Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 5, 2003

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that you really care about.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to allvegastv@aol.com

Shows | Headliners | Tours | Dining | Golf | Rental Cars | Airfare | Packages

Print Out This Number! – Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 x143 to book all hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining reservations. Bring number to Las Vegas for last minute reservations too! (New reservations only. Existing reservations use contact information given when reserving. Online room deals must be booked online).

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

Hello from Las Vegas! A strong wind blew through town Sunday morning blowing our warm weather somewhere else. Low to mid 50’s this week. Hey … we don’t have lake effect snow! Curious about our monthly average temperatures? Check out our Weather FAQ.

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Megabucks – The second-largest slot jackpot in gaming history is still up for grabs at 158 Nevada casinos. The current jackpot is over $30,000,000 and continues to increase. The only slot jackpot total larger than this is the world-record $34.9 million Megabucks jackpot that was hit at the Desert Inn on the Las Vegas Strip in January 2000. Read More

Valentine’s Day With Tony and Tina’s Wedding – On February 14, 2003 the Rio All-Suite Hotel is offering free admission to brides and grooms with Valentine’s Day wedding licenses to “Tony ‘n’ Tina’s Wedding,” the second longest running show in Off-Broadway history. Read More

Playboy Playmates Promote Playmate Slots – On Saturday, February 22, from 6-7:30 p.m., Imperial Palace will host September 1998 Playmate Vanessa Gleason and January 1996 Playmate Victoria Fuller as they sign autographs and hand out limited edition Playboy Slots T-shirts to guests who play the new Playboy Slots! Read More

Temptations, Celine Join Legends – Two new acts have joined Legends In Concert:

The five performers that make up TRIBUTE have almost 100 years of entertainment experience among them, including working collectively or individually with the likes of The Jackson Five, James Brown, Lou Rawls, The O’Jays and the Indigos. Read More

She is on “top of the world” now! Brigitte Valdez brings her amazing Celine Dion tribute center-“Strip,” joining the world-famous “Legends In Concert” multi-million-dollar live celebrity spectacular at Imperial Palace Las Vegas. Read More

Craftsteak Honored With Epicurean Award – Craftsteak, MGM Grand’s newest restaurant, was named “Best New Restaurant” in Las Vegas at the 2003 Epicurean Awards. This is the second consecutive year that an MGM Grand restaurant was bestowed this honor. NOBHILL received the same award in 2002 proving MGM Grand has established itself as a formidable dining destination. Read More

Hypnotist Terry Stokes – You may have seen him at the Calgary Stampede, State Fairs, or other venues all over the world. We saw him last night, and while our review won’t run for a few weeks, this is one show worth taking the 5 minute walk off The Strip to the Bourbon St. Hotel to go see. Read More

CCSN’s 8th Annual Wine Tasting – Wine, Spirits, non-alcoholic specialty drinks served in souvenir glasses and a cornucopia of hors d’oeuvres will be presented, and featured artists’ work will be displayed. Live Jazz by Woody Woods Quartet. Silent auction gifts include round trip airline tickets for two, shows, dinners, and golfing at major golf courses in the Las Vegas area, and vacation packages. Read More

Las Vegas Commerce – If you live here and do any kind of internet related business (or your business sells online), let me urge you to join the Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce. No cost, and a great opportunity to network with others in Las Vegas who actually know how to turn on a computer.

Subscription “Dues” – This newsletter is absolutely free! We enjoy bringing you great Las Vegas information. If you enjoy our newsletter, we ask two small things: Consider booking your hotels, showstours, and golf through AccessVegas.Com or the links in this newsletter. We have great rates and fantastic selection in every category. Also, turn your friends on to Las Vegas by suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.

Featured Review: Sixtiesmania Rocks The Castaways

By David Berman
dberman@concentric.net

Every decade can be characterized by the music of the era, music that we often feel nostalgia for because of the events in our lives at the times specific tunes were popular. And few decades were as rich as the 1960s. You could start and end with The Beatles, of course, and that would almost be enough to make the æ60s unforgettable.

But there were many others who burst upon the scene to enrich the lives of those who lived through the decade, including The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, and so many others whose “greatest hits” still resonate today.

A group called Sixtiesmania, currently performing in The CastawaysÆ Windjammer Lounge, exploits and celebrates the music of the æ60s in a way that is building audiences so fast that many nights are standing-room only.

Sixtiesmania is not just a band; it is a SHOWBAND presenting a two-and-a-half-hour review that spans the decade through the use of multimedia, dancing, many costume changes, near-perfect impressions of legendary performers, and excellent musicianship which does not rely on lip-synching or recorded soundtracks. Read More

Featured Tour: Hoover Dam Tour (Suburban or Jeep)

Hoover Dam Tour (Suburban or Jeep) – This tour offers ample time for exploring this National Historic Landmark and engineering wonder of the world. See live presentations, a fascinating film on the Dam’s construction and history, exhibit gallery, observation deck, and venture down to the observation room in the power plant to view the massive generators.

Additional Tours Including Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, City, Scenic, National Parks, and Adventure

Featured Golf Course:
Desert Rose Golf Course

Desert Rose Golf Course – Desert Rose offers an alternative to the higher green fees of the Las Vegas’ premiere resort golf courses. Located 15 minutes from the Las Vegas Boulevard, Desert Rose is easily accessible and will satisfy your golfing needs. Designed by Joe Lee and Dick Wilson, who also designed Doral, the course annually hosts the Clark County Amateur. Palm trees, water hazards and bunkers decorate the course.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations

For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter please post to our message boards so that others may read and help or write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. Include your city — we have readers worldwide!

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor
http://www.accessvegas.com

Registering for the boards is simple. Plus, it has a side benefit: When you return, you can click one place and get a customized list of all new threads, posts, and news releases right at your fingertips. We don’t put you on a list or send you unwanted info. Simply go to the boards and click on the “Register” button on the upper right hand side.

New to the list? Click Here for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000! Click Here To Win

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
February 5, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

We are “reprint friendly” to other websites and newsletters — please do ask if you would like to use our news, reviews, or contents from our websites. All material in this message is protected by US Federal Copyright law. All Rights Reserved.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 29, 2003

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that you really care about.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to allvegastv@aol.com

Shows | Headliners | Tours | Dining | Golf | Rental Cars | Airfare | Packages

Print Out This Number! – A great new service for readers: Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining reservations. Bring number to Vegas for last minute reservations too! (New reservations only. Existing reservations use contact information given when reserving. Online room deals must be booked online).

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

Hello from Las Vegas! We’ve continued to have beautiful days around 70 (F) but I won’t rub it in. (Our) spring is a great time to be in Las Vegas.

Missing Newsletters? – We are aware that some of you aren’t getting all of our newsletters. We are stuck with a problem. Words like (read backwards) ONISAC, Las Vegas PIRTS, GNILBMAG, and other words related to our fine city are also words that many spam filters stop.

Solutions: If you use use your internet service’s email filter, you can turn it down a notch. If you use a free email with an automatic filter, you can subscribe under your regular email address.

A more simple solution might be to use our own Vegas Mail free email. It won’t block our newsletter, and it will send your regular email a note (if you wish) letting you know when you have mail on your Vegas Mail account. Plus, spammers don’t seem to bug us. They go after the big email systems, nor ours. I use Vegas Mail as my main personal (non-business) email address and love it!


Riviera Valentine’s Day Package – Two nights deluxe accommodations, romantic gourmet dinner for two February 14th at Kristofer’s Steak House or Ristorante Italiano at the Riviera , and the sexy Splash show all included! This special package is the perfect romantic getaway with all the excitement of Las Vegas.


Reader Feedback

Joe La Banca wrote:

This is the best site I have found for Las Vegas Wallpaper and Screensavers. Las Vegas is my town and plan to move there this year. Keep up the good work.

We are proud of our Photos/Wallpaper/Screensavers section! We have more Las Vegas photos than any other site, as well as some great wallpaper and screensavers to bring Las Vegas to you. As always, no fee or registration. Enjoy!

T Walker wrote:

Your tipping guide was incredibly helpful on our recent trip to Vegas. We were prepared to tip the front desk clerk, but we were satisfied with the room we received. We did tip the maitre d’ at a show with general admission seating (and a full house) and got a great seat. (We didn’t see anyone else tipping, and they all were shuttled to the outer tables.) Your advice on tipping the maid daily is something we will do in every city from now on.

Glad we could help! We invite everybody to enjoy our Tipping Guide which also has links to many other Frequently Asked Questions about Las Vegas.

Message Board Member “ralfrick” wrote:

Stayed Nov. 22-29 at the Jockey Club: the wife (51), the boy (7) and myself (41).

He went on to write a great trip report detailing more activities, thrill rides, buffets, and shows that most people hit in 3-4 visits and well worth the read. View this and other trip reports, or better yet tell us about your last Las Vegas visit on our Las Vegas Travel > Trip Reports board. A great way to get advice and help others who love to visit Las Vegas!

Also, if you feel Las Vegas is a great place for kids, or that people should never bring their kids here, contribute to our ongoing Kids In Las Vegas board.

Message Board Member “justguy47” wrote:

I will be in Vegas Feb. 2 at the Imperial Palace. I am wondering what tower of rooms should I ask for. Which one has the newer rooms , or are all the rooms about the same. I am a new member and thanks for your insight.

We know many of our readers love the great location and modest rates of Imperial Palace. Help him out with your room suggestions on our Las Vegas Strip Hotels board.

Message Board Member “MAMACETA39” wrote:

Hi everyone, I have a quick question, I am going to Vegas in February and was wondering if anyone has every used the $20.00 trick at Circus Circus or Fitzgerald’s and if so how do I go about it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. This is my second time to Vegas and I will be there for five days this time and just want a bigger room for my duration.

The $20 Trick she refers to is a way to tip the desk clerk for the possibility of a better room, room with a view, etc. Details are available at our Tipping Guide. Have you tried the $20 room tip? Did it work or fail? What kind of upgrade did you get? Let us know in our Travel Questions/Trip Suggestions forums!

Message Board Member “UKali” wrote:

My boyfriend and I are visiting Vegas this September. It’s a holiday of a lifetime for us and I doubt we’d ever do it again as we are from England and its quite an expensive holiday (sorry vacation I forgot!). We intend to make this one a BIG one! We are saving our money up (staying for 2 weeks!!!) and want to try and plan our stay. We want to do all the best things and go to the best places.

Obviously I don’t expect anyone to plan our entire trip, but we don’t want to travel all that way and then miss things we should have done. We went to Florida in year 2000 and this happened. There is nothing worse than coming home and meeting someone who has been there and they say ‘didn’t you go to this place or that place???’.

“UKali” is smart to plan ahead. Las Vegas has so much to do and see and most know that overwhelming feeling of “did we do and see the interesting things”? Help her out by letting her know what attractions you feel are a “must see” or which you would never go back to on our Travel Questions/Trip Suggestions.

Message Board Member “Vern” wrote:

I always rent a car. I find the rates cheaper than taking a cab. Just having the freedom to go where and when you want is worth the effort, rather than confining yourself to a small area, and then having to rely on expensive cabs just go a few miles. It is very easy to get around Las Vegas if you get to know the roads that run parallel to the strip. Just stay off the strip while driving.

We’ve already had great input on our Getting Around Town > Renting a Car forum, including experiences with various rental car companies. If you have rented a car in Las Vegas, help share your experiences. If you are looking to rent a car on your next trip, check out our Low Rate Rental Car Search and check out the board for more advice.

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor
http://www.accessvegas.com

For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter please post to our message boards so that others may read and help or write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. Include your city — we have readers worldwide!

Registering for the boards is free and simple. Plus, it has a side benefit: When you return, you can click one place and get a customized list of all new threads, posts, and news releases right at your fingertips. We don’t put you on a list or send you unwanted info. Simply go to the boards and click on the “Register” button on the upper right hand side.

New to the list? Click Here for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000! Click Here To Win

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
January 29, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

All material in this message is protected by US Federal Copyright law. All Rights Reserved.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 22, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 80 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 monthly newsletter is free and supported by commissions from sales of hotel rooms, rental cars, and other travel services we offer. Your bookings using the following links support this effort.

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
* Low Airfare: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air): http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Discount Room Hotline: 1-888-254-0637 (Give Promo Code 4558 when calling)

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others in its entirety. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto below

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



NEWKIRK’S NOTES – comments on Las Vegas and travel from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Thanks to those of you who noticed I was missing the past few weeks. It’s been crazy, and I have a couple of VERY exciting things to tell you about.

First, we’ve launched All Vegas TV! Now you can go to http://tv.accessvegas.com and SEE Las Vegas anywhere in the world you can get online. Our February 2002 show features Guggenheim — Art of the Motorcycle (at The Venetian), a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour video, and the uncut version of Las Vegas New Year’s Eve 2001 fireworks show. Future episodes include a Wolfgang Puck interview, a wedding chapel feature (with a big giveaway … stay tuned for that one), and much more. Enjoy!

New Year’s Eve was incredible! 265,000 people packed the Strip to watch $500,000 worth of fireworks like up the sky non-stop for a full seven minutes. The fireworks were shot off from all four miles of the Strip, so there wasn’t a bad view anywhere! With all due respect to New York City for what they have been through, let’s do a little comparison:

Weather at midnight:

New York City: 24 degrees
Las Vegas: 42 degrees

Waiting factor:

New York City: Reports of people arriving 18 hours early to get a decent spot.
Las Vegas: I parked my car on the street 2 blocks from the Strip at 6 PM. (No … I’m not giving that spot away, LOL). Not one of the 265,000 people had a bad spot for fireworks viewing.

Party Factor:

New York City: Zero alcohol tolerance
Las Vegas: They were selling half gallon buckets (I kid you not) of beer right on the street. As long as it was in plastic, drink up!

Don’t take my word for the above — go view our New Year’s Eve bonus footage at http://tv.accessvegas.com/videos/attractions/index.htm#nye-2001 (not part of this month’s regular program). We’ll see you next year here in Las Vegas!

Valentine’s Day falls on a Thursday this year. If you are looking to whisk that special lady away to Las Vegas for the weekend, I’d book ASAP as hotels are filling up quickly. Check our rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm — our hotel partners buy rooms in bulk, in advance and thus can usually offer a better deal than contacting the hotel directly.

Congratulations to Rick Thomas on receiving the Academy of Magical Arts “Magician of the Year” award. Rick’s afternoon show at the Tropicana is value-priced but well worth seeing. My review and ticket info at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/rick-thomas-magic-las-vegas-shows.htm

“Vegas Showgirls: Nearly Famous” is the new series on E! Entertainment Television (cable network) which follows four showgirls and two males through their daily lives both on and off the stage. Airing Monday night, check local listings for time.

We saw the new show Tease playing at Blue Note Showroom (Aladdin) and it was a lot of fun. It’s a very sexy musical comedy centered on the lives of dancers and other employees at a fictional strip club. There is enough jiggle for the guys (the show is just shy of topless — pasties are used), enough hunky actors for the ladies, and comedy that both will enjoy. Check ticket availability and prices at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&showid=334 Well worth seeing!

Driving here from both Southern California and Phoenix is going to get easier over the next couple of years! Interstate 15 is being widened to 3 lanes (each way) all the way to the NV / CA border, and Nevada is working with California to expedite lane expansion on other parts of the route.

Those coming from Phoenix can celebrate: Right now, much of the drive is two lane road plus the long, winding path over Hoover Dam. Over the next two years, 50 miles of US 93 is being widened to 5 lanes, and straightened to accommodate a 65 mile per hour speed. 2005 will see the completion of the Hoover Dam bypass, a 4 lane road and bridge over the Colorado south of the dam.

Citizens Area Transit (CAT) Las Vegas bus system is offering service to from the Las Vegas Strip to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for NASCAR races this year. Full details at http://www.rtc.co.clark.nv.us/cat/special/racepass-2.htm (Yes, the info is current — in the first paragraph, they mistakenly noted the dates from last year).

The cab drivers are still screwing you over. Despite a court order not to divert you (hard sell you a destination other than your own, or take you the “long way”), they keep doing it. Why my beef with the cabbies? Twice (out of 4 rides in the resort corridor) in the past two years I have personally been taken a longer way when traffic and the time of day didn’t warrant it. Not even close.

Review-Journal “Road Warrior” Michael Squires did a recent undercover story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jan-20-Sun-2002/news/17906018.html As usual, my advice is to rent a car. The price of a few cab rides (especially ones that take the “long way”) will easily cover your rental, and you can go where you want on a whim.

Las Vegas is a hotbed of magic, and prominent local magicians Denny Haney and the husband/wife team Scott and Jenny Alexander have opened Denny and Lee Magic studios. Visit them in Las Vegas at 5115 S. Industrial #104 or online at http://www.dennymagic.com

A quick tip of the hat to an acquaintance of mine, Larry Ahrens. Much of New Mexico has woken up to him on top-rated KKOB 770 AM for two decades, and he’s tossing his hat into the ring for governor. More info at http://www.votelarry.com

Free beach screensaver! It’s my pleasure to tell you about a comprehensive site I just completed for one of my favorite tourism destinations: Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you think of South Beach, Palm Beach, Tampa or other crowded, high-priced areas when someone says Florida, visit http://www.beautifuldestin.com and get aquatinted with the Florida that is closer, less expensive, more beautiful, and less crowded. We have information, photos, and streaming videos. The free beach screensaver at http://www.beautifuldestin.com/free-streaming-videos-screensaver.htm


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, INFO, and SPECIALS:

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for January / February:

* Sahara — from $35.95 until 02/28/02
* Palms Casino Resort — from $59.95 until 02/28/02
* Fiesta Rancho Hotel Casino — from $29.95 until 02/28/02

All of these and more available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

CONDO SPECIALS – Driving in or renting a car, enjoy the luxury of a condo at prices that rival a hotel room:

Westgate Flamingo Bay features over 200 villas in a lush tropical oasis style complex. You’ll be only minutes from the world famous Las Vegas Strip. While on site, you’ll enjoy soaking in the hot tub or taking a swim in the outdoor pool. For your convenience laundry facilities are available on site.

Special Internet pricing and accommodation info for Westgate Flamingo Bay at http://www.accessvegas.com/condo-specials.htm

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

PREFER NOT TO FLY – and Vegas is too far to drive but you still want to visit a REAL gaming destination? We offer the same great discounts, guaranteed lower rates, and the $100 Rebate Spectacular for rooms in Atlantic City, Gulfport / Biloxi, and Reno as we do in Las Vegas!

* Atlantic City: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=ACY
* Gulfport / Biloxi: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=BIL
* Reno: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&Dest=RNO

$100 HOTEL COUPON! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you a coupon for up to $100 back on any hotel stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Full details at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm


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 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

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

* SHOW REVIEWS – Read our unbiased, archived show reviews at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com

* 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 lock up 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

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

Your best hotel deals are the weeks when convention traffic is light. If you are flexible, check our convention calendar at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-conventions-hotels.htm before choosing the dates of your Las Vegas visit!

GIVEAWAY:

McCormick and Schmick’s — We have a $50 gift certificate to give away for this spectacular seafood house, located just a few blocks from the Strip on Restaurant Row (Flamingo and Paradise). Entry information in the February 2002 All Vegas TV show at http://tv.accessvegas.com

FEEDBACK:

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 We do certainly read them all. They help shape our content and we do personally answer specific Las Vegas related questions!

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Have a request for a review? Confused 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 the “articles” are tied in with paid ads, our sites give you the honest scoop.

If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us using the travel links listed at the top of each issue. 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!

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
January 22, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 21, 2001

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

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake 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 mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Clint Holmes

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


 


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HITCHED ON VALENTINE’S DAY – As usual, Las Vegas was a very hot destination for Valentine’s Day. Couples pulled up in pickup trucks, 18 Wheelers, and limos. Some were planned, some were spur-of-the-moment. Philadelphia Inquirer staff writer Nita Lelyveld chronicled some of the more interesting ones at http://inq.philly.com/content/inquirer/2001/02/15/national/WED15.htm

VOTE FOR THE BEST – The Review-Journal is accepting votes in their online Best of Las Vegas 2001 poll at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/bestoflv/2001 Tens of thousands read these online results throughout the course of the year, and they let you vote for the worst as well as the best.

LATIN DANCE – clubs and nights have been all the rage the past couple of years, and Las Vegas has been no exception with Club Rio and Rumjumgle leading the way. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-20-Tue-2001/living/15420979.html

BAD INTERSECTIONS – Once again this year, the worst intersections for traffic wrecks are on The Strip. Tropicana and LV Blvd. (The Strip) was the worst, with Flamingo and LV Blvd. coming in second. The scenery is distracting, but keeping your eyes on the road and using your turn signal might just prevent you from driving home (or turning in your rental car) with a big dent in it.

CELEBRITY CHEF – Well-known local chef Les Kincaid’s 1.5 hour weekly show features famous restaurateurs, celebrity chefs, cookbook authors, winemakers, vintners, master sommeliers and all of the entertainers living or working in Las Vegas. This is a “must” for those of you who enjoy the top notch epicurean offerings that Las Vegas now offers. The show airs at noon Pacific time on Saturdays on KDWN 720 AM which you can listen to online at http://www.broadcast.com/radio/talk/kdwn/ The show is now also aired on the Cable Radio Network (check your cable listings for station).

DALE EARNHARDT – Thousands have showed up at the NASCAR Cafe (Sahara Hotel, see our restaurant review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-15.htm ) to pay tribute to the infamous driver who lost his life in last weekend’s Daytona 500. The replica NASCAR car at the cafe happened to be the #3 car of Earnhardt’s. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-20-Tue-2001/news/15482890.html


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


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

The Scintas – are moving from the Las Vegas Hilton to The Rio after a successful first year in Las Vegas. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-20-Tue-2001/living/15469475.html and you can read our review of The Scintas at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-11-29.htm

George Strait – Country Music Festival featuring himself, Alan Jackson, Lonestar, Lee Ann Womack, Brad Paisley, Sara Evens, and Asleep at the Wheel comes to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Sunday, April 1 at 12:20 PM. Tickets at (888) 464-2468

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* EFX Alive – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-09-Fri-2001/weekly/15392334.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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Chop Chop Buffet (Plaza) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_02_15/dining_taste.html
* Commander’s Palace (Dessert Passage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-31-Wed-2001/living/15288739.html
* Isis (Luxor) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-21-Wed-2001/living/15457500.html

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

Friday – 58 ░F / 41 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 60 ░F / 37 ░F Mostly Cloudy
Sunday – 63 ░F / 41 ░F Scattered Showers
Monday – 66 ░F / 40 ░F Partly Cloudy
Tuesday – 65 ░F / 37 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORY: Clint Holmes

Someone once joked that Las Vegas is full of headliners who are “the biggest names you have never heard of.” You get off the plane, drive down the Strip, and see names like Danny Gans or Clint Holmes and you see their faces in the tourist magazines and ask yourself “What do they do, and why are they worth some of my hard earned gambling money”?

Actually, Clint Holmes is no stranger to the music business. In 1974, he scored a #1 hit with “Playground In My Mind (My Name Is Michael)” and over the years appeared as Joan Rivers’ sidekick and announcer on “The Late Show” as well as work with both Entertainment Tonight and a successful run in Atlantic City.

You may enter the showroom not knowing who he is, but you won’t leave that way. His mother was a classically trained opera singer from England and his dad was a jazz musician from the US That left Clint blessed with not only an amazing technical singing ability, but the emotional flow to put with the pitch. Combined with his live 12-piece band and the modernized showroom at Harrah’s and you have every element for a great show.

Clint performs the work of other artists as well as original songs in a free-flowing expose of his life story. Not Broadway, but a little bit of background and banter here and there to weave it together. Fortunately, his life story is interesting, and the music is enjoyable.

His camaraderie with musical director Bill Fayne is sincere as their friendship dates back many years. While most stars want the spotlight to shine on them alone, he shares it with every member of the band, each extremely talented in their own right working together for a magnificent collaboration.

This show is “Old Vegas” style entertainment. The mood is upbeat, friendly, and warm. The songs range from jazz to soul and over the course of the show, Holmes creates a strong bond with the audience. If you want to hear techno and see people fly off the walls, try De La Guarda. If your tastes lean more toward sitting with a drink and enjoying and appreciating a fine artist and showman take the stage and entertain you, pocket a couple of chips from your first winning session at the tables and set them aside to see Clint Holmes.

Clint Holmes Ticket Info

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Cindy Hoplamazian wrote:

>I was wondering if there are any good Chinese or Thai restaurants in
>town?
>
>Do you know where Cook E. Jarr is playing these days?
>I used to see him 25 years ago in Wildwood, New Jersey.
>I heard he was in Vegas.
>Can you give me any info or where he is.
>The last sighting I know is that he was at
>the Sands Winner Circle.á Is that even still in Vegas?
>Thanks for your help!

Starting March 16, he plays Friday and Saturday nights at midnight outdoor at the Carnival Court at Harrah’s on the Strip. We have an authorized page about him at http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr

Readers, if you have a favorite Chinese or Thai restaurant on The Strip, let us know at mailto:allvegastv@aol.com so we can share it next week.

Owen from South Shields, England wrote:

>Just got back a few hours ago from 7 wonderful nights (and days) in LV
>and already I am missing it badly – My 6’th visit but no way the last.
>Stayed at the excellent Sahara and enjoyed the best hospitality
>anywhere on Earth.á Roll on 2002 – Best wishes to all who love Las
>Vegas.

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

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


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!


FREE CONTESTS:

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

PRESS PHOTOS – I have a stack of glossy 8×11 photos of the following: Little Richard, George Jones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Neil McCoy, Collin Ray, Gerald Levert, CCR, and Little Feat. The entire stack goes to the 20’th entry at (contest closed).

ONLINE POLL – Who (if anyone) do you come to Las Vegas with? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from our last poll “How interested are you in online gambling?”

No interest — that is what Vegas is for. 38%
I’ve thought about trying it, but no real interest. 22%
I have gambled online here and there. 19%
I regularly gamble online. 11%
I will probably try an online casino sometime 8%

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
February 21, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

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