Vegas cantina unveils new morning items to go along with their already flavorful spread. The new Cabo Wabo Cantina breakfast menu features everything from traditional eggs to exciting in-house specialties.

Hagar’s rockin’ cantina is known for its killer margaritas and tasty Mexican fare, but the bar has certainly been lifted with the addition of their flavorful new breakfast menu. Guests will start the day off right with their choice of several Mexican inspired dishes served from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. Morning classics such as three buttermilk pancakes or two eggs any style served with a choice of bacon or sausage and breakfast potatoes will satisfy any early morning craving.

Rockhouse Goes College Crazy For The Kick Off Of NCAA Football – Dust off your jerseys and foam fingers because Rockhouse Bar & Nightclub is gearing up for some NCAA fun Labor Day Weekend.

The Strip’s only ultra-dive bar is giving college football fans just what they need opening weekend; booze and beer pong. Revelers can root on their favorite team on any of Rockhouse 27 high definition TVs throughout the bar, while they enjoy two-for-one beers, cocktail and shots during any NCAA game. Party-goers can close out their Labor Day Weekend in true college form as they partake in Rockhouse’s staple beer pong tournament Sunday night, where the champion team will take home the $500 grand prize.

Day or night, it’s always the right time to party at Rockhouse. Whether people watching on the rowdy Strip-side patio by day, or dancing on the bar with an 80-ounce guitar by night, the ultra-dive bar is one of Vegas‘ best-kept secrets. Rockhouse gives partygoers the ultimate nightlife experience û minus the ‘VIP’ attitude. With a knockout lineup of gorgeous bartenders, bottle service that won’t break the bank, a daiquiri bar and casual dress code, Rockhouse is definite must-visit hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

Tacos and Tequila Participates In Restaurant Week To Benefit Three Square Food Bank – Las Vegas Restaurant Week is back, with not just one, but two weeks of culinary creations from Aug. 29 û Sept. 11, and Tacos & Tequila has developed a delectable menu to help benefit Three Square Food Bank. The menu provides guests with two different dining options, the first, which is only available at lunch, is priced at only $20.11 and features three courses. Guests can start with the appetizer course and choose from T&T’s homemade guacamole, a chopped or Caesar salad or tortilla soup.

Las Vegas Legends Delivers More Than History – In an all-encompassing breadth similar to his previous books in the Legends series, traveler and author Greg Niemann is proud to announce the September 2011 release of his newest book Las Vegas Legends: What Happened in Vegasà

This fall, readers have a chance to discuss the explosive content of the book with the author first hand, as Greg Niemann visits a variety of Las Vegas locations to promote his work. His upcoming Sin City itinerary includes:

Saturday, September 17, 12 pm, Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park (Discussion & Signing)
Sunday, September 18, 1-4 pm, Barnes & Noble, Northwest Las Vegas (Signing)
Sunday, September 18, 7 pm, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park (Lecture to Docents)
Monday, September 19, 2 pm, Gambler’s Book Club (Signing & Podcast)
Tuesday, September 20, 6 pm, North Las Vegas Kiwanis (Meeting Speaker)
Saturday, October 1, 12-2 pm, Book Boutique (Signing)

Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas Unveils 35 Steaks and Martinis – The premier entertainment destination presents a traditional steakhouse concept with a Hard Rock edge, beginning September 2 – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is synonymous for bringing life to the saying, “party like a rock star,” with its rock and roll entertainment, famous poolside and nightlife parties, exquisite restaurants and luxurious hotel accommodations, all under one roof since its inception in 1995. Continuing to transform the legendary Sin City experience, the off-strip property introduces its newest culinary destination, 35 Steaks + Martinis, beginning Monday, September 2.

MGM Grand Las Vegas Receives Most 2011 Wine Spectator Restaurant Wine List Awards In Country For Second Consecutive Year – MGM Grand continues to be the industry leader for another year as Wine Spectator confirms an extraordinary number of wins for the hotel during the 2011 Wine Spectator Restaurant Wine List Awards. For the second consecutive year, an incredible 11 MGM Grand restaurants including JoÙl Robuchon Restaurant, L’Atelier de JoÙl Robuchon, Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak, Nobhill Tavern by Michael Mina, Seablue by Michael Mina, Pearl, Shibuya, and Fiamma Trattoria & Bar, Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House, Wolfgang Puck’s Bar & Grill, and Diego garnered awards, more than any other property in the world.

Help out by dining out! This year Las Vegas Restaurant Week is a two week celebration of fine dining in celebration of the 5th Anniversary, kicking off on August 29th and ending September 11th – Las Vegas Restaurant Week – Help out by dining out! This year Las Vegas Restaurant Week is a two week celebration of fine dining in celebration of the 5th Anniversary, kicking off on August 29th and ending September 11th.áDuring Restaurant Week you can enjoy an exclusive three-course menu for $20.11, $30.11 or $50.11, with a portion of each meal donated to Three Square Food Bank.

Wynn and Encore in Las Vegas Restaurant Week Specials – Wynn Las Vegas and Encore will take part in the fifth annual Las Vegas Restaurant Week to benefit Three Square, a non-profit organization that works to combat hunger in Southern Nevada.

WHO: Participating restaurants include:
À La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas
À Lakeside at Wynn Las Vegas
À Stratta at Wynn Las Vegas
À Society CafÚ at Encore

MGM Las Vegas Hotels Participates In Las Vegas Restaurant Week Aug. 29 û Sept. 11 – Get ready to feast like a king as Las Vegas Restaurant Week 2011 kicks off Aug. 29 û Sept. 11 at select MGM Resorts International restaurants. For the fifth consecutive year, the finest restaurants, celebrity chefs and Master Sommeliers will come together to support Three Square, a non-profit organization working to end hunger in Southern Nevada.

Skywalk Odyssey Grand Canyon TourSkywalk Odyssey Grand Canyon Tour û Your direct helicopter flight to the Grand Canyon Skywalk departs from the Las Vegas Strip. Experience a bird’s eye view of the Grand Canyon, Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam and the Las Vegas Strip on your flight. Upon landing at the Grand Canyon, get ready to witness a true engineering marvel, The Grand Canyon Skywalk.

Click To Book Skywalk Odyssey
Grand Canyon Tour áNow!

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My husband and I will be visiting Las Vegas in September and are looking for a restaurant recommendation. We are not opposed to paying a little more for a good dining experience. Heard the steak house at Harrah’s is good, but too noisy. Also heard the Stratosphere is not as good as it used to be, but don’t know if this is true.

Thought of trying the steak house at New York New York, but it doesn’t seem to have a view of the strip. Any advice on an excellent steak house or other fine restaurant with a view of the strip and quiet atmosphere would be greatly appreciated.

We always look forward to reading your news letter and hope you can guide us to a good restaurant.

Denny and Arlene from Pennsylvania

 

Ted Responds:

Voodoo Steakhouse at the top of the Rio offers an amazing view of The Strip in a subdued setting.áThere is also nightclub called Voodoo, but it not on the same floor as the restaurant. Two different experiences. (Menu)

Alize at the top of The Palms is also a complete winner with both food and view. (Menu)

I’ve heard that Stratosphere (Top Of The World Restaurant) has hired a new executive chef and are trying to get their act together, but too many years of relying on the view (and not the food or service) leaves me leery to suggest it. I’ll probably get up there this winter to see if it has improved.

Mon Ami Gabi (Menu) can seat you outdoors literally ON the Las Vegas Strip with a view of the Bellagio Fountains or you can really splurge on the Eiffel Tower Restaurant (Menu), both at Paris Las Vegas.

Make sure to let us know how things went!

In your recent newsletter you discussed statistics regarding people moving to Vegas whereby school enrollment and employment are not going up accordingly. I think the difference now is all the retired Canadians buying condos and small houses in your area. Our friends have purchased everything from a Soho loft with a gorgeous view of the Stratosphere and other friends bought small ranchers in the Green Valley area close to the airport. We are considering Henderson.

Of course there are no children and none of us need jobs due to our retirement funds just going into our bank accounts. We can live down there half the year, pay for utilities half the year, and get away from our cold winters cheaper now than traveling in “snowbird” rv’s due to the housing “deals” in Nevada. Hopefully we will help your economy by spending it in your wonderful friendly city that we have been visiting since the early 80’s at least 3 times a year!

Ardie Lush

 

Ted Responds:

The powers that promote Las Vegas have been woefully behind in targeting retirees like yourself who create very little burden on our local systems (no kids in school, you have health care coverage so not a drag on the county hospital) and I’m scratching my head why. We offer sunshine, better weather than many parts of North America, and unlimited entertainment. We’re happy to have you!

The only downside is that your property won’t appreciate for a few years. But, homes/condos are so cheap that even if you use it just a few weeks here and there, you are getting your money’s worth. Buy a solid but inexpensive car (Nevada’s car tax is based on value) to keep down here and all you have to do is hop an airplane ride to Las Vegas and you’re still right at home.

I’m a Tour Director who regularly visits Las Vegas. Your newsletter helps me keep current on politics, construction, new development, what’s hot and what’s not and just things I need to point out to my passengers.

Thanks for helping me to do my job better.

John Schueler

 

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 August 17, 2011

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

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – Big news about a major new project in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, and the weather is unchanging (around 105 F for the high, and lows in the mid-80’s F). So, let’s move along.

Las Vegas “Linqing” Up Hotels With New Shops, Dining (Say Goodbye, Imperial Palace) – Like the Imperial Palace? Bummer for you. No, they are not blowing it up. But it will get a completely new look, new casino area, new name, and open it up to create a passage between Carnival Court and Linq.

project linq las vegas

OÆSheas is going bye-bye. Kind-of. The present OÆSheas location will be turned into part of Project Linq (which we assume means more Strip-front dining and roof-top nightlife which has become so popular). OÆSheas itself will be integrated into the ônewö Imperial Palace (which has no announced name yet).

las vegas high roller ferris wheel

Curious to know more and to add your comments and thoughts about this huge new project? Click over to Las Vegas “Linqing” Up Hotels With New Shops, Dining (Say Goodbye, Imperial Palace) where you can read the complete story and add your comments at the bottom of that page.

Ring Around The Rosie, We All Fall Down – The Harmon Hotel (the unfinished billboard hotel next to The Cosmopolitan) looks like it is going to end up in a cloud of dust. Construction defects apparently prohibit building it out to the original height and Las Vegas needs more hotel rooms like I need more In-And-Out Burgers. (I live just a few blocks from an In-And-Out — love it, but you can only eat so many of them a month). An implosion date has not yet been set as MGM Resorts and the hotel builder are still doing some fighting.

160 New Cops On The Strip? – We usually don’t break the news. I’m not an investigative reporter. However, I overhead a Metro (Las Vegas police) officer last weekend telling a couple of civilians (who seemed like possible recruits for the force) that the department in cooperation with Strip properties were hiring an extra 160 officers to beef up their presence in the tourist corridor. (Note: Both on The Strip and downtown, police now have a very pronounced presence in the wake of a few killings and all the complaints about street vendors, panhandlers, and similar).

Are the hotels helping fund this? Is it more effective for them to fund fully sworn law officers instead of hiring more of their private security? Are there any conflicts of interest (if the officers are essentially being funded by a private company)? I know we have plenty of local journalists reading this. Have at, should make a great story!

Viva Less Elvis – Cirque du Soleil completely revamping Viva Elvis (at Aria) due to less-than-desired ticket sales. It will downplay Elvis and focus on traditional Cirque (acrobats and the like). Interestingly enough, we’ve gotten tons of great feedback (and no negative reports) on Viva Elvis. Could it be that the problem is the location (seemingly way back from The Strip in Aria) and not the show itself? Time will tell.

The Churn Continues – During the boom, the big number constantly floated around was that 5000 new people were moving to Las Vegas each month. We joked around that the dirty little secret was that 20-30% of them eventually turned around and left when they found out that there wasn’t a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Interesting recent statistics show an even more remarkable churn. Roughly 5000 people are still moving here each month. But power company new service requests and school district enrollment are both flat. Which means we’re seeing 5000 people a month come while another 5000 give up and leave.

How can this be? As construction jobs continue to dry up, those in that trade are forced to walk away from homes (that they are underwater with and perhaps can’t afford on unemployment) to go seek work in other parts of the country. They are being replaced as residents by retirees (and those close to retirement) plus a pretty healthy dose of entrepreneurs who can work from anywhere. Both groups obviously not necessarily dependent on the local Las Vegas economy. Although Project Linq will be providing 3000 construction jobs, that is minuscule when you look at Nevada’s current unemployment rate in that field.

NASCAR Cafe Sell-Off – So much for earlier news that the NASCAR Cafe (formerly in The Sahara) will be relocated. They are pulling a “Sahara” and selling off everything.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Mask Yourself! Phantom û The Las Vegas Spectacular Invites Fans To Try On The Iconic Mask – Virtually – Application on Facebook Encourages Fans to Celebrate 5 Years in Las Vegas – If you’ve always wanted to don one of the world’s most iconic masks, a new application on Facebook now gives you the chance. After thousands of performances over five years, Phantom û The Las Vegas Spectacular is celebrating by giving fans the opportunity to show the world just how much they love the music of the night with the Phantom Mask Maker application.

The Mirage’s Newest Dolphin Calf Named – A moment to last a lifetime. We all have memories we will never forget, and MGM Resorts International is providing guests the chance to live some of those special life moments at their 15 participating properties through M life, their new loyalty program. One such moment arose recently when an M life member had the unprecedented opportunity to name the bottlenose dolphin calf born July 3 at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage.

‘Name That Tune’ marks its return with live game show at Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas – Las Vegas favorites, Chris Phillips and Marley Taylor of Zowie Bowie, to host live version of the classic game show. – ‘Name That Tune,’ one of America’s most beloved game shows of all time, makes its live debut at Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, beginning Thursday, August 18. An up-to-date, fast-paced version of the iconic daytime game show, Name That Tune Live! will give 100 participants per show the chance to win thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. Photo Credit: Ira Kuzma/Vegas Video Network

The Spa at Trump Introduces the New Mom Package For Post-Partum Pampering – From pregnancy to labor to tending to a newborn’s needs, the first days of motherhood are as exhausting as they are unforgettable. In honor of new mothers everywhere (including TRUMP HOTEL COLLECTION’s own Ivanka Trump), The Spa at Trump has created a New Mom Package that offers a few hours of well-deserved ‘me time’ and post-baby rejuvenation. The package is available exclusively at The Spa at Trump’s four locations across the U.S.: Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk and Trump SoHo New York.

The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas BOTH Awarded Coveted AAA Five Diamond Ratings – The resorts celebrate the prestigious recognition with ‘Five Day, Five Diamond Scavenger Hunt’ – The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas, two of the world’s largest and most luxurious resorts, both owned and operated by global resort developer Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS), are pleased to once again add to their distinguished roster of accolades the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for 2012. This marks the fifth consecutive year The Venetian has been awarded with this esteemed honor and third consecutive year for The Palazzo.

To celebrate, the resorts are hosting a ‘Five Day, Five Diamond Scavenger Hunt’ from Aug. 22 û 26. Visitors and guests will have the opportunity to win exclusive prizes by finding the day’s diamond hidden somewhere different each day throughout both Five Diamond resorts.

Hoover Dam Deluxe Bus TourHoover Dam Deluxe Bus Tour û Considered one of the greatest engineering feats in the world, Hoover Dam is Nevada’s number one sightseeing attraction, the tallest structure of its kind in the world, and one of America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders. Travel to the Hoover Dam in style and comfort aboard safe, modern and clean touring buses. Your talented driver/guide will be more than happy to share points of interest and answer all your questions along the way. You’ll experience breathtaking views of Hoover Dam, the Colorado River and Lake Mead.

Click To Book Hoover Dam Deluxe Bus Tour áNow!

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

  • Las Vegas Mob Experience Preview Clips – The Las Vegas Mob Experience, interactive attraction chronicles the rise and fall of organized crime in Las Vegas. Actors Frank Vincent, James Caan, Mickey Rourke, Steve Shirippa and Tony Sirrico in the form of apparitions, also serve as virtual ‘celebrity gangster guides.’
  • Vic Vegas Talks About His Food Network Experience, Sommelier’s Aren’t Scary People – In this episode of Top of the Food Chain: If you’ve watched Food Network Star, you know who Vic Vegas is. Hear him talk about his experiences. Then, find out there is no need to be intimidated by a restaurant’s sommelier from Linsey Whipple of Cut restaurant.
  • Getting REAL (Estate) In Vegas – Quite a few of you are poking around the Las Vegas real estate market. In this episode, you’ll find out: What will $135k (the current average home price in Las Vegas) buy me in the suburb of Henderson? What are the best (and not so good) ways to work with an out-of-town Realtor?
  • The Gun Store – If you’ve ever seen a gun in a movie and wondered what it might be like to fire a few rounds, we have the place for you. The Gun Store on Tropicana has pretty much any weapon you’ve seen, on their shelves.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I like a great burger on our last trip we found Nathan’s in belly of the Bally’s Hotel . We stay at Paris and to find Nathan’s was a good find. A great find only bad thing it was it was on our last day there.

Can you tell me where to get a great burger in Vegas . We go a couple of times a year and have been going for 20 years now and will continue.

Also your site is great and very helpful even to me one who knows pretty much on what to do in Vegas.

Thanks,

Rob

 

Ted Responds:

You can’t go wrong with Strip Burger in front of the Fashion Show Mall (across from Wynn). Great burgers, outdoors with a great view of The Strip. BLT at Mirage serves great tiger burgers has everything from Kobe Sliders to Colorado Lamb. Very creative menu. For the best basic burger in the world (my opinion), you can’t beat In-And-Out with two locations very close to The Strip on West Sahara and West Tropicana. Burger Bar at Mandalay Place is Chef Hubert Keller’s take on the burger and has yet to disappoint me. I have yet to try Holsteins at Cosmo but we’re getting great feedback. There are so many more (I Heart Burgers, Le Burger Brasserie) plus many other dining establishments tend to do up a nice burger.

Let’s get the readers chiming in. Which burger are your favorite(s) in Las Vegas? Where have you been disappointed? Click on over to Where To Get A Great Burger In Las Vegas and leave your thoughts in the comment section!

Hi, I am really sad to write this as I have been vacationing every year in Vegas since the 70’s. First with my husband and then with my brothers and sister. 20ll is the first year we have not attended. Here is the reason. We were so disappointed when we found out that the casinos were shipping their employees on buses to vote. We could not believe that they would vote for Harry Reid, which is a vote for Obama who bashed Las Vegas and caused many cancellations and who is ruining this country. Just see how many people will be able to afford Las Vegas with this government.

I live in Florida, my brothers live in Indiana and my sister lives in Alabama. This year we stayed at my sister’s home in Alabama and spent our time and money in Biloxi, Ms. and had a wonderful time.

We will miss Las Vegas some, but we won’t miss your politics.

Thanks for listening,

Mary Anne

 

Ted Responds:

First, I’d suggest you read the Politics section of my blog post So You Want To Move To Las Vegas, Is It Right For You? and you’ll find out that Nevada isn’t exactly a state that bleeds blue. You might be surprised.

Gaming (and not just here in Las Vegas but all áover the US including areas you mentioned) gave significant support to Harry Reid (D-NV, US Senate Majority Leader) because they felt that the power he has would protect the industry from federal regulation and legislation that might not be gaming-friendly. His opponent Sharon Angle has never been a gaming proponent.

I’ve expounded on this and listed (among the major gaming properties) how each CEO stands politically in a blog post. Click on over to Why Did All The Las Vegas Hotels Support Harry Reid Last Election? where you can read more and add your own comments and thoughts.

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

Las Vegas Tours

Soar into the sky with Maverick Airlines - Click Here For More Details

Canyon Dream - Airplane, Helicopter and on Foot Grand Canyon Tour - Click Here

Las Vegas Gambling Tips

Gambling

Visit World Famous Gaming Writer Victor H. Royer’s
Casino Gambling Articles