Tag Archives: hard rock

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 7, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’d like to personally apologize if you visited over the weekend into the early week. Temperatures struggled to make it to 50 degrees F and we had numerous overnight lows below freezing. If you are a regular reader, you know that I’ve reminded everybody over the past few months that our average Dec. and Jan. low temps are 57 (for both months). Fortunately, we’re pretty much getting back to those numbers. And, that the actual temperature can easily be 10+ degrees of average.

Working Pretty Well – Posting the newsletter online (instead of delivering it in email) is a nice step forward. So many more are enjoy it because it doesn’t get caught in spam filters. Additionally, the look and feel stays intact for ease of reading. Even more importantly, I don’t have to kill myself trying to censor it. We have to use words like strip (as in Las Vegas Strip), casinos, gambling, poker, topless (as in shows) and similar. And those are some of the exact words which spam filters use to keep email from getting to you.

Sahara Officially Renamed – A Bloomberg interview with Sahara owner Sam Nazarian indicates that he will be changing the name of the property to SLS Las Vegas and the property will be remade as a trendy, boutique hotel. Which (as I’ve stated before) won’t work in that location in a million years. In related news…

Fon-Tain-Blu-(Goes-Boom)? – The Fontainebleau (spelled phonetically in the blurb title) is seeing quite a bit of hard hat action lately. As exclusively reported by Scott Whitney on Living in Las Vegas #133, discovery is being done to figure out whether it is cheaper to implode the building or take it apart and sell the steel. However, given the resurgence of the Las Vegas economy and solid projections of visitor growth over the next few years, I have to think that finishing the property is still an option.

I have mixed emotions. The building is very out-of-place for the location, boring looking, and and way too tall. Having said that, demolition would be a black eye on Las Vegas at a time things have really turned around. As always, we’ll keep you posted! Speaking of Las Vegas turning around…

You Don’t Say – Analysts are noting modest revenue increases for Las Vegas tourism in 2012 on the heels of gains in the past few months. We didn’t need analysts to figure this out. How about you walk around downtown or The Strip and look with you own eyes. Las Vegas is jammed again!

Biggest growth for 2012 will be in the affluent traveler segment. For those of you complaining that Las Vegas is becoming just for the rich (completely not true, and we give examples of room and food bargains on a regular basis), certainly the segment catering to the wealthier visitor will increase. Look for every steepening rates at places like Wynn/Encore, Venetian/Palazzo, CityCenter, and even Bellagio.

Regardless of the level of your accommodations, prices are on the rise. If you are even thinking about a 2012 Vegas vacation, I’d strongly suggest clicking over to visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and enter some dates looking to lock something up. Waiting will only bring higher prices.

Many of you saw an article titled Is Nevada recovering? Depends on who you ask in your local papers. Considering that the article was written by someone from out-of-state, they actually did a pretty good job of nailing it. If you are on tourism, you’re probably doing fine. The sector is starting to return to normal. For those in construction, forget about it. Years will go by before the foreclosure housing is absorbed (prompting new home construction),áno resorts are on the drawing board, and we have a glut of commercial space.

Thank You Steve Wynn – According to a recent published report, it was Steve Wynn who at a routine meeting with Clark County (Las Vegas) Sheriff Doug Gillespie brought up the issue of how intimidating the pornslappers (adult escort service handbill distributors) were to visitors. Gillespie and the companies who do the “handbilling” have evidently come to an agreement.

Police won’t harass the pornslappers (who are protected under their right to free speech) if the distributors agree to doing things like not slapping the cards (which makes a noise and gets people’s attention), not shoving them in people’s faces, cleaning up after themselves and similar. We’ll see how this is going. As I’ve always noted, the best advice is to literally ignore them. Treat them like they don’t exist.

50/50 – Las Vegas is now attracting just as many female visitors as male. This is a sharp cry from when I first moved here in 1993 and Vegas was a “boys vacation” town. Lots more things for girls to do to get in trouble then there was back then…

Take A Ride On The Wild Side – Motley Crue is slated to do 12 dates at the Hard Rock during the months of February. This is an experiment to see if a hard rock act can make a residency work in Las Vegas a la Celine Dion. This won’t be a typical Motley concert date (which are pretty theatrical to begin with). They promise to use the fact that they’ll be in one spot (they don’t have to break the show down each night) to add all kinds of twists and turns to the show. Tickets are now available: Motley Crue Las Vegas Tickets

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Holly Madison, Birthday, Chateau Nightclub, PeepshowHolly Madison Celebrated her Birthday at Chateau Nightclub and Gardens – The gorgeous Holly Madison wowed the crowd on the red carpet as she celebrated her 32nd birthday at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens inside Paris Las Vegas, Saturday night. The Las Vegas ”PEEPSHOW” star dazzled in a gold sparkle dress by Versace for H&M collection and red sparkle Christian Louboutin stilettos with gold spikes. Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Railroad Pass, Gingerbread, ChristmasRailroad Pass Hotel and Casino Announces Gingerbread Houses Display – It’s Holiday time at the Historic Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino. And, as part of the year- long 80th birthday celebration, they are bringing back a tradition from the 1800’s with the artistry of Gingerbread Houses.

The Hard Rock Store Supports The Salvation Army – Donate And Win! – ‘Tis the season for giving and The Hard Rock Store inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino supports The Salvation Army of Southern Nevada by encouraging guests to make donations between now and the end of the year. Suitable items include non-perishable food and cold weather attire.

winter cocktailThe Waterfall, Atrium and Gardens Of The Palazzo Transform Into A Majestic Winter Utopia û Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resorts’ festive Winter in Venice cocktails – As part of The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs (click link to book) inaugural Winter in Venice celebration, the resortsÆ horticulture team put the finishing touches on its unique winter displays in the resortÆs Waterfall, Atrium & Gardens this morning. Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resortsÆ festive Winter in Venice cocktails while enjoying the distinctive scenery including the popular Gondolier Blanco served at The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs bars and lounges.

Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon TourDream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with beverages, snacks and Extra Flight Time in the Grand Canyon! Experience the journey of a lifetime. Your journey begins with a flight out of Las Vegas to Hidden Valley to see the arches. Continue your journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape.

Click To Book Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Las Vegas Cashes In on Reality Television – Las Vegas is famous for its glitz and glamor. The vibrant city oozes sex appeal. Increasingly, the characters on reality television programs set in Las Vegas provide fascinating scripts not even Hollywood could create. From the young, wild and hot on the E! Channel’s ”Holly’s World”, to big spenders indulging at the Hard Rock’s Rehab pool party, to oddballs getting locked up on Tru TV’s ”Las Vegas Jailhouse”, it all adds up to free promotion for the entertainment capital of the world. Read More…
  • Las VegasÆ Over-the-Top Bathrooms – Any self-respecting traveler knows the importance of finding a clean public bathroom. It’s a place not only to take care of “‘business,” but a place to regroup and take a break from the masses. But in Las Vegas some public bathrooms are giving new meaning to the term royal flush. From over-the-top decor, to wall art that keeps customers lingering (maybe a bit too long) –even free language lessons, a trip to the bathroom can be as exciting as hitting the jack pot. Read more…
  • Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat – Living in Las Vegas certainly has many perksà one being the amazing access you get to activities usually planned for vacation trips. One great example that we’ve come across is the Dolphin Habitat at Mirage. Eight magical Atlantic bottlenose dolphins just waiting for you to join them as a ôtrainer for a dayàö You’ll get to feed the dolphins, learn to train the dolphins, and dine with the dolphins.
  • Red Rock Canyon Time Lapse Scenic Drive – Last week, we presented the Red Rock Casino to Blue Diamond time lapse drive. Now see what happens when you take the ultra-scenic Red Rock Canyon loop. A fast drive though the 12.5 mile narrow road of Red Rock Canyon Park just outside of Las Vegas.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I live in South Florida and visit Vegas every year, sometimes twice. If they build a huge casino complex in Miami it would not change my visiting Vegas. I don’t come to Vegas for the gambling but for the shows, restaurants and fun. The gambling in second. Before I moved to FL (2 years ago) I lived in MD and seldom went to Atlantic City. Not a fun place. No matter how many casinos/resorts they build in the country there is still only one Vegas!!!

Doris Osborne

 

Ted Responds:

A recent pretty lengthy article in our newspaper was examining this, and the consensus agrees with you. The Miami developers are quoting crazy numbers when they refer to the visitors they’ll steal from Las Vegas. The same point as yours was also made: Las Vegas isn’t just about gambling. It is the excitement of the entire destination!

Don’t get me wrong: People from the east will take the shorter flight for a quick Miami vacation that involves gambling. But most likely not as a replacement to their Vegas trips.

Unless or until Miami or Cuba builds their own version of the Las Vegas strip with miles of gaming resorts, single casinos in various locals a round the country just wet people’s appetite for Las Vegas. I hate to sound like a broken record, but we’re on pace to tie the record for visitors this year and pass it next year. That’s not exactly a sign that other gaming destinations are keeping people away!

Just back from a two-night, three-day stay in Vegas, our first trip to Sin City in two years. We stayed at MGM Grand. No room matching our reservation for non-smoking and one king-size bed was ready upon our arrival, and my wife wasn’t feeling well after the flight, so we had to spend an hour in a bar waiting for a room (our paperwork, by the way, guaranteed our room by 3 p.m., but we didn’t get ours until 4 p.m.). After that, though, we had a great trip, with time poolside, a nice first-day hit at video poker, and an outing to Fremont Street.

My wife had never been to Fremont Street; I’d seen the same shows there a few times and would have skipped it myself. However, the new (to me) Fremont Street Experience shows (we saw the “American Pie” and “Tribute to Queen” shows, plus one more) were a pleasant surprise to me, so we both enjoyed the outing.

During our stay, we enjoyed fine meals at the Wolfgang Puck and Diego at MGM, and a nice lunch at an outdoor table at Trader Vic’s at Planet Hollywood. We thought we’d have a nice view of the Bellagio fountains there, but the view is better from the outdoor tables at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris.

We were very impressed by our first visit to Planet Hollywood. I’d never been impressed by the former Aladdin, but very much like what they’ve done with the place. I spent some time at the Planet Hollywood sports book and found it to be comfortable, with a nice variety of big TVs for football.

The only show we saw on this trip was “Zumanity”, which we thought was great. We hadn’t known about the comic relief in this show, and that really added to our enjoyment of the show. Maybe we just got lucky, but the audience members roped into the show were cooperative and funny…I imagine not everyone would be!

One final point about a merchant we’ve come to feel offers unique, beautiful jewelry at reasonable prices and with unmatched service: Bernard Passman’s black coral jewelry store at Venetian. On top of what I’ve just said, I can add that they stand by the quality of their jewelry without hesitation.

I enjoy the newsletter and look forward to each issue; I also look forward to returning to Vegas sooner next time, as our package at MGM included an airfare credit for our next trip!

Scott from Dimondale, MI

 

Ted Responds:

First of all, I need to note that we just found a bunch of great trip reports from 2008 that got orphaned in our system. This was one of them. Over time, we’ll be running those which are still relevant.

When you have issues with a property, I still highly recommend sending a polite but pointed snail mail to the hotel in question. I realize that complaining on social media is becoming more popular, but the ease of it often makes business more dismissive of it. For a long time I remember Wynn’s Twitter feed getting filled with complaints. And the response to each was “call us”. I mean… they can’t very well fix things over Twitter (or even Facebook). Do one better and write them and you might be surprised at how they’ll work to make it up to you!

Membership Update – We’re a few weeks away from going to a paid subscriber model for the newsletter. Unquestionably, our information and advice improves your Las Vegas vacations. When you know what is happening, where the deals are, how not to get ripped off and similar, you maximize the time you have here (which doesn’t come cheap when you factor in air and hotel costs).áThe price will be less than $2 a month ($23.95 per year). That’s less than the price of a soda and candy bar at your local mini-mart.

Why this change when we’ve been free for so long? Simple: When I started in 1999, there really wasn’t that much Vegas news to sift through (and the newsletter was much shorter). Over the years, the time it takes to read all the papers, magazines, blogs, news feeds, press releases and similar and distill it all for you has grown intense.

AccessVegas.com has suffered because of our attention to the newsletter. (For example, we just finally got a mobile version going, something we should have done two years ago). While we keep the site updated, the look and usability if more 1997 (when we launched) then 2011. We can’t do a really great job at both the site and newsletter with present staffing, and the site is our flagship.

This left me with two options:

1. I could radically reduce the scope of the newsletter and quit writing my parts so I can work on the revitalization of Access Vegas. You can get generic Vegas news from a million places now (if you have a zillion hours of free time on your hands each week to sift through it all). But, your feedback indicates that the key reasons you read are for my sections and because we distill down to all the important info. Or…

2. We can ask everyone to pitch in a couple of lousy dollars per month and not only continue what we do, but expand on it with special “members only” features we’d like to add over the course of the next year. We’d like to better address many of the common questions you have (which takes research time).áWe have a killer idea for a specialized app that will save you tons while you are in town. It will be free to paid subscribers. (If you aren’t an app type of person, you’ll have access to the information online in a members area so you can print it out and bring it along, or surf it on your phone or iPad).

We’ll also promise a personal response when a paid subscriber writes us with a Vegas question, which we don’t have the staff to do now (especially on stuff that has to be researched). We have the connections to get the right answers on stuff we don’t know off the top of our head. But not always the time to do so.

Hence, we’re going with option #2. We love helping you guys out. We just need a little help from you to do it properly.

Thanks in advance for your support!

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

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
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More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

 

 

 

 

 

 

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 8, 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! 16 years, baby. 16 years. April 2009 is marking my 16’th year here in Las Vegas. I moved from the beautiful (but all too often overcast and rainy) Pacific Northwest near Portland, Oregon and never returned. I’ve been publishing this newsletter for nearly 10 of those years. Next year marks the 10 year anniversary of thisá AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe (which started as Las Vegas News and Reviews).

Far too many memories to list on one page, but rarely a dull moment. I was the last civilian (non-hotel or demolition employee) to step foot in the infamous Copa Room at The Sands. More recently, in line behind Andrew “Dice” Clay at a local convenience store (very surreal). In-between, things like heckling Carrot Top from the first row (he actually puts on a really good show) to a pre-opening visit to the top of The Stratosphere Tower thanks to a cocktail waitress friend who was a charter employee.

I’ve stumbled upon countless movie, TV, music video and commercial shoots (hint, they happen late at night), and seen more live radio and TV broadcasts produced than I can count. One of the more interesting: Don Imus doing his nationwide show from The Mirage in the mid-90’s, interviewing Steve Wynn at 4 AM (7 AM east coast time) in front of a crowd of bleary-eyed ápeople who had been up all night and were still boozing. Plus, more “What Happens In Vegas” moments than I can count. (Once again, best time for these sightings is well after midnight).

Here’s to the future and my continued quest to make you, our loyal readers, the best-informed Las Vegas visitors possible!

Dixie’s Dam Bar At Hooters Las Vegas – Over the past few years, a theme has developed in the massive amount of feedback we get from you, our readers. That theme? What happened to the old Las Vegas? I don’t want to go to a club with a dress code I’ll never meet and then have to pay $400 for “bottle service” just so I can have a table.

Dixie’s Dam Bar at Hooters is open Wed. – Sun. starting at 9 PM with no bottle service, no attitudes, and the Dixie’s Diva’s to pour you the drinks when they aren’t dancing on the bar. Cover is $20, a small price to pay for a night of unrestrained, unpretentious fun.

Dixie's Dam Bar at Hooters Hotel Las Vegas

Dixie's Dam Bar at Hooters Hotel Las Vegas

Dixie's Dam Bar at Hooters Hotel Las Vegas

Click on any of the above photos to view the entire Dixie’s Dam Bar at Hooters Las Vegas photo set.

Smoke ‘Em If You Got Em – The Nevada State Legislature is currently in the process of taking the teeth out of much of Nevada’s smoking ban. Specifically allowing smoking (should a business owner choose to do so) anywhere minors are prohibited.

This would allow both local bars and hotel casinos to allow smoking in areas where they have food service (at their discretion). IE, if a hotel restaurant saw fit to allow smoking at a restaurant baráand were willing to enclose it — probably with glass — to separate it from a main dining area where minors would be allowed, they would be able to do so.

If you wish to write our legislators (on either side of this issue), the following two gentlemen represent the area of the Las Vegas Strip:

Keep it brief and polite, represent yourself as a regular Las Vegas visitor, and let them know your feelings regarding loosening the smoking ban.

End Of An Era – Folies Bergere bowed out after 49 years of being a Las Vegas staple. Our local paper did a great photo feature of closing night: http://www.reviewjournal.com/media/slideshow/folies_finale_032809/

Earth Hour – Some of you may have read how most of the hotels along the Las Vegas Strip turned off their outside lighting for an hour in honor of Earth Hour a couple of weeks go. We didn’t cover it, nor will we if they do it again.

Over the years, the lights have been dimmed (usually for about 15 minutes) to honor the death of people ranging fromáU.S. Presidents to members of the Rat Pack. The lights were dimmed after 9/11 in honor of the victims as well. I believe this exercise should ONLY be reserved only as a special honor in similar situations.

I’m also concerned that between smoking bans and Earth Hour celebrations, Las Vegas is gaining a reputation for political correctness. Which is NOT why people come and visit.

Even if you recycle, carpool, watch your use of natural resources, drive an efficient car and other “earth friendly” activities, Las Vegas allows you to spend a few days tossing caution to the wind. At time to cut loose. Eat and drink a little too much. Use some electricity (or watch the hotels use it) purely for your enjoyment. Trust me… the earth will survive your visit to Las Vegas.

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 $25, Fitzgeralds from $34, Hooters from $25, Orleans from $35, Riviera from $56, Sahara from $28, Stratosphere from $40, Tropicana from $40, Tuscany from $39, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Legendary Guitarist Carlos Santana Launches First Rock Residency Show In Las Vegas At The Joint At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Signing on as the first rock and roll resident artist in Las Vegas, Carlos Santana brings his legendary talent to The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino through a multi-year deal with AEG Live. Through 2010, The Joint will be the only place west of the Mississippi where fans can see Santana perform. Titled to pay homage to his most successful body of work to date, Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits debuts on Wednesday May 27 and features the artist’s signature fusion sound in a show designed exclusively for the new venue.

Vegas’ Sexiest Show Begins Preview Performances Peepshow Starring Mel B. Costarring Kelly Monaco – PEEPSHOW, the new, sophisticated, ultra-hot show begins preview performances this week at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Pop superstar Mel B (of the world famous Spice Girls) stars with General Hospital’s Kelly Monaco (“Dancing with the Stars” champion) and The Strip’s hottest dancers in this spectacular world premiere. In PEEPSHOW, Mel B. will originate the role of the mistress of ceremonies, the “Peep Diva.” Kelly Monaco will take the stage as “Bo Peep,” a timid girl who the Diva guides in her transformation into a confident, sensual woman. Alongside Mel B. & Kelly is a sizzling ensemble of sexy PEEPSHOW GIRLS, showstoppers from film, TV, Broadway and beyond who were handpicked to complete a highly-skilled, voluptuous cast unlike any other on The Strip.

Jimmy Buffett And The Coral Reefer Band Summerzcool Tour 2009 – Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band return to Las Vegas for one remarkable performance at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, May 16 as part of Jimmy Buffett’s “Summerzcool” Tour 2009. Tickets go on-sale Monday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. Parrotheads won’t want to miss their chance to soak in the full Margaritaville experience.

Keith Urban To Bring His “Escape Together World Tour” To Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 18 – As if a night with Grammy Award-winner Keith Urban isn’t enough, now comes word that Urban’s “Escape Together World Tour” will feature the legendary Glen Campbell. Urban, one of the industry’s most explosive and critically hailed live acts, and Campbell will perform at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 18.

Metallica To Bring “World Magnetic Tour” To Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, December 5 – Following a triumphant summer European tour, Metallica will return to rock North America this fall for the second leg of its “World Magnetic Tour.” The multi-platinum hard-rock band will perform later this year throughout the United States and Canada and will include a stop at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, Dec. 5.

Paul Anka Returns To The Orleans Showroom May 8-10 – With more than 125 albums, 15 million records sold and 22 Top 20 hits, Paul Anka has been one of the most influential voices in pop music since emerging as a teen idol in the 1950s. On May 8, 9 and 10, Anka will be bringing his incomparable sound to The Orleans Showroom for a three-night engagement.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Love your newsletter. I had a question. Have you seen the table game limits coming down in this economy? I’ve been visiting Vegas for 20 years now. One of the things I used to love was the ability to walk up and down the strip and stop in at a variety of difference casinos and find $5 craps and blackjack tables.

In the past 5 years or so I noticed all the minimums are $10 and your hard press to find $5 tables. I feel am an average gambler and would think I’m not the only one who would like to see the limits back down around $5.

Keep up the good work,

Randy

Ted Responds:

We had a Members Mania letter about this a few months ago. Certainly a topic that people continue to wonder about.

We have heard word of table minimums coming down on The Strip here and there but no major trend we can see as of yet.

We encourage people to gamble downtown where the minimums are still lower and rules still tend to be more favorable to the player.

It is interesting that gaming wins (what the casinos win in total) here in Nevada are plummeting. Execs are blaming it on the economy. But perhaps they are simply making games too expensive or unfavorable for the millions like yourself who will gladly risk your money for hours on end. IF you can do so at reasonable minimums.

Thanks for reading and telling your friends to subscribe. We are a small company that relies on word-of-mouth!

What is the appropriate amount to tip for valet? Does it depend on the hotel? Should you tip when you drop off the car, or pick it up, or both?

Thanks,

Maureen

Ted Responds:

One dollar when you drop it off is a nice token and two when you pick it up is satisfactory. I’d (more or less) double that at the high end hotels and/or if it is really, really busy. Also, the amount of time they take to retrieve your car should come into play. A little more if they are quick, less if it takes forever.

If you drive up to a hotel you aren’t staying at and they have a sign indicating valet for hotel guests only (or Valet Full), you’ll find out that a $10 bill will usually magically make the valet a little less full. IE, they will take your car.

Me? I usually skip the valet and do a little-known parking garage trick: Simply drive to one of the top floors of the parking garage where you’ll usually find plenty of parking within a few feet of the elevator. Sure, you spend an extra 30 seconds driving up a couple extra floors. But you’ll more than make up for the time by not circling a lower level floor looking for a space or having to park a long walk from the elevator. Plus, the view from the top floors of some of the parking garages are pretty cool!

My extra-top-secret Las Vegas Strip parking tip which I noted here a few years ago? The Casino Royale (just north of Harrah’s) has a four floor public parking garage right behind their little casino. The garage is open to the public and literally a 30 second walk from the Las Vegas Strip sidewalk.

Hope this all helps!

Hi! I read your newsletter all the time. We just LOVE Vegas and love to get all the news when we can’t be there in person. We will be coming for a visit next month and have heard recently that the casinos have stopped serving free alcoholic beverages while you’re playing. Just wondering if this is true?

Thanks,

Kristy

Ted Responds:

A few hotels have toyed with not serving video poker players free drinks at the bar unless someone is playing $1 level or more. Also, if you are playing penny slots and literally playing only a few pennies at a time, you might not get served.

Overall, casinos are continuing to serve free drinks to players.

If you ever get refused a free drink while gambling a “normal” amount of money (IE, not trying to scam a drink while only betting one nickel at a time or playing video poker one quarter at a time), cash out and move to another casino.

LOVE you guys. Having a family reunion next weekend in Las Vegas and forwarded your newsletter to everyone who’s going.

Absolutely the best source of Las Vegas information out there!

Keep on keepin’ on!

Johanna Greenfield

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:

  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 23-25 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4
  • 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

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!

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 5, 2008

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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! We took a little time off to let you get the U.S. elections out of your system. Regardless of who you voted for, am I the only one that could go the rest of my life without seeing a campaign commercial again?!?

Venetian Bankruptcy – Some of you may have heard that Venetian/Palazzo parent company Las Vegas Sands is close to bankruptcy. Please hold the “We have reservations there, will they be open” questions. Just as many major U.S. airlines have continued to operate while in and out of bankruptcy, the odds of the Venetian closing down are about the same as the sun rising in the west tomorrow morning. At worst, they will restructure, perhaps give up part of the company to an investment group, and continue on.

Not Your Grandfather’s El Cortez – Interesting recent article about how the El Cortez downtown (which finished major improvements within the past year) and how they are keeping their table game rules liberal (to the player’s chance to win) while remaining a small, family-owned property. Article at Overseeing an evolution – Executive aims to lead El Cortez from storied past into stellar future

Visitors, Open Up Your Wallet – 100,000 signatures were gathers to encourage the Nevada State Legislature to up the room tax another 3% to pay for education. This at a time when many of you are having to dig deeper into your pocket to visit us in the first place. Many locals (especially those not long-time residents) don’t seem to understand that you spend a lot of time, money, and effort to come visit us year-in and year-out. You work hard for your money, and have plenty of vacation options.

Nevadan’s need to quit taking it for granted that tourism will always be strong (let alone continue to grow… as tourism growth is flat). For the record, I was approached outside of a local Albertsons grocery store to sign the petition. I declined. With Clark County (Las Vegas) school district enrollment flat, they can take projected construction and new teacher spending off-the-board and use the money to pay the present teachers if needed.

Anyone Miss The Stardust? – Construction on Echelon Place (a name that still just doesn’t do anything for me) has been delayed until at least 2009. Even in the best of times, I was curious about how The Strip was going to absorb a truckload of high-end places like The Plaza (former Frontier site), CityCenter, and Echelon. The question is whether it will ever absorb that many upscale rooms even in good times.

Behind The Scenes At A Sportsbook – Ever wonder how the lines are set, who the house wants to win and generally what happens on an average day setting the line at a sports book? The Review-Journal had a really interesting recent article NFL Sundays keep book director busy – Even ‘light’ days add up to heavy wagering

McCarran Traffic Down, What Does It Mean? – Traffic at Las Vegas’ McCarran Airport is down 13% from last year, but those figures are misleading. Tourism remains steady. With the local economy (especially that not based on tourism) doing poorly, you have fewer local residents making flights.

International travel is bucking the trend. Traffic into Terminal Two (the dump of a terminal that some charter and all international visitors have to suffer though) has traffic numbers up almost 6% over last year. Canadian based WestJet is up almost 60% on the year. This all no surprise to us as we count a large number of Canadian, European and even Mexican visitors among our readers. With domestic fuel prices coming down, we hope that once again soon it will be more economical for U.S. residents to visit just as often!

Stomp Out Loud To Close – For now, anyway. Stomp has had a great run at Planet Hollywood but was somewhat cursed by playing in a 1500 seat theatre (larger than many of the major production shows playing on The Strip). The economics of filling a venue that large are tough, even for a well-liked show. Stomp may resurface here as the producers note they are looking at other venues better suited for the production.

Stomp is an amazing show of unique nonstop energy and well worth seeing before the run ends at the end of the year. Visit our review Stomp Out Loud – A Journey Through Rhythm and Percussion to decide for yourself if this is a show you would enjoy.

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:

California from $39, Fremont from $39, Gold Coast from $38, Main Street from $39, Orleans from $42, Sam’s Town from $28, Sun Coast from $63, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

TBS Presents A “Very Funny” Festival: The Comedy Festival – TBS Lines Up More than 25 Comics for LOL Lounge And Brings Excitement of THE COMEDY FESTIVAL Live Online For The First Time Ever. Unprecedented Online Coverage of Event to Utilize Cutting-Edge Technology, Allowing Users to Interact with Web Show Hosts and Comics. THE COMEDY FESTIVAL, a Co-Production with AEG Live, Returns to Caesars Palace in Las Vegas For Fourth Year Thursday, Nov. 20, through Saturday, Nov. 22. (Tickets) Click to Read The Full Story …

Pianist Philip Fortenberry Of “Jersey Boys” Debuts “Liberace and Me” Cabaret Performance For Limited Engagement At Liberace Museum – Philip Fortenberry, a solo pianist, improvisational composer and cast member of “Jersey Boys,” has debuted his new intimate acoustic cabaret-style piano performance, “Liberace and Me,” for a limited engagement at the Liberace Museum. “Liberace and Me,” conceived and written by Fortenberry, offers a loving respect for the spirit and legacy of Liberace and the impact he had in Fortenberry’s life and career. Fortenberry opens his engaging performance with Liberace’s signature arrangement of “Chopsticks,” while seated at Mr. Showmanship’s own nine-foot Concert Grand Baldwin. Click to Read The Full Story …

Frank Caliendo Performs His Hilarious Stand-Up At Treasure Island Friday, November 28 – Comedian, impressionist and actor Frank Caliendo will perform his stand-up comedy routine Friday, November 28 at 8 p.m. (Tickets) Star of “Frank TV,” Caliendo will perform a one-night only engagement inside the Treasure Island Theatre. In 2007, Caliendo created “Frank TV,” a comedy based on his impressions of famous personalities such as Robert DeNiro, Robin Williams, Al Pacino, John Madden and George W. Bush. The side-splitting show is an extension of his popular sketch comedy routine. Click to Read The Full Story …

Do Si Don’t Miss the 22nd Annual Downtown Hoedown at Fremont Street Experience – The Fremont Street Experience is going country for the kickoff party for the National Finals Rodeo (Tickets) on Wednesday, December 3. The stompin’ shindig will feature free live concerts and plenty of two-steppin’ fun. The 22nd Annual Downtown Hoedown brings a rollicking entertainment lineup to Fremont Street with top country music talents Lady Antebellum, Heidi Newfield, The Road Hammers and Mark Chesnutt.The performance schedule is as follows: 1st Street Stage * Lady Antebellum, 6-8 p.m. * Heidi Newfield, 9-11p.m. 3rd Street Stage * The Road Hammers, 6-8 p.m. * Mark Chesnutt, 9-11 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Celebrates Expansion Milestone With Topping Off Ceremony For New North Tower – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino hosted its topping-off ceremony for the new North Tower Friday, Oct. 24. A crane lifted the traditional evergreen tree and American flag to the top of the structure as hundreds of team members, executives and construction workers looked on “This is a monumental occasion for the Hard Rock, and we are very pleased to celebrate this expansion milestone,” said Yale Rowe, senior vice president and general manager of operations for the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “We have great faith in the resiliency of Las Vegas and while much of our attention is focused on current market conditions, we continue to position the Hard Rock for the future. We are fortunate to be well-funded with partners who have not wavered in their commitment to the redevelopment of the Hard Rock.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hang tough… we know that many of you love this section where I answer readers questions and give my personal advice and insight as only a long time Las Vegas resident in my business can do!

However… I am also a working member of our AccessVegas.com team and we’ve been cooking up some great new resources. These are in beta (design not finished) for the next two weeks, but take a peek and see what you think:

  • Easy Vegas Deals – We are starting to post every deal we see or get our hands on when they happen, in real time at our new EasyVegasDeals.com blog. Food specials the hotels send us, both Vegas Strip and Locals casino deals, food, gaming, arts, events, you name it! For the most part, we are just looking to post good and interesting deals. Whether it be a blowout (dollar drinks somewhere) or a significant discount on fine dining or a fun, free event. Note: Site in beta and will not be updated daily until November 15.P.S. If you see deals we have not posted or enjoyed a great Vegas food, drink, or entertainment special on your last trip, drop us a line at allvegastv@aol.com so we can let everyone know!
  • AAA Vegas News Blog – We’ve started posting all of the casino releases and news we publish here to our new AAAVegas.com blog. This is your one-stop source for all of the Las Vegas hotel and resort news as it breaks every day! Note: Site in beta and will not be updated daily until November 15.
  • AccessVegas.com Twitter – We are joining the ranks of those with a AccessVegas.com Twitter feed. No, we aren’t going to tweet (post to Twitter) every single piece of news and deals. For that, you’ll want to subscribe to the RSS feeds of the new blogs (see above). However, we’ll be twittering the bigger, more interesting, and more special news and deals!

Don’t Know Twitter From Tweety Bird… RSS From R&B? – Have no fear. As always, ALL news, deals, and other interesting information will continue to be published in this newsletter in our More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events newsletter area (next section down in this issue).

However, we now have a way for those that want specific news delivered in specific ways to access it quicker without abandoning our core way of getting the very best Las Vegas news and deals to you on a regular basis.

As always, thank you very much for reading and telling your friends to subscribe at AccessVegas.com

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

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

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

November 5, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 17, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Appreciate the notes regarding me missing last issue for medical reasons. I’m on the mend (knock on wood) and looking forward to getting back to work on a regular basis.

Wayne Newton Returns With New Las Vegas Dates – Wayne Newton adds October 16 û 22 and November 13 û 19 dates to his performance schedule at the Hollywood Theatre inside MGM Grand. Show time is 8:30 p.m. nightly. My advice? If you are going to be in town, see the show.á

Sure… his voice isn’t what it used to be. But he’s still the consummate showman, performs with a full band, and one of the few ties to the glamor and “Rat Pack” days of Las Vegas. He’s going strong after a health scare last year and we wish him many years of health, but he’s not going to be performing forever. Click for Wayne Newton Tickets (Las Vegas and other cities).

MGM CityCenter Continues To Draw Interest – We keep getting questions about CityCenter and visitors continue to marvel at how fast it is rising on the Las Vegas Strip. For new readers (or those who missed it last time), here’s some of the basics from developer MGM Grand:

ARIA Resort & Casino will be the spectacular gaming resort that will form the core of CityCenter, a more than $8 billion dazzling vertical city currently underway on the Las Vegas Strip next to Bellagio. Opening in late 2009, ARIA will deliver an unprecedented combination of striking architecture, sustainable design, high-end service and spectacular amenities, introducing a new generation of resort experiences and redefining the Las Vegas skyline. I’d love to work with you on a story to introduce ARIA Resort & Casino.

Designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, the dramatic soaring 61-story hotel tower, casino and convention center will be CityCenter’s most iconic feature. CityCenter also will feature three luxurious non-gaming hotels: Las Vegas’ first Mandarin Oriental, The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences and Vdara Condo Hotel; Veer Towers, the development’s only strictly residential buildings; The Crystals, a 500,000-square-foot retail and entertainment district; and a $40 million public Fine Art Program that will deliver new works of art and iconic pieces by the likes of Maya Lin, Nancy Rubins and Claes Oldenburg, among others.

From luxurious accommodations and entertainment to sophisticated retail and fine art, CityCenter will raise Las Vegas’ amenities and offerings to unparalleled heights and capture the world’s attention as the must-see, must-experience destination across the globe when it opens in late 2009.

Long Live Laughlin – (From the Review-Journal). The latest gambit by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority to revive interest in isolated Laughlin is a $2.5 million outreach effort in California and Arizona.

It emphasizes the opportunity for visitors to spend time drinking, gambling and partying along the Colorado River at a fraction of what it costs to let loose in Las Vegas.

The ads are aimed at the 40- to 60-year-old demographic of people who, market researchers say, have disposable income but are wary of overspending. The average daily room rate in Laughlin was $46.87 in July, compared to $105.97 in Las Vegas, according to the latest Southern Nevada visitation reports.

Families Not Moving To Las Vegas? 5000 people (give or take) continue to relocate here each month. Despite the continued influx, local school enrollment is up ájust 0.3 percent over last year (basically flat) as those in construction and illegal aliens (sometimes one in the same) with families flee town for work elsewhere.á

This lack of school district growth should flatten out the school district budget needs and (hopefully) quiet some of the “tax the tourists for schools” talk which keeps floating around.

US 93 Widening Is On – Our friends from Los Angeles take it for granted that the ride to Las Vegas is all-freeway. Sometimes a very crowded freeway, but still all prime road. However, our friends who drive ináfrom Arizona, New Mexico and points southeast of Las Vegas don’t have it so good with long stretches of two-lane road during the final trek.

That is changing! Many know that the Hoover Dam bypass bridge is moving along and funding has just been secured to four-lane the 15 miles of US 93 leading up to the bridge (on the Arizona side). Also, talks are getting more serious about a Boulder City bypass which could shed significant time off the journey.

Complimentary First Month With Netflix – I’ve been a Netflix subscriber for a long time, and love it! No due dates, no late fees, and I don’t even have to turn on my car to get (or drop off) a video. Now, you can even watch many of their selections on your computer “on demand” in high quality video (looks great even on the computer connected to my big flat screen).

They want to give all of our U.S. readers one complimentary month to check the service out. Head over to Netflix One Month Complimentary Membership

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:

California from $45, Fremont from $38, Gold Coast from $33, Main Street from $38, Orleans from $45, Sam’s Town from $29, Sun Coast from $50, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Ultimate Fighting Championship Presents UFC 91: Randy “The Natural” Couture Vs. Brock Lesnar For The UFC World Heavyweight Championship Saturday, November 15 At MGM Grand – On November 15, the champ is back. Following a one-year hiatus from the sport, UFC« heavyweight champion Randy “The Natural” Couture will make his long-awaited return to the Octagon to defend his title against rising star Brock Lesnar. (Tickets) This championship bout, the biggest heavyweight title fight in years and a clash of titans destined to shake the foundations of the sport, will headline UFC 91: COUTURE vs. LESNAR, live Saturday, Nov. 15 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Click to Read The Full Story …

Morton’s The Steakhouse Las Vegas General Manager Daniel Hurst (left) presents Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman with a wine locker and his favorite “spirit,” Bombay Sapphire Gin, at the Morton’s Grand Opening of Bar 12-21. Goodman hosted the grand opening, which was complete with a Las Vegas Showgirl, the debut of the Mayor’s “Oscartini” martini and a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Hypnomagician Keith Barry To Dazzle Audiences At Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino – Psychological Magician and Hypnotist Performs Live In Las Vegas October 28 û November 27. Tickets are on sale now for the limited engagement of Keith Barry: Hypnomagician at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Keith, a European superstar mind illusionist who first astonished U.S. audiences with his celebrity-filled hour-long magic TV special for CBS brings his dazzling blend of magic, illusions and hypnosis to the American stage for the first time October 28 through November 27 at the Planet Hollywood Showroom. Click to Read The Full Story …

Texas de Brazil Opened First Las Vegas Location On Sept.10 – Combining the bold flavors of Southern Brazil with the generous spirit of Texas, Texas de Brazil opened its doors on Wed, Sept. 10 in Town Square Las Vegas. The Las Vegas location marks the restaurant’s 14 location worldwide. “Texas de Brazil is a perfect complement to Town Square and a great spot to try a traditional Brazilian ‘Churrascaria,’ (steakhouse)” said David Parra general manager. “We are eager to provide our guests with beautiful rustic ambiance, flavorful food and unparalleled service.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Fright Dome Prepares To Scare At Circus Circus Las Vegas – Nationally rated Halloween attraction to open at the Adventuredome October 3. Halloween festivities in Las Vegas officially begin at 7 p.m. October 3 when The Adventuredome at Circus Circus reanimates into its sinister alter ego, Fright Dome. Opening weekend festivities include special guest appearances by Sid Haig, who appeared as Captain Spaulding in Rob Zombie’s “House of 1,000 Corpses” and “The Devil’s Reject” horror classics, and Bill Moseley, who appeared as Otis Driftwood in both films, as well as “Halloween.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Hard Rock ‘Ups The Ante’ With Vegas’ Premier Poker Lounge Providing Bottle Service, Masseuses, And In-Lounge Sports Betting That Players Can’t Get At A Traditional Poker Room – A private bar, bottle service, certified masseuses, music, plush couches, and video poker machinesàsounds more like a nightclub than a traditional poker room. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has created a decadent atmosphere designed with the player’s comfort in mind to attract the world’s top poker players, as well as high-end bachelor parties, and private events, with Las Vegas’ first Poker Lounge. The new 7,000-square foot, first of its kind, Poker Lounge is a full service poker room, with an inviting, lounge feel and the newest addition in the property’s $800 million expansion and renovation. Click to Read The Full Story …

Strip House Introduces Scotch & Steak Flights This Fall – Strip House offers a selection of signature steaks paired with flights of top-shelf Scotches beginning Sept. 22, 2008. Showcasing three different brands from various areas of Scotland, the first flight allows guests to experience a wide range of flavor profiles. Priced at $30, the pairing brings together Strip House’s trademark selections with Laphroaig 15 Year Islay Single Malt, Highland Park 18 Year Orkney Single Malt and Macallan Fine Oak 21 Year Highland Single Malt. Click to Read The Full Story …

Southern Nevada Pug Rescue To Host Seventh Annual Pug-O-Rama Picnic – Southern Nevada Pug Rescue (SNPR), a non-profit organization, will host its seventh annual Pug-O-Rama Picnic on Sunday, October 26, from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Hills Park in Summerlin. The Halloween-themed event will continue to feature costume contests, prizes, raffles, and a silent auction. Pug owners are encouraged to dress up their Pugs, pack a picnic, and enjoy a few hours socializing with other Pug parents. Pug-O-Rama Picnic tickets are available now for $10 per person, $7 for children 6-12, and children 5 and under are free. Click to Read The Full Story …

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See If A Hot Event Is Playing Near You!

Jonas Brothers, Madonna, The Cheetah Girls, ColdPlay, Mary J. Blige, Neil Young, Michael Buble, Celine Dion, Dave Matthews Band, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted,

First, I want to compliment you on your newsletter. I look forward to getting each one of them.

I have been going to Las Vegas at least once a year for about 30 years now and have certainly seen the change from ‘the old’ Las Vegas to what it is now. It seems that the “new” Las Vegas wants to cater to the Hollywood types who expect to have their stays comped to the richer people who can afford to pay the extremely high food costs and room costs. I have reservations to go again this year for a week but am thinking about not going again as I don’t like the ‘new’ Las Vegas.á

I liked the old slot machines where the reels went around and around and you knew what would pay and what wouldn’t. I don’t like the new type of slot machines where it has a line going all over the screen and I never understand what pays and what doesn’t.

With the large, nice casino’s the foot traffic down around New York, New York, MGM Grand, Paris, etc you cant even walk down the sidewalk except to get behind someone and just walk at their pace.

Maybe the owners of these places will get the message on their tight machines and things but I doubt if I will ever go back out there to know what happens.

Clearnce Fakes

á

Ted Responds:

I also won’t touch the new slots. I don’t have the time to figure them out and don’t want to play a game unless I know what is going on. They were put in place so you could play anywhere from a penny to a couple of dollars per play on the same game (and to divert your attention to how fast they were sucking down your cash).

The “new” Las Vegas does have plenty to offer, see, and do. But I continue to suggest that people yearning for the “old” Las Vegas try a stay downtown. It will be easier on your budget and you’ll probably have a better shot at winning. Plus, poke around and you just may find some of the older slot games you prefer at downtown casinos!

Dear Ted,

I just returned from my 24th visit to Vegas and had a wonderful time as usual. I stayed at the Flamingo and was really happy with the friendly desk staff, cage personnel, restaurant staff at the Tropical Breeze, and all the Harrahs employees at all the Vegas properties I visited.

I saw three fun and entertaining shows, The Price is Right Live, Nathan Burton and The Vinnie Favorito show. The Price is Right was the most fun I’ve ever had at a Vegas show. I was however subjected to the absolute worst show I have ever seen in Vegas. I went to the X-Burlesque show at the Flamingo expecting to see a tribute to burlesque. This fiasco was anything but a tribute. The music was bad and much too loud, the dancing was awful and the girls were very unattractive except for two of the six girls. This show was nothing like it was advertised and an embarrassment. I have seen Jubilee and Crazy Girls and both of these shows were top notch. X- Burlesque was a disappointing waste of money.á

Despite this disappointment Vegas was as usual a spectacular time and as usual I saw things that weren’t there just a year ago.

Michael from Lowell, Indiana

Back in May/June I read somewhere that HooterÆs was being sold. I was wondering if you had any info on what has happened to that transaction. Did it fall through?

I am curious as we are staying there 8/22 for 2 nights for our nephewÆs 21’st birthday. Our first stay was last Thanksgiving & we had a lovely stay in one of the Bungalow rooms and we would like to stay there again this Thanksgiving.

I enjoy accessvegas.com newsletter very much. Thank you.

Shannon from Costa Mesa, CA

á

Ted Responds:

The sale fell through due to the trouble obtaining financing in the present economy. Hooters is operating as normal and recently added a new country music bar with live music and no cover. Also, both The Mentalist: Gerry McCambridge and Bobby “The Pitbull Of Comedy” Slayton continue to perform (both of which are great shows).

Thanks for reading and telling your friends!

Hi, I haven’t been to Vegas for a couple of years. I will be visiting soon for 4 days. What new things should I see? Thanks for any advise!

Gary Nawrocki

á

Ted Responds:

That would take hours to answer. However, you can go to our newsletter archives at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com and get up to speed on all of the great, new things to do and see.

Scroll down the right-hand sidebar and you’ll see links to monthly archives of the newsletter. Work your way through those and you’ll be up to speed on all the new stuff from the past couple of years!

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

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

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

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

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

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

September 17, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy