Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 13, 2007

Posted on June 13, 2007April 14, 2014 by admin

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

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Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We stopped by The Frontier (New Frontier, whatever) on Monday just for a final walk-through before they close it later this week. The Frontier never had that special distinction that The Sands or The Stardust had, but certainly a landmark none-the-less.

Treat Dadá To A Concert – Just a reminder that we have great tickets for sports and concert events nationwide, not just here in Las Vegas. Can’t think of that perfect Father’s Day gift? Nothing like tickets to his favorite band or sports team. Check out our huge selection at Tickets.AccessVegas.com

We are happy to answer questions… but: We very much appreciate reader feedback and questions. It helps shape our content and keeps this newsletter the very best it can be. However, a couple of important notes…

Many times, we are asked about something discussed or linked to in a recent newsletter. We put significant hard work into gathering all of the information we send you. Please at least do us the courtesy of looking over the last few issues in our archives before sending in a question. You might be amazed that we already covered the topic (and many others you were interested in).
Almost every week, people ask “When will (insert name of concert or show) tickets be on sale.” We publish as often as we do to get you the most fresh info possible. If we have tickets available, you know right away!Sidebar: A rumor of a pending performer (including but not limited to the perpetual rumor that Michael Jackson is going to have a show here) does NOT mean a show is pending or that tickets are available. Once again… if you are a regular reader, you find out about new shows and tickets as soon as we know!

Las Vegas Still Cigar Friendly – Although the (often flouted) smoking ban has attempted to impact both cigar and cigarette smoking, cigar aficionados and those who just indulge on special occasions still have places to enjoy the “long ashes” of a good cigar. The L.A. Times recent article Las Vegas cigar lounges roll out the welcome mat is a nice primer.

Legally, you can enjoy them outdoors, on the casino floor (including bars on a casino floor) and in nightclubs/lounges that do not serve food. As always, be polite and ask the bartender if cigar smoking is acceptable or simply patronize the places mentioned in the article. Also, a tip of the hat to the nationally syndicated, fine living oriented Cigar Dave Show who has our own gaming expert Victor H. Royer as a guest every year. (Click for audio archives of Victor H. Royer on the Cigar Dave Show).

Enjoy This Issue!

Michael Buble Will Perform Live At The MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, July 14 – The young singing sensation Michael Buble (Tickets) brings his 2007 tour to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, July 14. In what many believe will be one of the hottest concerts of the year, Buble brings his irrepressible spirit, engaging humor and confident charisma to the concert stage. The show is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

Fantasy Adds Provocative New Dance Numbers – Fantasy, the seductive adult revue at Luxor, recently added several dance numbers to the steamy production. (Fantasy Tickets) The new spellbinding routines captivate audience members as the beautiful cast acts out sensual fantasies nightly. Earlier this month, FANTASY introduced several numbers including a new opening dance routine and an original song entitled “Goin’ to Vegas” written and performed by FANTASY songstress Stephanie Jordan. In 2006, FANTASY introduced “Don’t Stop,” an upbeat number featuring an original song by Cris Judd and Darren Sher. Click to Read The Full Story …

Bernard Hopkins Battles Winky Wright Saturday, July 21 At Mandalay Bay Live On Pay-Per-View – When boxing historians look at the current era of boxing, two names will stand out among the finest of this generation û Bernard Hopkins and Winky Wright (Tickets). However, for these fierce competitors, being one of the elite is not enough. On Saturday, July 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center live on HBO Pay-Per-View, Hopkins and Wright will battle one another to claim supremacy. “I’m back and my record speaks for itself,” said Hopkins, the former undisputed middleweight champion whose Ring magazine light heavyweight belt will be on the line in this 170-pound bout. Click to Read The Full Story …

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country – The Newest Place To Round Up – Nightspot To Become Hottest Destination For Country Fans – Stoney’s Rockin’ Country is the latest venue offering foot-stoppin’ good times for the cowboys and cowgirls at heart. Conveniently located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just north of the South Point Hotel and Casino, Stoney’s is the largest one-level nightlife spot in Las Vegas with more than 20,000 square feet dedicated to country fun. Scheduled to open late July, Stoney’s Rockin’ Country will feature weekly live entertainment on the 45-foot by 25-foot main stage using a state-of-the-art Meyers Concert Series sound system to amplify the sounds of local, regional and national talent acts. The elevated 2,500 square foot hardwood dance floor is flanked by two full-service bars, that at 40 feet and 50 feet ensure quick drink service. Other bar highlights include three 44-foot mini bowling lanes and four pool tables. Click to Read The Full Story …

Lance Burton Charity Work: Working With Children Can Be Magical – Nobody was more surprised and pleased then Lance Burton (Tickets) when he was named “MOST GENEROUS LAS VEGAN” by the editors of the 2007 Las Vegas Review-Journal’s 26th ANNUAL BEST OF LAS VEGAS POLL. He was in good company with Andre Agassi chosen by the readers. This was in addition to winning “Best Magician” for seven consecutive times in the coveted poll. The R-J staffers summed it up in a nutshell saying, “No matter how masterful a magician Lance Burton is, he can’t expand time. So the time and talent he contributes may be even more valuable than the financial support he lends to organizations from the Animal Foundation to the Shriner’s Zelzah Temple Transportation Fund, which buys vans equipped with wheelchair lifts to bring disabled children to The Shriner’s Hospital in Los Angeles. Click to Read The Full Story …

Sushi Roku Showcases The Midas Touch with Its Lustrous Cocktail Restaurant Creates Signature Drink For One Day Only, July 7, 2007 – Sushi Roku launches a signature drink, Shichi meaning seven in Japanese, designed for the luckiest day of the century: July 7, 2007. Sushi Roku’s Shichi cocktail is a superstar citrus blend that is sure to strike gold. Named after the seven Japanese gods of good fortune, this drink is assembled with 1 ounce of Hangar One Kaffir Lime vodka and Midori, a 1/2 fresh-squeezed lime, a splash of triple sec and 1 ounce of lemon sour. After the ingredients are mixed in a shaker, the liquid is strained into a martini glass and garnished with a 24K gold leaf-wrapped lime. Click to Read The Full Story …

Alexis Gershwin, Niece Of Composers George And Ira Gershwin, Pays Tribute To Her Uncles’ Timeless Music In “Gershwin Sings Gershwin” At The Suncoast Beginning July 20th Through July 22nd – A beautiful Gershwin will sing beautiful Gershwin music July 20th through July 22nd at the Suncoast Hotel and Casino’s Showroom located at 9090 Alta Drive, Las Vegas with showtime at 7:30 p.m. Alexis Gershwin, niece of famous composers George and Ira Gershwin, will perform the Gershwins’ memorable classics including “Embraceable You”, “They Can’t Take That Away From Me”, “Our Love Is Here To Stay”, and “S’wonderful,” among others. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Second City — Las Vegas Opens All New Revue At The Flamingo – Sin City’s Favorite Improv Comedy Troupe Launches Sixth Season Of Side-Splitting Laughs – The Second City and Jam Theatricals are proud to announce the opening of an all-new revue at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel on Monday, June 11th at 8pm. Under the direction of Jim Carlson, the Las Vegas edition of The Second City (Tickets) features a variety of scenes, songs and improvisation, including bad hypnotists, maniacal helicopter pilots and a rap inspired by the fall of Don Imus. Click to Read The Full Story …

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Tao Nightclub Las Vegas Photos – Located in the beautiful Venetian Hotel and Casino, Tao Nightclub (Info and VIP Passes) is a city to itself, an Asian city. This 40,000 square foot monster is a work of art. With tubs filled with naked ladies and rose petals to all the far east decor, to the 40 foot buddah, the partners of the New York Tao has successfully brought the Pacific Rim to the City of Sin. The nightclub is divided into three areas, the main room with the dance floor and the skyboxes, the House room and the Ultra Lounge downstairs.

Tao Nightclub Las Vegas Photos

Gambling Talk: Playing Middle Pairs In Tournaments – Part One – with Victor H. Royer. Middle pairs can be very troubling for a great many players, particularly in poker tournaments. Some of them tend to look very good, and as a result they can very often be misplayed. These are the pairs that are traditionally considered to be middle pairs. All of them are highly vulnerable to overcards, and therefore all of them should be played extremely cautiously. In late positions, you can play pocket 9s as if they were pocket 10s, but other than that any of these medium pears are usually a candidate for the muck. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week: Sunset Strip – “Sunset Strip” is a rockin’ band that fills the room with great sounds and funky beats. Bringing together some of the finest musicians and performers in the industry, “Sunset Strip” proudly presents two of the most talented vocalists to one stage. Lorena Peril and Sina Foley each possess unique styles and amazing vocal strength. Sunset Strip performs in the lounge of the Las Vegas Hilton.

Click To View Sunset Strip: Broadband (only)

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Submitted Photos:

Attached is a photo of the Stratosphere-close up! This was taken from a Maverick Helicopter tour chopper on our way back from the Grand Canyon. The Stratosphere is where we got engaged, so it’s a special place for us. You just got to love Vegas!

Kent Richardson

Ted Responds:

We haven’t talked about Maverick Helicopter Tours much lately, so now is a great time to remind everyone that I consider it a “must do” on a Las Vegas vacation. I’ve done almost everything there is to see and do in town, and nothing compares to flying over the Las Vegas Strip in a Maverick Helicopter.

Those who take a Grand Canyon Tour get to fly over The Strip on their return from the Canyon. Maverick also offers stand-alone night flights over The Strip are are nothing short of amazing. (Note to self: I haven’t been up over The Strip in a Maverick chopper lately… arrange to do so).

Maverick isn’t a discount company. They are professional, top-notch, newest and most comfortable equipment, and no accidents or incidents. Also, their terminal is just south of Mandalay Bay so you spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time in transit. Click for Maverick Helicopter Information.

More Stratosphere Tower Las Vegas Photos

Here is my photo taken from my room at the Excalibur. Let’s call this one “Sunrise on the Strip”.Thomos Grossá

More Las Vegas Strip Photos

If you have a great photo of Las Vegas to share with our readers (can be artistic or just a really enjoyable photo), send them to us at allvegastv@aol.com.

Dear Ted:We recently returned home from our umpteenth visit to beautiful Las Vegas over the last ten years, and I would like to make a comment about the so-called Californication of Las Vegas.One of the best things about your town, and Nevada in general, is its permissive, tolerant attitude. Now, we noticed, since the last time we were in Las Vegas in December, that suddenly there is no smoking in restaurants and also rest rooms, in most of the casino properties. This is simply stupid. There was never a big problem of people smoking in restaurants anyway, and smoking in rest rooms may have made it harder to keep the rest rooms clean, but now the people who maintain rest rooms just get smaller tips. Is this good for your economy?

For your info – I am a 53 year old pipe/cigar smoker who would never think of lighting up in a restaurant, since I wouldn’t want to offend anybody, because I am a polite person.

What we all need is a return to common courtesy, not legislating the Wild West out of Las Vegas. If they ever ban smoking in the casinos, we wouldn’t want to come visit anymore. Gamblers smoke – LIVE WITH IT!

Sincerely,

Kevin Cardiff
Baltimore, MD

Ted Responds:

I am someone who enjoys a cigar from time-to-time (only where appropriate), and we followed this issue in a huge way in our newsletter last year and earlier this year.

If you scroll down to the “More News” area with news links in our newsletter, we continue to stay on top of it. Rebellion and lawsuits are rampant, and certain businesses (and people) are thumbing their nose at this law that barely passed with 54% of the vote.

Even though your visit is done, I encourage you to stay subscribed to our newsletter as we will continue to feature news links regarding this in the second half of our newsletter. Also, please do consider telling friends and family about our newsletter if they have any interest in Las Vegas. Sign-up is at no cost at AccessVegas.com.

Have a Vegas comment or question? Post To Our Message Boards!We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
Post a comment, Vegas suggestion, or question to the appropriate category of our Message Boards.
Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

Readers Rants, Raves, and Questions – Great reader questions and comments from our Access Vegas Message Boards. Help someone out or post your own comment or question!

Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

Fathers Day June 17
Independence Day July 4
Civic Holiday (Canada) August 6 (3 day weekend)
Labor Day September 1-3 (3 day weekend)
Columbus Day (USA), Thanksgiving Day (Canada) October 6-8 (3 day weekend)
Christmas December 25 (4 day weekend – Christmas on Tuesday)
New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (4 day weekend – New Years on Tuesday)

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

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

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2007 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

June 13, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 08, 2006

Posted on November 8, 2006April 7, 2014 by admin

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

Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials

Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We had a short absence between newsletters. Every time we push the two week mark, many of you write and wonder if you missed one. We appreciate your loyalty, and if you read the October 25, 2006 edition, you have missed nothing since. New reader or not sure? Click on the above link to enjoy our previous issue.

Last week was a scheduled week off (from publishing). We went and paid homage to the Stardust and scouted some of the huge new construction at Venetian, Wynn and CityCenter. We’ll have updates over the next few weeks.

This week we delayed publishing 1. To not compete with the national elections which had many people riveted and talking and 2. We wanted to bring you as much information as possible to what happened in Nevada that may or may not affect you as a visitor and Las Vegas tourism in general.

Regular readers know that we are not a political publication. Hence, I am going to refrain from any commentary. Below you will find links to the major stories about the various issues related to Las Vegas and Nevada. Not into politics or just don’t care? Scroll on… this newsletter is jammed with the latest Las Vegas information you need to know!

I have been continuing to predict the following for quite some time: With all of the upscale new hotels and condo-tels, a couple of Las Vegas Strip properties are renewing their commitment to focus on the more moderate budget traveler:

Although the Tropicana is going to build a bunch of new towers and give the old casino and towers a big-time makeover, they won’t be attempting to compete with Wynn Las Vegas or Venetian. And after a year (or more) of The Riviera’s attempted sale, rumors of a sale, and plenty of speculation, they are digging in their heals to really remind people that they are an affordable option on The Strip.

The weather has been stunning, pushing 80 F and sunny on a regular basis. I’ll be spending the weekend by the pool. With major winter-type storms hitting the Midwest and flooding rain in my native Pacific Northwest, it is a great time to sneak away to Las Vegas!

Don’t miss our special section with links to stories about the closing of the Stardust at the end of the newsletter. Truly the end of an era.

Enjoy This Issue!

Review: Second City Las Vegas

by Nancy Dickinson

When life’s clutches seem to squeeze the soul for it’s last drop of vitality, it’s definitely time for a change of scenery- a reminder to make fun of it all and not take ourselves too seriously- a trip to experience Second City. This relatively scriptless, improvisational comedy show tucked secretly in a comfy showroom inside the Flamingo, packs a unique comic punch of which it’s knuckles don’t fail to graze anything- young, old, straight, gay, and grotesquely yet beautifully human. The final product is a show that literally puts all the fun back into mankind, dissecting the human condition relentlessly while exploiting everything at a satirical level off the charts. Click to Read Complete Review

Prince Opens 3121 Club And 3121 Jazz Cuisine Inside The Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino – 3121 — Live entertainment venue and club schedule. Wednesday nights may feature special guest performances by friends of Prince and special guests. Fridays and Saturdays: Live performance by world-renowned artist Prince. Click to Read The Full Story …

RA Sushi Bar Restaurant Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary Event with $2 Food & Drink Specials on November 15 – RA Sushi Bar Restaurant located at the Fashion Show Mall is celebrating two years in Las Vegas. In celebration on Wednesday, November 15, RA Sushi will be offering $2 food and drink specials to all those who arrive dressed in RA’s signature colors – red and black. The following items will be available from 8 p.m. until close for only $2: California Rolls, Tootsy Maki, Pineapple Cheese Wontons, Chicken Yakitori, Barrosa Chardonnay, Screwdrivers, Kamikaze shots and Bud or Bud Light beer. Click to Read The Full Story …

Luxor Resort And Casino To Be Home To Third Season Of “Criss Angel Mindfreak” On A&E Network – Filming To Begin Monday, November 6, 2006 – Luxor Resort and Casino will be the home for the third season of A&E Network’s “Criss Angel MINDFREAK.” The critically acclaimed show will air on A&E Network beginning in the Spring of 2007. In its first two seasons, “Criss Angel MINDFREAK” garnered critical acclaim, delivering the biggest ratings numbers in A&E Network’s history. In each episode Criss Angel demonstrates his visionary approach to the art of magic that escapes the confines of tradition and gives birth to a new breed of modern mysticism. The third season of the show will feature Criss performing demonstrations and illusions in and around the numerous attractions and features of the Luxor Resort and Casino as well as various locations at other MGM MIRAGE properties. Click to Read The Full Story …

Bellagio, Picasso And Le Cirque Receive 2007 AAA Five Diamond Award – Bellagio Continues To Shine As Only Hotel In The Country With Two Five Diamond Restaurants – For the sixth consecutive year, Bellagio has received AAA’s prestigious Five Diamond Award as did Julian Serrano’s renowned restaurant, Picasso. Additionally, Le Cirque received the distinction for the fourth consecutive year, making Bellagio once again the only hotel in the United States to be home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants. “These AAA distinctions are a tremendous honor and recognize the commitment each of our employees makes every day,” said William P. McBeath, president and COO of Bellagio. “We consistently strive to maintain the highest level of quality for our guests. Recognitions such as AAA’s tell us that we are succeeding in that area.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Magic And Comedy Collide In Comedy Central’s Latest One-Hour Stand-Up Special “The Amazing Johnathan: Wrong On Every Level” Debuting Saturday, November 18 At 10:00 p.m. – COMEDY CENTRAL viewers, step right up! The Amazing Johnathan works all-new comedy magic in the World Premiere of COMEDY CENTRAL’s one-hour special “The Amazing Johnathan: Wrong on Every Level,” debuting on COMEDY CENTRAL Saturday, November 18 at 10:00 p.m. (Eastern, check local listings). From “Pick a card, Any card” to swallowing razor blades like they’re candy, audience participants join The Amazing Johnathan and his delightfully ditzy assistant, Psychic Tanya, in performing illusions — even though some of the tricks may not turn out as planned. It’s an all-new hour of can’t-believe-your-eyes comedy with surprises around every corner! Click to Read The Full Story …

Phat Chance You Won’t Enjoy Phat Strad – Imagine sipping champagne in Tempo, the Las Vegas HiltonÆs high-energy lounge, and beautiful women playing strings walk by your table. This is not a dream. This is Phat Strad, a unique international group of classically trained women who perform rock music arranged for a string quartet, playing futuristic electronic instruments, with an industrial strength techno drum groove. Definitely unique. Hours: Wednesdays-Saturdays, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

MGM Grand Shines Among The Best – Skylofts At MGM Grand And Joel Robuchon Earn Prestigious 2007 AAA Five Diamond Award – AAA has awarded SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand and Joel Robuchon with the highly coveted Five Diamond Award, an accolade that recognizes these establishments among the most elite hotels and restaurants in the world. “The AAA Five Diamond Award is among the highest compliments a hotel or restaurant can receive,” said MGM Grand President & COO Gamal Aziz. “For SKYLOFTS and Joel Robuchon to earn this distinction reflects MGM Grand’s commitment to delivering superior products and experiences to our guests.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Second Annual World Salsa Championships to be Held in Las Vegas – The Salsa Seven Inc., the company responsible for the World Salsa Championships, announces the 2nd annual World Salsa Championships December 13-16 in Las Vegas at the new South Point Hotel, formerly known as the South Coast Hotel & Casino. Salsa dancing has taken off as an international phenomenon as competitors from more than 20 countries on six continents are set to compete in the 2nd annual World Salsa Championships. Click to Read The Full Story …

Look Out Times Square, Las Vegas Counts Down New Year’s Eve With The Nation When DIRECTV’s CD USA Broadcasts America’s Party Live From Fremont Street – Move over Times Square! Las Vegas is the new place for New Year’s Eve as DIRECTV’s exclusive live music performance show, CD USA takes over the famous Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas during America’s Party for its live, nationally televised celebration featuring today’s hottest music artists and special celebrity guests. This explosive, four-hour plus celebration will air exclusively on DIRECTV’s channel 101 starting at 11 p.m. ET (8 p.m. PT) with a lineup that includes live performances from chart toppers Five for Fighting, All-American Rejects, Rockstar:SuperNova, Smash Mouth, OK Go and Chicago. Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals alike gather in Las Vegas for the world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebration known as America’s Party. Click to Read The Full Story …

Las Vegas Entertainers Society of Seven with Lani Misalucha To Light Ethel M’s Chocolate Wonderland on November 15: – Renowned performers Society of Seven featuring singer Lani Misalucha, will serve as the special guest hosts for the Ethel M Chocolates’ 13th Annual Holiday Cactus Lighting.

The spectacular holiday light show will be free for public viewing from November 16, 2006 through to January 1, 2007. During the five-week-long “Chocolate Wonderland,” held at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory in Henderson, families can stroll down the illuminated cacti pathways of the Botanical Cactus Garden and experience the sights, smells and sounds of chocolate from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., seven days of week.

Click To Read Full Details and Garden Viewing Holiday Info
Ethel M’s Chocolate Wonderland Las Vegas Computer Wallpaper (larger version of photo above, click to view)

Over The Barrel (Tasting) – Beaujolais Nouveau will be making its journey from the Beaujolais area, located in the Southern part of France, to all parts of the world, with more than a million cases moving on the third Thursday of November. More than 65 million bottles will be distributed and drunk around the world. It has become a worldwide race to be the first to serve this wine of the harvest. It has been carried by motorcycle, balloon, truck, helicopter, jet and elephant. Fortuna, a coffee and wine experience at the Las Vegas Hilton, is barreling forward with a new tasting of this wine on Thursday, November 16 at 6 p.m.

Kellie Karl Plays Tony’s Psychiatrist In ‘The Sopranos Last Supper’ – New Orleans’ Southern Belle Sings, Dances, Acts And Even Impersonated Stevie Nicks – Kellie Karl may be one of the most versatile entertainers on the Las Vegas Strip and presently can be seen nightly in “The Sopranos Last Supper” at the Harmon Theater at the Aladdin’s Desert Passage. She said, “I play Tony’s psychiatrist in the musical at the Harmon Theater. I’m from New Orleans, the city that used to be and is no longer. My entire family is from there and came here during the storm. Her house survived but my other relatives lost everything. My mother could not wait to get back home.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Poker By The ATC Method – with Victor H. Royer. I have been witness to poker plays which defy all logic, mathematics, reason or sense. Was it sheer bravado, or just pure luck? Was it really good play? How is it that many players can play with such aggressive abandon and win, and win, and win? Throughout the year I have thought about this. I have played in games and saw with my own eyes how players employ this way of playing and I was astounded by the frequency of their wins. I have tried this myself, and even with me it worked – some of the time. I surely am not an expert at this type of play. At least not yet. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Chippendales Las Vegas – Sinful schoolboy charm. Naughty fantasy colliding with the boy next door. This is the winning combination that has solidified Chippendales Las Vegas as the premier brand in women’s entertainment. This is the sexual recipe that has turned this internationally known brand into a household name across the globe. This is the Ultimate Girls Night Out. Chippendales, The Show recently opened the doors to it’s custom designed home at the Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino. 21,000 square feet designed by women for the pleasure of women, this new night spot is a veritable oasis in the desert.

Chippendales Las Vegas Photos

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week – New Years Eve 1996 Hacienda Hotel Implosion In 1996, The Hacienda Hotel was imploded live on the Fox Network for their nationally televised New Year’s Eve special from Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay now sits on that property.

Click To View New Years Eve 1996 Hacienda Hotel Implosion: Broadband (only)

See the Grand Canyon in a Jet Helicopter! For years Maverick Helicopters has been providing a true VIP Helicopter experience of the Grand Canyon. We do things a little different than any other helicopter Company. We give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Las Vegas Strip tours plus Helicopter Weddings also available!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Readers Write:

I know the Stardust is closing > might you know if and when they are going to implode the hotel. Do you know if they have set a date for the implosion ? I would love to see it !

PS > Any tips on where the loosest 25 & 50 cent slots are located in Vegas.

Andrew Colton

Ted Responds:

Andrew,

Although rumored for a New Year’s Eve implosion, the latest word is of an early spring implosion, using it for a grand kickoff to the construction of replacement Project Echelon Place. A New Year’s Eve implosion certainly would have been nice. However, the extra expenseá (crowd control and security) would have to be offset by a TV deal to broadcast it live on a network TV New Year’s Eve special. One can’t yet rule it out.

This is not without precedent: In the late 90’s, The Hacienda was imploded on New Year’s Eve to make way for Mandalay Bay, broadcast nationwide as part of Fox’s New Year’s TV special. We have that video for you in our streaming video section earlier in the newsletter.

Generally speaking, the loosest slots are in the “local’s” casinos around the Las Vegas Valley (you can’t clean the locals out as quickly, or they won’t keep coming back). Tightest are on The Strip, and downtown falls in between the two (according to regular state gaming reports which do not chart specific casinos). And generally speaking, the nicer the place, the tighter the slots. Those nice surroundings cost more to maintain!

Having said that, anyone can have good or bad luck in the few days of a visit. Play where you feel or seem lucky. Trust me, if I knew exactly where the hottest slots were, I’d be down playing them.

One last note: Sometimes slot attendants (what few that are left) or bartenders will point out “hot machines.” Bull. If they actually knew which machines were ready to pay, don’t you think they would be calling their friends, mate, or anyone else they knew to get in and play the thing? They only do that because if you actually do hit, you’ll feel obligated to give them a bigger tip.

Live From Las Vegas,

Have a Vegas comment or question? Post To Our Message Boards!

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

Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
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Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call, and use some of them on our Radio.AccessVegas.com Streaming Broadcast! (Don’t worry … we never broadcast your personal information. All calls used are edited to insure caller privacy).
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Readers Rants, Raves, and Questions – Great reader questions and comments from our Access Vegas Message Boards. Help someone out or post your own comment or question!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

The Closing of the Stardust Stories

Thanksgiving November 23-26 (4 day weekend)
Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend – Christmas on Monday)
New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (3 day weekend – New Years on Monday)

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New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2006 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

November 8, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 5, 2001

Posted on September 5, 2001November 25, 2009 by admin

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 50 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 or wish off our list, simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Condos and Vacation Rentals: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Reservation Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas opinions! Our boards are new so let’s fill them up with the good, bad, and just general comments on your last visit. Plus, we now have a section for trip reports. New boards at http://boards.accessvegas.com

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THIS ISSUE: Guinness World of Records Museum

EDITOR’S NOTES: I’m making a slight format change. Instead of providing a short summery of each story then linking to the full text, I’ll make a few comments on the more interesting happenings of the past week then have headlines with links to full stories.

I spoke with Vanna Lace (Penthouse, Miss Nude World) last weekend about her upcoming role in Skintight at Harrah’s. She will be replacing former Playboy Playmate Cynthia Brimhall and tells me the show is being revamped for her role.

Our video tests continue to go well. I found three short Las Vegas tourism commercials from a few years ago which I put back-to-back at http://tv.accessvegas.com/commercials just for fun. Word of warning: these will give you that “Vegas Vibe” and you’ll be booking your next trip here after watching them!

Finally, my apologies to the new Nectar restaurant at Bellagio for last week’s typo, where a typo noted the Dungeness Crab as “Dungeness Crap.” A number of you caught that error — at least you had a good laugh! If you try Nectar, please post your comments of the dining area of our message board at http://boards.accessvegas.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:

McCarran airport is noting flight operations at 90% of normal and the delays are dwindling.

LOCAL NEWS – updated daily at http://www.accessvegas.com

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm ). 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!

WINNER! – Brian Deeley of Philadelphia, PA won the relocation guide.

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SECOND CITY – alum and Emmy-Award winner Joe Flaherty will join the Las Vegas Second City ensemble for a special series of performances at Bugsy’s Celebrity Theatre in The Flamingo Sept. 14 – Sept. 16. Shows are at 8 and 10 PM Tickets are still available and can be obtained online at http://www.accessvegas.com/show-tickets.htm (Show is listed as “The Second City”)

CONGRATS – goes to both Clint Holmes and Mac King for their (separate) new five year contracts are Harrah’s. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Sep-04-Tue-2001/living/16902136.html Both shows are worth seeing and you can read our archived reviews:

Clint Holmes: http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/clint-holmes-las-vegas-shows.htm
Mac King: http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/mac-king-comedy-magic.htm

RAHMAN vs. LEWIS – billed as “Judgment Day”, these two fighters meet November 17 in their WBC and IBF rematch at Mandalay Bay. Tickets available at (702) 632-7580

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Elvis Shows (Various) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Aug-17-Fri-2001/weekly/16766157.html
* Rodney Dangerfield (MGM) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Aug-31-Fri-2001/weekly/16876159.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

* SHOW REVIEWS – Read our unbiased, archived show reviews at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com
* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Search by date at http://www.accessvegas.com/show-tickets.htm
* GOLF RESERVATIONS – Grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Search by date, see prices at http://www.accessvegas.com/golf-reservations.htm
* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.accessvegas.com/dinner-reservations.htm
* LAS VEGAS WEATHER – http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Las_Vegas.html

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Ortanique (Paris) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Sep-05-Wed-2001/living/16896642.html
* Steak House (Circus Circus) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Aug-10-Fri-2001/weekly/16712348.html

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FEATURE STORY: Guinness World of Records Museum

You have to go out of your way to find the Las Vegas version of this world famous Museum. And unlike the Liberace Museum or others that have loads of authentic items, this museum leans more on displays, facts, and videos. However, if you (or your kids) are curious about the world we live in, this is a reasonably fun and inexpensive stop on your Vegas itinerary.

You enter to a replica of the world’s tallest man, and move on to the world’s heaviest as well as the shortest twins. Then to food and drink: the largest shot glass collection in the world (seems appropriate for Vegas), replicas of the biggest fruits and vegetables in the world in a giant fruit basket, and information on a variety of food eating records. Although in a different area, that might tie in with the world’s largest “air sickness bags” gathered from airlines all over the world!

Other sections of the museum include graphical or interactive displays for tallest structures, highest mountains, entertainment and music, and space achievements. Of special interest were displays with videos of the world’s largest domino fall records that were fascinating to watch as well as a video of the worlds longest rope slide (two guys strung a rope almost a mile up a mountain and slid all the way down together on a pulley).

A special Las Vegas section notes the records set by the Luxor Beam (strongest light — can be seen from space), Stratosphere Tower (highest thrill rides), Fremont St. Experience light show, Hoover Dam, and others.

For sports buffs, they have an interactive sports record database where you can look up just about any record every set in any sport. This is part of a good-sized sports record display.

Las Vegas Guinness World of Records is located at 2780 Las Vegas Blvd. South (The Strip — halfway between Circus Circus and The Sahara across from Wet N’ Wild). Open daily, admission is $6.00 for adults, $5 for students, seniors, and military, and $4 for children under 12.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Bob Larson wrote:

>Ellis Island is the best food deal in town if you don’t mind
>being off strip and in a place populated by the locals. We were there
>21-25 July and the $1.99 steak and eggs and the $4.95 24/7 steak
>dinner are great. Also they brew 7 kinds of their own beer. A round
>of a tall weiss beir and a bloody mary was only $3.

Ellis Island is on Koval behind Bally’s. Not only do they have great food specials (the ($4.95 steak is an “off menu special” last I checked — ask for it) and microbrews, but they are famous for the nightly Karaoke.

Denise Brewer wrote:

>Taxi’s are expensive, the bus and shuttles are usually
>crowded and stop frequently which makes a short hop down the strip
>take much longer. Our solution? We rent a car. The hotels offer
>free parking but if you park the car yourself, you usually have to
>walk a long way from the garage. Use valet parking instead! It’s
>free! And, the valet lane is always next to a main hotel/casino
>entrance — very convenient. We always tip the driver who brings our
>car to us a buck or two. We don’t tip when dropping it off. It’s
>wonderful knowing we have our own transportation any time you want it
>and the money we spend on the rental is always less than what we would
>have spent on taxi’s.

Graham Steel wrote:

>I have returned home today to England after a wonderful week at the
>Luxor, and found the CAPS service to be invaluable. It meant that our
>last day in Vegas could be a proper ‘vacation’ day, instead of sitting
>around after the compulsory checkout time with luggage just waiting
>for that time when you have to leave. It worked superbly; checked in
>our suitcases at am, left our hand baggage at the hotel safety deposit
>room, and fully enjoyed our last day in Vegas.
>
>The only thing to remember, though, is this; when checking in as
>normal at the Airport, a passenger can request an ’emergency exit’
>seat, to give more leg room on a long flight. This is done on a
>’first come, first served’ basis. However, CAPS does not have this
>option; it is left to airline staff at the departure gate to
>distribute these highly sought-after seats. So, you have virtually no
>chance of getting one if you use the CAPS service!

Nikki wrote:

>I wanted to know why they changed the name of Grand Slam Canyon and
>why the tram the park or whatever it was closed I want to know the
>truth about it. I have been told that the car’s on it smashed together
>causing a very bad accident is that true? I know the park has it’s
>problems my mother was hurt and the water ride when the park opened
>some years ago it went of the track and hit the wall instead of the
>water.

The name change to Adventuredome was just a marketing decision. I’ve lived here almost a decade and have not heard of serious injury at the park. You didn’t include anymore details or outcome. Both the park and the tram are operating normally and you can read our review of Adventuredome (with photos) at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/circus-circus-adventuredome.htm

Dan & Deanne wrote:

>We recently spent a week in Las Vegas and had a good time, except for
>the phone call we made home to our son. We made a collect call from
>the Gold Strike and we talked seven (7) minutes. When we returned
>home and received our phone bill it cost $19.30!! That is absurd!! I
>called to inquire as to why we had received this ridiculous charge and
>was told that it was because of the carrier that picked it up. I feel
>we should have been warned that they were charging an outrageous fee
>and we would have made the call from somewhere else. You can be sure
>we’ll NEVER make another phone call from a casino. Actually the best
>part of our trip was our tour of the Las Vegas Speedway and Red Rock
>Canyon.

Much of the charge is based on the carrier the hotel uses, and you will find yourself getting zapped the same way if you make a collect call from a pay phone (hence, the success of those TV ads encouraging you to save money using their service for collect calls). We strongly suggest buying a phone card before your trip like the one we advertise at http://www.accessvegas.com/cogni-talk.htm and use it at pay phones.

Joanne of Ithaca, NY wrote:

>I am visiting Vegas in early October and interested in see some of the
>nearby sites. Is there a review, recommendation or warning for the
>trips available to Red Rock, Grand Canyon, etc.? Also, is the Fremont
>Street area as safe as the Strip area?

Despite the recent helicopter accident, we suggest air (plane or helicopter) trips to the Grand Canyon. It is hours from Las Vegas by bus. You spend far more time on the bus than seeing the Canyon. We are going to be taking a ‘copter trip this fall and will have first hand reports and info then. I just haven’t had the time to take the tours yet! Red Rock Canyon is about 30 minutes from The Strip — worth the car rental for the day as it is well worth seeing. Info at http://www.redrock.org

Fremont Street Experience is a very safe provided you stay within a block or two of the canopy light show area.

Shelli Wolis wrote:

>For your information, I’m spending two weeks in LV from August 25th
>through September 8th and will be taking a copy of your newsletter
>with me. Your information is more than helpful in some of my planning
>and I forward it to friends as they travel.
>
>Thank you for the wonderful work you do!

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

Your input is welcome. Because of limited space here, we encourage you to post comments about specific Las Vegas hotels, shows, attractions, and general trip reports to our Comment Las Vegas message board at http://boards.accessvegas.com

For comments or questions regarding topics in the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) 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).

ONLINE POLL – “How long do you usually stay in Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from our last poll “What is your favorite Las Vegas souvenir?”

Gaming Chips 33%
Drink Glasses 20%
Coin Cups 19%
T-Shirts, Clothes 18%
Gift Shop Misc. (Dice Clock, Postcards, Etc) 8%

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LAS VEGAS TRAVEL PACKAGES: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm

LAS VEGAS TRAVEL SPECIALS:

VEGAS HOTELS ON SALE:
Imperial Palace from $69
Caesars from $189

VEGAS VACATIONS ON SALE:
Luxor from $283
Monte Carlo from $329

Book any above specials at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.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!

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 25, 2001

Posted on April 25, 2001April 29, 2009 by admin

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

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: Second City

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 (click): mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

EDITORS NOTE: The weather has been stunning — my little free time has been spent around the pool. With our low humidity, 85-90 is perfect here. Also, we are going nuts adding new services for you! We have the new hotel hotline 1-800-666-5268 for those who still fear booking online or feel better talking to someone, we’ve added hotels in Hawaii with the same guaranteed low rates (see http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas ), and we now have condos and vacation rentals at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

$5.1 MILLION JACKPOT – A Cypress, Calif. man returned to his lucky Wheel of Fortune(R) dollar machine at Paris Las Vegas Friday evening and walked away $5.1 million richer. Jim Fowler said that on a previous trip he had won $1,750 on the same slot machine and had since made it a point to play it when in Las Vegas. Full story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

CHAOS – is the name of the new ride at Adventuredome (Circus Circus). Similar to the popular thrill park ride The Zipper, this ride rocks, rolls, and rotates in a unique way each time, assuring riders that no two rides are the same. Story and photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-30-Fri-2001/weekly/15707266.html

BASKETBALL TOURNAMENTS – are headed to Vegas this fall. A Thanksgiving weekend event will have Illinois, Iowa State, Georgia Tech, Saint Louis, Hartford, Pennsylvania, Southern Illinois and Eastern Illinois and the pre-Christmas tournament fields Cincinnati, Purdue, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, Richmond, Southwest Missouri State and Illinois-Chicago, with an eighth team to be announced. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-25-Wed-2001/sports/15949929.html

CSI – CBS’ highest ranked new show will be in town shooting for the next couple of weeks. Although set in Las Vegas, the majority of the shooting is done in LA. This Sunday night, Speed — The Ride at The Sahara will be shut down from 5 PM to midnight for shooting with cast and crew. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-23-Mon-2001/living/15922396.html

MAKE THE CALL – A friend brought to my attention that some of you may prefer talking to a reservations agent instead of booking online. We now have a Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Hotline you can call for questions or to place a hotel reservation at 1-800-666-5268

VEGAS SAFETY TIPS – Howard Schwartz, marketing director for Gambler’s Book Club in Las Vegas, has written what I consider a “must read” for those coming to visit our city. Go to http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/042501.html, print it out, and read it on the plane.

SURVIVOR – Oddsmakers have installed Texas cowboy Colby Donaldson as the favorite to win the $1 million grand prize on the CBS reality-based series “Survivor.” Donaldson is the 3-2 favorite at the Stardust hotel-casino and the 2-1 favorite at the Bally’s and Paris hotel-casinos. The odds are only hypothetical because state law prohibits wagers on events in which the outcome already is known. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/010423/08/ent-colby-donaldson

IF BETTING ON COLLEGE SPORTS IS BANNED – “(Illegal) bookmakers are going to prevail bigger than ever,” ESPN’s Dick Vitale warned. “That will happen behind the scenes like you can’t believe, big time. I sing the praises of those trying to eliminate the problem, but does this create a nightmare of shady guys getting more involved?” Full story at http://www.usatoday.com/usatonline/20010425/3263021s.htm

EASTER IN VEGAS – Villanova student Joelle Jackson wrote a fun and humorous story on what it was like as a Catholic to spend Easter week here in “Sin City.” This funny column is at http://news.excite.com/news/uw/010420/university-216

$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. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm ). 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!

Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Catch A Rising Star (Excalibur) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-13-Fri-2001/weekly/15842623.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

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

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

GOLF RESERVATIONS – http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Cili (Bali Hai Golf Club) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-11-Wed-2001/living/15812253.html

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

Friday – 90 ░F ░F / 64 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 90 ░F ░F / 61 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 88 ░F ░F / 62 ░F Mostly Sunny
Monday – 92 ░F ░F / 64 ░F Mostly Sunny
Tuesday – 94 ░F ░F / 63 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORY: Second City

Celebrating it’s 40’th year, the famed Second City improvisational comedy troupe has expanded to Las Vegas at the Flamingo Hotel. Second City presents comedy revues filled with satire of sex, politics, and religion as well as the improvisational skits.

While never going out of style, improv comedy has seemed to make quite a comeback lately with Drew Carey’s ABC show and the reemergence of Second City’s own SCTV following Conan O’ Brian weeknights late night on NBC. I had only seen improv on TV and it wasn’t really my thing. While attending the show with an open mind, I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy it, and I was pleasantly surprised.

The night started with audience interaction. The troupe asked a gentleman in the crowd his name and what he did for a living then went on do to an improv song totally based on the information they had just learned. This similar segment was done twice during the show and to some pretty funny results.

There were typical “Vegas” bits that seem to be mandatory for any comic act in Las Vegas. “Frank and Bob’s Motel and Casino” was a pretty amusing bit that presented what it would be like if two used car salesmen made their own commercial for a second rate casino. As good humor should do, their jokes about the casino buffet and other “amenities” rang very true to someone who has played and dined at some of the more run down casinos on Boulder Highway and in other parts of town although some of it may have been lost on tourists.

“Leopold and Ray” took a nice dig at the legendary magicians with the tigers that play across the street from the Flamingo. In keeping with the theme of the property, the “magicians” made flamingos vanish all while noting that they were “definitely not gay” and using purposely bad misdirection during the illusions. This piece was one of the many highlights.

“Win, Lose, or Draw” took pot shots at couples, relationships, marriage, and camaraderie between the sexes. Other bits included “Las Vegas Driver Education” where the instructor rates the driver on hell well he can do things like eating, running yellow lights, and finding lost items on the car floor during driving. While all the props are minimal, it is refreshing in Las Vegas to see talented performers shine without the elaborate production used to help prop up many run-of-the-mill shows.

The Las Vegas cast consists of nine total members, rotating five for each show so even with the set bits, you are never going to see exactly the same show twice. They put on a solid 70 minutes and while improv is always at the mercy of the unique factors of audience and performer mood, very few of the bits fell flat. With the reasonable admission price, this is a great “What the hell, let’s check it out” show and you can go home telling friends you have seen the famous Second City troupe.

Second City Ticket Info

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jack Hart wrote:

> My lasting impression of Las Vegas will be the taxi drivers. They are the
> worst in the country. I always thought New York City was the worst until now.
> I got stuck in a cross walk, pushing my 10 month old son, with the light
> changing. They cam speeding at me with horns blowing and yelling profanities.
> I have always received very courteous gestures form motorists out west. I was
> shocked and outraged at this. It happened a couple of times so I know that
> this was not an isolated incident. The city of Las Vegas should prohibit this
> type of behavior by the taxi drivers. They should be fined for blowing horns
> and displaying such an aggressive behavior. Just because they had a green
> light does not justify threatening me with running me and my baby down.

I agree that cursing at you isn’t proper, and I’m not a big fan of our taxi drivers. They don’t always take the shortest route, and they often refuse to take calls to pick up people in the suburbs because shuttling tourists around the Strip is more profitable even though they are legally required to service the entire valley.

However, I’m personally shocked I myself haven’t yet hit a tourist with my car on The Strip, and I’m not driving a cab 12 hours a day. Tourists get relaxed and forget to cross in the crosswalks, with the walk sign, etc., when the cars (taxi’s or otherwise) DO have the right-of-way. I see cabs lay on the horn all the time because people are crossing against the signal. They tend to do this well before they reach the crosswalk and the other alternative is jamming on their brakes in the middle of busy traffic and creating wreck after wreck.

The Strip isn’t Disneyland, but a very busy road. I encourage everyone to play it safe and not cross against the light (or better yet, use the pedestrian bridges when possible). If the “don’t walk” sign has even started to flash, the average person probably won’t make it across, especially on The Strip where you are crossing 7-8 lane widths. Trust me: that casino across the street is still going to be open when you get there, and we want you to stay happy and healthy for many return visits to our city!

Tom Beaven of Garden City, Michigan wrote:

> A few years ago, we were in Vegas over the 4’th of July. We stayed at
> Binion’s Horseshoe downtown. This was before they built the canopy for the
> light show. There was a brief, but major display across the street at the
> Golden Nugget. We could see it from our room.
> But what we really enjoyed was spending some time in the evening on the
> roof (by the Shoe’s pool) and watching fireworks displays pop up here and
> there all over the valley.
> I’m sure the same could be seen from any high building downtown or on the
> strip.

Mary from Texas wrote:

>Will be visiting Las Vegas again in May. Want a great meal
>with a great view of Las Vegas. What do you suggest —
>Top of the Tower, Horseshoe Steak House?

You can’t go wrong with either of those or Voodoo at Rio. Binion’s is a little more “down home” although all of them will set you back a few bucks.

Top of the Stratosphere is elegant with a view not for those squirmy of heights, Voodoo is very nice but a little more modern / funky, and Binion’s is a straight-ahead steakhouse. All three respectively have great views of The Strip. Binion’s menu is traditional while the other two have more modern culinary variety. The only one we have published a review of so far is Binion’s at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-06-14.htm Our poll this week at http://www.accessvegas.com asks “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?”

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ONLINE POLL – “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

Results from last poll: “Are you rethinking your Las Vegas vacation plans in light of the economy?”

Vegas is Vegas — I’ll cut back somewhere else in life if I have to. 47%
I’m going to visit just as often, but cutting back (cheaper room, less entertainment or gambling). 23%
I’ll be visiting less often. 19%
I’m actually skipping a planned trip. 9%

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