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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 25, 2005

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In This Issue: $1.1 Million Wheel of Fortune Jackpot, Wynn Backlash, Las Vegas Meal Deals, Playboy Store Opens, America’s Sexiest Pool Party, Peter Max Gallery Appearance, more ….
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Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

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California Woman Hits Wheel of Fortune Jackpot for $1.1 Million At Sam’s Town – Betty Cagle of Pioneer, Calif., didn’t need to buy a vowel to spell J-A-C-K-P-O-T. Cagle, 66, had been sitting at the 25-cent Wheel of Fortune machine at Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall for five minutes when she hit a progressive jackpot for $1.1 million on Monday night. Cagle had played just $20 when she hit the jackpot. She said her plans are to pay off her house and take a long-dreamed-of trip to Alaska.

Hot New Concerts – We’ve added a ton of concerts to the concert listings. See who is playing during your stay, or look for an excuse to book at trip! Check the sidebar for concert and headliner listings.

Wynn Backlash? – Possibly the biggest media rumble in the modern megaresort era have been quick to point out the problems with Wynn Las Vegas and the Le Reve show. Mr. Wynn had to really stick his neck out on this one to get the enormous financing needed, and people love to cut down what stands tallest. Resorts take 30-90 days to “shake down” after opening. Will things improve? We’ve collected stories from the press so you can decide for yourself.

Wynn Las Vegas Photos: Part Two – Photographer Tom took 50+ great photos of the new resort. We’ll run them in one week. Stay tuned!

Las Vegas Meal Deals – Back by popular demand for the first time in over a year: Our world famous listing of all the great meal and drink specials in Las Vegas! Click to our Las Vegas Cheap Food Deals and Specials page.

Playboy Opens First U.S. Based Boutique At Forum Shops – Playboy Enterprises, Inc. has opened its first freestanding Playboy Concept Boutique in the United States at The Forum Shops at Caesars in Las Vegas. The 2,000 square-foot upscale shopping destination offers a collection of Playboy apparel, accessories and lingerie.

The Las Vegas location also will offer one-of-a-kind Playboy memorabilia items, select artwork, and vintage product from Playboy’s vast archives. The Las Vegas store will be used as a template for Playboy’s future stores, as well as retail concessions and lingerie areas. Other design details that enable shoppers to immerse themselves in the Playboy lifestyle include a plasma-screen video wall featuring archival and contemporary footage and a customized pebble cash-point countertop inspired by rocks from the famed Playboy Mansion Grotto.

Evoking the sexiness of the Playboy brand a stand-alone lingerie area sells Playboy’s playful “Pink Label” and will house Playboy’s sophisticated “White Label” lingerie collections, showcased on the mirrored tile walls and complimented with satin quilted upper walls, mixing glam with softness. The memorabilia area of the boutique offers one-of-a-kind artifacts for sale from Playboy archives and Hugh Hefner’s personal memorabilia collection, including his pipe and slippers, vintage Bunny Costumes, and paintings and sketches from Alberto Vargas and LeRoy Neiman, respectively all showcased in museum-style cases.

Click To View: Photos from Playboy Store Grand Opening

Nirvana: America’s Sexiest Pool Party – at Green Valley Ranch this Sunday May 29! Hosted by Lizzie Grubman and the MTV Power Girls. Noon to 10 PM featuring Bad Boy Bill, DJ Rap, Steve Smooth, Ivano Bellini, Richie Malone, DJ Dakota, and Miss Joy Nirvana. Click for Info: America’s Sexiest Pool Party

Meet Famed Artist Peter Max at the Peter Max Gallery May 28 & 29 – Artist Peter Max will visit The Art of Peter Max Gallery at the Forum Shops at Caesars. Fans will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with Max as he personally dedicates his paintings for collectors on Saturday, May 28 from 7-10 p.m. and Sunday, May 29 from 1-4 p.m.

Since the late 1960s, Peter Max’s work has been an artistic symbol of American pop culture. His images form a scrapbook illustrating 40 years of Americana. Max’s imagination and vision can be found on a variety of canvases, including the Berlin Wall and a Boeing 777 jumbo jet, currently in use by Continental Airlines.

Max has been designated Official Artist of numerous international events, including six Grammy Award broadcasts, three World Fairs and six Super Bowls. The Art of Peter Max Gallery’s collection of original paintings, available for acquisition, range in price from $1,200 to an eight foot tall “Liberty” for $150,000.

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All contents copyright 2005 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

May 25, 2005 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 24, 2001

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WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in 45 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

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

* Discount Las Vegas Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
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* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

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

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
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HOTEL SPECIAL – Harrah’s Las Vegas from $59.95 a night! This deluxe casino hotel is located in the heart of the strip across from Mirage and Caesar’s Palace. Some of the features include a state of the art fitness center with sauna, Olympic size pool, whirlpool and much more. This rate is subject to limited availability and is subject to change without notice. To view more information, Click Here: http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

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This Issue: Melinda – The First Lady of Magic

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


 

 

EDITORS NOTE: It has been a generally quiet week leading up to Superbowl weekend, although an entertainment convention and athletic gear convention (both closed to the public) have brought more star sightings then usual.

The word on the Superbowl is to bet the “under” (wagering that the combined scores of both teams will be under a certain number). With rain predicted all weekend, it will be a good time to be indoors watching the game. We have the updated list of hotel Superbowl parties linked this week.

Finally, we are proud to add CompuBank to our list of advertisers. FDIC insured, access 24/7, interest checking, and free online bill paying saves you time and money. Link toward the end of this issue.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

WHO, WHAT, WHERE – A couple of writers from the UCSD Guardian came up with a great, compact list of most of the major Las Vegas casinos and what each offers to do and see. Good one to print out before you next trip at http://news.excite.com/news/uw/010119/university-2

HOWARD STERN – will be taping his Monday morning show live at the Hard Rock casino following the SuperBowl (Sunday night). E! Entertainment television will also be shooting it for future use, and Hard Rock employees featured in the upcoming April issue of Playboy are expected to be on hand.

Howard has experssed a desire to place a $1 million bet on one hand of Blackjack, but with no takers so far. Where are (former Binion’s owner, now deceased) Benny Binion and (former Vegas World owner) Bob Stupak when we need them? Both of those men would take just about any bet at any time, especially when it brought that kind of publicity. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-18-Thu-2001/living/15200105.html

MGM MIRAGE – has postponed their plans to turn the Holiday Inn Boardwalk into a Generation-X casino. The original idea was to have a high tech hotel-casino to appeal to the newly “dot-com” rich and those who have grown up with new technology. Instead, the company will focus on an Atlantic City casino they are building. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-18-Thu-2001/business/15252865.html

WIND FARMS – This is a little off topic, but interesting given the power shortages plauging California: The Nevada Test Site, 65 miles north of town and once the home of nuclear bomb testing, is going to be the new home for the nation’s second largest electric producing wind farm. When completed in 4 years, it will generate enough juice to feed 160,000 homes. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-18-Thu-2001/business/15255966.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

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


 

 

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Folies Bergere – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-19-Fri-2001/weekly/15238357.html

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1

SuperBowl – More hotels have listed their SuperBowl parties. List at http://www.lasvegas.com/events/superbowl2001

SHOWS AND HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
CONCERT – listings available anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarentee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Golden Steer (near Sahara) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_01_18/dining_taste.html
* Olio! (MGM) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-24-Wed-2001/living/15256696.html

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

Thursday – 54/40 Mostly Cloudy
Friday – 53/34 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 54/34 Showers
Sunday – 57/34 Rain
Monday – 56/32 Scattered Showers

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FEATURE STORY: Melinda – The First Lady of Magic

Las Vegas has it all: exploding volcanos and pirate battles right on the street, German guys with white tigers, famous headliner entertainment, and now for the first time in some 5 years, the most-publicized female magician in the world.

I first saw Melinda play downtown at the Lady Luck almost 7 years ago. The room was packed, the price was right, and and it was a nice entertaining mix of basic magic and Vegas “show and dance”. Melinda has spend the past few years in locales ranging from Atlantic City to Branson and recently brought her show back to Las Vegas. She grew up here, and worked as a dancer in Siegfried and Roy along her way to showroom stardum.

Melinda’s 90 minute show is really the tale of two shows. The first part relies and reflects heavily on here older material, much of which she has been doing for years. Unfortunately, it comes off a little too cheesy and fluffy, with the dance numbers almost overshadowing the magic and not letting the crowd get into a dramatic mood needed to thrououghly enjoy the illusions. That is unfortunate because the magic, while standard magic show fare, is well done including levetation, mid-air vanishing, and reappearing in the back of the showroom.

About halfway through the show, we are given a change of pace with a 15 minute performance by 3 Argentinian’s who demonstrate talent and humor with traditional drum playing and bolo ball displays. One of the unfortunate aspects of an early show (this one started at 6:30 PM) is that the crowd isn’t in the late night party mood (i.e. 5 drinks into the night), but they really brought the crowd to life and it was a good warm-up for the bigger illusions.

The second half brought out the showstoppers. A full sized Lamborghini was suspended above stage and a number of audience volenteers were invited on stage to verify that it was a very real car. After the car was draped and reved to “200 miles an hour”, it simply vanished out of thin air. The other truly memorable illusion is her Drill of Death, where a huge drill screws through her body and lifts here high in the air.

Melinda has come a long way, both with her magic and now performing in the beautiful C2K showroom of the Venetian. There truly isn’t a bad seat in the house. If there is one drawback, the show is almost as much Britney Spears as it is spellbinding magic. Melinda could easily pass for the pop singer’s older sister, with her beauty, obvious devotion to fitness and dance, and bubbly personality . Unfortunatly, it is a thread doesn’t completely go away even during the most serious of illusions when we need to be biting our nails.

Overall, it is an enjoyable show combining magic flare with the dance numbers one expects out of a traditional Las Vegas show. Melinda is very personable, quick with wit and laughter, and interacts with the audience very well. The show leaves you with a nice, warm feeling. Although Melinda and her dancers wear some very “body conscious” outfits, the show contains no overt sexuality and is very suitible for children.

Melinda, First Lady of Magic plays every evening but Wednesdays. Show times vary by day of the week, but are in the early evening. Tickets run from $38 – $88, with childrens tickets (under 12) $22. Call ahead to the Venetian at (702) 414-1000 and ask for the box office to confirm times and prices. The show is selling pretty well, so reservations are suggested.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Janene Bahr of Moorestown, NJ wrote:

>Hello hello from cold and rainy New Jersey!!
>
>I must reply in reference to this issue’s feature story on De La
>Guarda.á My best friend Jen and I were in Vegas last month for our
>bi-annual trip.á We were indecisive as to which show we were going to
>see, and which show was even available at the time.á We just happened
>to be in the Rio feasting at their fantastic buffet, when we noticed
>all the signs for De La Guarda.á We went to check it out and bought
>tickets for that night on a whim.á We had no clue what to expect and
>we were totally in for a spectacular show!!á It was incredible.á The
>drama, the music, the skill of the actors was amazing.á It truly was
>like a roller coaster ride from start to finish.á We got rained on, we
>got hugged and we danced and jumped around and played with the
>balloons.á I really can’t say enough about the show.á On piece of
>advice: dress down.á Wear jeans because you will get wet if you choose
>to participate in the show.á Let loose and have a fantastic time!
>
>Thanks for the newsletter Ted!

Nita Vandermark wrote (about De La Guarda):

>Experienced it.á Save your $’s.á Standing for 90
>minutes with loud noises and eery, creepy wet people
>meandering through the crowd and pawing some of the
>attendees, or being grabbed by bungee jumpers and
>wisked up and away.á Not my idea of a LV “show”.

I printed both of the above letters to demonstrate the range of opinions regarding De La Guarda. It is not a typical Las Vegas show in any respect, but more of an experience. As we noted in last week’s review of the show (archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-01-17.htm ), “While not sexual in nature, it is primal and stretches your imagination. It is for the young or young at heart and requires an open mind.” Jubilee or Folies Bergere is more in order for someone interested in a typical Las Vegas show.

Sarah Swain wrote:

>Hello,
>
>Having visited Vegas twice, the last time being at Christmas, it is
>great to receive all the latest news about the place, if not a little
>depressing that I’m not there!
>
>While I was there I went to see David Copperfield at the MGM, on
>Christmas eve.á It was completely amazing.á Even more thrilling was
>the fact that I was picked from the audience to take part in the show!
>Don’t know if you’ve seen it, but he changed the color of my pants
>with another girl!!
>
>Being a Journalism student, here in England, I was wondering if I
>could write a review for the page, and add to it my experience.
>(though I can’t tell you how he did it as I had to sign a secrecy
>contract!) – or maybe you are going to review it?
>
>Viva Las Vegas!

As we note at the end of this section, guest article submissions are always welcome. It doesn’t hurt to ask ahead of time as this newsletter has a pretty narrow focus (we cover very little that isn’t on the Strip or downtown, and only review regular or recurring shows and events). While we don’t provide compensation at this time, we do give you full credit if used.

Cheryl Hopkins wrote:

>I came on holiday last June to Las Vegas and had a
>fantastic time. I stayed in Caesars Palace which was great
>we also saw Gladys Knight she was very good. We only
>stayed for five nights so we had to see as much as we could
>in that time, saw all the entertainment out side many of the
>hotels on the strip the best one being the fountains at the
>Bellagio.
>
>We are coming again for two weeks in September this year
>and i cant wait…

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

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


 

 

ONLINE POLL – What most influences which Las Vegas hotel you stay in? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last weeks poll “If money were no object, which high end show would you go see?”

O 31%
Siegfried and Roy 22%
Danny Gans 18%
Blue Man Group 14%
Mystere 13%

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Send a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

Race Rock – Gives away caps, t-shirts, etc. from the Race Rock restaurant each month. Enter at http://www.racerock.com/racerock/giveaway.html and reach our Race Rock review archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-09-06.htm

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

Please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

All contents copyright MMI Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
January 24, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 5, 2000

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Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it, but only in it’s entirety.

This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com Quality Las Vegas Tourist Information – Hotels, Casinos, Insider Tips, and more. If it’s about Las Vegas, it’s AccessVegas.Com!

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Coco Palms “All You Can Eatery”

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

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:BINION TRIAL VIDEO – We are following this closely with updated stories when they become available at http://www.accessvegas.com If you don’t have Court TV in your area and want to catch the proceedings as they happen, KLAS TV is streaming video of the trial online at http://www.klastv.com/spectre-pub/1-0/home.htm

SPRING TRAINING – Las Vegas continues to attempt to lure a number of Major League Baseball teams to move their spring training here. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-28-Tue-2000/sports/13258285.html Our online poll this week: “Would you plan an additional trip to Las Vegas each year to watch spring training games”? Vote at http://www.accessvegas.com

“NEW” SHOWS – 3 shows or performers which were absent for a little while are back! DANNY GANS has just started his run at The Mirage in a theatre specifically built for him. A recent story on the man and his past is detailed at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-31-Fri-2000/weekly/13257371.html THE RAT PACK has moved from the Desert Inn to The Sahara – story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-31-Fri-2000/weekly/13207378.html WAYNE NEWTON is a month into his long-term run at The Stardust. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-17-Fri-2000/weekly/13164070.html Tickets for WAYNE or THE RAT PACK can be reserved online at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

BELLAGIO CONSERVATORY – If you have been to town since the opening of Bellagio and have yet to see the conservatory, shame on you! I’m not even a flower fan but this is not to be missed. Great story and photos at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-02-Sun-2000/lifestyles/13217313.html

ART BELL – A big tip of the hat to the infamous late night talk show host upon his pending retirement. He took a late night shift at Las Vegas radio station KDWN and turned it into a nightly “strange-fest” on over 400 stations nationwide, broadcasting from Pahrump (60 miles west of town).

Fans of his might be interested in reading David Thompson’s IN NEVADA: The Land, the People, God and Chance. Besides talking about the crazies and conjecture surrounding Area 51, he details exploits of Howard Hughes, Bugsey Siegel, Hoover Dam, and more. 30% discount available from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0679454861/invegascom

SPEEDWAY CASINO – We found this new local’s casino to be a little bit of a letdown. Although nice and new with high ceilings and a racing theme, there wasn’t much in the way of memorabilia. They have the traditional Las Vegas food specials like 99 cent shrimp cocktail, $4.99 rib dinner and $5.99 16 oz. t-bone steak. The bar and grill area does feature a 10 foot TV screen on which they show every NASCAR race. Race days feature food and drink specials, cash drawings, and prizes. The verdict? Don’t go out of your way. The NASCAR Cafe (at the Sahara) and Race Rock (downtown) are much better. The Speedway Casino is located 5 minutes north of downtown at I-15 and Cheyenne.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

THE SUPREMES – will be ending their reunion tour here in Las Vegas. Tickets are not yet on sale but you can read more at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-05-Wed-2000/news/13296466.html

BOULDER STATION – BLUE OYSTER CULT on April 15’th, DIAMOND RIO on April 28’th, and TRACE ADKINS on May 5. Tickets at (800) 464-2468 and Boulder Station discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Boulder Station link).

HARD ROCK – THE CURE on May 27. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

MANDALAY BAY – LIT on April 9, THE REVEREND HORTON HEAT on April 12, BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY on April 14, JOE SATRIANI on April 16, TYPE O NEGATIVE with COAL CHAMBER on April 18, LYNYRD SKYNYRD on April 25, CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED on April 28, REO SPEEDWAGON, STYX and SURVIVOR on May 5, TOWER OF POWER on May 13, DAVID SANDBORN on MAY 19, BARRY MANILOW May 25 – May 28’th, JEFFERSON AIRPLANE on May 26, and RICKY MARTIN on July 22. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – BLINK 182 with BAD RELIGION on June 24. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

THE ORLEANS – RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS now through April 16. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Orleans link).

SUNSET STATION – DAVE MASON with LEON RUSSEL on April 22’nd, and 38 SPECIAL with EDGAR WINTER BAND on April 28’th. Tickets at (800) 464-2468 and Sunset Station discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Sunset Station link).

THE VENETIAN – ANDREW DICE CLAY on April 14’th and 15’th. Tickets available at (702) 414-2225 and Venetian discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Venetian link).

 

FEATURE STORY: Coco Palms “All You Can Eatery”When I moved to town, the Stardust buffet was called the Warehouse buffet. And it sure wasn’t (Mirage Resort Chairman) Steve Wynn’s warehouse they were getting their food from. While not one of the “Big 3” worst buffets (Circus Circus, Imperial Palace, and Holiday Inn Boardwalk), it wasn’t making anyone’s top 10.

My how times have changed! Now called the Coco Palms, the Stardust is the only buffet offering weekday champaign brunch 7 days a week. The food is fresh, service is attentive, and the champaign is free flowing. The music was a little loud for my tastes. (It usually is in buffets as they want to move you through and get you back to the gaming floor). The decor was reasonably subdued and pleasant for a Las Vegas buffet.

They full salad and pasta bar has something for everyone. Penne pasta with broccoli, egg flower or chicken noodle soup, sliced melons, strawberries and whip cream, shrimp, yogurt and more. Oh yes, and salad!

Breakfast lovers can grab a made-to-order omelet or the standard eggs, hash browns, and Portuguese sausage fare. Lunch specialties like Italian beef stew, baked catfish with peanut and bacon butter, pork chops ala orange, rotisserie chicken and chicken tetrazinni will suit the tastes of those having their second meal of the day. Asian selections like sweet and sour chicken, pepper steak, moo goo gal pan, and pork chow mien were also available.

If you have a sweet tooth, you won’t be left out! The dessert bar is quite the spread, containing an excellent selection of donuts, fresh cinnamon rolls and other assorted pastries as well as the standard ice cream. Hot and cold puddings were also available.

The Coco Palms brunch buffet is open from 7 AM to 3 PM every single day. At $9.50 it’s a pretty good value, and compares very favorably with with other weekend brunches in a similar price range. While not worth going way out of your way for, but if you are staying in that part of the Strip this beats the out of the buffets at Circus Circus, The Riviera, and The Sahara by a significant margin.

 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:Frank in NJ wrote:

>I love your newsletter.á But you need a proofreader.á I will proofread
>it for free if you email it to me ahead of time.

This is still very much a hobby for me, and I often have limited time to do it, which means barely getting it out late Thursday night after finding the latest info to include (which precludes the time needed by an outside proofreader) but thanks for the offer. I do print it out and proof it but I miss things and I do appreciate everyone’s patience at the couple of typos that seem to get by me every week.

I want to take a minute and thank everyone who is patronizing our sponsors! I’m seeing bookings for hotels and rental cars not just for Las Vegas but for all over the place, and a truckload of people have signed up to get paid to listen to internet radio. Let me tell you, with 200+ stations, that one is a no brainer!

The best part is that the newsletter is really gaining in subscribers and generating notice, which is why we can start reviewing higher end restaurants like Delmonico and shows like EFX in the very near future. I’m almost to the one year anniversary. I had no idea if anyone would subscribe or care, and I want to thank you all!

>Great work on the newsletter and many thanks for the reviews!á It is
>the only newsletter I subscribe to for Vegas highlights.
>
>Just about two weeks ago, I took a trip to Vegas to throw a birthday
>party for my mother.á She grew up near the ocean and absolutely loves
>seafood.á I was really excited about showing her a good time and
>letting her try the best Vegas has to offer.á However, I gotta confess
>that my selection, Piero’s, did not really hit the spot for her.
>Don’t get me wrong, the restaurant and staff were top notch.á I had
>the great porterhouse steak.á But I noticed that my mother was not
>truly enthusiastic about her dish.á So, please help me here!á She
>loves seafood and her absolute favorite is Alaskan King crab.á We used
>to go to the Bellagio seafood buffet but heard it has gone down in
>quality.á Now, we go to Makino’s which is decent but not great.
>
>What place in Vegas has the best seafood, especially Alaskan King
>crab, in Vegas?!

O.K. — I enjoy seafood but I’m crab legs expert. I’ve always enjoyed Bellagio Buffet (reviewed at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-12-15.htm ) and can’t say I’ve noticed a decline in quality, but we all look for different things. Readers, help us out: where do you like the crab legs? Send to allvegastv@aol.com

Robin Skeen wrote:

>Just got back from a stay at the Trop.á It’s pretty decent, clean
>rooms, good service.á I would stay there again.á If you get the
>chance, go see the Folies.á I was totally awed and will see this show
>for sure on the next trip.á It was very classy, fun and entertaining.
>
>I took your advice and stayed away from the buffet at the Trop.á I
>would recommend the buffet at the Monte Carlo for breakfast.á Best
>food I’ve had anywhere.á The eggs are so fresh, it’s as if they just
>cooked them and handed them to you that moment.á Great service, but
>get there early because the lines are out the door after 9:00 a.m.
>
>We rented a car for the first time and we had a ball.á Once you learn
>to drive like a native (nuts!) it’s easy.á I would recommend it as we
>got to see a lot more of The Strip and went to Hoover Dam.

Most people that rent cars are very happy they did, even if they don’t go see Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon, etc. Cab fare ads up quick and the bus and trolley takes forever. You can see and do so much more and the freedom is unmatched. We are pleased to offer discount car rental at http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005

Elaine from New Jersey wrote:

>Just returned from 10 days in Vegas.á Five at the Venetian and 5 at
>the Riviera to participate in the National Open Chess Tournament.
>Venetian was big and beautiful, but can’t help feeling at home in the
>small but homey Riviera.á Could it be that my husband and I were
>married there awhile back?á Great Italian restaurant is Batista’s Hole
>In The Wall which is a couple of blocks behind Bally’s.

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

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

 

ONLINE POLL – “Would you plan an additional trip to Las Vegas each year to watch spring training games?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!Results from last poll: “Are you planning a Las Vegas visit despite the high fuel prices?”

I was looking into coming, but gas / airfare is just too much. 2%
I’m still coming but putting off the trip until prices come down. 7%
I’m a regular visitor, but may cut out a trip or two this year if they stay high. 10%
Are you kidding? Getting there is the cheap part. Nothing could keep me away! 81%

FREE CONTESTS:

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

The Frontier is giving away:

FREE Margarita
FREE Margarita Glass
300 Bonus Points in the Slot Club
$5 Match Play on Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow and Big Six Wheel
50ó Draft Beer
Savings at the Tin Cup (featuring Starbucks Coffee)
And moreà..

Entry info at http://www.frontierlv.com/reward.html

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
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All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
April 5, 2000