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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 7, 2009

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AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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! July 4’th hit the Las Vegas Strip with a (literal) bang. Displays by Mandalay Bay, Caesars Palace, and Palace Station pretty much assured that no matter where you were, you could see fireworks. Also, kudos to the financially strapped Station Casinos company for shooting off a display from each of their nine properties around the Las Vegas Valley plus displays by M Resort and others. If you couldn’t see fireworks somewhere in Las Vegas, it was only because you didn’t step outside!

Fewer people are moving to Las Vegas due to the economy. Hence, I haven’t published a “so you want to move to Vegas” segment in a long, long time. However, the housing market has created a prime opportunity for those in a position to make the jump. Whether you are serious about moving here now, perhaps thinking about it for the future, or simply hold is as a “someday” dream, I’ve written a few words of advice in this issue.

Concert Goof – Last week, we somehow ran 2008 concert listings on the sidebar of the newsletter. Amy (who literally rarely screws up) inserted the wrong ones. Worse yet, Mark missed it and then I missed it. However… many of you didn’t and wrote us about it (which we appreciate)! I’m happy to report that we are running the proper listing this week. Also, keep in mind that you can always see the latest listings by week and by month on our Las Vegas Entertainment Concert Calendar

Our Phantom contest is coming to an end very quickly. If you have yet to enter, don’t delay. If you aren’t interested, I’m sure you know others who are. Make sure to note this on your Facebook, Twitter, tell your “Vegas” friends at work, at the bar, anywhere you know of people who’d enjoy winning this:

Enter To Win Tickets For
Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular

Grand Prize Winner Will Also Enjoy Dinner at the Fabulous New FIRST Food & Bar at Palazzo Las Vegas

Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular Entry

More Than Just Dinner and a Show…

Grand Prize: You and a guest will enjoy dinner at the brand new FIRST Food & Bar restaurant inside The Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Following this unique dinner, you’ll move over to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular’s custom theatre to be seduced by this exhilarating “Only In Vegas” rendition of this world famous, award winning show.

Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Entry Page

Limp Bizkit Fan Appreciation Show – This notorious 90’s band is playing a “first come, first served” no ticket charge show at The Palms on July 18. Details are sparse at this time. Fans are urged to check out http://www.limpbizkit.com

Still Thinking Of Moving To Las Vegas? – We have readers who dream of living in Las Vegas, and those who are seriously considering the move. Every few weeks I remind people that this is a lousy time to move here. How lousy? The Review-Journal had a recent article about people from places like Detroit who were actually leaving Las Vegas and moving back to Detroit!

You know it is a tough job market here when people consider Michigan’s economy a better bet. Nothing against Michigan — we count numerous Michigan residents as readers — but they will probably be the first to tell you that their economy isn’t exactly humming along.

But… if you are moving here anyway, some tips:

  1. Most think of Las Vegas as this little island of a place in the desert. Nothing could be further from the truth. The populated portion of the Las Vegas Valley is about 25 miles north/south and 20 miles east/west. Don’t just assume you can plop down anywhere regardless of where you may be working or any special needs/desires (such as an interest in visiting The Strip on a regular basis or the need to fly often). Also, don’t simply assume that a real estate broker will take any of that into account. They all have their preferred areas of town that may be fantastic for them, but lousy for you.
  2. Plan to take a trip here solely based to scout the town. Stay downtown or at one of the chain hotels along Paradise Road (see our handy new Paradise Road hotel map) or an off-strip locals hotel such as Gold Coast or Orleans. You’ll be making a number of trips per day to scout out Las Vegas, and nothing is more miserable than having to deal with Strip traffic and parking multiple times a day. (Take it from us who have to do it from time to time for our jobs).
  3. Scout pretty much the entire Las Vegas area. I don’t just mean driving down a couple of main streets. Get off into a few neighborhoods here and there. Some of the “best kept secret” nicer neighborhoods (in all price ranges) are just off of main streets that otherwise look a bit dated or not-so-upscale. Break the Las Vegas area up into 3-4 sections and plan to spend a few hours a day on this driving quest.
  4. If you mark almost any spot on a Las Vegas map and draw a 5 mile radius line around it, you’ll find just about every kind of neighborhood and just about every price range of home and condo. I can’t emphasize this enough: Don’t let someone tell you what area you should live in. Do your own driving around.

    For example, a Realtor might try to steer you to the very nice, new community of Southern Highlands (the first developed area you see on your left when driving in from Los Angeles). Upscale, many gated communities. However… you may be someone who prefers a great view and would be much happier in the eastern foothills of Sunrise Mountain even though some a Realtor would rarely steer you to that part of town.

  5. The housing market here will be in the ditch for at least another year. If practical, figure out the area of town you think you want to live in and then rent for 6-12 before you buy a home. Nothing is worse than finding out that your “perfect” area might not meet your needs after all.

    Just ask many of the residents in Centennial Hills, which is the far Northwestern area of Las Vegas. A nice area? Yes. But so far from anything and everything that many of us long-timers call it “South Reno” (as it is so far north that it almost seems you are closer to Reno than Las Vegas). You’ll find yourself 25 miles from the McCarran Airport, 20 miles from The Strip, and with only one “usually congested” freeway between yourself and downtown. Move there then end up with a job in Green Valley and you are screwed into a Los Angeles style commute of 35 miles each way. Probably not what you moved to Las Vegas for.

    My tip? If you don’t have the time/ability to do the kind of research I outlined, lean toward the Southeast part of Las Vegas (anything between The Strip and Henderson). You’ll find out that your are no more than 15 minutes from just about anything important in our area.

Billy Mays R.I.P. – This has absolutely nothing to do with Las Vegas, but many us in the Access Vegas circle loved watching Billy Mays. Like him or not, his TV presentation style was unmistakably successful and we were also big fans of the show Pitchmen on Discovery. In this line of work, I can usually eventually find a way to meet people I want to meet (getting convention passes or whatever) and Billy Mays was way up there on my “want to meet” list. Our best to his family and friends.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

Bally’s from $49, El Cortez from $17, Fitzgeralds from $20, Hooters from $17, Orleans from $26, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $20, Stratosphere from $27, Tropicana from $28, Tuscany from $20, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Gordie Brown Live at The Golden Nugget

gordie brown las vegas

Impressionist, singer and entertainer Gordie Brown takes you on a wild ride, in his show “Gordie Brown Live” at the Golden Nugget, and you wonÆt want to get off. Most of the show is made up of songs heralded by famous musicians and spoofed by this amazing talent. In addition to his phenomenal mimicry, Gordie replaces the song lyrics with his own and you canÆt stop laughing. Brown is backed by a talented band.

He nails Randy Travis singing without moving his lips, jumps around the stage as an aging Mick Jagger, shows us what an oversexed Tom Jones looks like and hurts himself in order to reach the high notes as Joe Cocker. We hear Bruce SpringsteenÆs take on Internet Dating, Barenaked Ladies ordering a meal with Chris Isaac finding a roach in his soup. Brown moves seamlessly from performer to performer, poking fun at the idiosyncrasies that set each one apart. One of the highlights of the show is of Sean Connery, Ray Romano, Nicolas Cage, John Travolta, Christopher Walken and Chris Rock all auditioning for the role of Batman.

The Minus 5 Experience Unveiled The Life-Size “Ice Portrait” of Mayor Goodman – Minus 5 Experience unveiled their life size “Ice Portrait” of Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. The ice portrait is based on a photograph provided by famed photographer Tomas Muscionico (who’s photo credits include portraits of A-list celebrities including Ray Charles, President Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, and Steven Spielberg to name a few). Professional ice sculptors took approximately 32 hours to carve the portrait, utilizing more than 10 different tools to meticulously shape 550 pounds of crystal clear Canadian ice. The cool replica will remain on display throughout the summer, allowing visitors the opportunity to cozy up to the legendary Mayor.

Phantom û The Las Vegas Spectacular Celebrates Three Smashing Years At The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino – Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular, celebrated its third anniversary on June 24 as one of the most successful and longest-running musical theater productions on The Strip. After three thriving years and 1,353 performances, the cast and crew celebrated with an exquisitely decorated Phantom-themed cake during the curtain call at last night’s performance. Photo credit: Tom Donoghue.

Tickets For Floyd Mayweather vs. Juan Manuel Marquez Go On Sale – Fight Rescheduled For Saturday, September 19 at MGM Grand – Sports fans around the world can celebrate again as it was announced today that the highly anticipated 12-round welterweight showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Juan Manuel Marquez has been officially rescheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19.

Las Vegas Deals

These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I am visiting Vegas July 19-23. Contrary to your assertion in your 6-29-09 newsletter, the airfares are not coming down. I am traveling from Sacramento to LV and priced the round trip costs for two for five weeks. They never went down. Actually I think the airfares contribute to the tourism dwindling because of the economy and rates not traveler friendly.

Walley

Ted Responds:

We noted that according to the Associated Press, they are at the bottom and likely will be rising over the next few weeks. Let me quote:

Airfare Hitting Bottom - A very recent Associated Press story noted that airfare prices are at the bottom. The price of oil is starting to rise and people who cut back spending during the recession (but never lost their jobs) are starting to loosen up their spending a bit. They suggest that if thinking about a trip, book your airfare now.

Las Vegas visitor volume has been on a slow but steady upward trend as the extremely low room rates more than offset the price of airfare. Having said that, Las Vegas as a destination has absolutely no control over airfare. Airlines set their own prices.

Hope that helps explain it better!

I am not sure of where the airfare is way down but it sure is not BOSTON.

Gail Parkinson

Ted Responds:

Boston isn’t noted for having low prices for much of anything. As a business hub, the airlines that serve it know they can get top dollar.

Mark Jacobs (of our staff) if from Boston, so we are well in tune with your area.

You have to take the good with the bad, I guess. You have great sports teams, and are a center of education and commerce. The flip side of the coin is the cost of living (including the cost of flying).

I do appreciate you input. Please continue to enjoy the newsletter.

Love the newsletter. Thanks for all the useful information. One question though. Me and my wife venture to Vegas quite frequently (3 to 4 times per year). We stay at a new location every time. On our most recent trip (May 2nd through 5th) we were staying at the Encore. I decided to try tipping the front desk to get an upgrade, which you have talked about a few times in the news letter.

Since it was a pretty upscale place I decided that a $50 would be the right amount. I folded it and placed it between my I.D. and credit card and handed it to the lady at the front desk, making sure that the denomination of the bill was clearly showing. She saw it and responded, “you don’t need to do that sir, I will do my best”. Needless to say, we did not get the upgraded room as I had hoped. My question is: Did I not tip enough, or do they just not take “bribes” at the Encore? Or did I do something wrong? Please advise.

Thanks for all you do.

Scott Etherington

Ted Responds:

$50 should have been fine for Encore, and I’ve heard of the tip working at Wynn.

Having said that, it is not a guaranteed deal. I’ve had it both work and fail at the same hotel. Various hotels have various directives, plus some clerks are more “by the book” (if you want an upgrade, you pay for it), than others.

ALSO, you’ll usually have better luck with it on non-convention weekdays when the hotel might not quite be as full.

Bottom Line: It is always worth a try. If it doesn’t work, it’s not a personal rejection of you. Various reasons beyond your (and sometimes their) control. You are in Las Vegas to gamble. Might as well take a “can’t lose” shot at the upgrade. It is the one bet in town that doesn’t cost if you lose.

P.S. The trendy new name to call Wynn and Encore that seems to be starting to catch on (and that Steve Wynn probably hates): Wynncore

Just want to mention that we always stay “Downtown on Fremont Street” Have stayed at the Plaza, the Lady Luck and will stay at The golden Nugget this year… If anyone knows about “Downtown”, they will remember Lady Luck is/was at one end of Fremont, and The Plaza is at the other end.

While I have been with Family, Husband and best girl friend, I have always felt very safe on Fremont Street from one end to the other. Often, I am alone and going back to my room at 3am or later… walking by myself…. I have never felt unsafe or been approached in any way…and I also know that should this happen, all I need to do is walk into the door of a Casino for help. The casino’s are so close together that this would not be a problem.

Off Fremont, I would not venture though…and although the El Cortez has been upgraded and is very nice, I would think twice about venturing there by myself after dark… but we do visit from early AM thru Dusk… and enjoy it very much. However, if I had a partner to walk with me, I would not hesitate to go there and play later… just not by myself.

As for Fremont Street, I feel very much at ease and very safe alone. So Ladies, this comes from one of your own… and I would not hesitate to tell you to visit or stay at the Casino’s “Downtown.” And Ted is right about the Taxi service at every hotel… usually there is enough Savings on your rooms “Downtown” to pay for your Strip Visits by Taxi, and still come out ahead $$ wise. Food for thought!

Sherrie Brickey

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the input. Especially the great point about being able to walk into any casino if you even feel at all threatened. Pretty much every inch of a casino (except the restrooms) is always on camera and being recorded! If you ever feel unsafe at any time for any reason in any of the tourist areas of Las Vegas (highly unlikely), simply duck inside a casino.

I guess no matter where ya go politicians can find a way to spend tax dollars in weird ways, i.e. not to benefit of the most. I came to Vegas in Sept 2000 for the first time. My first vacation in 20 years. It was (I thought) just to appease my wife. She was telling me how I should visit as she had years before and how great it was. I thought O.K., one visit and get it out of my (our) system.

That trip, then one April 2001, Oct 2001 (5 weeks after open heart surgery 45 years old, I’m ex-army and terrorists will not dictate my life!!!) were great. We stayed at Treasure Island and always had a great time. We came out at least twice a year and once made it three times (son turned 21).

But I noticed as you talk about, all of a sudden things started changing, and drastically. Where we once felt we were welcome, it started to feel like we were a bother. Even when we did get offers from several properties for free or discounted rooms, we choose not to use them. We had 3 free nights at Treasure several years ago, and my wife was so upset with the way they changed, we walked out and went to the Riv. Then we made the big mistake, we bought a time share and have since upgraded it to Tahiti Village. The actual cost per night/lifetime use is pretty steep. However, the amenities are great and discounted tickets, free breakfast etc. can count for something.

We do very little gambling now as we rent a car all the time, and do shows and movies. Don’t get me wrong, we still enjoy Vegas, just not as much or in the same way we used to. And that is to their detriment. Before we would think nothing about putting back thousands in winnings (and did) because we could have fun doing it. That has changed. I probably spend 40% of what I used to.

I guess what I am saying is this. Politicians don’t know what entertains the common folk and the casino/resort owners better get back to what the used to do, entertain us. Even if they don’t like us anymore, they can hire people to fake it.

And to you I say, thanks for wanting us to come out and visit!!!!!

Richard Faw

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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

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:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 19
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20

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

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

July 8, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 24, 2009

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AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Can’t see all the great photos and graphics? Click to Read This Issue Online! Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com

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

This newsletter is 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.

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! Weird week as we say goodbye to three entertainment icons: Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, and Ed McMahon. Plus, it was overcast with light rain here for a couple of days. Just a weird week. This newsletter is going to be all over the map. If a section doesn’t interest you, just keep scrolling! On to some fun and winning…

Enter To Win Tickets For
Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular

Grand Prize Winner Will Also Enjoy Dinner at the Fabulous New FIRST Food & Bar at Palazzo Las Vegas

Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular Entry

More Than Just Dinner and a Show…

Grand Prize: You and a guest will enjoy dinner at the brand new FIRST Food & Bar restaurant inside The Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Following this unique dinner, you’ll move over to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular’s custom theatre to be seduced by this exhilarating “Only In Vegas” rendition of this world famous, award winning show.

Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Entry Page

4’th Of July – We’ve continued to add quite a bit of information to our Fourth of July 2009 Las Vegas page. If you are going to be here this coming weekend (or even thinking about it), make sure you find out what is going on. It is going to be one huge weekend in Las Vegas!

New York, New York Roller Coaster – Certainly one of the wilder rides in Las Vegas, but not cheap at $14 for the first ride and $7 for each re-ride. (Co’mon guys… Every time we drive by, it is running nearly empty. Could it be the price)? However… for those who are true thrill seekers, they do offer a $25 all-day Scream Pass.

I haven’t done the NY, NY ride but a few years ago bought an “all you can ride” pass for the rides atop Stratosphere Tower (currently running $33 for Tower admission and all the rides you can handle) and went on the Big Shot ten straight times. (That is the ride which shoots you straight up off the top of the tower). Once you get used to both the height and the weightlessness, the view is unmatched!

Play The Machines Loaded – Very recently, I stopped to toss a few bucks into a Megabucks slot machine (our version of the lottery). The last person to play it before me had only bet two coins instead of the maximum three one can bet on this machine. Like just about every other “progressive jackpot” machine (where there is a huge top prize), you must play Megabucks “loaded” (full coins in) to hit the top prize.

If you line up the winning symbols but are playing for a smaller bet than the maximum, you won’t get the top prize. Even if you line up the highest winning symbols! If a certain progressive jackpot machine beckons you but is a little bit out of your financial league, do one of two things: 1. Plan of playing fewer hands or 2. Find a machine that is in your price range. Never, ever “try your luck” with less than the maximum bet allowed on a progressive.

New Las Vegas Deals TV Show – Our friend Alan Mendelson (long time Southern California newscaster) is bringing a new type of TV infomercial program is coming to Las Vegas TV called Vegas Best Buys. Unlike traditional TV infomercials that have advertising from one company, Vegas Best Buys will feature “mini infomercials” from ten to twelve advertisers with each advertiser getting a segment of several minutes on the program.

Alan has been producing the “Best Buys TV Show” in Los Angeles. The shows — both the Los Angeles and the Las Vegas versions — follow a “news format” that Mendelson developed while doing bargain shopping news reports for the CBS TV stations in Los Angeles. Interested businesses should contact him through his web site www.AlanBestBuys.com. Alan has told us that there will be no charge to the businesses that are picked to participate in the pilot. So pass this along to any local business owners you know.

Airfare Hitting Bottom – A very recent Associated Press story noted that airfare prices are at the bottom. The price of oil is starting to rise and people who cut back spending during the recession (but never lost their jobs) are starting to loosen up their spending a bit. They suggest that if thinking about a trip, book your airfare now.

If coming to Vegas, don’t forget to compare hotel prices with our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals. How do they keep their prices so low? They buy rooms in bulk, at wholesale prices from the hotels (who are willing to do so because it guarantees that the rooms are sold). They then pass the savings along to you.

Lowest Graduation Rate – Nevada has the lowest high school graduation rate in the country, with less than 50% of students grabbing that diploma. In the past, this was attributed to the ease of getting a good paying job in hospitality or construction (or on a stripper pole) without an education. Given the 11% unemployment rate and the end of the “gravy train” of high paying, low skill jobs because of the economy, let’s hope we see that number start creeping up a bit.

Summer Of ’69 Contest – If you missed our last issue (or just forgot to enter), you only have a few more days to take a shot at our Summer Of ’69 giveaway of lots of cool and unique Vegas stuff. Details are in the archives of our June 17, 2009 Access Vegas Insider Vibe.

More Members Mania – I’ve had to skip doing our very popular Members Mania section of the newsletter (scroll down about 2/3 of the way) a couple times in the past two months. So… we did a double-dose for you this week.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

Bally’s from $49, El Cortez from $23, Fitzgeralds from $23, Hooters from $20, Orleans from $28, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $23, Stratosphere from $25, Tropicana from $28, Tuscany from $31, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Barbra & Frank, The Concert That Never Wasà

barbra streisand frank sinatra las vegas

“Barbra & Frank, The Concert That Never Wasà” at the Riviera Hotel & Casino is pure Vegas entertainment. Imagine if you will, an evening with two of the greatest musical icons of the 20th Century û Barbra Streisand and Frank Sinatra, together on the same stage. It never happened. It never could have happened. But Sharon Owens and Sebastian Anzaldo will make you feel as if it did, with you right there in the audience. Frankie starts the night off with the classic “I’ve Got A Crush On You.”

Anzaldo is dapper and debonair as Sinatra and quickly pulls you into the illusion. He’s got Frankie down. The voice and the physicality is unmistakably Sinatra. Owens’ Streisand has all the mannerisms of the real Streisand û the long nails, the hair. But it’s when she opens her mouth that she becomes Barbra. Her nasally speaking voice is true to character. She delivers the songs like a pro.

Penn & TellerÆs Magic Keeps Las Vegas Mesmerized

penn teller las vegas

In terms of upholding their reputations, the two do not disappoint here at The Rio. Employing a variety of standard magic bits from a simple Cups & Balls illusion to the more dramatic Sawing a Lady in Halves, Penn & Teller manage to inject their unique take and unexpected punchline every time. Other parts of the act incorporate totally unusual devices, such as an Airport Metal Detector. And PennÆs romantic fire-eating interlude is in a category all its own, as is his nail-biting nail gun routine. Teller, despite his trademark staunch silence, shines every bit as brightly in many acts highlighting his deft sleight of hand skills.

“Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick Exclusive Las Vegas Hilton Engagement – “Sgt. Pepper Live,” featuring Cheap Trick, will be presented at the Las Vegas Hilton September 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23. The performances, with special musical guests to be announced, will feature a full symphony orchestra, audio production by Geoff Emerick and set design by Rene Lagler. “One of America’s greatest bands ever, doing their live interpretation of this classic rock album, an album nobody believed could be performed outside the recording studio, sets a new standard for rock and entertainment in Las Vegas,” said Ken Ciancimino, executive vice president of the Las Vegas Hilton.

One Less Timeshare Company?

This past week, the company that probably was THE major timeshare company in Las Vegas (and one of the biggest in the U.S.) declared bankruptcy. These are my thoughts:

The economy has forced Consolidated Resorts into bankruptcy this past week. You might know then as the people behind Tahiti Village, the timeshare resort on the very, very, very south end of The Strip (2 miles south of Mandalay Bay). This may mean less people stopping you along The Strip at various hotels and asking you if you want free show tickets in return for listening to a timeshare pitch.

What remains to be seen will be the impact on the various shows which they promoted. They would actually buy the show tickets (presumably at some discount) then give them away. Various shows over the years continued to soldier on largely in part due to this guaranteed revenue.

Believe it or not, their preferred method of getting people to take timeshare tours was NOT stopping people on The Strip. It is costly to rent the space, put up the incentives, etc. Consolidated had an widespread radio campaign (featuring celebrities like Rosanne Barr and Tanya Roberts) and were in the process of developing a very aggressive internet presence in order to target regular Las Vegas visitors who would be interested in a dedicated place here.

How do I know all of this? We had discussions a few years ago regarding working with them on this effort, and again last fall a few more informal discussions regarding their internet marketing strategy.

The great thing about the internet is the ability to target those who might be interested in a product without the “in your face” presentation you (as a visitor) get from the sales people while you walk down The Strip. Final Note: At this time, Access Vegas own the undeveloped properties FreeStayVegas.com and FreeStayLasVegas.com. They are currently for sale or lease. Interested parties should email allvegastv@aol.com

Las Vegas Deals

These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I am bringing my grown up family to America in June/July – (3 nights San Francisco, 2 nights Lake Tahoe, 7 nights Las Vegas and 3 nights LA). The last time I visited Las Vegas for a few days was pre-Wynn hotels. Our week in Vegas commences 30’th June. Apart from the Grand Canyon, what are the top five places I should show them whilst there?

Graham

Ted Responds:

That sounds like quite the trip, and you are sure to enjoy yourself!

Las Vegas has so much to do and see, and everyone has different tastes. Hence, a “Top 5” would be impossible to come up with.

If you go to our newsletter archives site at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com and scroll down the right sidebar, you will see links to years worth of archives. You may wish to scroll though them and see what catches your eye!

I have read that the M resort shuttle to and from Fashion Show Mall is only available to residents of the hotel, is this fact ? We would like to visit M on our next trip but the thought of return cab fares from Wynn would be prohibitive for a lunch outing at Studio B. (This may sound strange but I am happy to gamble say $500 on our visit there but reluctant to pay a return cab fare! More to play with I suppose).

Regards,

Annette & Bill from the UK

Ted Responds:

Nothing wrong with saving your money for playing the machines or taking in some great shows!

I personally called M not long ago was told that anyone can use their to come on down and visit the hotel. My advice? Call M when you are in town to double check. Tell them you are staying on The Strip and want to come down to eat and do a little playing. And, ask the M shuttle driver when you get in the shuttle to confirm.

P.S. Many don’t know this, but it is a proper courtesy to give a shuttle drive $1 per person tip upon exiting the shuttle.

I first visited Vegas in 1960, on my way to being sworn-in as a new Navy Medical Officer. Over the years, my wife and I have visited Vegas many times. Over the past 20+ years we’ve averaged visiting once a year (our most recent visit was in January) and what a change we’ve noted over the years.

I enjoy Blackjack but I couldn’t find a decent game anywhere on the Strip what with hardly a $10 minimum, 3:2 Blackjack payoffs, Dealer hitting Soft 17, No Late Surrenders, etc.. And, hardly anyone at the tables. Vegas is going down the tubes & it’s not just because of the economy. The MBA bean counters are ruining it for everyone. I think things were a lot better during the Bugsy Siegel era (from a gaming standpoint).

Ham

Ted Responds:

Thanks for reading and thanks for your input. Surrender (a blackjack rule that lets you save part of your bet) went away years ago. It made the game too advantageous for card counters. Having said that, downtown still has plenty of lower limit blackjack with a full 3:2 payoff for a blackjack.

We’ve been talking about downtown quite a bit the past few months because downtown is still very much run the old way. Smaller operators (or single casino owners), food deals, cheaper drinks, looser slots, and better table game rules.

You can win or lose anywhere on a given day, but we continue to encourage people who want to do some serious gambling without breaking the bank to plan a session or two downtown. Fremont Street downtown is no longer as far removed from The Strip as it once was. The Deuce bus runs every few minutes, 24/7 and you can hop off at The Sahara and catch the monorail to most parts of The Strip in a matter of minutes.

The only way the casinos on The Strip will get the message to bring back decent rules and lower limits is if more and more people take their gambling downtown.

I am planning a trip to Vegas sometime this year and I would like to bring my 17 year old niece with me. She has a great interest in singing and I would love to take her to see some of the shows. Are there any age restrictions for the shows? I know there are age restrictions for the casinos and of course, the X-rated shows, but, is there anything else I need to know?

Thanks for your help.

Heather Rhind

Ted Responds:

Except for any show that features some form of nudity (or some of the comedy shows because of content and/or a bar setting), shows generally don’t have age restrictions.

I say this generally, because some may not encourage (or actually have a ban on) young children.

However, a teenager won’t have any issues. Especially a 17 year old girl. You won’t see or hear anything at most Las Vegas shows that they already see or hear on MTV.

Thank you for your continued excellent newsletter. Being from the UK itÆs a great way to stay in touch with all the latest gossip from your wonderful city. We are planning a trip in the summer with our 3 kids and their partners, 2 of whom are vegetarian. Can you suggest the best places to go for good ‘veggie’ food at reasonable prices, credit crunch problems here in UK means we donÆt have as many US$ as we would like to spend!!

CanÆt wait to see Vegas again soon. Keep up the great work we really appreciate it!

Kind Regards,

Kim from Essex U.K.

Ted Responds:

As you can imagine, Las Vegas isn’t exactly a bastion of vegetarian dining. Your best bet for a variety of non-meat items would be the various hotel buffets. Buffet prices vary widely and you get what you pay for.

If renting a car, you’ll find major grocery stores just a couple minutes east of The Strip at Flamingo/Maryland Pkwy. (Albertson’s) and Tropicana/Maryland Pkwy. (Vons) where you will be able to find plenty of food that should suit your needs. Plus, you can buy a cheap, disposable cooler to keep in your room and keep it filled with ice from the hotel ice machine.

Any word on the Lady Luck Casino???

We visit Vegas about once a year and have stayed there a couple of times. We thought it was a lot of fun (we prefer the smaller casinos) and the food was great! Hope it returns.

Judy from Minnesota

Ted Responds:

Nothing will happen to it until the economy improves. Sadly, it probably won’t be the same when it re-opens. Different owners, etc.

I miss it, too. Really enjoyed it. Over the years when heading downtown alone (strictly for research purposes, or course), I’d usually park at the Gold Spike for some $1 blackjack (back when the Gold Spike was a dive), and hit the Lady Luck for a couple of cocktails and 25 cent video poker before moving on to dinner somewhere on Fremont Street.

My dad & I returned from an 8 day stay at the Flamingo earlier this year. The closet was broke in the room and I don’t think the maid vacuumed the whole time we were there. One day, she never even left any towels! We will not be staying there again.

Did get to Fremont Street this trip. it was wonderful, just wish we would have eaten in the Golden Nugget sooner. Best buffet we ever had! Marvelous time at the Wayne Newton show at the MGM. Had fun at the meet and greet after the show. Wayne is soooo gracious and really gives everything hes got at every show. Cant wait till next time!

Donna

Ted Responds:

A word to the hotels who have been cutting staff to the bone in an effort to save money: This is what you are getting. Unhappy customers.

Never be afraid to call (or visit) the front desk if service is lacking. Something as simple as “It doesn’t appear that our towels were changed out nor was our room vacuumed today. Can you send someone up to take care of this” should suffice.

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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 I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 19
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20

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June 24, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy