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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 20, 2003

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

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 for permanent and instant removal. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

This Issue: Deals, News, Reader Questions Answered

Also In This Issue – August 20, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, Cheap Rooms, News Of Interest To Tourists, More

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

Maverick Las Vegas Wins Travel Channel Awards! – Our friends at Maverick Helicopter Tours were selected by the Travel Channel as having not only one, but two of the Top Ten World’s Best Helicopter Thrills. They were the only company to nail two slots in the top 10.

Labor Day Rooms – It’s not to late to book a room and party three days here in Las Vegas! And if you can’t join us then, keep in mind that summer is just beginning here. Average high temperatures:

September: 94
October: 81
November: 66

Summer doesn’t have to end if you check out our discount room specials. Plus guys … psssst: Football season plus legal sports betting plus our fabulous sports books make fall the exciting time of year! (And ladies, what better excuse to do some shopping if he’s spending his travel “allowance” at the sports book).

Vegas Flood – You probably saw shots of Las Vegas washing away last week. The flood was severe, but only in the far Northwest of our valley. Far away from any areas the average tourist will ever visit (30+ minute drive from The Strip).

Unlike the tourism areas, the far Northwest is still growing , meaning lots of open land and uncompleted flood control. You can view photos: KLAS TV 2003 Flood Gallery

DSL for Low Monthly Cost

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Travel Agents – We have a special offer of you. Please read it at the end of this newsletter.

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!

Featured Story: Reader Questions Answered

Mira Hickey from Germany wrote:

Thank you very much for the newsletter. It’s a pleasure to view your great website from Germany! 🙂

We really appreciate our readers from around the world who take an interest in our crazy, unique American city. Because of the distance and cost, we know it is important to find as much information as possible. That is why we go further than other travel sites, offering huge online photo galleries and streaming videos. No matter where in the world, if you have internet, we bring you the neon!

Message Board Member “vegaswannab” wrote:

Hello, I am a new member and I must say that I am impressed with the hard work that went into making this site exciting and helpful. My husband and I are planning a second honeymoon possibly next year to celebrate our 2nd honeymoon he is 44 and I am 43.

We may be older but we love still to do young things such as dance and listen to oldies 70 & 80’s we are not that old. BUT we feel we may be uncomfortable at some of the clubs that we have seen posted on here as well as advertised, can u tell us if there is a place for older yet not fossils men and women can go and let their hair down as we say.

We are considering either MGM or NYNY or Mirage, which is my personal favorite. We will be there for 10 days and nine nights, and are also seeking a on strip small wedding chapel to renew our vows, can u at all anyone be of help to us.

OK members, all hands on deck! I gave her a few of my suggestions in our Travel Questions/Trip Suggestions forum. With all of our varied reader experiences, I’m sure we can find nine days of great suggestions for them as well as some wedding chapel suggestions. Post away!

June and David wrote:

Due to work schedules and great discounts on air travel and hotels during Christmas that make going to Las Vegas affordable, we come here each year during this time. It seems that most all of the shows we want to see are dark.

Last year we were disappointed when such shows as Skintight, Penn and Teller, Folies Bergere, and Scintas, just to name a few, were all dark. We realize there is lots to do in Vegas, and that performers are entitled to have vacations, but do shows ever vary their schedules and switch vacation days? Will any of these shows be available during this time of year, or are we condemned forever never to see many of these hot shows in Vegas?

Vacationing the 10 days before Christmas is a double-edge sword. It is the lowest demand time of the year, offering dirt cheap room rates and plenty of elbow room here in Las Vegas. The downside is that most shows close. Partly because of the lack of tourists in town, and partly because many of the tourists who do visit before Christmas are budget minded with no interest in spending on a show.

Let us suggest making a second visit on the summer (or alternating every year). August heat brings fairly low room rates, but the shows are in full swing! As always, use our Vegas Show Search and Headliner/Concerts Calendar to play check out what is playing during your trip here.

Message Board Member “sarae” wrote:

7 of us stayed at the Lady Luck last month and were pleased. We felt comfortable gambling, dining, and sleeping. The hotel is not fast paced. I liked being able to walk right out my hotel room to the pool. 5 of us stayed in the Garden rooms and the 2 honeymooners stayed in the tower room with a Jacuzzi. Their room was fancy, rate was reasonable, and had an awesome view. We would all definitely stay there again.

We have some active posts about downtown going on in our Downtown/Fremont St. Experience forums. Join in with questions or share your experiences.

Vegas Questions? Post to our message boards and get great advice from people who have been here and done it.

For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. Include your city — we have readers worldwide!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

Attention Travel Agents: Tired of fighting the airlines and internet travel eroding your business? Let us help! What if you were guaranteed respectable commissions on not just hotels, but shows, tours, golf, dining and more? Not just in Vegas, but resorts across the US including Hawaii!No starting costs, maintenance fees, or minimums. Oh, and we won’t steal your customers. Our “customer for life” policy guarantees you get paid even if they book direct, time after time. Email us now: allvegastv@aol.com (subject line Travel Agent). We’ll get the details right to you.

All contents copyright 2003 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
August 20, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 5, 2000

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

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

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

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

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

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

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Coco Palms “All You Can Eatery”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:Frank in NJ wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robin Skeen wrote:

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

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

Elaine from New Jersey wrote:

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

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

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

 

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

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

FREE CONTESTS:

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

The Frontier is giving away:

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

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

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to below

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
April 5, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 8, 2000

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

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

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

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Darren Romeo

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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

NASCAR – the big race last weekend was a victim to a rare rainy Las Vegas day, which was unfortunate for the 120,000-plus tourist who flocked to town to see it. Race fans may find the following stories from the Review-Journal of interest:

The Race – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/sports/13105240.html
Photos – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/photos/photos.html
Results – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/sports/13105883.html

DANNY GANS – When Danny Gans started at the Rio a little about two years ago, he was somewhat unknown but word spread quick and up went the price. From $40 to $100 in a little more than a year. Gans was upset because the Rio had allegedly told him that price increases would be mutually agreed upon, as Gans wasn’t getting a dime of any raise. Gans bolted to The Mirage when his contract ended, and starts April 4’th. Full story at http://www.bergen.com/previews/cas03200003038.htm

MTV – will be shooting their “Total Request Live” show with host Carson Daily this Saturday at the Fremont St. Experience Saturday from 3:30- 5:00 PM. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-10-Fri-2000/news/13122166.html

WAYNE – Has anybody seen Wayne Newton’s show as it’s traveled around the country? What did you think? ( allvegastv@aol.com )I’m putting it on my short list of things to review now that he’s signed the long term contract to play The Stardust. There was a pretty good story about him and the new situation at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-03-Fri-2000/news/13089738.html

KEY LARGO – hotel on Flamingo is a little too far from the Strip unless you are renting a car or don’t mind taking cabs or waiting for the bus, but according to the Review-Journal, they have installed a number of full pay video poker machines including 9/7 Jacks or Better, Kings or Better Joker’s Wild, Deuces Wild, and 10/7 Double Bonus. Plus, their club card returns .25 percent. Full story is at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-03-Fri-2000/weekly/13065708.html That article is also a good read because it talk about the odds bet at craps — very helpful info for the novice craps player on why to take odds.

X-SPOT – The new club cranks up on Saturday night inside the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay. It’s advertising itself as the “No attitude, no BS place to hang out, drink cheap beer, and listen to good music”. Advertised are $1.50 drafts and a DJ playing alternative music. Admission is free if listen to 107.5 FM to get the password. Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

STORIES – available right now on http://www.accessvegas.com : Eight killed in van rollover, Casino Magnate Wynn Weighs Options, Spokane’s America West service takes off, Las Vegas Posts 10.5% Increase in Visitors

WINNERS – Sandra Martin of Nebraska City, NE won the NASCAR race preview. Paul Gurzynski of Milwaukee, WI won the press photos. Debi Jackson of Kenosha, WI won the Star Trek coin.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

BLUE MAN GROUP – You can check out an article about this quirky group whose show is running at the Luxor at http://www.scopemag.com/features/blue_man_cometh.html and Luxor discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Luxor link).

MANDALAY BAY – B.B. KING on March 15, FLOGGING MOLLY on March 17, THE YOUNG DUBLINERS on March 18, WARREN ZEVON on March 25, INCUBUS on March 29, DIO on April 1, PETER MURPHY on April 2, DR. JOHN on April 6, SEBASTIAN BACH on April 8, LIT on April 9, JOE SATRIANI on April 16, and LYNYRD SKYNYRD on April 25. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

HARD ROCK – JARS OF CLAY with BURLAP TO CASHMERE and DAVID WILCOX March 23, MARGARET CHO on March 25, JOHN LEE HOOKER on April 8, and TRACY CHAPMAN on April 16. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and discount Hard rock rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

SUNSET STATION – BILLY RAY CYRUS on March 24, TAYLOR DAYNE on March 25. Tickets available at (702) 547-7970 and discount Sunset Station rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Sunset Station link).


FEATURE STORY: Darren Romeo

You want to go see a magic show. Your wife wants to be entertained by song. Your friend enjoys comedy. It’s early afternoon in Las Vegas, you are still stuffed from lunch buffet and getting creamed at the tables and slots. What do you do? Head on over to the Flamingo Hilton and catch 24 year old Darren Romeo’s show!

This guy can sing. In fact, he can sing so well that during his first number I could have sworn he was lip synching (pretending to sing to a taped background). In his “hello” to the audience, he assured us that all of his vocals would be absolutely live and then jumped right into the classic “Dream Lover” by namesake Bobby Darren as he put together a plexiglass box for his first trick. Not missing a beat (or a breath), he made his “dream lover” (assistant) appear from the clear empty box.

After another magic stunt themed to his vocal performance, he went on a string of singing comedy impressions of vocalists like Neil Diamond, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Ricky Martin, Elton John, Johnny Mathis, and Tom Jones. The actual impressions were passable, but the highlight was the comedy lyrics and stage moves such as Johnny Mathis crooning his dismay over not being able to attract the women like Tom Jones and Neil Diamand singing about his bald spot. He had everyone rolling in the aisles!

He brought up a female volunteer from the audience to do a touching poetry and musical act about losing a love — asking “have you ever been dumped?” in the middle of tender vocals which brought a laugh. His singing was the perfect accompaniment to a paper rose trick in which he molded a piece of paper into a rose and made it levitate before vanishing in a spectacular ball of fire. I can only imagine the concentration level needed to sing and perform magic together.

The magic was the garden variety that we have all unfortunately been overexposed to on numerous TV specials, but seeing magic in person still gives you that tingling “how did he do that” thrill. We don’t want to spill all the surprises, but he’s got a couple of first-class transformation and teleportation tricks up his sleeve.

He’s such an energetic, fun loving guy that it at times almost detracts from his magic. During a variation of the “pick a card, any card” trick, he was joking along so much that I forgot which pictures we were supposed to be remembering! Perhaps a little more magician’s seriousness would have been in order there, but you can’t be too harsh on a guy who genuinely appears to be having a great time. Despite his extensive resume in theatre and magic that belies his young age, he still comes across with a “pinch me — I can’t believe I’m hear” attitude.

The finale was a piece from Phantom of the Opera that once again showcased both his vocal and theatrical skills and revolved around the levitation of his sleeping assistant. It brought the show to an emotional crest and culminated with a stunning trick.

This show probably isn’t one for the “sports books and craps table” buddies. However, it’s a fun 70 minutes of entertainment for a couple. Also, ladies who are in town for “girls getaway” or who have heard their male companion yell “yo-eleven” for the yo-eleventh too many times at the craps table and need a break will appreciate the show. Besides his talent, Mr. Romeo looks like a slightly younger Ricky Martin and the group of ladies seated in front of me certainly seemed to be enjoying all aspects of the show. Me? I’m more of a yo-eleven kind of guy, but this show even won me over by the end.

Darren Romeo plays in the showroom at The Flamingo Hilton every day but Wednesday at 3:00 PM. Tickets are $14.95 and include one drink. Flamingo Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Flamingo Hilton link).


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

In response to last weeks letter about staying at The Trop and getting married in Las Vegas:

Zira Schiffer wrote:

>My husband and I were married at the Riviera two years ago.á When you
>get in line at the license bureau you’ll think it will take forever,
>but take heart, they are very efficient.á It was actually quite
>interesting watching the different couples there.á The Tropicana is
>definitely not one of the fancy hotels, but I’m sure they do a fine
>ceremony.á The buffet at Rio is very good, but expect to wait on line
>a long time.á Lots of luck.

Note: The regular buffet at the Rio has been going downhill (and up in price) and we no longer suggest it.

Peter from Santa Barbara, CA wrote:

>Diana, I was at the Tropicana two weeks ago and enjoyed it very much.
>The Pool grounds are spectacular and the room was very nice (Nice
>couch, cool bath Tub & mirrors over the bed).á there was only two
>things that I disliked, the Tropicana buffet and the most unpleasant
>”10 mile hike” to our room.á What ever you do not book the rooms in
>the back tower, unless you like a long, long walk.á FYI, they have a
>special $20 for $40 dollar slot area, even if you don’t win cash you
>still get a gift.á We did it for the Follies show, instead of paying
>40 bucks each for just the show, we got a chance to win cash and only
>spent 20 bucks each for the tickets.á Or you can choose two tickets to
>the Magic show among other things as your gift.

Cindy wrote:

>hi there….i am writing in regards to the woman that is getting
>married at the Tropicana in September…i now live in vegas and i also
>married at the little white chapel…my cake came from smith’s grocery
>store which cost $20, it was a round cake with red roses and
>doves…it was beautiful….i called the day before my wedding and
>picked it up myself…i also made my bouquet and the wedding party
>members r flowers by using a few dozen roses and ribbon from the
>grocery store…i spent around $30….i ran to Lee’s discount store
>and picked up 2 bottles of champagne at the cost of $20…cheap
>champagne is just as good in taste as expensive champagne…á and
>brought it with us to the chapel to have when we got out of the
>ceremony as well as to Battista’s whole in the wall behind barbarey
>coast, where we had our wedding dinner…their food is wonderful there
>as well as an enjoyable atmosphere….people were very friendly and
>great…we shared our wedding cake with several unknown guests in the
>restaurant….what ever you do, don’t eat at the buffet at the
>tropicana…it is truly horrible!á as far as wedding pictures, the
>little white chapel requests that no pictures can be taken inside the
>ceremony unless you use their photographers…so of course we had
>to…but my father in law also brought his camera and took several
>pictures after the ceremony and throughout the night…low and behold
>when comparing the differences of pictures when developed, my father
>in laws pictures came out absolutely beautiful which cost $4.95 to
>develop at walmart compared to the photographer’s from the little
>white chapel which cost $200….i ended up having duplicates and
>blow-up done on the $4.95 pictures and none from the little white
>chapel’s….by the way, i went to the hard rock cafe’s diner…its a
>24 hour place inside of the casino….i can’t remember the name of it
>maybe because i never want to go back there….oh my god….it was so
>gross….i couldn’t eat the food and my husband and i left without
>eating….the service was horrible also….i was served food with no
>utensils which took awhile to get a hold of….no offers of refills
>for coffee…and can you believe it…the place was empty…explain
>that one….for the woman getting married in vegas…as a site for her
>to always remember, make a special trip to the top of the stratosphere
>to see all of vegas….i’ve done it a dozen times and still am floored
>by its sight….thanks….cindy

Thanks for all the great advice! Tourist who don’t want to head out to one of the Lee’s Discount Liquor locations might want to hit the discount liquor store at The Gold Coast (the casino right next to The Rio). We have mixed opinions about Mr. Lucky’s, the coffee shop at the Hard Rock. Their $5.95 surf and turf special is great! It’s not on the menu, so ask for it. But, the service is usually lousy.

Sam Profio wrote:

>Ted, on the local (Cleveland) news last night I saw that the Scintas
>are going to be playing the Las Vegas Hilton for the next few months.
>The Scintas are a group from Buffalo that play many cities in NY, OH,
>MI, PA, New England, etc.á They have played on cruise ships as well
>but have never been able to break into Vegas until now.á This is a
>very entertaining group.á They do comedy, sing, and do great
>impersonations of other singers.
>
>The group mainly consists of an Italian family, two brothers and one
>sister.á The brothers sing impersonations from Billy Joel to Satchmo
>and you would swear its the real deal.á The sister has the power and
>range of Whitney Houston and sounds like her too.á Incredible.á The
>brothers are very funny and pick on their drummer who is not Italian,
>”the white boy”.
>
>I have seen them three times and they never disappoint.á I highly
>recommend to all of your readers that they check this out!

While time constraints prevent us from getting around to even half of the great events taking place, thanks for alerting our readers who will be staying or playing at the Las Vegas Hilton.

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

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

ONLINE POLL – “Do you prefer table games, slots, or both?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in 2 weeks!

Results from last poll question “How much per night do you usually pay for a room in Las Vegas”?

Under $30áááá 9%
$30 – $50áááá 25%
$50 – $75áááá 32%
$75 – $100áááá 16%
$100 – $200 5%
over $200áááá 1%
If I don’t get a comp, forget it 12%

FREE CONTESTS:

Note: You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 10’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

3 DAY, 2 NIGHTS AT LADY LUCK – http://www.ladyluck.com/win_a_vaca.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.accessvegas.com You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
March 8, 2000