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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 25, 2008

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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.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The ONLY July 4’th fireworks on The Strip appears to be at Mandalay Bay this year following a performance by the band Vertical Horizon at about 10:30 PM. Since they will occur over Mandalay Beach, best bet to see them is somewhere south of the hotel (down by the Welcome to Las Vegas sign). No word on displays from The Stratosphere or Hilton (who have traditionally done a show).

Bad Move. Whenever July 4 falls on a Friday or Saturday night, the LVCVA (Visitors Authority) should spend a couple hundred thousand shooting off fireworks from selected casinos (a la New Years Eve). Station Casinos is doing such with their own private money at a number of their local casinos just for locals. Go figure!

Fireworks will be happening all over most of the Las Vegas Valley (way out in those suburbs). My advice? There will be fireworks in Henderson (Southeast), Anthem (South) and a bunch in the Northeast part of town. If you are on a higher floor with a view in those directions, you should be able to see various displays between about 9 – 10:45 PM.

Elvis is close to getting a star on the Las Vegas Strip if the local Viva Las Vegas Club can finish raising the needed cash. (The stars themselves or their fan clubs must fund the placement). They are only $2000 short according to local columnist Norm Clarke. More info on the effort and how to contribute at http://www.astarforelvis.com

We found some great photos from a couple of months ago that never made it up. If you are between Las Vegas visits (and a little longer between visits than you’d like to be because of the U.S. economy or you simply can’t make it here soon), these should help keep you going!

Las Vegas Strip including Wynn Las Vegas construction, the site of Frontier implosion (future Echelon Place, construction on the Mirage volcano and some surprises:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

We’ve also added new photos to our Stratosphere Tower Las Vegas section:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

Click on both of the above photos to enjoy their respective photo sets. We have some amazing brand new photos coming over the next few weeks!

Southwest Airlines is bucking the trend by maintaining their level of service to Las Vegas! They are bucking the trend of airline service cuts (especially to tourist markets) and will continue their strong presence here. Because they are profitable, Southwest has a history of picking up the ball when other airlines have to cut service. This is great news U.S. residents who are missing Las Vegas! Keeping the level of air service here helps mute continued airfare increases.

Now if the casino bean counters would get their heads out of their hindquarters and realize that Las Vegas was built for decades on loose slots, cheap rooms and cold (frequent) beverage service. They think “tighter slots equal more revenue” when the reality is “tighter slots drive people away from playing.”

Speaking of… I think one of our readers got a letter to the editor of our local paper published. Mary Huber of Archibold, Ohio wrote the letter Soaking Tourists (click the link and scroll down to that letter).

The MTV awards are headed back to Los Angeles after playing The Palms last year (the show that an infamously pudgy and “out of it” Britney Spears opened, seemingly sinking what was left of her career). No word on why the move, although the awards have generally rotated between New York and Miami.

Tropicana is advertising “A Real Pool Party For Real People” with DJ’s, live entertainment, dancing, and food/drink specials from Noon until 11 PM (evidently daily) at their pool. I’m guessing this is a pool event where you it is OK to NOT dress and act like the latest “in trouble” celebrity.

Jay Leno raised around $200,000 during his two benefit shows (mentioned last issue) for Iowa flood victims. ALL proceeds went to those affected as The Mirage donated the room. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to not just those in Iowa but all affected by these weeks of Midwest weather and flooding related disasters.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To Your Favorite Event!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Dave Matthews Band, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Jonas Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Kenny Chesney, Elton John, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, Rush, Chris Rock, 3 Doors Down, ColdPlay, Janet Jackson, Van Morrison, Carrie Underwood, Nine Inch Nails, Maroon 5, Trace Adkins, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Blue Man Group Las Vegas – A Show With No Rules

by Mark Marino

Before any performers take the stage at the Blue Man Group Theatre, there is a looming sense that this kind of show can go anywhere at anytime. Even the theater itself is shell of mystery waiting to come to life. After some mood lifting jokes grab the audiences’ attention, the pulse of the room is jolted with masterful live drums. The first real glimpse of the Blue Man Group in the spotlight brings the audience into their funky universe of light, humor and music. The front few rows might feel the drums raining in their laps as each hit triggers both a sound and a splash of bright colorful liquid. A theme of messy fun makes itself known here whenever possible.

The show is consistently funny, but there is a great wealth of entertainment in Blue Man’s grip of the unexpected. The Blue Men introduce their talent of weaving together rhythms of both music and comedy with lively finesse. It isn’t long into this show that the audience is bracing for the next act with equal parts laughter and exhilaration.

Click to Read Entire Blue Man Group Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Gordie Brown – A Las Vegas Evening With A Lifetime Of Celebs

by Erika Bayer-Polak

If you are looking for a lively fast-paced show filled with music, comedy and impersonations, Gordie Brown is a sure bet for an enjoyable evening. And even though his show is at 10 p.m., he keeps his act rather clean by late show standards. Unless you are an austere puritan, walking away from this show offended is impossible.

Brown manages to seamlessly morph his solid voice to correspond to a wide variety of performers, from Chris Isaak to Roy Orbison, from Willie Nelson to Tracy Chapman, from M.C. Hammer to 4 Non Blondes. Brown also seems to make a point in impersonating performers who had their heydays in the 1950s to performers who are presently at the top of their game. Covering such an assortment of acts is certainly a sure way to appease all generations in the audience.

Click to Read Entire Gordie Brown Las Vegas Review…

The National Hockey League (NHL) Returns To Las Vegas As The Los Angeles Kings Face The Colorado Avalanche In “Frozen Fury XI” At MGM Grand Saturday, September 27 – The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Los Angeles Kings return to Las Vegas for “Frozen Fury XI” when they host an NHL pre-season game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Sept. 27 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. (Tickets) Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m. “Frozen Fury XI” plans to feature a line-up of NHL all-star players from both rosters including Kings players Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Jack Johnson. Avalanche all-stars scheduled to appear include Paul Stastny and Ryan Smyth. Click to Read The Full Story …

Criss Angel Believe – A New Show By Cirque du Soleil At Luxor – Tickets on sale for preview and regular performances of CRISS ANGEL Believe, the new Cirque du Soleil production set to open at Luxor Las Vegas. CRISS ANGEL Believe starring Criss Angel will open for preview performances September 1 and hold its Gala Premiere September 12, 2008. Criss Angel is recognized as one of the most provocative artists in the world today. In an attempt to pay homage to the late/great Harry Houdini, Criss chose “Believe” as the title for this unprecedented live experience. Click to Read The Full Story …

Unwind With An Unbelievable Happy Hour On The Patio At Dick’s Last Resort – The Strip’s Most Outrageous Outpost Offers Daily Happy Hour – As summer sets in and the temperature in Las Vegas heats up, The Strip’s wackiest watering hole, Dick’s Last Resort, celebrates the season with a spectacular new Happy Hour. From 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily, Dick’s invites guests to its Strip-side patio to enjoy all-you-can-drink Bud Light drafts for $20. Dick’s patio features a full-service bar, flat screen TVs and misters to keep cool while kicking back and catching all the action of the Las Vegas Strip. Famous for its deliciously messy cuisine, zany decor, rowdy wait staff, live music and let-loose atmosphere, Dick’s Last Resort provides a new level of fun in the city known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” Come get your kicks at Dick’s!

World Poker Tour« Returns To Bellagio For Bellagio Cup IV July 2-17 – The World Poker Tour« (WPT) kicks off Season VII next month when it returns to Bellagio July 2-17 for Bellagio Cup IV. The two-week event begins Wednesday, July 2 and consists of seven no limit hold ’em tournaments ranging from $2,000-$5,000, along with seven, $1,500 super satellite no limit hold ’em events. The WPT main event, which requires an entry fee of $15,000, begins Friday, July 11 with the final table scheduled for Thursday, July 17. The WPT main event champion will receive the first place prize money as well as a $25,000 seat in the April 2009 WPT World Championship at Bellagio. Click to Read The Full Story …

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $31, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $49, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

This section will return next issue. Because of new software installs that will bring major improvements to AccessVegas.com and our sister sites in the next few weeks, I’m running behind this week.

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

  • 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!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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:

  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21

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 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 25, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 21, 2007

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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.

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! Wow, wow, wow… what a past 10 days here in Las Vegas. NASCAR blazed into town with record crowds (unlike the NBA All-Star game, NASCAR produced no shootings or significant arrests) followed by The Stardust going BOOM! The entire week saw highs brushing 90 F and March Madness combined with St. Patrick’s Day and Spring Break to make it one of the most crazy weekends of the year.

Add in the locals celebrating UNLV making the NCAA Basketball Tournament Sweet 16 (who needs the NBA), two more weeks of basketball March Madness, pool weather kicking in and Las Vegas is the only place to be! (Did it snow somewhere last weekend? We don’t shovel snow here).

Maverick Helicopter Tours In The News – Our friends at Maverick Helicopter Tours were recently featured in the local news article Why crawl when you can fly? about all the celebrities, high rollers, and even race drivers that they take care of on NASCAR race days. However, you don’t have to be a celeb or high roller to enjoy their memorable, top-quality tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon (including some that actually land in the bottom of the Canyon)! They also have amazing, beautiful night flights over the Las Vegas Strip.

Cirque du Soleil and Luxor executives are announcing details of a new production set to open at Luxor Las Vegas in 2008. I’m taking a wild guess that it involves magic and Chris Angel, but every once in a while, Las Vegas throws a curve. We’ll have details next issue!

Don’t Get Lost In Vegas – So many people tell me that they do rent a car when they come to town so they can travel at their own whim (valet parking is free at all Las Vegas hotels, and cab fares add up). They also tell me they would like to venture off The Strip a bit, perhaps check out some of the “local’s casinos” they keep hearing about, but are not real fond of driving in an unfamiliar city. If you rent from Enterprise, they are offering our readers 50% OFF GPS Navigation unit rentals at airport locations at Enterprise.com (Valid until May 31, 2007)

Enjoy This Issue!

Stardust Implosion Stories:

Dragon Boat Races At Lake Las Vegas Resort Offer Interactive Cultural Entertainment – Lake Las Vegas Resort and Facility Marketing Group Inc. invite teams to participate in Dragon Boat Races: a unique, interactive sporting and cultural event on May 4 and 5. Bringing to life ancient Chinese traditions, community gathering and celebration, the Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Las Vegas pits more than 25 teams against each other in a high-energy competition on the lake. The Las Vegas community is encouraged to join in the outdoor adventures by collecting a team of at least 16 members for a chance to win fabulous prizes and raise money for the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation. Click to Read The Full Story …

Cutting-Edge Ways to Turn Back the Clock – America may have just leapt one hour forward, but new spa advances offer innovative ways to turn back the hands of time. Rejuvenating jewels? Wine for well-being? Learn how the key to unlocking a whole new you may be one inventive spa experience away:

  • Toast Your Health at Nurture — The Spa at Luxor One of the hottest spa trends can now be found at Nurture — The Spa at Luxor. Vinotherapy uses the powerful anti-oxidant qualities of wine to firm the skin and slow aging. Nurture captures this healing essence in its popular Escape to Sonoma treatment. The indulgent experience begins with a relaxing full-body, grapeseed oil massage. Next, a sea salt scrub combined with crushed grape seeds exfoliates the skin before a wine body wrap restores much-needed moisture. This revitalizing 80-minute treatment is priced at $200. Luxor Las Vegas Info and Reservations
  • Spa Monte Carlo Offers Sparkling New Service – Spa Monte Carlo is harnessing the healing power of one of the world’s most beautiful jewels. The Royal Aquamarine Formula Micro-Dermabrasion treatment uses pulverized aquamarine gemstones to attain smooth, supple skin without the discomfort and high cost of other micro-dermabrasion procedures. Said to possess life-giving powers, aquamarine gems provide a gentle way to achieve radiant skin. This 50-minute treatment is priced at $185. Monte Carlo Las Vegas Info and Reservations

Another Award For A Hilton Restaurant – The Cuisine Club of Las Vegas has presented “The Award of Excellence” to Andiamo at the Las Vegas Hilton. Valentina Columbo, Chef de Cuisine of the club, made the presentation following a dinner by club members at the restaurant. Andiamo, which just celebrated its 20-year anniversary, now sports a new name: Casa Nicola. It features an enhanced menu and will continue featuring authentic flavors of Italy.

Gambling Talk: Poker Theory vs. Reality — Part One – with Victor H. Royer. In order to become good at any kind of game, poker included, it is not only necessary to learn the required rules of the game itself, but it helps if you also learn the game theory behind your game of choice, or perhaps the general game theory as that may apply to such relevant game concepts. Game theory itself is a universal concept that spans and transcends the human animal’s instinctive and innate propensity to engage in such activities, which we as sentient human beings tend to describe as “playing”, or “games”. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Clarion Hotel & Suites Emerald Springs – Best kept secret in Las Vegas. Complimentary limo or shuttle to and from McCarran International Airport. Complimentary limo or shuttle service to MGM Grand and Flamingo, Las Vegas Convention Center and Sands Expo. All rooms include coffeemakers, hairdryers, and irons/ironing boards. Suites with micros. 24-hour pool, spa and fitness center. Located only 3 blocks from the Las Vegas Strip. Business services available.

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week: El Cortez Hotel and Casino – Having just undergone $18 million in renovations and new management, The El Cortez Hotel and Casino is quaint and cozy, amidst the hustle and bustle downtown Las Vegas. The hotel features ADA approved rooms as well as non-smoking rooms upon request. All accommodations are equipped with the latest in convenience and up-to-date amenities. Each guest room is tastefully appointed and spacious.

  • Click To View El Cortez Hotel and Casino: Broadband (only)

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Submitted Photo – Susan Muszynski submitted this great photo of Venetian Las Vegas taken from The Mirage across the street:

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. Click to more Photos of Venetian Las Vegas.

Dear Ted,Visit 15 now over and back in NE England and reality. Still I returned with a gambling profit of $24 so I’m pleased. Saw some shows again and highlight was The Scintas @ The Sahara. Ultra-talented family + one group with truly excellent comedy and impressions and Chrissi Scinta has got one of the nicest singing voices in the USA. Joey and Frankie Scinta are two of the funniest around and Pete O’Donnell compliments with classy percussion.I recommend anyone who may be feeling down to see this show because the Scintas will lift you up as it did me. Next time in LV may be 2008 but The Scintas are my no.1.

On a down side – too many condos getting built on and around the Strip, before long there’ll be no room for new casino/hotels.

Keep up the good work Ted!

All the best from Owen (NE England)

Ted Responds:

I first enjoyed The Scintas when the started here at The Hilton, and have been thrilled to see them moving on to big crowds at The Rio and finally their long dreamed spot on The Strip at The Sahara. This is old school fun and variety done modern Vegas and I’ve never talked to anyone who attended that was disappointed. Here’s some Scintas info for everyone to enjoy for themselves:

Hi,I am retiring from my job after 20 yrs May 31st and my husband is bringing me to Las Vegas for our anniversary June 7th. I want so much to go see ‘O’, where can I find the cheapest tickets without being in the nosebleed section? Any help will be greatly appreciated.Mrs. Adams

Ted Responds:

Congratulations on your retirement! Unfortunately, there are no “cheapest tickets” as Cirque du Soleil’s O is one of the most in-demand shows in Las Vegas.

For any shows that someone really wants to see, we suggest purchasing tickets as far in advance as possible. Do keep in mind that some shows don’t release tickets more than 3-6 months in advance.

Also, given that the “good seats” are first come, first served (the farther ahead you book, the better your seats will be), anyone desiring the best seats possible for a show should book in advance. Even if some tickets for a show are still available the day of the show, you’ll much more likely to be in the last (worst) seats by booking last minute.

If you have further questions or want help deciding, please call our reservations agents at 800-696-5721.

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!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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:

  • 2007

  • March Madness (NCAA Basketball Playoffs)March 22-25, Final Four March 31-April 2
  • Victoria Day (Canada) May 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 26-28 (3 day weekend)
  • Mothers Day May 13
  • 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.

March 21, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 08, 2006

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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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This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com and can only be signed up for there. We do not buy or rent lists, and this information is only for our members and guests. If you feel you have received it in error, click the unsubscribe link at the bottom. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

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.

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.

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)
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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.

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More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

The Closing of the Stardust Stories

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:

  • 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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November 8, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

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