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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 16, 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! Well… we’ve escaped the triple digit temperatures. Until now. The next week or so will bring constant daily temperatures of 110 (F). Hard to complain as we’ve really had some pretty nice, moderate weather the past few months. However, if you are coming to town the next few weeks, two very strong words of advice:

  • Go nuts with the sunscreen, and I mean the 30 SPF stuff. Apply often. Las Vegas sits at 2000 feet above sea level, which makes the impact from the sun’s rays stronger than where many of you live. And… you’ll be in the sun more than you realize you will.
  • Water, water, water, water, water. Drink plenty of it. Dehydration can creep up on you. Here’s what you don’t realize: You perspire here just as much (if not more) than you do at home. However… our dry climate wicks it off your skin so quickly that you often don’t realize it. You are losing far more moisture to the atmosphere than you realize, and if you areáboozing, you are further dehydrating yourself. Nothing wrong with asking for an ice water (with lemon slice, if you prefer) on the side when you order that cocktail, or even that beer. (Yes, beer actually will dehydrate you also).One final note: Our tap water may taste a little different than yours because of all the natural minerals in the Colorado River (our water source) but it is 100% safe to drink. For those who don’t to spend the money on bottled water, better to drink some so-so tasting tap water and stay hydrated than to end up with heat stroke.

Limited Beyonce Tickets Available – Beyonce is performing a series of very intimate shows at Encore (Wynn) July 30 – August 2. Few tickets are left, and they aren’t cheap. BUT… this is a very rare chance to see her take a break from the current arena tour in a special setting. Click for Beyonce at Encore Las Vegas Tickets

Although I’ll comment on local politics from time-to-time, we are not a political newsletter. Having said that, you don’t get to spend time with the mayor everyday and we unearthed some pretty interesting news. If the following isn’t your cup-of-tea, keep scrolling. We have the usual landslide of Las Vegas announcements, deals, and news in this issue!

Governor Goodman? – We enjoyed a nice chat with Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman at “Martini’s With The Mayor” held about a week ago at Hemingway’s Cigar Lounge here in Las Vegas.


Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman smoking a premium hand-rolled cigar. Clark County (Las Vegas) Commissioner Larry Brown seen over the mayors shoulder back against the display case.

When introduced to those gathered with the usual accolades, Mayor Goodman chimed in with “don’t forget, hardest drinking mayor as well!”

I was fortunate enough to spend some one-on-one time and complimented Mr. Goodman on the stance he took when fellow Democrat President Obama gave a speech that pretty much killed the Las Vegas convention business for a number of months. The Mayor took time to tell me the following:

When he and his wife first moved to Las Vegas, they had been registered Republicans. He went to work in a law office that included (eventual) U.S. Senator Richard Bryan and told me that if you lived in Las Vegas and were in the legal field back then, you were a Democrat and that was that.

His (all but officially announced) run for Governor will have him running as an independent. To those who follow Nevada politics, this is politically expedient. The sitting governor is a Republican, and already has a strong primary challenge from former State Senator Dr. Joe Heck. (Disclaimer: I’ve had numerous contacts with Dr. Heck and have the utmost respect for him. I with he’d run for U.S. Senate instead of Governor). On the Democrat side, Rory Reid is the gubernatorial front-runner. (If that name rings a bell, yes… he’s U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s son).

Having said all of that, Mr. Goodman isn’t being disingenuous by running as an independent. He’s never been bound by party. If he’s had to take on the unions or environmentalists, he’s done so despite his official political affiliation. He’s all about Nevada, not political party.

If you are in town on July 31, you can head downtown to Mayor Goodman’s 70’th birthday bash (and most likely the official announcement of his run for governor). We have full details here: Help Celebrate Mayor GoodmanÆs 70th Birthday July 31 2009 At The Fremont Street Experience!

mayor oscar goodman business cardmayor oscar goodman business card
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman’s “business cards” are replicas of $100 chips used in casino table games. (No… mine is NOT for sale.)

Bourbon Street West – Just a couple of years ago, breathy bloggers were claiming that the demolition of the Imperial Palace was imminent. (I’m was on record at the time laughing and saying probably not). Harrah’s (the casino group, not the specific hotel) has announced plans to build a restaurant and bar complex/walk from O’Sheas to The Flamingo along the backside of the properties (think back where the monorail is).

Harrah’s (the hotel) was really the first one to offer a street-type party atmosphere with their wildly successful Carnival Court. The only question: How will they draw people back to this new project? I’m sure they have something up their sleeve…

Take Me Down… To Cabo Wabo – Sammy Hagar is bringing his Cabo Wabo Cantina to the Las Vegas Strip! We’ve heard rumblings for a decade that a Cabo Wabo would be coming to Las Vegas, and it finally looks like the time has come! The are taking over the Trader Vic’s spot at Planet Hollywood.

To be honest, I expected Trader Vic’s to do much better here. Trader Vic’s has locations literally around the world in some of the hottest business and tourist destinations. However, they might not have been a good fit for the current budget-conscious Las Vegas visitor. Cabo Wabo notes: Offering a blend of live music and coastal Mexican fare, Cabo Wabo Cantina will serve up an all-day and all-night party that will guarantee guests a good time at a price that won’t break the budget.

What Gamblers Want – I had to love the following letter to the editor of our local paper. Well worth a read: Casinos learn gamblers want the human touch

P.S. We’ve chosen and emailed the winners for both our Summer of ’69 and Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular contests. You may want to check your spam folder just to make sure you didn’t miss a possible notification.

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 $39, El Cortez from $33, Fitzgeralds from $23, Hooters from $20, Orleans from $27, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $23, Stratosphere from $42, Tropicana from $28, Tuscany from $22, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Crystals At CityCenter Reveals Unparalleled New Collection Of Luxury Retailers And Restaurants – CityCenter, the spectacular multi-use development opening later this year on the Las Vegas Strip, announced today an unparalleled collection of unique luxury retailers and restaurateurs that will join the already outstanding lineup at Crystals. The 500,000 square-foot retail and dining district is certain to become Las Vegas’ premier shopping experience. Opening December 3, Crystals will showcase an unprecedented array of the world’s most exclusive retailers including many flagship stores.

Fremont Street Experience Hosts NASA Astronaut Scott J. Kelly – in Celebration of “One Giant Leap: 40th Anniversary of Moon Landing”

WHAT: Fremont Street Experience will host a special educational forum with NASA Astronaut Scott J. Kelly for students of the Clark County School District on Monday, July 20 and Tuesday, July 21 at the 1st Street Stage area. Kelly will conduct three, one-hour sessions each day at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., discussing his two Space Shuttle missions and including a Q&A portion at the end. The forum will also include items such as a NASA spacesuit and Apollo 11 replica. The public is also welcome to attend.

The schedule is as follows:

WHEN: Monday, July 20 and Tuesday, July 21 À 10 û 11 a.m. À 11:30 û 12:30 p.m. À 1 û 2 p.m. WHERE: 1st Street Stage area at Fremont Street Experience

The Alan Parsons Live Project To Perform At Cannery Casino & Hotel – The Alan Parsons Live Project will perform their hits on Saturday, August 8. The special one-night performance begins with Paramount’s Original Laser Spectacular choreographed to Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side Of The Moon.” The band will continue the show with live performances of the hits of the Alan Parsons Project. The show starts at 8 p.m. and doors open at 7 p.m. British progressive rock band, The Alan Parsons Project, is best known for its complex compilations of instrumentals and revolving lead vocalists.

Hollywood A-Listers And Top Poker Pros Help Raise $362,000 During The 3rd Annual Ante Up For Africa – Actor Don Cheadle and poker pro Annie Duke yesterday co-hosted the third annual Ante Up For Africa tournament, which is hosted on the eve of the World Series of Poker Main Event and since 2007 has raised nearly $2.5 million to build awareness for the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan, and support those who are victimized by it. Everyone who participates in Ante Up For Africa pays a $5,000 entry fee and is encouraged to donate a portion of any winnings for the immediate benefit of ENOUGH and the International Rescue Committee. Last night’s winner û Alex Bolotin of Brooklyn, NY û donated half of his winnings. In all, the third annual Ante Up For Africa raised $362,000.

Gladys Knight Returns To The Orleans Showroom August 7-9 – The legendary “Empress of Soul,” Gladys Knight has had a deep influence on the music world throughout her five-decade career. From August 7-9, Knight will be bringing her one-of-a-kind performance to The Orleans Showroom. Gladys Knight made her solo singing debut at the age of four in a Baptist church in Atlanta. In 1952, shortly after winning a prize for her performance on the televised Ted Mack Amateur Hour, eight-year old Gladys formed The Pips with her brother, sister and two cousins.

Drew Carey And The Improv All Stars To Perform At The Mirage – Stand-up comic, producer and writer Drew Carey, brings his award-winning talent to The Terry Fator Theatre at The Mirage Friday, August 28 and Saturday, August 29 at 10 p.m. Carey is best known for his self-titled series “The Drew Carey Show,” the innovative improv show “Whose Line is it Anyway?,” and for hosting the hit CBS television show “The Price is Right.” Joining Carey is the talented cast of The Improv All Stars: Ryan Stiles, Kathy Kinney, Chip Esten, Jeff Davis, Sean Masterson, Julie Larson and Laura Hall on piano. Carey will start the show with his stand-up comedy, and then the cast will join him onstage for an unscripted, unrehearsed, no-holds-barred laugh fest.

Sean Hannity Hosts Freedom Concert At Orleans Arena August 8 – Talk radio and television personality Sean Hannity will headline the Freedom Concert at the Orleans Arena on August 8, beginning at 8 p.m. All proceeds from the concert series, now in its sixth year, will go toward the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund for the dependents of U.S. military personnel who have been killed or permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident. This year’s concert will feature performances by country music sensations Billy Ray Cyrus and the Charlie Daniels Band, contemporary artist Michael W. Smith, and the legendary Lee Greenwood.

Las Vegas Dinner in the Sky

las vegas dinner in the sky

Dinner in the Sky Las Vegas is the most original fine dining adventure you’ll ever experience! Seated at your dining Sky Table, you’ll float gently into the air to enjoy fine food and wine, surrounded by unique views of the illuminated Las Vegas Strip. Dinner in the Sky is truly a night out in Las Vegas like no other! Click to Book Las Vegas Dinner In The Sky

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!

First off I want to thank you again for the informative newsletter! I got back from a stay at Bellagio May 10-16, and had a great time. I read the comments from the fellow low minimum craps/blackjack player and I wanted to share with him the great help that I had gotten from you. You turned me on to the nextshooter.com website, where I learned that even though you might be staying at one of the nicer strip hotels, you can still find crap tables with a $3 minimum at the Casino Royale, which is right on the strip. They even offered $1 margaritas and $1 Bud in bottles!

Having followed you super-secret parking advice, I was able to leave Bellagio and be at a $3 minimum craps table in a matter of a few minutes! It was the most fun I’ve had playing craps in many years. I’ve been visiting Vegas two or three times a year, for a long time, but recently the fancier hotels have not been offering craps for less than $10 minimum. Maybe they’ll wise up and start listening to your advice. You’re right about word of mouth, I can’t tell you how many folks I’ve told about Casino Royale since I got back two days ago!

I really appreciate the amenities that Bellagio has, such as, the great spa, pool, etc., but as for gambling, I have restricted my gambling to their blackjack machines at the sports bar. (I don’t like machines, but what else could I do?)

Renting the car turned out to be a very good idea this time. I always fly in. But, sometimes I like to get out and take a drive to Red Rock Canyon and really appreciate the clear, quiet of the desert. By the way, for people who like to ride a motorcycle, but have flown in, like I always do, one of the Harley-Davidson dealers rents bikes by the day, week, etc. I thought about it, but it turned out to cost more to rent it for one day than the car rental was for a week!

Dave Durbin

Ted Responds:

red rock canyon las vegas nevadaRed Rock Canyon is one of the amazing desert scenery locations within 30 minutes of The Strip, and a must-see for the regular visitor. We’ve mapped it on Google maps: Las Vegas Strip to Red Rock Canyon. Still not sure if worth the visit? Check out our Red Rock Canyon Photo Gallery!

The parking secret tip that Dave was referring to was one I noted a few months ago: Directly behind the Casino Royale sits a four floor parking garage that always has plenty of room (except on New Years Eve).

Because the casino is so small, it is less than a 30 second walk from the parking garage to the sidewalk on The Strip. Now… there are signs that note parking is for Casino Royale patrons only. So grab a drink at the bar or drop a buck in a slot machine. They don’t have people monitoring who is parking and where they go, but tossing them a couple of bucks for the ease of parking is a small price to pay. We park there when heading to Venetian (right next door). Beats the heck out of trying to navigate the Venetian garage and the walk along the front of (and into) The Venetian on foot is a true pleasure.

Love your newsletter! My friend and I will be coming to Vegas. We will be staying at Wynn. Unfortunately, we wanted to see Danny Gans again. I am not for sure if anyone will be in that showroom when we are there. We have seen so many of the other shows in years past. Do you have any suggestion for a new good show?

Thanks,

Sara from Houston, Texas

Ted Responds:

Various touring artists are being added to the Encore schedule (as we’ve noted with Beyonce), and this was already in the works before Danny died.

For the money, Larry G. Jones is an excellent “Danny Gans” style performer: http://www.larrygjones.com

Terry Fator is knocking them dead, and Lion King has opened strong. Although not new, Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular sounds like it may be along the lines of what you are looking for.

A long time ago, i used to take a free shuttle to The Rio from the Strip but last time i went (4 years ago) i couldn’t find the spot. Do you have this information? i will be there next September 11th.

Monique Lavigne from Canada

Ted Responds:

Shuttle information changes from time-to-time, which is why we don’t attempt to keep of list of their schedules. (If you print out a shuttle schedule, it may be out of date when you arrive here). My advice? Call The Rio when you get to town. Sam’s Town, Orleans, Gold Coast and M Resort also have free shuttles to their properties and a quick phone call to the resorts in question will get you pick-up locations and times.

My mother turns 50 in January of 2011 and we have decided to go to Las Vegas to celebrate her birthday (what better way to take her mind off the big 5-0 than distract her with the excitement of Las Vegas). There will be 12 of us going so we will need 6 hotel rooms. Is there a way to get a cheaper rate for hotel rooms or flights when you are booking for this many at once? Just want to do as much research this far in advance cause the more we can save the more we’ll have to spend when we get there! Thanks for your help.

Heather

Ted Responds:

Generally speaking, anything over 10 rooms is a group rate situation.

Regardless of how large (or not) your Vegas-bound group is, call our friends i4Vegas.com at (800) 442-4002, tell them you are an Access Vegas reader, and ask about group rates. Tell them how many rooms you need and what either your price range is or any hotels you have in mind. They should be able to do something really great for any of our readers who call! Because they contract with hotels to buy big blocks of rooms, they can provide for just about any size group and pass along the bulk rate savings to you and your party.

Hope this helps. Make sure to tell everyone coming to subscribe to our newsletter to keep up on Vegas!

Was in Las Vegas May 17-21, and stayed downtown at the Four Queens. I enjoyed staying downtown and not having to walk forever to get anywhere. There were some very good food deals downtown also. Getting to the strip one day was no problem (I was traveling alone and time was not an issue so I used the Sam’s Town shuttle) and I realized how good downtown was after going back down that day to the strip and getting worn out from all the walking.

Sure there is not the glitz and glamor of the strip, but there are street bands and the Fremont Street experience, and no porn slappers downtown. I will definitely stay downtown again the next time I go to Las Vegas.

M. Jones from Grand Island, NE

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
  • Independence Day July 4

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 15, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 14, 2008

Posted on by

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! – Winter is finally over here in the beautiful Desert Southwest. I just got back from a walk in the 65 degree (F) sun, wearing shorts and a short-sleeved shirt. If winter is in full swing where you are, come on out and visit. Our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals have unbelievably low room rates ranging from basic rooms at $25-30 a night to the very top hotels in Las Vegas (and in the world, for that matter) for under $200 a night. And… last I checked, airfare is down a bit.

I’m not surprised. The past few years, many of you have written and said “Las Vegas no longer caters to the middle class” and has gotten too expensive. Time and time again in this newsletter, I simply said: Give it time. All of these posh new hotel rooms are going to have to be filled and the rates will be adjusted to fill them. I said how Las Vegas will again be an incredible bargain with the ability to rent rooms for a fraction of what a similar hotel room would go for in another city. (Check out what $100 a night will get you in New York or San Francisco, then what it will buy you in Las Vegas right now).

Yes, times are tight right now. If you are in a very unfortunate job or financial situation and a trip just isn’t in the cards, by all means stay subscribed and we’ll bring a little bit of Las Vegas to you each week until you can come back and see us again. But if you even have a few bucks to spend, come on out and enjoy a few days. Nothing takes your mind off of things like a visit to Las Vegas.

Largest Hotel In the World Coming To Las Vegas! – Oh please… how many times have I typed (and mocked) this headline. And yet another group is claiming that they are going to do just this:

A 6,745 room, four tower hotel. And… not even on The Strip. Instead next to the Hard Rock Hotel (on the site of George Clooney’s project that never got off the ground… and that was in good economic times). Bottom Line: If this thing actually goes somewhere, I wish the developers well and (as always) we’ll keep you up-to-date on the progress.

las vegas wetlands park
Photo Courtesy Access Clark County (government)

Las Vegas Wetlands Park – Wetlands in Las Vegas? You bet! Now… if you are in town for a few days to see how much drinking and gambling you can accomplish, this might not be for you. However… if a local or a tourist who enjoys renting a car and seeing things like Red Rock Canyon, you may find the Las Vegas Wetlands a fun adventure for a couple of hours.

The Las Vegas Wash (a wash is what we call a creek here in the desert) has been cleaned up over the past few years, with weirs built to slow down the water flow and create lush, green areas teeming with wildlife. Finding the wetlands is simple: Head east on Tropicana (from The Strip) for exactly 7.9 miles and make a left on Wetlands Park Lane. For more info, read Wetlands Park expands with opening of bridge

Lion King Las Vegas To Play Full Show – Many Broadway style shows have (and continue to) enjoy great runs here, but are often a condensed version of the Broadway hit. The standard notion: With so much to do and see, people don’t want to sit through a really long show. (And the notion that the hotels want you back in the casino spending money more quickly).

The Lion King is going to buck the trend and perform the nearly 2 1/2 hour show, with a standard 15 minute intermission. It will be interesting to see how it works out (and how many people get on a hot gambling streak during intermission and simply don’t make it back into the theatre). Ticket sales are expected to be brisk as this show looks to be a major draw. You may wish to reserve now: Click for Lion King Las Vegas Tickets

Is The Club Scene Over? – We’ve received very mixed reader email on the club scene boom here. Some of you enjoy them, others feel priced out by those willing to spend thousands of dollars in just one night in a club. Readers of all ages have bemoaned the loss of many of the hotel lounges, and I’m among you. Hotels wonder why their gaming revenue is dropping. Could one reason be that the excitement of live music playing on (or just off of) the casino floor made the gambling more fun? DUH!

Local columnist Norm Clarke had an interesting article Celebs cut back on making it rain that is worth a read. Truth be told, Las Vegas being a little less of a celeb hot spot may be a good thing. The focus is coming back to our core business of the past many decades: Give you a reasonably priced room, good food, favorable gaming odds and some of the best shows and entertainment you’ll find on the planet, and you’ll keep coming back for more. Which leads me to these comments…

Loose slots

The Eggheads Just Don’t Get It – Nevada gaming revenue is in a free-fall (down around 8% in 2008). You aren’t gambling as much when you visit, and we don’t blame you. We’ve noted how recent years have brought tighter slots and unfavorable table game rules. Casino management blames it on the economy. I blame some of it on the guys running the casinos:

Even after the mob pretty much left town, Las Vegas was run by guys with resort, gaming, and tourism backgrounds. Not that many years ago, signs likeá99% Payback On Slots, Better Odds On Craps/Blackjack and others regarding easy comps were common up and down The Strip.

Now, things are run by a bunch of guys with educations from prestigious eastern universities whose backgrounds are Wall Street, not Las Vegas Boulevard. And it shows (just look at how Wall Street and Banking have been doing). They don’t seem to understand that you’ll come and (probably) lose a pile of cash. And still enjoy it and tell others what a great time you had doing so.

But… only if you are getting some value out of it. Only if the gambling lets you have a few win streaks. Only if you can go home and tell your friends about the incredible meal deal you had. Only if we offer you some real fun, a chance to win, and value in hotel and meal prices.

The word is starting to resonate. Read (from our local paper) Strip’s Salvation Lies In Offering Value

We’re Number Eight? – After being tops 19 out of the past 21 years, Nevada has finally given up the longstanding “fastest growing state” mantle. Neighboring states Utah and Arizona took the top two honors with Nevada falling to the #8 spot.

When people inquire about moving here, I suggest they check out Salt Lake City, Phoenix (and Albuquerque) as well. I love Las Vegas and it is an amazing place to visit, but unless your fortunate enough to be one of the (maybe) 100 people here with a job like mine, living here isn’t all about shows and buffets. It is about the daily grind just like you’d find anywhere else (even for people like me).

Why Salt Lake City, Phoenix or Albuquerque? All are short non-stop flights to your favorite vacation destination (Las Vegas, of course). Salk Lake offers traditional winters (snow and skiing), Phoenix offers a major city atmosphere with big league sports, and Albuquerque is a mid-sized city which has the beautiful desert mountain scenery of Las Vegas without our 110 degree summers.

Finally, let me leave you with an amazing Las Vegas photo blog find I found. A couple who recently married here posted photos ranging from their plane over the desert and on approach to some very cool shots all over The Strip and Downtown Fremont Street. Enjoy LAS VEGAS marriage pics. Picture Heavy!

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:

Boulder Stn from $25, Fiesta H from $29, Green Valley from $125, Red Rock from $125, Santa Fe Stn from $39, Sunset Stn from $40, Texas Stn from $29, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Motley Crue To Pass The Joint Into A New Era At The Hard Rock – As the saying goes, “as one door closes, another one opens.” The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas will close its legendary concert venue, The Joint, on February 7, 2009 to make way for a brand new expanded and state-of-the-art Joint. As part of their Saints of Los Angeles 2009 Tour, M÷tley Cr³e will help close The Joint doors in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion with two closing weekend performances scheduled for February 6 and 7. (Tickets). Click to Read The Full Story …

RA Sushi Bar Restaurant Celebrates Four Years In Las Vegas – RA Sushi Bar Restaurant will celebrate four years in Las Vegas with a prom-themed anniversary party on Saturday, January 24. The event begins on Saturday, January 24 at 9 p.m. and features live entertainment from Last Pop Nation, Justin Carder and RA’s own DJ G-Raw. Ladies are encouraged to don their most gaudy dresses and men in the craziest tuxes they can find to celebrate the prom-themed event. Click to Read The Full Story …

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2009 AT Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – Beginning January 14, Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens will celebrate the 2009 Chinese New Year, the Year of the Ox, with a unique display filled with hidden meaning. The Conservatory’s design will be guided by the ancient practice of Feng Shui û the art of using surroundings to attract harmony, balance and positive life energy. The dramatic centerpiece of this exhibit will be a botanical 15-foot-long ox. Click to Read The Full Story …

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hello. Love your newsletter!

A group of us just visited Vegas Dec. 7-11, 2008 (we have visited 2 or 3 times a year since 2003). Had a wonderful time as always. In these past years of visiting Vegas right up to our recent trip last week, we have always wondered why a 24/7 city closes most, if not all, of its restaurants at 10 or 11 pm. The fine dining establishments i can understand… but I have always wondered why more casual to fast food places donÆt stay open 24 hours.

Each hotel has ONE restaurant that stays open all nite and the wait is usually unbelievably long, not to mention how long it takes to get waited on and served. It seems a Subway shop or a 24-hour deli would be appropriate for those who want to party until all hours and THEN grab a quick bite to take back to their room.

I stayed at MGM again this trip (which I love, by the way) and they have a Deli that stays open until like 1 am and the line at 12:30 goes on forever. So I canÆt believe that a 24-hour fast food place wouldnÆt make money in the middle of the nite. I was just curious if anyone had any insight as to why all the food courts close at 11’ish and why more casual places donÆt stay open all nite.

Thanks,

Sharla from Columbus OH

Ted Responds:

I’m probably not making any friends in casino management in this issue, and we’ll be returning to our more Las Vegas news in future issues. However, these issues do need to be addressed.

The decision makers at hotel casinos are apt to be tucked into bed and asleep at midnight. They don’t know what is going on in situations like this. They forget that you are partying, boozing and having fun well into the late night and wee hours. And… what does just about everyone want to do after a long night of imbibing? EAT. (Visit any Waffle House or similar restaurant at 3 AM on a weekend. This isn’t just a Las Vegas phenomenon).

The best we can do is highlight the concerns of our readers and let them filter to the decision makers who simply have no clue what is really happening during those late night “Prime Time In Las Vegas” hours.

My wife and I have been coming to Vegas every year since the late 70’s and have seen to many changes. I enjoy playing blackjack, but this year I played maybe twice. The 6-5 payoff on a blackjack in most every casino has taken away the enjoyment of the game. Let’s get the bean counters out of Vegas.

Love your newsletter.

Bill from Orlando

Ted Responds:

For those unfamiliar with what Bill is talking about, the original rules for blackjack (and the rules in Las Vegas for decades) was that you get 3 chips for every 2 chips you bet when you are dealt a blackjack. 15 chips when you bet 10. Now, most Las Vegas casinos only pay you 6 chips for every 5 bet or simply 12 (instead of 15) for every 10 bet.

The El Cortez downtown is still dealing with the original rules and if you really hunt, you may be able to find some others. Bottom Line: If you play a blackjack game where they are only paying you 6 to 5 on a blackjack, you are getting ripped off. Keep walking. How much of a difference does it make? You get dealt blackjack more often than you realize. This can add up to a substantial amount of money per hour that should be in your pocket, but isn’t.

We have been subscribing to your newsletter for several years now and really enjoy it!

We’ve been coming to Vegas for four years for the first weekend of the PBR finals. Your newsletter has been extremely helpful.

We’ve stayed at the Excalibur the last couple of years. The first year the rooms were OK, but this year we stayed in one of the remodeled rooms and were very impressed with it. We got to look out over the pools and the improvements in the rooms were really nice.

This is the first year the finals have been at the Thomas & Mack Center instead of the Mandalay Bay Events Center. We were a little worried about transportation, but were pleasantly surprised by the taxi service we got all three nights. Our taxi cab drivers were very pleasant and we felt like they did a great job getting us there and back.

We are auto enthusiasts and really enjoyed the Auto Collection at the Imperial Palace.

Thank you for your newsletter and keep up the great work!!

Debbie R.
Kansas

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

  • 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
  • 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)

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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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

January 14, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 8, 2008

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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
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! I swear that I was starting to wonder if we’d ever get this issue out. Every time we got ready to send, more stuff kept flowing in. Photos, news, events… just keep reading!

Last Chance To See Mamma Mia! In Las Vegas – Mamma Mia! closes its amazing run at Mandalay Bay on January 4, 2009. Although I’m going on 16 years as a Las Vegas resident, it is almost hard to remember when Mamma Mia! wasn’t a part of the landscape here. Year after year, it gained raves and often landed on “Top 10 Shows In Las Vegas” lists.

The replacement? No, not another Cirque show (an idea reported to be proposed and rejected). Disney’s The Lion King is shooting for a late Spring 2009 opening. Years ago, Disney resisted being associated with Las Vegas, but no longer holds this concern. The irony? Las Vegas marketed itself as a family destination in the 90’s and now is aáWhat Happens Here, Stays Here getaway. Lion King tickets are not yet on sale. Of course we’ll let you know when available, don’t we always! In the meantime, I strongly suggest seeing Mamma Mia! before it is gone.

If you’ve been, you know how fun it is. If not yet seen, you are in for a treat. This show garners raves from all ages and demographics.

Click for Mamma Mia! Las Vegas Tickets

Wynn Shoots An Encore – Many of you may remember the original Wynn Las Vegas commercial featuring Steve Wynn high atop his new hotel. (We have it archived here:Wynn Las Vegas Commercial). This past week, he climbed high atop his Encore tower to shoot an “encore” to the original. Although details are under wraps, it is said to have Wynn’s typical sense of humor. No word on when it will debut.

More Families In Las Vegas? – If you are seeing more families here on your Vegas visit, don’t think that a “family oriented” Las Vegas is on the return. International tourism is way up (because of our weak dollar). The United States is an affordable family vacation for many in Europe. They’ll spend a couple of weeks here in our country, seeing San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and similar. Given Europe’s comfort level with the human form, I doubt they consider bare behind billboards too risque for their kids:

Mob Museum… What Museum – The long talked about Mob Museum (actually the Las Vegas Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement) is just about under construction and should be done by 2010. The location? Next to the Lady Luck Downtown. (Please don’t write and ask what is up with the Lady Luck. If we knew, I’d let you know. Last news as we reported here was that nothing would happen until the economy turned around, and yes… it is a shame they closed it. Same with Stardust. We lost a couple of fun pieces of history for no apparent reason at all at this time).

Anyway, back to the Mob Museum. The marketing campaign will focus around a pretend secrecy and t-shirts have already been printed that say “There Is No Such Thing As A Mob Museum, Nor Have I Been There.” More on this story: Construction planned on a museum you can’t refuse

Nevada’s Recession – Unemployment here looks to stick at around 9% for the next two years, according to a recent Review-Journal article. That is not a typo. Almost 1 out of 10 people out of work. What does that mean for the visitor? Maybe not much. Tourism volume is staying pretty steady and although rumors of hotel layoffs continue to circulate, they can only cut so much staff. Rooms have to be cleaned and food has to be cooked.

Many read the “terrible” economic numbers for Nevada and fail to realize that our recession is affecting the 500,000 or so people who have moved here the past decade and don’t work in a gaming associated business. Construction is way down (both residential and commercial) and the domino affect has hit the “other” (non-tourist) sectors. We don’t need as many strip mall type of businesses.

My prediction? Unemployment won’t stay that high through 2010 but the housing market will actually get worse next year. Why? The same people who picked up and moved here will pick up and move away just as quickly. This will keep the local housing market depressed but ease unemployment. A great situation if you are moving here to retire (or want to purchase a vacation home/condo) in the next couple of years.

Bikefest Roared Through Town – Fall brings Bikefest to downtown Las Vegas and this year’s event was as big as ever. Mark went on a three day assignment shooting choppers, crowds, bands, bikinis and everything else associated. We’ll feature event photos in following newsletters (always stay subscribed, even when your trip is over). The event kickoff was at Hogs and Heifers Saloon downtown. Click the photos for entire photo set:

bikefest las vegas 2008

bikefest las vegas 2008 bar girls

Bikes, babes and bands not your thing? Stay tuned as future weeks will bring new casino photo features plus the latest Bellagio Gardens display.

Halloween In Las Vegas – Coming next issue. Also, a belated happy Thanksgiving to our many Canadian readers.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

CityCenter To Deliver Most Technologically Advanced Hotels In U.S. When It Opens In Late 2009 – ARIA Resort & Casino, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas and The Harmon Will Be First in Country to Debut Unrivaled Custom Automation by Control4 Providing Guest Experience Unparalleled in Hospitality Industry. Upon opening in late 2009, CityCenter will debut the most advanced guestroom technology in the country at ARIA Resort & Casino, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas and The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences. Click to Read The Full Story …

The M Resort, Spa And Casino Debuts Its Latest Innovation – The M Lightship – All eyes were toward the Las Vegas sky yesterday evening as the $1 billion M Resort, Spa and Casino debuted its 178 foot M Lightship û the resort’s electronic blimp with the world’s largest 70′ x 30′ aerial television screen on the side. The M Lightship will be the only airship in the world offering the public a close-up, hands-on experience. The resort intends to create a center, which will provide information about the Lightship as well as offer the public a chance to meet the captain and crew, take photos and obtain Lightship souvenirs. Click to Read The Full Story …

Special Photo Set: M Resort Blimp and South Las Vegas At Sunset

Wynn Las Vegas Hosts The Breeders’ Cup Legends Tour Featuring Jockeys Pat Day, Angel Cordero Jr. And Laffit Pincay Jr. – Wynn Las Vegas Race & Sports Book will host The Breeders’ Cup Legends Tour featuring legendary Hall of Fame jockeys Pat Day, Angel Cordero Jr. and Laffit Pincay Jr. on Thursday, October 16 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, will feature a question and answer session, meet and greet and photograph opportunities. Click to Read The Full Story …

Performances of “Raw Talent Live” to Begin at the Sahara Hotel & Casino – ND, the creator, producer and director of “Raw Talent Live” has opened the doors to the highly anticipated spectacular, “Raw Talent Live” at the Sahara Hotel & Casino. (Tickets) “‘Raw Talent Live’ will be a show unlike any other on the Las Vegas Strip,” said ND. “With all of the intricacies involved in the shows development, ‘Raw Talent Live’ will pave the way for the next generation of entertainment in Las Vegas. It’s raw, obviously it does not work, dare to see the show.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
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California from $39, Fremont from $39, Gold Coast from $35, Main Street from $39, Orleans from $50, Sam’s Town from $35, Sun Coast from $60, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

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I am heading to VEGAS for my 14th time spending 4 nights with my boyfriend. We are thinking about seeing the show KA, renting a car for the day and probably getting to Valley of Fire (My boyfriend has been there I haven’t) taking in the pool of course. What would you say is the place to get too outside of VEGAS as a MUST SEE? I have heard great things about ZION PARK but it’s pretty far. We want to try to keep the trip under 4 hours each way if we can. Also any other must get to places?

We aren’t into the clubs I we enjoy live music fun bands. I do like HARRAH’s carnival area too however it can also get packed. Also must get to food places that don’t cost a ton?? We don’t mind buffets and we do like just about every kind of food. Keep in mind we will be at MGM Grand

Thanks,

Alisha

Ted Responds:

Everybody has different tastes, but I’ll do my best:

Everyone I know who has seen KA has really enjoyed it. Zion is too far. Valley of Fire is spectacular, about an hour away.áRed Rock Canyon is 30-40 minutes from The Strip (go mid-morning to avoid traffic). Hoover Dam is amazing. Walking across it is so cool. Carnival Court, Margaritaville (later in the evening live bands) plus the Dueling Pianos inside Harrah’s are fun/party atmosphere that isn’t a nightclub vibe.

The nicer the hotel, the more expensive the buffet. Many hotels (MGM Grand, O Sheas, Monte Carlo and many more) have food courts where you’ll find a variety of regular food chains. Since you have a car, two not-far-away places to check out:

  1. Maryland Parkway across from UNLV (1.5 miles east of The Strip) has a bunch of cool, pretty cheap restaurants and bars. You’ll find something you like.
  2. About 3 miles south of Mandalay Bay right on LV Blvd (The Strip) at Between Warm Springs and Robindale is a big restaurant row. Everything from chains like Chili’s and Chipotle to Mom and Pop type pizza and Mexican places (and tons more). Anybody can find something they like.
  3. Town Square is 5 minutes south of MGM on The Strip (just past the golf course after Mandalay Bay) with a lot of cool shops and restaurants. Blue Martini there has 1/2 off all food from 4-8 PM.

All of the above are literally less than 10 minutes from MGM Grand and #2 and #3 are actually on “The Strip” (just a little bit past the hotel areas).

This was from my Vegas trip, Wayne Newton & I August 2, 2008 at the MGM Grand after Wayne’s show! Please keep me posted on Wayne’s appearances as soon as you hear it.

Thanks!

Donna

Ted Responds:

Wayne is back working for his “old boss” (and friend) Kirk Kerkorian at the MGM Grand through the end of the year after his long run at the Stardust and (more recently) Harrah’s.

He’s also playing in Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan during November. For dates and tickets: Wayne Newton Tickets

Just wanted to drop a line, first off to thank you for the newsletter and secondly to comment on my recent stay in Vegas (August 8-10).

I am a Canadian who makes the trip at least once a year. Having been in Vegas in June of last year I knew what to expect regarding cost of eating and gambling not being quite the same as previous years… nonetheless… we decided to try it again because lets face it… you gotta love Vegas!! We (me, my husband and a friend) were so disappointed. We stayed at the Imperial Palace (because we were comped) and lets face it…its run down and grungy. The slots at all the strip casinos we went into were so tight… we lost a bundle!!!

But I must say we did get good bar service pretty much everywhere which was nice. We took your advice and went downtown (I really love the atmosphere there anyways!). Had a better time there for sure but still didn’t feel like we were having as much fun as we used to! We did, however, see Jerry Seinfeld while there and boy what a good time we had so all was not lost. Next time we go back we will be staying downtown…enough of the high fallutin’ hotels on the strip… we want to stay where we feel the old Vegas is alive and well.

Barb from Sherwood Park AB Canada

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the report. I’ll speak more on this in a future issue, but gaming executives think that “fun” means playing blackjack where there is an Elvis impersonator dealing the cards, or “fun” is one of the new slot games that nobody even understands.

They forgot that the FUN was playing (and maybe the free cocktails) for a few hours a day. It was the experience of Las Vegas and gambling. The casinos always knew they would usually get your money at the end of the day. By letting people win some, the played longer and were actually prone to losing a little more money. If you’ve been up-and-down, you’ll put in more hoping for another run of luck. If a machine just sucks down your money, you close your purse or wallet and walk.

In previous recessions, people still came and gambled. The downturn in Las Vegas gaming wins isn’t because people are gambling more at Indian casinos. If that were the case, visitor volume would be down substantially. The bottom line is that until people are able to get back to experiencing the true fun of gambling (winning once in a while, getting on an occasional hot streak), the hotels only have themselves to blame. Spend your money on a couple of good shows and an amazing meal or two instead. Much more bang for the buck.

Thanks for reading and telling friends to subscribe!

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:

  • 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)
  • Jewish New Year September 19

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

October 8, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 24, 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! Highs in the 90’s (F) and lows around 70 make this time of year oh-so-perfect. If you are starting to feel a chill in the air where you live, you may want to plan a Las Vegas getaway in October while we still have pool weather.

Can You “Believe” That Criss Angel’s Show Is Actually Going To Start? – After numerous start dates being pushed back, it actually looks like Criss Angel: Believe is ready to launch at The Luxor. We have tickets available starting for October 3, 2008 – Criss Angel: Believe Tickets. This is probably the most anticipated show opening in some time given the soft economy and flat visitor volume. We’ll let you know how early reviews go and have one of our writers report on it once the show is in full swing.

If You Haven’t Been To The El Cortez Lately – Then you really have not been to the El Cortez. We were pretty blown away by a recent visit. This once somewhat run-down hotel has been improved and returned to all the glory it once held. Worth checking out when you are downtown and a decent place to stay for the money. My tip? Try Roberta’s Cafe for dinner. Upscale dining steak and seafood style atmosphere but served with “old school” reasonable Las Vegas prices.


Click either photo for complete El Cortez photo set

Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Continue Seeking Applicants – (from Wynn Las Vegas) Despite the escalating unemployment rate in Nevada and nationally, Wynn continues to accept applications for 5,300 newly created job opportunities, as it prepares to unveil Encore, the new signature resort in the Wynn collection. Wynn and Encore began accepting applications in July and have already received more than 65,000 job inquiries.á

SaysáStephanie Rosol of Wynn Las Vegas. “…we are still looking for people who share our dedication to excellence and passion for impeccable, personalized service. These openings present an opportunity to join the only Mobil Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond, Michelin Five Red Pavilions award-winning team in Las Vegas. Candidates should apply directly online at http://www.wynnjobs.com

M Resort Also Hiring – for their new resort to open in South Las Vegas. Property officials at the M Resort, Spa and Casino announced the resortÆs campaign to recruit up to 2,000 new team members for the $1 billion project scheduled to open March, 2009 on the southeast corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and St. Rose Parkway. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online today at www.theMresort.com

Possibly The Best $19.78 Burger You Will Enjoy – The $19.78 Morton’s and Make-A-Wish Prime Sirloin Burger is being offered on Sundays through November at Morton’s (400 East Flamingo, less than a mile from The Strip). Guests can indulge in the juicy burger with fries, while helping children at the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Morton’s is donating $5 from each Prime Sirloin Burger entrÚe sold to the Foundation. Available from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays through November.

Call Morton’s at (702) 893-0703 for questions or directions. My take? With Las Vegas being he new center of gourmet burgers (Burger Bar, BLT, etc) this is an amazing chance to sample this otherwise very expensive (and worth it) prime rib house while enjoying doing something good for others.

Las Vegas Real Estate Free Fall – Plans for new home developments are being mothballed just as quickly as plans for new Strip resorts. Just a couple of years ago, it looked like the Las Vegas area would sprawl like Southern California to new communities 1-2 hours from town, and small amounts of developable land (land not owned by the federal government) around the edges of Las Vegas would blossom with new homes.á

All bets are off and new home sales are way down (partially as people discover that for the same price as a new home, they can buy in an established Las Vegas neighborhood and get a much bigger lot, a real yard, and be closer to work and play). Related articles:

Church In Sin City – For years (perhaps decades), the myth that Las Vegas has more churches per capita than any other U.S. city has made the rounds (and was debunked a number of years ago).á

However, if you want to see how they do church in Las Vegas, one of the areas biggest churches is now holding virtual services for a worldwide audience. This is more than just a podcast: Services start at set times throughout the weekend to accommodate worldwide time zones and you can (if you wish) engage in pre- and post-service chat rooms and other social networking opportunities. More at http://www.centralonlinecampus.com

á

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

á

Dick’s Las Resort Brews Beer Pong – The Wackiest Joint on The Strip Puts a Silly Spin on Drinking Sport. Dick’s Last Resort invites you to test your skills at Bar Pong, the restaurant’s very own rowdy rendition of the popular past time that is beer pong. With Dick’s entertainer extraordinaire Taco acting as the rambunctious referee, the game has never been this fun. A touch of truth or dare is tossed in to add a twist as missed shots result in kooky challenges that will have everyone laughing. Whether flying solo or with friends, pick one of Dick’s 18 draft beers and join in the everlasting excitement where everyone is a winner.

Stagecoach Depot’s Haunted Corn Maze Opens Friday, Oct. 3rd In Glendale – Nevada’s largest Halloween festivity features a humongous corn maze in the crop circle style of a fire truck and it runs from Friday, Oct. 3-31 and ends with a barbecue and entertainment. The admission prices are $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 and under includes entrance to the haunted corn maze. On Oct. 3 there will be an outdoor bar and “Rock Star Karaoke” by Myke and Miranda. The band Evenflow will play on Halloween night. Bring a can of food to donate to the poor and receive a dollar off admission prices. The drama department of the local high school will play the spooks. Click to Read The Full Story …

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!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hi Ted,

We recently took both our daughter (25) and son (22)and their partners to visit Las Vegas after spending 4 days at San Francisco. We all loved San Francisco! But all loved Vegas as well! If I sound surprised, I am I was not sure they would see why we keep coming back.

We have been yearly for the last 4 years and this year came in February as well as July. They said it was like being in a nightclub for a week!!

We have stayed at the Luxor every time but its looking a little scruffy now. I know that there is a lot of construction work going on inside but its dirty and not too mention smoky inside the pyramid.

We are staying next, at The Planet Hollywood. We seem to spend a lot of our time in there and it will be nice to stay somewhere that is finished!!! Not to mention the beer in Sin City brewery is the best!!!!

Love the news letter and read it avidly every week!á

Best wishes, Kim and Glyn from Somerset England

á

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great note! Hitting Las Vegas plus another U.S. city is a popular thing to do for those of you who have to come so far to visit us.

It is interesting how most people (even those who don’t see themselves as a Vegas type of person) end up enjoying their visit here. It is like the worlds biggest indoor/outdoor nightclub for those who wish do live up the nightlife. Others prefer to be up at the crack of dawn (when it is cooler in the summer) for golf or a tour or just to see what all the casinos look like.

The Luxor is being remodeled one piece at a time, and it creates a strange mix. We’ll be over to check out the progress soon as we hear things are really shaping up.

Thanks for the great note and for being a regular reader. Glad you enjoyed your trip and please do remember to tell others who are thinking about visiting (or who come here already) to subscribe as well.

Hi, we usually stay at Sunset Station 2 times a year when we come out but no longer will. The place needs upgrades badly and now charging for drinks at the bar when gambling. What a ripoff, the bartender told us this was managements new policy to save money. The bartender said all his regulars have left there and now go somewhere else to play there money.á

They lost the whole family of 8 of us of ever returning there, poor management is the answer. Fuck them and there comps.á

Bob from Florida

á

Ted Responds:

I hear you. The worst thing you can do is be loyal to one place no matter what. Take your business to a place that wants it!

Next time in town, perhaps stay downtown, rent a car, and check out some non-Station/Fiesta properties. South Point is really nice (and new). Arizona Charlie’s on Boulder isn’t bad. Orleans and Gold Coast are worth a try and close to The Strip.

I just came back from a second stay in Las Vegas and loved it once again! It is truly a unique vacation destination. I enjoying reading your column and I just have a question.á

Since Las Vegas is such a wonderful place to visit and family friendly, why is it that there are so many solicitors of prostitutes all along the strip. I know that prostitution is legal, but really, do they need to have hundreds of people lined up everywhere where you see people with small children and strollers and happy couples walking along the streets. All this does is bother people and create a lot of unnecessary pollution on the streets as most of those papers and cards just end up on the ground.á

I truly loved each visit to Las Vegas because of all the wonderful sights to see, shows, excellent food and service in the hotels and the surrounding natural beauty of the terrain, however I am curious to know if there has ever been any thought to just creating a red light district so that all those hustlers on the streets could be confined to one particular area where people in search of those services could go there directly rather than being such a nuisance to an otherwise wonderful place.á

I will certainly go back to Vegas again and keep up to date with your column but I was just really wondering if this point has ever been discussed with any of the city’s leaders or councilmen. Please let me know if you have any thoughts or info on the subject. Thank you.á

Sincerely, Angela Salera

á

Ted Responds:

Prostitution is actually illegal in Clark County (the county that Las Vegas is in). It is legal in neighboring counties some 60-80 miles from Las Vegas. A couple of years ago, Mayor Oscar Goodman floated the thought of an actual red light district, but nothing has come of it.

The ACLU has fought for the rights of them to hand out what they want. It is a freedom of speech issue, in the same way you could hand out religious information if you wanted. Believe me, every trick in the book to get rid of them has been tried, including the thought of giving the sidewalks to the casinos (which would make them private property) but that was ruled not legal.

Las Vegas is no longer a family-friendly destination and has not marketed itself as such since the 90’s. The “What happens here…” ad campaign was part of dispelling that. However, I’m an adult and would prefer not to have to deal with the solicitors.

Thanks for reading and please telling your friends!

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:

  • 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)
  • Jewish New Year September 19

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 24, 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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 13, 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! We’re surviving what should be the last heat wave of the summer. September generally brings the daytime highs under 100 degrees (F) and pool weather lasts through October. November brings highs in the 60’s. If you live where it gets cold (rain/sleet/snow) as November rolls around, think about locking up a late fall Vegas vacation now (latest hotel deals later in the newsletter). You’ll be happy you did.

November also brings Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 27, 2008) here in the U.S. and it is a surprisingly busy four-day weekend here. All hotel restaurants from the coffee shops and buffets to the high end places serve an option of traditional Thanksgiving fare. Many families with members scattered in far flung places come together in Las Vegas to celebrate together. (Oh, and don’t forget the opportunity to bet and watch all those football games)!

June brought a 3% drop in visitors and a 1% decline in gaming revenue compared to June 2007. To be honest, that is negligible when you consider that 2007 was the biggest boom year ever for Las Vegas. All of the Vegas doom-and-bloom articles (mostly written by journalists thousands of miles from here) were way off the mark. Downtown seems especially busy as people search for retro-Vegas (reasonable room rates, food values, and gambling that gives them a shot at winning).

Local economic indicators are another story, especially with the construction bust (both residential and resort). For those thinking of moving here. let’s make this really simple: IF (and this is a big IF) you are independently wealthy, comfortably retired, or have a job you can conduct from anywhere (consultant or telecommute or similar where you simply need broadband and proximity to a major airport to get the job done), this is a great time to move here. áIf you want to move here and will need to look for a job… forget it.

Did You Know:

  • Main Street Station downtown offers self-guided tour of 20 historical antiques they have on site in their Artifacts, Antiques and Artworks tour. Everything from a pool table that once belonged to Winston Churchill to the Blackhawk rail car once used by Buffalo Bill Cody. Tour pamphlets are available at the hotel desk at no charge.
  • Big House Choppers of Nevada are custom choppers made by state prison employees. They are manufactured at the Desert Correctional Center (just north of Las Vegas) and actual prison bars are integrated into each bike. More info at www.bighousechoppers.net

More Las Vegas photos than ever will be available when we launch our new photo gallery in just a couple of weeks. (We are working out a few last bugs in it). Our weekly Vegas Photos feature will return at that time. In the meantime, our present Las Vegas Photo Gallery is still available to the public.

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 $69, Bill’s from $48, Caesars from $140, Flamingo from $59, Harrah’s from $58, Imperial from $35, Paris from $90, Rio Suites from $58, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

á

Iconic Comedy Duo Cheech & Chong To Perform At The Pearl Concert Theater On October 18 – The infamous comedy duo Cheech & Chong will bring laughter to The Pearl Concert Theater on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. (Tickets) These two classic comedians will reunite as part of their first tour in 25 years, Light Up America. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong first hit the LA comedy scene in the early ’70s and immediately won over audiences with their wacky routines which captured the free spirited attitude of the times. Some of their most well-known routines were “Earache My Eye,” “Basketball Jones” and “Sister Mary Elephant.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Cher Unveils An Eyeful Of Glitter And Sequins As She Debuts A New Ensemble At Her Vegas Show In The Colosseum – Fans attending Cher’s Caesars Palace shows will be in for a glittery surprise as the pop diva debuts a new Bob Mackie creation for her closing number “Believe.” Returning to the stage after a two-month break, Cher’s show continues her 3-year run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The 90-minute show is presented at 7:30 p.m. four nights a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday (dark Monday, Thursday and Friday). Tickets for her show through Oct. 5 are now on sale.

á

Affliction “Day of Reckoning” To Las Vegas On Oct. 11 – Roy Englebrecht Events, Donald J. Trump, Affliction Entertainment in association with Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino present Affliction “Day of Reckoning” Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nev. Tickets Coming off the success of its inaugural fight card, “Affliction Banned,” Roy Englebrecht Events in association with Affliction Entertainment is pleased to announce Affliction “Day of Reckoning” featuring heavyweights Andrei Arlovski vs. Josh Barnett. Click to Read The Full Story …

Popular among Las Vegas Locals, Yellow Brick Road will play during Tropicana’s Mint Monday event at the pool on 8/18 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and 9-10 p.m. Live concert, swimming, volleyball, dancing and more is all no-charge and open to the public.

August Promotions At The Sahara – Wednesday Blackjack Tournaments – Put your skills to the test every Monday and Wednesday with Club Sahara’s $2,000 Blackjack Tournaments! Registration is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Buy-in is $25, which includes a free buffet coupon or $10 in free table play. Re-buys are $10. Cash in for Cocktails Paycheck Promotion – Cash your paycheck at the Sahara Main Cage and receive two free drinks! Valid paychecks only, management reserves all rights. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

ColdPlay, Jonas Brothers, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, John Mayer, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Madonna, Toby Keith, Eddie Vedder, Journey, The Police, Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, NFL Football, PGA Championship, NASCAR Sprint Cup, College Football, WWE Wrestling, Baseball, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My wife and I travel to LV 6 times per year. All of your “old Las Vegas” tips seem to refer to downtown. We stay on the Strip. Where are the loose slots, where is the fun of old Las Vegas? Everything you refer to in the newsletter is downtown. Really, we want to know what is old Las Vegas on the Strip? We are disillusioned with the hype.

Cheers

M&B Kieth

á

Ted Responds:

Here’s some food for thought:

Las Vegas didn’t used to have a Bellagio, Venetian or Wynn Las Vegas. Most of the Las Vegas Strip hotels were more comparable to the hotels which are downtown now.

You can’t expect to stay at what are now some of the finest resorts in the world for $49 a night. However, Las Vegas didn’t used to have the finest resorts in the world. People came and enjoyed clean, comfortable rooms at rates well below what that comparable room would cost in another city.

Staying downtown does not preclude spending the majority of your time on The Strip. To put things in perspective: Downtown is 3.5 miles from Wynn Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay is 2.5 miles from Wynn Las Vegas. Fremont Street isn’t a foreign outpost or something!

Downtown-like rates can be found on The Strip at Tropicana, Sahara, Imperial Palace and Riviera. And… rates at the very top resorts are currently well below what rooms of that quality would go for in another city.

People seem to want to stay at the very top notch resorts, but at “old Vegas” prices. That would never happen in any city under any circumstances. However, inexpensive rooms and good gambling are very much alive and well downtown. We are advising people watching expenditures to enjoy seeing the shows and attractions they want to on The Strip, but to stay downtown. It will still add up to a great Las Vegas vacation.

Hi Ted!

We had a chance while in Vegas, to visit the Palazzo and really did not think that it was as spectacular as we were led to believe. The casino is nothing more than a repeat of the Venetian. None of the stores were open on the third floor and it was difficult to find staff members who could give reliable information with regards to directions or where specific stores might be located. Disappointed to say the least.

On a happier note, we ate at the Bistro Cantina restaurant which is on the strip and adjacent to the Monte Carlo. The food was excellent and the staff were very cordial. Also went to the Hofbrau House and had a great time – a great place to really cut loose – German food was also quite good! Siegfriedáá and Roy were there that night to celebrate a birthday. We really enjoy your news letter – it helps to keep us up on current events in Vegas – thank you for that!!

Linda and Rich

á

Ted Responds:

The Palazzo gaming area is really understated, no question about it. Not the zing of Wynn, Bellagio or even Venetian.

Palazzo was under a lot of pressure to get the doors open (more or less) on time. I’d re-visit the property for a quick stroll on your next visit and see if it seems different. Having said that, I agree that it didn’t really add a new WOW factor to The Strip.

Have not been to Bistro Cantina, but Hofbrau House is always fun. Anyone headed over to check out the Hard Rock should poke their head in and check it out.

Thanks for reading and telling your friends to subscribe!

Hi, Always enjoy reading Inside Vegas. I just returned from another trip to Vegas. I stayed one night at Harrah’s which was great. I also stayed 3 nights at Marriott Grand Chateau. It was fantastic. These two hotels were so much better than the Imperial Palace from last month’s visit. Harrah’s need to upgrade Imperial Palace immediately! I also saw “Jersey Boys” and really enjoyed the music. They could leave out the “F” word and it wouldn’t be missed. I ate at many fantastic restaurants.

Sincerely,

Joan Cornell from Illinois

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:

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

August 13, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 16, 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! Welcome to the hot, hazy, humid days of a Las Vegas summer. Yes, I said humid as bands of clouds (and intermittent rain) has graced us the past week. Fortunately, this has kept temperatures a few degrees lower than usual. Think more Miami than Vegas. Temps are only going to be in the high 90’s most of the coming week. That’s almost downright chilly for Las Vegas this time of year!

Morris Day and The Time are getting great reviews and really generating a buzz with their run at The Flamingo. Check out the recent review There’s Still Time. Their next run is July 29 – August 2, 2008: Morris Day and The Time Tickets

If Not Downtown Nor On The Strip… – We have two new photo sets this week of a couple hotel casinos often favored by visitors: Palms Las Vegas and The Orleans.

Both resorts are only a couple of miles apart, but popular for two very different reasons. The Palms is upscale/celeb/MTV meets Las Vegas with top amenities and a Los Angeles crowd in touch with everything pop culture.

The Orleans is “local, local, local” with with a popular race and sports book and a bowling center upstairs (which must be seen to be believed).

What they have in common is that The Palms has an interesting design where the west half of the casino (with a food court, lots of slots, and easy parking) brings the the area locals in with regularity, making both resorts both “local’s favorites” with guest shuttles to the Las Vegas Strip.

The Palms Hotel Casino Playboy Club Las Vegas Nevada
View Palms Las Vegas Photos

Orleans Hotel Casino Las Vegas Nevada
View Orleans Las Vegas Photos

Steve Wynn is preparing to hire 5300 people to staff his new Encore tower. Before you pack up the car and move to town with thoughts of a $100,000-a-year gig parking cars, think again: He’s going to steal the cream-of-the-crop from other resorts. In addition, he’ll grab the best of those laid off the past few months in the industry. And… he’s probably very unlikely to hire anyone who isn’t an established local (common with almost any business here right now). With higher than (U.S.) average unemployment in Nevada, he’ll have plenty of qualified, experienced talent to choose from.

Will Rogers Fillies… Has Its Charm – We don’t often cover local theatre here as many of you are from out of town (and outside the United States) and are simply coming for a vacation. However, a tip of the hat to our own writer DW Grant (see his Rat Pack Is Back review later in this issue) who is involved with the local Will Rogers Follies production.

Local theatre critic Anthony Del Valle says this about the show:

I got lulled into “The Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Revue” halfway through. There’s something about the soft, steady flow of elegance that keeps you smiling.

The 1991 musical pays tribute to the folksy commentator in the style of a Florenz Ziegfeld extravaganza. That is, long, leggy numbers are often interrupted by jokes of wisdom by our star (Michael Brown), infiltrated by scenes of family and hearth.á

Click to Read Entire Local Will Rogers Follies Review including venue and ticket information.

Correction: The Tropicana’s free pool parties are on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays from noon until 11 PM and are open to the public with DJ’s, live entertainment, food, and drink specials.

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:

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $58, Sahara from $35, Strat. from $48, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $37, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Featured Review:
Cirque du Soleil’s KA – Set Fire To Your Boundaries And Ignite Your Imagination!

by Nicole “Niko” Acevedo

Experience another world in another time, perhaps another universe. The melodies that echo are unfamiliar yet enchanting and the passionate gestures, mastered martial artistry, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics will guide you through this journey of the Imperial Twins and their struggle through the tragedies of war, loss and separation, and the dawn of new love and reunion.

Accompanied by a powerful and enigmatic original musical score, this spectacular theatrical production will draw you into the depths of a transcendent voyage. Ka is like a compelling visionary experience and vibrant dreamscape where there are no limits to the incredible abilities of the human body, joined with the mind’s imagination.

Click to Read Entire Cirque du Soleil’s KA Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Indeed, The Rat Pack Is Back In Las Vegas

by DW Grant

Returning to 1962 to catch the greatest act in Las Vegas history is now as easy as buying a ticket. “The Rat Pack is Back,” The Sands has been resurrected, Las Vegas has only one sensational act, and the production is as hot Vegas has ever been or may ever be.

Forget about blue men, tumbling clown shows, red pianos, and all Elvi. Sizzling hot Vegas nights have returned and the chaotic Corporate Canyon has been turned back to a dazzling Neon City again. The show room is gaudy red curtains, dinner booths and tuxedoed waiters dashing from table to table. The New York strip steak is worthy of praise and the live 13 piece orchestra warming up behind the half circle of gold waterfall curtains is ready to pump out gobs of showroom glitz.

Click to Read Entire The Rat Pack Is Back Las Vegas Review…

Comedian Chris Rock To Return To The Colosseum At Caesars Palace – “No Apologies” Tour Slated for Two Night Engagement August 29-30. (Tickets) Comedic heavy-weight Chris Rock is bringing his critically acclaimed “No Apologies” tour to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Friday, August 29 and Saturday, August 30. The extended Labor Day weekend performances are presented jointly by Caesars Palace and AEG Live. Click to Read The Full Story …

Ron White Performs His Down Home Comedy At The Mirage December 5 – 6 – Ron White, best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour,” will perform his hilarious stand-up comedy inside the Danny Gans Theatre at The Mirage December 5 and 6 at 10 p.m. (Tickets) Guests must be at least 16 years old to attend. White, a Texas native, is known for his performances with fellow Southern comedians Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall and Larry the Cable Guy during the highly acclaimed “Blue Collar Comedy Tour.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Hot Buys: From Sizzling Fashions to Indulgent Beauty Treats – Look cool in the heat of summer with hot retail buys from Mandalay Place at Mandalay Bay. Check out what will be open on your next trip to The Strip:

  • Metropark – Mixing contemporary fashion with a high-energy atmosphere, this edgy retailer will offer modern, urban apparel and accessories typically found only in specialty boutiques. Targeting trendsetting shoppers in search of more sophisticated fashion, Metropark will feature such brands as Obey, Affliction, Sinful, True Religion, Ed Hardy, Howe, Kid Robot and Betsey Johnson.
  • LUSH – Known for its ethical and innovative approach to beauty, LUSH will offer fresh handmade cosmetic, bath and body products. Traditional and non-traditional merchandise will range from fragrant soaps to fizzing bath bombs. A self-proclaimed “cosmetic grocer,” LUSH offers the atmosphere of a beauty deli with bars of soap piled high on wooden tables and ice-filled fridges full of chilled face masks.á

    LUSH products are created without animal testing and are 100% vegetarian, 74% vegan and 65% preservative-free. Mandalay Place will be the first and only location to offer LUSHÆs distinct brand of beauty to Las Vegas.

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

Jimmy Buffett, Neil Diamond, Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival, Jonas Brothers, John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Rush, Kenny Chesney, The Police, Rascal Flatts, Crue Fest with Motley Crue, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, ColdPlay, Bruce Springsteen, Janet Jackson, Madonna, American Idols Live, Carrie Underwood, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Elton John, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Ted,

1’st just want to mention that I checked out the i4vegas.com room prices recommended on your site, and found the room prices unbeatable.á

We always fly SW airlines, flying in from El Paso or Albuquerque…The round trip cost per person has increased about $100 in the last 5 years….but still it is a direct flight of about an hour, and Time is worth a lot….

We always stay “Downtown” on Fremont Street…because we find it more economical, and have found the food to be good, and lots of places to eat…and the availability of Casino’s in close proximity to be a real benefit! Not big high rollers, staying 3 to 4 days with a gambling account of $1000. each…it is vacation money…win or lose we tend to have a great time.á

Miss the Lady Luck, and do hope it reopens eventually…very impressed with the new look of The El Cortez, and enjoyed our gambling there, also had a nice breakfast there….this is the 1’st time that we did not go to the Strip….but stayed a day longer, did not charge any meals this trip on credit cards, and stayed within the total budget.á

Best paying slots were found at Binion’s, Fremont and Las Vegas Club, also did OK at the Golden Gate….love to be on Fremont Street…feel safe alone, and only 10 minutes from the room in any direction it seems…..

S. Brickey

á

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great letter! Seems like so many are acting like they can’t come here and have fun unless they are staying at The Wynn or Bellagio (both of which are also very inexpensive right now compared to their usual rates).á

But even with higher airfare, Las Vegas is still the most value-conscious vacation destination no matter what your budget. Certainly, I do agree that our friend at Las Vegas Hotel Deals very often come up with the best rates you will find. Can’t hurt to look and see what they have.

Thanks for the great note, and I love hearing about how everyone continues to enjoy visiting our insane city!

Hi Ted,

My youngest daughter and I are coming to Las Vegas the end of October, for a mom/daughter trip (she is 35).

We are staying at the Mirage and I would like to explore Fremont Street, but have been told it is not safe, is this true? We would take a taxi to and from the area.

Looking forward to coming to Las Vegas for my second trip and daughter’s first trip.

Marsha from Auburn Hills, Michigan

á

Ted Responds:

Good question! Fremont Street and that tourism/hotels area is as safe as The Strip. Maybe safer as the area is more concentrated. It is like an outdoor shopping mall (in terms of safety and everything being in close proximity). Maybe a little more energized and “wild” (in a good way) but certainly not unsafe.

You don’t want to wander away from the tourism area downtown, but the same can be said for The Strip. There are areas just a few blocks east of The Strip that I wouldn’t walk through at night.

Taking a cab down and back should present no issues, and a return cab home can be found at many downtown hotels (ask the cabbie to drop you off at the same place that you’ll find cabs waiting to take you back).

Best advise is to check it out in the evening when the overhead light show starts up just after dusk, playing on the hour until midnight.

Dear Ted,

A recent newsletter had a story in your “More Las Vegas News” section about the lease Steve Wynn signed for leasing his personal villa. It stated he will be paying $540,000 per year for a 2 year lease.

I admire him for all he has accomplished. This kind of wealth is very impressive to me. (his lease for one year is 2 times the value of my home). What I am curious about is what does he get for the price? The article didn’t say anything about what the villa included for the price such as size, number of rooms etc.

Is there somewhere one could read about this or if possible could you give us the details. Thanks for the great newsletter and will be looking forward to the new format.

Thank You,

Roy Winkelman

á

Ted Responds:

I’m guessing that somewhere in Wynn Las Vegas corporate documents (probably available to the public as it is a public company) are some of the details. If not, what is generally assumed on an agreement like this is the normal amenities which come with a high-end suite: Maids, butlers, limo (or similar) transportation and other use of the facilities.

Plus… as his position of CEO, he already would get free food, transportation (often including access to a jet at his disposal) and similar. Why he is leasing the suite (instead of having it included as compensation) is possibly more of a book keeping issue or something to appease stockholders.

If anyone has more insight, please do use our contact information listed below.

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

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

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

July 16, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 9, 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! This week, we are going to revisit a theme I briefly touched upon a few weeks ago: If you want the REAL Las Vegas (the one everyone enjoyed a number of years ago with inexpensive room rates, reasonably priced food, and a fair shot at winning some money)… try Fremont Street Downtown!

Important Note: Many long time visitors are very concerned about the “old” vs. “new” Las Vegas. What has changed and why. However, many have a visit planned and simply want to continue to enjoy our newsletter with the latest top Las Vegas information we always offer.

In this issue, we cover plenty of the “old” vs “new” that many readers are demanding. However… for the sake of keeping the newsletter a reasonable length, we will be posting some of that topic online for further review.

Loose Slots, Single Deck Blackjack, 100 Times Odds On Craps, 99% Payback Slot Bank, Full Pay Video Poker – If you’ve been visiting Las Vegas more than five years, the odds are that you saw similar advertisements and signs in various casinos on The Strip and Downtown. Then, Las Vegas got hot. Happening. The hip place to go.á

The Travel Channel seemed like “The Las Vegas Channel” because they showed so many Vegas-related programs. Any news out of Las Vegas made newspapers world-wide. This brought record numbers of new visitors to town.

Click to continue to read Loose Slots And How To Still Enjoy The “New” Las Vegas

Las Vegas Downtown Day and Night Views:
Click Pictures Below For More!

Fremont Street Downtown Hotels

Fremont Street Experience Downtown Las Vegas

Looking for information on some Downtown Las Vegas hotels at great rates? Here you go!

Binion’s
California
El Cortez
Fitzgerald’s
Four Queens		 Golden Gate
Golden Nugget
Las Vegas Club
Main Street Station
Plaza Hotel

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
See Where Your Favorite Event Is Playing!

Jimmy Buffett, Neil Diamond, Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival, Jonas Brothers, John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Rush, Kenny Chesney, The Police, Rascal Flatts, Crue Fest with Motley Crue, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, ColdPlay, Bruce Springsteen, Janet Jackson, Madonna, American Idols Live, Carrie Underwood, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Elton John, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition – Moving, Memorable & Haunting

by Devon Brooke Clasen

A far cry from the flashy, showy style of so many shows and attractions in Las Vegas,áTitanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Tropicana Resort presents a moving, memorable yet haunting historic survey of the 20th century’s most infamous maritime disaster, showcased in a generously sized 25,000-square-foot retrospective.

Entering the exhibit, each visitor is outfitted with a personal audio device, supplying narrated commentary and facts as well as dramatic readings of historic quotes from figures connected to the ship’s construction.

Additionally, guests are provided with a charming keepsake boarding pass for the RMS Titanic, complete with the name and personal information of an actual passenger, whose fate is to be revealed upon the exhibition’s completion; a clever yet sobering touch to truly personalize the experience.

Click to Read Entire Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
X Burlesque – Sharp, Sexy, and Entertaining

by Lincoln Hudson

What Happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, as the saying goes. At The Flamingo, nothing could be hotter than the extraordinary 75 minute high octane dance show called ‘X-Burlesque.

Sharp, sexy and very entertaining to the eye, the X-Girls perform in the Second City Theatre displaying a beautiful mixture of both modern dance and the avant-garde. Sexy or adult musical revues seem to be catching on in Vegas these days and this one seems quite happy to be competing alongside Bite and Cirque Du Soleil’s Zumanity.

Click to Read X Burlesque Las Vegas Review…

American Superstars Show Still On Top At The Stratosphere Casino Hotel And Tower – The American Superstars show, which opened in Las Vegas with the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower in April 1996, has signed a contract extension through November 2009. (Tickets) This allows the show to continue to wow audiences with its line-up of celebrity tributes, announced American Casino & Entertainment Properties officials. “The American Superstars show has thrived in the competitive Vegas entertainment market because it is quality entertainment which leaves audiences feeling entertained at a fair price,” said Mark Callas, who produces American Superstars with his Springtime Productions partner, Donny Moore. Click to Read The Full Story …


The American Superstars are Still on Top after 12 Years at the Stratosphere Hotel. Front row – Dancer Nadia Albulet, Chad Givens as Tim McGraw, Damian Brantley as Michael Jackson, Lorena Peril as Christina Aguilera, John Anthony as Rod Stewart, Darren Lee as Elvis, and dancer Teresa McAuliffe. Back row – dancer Erica Chandler, dancer Audrey Rusher, and dancer Renee Herter.

Classic Strip Favorites Offer Modern New Looks – This summer, visitors to Las Vegas are invited to check out the new room designs at some of their favorite hotels. HereÆs where to check in during your next stay:

  • Scheduled for completion in August, striking new room designs at The Mirage feature eye-catching color schemes, cool metals and warm woods. Standard amenities include pillow-top mattresses, down comforters, feather pillows, cordless phones and ergonomic office chairs. A dedicated media hub allows computers, video iPod/MP3 players and game systems to be displayed on each roomÆs 42-inch LCD television.
  • Scheduled for completion in late 2009, a contemporary room redesign at Excalibur offers a modern take on the resortÆs classic castle theme. Currently offering 2,000 newly remodeled accommodations, ExcaliburÆs Widescreen Room features a 42-inch plasma television and modern comforts such as pillow-top mattresses and iPod-compatible clock radios. A soothing color palette of soft blues, creamy yellows and deep browns creates an inviting ambiance.
  • Recently completed, a $60 million suite remodel at Bellagio reflects the feel of an upscale residence while providing the amenities of a luxury resort. The dramatic new look of seven suite types combines sumptuous textiles with dark woods and a rich color palette. Indulgent in-suite conveniences include high-speed Internet access, iHome clock radios, DVD players, multi-line phones, fax machines, laptop safes, automatic draperies and flat-screen, high-definition televisions.

Lance Burton Master Magician Show – New Wonders Await! – Lance Burton headlines his own “Master Magician” show at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino after 12 years there performing some of the world’s greatest tricks. (Tickets) A couple of years ago Lance added some new mind-boggling illusions to wow audiences from their senses from 0 to 60 in a flash. Not only our his hands faster than a camera but his new creative illusion are so baffling that a network from Germany filmed and aired a TV special called: “Lance Burton: The Greatest Magician on Planet Earth.” He recently appeared on “THE VIEW” and David Letterman. Click to Read The Full Story …


UFC fighter Chuck Liddell was at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino July 4, 2008 and surprised fans with a special appearance at Hell’s Belles where he dealt blackjack for about an hour.

Gambling Talk: Introduction To Texas Hold’em – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the first of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Introduction To Texas Hold’em (broadband)

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $58, Sahara from $35, Strat. from $48, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $37, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

My wife and I just returned home from our Vegas trip (6 nights/5 days). We stayed for the first time at the Paris (2 nights) and then 4 nights downtown at Main Street Station. The biggest change we noticed was the lack of people.á

I know it was the 4th of July week, but the ‘people’ traffic was much less than before. We asked a floor person at MSS about traffic and she too said the size of the crowds were much smaller than they use to be. My guess as well as hers was, ‘all about the cost of gas’.

I think the casinos are helping their bottom line by making slots much tighter, just as the airlines are charging for suitcases and giving less service. It may be time to re-think our Vegas trips. Enjoy your weekly publication.

The Kinneys,

Pleasant Garden, NC

á

Ted Responds:

I agree with you: The gaming properties tried to squeeze tourists too hard during the good times, and it is biting them back during the bad times.

For decades, people would go through hell and high water to get to Las Vegas regardless of the economy. They knew the reward would be reasonably priced rooms and food, plus a fair chance at winning some money.

It is a rude awakening for many in hotel/casino management, many whom have never been here long enough to see a downturn and thought the “gravy train” of the past few years was the norm.

My prediction? Everyone will finally see a return to some of the “old Vegas” way of doing things that attracted so many for so long.

Click to read my entire response: Lack Of Las Vegas Visitors?

Since reviewing things on your site as well as others, itÆs apparent that Las Vegas is experiencing a slow down in economy. Gambled money and room occupancy is down, even our paper has reported it in the Sunday travel section. My suggestion is to have the city and casinoÆs work in conjunction with the airlines to help lower the cost of flights in and out of Las Vegas.

My wife and I travel on the average 4 times a year to L.V., being that we gamble a lot, Hooters has ôcompedö us for each stay. The travel is whatÆs costing us and preventing us from going more then 2 times this year so far. An example of price fares form Cleveland to L.V. via Continental airlines û In April it was $ 198. round trip ; in May it was $ 218. round trip; now the cheapest we can travel is $ 438. round trip.

I know airlines are taking a beating on fuel cost, but if the city and casinoÆs can work with the airlines to help subsidize travel I would bet that more people would come out and reverse the decline in gambling revenue and room occupancy. ItÆs just a suggestion, for a 4day û 3 night trip we generally add $ 1,500. to the L.V. economy via gambling; food; drinks; and misc spending. Thank you for your time to review my request,

John M. Kacvinsky

á

Ted Responds:

Interesting thoughts. Actually, the hotels are starting to “subsidize” the cost of the flights by slashing their room rates. You end up paying more for your flight, but less for rooms.

I realize that doesn’t help those like you who gamble enough to get your stay comped. For those of you who do play enough to get free rooms, I’d strongly suggest writing the hotel you give your action to and simply tell them “Hey… we come and gamble a lot of money, but airfare is killing us and a free room just doesn’t make it worth coming out. Is there any way players at are level can get something like a rebate on our airfare, extra free play, or meals?”

Per the city or casinos subsidizing flights:

Click to read my entire response: Getting Cheaper Flights Into Las Vegas?

Reader Gary Johanknecht of Wisconsin alerted me to a letter he wrote to the editor of our local Review-Journal paper. You can read it at No next time (third letter down on that page). Believe me… the powers that be are starting to listen to you. They have no choice!

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:

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

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

July 9, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 3, 1999

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Free Las Vegas Newsletter

Archived Edition:
News, reviews, and advertising offers are current at time of publication.
Updated Las Vegas Information: Click Here

June 3, 1999

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

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

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This Issue:ááá Megabucks Hits! plus piles of current Las Vegas information

Curious about a buffet, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun but you just haven’t gone out of your way to try yet? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com


 

MEGABUCKS

 

MOB LAWYER FOR MAYOR

 

LAS VEGAS AIRLINE UP AND FLYING!

 

National Airlines website is at http://www.nationalairlines.com

COMDEX

 

You can also secure your rental cars early and save through http://www.accessvegas.com

SUMMER IS HERE – With the temperatures generally climbing (Memorial Day weekend saw highs close to 100 and lows in the mid-60’s), we can’t stress enough the importance of drinking plenty of water while out there. Because of the very low humidity, you perspire greatly but don’t realize it because it evaporates off of your body immediately. Drinking booze dehydrates you further. Either way, we suggest stopping by the hotel bars on a regular basis and grabbing a bottled water. Your body will thank you, your stamina will by higher, and you’ll enjoy your vacation a lot more. For those of you that live in Las Vegas, or stay for extended periods of time, you may with to check out Water and Ice at
http://www.waterandicelv.com Unlike those unregulated machines that bake in the sun, Water and Ice is a Grade A, regulated establishment.

PRIME TIME LAS VEGAS TV SHOW – The UPN Network (also seen on most cable systems on WGN out of Chicago) has bought 13 weeks of a new TV show called “The Strip”. It will shoot in Las Vegas, and the basic premise will be 2 ex-Metro police officers working as security for the Tropicana hotel and solving crimes, etc. Seems like they had a similar series like that here once …. something with the word VEGA$ in the name …. We wish the new series well and hope it give you all a great weekly shot of your favorite vacation destination.

HARD ROCK HOTEL EXPANSION

 

NEW AIRPORT

 

SAMS TOWN

 

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This newsletter is absolutely FREE. In addition, we dip into our own pocket for the cost of dining, attractions and other reviews to give you a 100% unbiased viewpoint (unlike the tourist magazines and other newsletters which are basically paid advertisements). If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us.

http://www.accessvegas.com offers you low prices for hotels and rental cars in LAS VEGAS and NATIONWIDE! It’s our sister site featuring secure online booking and INSTANT confirmation. Don’t spend hours on the phone. Book today the cheap, easy way and save!

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Your input is welcome. Don’t agree with something we said? Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Guest article submissions are also welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc. Have a request for a review? Boggled when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where all of the “articles” are really paid ads, we pull out our own wallet and give you the honest scoop.

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You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright 1999 Ted Newkirk
June 3, 1999