Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 26, 2003

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

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

This Issue: Dirk Arthur: The New Art of Magic

Also In This Issue – February 26, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, Hotel/Show Giveaway, News Of Interest To Tourists, Hiking – Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas Golf Club
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Fitzgeralds Las Vegas and Larry G. Jones Presents:
“Man of 1002 Voices” Las Vegas Giveaway

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Winner will receive:

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Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Megabucks Will Be World Record – Nevada Megabucks is currently at $34,955,600 and will continue to increase until someone wins it. That lucky person will also become part of history in the next edition of The Guinness Book of Records. Read More …

Fire Safety – In light of the tragic Rhode Island fire, many wonder how safe entertainment activities are. Especially in Las Vegas where many production shows use pyro and so many concerts and events roll through town. Clark County (Las Vegas) has 35 inspectors handling the roughly 200 special events that apply for the use of pyrotechnics. Paperwork is filled out weeks in advance and inspectors preview all effects. The depth of the staff insures that someone is on hand no matter what time of day an event happens.

Boogity, Boogity, Boogity – NASCAR’s UAW-Daimler Chrysler 400 invades the Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend and the event has been sold out for weeks. No ticket? Stuck home? Note the 11:30 AM Pacific start time and tune to your local Fox station. The best way to get to the race? Take the Cat Ride Race Shuttle (run by our local public bus service). This is the only way to go, as these busses use special routes that get you to the speedway in 45 minutes. I’m rooting for home-town boy #97 but the #2 is a sentimental favorite.

Rio Abrupt Cocktail Change – When the Rio opened, it was famous for beautiful, young cocktail waitresses in outfits that weren’t much more than a one-piece thong swimsuit. Now they are scrapping the entire cocktail staff to hire drink servers who will perform singing and dancing choreographed routines throughout the gaming area.

Some feel this is a way to get rid of cocktail waitresses who may not look at good in the skimpy outfits as they did a decade ago. Others see it as part of a bigger world-wide resort trend toward performing bartenders and waitresses. You can read The Rio’s press release and let us know what you think in our Rio Replaces Cocktail Servers forum. Think this will fly? Sound like a good change or will you miss the current waitresses? Let us know!

Ticket Advice – We often get asked how to get tickets to the very popular shows like “O”, Mystere, Siegfried and Roy, Blue Man Group, and Danny Gans. Yes we have them (at face value). Yes, they go very quickly. The key is to buy well in advance, but keep this in mind: some tickets are not released for sale more than three months ahead.

Our advice? Once your travel dates are set in stone, visit our Las Vegas Shows page and check availability. If that hard-to-get show has tickets available, buy them. If not available yet, keep checking back every few days and specifically 85-90 days before your visit. Most Las Vegas shows are now reserved seating, so even if you aren’t trying for a tough ticket, buying in advance often insures better seats.

Cook E. Ain’t No Rookie – Infamous club and lounge performer Cook E. Jarr is back at his Harrah’s Carnival Court gig midnight on Friday and Saturday nights. Cook’s 30’th birthday is probably a couple decades behind him, but his audience keeps getting younger.We were at the outdoor venue Friday night as he played to a packed bar area and ripped through both “old school” and recent dance and R & B favorites in his inimitable style.

The dance floor was packed and while the crowd skews younger, no age group is out of place. With the weather warming up, Cook E. Jarr is a party worth checking out. Plus, the Carnival Court bartenders are some of the better “flair” bartenders around. Check out our Cook E. Jarr Carnival Court photo section.

$5000 Palms Bingo Cash Giveaway – The Key West room at the Palms Resort offers bingo every Thursday: March 6,13, 20 and 27. Session times are 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Palms bingo players will receive an entry at each March session to win part of a $5,000 cash giveaway. The drawings for the $5,000 cash giveaway will be held at every session on Thursday, March 27, yielding 28 lucky winners. Read More …


You Are Reading This – and so are over 30,000 others who love Las Vegas, travel, gambling, dining, shopping and enjoying life. People like you who own and use computers and the internet and are more likely to have higher income and education levels. People who enjoy finding information and purchasing products online. Sound good? We now offer advertising in this newsletter! Click For Advertising Details


Featured Review: Dirk Arthur: The New Art of Magic

If Dirk Arthur’s name rings a bell, you may have seen the Bally’s Marquee over the past decade. Dirk was a featured act in Jubilee! and had his name in lights on the Las Vegas Strip. I’d seen him in the show, and he is good. His move to headlining status at The Silverton left people wondering if he could carry a show by himself and others wondering where The Silverton was!In an era with more shows than ever, trying their luck in just about every location and hotel you can try a show, it appears that Arthur’s gamble paid off. The Silverton’s showroom isn’t a converted lounge, but a full-sized, comfortable venue holding perhaps 400-500 people (my guess) and Dirk is filling it up on a consistent basis.

The show is aptly named The New Art Of Magic because Dirk’s specialties are huge scale illusions, the kind you often see with Lance Burton or David Copperfield. He levitates a Lamborghini and makes it vanish in mid-air. He puts a twist on the “saw the lady in half” by cutting her into nine pieces. He has an industrial size drill pierce right through him. And he makes white tigers vanish and switch places. Read More …

Featured Tour: Hiking – Red Rock Canyon

Hiking – Red Rock Canyon – We provide the transportation, water, and an interpretive guide. You choose from a selection of three of our favorite hikes in Red Rock, the White Rock/Willow Springs loop, Calico Hills, or Ice Box Canyon. For all hiking proficiency levels. Lunch is included.

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

Featured Golf Course:
Las Vegas Golf Club

Las Vegas Golf Club – A traditional favorite of Las Vegas, this layout provides a great environment for all golfers. One of the oldest courses in Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Golf Club features numerous trees and is just a few minutes from the strip.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations

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

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
February 26, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 5, 2003

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Featured Review: Sixtiesmania Rocks The Castaways

By David Berman
dberman@concentric.net

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

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

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

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

Featured Tour: Hoover Dam Tour (Suburban or Jeep)

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

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

Featured Golf Course:
Desert Rose Golf Course

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

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations

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

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 27, 2002

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that you really care about.If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to allvegastv@aol.com

This Issue: Air Play Free Tropicana Show

Also In This Issue – November 27, 2002: Newkirk’s Notes, Las Vegas Tourist News, Mt. Charleston Tour, Badlands Golf Course
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Shows | Headliners | Tours | Dining | Golf | Rental Cars | Airfare | Packages


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

Hello from Las Vegas! Thanksgiving (U.S.) is upon us and I am delighted to have my family in town but if you can’t be with family, Las Vegas is a great place to be. Cooler fall weather is here, but the action continues to be hot indoors.

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Hawaii Resident Wins $4.3 million – People keep leaving Las Vegas millionaires! A Honolulu woman has become Las Vegas’ newest millionaire hitting a $4,334,923 jackpot at the Fremont Hotel & Casino. According to witnesses, the woman who was playing a 25-cent denomination reel was celebrating her birthday. Click for full story.

Thanksgiving – is this week in the United States. Many gather with family and friends … and then head off to Las Vegas for a four day weekend. Others just head here for the holiday. If headed here and worried about getting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, don’t fret. Almost every hotel restaurant from the buffet and coffee shops to the fine dining rooms serve up a traditional seasonal feast.

New Year’s Eve – is going to be huge again this year. Confirmed. Eight minutes of fireworks from the top to bottom of The Strip! Local KLAS TV has an online video story about this year’s events. Not sure if it is worth it? Don’t know what it is like, how to get a good room (they are going fast), and what inside tips to make it the most fun night of your life? We are veterans of this “party of a lifetime” and have have the entire scoop plus tons of photos and streaming video at New Year’s Eve Las Vegas.

NFR – National Finals Rodeo hits town again this year from December 6-15. If you are country, like country music, or even just like to wear a cowboy hat, this is your time of year to be in town. The lounge bands are kicked out of town for country acts, and it is hard to spot anyone not in country garb. Plus, you can’t miss the famous Cowboy Christmas Gift Show.

You don’t need to have rodeo tickets to come enjoy Las Vegas country-style. Plenty pack the town just for the atmosphere. Almost every hotel shows the rodeo on the big screens and has bourbon and Coors Light specials. We’ll be out at various events filming and photographing for everyone who can’t make it. More next week.

2002 Billboard Music Awards – Ever wanted to go to a big awards show? Many of today’s best musicians and entertainers will present and perform during The 2002 Billboard Music Awards. The show will broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena Monday, Dec. 9 at 5 p.m. Scheduled performances may include Avril Lavigne, Creed, Faith Hill, Justin Timberlake, Nelly and the St. Lunatics, Kelly Clarkson and Puddle of Mud. Scheduled presenters at this year’s event may include JC Chasez, Justin Guarini from the American Idol television series, LL Cool J, Master P and Lil’ Romeo, Nick Carter and Snoop Dogg. Tickets and details – click here.

Palms “Skin” Lounge Screensaver – The second in our series of Las Vegas screensavers and computer wallpaper is available and (as always) at no charge. If it is getting cold where you live, warm up with images of the infamous Palms Resort pool lounge from last summer. Head to our photo gallery and click on the Palms Pool Lounge link under Screensavers/Wallpaper.

NHL Hockey Wednesday Viewing Parties – Visits by the Miller Girls and 99ó Miller Genuine Drafts at the Sports Bar (no cover charge) starting at 5 p.m., make the parties both “hot” and “cool,” as fans also get chances to win great weekly give-aways from Pepsi, Miller Beer and the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino. Enter your name for fantastic end-of-the-season prizes, then relax in the Sports Lounge and enjoy all the hard-hitting NHL action on big screen TVs. More details – click here.

Calendar For Charity – Now is the time to get a 2003 Las Vegas calendar and help a good cause. These are the same high quality Las Vegas calendars you find in hotels and gift shops at or below the gift shop price with all proceeds going to charity. See the beautiful photos and purchase info atá 2003 Las Vegas Calendar.

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


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


Featured Review: Air Play Free Tropicana Show

People always want to know about the free attractions here in Las Vegas, and The Tropicana just added a great new free show. “Air Play” is actually performed on a stage in the middle of the casino, surrounded by slot machines, under the famed Tiffany glass ceiling.Air Play features music, dancing, acrobats, high flying performers and other specialty acts that are all worth a look. Franco Deliz and Chariday Sullivan LaFontaine host the show. Deliz has film and other acting credits while LaFontaine has appeared in Midnight Fantasy (Luxor) and two seasons as an Atlanta Hawks dancer.

Click Here To Read The Rest Of This Review

Featured Tour: Mount Charleston Tour

Mount Charleston Tour – Mt. Charleston is extraordinary any time of year, with each season unveiling its own unique grandeur. This exciting tour takes you through the Toiyabe National Forest, into a majestic alpine setting. Views of the jagged, towering cliffs, encompassed by the fir, spruce and aspen trees make this landscape simply gorgeous.

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

Featured Golf Course: Badlands Golf Club

Badlands Golf Club – Badlands Golf Club is the epitome of a target desert golf course set amid the natural desert habitat. With four sets of tees to choose from, the golf course offers an exciting challenge to the casual golfer as well as the experienced player. Designed by Johnny Miller with consultation from Chi Chi Rodriguez, the course features spectacular terrain and breathtaking views.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations


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

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

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
November 27, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 13, 2002

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

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

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

Hello from Las Vegas! No newsletter last week — I was a little under the weather but happy to report doing fine. Ton of reader feedback will wait until next week. However, that didn’t stop us from adding great new features and this week we are proud to announce our new photo gallery. Plus, I guested on AM Springfield radio this morning so things are going nuts. Weather is still great, room rates are way down. Great to be in Las Vegas!

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Over 1,000 Las Vegas Photos Gallery – We are excited to announce our new Access Vegas Photo Gallery with over 1,000 Las Vegas photos! This is state-of-the-art with photos divided by category, and quick-loading thumbnail photo previews to save you time and let you see exactly what you want.

In addition, we have a hot new “Favorites” feature: If you like a photo, simply click the “Favorites” box below it. This saves it, and when you want to view all your favorites, click the top main “Favorites” button. From there, you can view them slideshow style, email them to a friend, or even download them as a zip file all at once!

We aren’t going to be greedy, either. If you have a Las Vegas page or site, feel free to post up to 25 of them on your pages. The only rules are 1. You don’t alter, crop or remove our name from them,á and 2. Put a link somewhere that says “Photos Courtesy Access Vegas” and links to http://www.accessvegas.com

Megabucks Jackpot Over $19,000,000, Play Smart – Nevada progressive slot Megabucks is well over $19 million dollars. Important warning: Play three coins in or you are screwing yourself. I can’t believe how many times I see people playing only one or two credits on a Megabucks machine. The big jackpot is only available with full coins (three dollars) in play. The machine makes this clear, but many play without looking.

New Web Poll – Vote for our November question “What is the best Las Vegas Downtown hotel?” in the poll on our main page AccessVegas.Com

R.I.P. National Airlines – Las Vegas’ hometown airline had to pack it in last week, a victim of high fuel prices soon after they launched and the post 9/11/01 tourism downturn. If you are still holding a National ticket, you can find details regarding refund possibilities or use on another air carrier at the National website. To help fill the gap, Jet Blue has accelerated plans for the New York – Las Vegas market.

Flying Getting Easier – If you have stayed out of the air since 9/11/01 or even have not flown since all the new security rules have been decided on, this article has some great advice on getting yourself through security quickly and hassle free: US unveils plan to reduce airport security delays

Zagat Top 10 – Congratulations to two Las Vegas hotels for making the Zagat survey’s 2003 Top 10 U.S. resorts: Four Seasons Las Vegas came in at #4 and Bellagio Las Vegas came in at #8.

Cash Blast at Imperial Palace – The Imperial Money Machine will be “blasting” money at 3:30 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in November and December. Five lucky customers will be drawn at random and have two minutes to get to the Kabuki Lounge and one minute to “grab” their share of over $3,000 in cash! To qualify all you have to do is “stay” or “play” at the Imperial Palace. Click For Details

Wolfgang Puck Book Signing and Dinner – Wolfgang Puck will be available to autograph his new book Live, Love, Eat: The Best of Wolfgang Puck in the Wolfgang Puck CafÚ at the MGM Grand on December 5, 2002. You can get an autograph or participate in a special dinner as well. Click For Details, Click For Book Info

Cocktail Waitress Photo Contest – A little advance notice so you can get involved in this. In January, we’ll celebrate the official launch of our photo gallery (yes, we still have much to add to it) with a Las Vegas cocktail waitress photo contest. There will be cash and other Las Vegas prizes to the winning photographers. The contest will run over a number of months, but many visit only once a year so we wanted to let you get started!

Some advice: Photos can be posed or candid, and obviously many of the outfits are sexy, but let’s show a little respect. Good rule of thumb: their head should be in the shot. No butt-only close-ups, guys. Also, different casinos have different rules on photos but generally you can’t shoot into “the pit” (live gaming area). Slot area usually OK unless you are going nuts taking tons of flash photos.

Many waitresses are very friendly and not at all camera shy. If you ask and it isn’t a super busy time, you might be surprised at how many will pose for a shot or two! And it is perfectly acceptable to honestly tell them “I just wanted to show my friends back in (your town here) how truly pretty Las Vegas waitresses are.” Complete contest details in late January. Start shooting!

AM Springfield – We had a great time this morning (even though it was 5 AM Las Vegas time) with Sam Madonia and the guys of AM Springfield on Sports Radio 1450 AM in Springfield, the capital of Illinois. The show was broadcast live from the sportsbook at the Imperial Palace.

They brought out two planeloads of people to Las Vegas and were having more fun than should be allowed! They actually had a live band playing in the sportsbook, and plenty of listeners enjoying the festivities. Plus, Sam is funny as they come. I was watching/listening to the show before my slot and he had my rolling with laughter.

We always love to talk Las Vegas, but also appreciated the opportunity to warm up for a planned media blitz early spring that will promote our continuingá AccessVegas.Com expansion. Also, thanks to Amy from Vegas Du Soleil for helping arrange the guest spot.

Calendar For Charity – Now is the time to get a 2003 Las Vegas calendar and help a good cause. These are the same high quality Las Vegas calendars you find in hotels and gift shops at or below the gift shop price with all proceeds going to charity. See the beautiful photos and purchase info atá 2003 Las Vegas Calendar.

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



Featured Review: Dice Angel

Dice Angel by Brian Rouff – We seldom review books because most Las Vegas books are a little too “insider” (only of interest to someone who knows the life story on the town’s key players) or “mathematical” (how to win at blackjack). I can’t even chow through more than a couple chapters at a time with many of them.So when I found a Vegas book that I literally could not put down, I had to tell you about it. Dice Angel is the (fictional) story of Las Vegas bar owner Jimmy Delaney and he’s got problems. With his ex-wife, the IRS, his bar getting robbed, and an embezzling accountant who happens to be part of his family. He’s not a model citizen but a hell of a likable guy.

The cool thing about his book is that both locals and visitors can relate to it. You don’t feel like an outsider reading it because this could be a guy in Cleveland or Atlanta. But what makes it extra fun is that the backdrop is Las Vegas. Who is Armaris, what happened to the accountant, and what is it like to gamble high stakes at craps? You’ve gotta read to find out!

I read it cover to cover in one sitting. The story was captivating, and a true picture of the quirks of life in Las Vegas, but written in a way that will entertain everybody. It is unfortunate that the characters are fiction. It made me want to drive over to Sahara and Jones (location of the fictional bar), look for Jimmy D’s, play a roll of video poker, and order a burger.

Read this on the plane trip here and you’ll not only be landing before you know it, but be revved up to take fresh look at everything you are going to do and see. Dice Angel is available at Amazon.Com (click) for a reasonable $14.95.

Featured Tour: Sky Dive in Las Vegas

Sky Dive in Las Vegas – Our airplane will take you all the way up to 8,000′ feet above sea level for your exit. The first tandem includes pre-jump explanation, demonstrations, video training, practice, rehearsal, & all of the how’s & why’s of what will happen and what to expect (available in Japanese, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese). The training lasts about 30-40 minutes, and you will be here a total of about 2 hours complete for your first jump.

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

Featured Golf Course: Angel Park

Angel Park – Voted Best of Las Vegas, Angel Park Golf Club is 20 minutes northwest of the Las Vegas Strip. Angel Park Golf is commonly referred to as “the world’s most complete golf experience.” Here you can enjoy the challenge and beauty of two Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole championship golf courses, experience the thrill of the game’s most famous par-threes on the Cloud Nine Short Course, and test your mettle against the intriguing putting course.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations

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


For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter please post to our message boards so that others may read and help or write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
November 13, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 30, 2002

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

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

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

Hello from Las Vegas! My apologies for the weather over the weekend. Last week I talked about the 85 (F) and sunny we had for most of October. Wouldn’t you know it — the very next day highs plummeted to the low 70’s and it rained overnight both weekend nights (although pleasant during the day). Today is a chilly 72 so I guess fall will be banging on the door in a few more weeks.

Someone wrote a recent letter to the editor of the Review-Journal (our morning paper) criticizing Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman’s endorsement of Bombay Sapphire gin. The $100,000 endorsement fee is going to charity.á The writer noted that he moved to Las Vegas from the east coast 10 years ago. I’m hoping he leaves soon. If you are thinking about moving to Las Vegas, move to Las Vegas. Accept Las Vegas. If the way we do things here isn’t your cup of tea, please move elsewhere!

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Floridian Nets $10,000 At Riviera – In town to attend the marriage of their niece at the Riviera Hotel and Casino’s wedding chapel, Mike and Elizabeth McGowen were dancing when their slot machine hit a $10,000 jackpot. The Clearwater couple was very, very happy to say the least. Mike, a retired policeman, stated, “we have no plans at the moment. Maybe a trip back to the Riviera to celebrate our niece’s marriage would be nice.”

Splash Welcomes Bronze Medallist – Splash at the Riviera Hotel & Casino welcomed back to the ice 1998 American Open Figure Skating Pro Championship Bronze Medallist Mikhail Panin with a new partner international skating champion Margarita Barber. With his new partner Barber, Panin now once again performing a breathtaking ice ballet with Barber – an enchanting ice dance of spirals and spins – as well as an acrobatic adagio routine that is leaving audiences sitting on the edge of their seats. Click here for full story.

New Year’s Eve – We have lots of new readers and everyone is curious about what the party capital of the world does for New Year’s Eve. I could tell you, but we have over 100 photos and streaming video from the last two years online for you at no charge. Go check out New Year’s Eve Las Vegas!

Coinless Slots – A major agreement has been reached for MGM/Mirage to convert to coinless ticket in-ticket out technology. Are you going to miss the “plunk, plunk, plunk” of coins hitting the tray, or do you like cashing out with a ticket you can use in another machine? We’ve posted the full story in our forums so you can read it and share your thoughts!

Jillian’s – has opened downtown at Neonopolis on the Fremont. St. Experience. A recent Friday visit showed a lively venue that is a lot of fun! Imagine a two story, upscale arcade, sports bar, lounge, and bowling ally and you have Jillian’s.

Construction Updates – Steve Wynn is scheduled to break ground Thursday October 31 on his new megaresort La Reve. Ground has been broken on the Hoover Dam bypass road and bridge. I can hear a big cheer for our friends who drive in from Arizona, New Mexico and points Southeast of Las Vegas. It won’t be done until 2007 but will cut serious time off of the trip when finished.

Phase 1 of the billion dollar Fashion Show Mall (just north of Treasure Island) is complete, introducing Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s Home to this area among the other well known department stores already part of the mall. We’ll keep you up on these projects as they progress.

Shopping – Speaking of shopping, we have just updated and expanded our Las Vegas Shopping Guide.

Calendar For Charity – Now is the time to get a 2003 Las Vegas calendar and help a good cause. These are the same high quality Las Vegas calendars you find in hotels and gift shops at or below the gift shop price with all proceeds going to charity. See the beautiful photos and purchase info atá 2003 Las Vegas Calendar.

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


Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!


Restaurant Review: Alize

Top of the Palms Casino Resort
By Chef John Guinivere – ChefLive.Com

Well folksà I now have a new favorite restaurant here in Las Vegas and I can gladly recommend it. This new restaurant is a chefÆs dream! It sits on the top of a beautiful hotel and has one of the best views in the entire city. The dining room has very high ceilings, which lets in even more for the eyes to see. The interior, from tables, chairs and carpet are all wonderful together. They could serve burgers and beer and you would thoroughly enjoy your visit. But they donÆt server burgers; they serve some of the best food in town!

Click Here To Read The Rest Of This Review

Featured Tour: Hummer Desert Exploration

Hummer Desert Exploration Tour – The mysterious Desert…only minutes from the Strip… rough terrain and dry crushing heat destroys anything not especially equipped to be there. But you are in the most powerful, safest off road vehicle ever built … HUMMER! Keep cameras ready — we may encounter Big Horn sheep, wild Burros, mustangs and even the elusive Kit Fox. This is a three hour adventure, morning and afternoon departures available.

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

Featured Golf Course: Man O’ War

Man O’ War – The Man O’ War course was the first built at Stallion Mountain and was a host course in 1991 for the PGA Tour’s Las Vegas Invitational. Chip Beck shot a 59 that year, joining Al Geiberger (at the time) as the only men in history to shoot that score. Recently, Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley redesigned it, creating a distinctive layout with undulating greens guarded by bunkering.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations


For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter please post to our message boards so that others may read and help or write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

See you on the boards!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
October 30, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 18, 2002

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

Looking for specific Las Vegas information? Use the comprehensive “Las Vegas Search” Engine at Search

THIS ISSUE: Reader Feedback and Interactive Information Forums

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at Shows
* HEADLINERS – listings available at Headliners
* CONCERTS – listings available at Concerts




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

Hello from Las Vegas! The weather has been stunning, with high temps failing to hit the 100 degree (F) mark and evenings very comfortable while never getting cold.

As noted, I flew on the anniversary of 9/11 this year from Portland, Oregon back home to Las Vegas. Both airports were very empty, and everyone on my flight got an entire row to themselves (with empty rows left over). More important than the elbow room was the ability to show my respect to those lost by not letting terrorism deter my plans. I got to visit family (including my 95 year old Great Aunt) and support the airlines on a tough day, making it a very personally rewarding trip.

We’ve been working day and night on our new Las Vegas Interactive Information Forums. So much is always happening in Las Vegas, and you guys always send such great feedback. Now we can feature more of both. Let’s get started!

WORLD RECORD JACKPOT – $8.4 million: A Santa Ana, CA man celebrated his 70th birthday on Sept. 4th by winning the world’s largest 25 cent slot jackpot. Manuel Herrera was playing Wheel Of Fortune at the Flamingo Laughlin when he won the $8.4 million jackpot. Herrera is a retired restaurant worker who was visiting Laughlin with his family and hit with $30 invested.

That same evening, and nearby 25 cent Elvis slot machine was hit for $131,000 also at Flamingo Laughlin. Information on Laughlin hotels and casinos is available at http://www.accessvegas.com/laughlin-nevada-hotels-nv.htm If you have hit a jackpot in Las Vegas (it doesn’t have to be a huge one), tell us about it at http://boards.accessvegas.com/showthread.php3?threadid=6

VEGAS ON TV – When is Las Vegas not on TV is the question! Seems when traveling I can’t flip the channels without seeing home. However, two shows to mark on your calendar: Tonight “American Idol In Vegas” films at the MGM and will air on FOX network this Monday Sept. 23.

Also, MTV’s Real World shot their latest season at The Palms over spring and summer. The cast stayed in a 28th floor penthouse suite specifically designed for the show, and worked at the casino as cocktail servers and other jobs. The suite has been left intact and is available for rent $5,000 for a weeknight and $7,500 weekend rate. Episodes are now airing Tuesday nights on MTV. Check local listings for time and channel for both shows.

YOUR OPINION COUNTS – You only have a little longer to vote in this month’s AccessVegas.Com “Best Of” Monthly Poll. This month’s questions is: “What is the best Las Vegas “Local’s” Casino? Cast your vote at AccessVegas.com Also, we are taking nominations to find the your favorite casino lounge (not nightclub) with live music and a great atmosphere. Fire us a quick email about yours to (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

FREE SMOOTH JAZZ – continues to be popular on Tuesday evenings at The Orleans in Brendan’s Pub. These events kick off around 6 PM and feature free, live music throughout the evening. This Tuesday (Sept. 24) is the CD release party for Las Vegas artist Woody Woods. Woods has performed and recorded with artists like Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Drifters, The Platters, Dizzy Gillespie, Billy Preston, and many more. The Orleans is about 1.5 miles west of The Strip on Tropicana Blvd.

NASCAR – Race weekend is February 28th to March 3rd, 2003 and if you are a NASCAR fan you know that it is never too early to grab good seats for coming races. Be the envy of your buddies (or tell them to get their finger out of their nose and join you) here in Las Vegas.

We’ve got a special package including 3 days/2 nights first class accommodation plus weekend ticket packages which include:

– General Admission to Pole Day (Friday)
– Same reserved seat in Section 3, Blue OR White level for both:
– Sam’s Town 300 NASCAR Busch Series (Saturday), and
– NASCAR Winston Cup Event (Sunday)

This event sells out quickly every year and even if you get tickets, you often have to scramble for a room. Take advantage now at http://www.thereservationcompany.com/detail_events.cfm?eventid=24&amid=143

SNAKE BABE – Comedy magician Roger Lee along with “America’s Sexiest Magician” Snake Babe perform Monday nights at 11:30 PM in the Riviera’s Le Bistro Theatre. You may recognize Lee as the “plumbing guy” in Home Base commercials and is a member of the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. Snake Babe has been displaying her snakes at MGM’s Studio 54 for three years and her magic involves fire eating, comedy, snakes, and other illusions.

CIGARS – We recently stopped by the Las Vegas Cigar Company store in the Boardwalk Hotel (between Bellagio and Monte Carlo). Often, independent cigar shops can be hit and miss in quality but the prices were good so I took a chance. Very pleased, to say the least. Their Churchill goes for under $5.00 and was a fine, mild smoke. Worth checking out.

Quick cigar note: Las Vegas is more cigar friendly than most places, but always ask before lighting up and also take into consideration the people around you. Ask around … most hotels have at least one nice, cigar friendly lounge.

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


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


SHOW REVIEW:

Hang tight one more issue and we’ll get back into the reviews. Scroll down for great reader feedback and our new Interactive Information Forums!

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

Show Review Criteria: We understand that Las Vegas attracts visitors of varied budgets and interests. Shows are reviewed on the basis of value for dollar spent as well as to present the reader enough knowledge of the content to make an informed decision.

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

FEEDBACK:

After months of planning, we are launching our AccessVegas.Com Interactive Information Forums! We really enjoy putting out this newsletter twice monthly, and for a few, that is enough Vegas for them. However, that left us in a bind: So much great information crosses our desk almost daily, and we get some of the best reader feedback and letters but we’ve had no room for them.

Now we do! Our new Interactive Information Forums at http://boards.accessvegas.com allow us to expand as a comprehensive, independent Las Vegas information source. We’ll continue to feature great news and feedback here in the newsletter, but will put additional informative posts in the forum. For example, the forum would have let us immediately note that free tickets for the “American Idol In Vegas” taping became available on short notice last week.

Plus, instead of just reading feedback here, you can go to the forums and put your two cents in so that others can benefit from your thoughts! We’ll also be able to answer more of your questions for the benefit of all.

Now on to reader feedback!

Dear Ted: The proper authorities should also investigate “long hauling” between The Strip and Old Vegas. We visited in May. The trip to Old Vegas via The Strip was only $9.50 with moderate traffic. The trip back to our hotel (The Aladdin) via the freeway was $17.00. I did not tip the return driver. When I asked for my change, he said that he thought that the difference was his tip. I then explained to him that since he decided to show us a panoramic view of The Strip from the freeway, that he had already gotten his tip in the form of an increased fare. Strangely, he quickly found $3. Needless to say, it’s taxi drivers like our second one (and the 4 in front of him) who give taxi drivers in Las Vegas a bad name.

As we continue to report here, cab drivers continue to “long haul” and rip unsuspecting tourist off. We have had it happen to us when mistaken for tourists. We want you to have the best vacation possible, so we are working hard to fight this.

We have posted four important pointers that will keep you from getting “long hauled” by the cabbies, let you know what to do if it happens (believe it or not, calling the cab company is the WRONG thing to do), and let you enjoy a better vacation with more cash in your pocket. Check out our pointers at http://boards.accessvegas.com/showthread.php3?threadid=1 and feel free to add your experiences.

Lynn Banks from England wrote:

I had always thought Las Vegas was a large Casino where people had tacky weddings – Boy was I wrong!!

We had a wedding booked in One World Trade Center (Windows on the World) on October 27th 2001, the 6th anniversary of when we met. Obviously with the atrocities of September 11th, this was canceled, but we still wanted to go ahead and not let the terrorists spoil our wedding.

We had always joked about a Las Vegas wedding (Elvis or a Limo!!) but didn’t want a tacky wedding. We had designer dresses and suits and had planned for a small, but formal reception (11 people).

When I realized that Las Vegas was probably the only place in the world I could organize a wedding in a couple of weeks, I started to look at the options.

What I found was amazing, I had spent 10 months organizing a wedding in New York, and in Las Vegas everything was at my fingertips. The chapels sort out everything from Limo transport to photographs and videos. They will even convert the video to a British format, so you can watch it when you get back to England.

Lynn’s letter is much longer and has some great information for anybody thinking about getting married in Las Vegas (or who wants to relive their Las Vegas wedding). You can read her great letter and chime in on Las Vegas weddings at http://boards.accessvegas.com/showthread.php3?threadid=2

N. Mills wrote:

I have taken about 3 trips to Las Vegas in the last year with my son & his wife. We go to visit my daughter’s family & of course, Grandma watches the children while they go have fun. I’m not complaining, I love the kids & it’s my chance to bond with them! Recently my best friend of 51 years & I took a “girls vacation”!

We used your site & found an excellent deal at Fitzgerald’s. The staff there were all very courteous, even at our favorite nickel machines. Our stay couldn’t have been more wonderful. The Fremont Experience was extremely enjoyable & we didn’t find staying in “old downtown” a bad experience at all. (I had friends at work say “oh, you don’t want to stay in that area”!)

Even on the Greyhound Bus from AZ (my friend flew from Ca) people were saying the same thing, it made me worry. NOT TO WORRY! We would do it again. Not only did we visit almost all of the casino’s, & do a little gambling in each, we found: Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory Tour, the Vitamin Factory Tour, Chinatown (not like S.F. Ca Chinatown, we were disappointed here). We felt like kids sneaking out on the parents, 10 am – 3:30 am daily! Did we do Vegas or what?

We both want to thank you so much for your site. We found an extremely excellent hotel deal, as well as trip planning ideas, through your web site! Keep up the great work. I always tell people about your site & give credit where credit IS DUE. Thanks again & have a great year. Next time we’ll do museums & other sites.

We are always so happy when we help people have a great trip. There is so much to do and see here in Las Vegas that it is almost scary! No matter what your interest, you won’t be bored here.

Readers, we now have a section on our forums for trip reports. Tell us in detail about your last visit and continue this discussion at http://boards.accessvegas.com/showthread.php3?threadid=3

Iris wrote:

I recently spent 5 days at Imperial Palace. Rented car from Alamo very cheap, was an internet price, I called my car insurance to see if I was covered, they said yes. When we got the car the people there told us that most insurance won’t cover loss of use while waiting to be fixed, so I paid the $75. to be sure. Since I got home I noticed that my credit card has insurance on rental cars if paid for with the credit card, and it covers loss of use. Thought this might be useful for some other potential Vegas visitors. Love your Newsletter!

Great advice. If you have insurance on your car at home, it may very well cover rental cars as well. Also, many credit cards provide complimentary coverage so you can waive the insurance fees which car rental companies attempt to sell you.

However, no one should assume anything. If you carry insurance on your personal car, call and ask them if it includes rental cars. Also, call your credit card company to assure they offer the coverage and ask them about the depth of it.

Readers, do you rent a car when you come to town? Would you suggest it? Any tips for those thinking about it? Share your thoughts and continue this discussion at http://boards.accessvegas.com/showthread.php3?threadid=4

FINAL NOTE: I want to personally thank the many from around the world who submitted feedback related to Sept. 11, 2001. We certainly appreciate the sentiment and the resolve to live your lives normally. This was well represented by Lynn Banks from England who didn’t let it stop her wedding plans and traveled to Las Vegas to make the dreams of her special day possible after they were initially dashed.

We wish New York well in rebuilding, we support actions against terrorism, and we are moving on. Thus, no 9/11 area in our new Interactive Information Forums nor any posted feedback. We thank you for traveling, we thank you for considering Las Vegas as your vacation or getaway destination, and we are going to work harder than every to bring you the fun and excitement this great city offers!

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms
* Discount Rental Cars
* Tours – Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, More
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air)
* Toll Free Discount Room Hotline: TOLL FREE 1-888-254-0637, USA and Canada. 561-845-8899, International. Give Promo Code 4558 when calling.

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

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

Need quality, inexpensive web hosting to suit any and every need? We trust our hosting to HighLogic.com

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 18, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 12, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 80 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

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

THIS ISSUE: “O” by Cirque du Soleil

LAS VEGAS DEALS:

* Sahara – From $39.95 until 08/31/02
* New Frontier – From $39.95 until 07/31/02
* Luxor – From $79.95 until 08/31/02

All of these deals and more available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm Toll Free Discount Room Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

LAS VEGAS: Tours, Entertainment, Hotels, Packages, Weddings, Gambling, Golf, Nightlife, Dining, and Weather — get it all at http://www.accessvegas.com




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

Hello from Las Vegas! I screwed up last newsletter. I failed to note that Celine Dion had just announced the opening of her new show at Caesars and that limited tickets were going on sale. How could I make such a huge error? She starts performing … drumroll … hold your breath for this one … March 25, 2003. Don’t worry too much about ticket availability. She’s performing in a 4000 seat theater and word on the street is that she’ll have a tough time selling it out every night.

Please, no hate mail. We aren’t taking a swipe here. Just telling it like it is. We are excited to eventually see the new show and think the attention it focuses on Las Vegas is fantastic. We wish her the best and will be talking much more about the show as March 2003 gets closer.

DINING AND RESTAURANTS – We’ve just completed an overhaul on our dining page! Restaurants are now listed by hotel, each with a brief overview and note of cuisine. We’re also proud to announce a partnership with Las Vegas based http://www.cheflive.com to provide in-depth dining reviews which will be available starting next newsletter. Visit our new dining page at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-restaurants.htm

BEST OF LAS VEGAS – We have a winner in last month’s “Best Luxury Hotel” readers poll. Bellagio came in #1 with 38% of the vote, Venetian at #2 at 27%. No surprise there but the race for third place was very tight: Caesars (10%) edged out Mandalay Bay (9%). See, your vote does count. This months poll is “What is the best place to view Las Vegas?” Go to http://www.accessvegas.com and get your vote in! A future category will be “Best Buffet.” Email nominations and suggestions to (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

MORE PHOTOS – We continue to add photos to our Las Vegas photo section! Over the past two weeks, we’ve added photos for Bellagio (including the fountains), Venetian, Aladdin, and Caesars Palace hotels. Grand Canal Shoppes and Forum Shops. Caesars Magical Empire. Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire. Go enjoy all the new photos at http://www.accessvegas.com/cgi-bin/IFPro/imageFolio.cgi

MEGABUCKS – finally hit! Johanna Heundl, a 74-year-old retired printer from Covina, CA won the $22,618.156.67 jackpot at Bally’s on May 27’th. She decided to run $100 through the machine on her way to breakfast. When that was gone, she decided to give it one more shot with another $100 bill and hit with 23 credits left on the machine.

HOTEL STRIKE – A handful of smaller properties (mostly downtown) have yet to reach an agreement with the union and a July 1 strike is certainly a possibility at those hotels. The union wants the same deal the major Strip hotel workers got. These mostly older and less profitable hotels feel they can’t afford the demands.

Although word is that replacement workers are ready to go, you may wish to avoid booking these hotels until the dust has settled (either with a contract or with replacement workers getting into the groove of their jobs). List of possible affected hotels at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-hotel-strike.htm

SELF-GUIDED TOURS – We are pleased to endorse two new recorded driving tours that let you enjoy the scenic wonders just a few miles outside Las Vegas. Travelog has put together driving tours of both Hoover Dam/Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon. Being familiar with both of the routes, I listened to them and was please with these professional, in-depth tours.

Each tour comes with both CD and cassette as well as a detailed tour map. The narration goes into significant and helpful detail for each area you are driving through. If you want to explore the beauty of the Desert Southwest, these are well worth the money. And for those who don’t have a car when visiting, we continue to offer one of the largest selection of guided tours available for our area:

* Travelog Hoover Dam / Valley of Fire:
ááá http://www.qksrv.net/click-4500-7092978
* Travelog Red Rock Canyon:
ááá http://www.qksrv.net/click-4500-7092979
* AccessVegas.Com Tour Page:
ááá http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

COMEDY, TRICKS AND NAKED CHICKS – starring Fielding West is moving up to an 8 PM time slot at the Bourbon St. Hotel Casino (1/2 block off The Strip on Flamingo). If you missed our review here a few months ago, it is archived (with photos) at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/fielding-west-las-vegas-shows.htm

THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER – This popular “girls night out” male cabaret revue from Australia has moved down the street from New Frontier to Excalibur. Ticket info at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=2&showid=372&cityid=1

CHICKEN TIC-TAC-TOE – The Tropicana is giving people a chance to play tic-tac-toe against a chicken for the chance to win $10,000. We were unable to attend the press premiere today but will check it out soon. The promotion will go on for at least one year and is modeled after a similar Atlantic City promotion.

SOUL OF MAGIC – Producer Will Roya continues to bring affordable afternoon entertainment to Las Vegas, the lastest being Victor and Diamond. This magic duo primarily uses a background of jazz music to enhance their unique illusions. Among many accolades, Victor and Diamond have been voted the best act for television by NHK, the Japanese Broadcasting Association. They play at 2 PM Saturday through Tuesday at the New Frontier (formerly The Frontier, just north of Treasure Island and Fashion Show Mall) and the price is right: $14.95 which includes two drinks.

FOOD SPECIALS – Arizona Charlie’s (both locations) is offering a 14 oz. Porterhouse Steak Special for $6.95 in the cafe available seven days a week from 5-10 PM. Here at AccessVegas.Com we have heard your feedback. Many of you drive in or fly and rent a car and stay at the many hotel/casinos around the Vegas Valley. We will be covering more events at many off-Strip hotels. For those who never set foot off of The Strip, don’t worry: We’ll continue to have you covered.

ZAX – is the new “contemporary continental” restaurant at the Golden Nugget. With a modern feel and lunch starting at $10 it looks to cater to the downtown power lunch crowd as well as visitors who want a nice lunch experience. Dinner is also served, starting at $18 and including selections like Mojo New York Steak, Knob Creek Honey Salmon, sushi, pizzas and pastas, hot and cold deli sandwiches and more.

SUBSCRIPTION “DUES” – This newsletter is absolutely free! We enjoy bringing you great Las Vegas information. If you enjoy our newsletter, we ask two small things: Consider booking your hotels, shows, and tours through http://www.accessvegas.com or the links in this newsletter. We have great rates and fantastic selection in every category. Also, turn your friends on to Las Vegas by forwarding a copy to them and suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.




SHOW REVIEW:

“O” by Cirque du Soleil – How do you really accurately describe the most stunning sunset you have ever seen? A majestic snowcapped series of mountains out of an airplane window on a clear day? Modern marvels such as Hoover Dam or the Golden Gate Bridge? No words do them justice. This is my challenge as I try to describe Cirque du Soleil’s “O” at The Bellagio.

Las Vegas hotel visionary Steve Wynn was going to build Bellagio and was dead-set on making it the most spectacular hotel in the world. He had already partnered with Cirque du Soleil to bring the fabulously successful Mystere to his Treasure Island hotel. But Bellagio needed a show that would top what was already the most spectacular show in town. Out of that vision and desire, “O” was born.

“O” is performed on a stage that is water. A 25 foot deep, 1.5 million gallon, 150×150 ft. pool with hydraulic stage sections lets the 81 member cast alternate between standing on dry land, “walking on water,” swimming, and even spectacular dives. No canned music here — live musicians create the soundtrack. A $70 million theater gives the utmost in creature comforts from the seats to the climate (maintaining a comfortable environment despite a room focused around a body of water). And, all that attention to detail before the first performer entertains.

Be in your seat 15-20 minutes early as they suggest. We don’t want to give anything away … except to say that the warm up sets the mood for the show. Once the curtain drops, we are treated to synchronized swimming. However, this isn’t the Olympics. These world class performers do it in a way to set the stage for this journey that links fire, earth, air, and water.

Cirque du Soleil is a name obviously derived from circus, and I’m not talking about the pink casino at the North end of The Strip. The next act featured twins who performed a spellbinding duo trapeze act above the pool while enveloped in the music and atmosphere of this spellbinding production. The journey continued.

Imagine if you will gymnastics performed on water. Gymnasts who spring, twist, flip and turn on an island in a remote sea, able to spring themselves into the water and then back to land again and again to display varied acrobatics. Imagine a steel framed ship high above water where aerial cradle acts and gymnastic parallel bars coming together to create a mesmerizing spectacle.

Imagine island-inspired, fire-based rituals that you may have seen on vacation in Hawaii or on television, brought to life in a slightly twisted concept, and incorporated into a human fire stunt the likes of which you may never see anywhere else. This right before your very eyes. Imagine performers entering the theater from all angles to take part in an aquatic celebration of love and life.

The depth of “O” is like that of a great movie. As spectacular as the circus-inspired performances are (far more than I’ve listed), and as amazing as this unique room is, this show is deeper. “O” is theatre. It has quiet moments and special characters that bring life’s most intimate quirks to our attention. It has activity not just for the sake of activity, but because different people are drawn to different things. You may see an entirely different show than the person sitting next to you, but you both have seen a show to remember.

For those wondering, the show is well worth the $100-plus ticket price. If you’ve never splurged on an extravagance such as this one, and if you never do it again, do it just this once. You won’t be disappointed. You’ll probably want to go back. I know I do.

“O” by Cirque du Soleil plays at Bellagio. “O” sells out night after night, and well in advance. This is one show worth planning your entire visit around. For current times and ticket prices, please click http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=2&showid=3&cityid=1 and enter the dates of your visit to display prices and availability.

Try to book well in advance. Play with different dates (the beauty of online reservations). If no tickets are available during your next visit, you can call Bellagio when you arrive and find out how to wait in the standby line. Tickets set aside for high rollers and other invited guests sometimes go unused. Please understand that standby is first come, first served with no guarantees.

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Show Review Criteria: We understand that Las Vegas attracts visitors of varied budgets and interests. Shows are reviewed on the basis of value for dollar spent as well as to present the reader enough knowledge of the content to make an informed decision.

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EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
* HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm
* CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

FEEDBACK:

We encourage you to post comments about specific Las Vegas hotels, shows, attractions, and general trip reports to our Comment Las Vegas message board at http://boards.accessvegas.com

For comments or questions regarding the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms: http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Tours – Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, More: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air): http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Discount Room Hotline: 1-888-254-0637 (use savings promo code 4558)

MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas opinions! Our boards are new so let’s fill them up with the good, bad, and just general comments on your last visit. Ask questions before you go, help others with comments when you return! Plus, we now have a section for trip reports. New boards at http://boards.accessvegas.com

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

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
June 12, 2002

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 18, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 60 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This monthly newsletter is free and supported by commissions from sales of hotel rooms, rental cars, and other travel services we offer. Your bookings using the following links support this effort.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms: http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Low Airfare: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air): http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Discount Room Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

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

MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas opinions! Our boards are new so let’s fill them up with the good, bad, and just general comments on your last visit. Plus, we now have a section for trip reports. New boards at http://boards.accessvegas.com


Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!


LAS VEGAS NEWS, INFO, and SPECIALS:

Wheel of Fortune has been very, very lucky. The Harrah’s win was in November, and the December win just happened a few days ago. You could be next!

ARIZONA MAN WINS BIG AT HARRAH’S:

Bryan Sundblom says that the first thing he’s going to do with the $2.5 million he won Sunday evening at Harrah’s Las Vegas playing Wheel of Fortune(R) quarters is buy his wife a new car. The Arizona microbiologist said the jackpot came as such a surprise, he had to be told several times that he had hit the progressive.

In Las Vegas on business, Sundblom said he had invested $22.00 in the
machine when the Wheel of Fortune(R) logos lined up. In addition to the new
car, he says he’ll pay off bills and looks forward to enjoying his millionaire
status.

HAWAIIAN GUEST HITS $2.5 MILLION JACKPOT AT THE CALIFORNIA HOTEL:

Honolulu resident David Tokunaga is the latest of Las Vegas’ big winners, grabbing a stunning $2.5 million jackpot at the California Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Mr. Tokunaga was playing the “Wheel of Fortune” slot machine.

BELLAGIO HONORED WITH AAA FIVE DIAMOND AWARD:

Association Five Diamond Award, the first Las Vegas hotel and casino and the largest resort in AAA history to receive this honor. The AAA Five Diamond Award, presented to fewer than one-half percent of the approximately 40,000 lodgings and restaurants in the AAA TourBook guides, has been the most coveted symbol of excellence in the travel industry since its inception in 1977.

“The Five Diamond Award is only given to establishments that exemplify an impeccable standard of excellence,” said AAA spokesman Atle Eriingsson. “What makes Bellagio even more impressive is its ability to achieve such a standard with over 3,000 rooms, far more than any other Five Diamond winner, which until now have included properties with 10 to 896 guestrooms.”

To be considered for AAA approval and rating, lodgings and restaurants must undergo a thorough, unannounced, inspection by one of AAA’s s 60 full-time professional evaluators. Five Diamond establishments go through the most extensive reviews.

Inspired by the beautiful villages of Europe, Bellagio overlooks a Mediterranean-blue eight-acre lake in which fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet choreographed to music and lights. Bellagio offers 3,005 deluxe guest rooms and suites featuring sweeping vistas of the resort’s lake, surrounding mountains and Las Vegas skyline. Each room is elegantly appointed with custom European-style furnishings, fine art and conveniences such as computer and fax accessible data ports and multiple telephone lines.

Within Bellagio are award-winning dining experiences including the world-renowned Picasso, a year-round botanical conservatory, a world-class art gallery, Cirque du Soleil’s stunning performance of “O”,” luxurious spa services and an elegant casino. The resort’s shopping promenade, Via Bellagio, features upscale shops including Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Prada, Fred Leighton, Hermes, Moschino and Yves Saint Laurent.

With Las Vegas room rates still down a bit, this is the perfect time to indulge on your next trip and be one of the few that can say “I stayed at a 5 Diamond Resort”! Link to Bellagio information and rates / availability at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm

THE STEAK HOUSE – CIRCUS CIRCUS: This special guest review by reader Jenny Wyatt

This was our 5’th visit to Las Vegas but our first visit to The Steak House which is situated in Circus Circus. This restaurant isn’t exactly what you’d expect inside a hotel which is aimed at children and circuses but I was pleasantly surprised!

When you enter you are faced with slabs of meat and lobster behind glass and it struck me as looking very English (I say very English as being from the UK I felt like I was walking into a Steak House back home). The bar come waiting area is very comfortable with settees to sink into while you wait for your table. This bar area is quite dark and has a very Victorian feel to it.

The restaurant is very well set out and is very reminiscent of Victorian England. They say on their menu that they “offer exquisite dining in a warm atmosphere of casual elegance” and this is quite true it does have a warm atmosphere and the decor is very tasteful.

There is a “cooking area” where you can actually see the steaks being cooked which is always a good thing as you then know that they have nothing to hide in their kitchens!

There is plenty of choice on the menu and for appetizers we tried the Shrimp Cocktail, the Mushrooms and the Crab Cocktail. The Shrimp Cocktail was nothing like we get in the UK. A crock shell was put in front of me filled with ice and jumbo prawns were placed on top together with lemon and a cocktail sauce (why they called it a shrimp cocktail when you were served giant prawns I don’t know!!). The mushrooms were very tasty and so was the crab. The appetizers started at a price of $4.95 up to $18.95.

When you order your main course you are also given the choice of Black Bean Soup or Salad. We all plumped for the salad of which there was mountains, but not wanting to spoil the main course I don’t think it was all eaten.

The steaks were delicious. This is one of the only steak houses I have got what I asked for — “how would you like yours cooked?” asked the waiter — “VERY well done” was my reply and yes, it was VERY well done — I’m one of these people who does NOT like ANY red showing in the meat and it came to the table in exactly the way I liked, delicious it was too.

If, like my friend, you’re not into steaks then the chicken breasts were very nice and the selection of Garlic Mashed Potato, Rice Pilaf or Baked Potato was a good choice. The steaks range from $17.95 up to $27.95, the chicken was $16.95 but they also offer Salmon and Halibut at $18.95. The Lobster and Crab legs were market price, so it’s worth asking before ordering. Lamb Chops are also on offer at $27.95.

There are deserts on offer but after an appetizer, salad and a main course there was not room left for a pudding!! They offer freshly baked goods — which if you have room looked delicious.

I will definitely be visiting the Steak House on my next visit to Las Vegas as it has a very relaxing atmosphere to all the hustle and bustle of the casinos and you can take your time over a delicious meal. Although the cost is slightly higher than your average restaurant (if you are on a budget) but I would recommend saving those pennies and have a nice quiet evening in a relaxed and very nice Steak House.

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

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for December / January:

* Luxor From $55.95 until 01/31/02
* Monte Carlo From $55.95 until 01/31/02
* Sahara From $35.95 until 01/31/02

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

SECURE ORDERING – We frequently get asked how safe giving your credit card over the internet is. When you buy on the internet, the information is scrambled in a way that is virtually impossible to unscramble except by the receiving computer. That computer then checks with a computer to confirm product availability and then gets credit card approval from another computer.

No humans involved, and your reservation is confirmed in seconds. Compare that to giving your credit card to a waiter at a restaurant (where they vanish for 5 minutes with it) or a live reservations clerk that obtains tons of info about you. Who is more likely to commit fraud with your card, 3 computers or a live human making a possibly low wage?

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

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

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

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

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

WINNERS! – The winners of the Calvin Brooks CD’s (smooth jazz artist appearing regularly in Harrah’s Range Steakhouse lounge) are: Diane McDonald – Bradenton, FL, Jimmy Salyers – Lexington, KY, and Ying Mah – Wichita, KS.


 


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Search by date at http://www.accessvegas.com/show-tickets.htm

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

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

* GOLF RESERVATIONS – Grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Search by date, see prices at http://www.accessvegas.com/golf-reservations.htm

* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now lock up reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.accessvegas.com/dinner-reservations.htm

* LAS VEGAS WEATHER – http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Las_Vegas.html

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
* HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm
* CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

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

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SPECIAL BULLETIN:

ALL VEGAS TV: Is our new, long awaited monthly online TV show. We got a bit behind schedule with the Sept. 11 fallout, but the official premiere will be the February episode, launching mid-January. It’s already in the can and we are thrilled with it. We have a great interview with Wolfgang Puck, we show you the inside of the Guggenheim Museum, and more.

Now that we are rolling, we are looking for the following people who would like to be involved. See if you fit the bill and contact info will be at the end. Aspiring talent is welcome — this is great exposure. We will direct you to our media preview (already online) so you can get a better understanding of what All Vegas TV is.

ACTOR AND ACTRESS: For parts in two commercial spots which will be used to promote booking travel at AccessVegas.Comááá Hundreds of thousands will view (over time) and we will post your contact info if desired.

SWIMWEAR / BIKINI MODELS: It is a little brisk in Las Vegas right now but fun and pool weather is right around the corner. Still and motion photography will be used as “bumpers” (short segments between major stories) promoting Las Vegas fun and sun. Hundreds of thousands will view (over time) and we will post your contact info if desired.

CAMERA OPERATOR: If you enjoy playing around with your video camera, have some real fun shooting Las Vegas with us. A couple times a month (and with advance notice) we need someone behind the camera while I’m in front covering the “party” side of Las Vegas. Clubs, New Year’s Eve, Spring Break and the like. If you aren’t energetic, or balk at the thought of getting a little beer spilled on you, this one isn’t for you.

If interested, drop me a line at (click) mailto:ted@accessvegas.comááá I’ll get back to you with detail after Christmas as well as the location of our online media preview so you can see the full scope of this project.


 


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

We’ve gotta talk about New Year’s Eve! I especially want to talk to those of you on the West coast who are within driving distance. You have a golden opportunity this year that I’ve never seen before, and we probably won’t see again. Because a fair number of people from the East coast are too concerned about long-haul flights to come out, rooms are not only still available for New Year’s Eve, but cheaper than in years past.

Plus, those of you that drive in really have the advantage because you can stay off The Strip. There are thousands of rooms (some in casinos, some not) within a few blocks of The Strip as well the “local’s” casinos. What’s it going to be this year, another year of watching Dick Clark and people in New York City freeze to death on tape delay (it’s 9 PM here when midnight strikes there) or being in the middle of this party:

At midnight on December 31, the city will celebrate with a spectacular fireworks show billed as “America’s Party: Las Vegas New Year 2002.” A five-mile stretch of sky above the Las Vegas Strip will be transformed into the canvas for a feat of pyrotechnic mastery. Fireworks with names like Comets, Plumes and Oscillating Flares will illuminate the sky above the Las Vegas Strip, for seven minutes and 11 seconds.

Don’t take my word for it. Our photos from last year are at http://www.las-vegas-new-years-eve.com and we have booking info there as well. One note: most hotels are requiring that you stay at least Dec. 28 – Jan. 1 (4 nights or more) so remember to enter those dates for maximum availability. If last year was any indication, you don’t want to miss this one!

New casinos are opening — the party doesn’t stop in Las Vegas! The Palms recently opened, and must be seen to be believed. Upscale with the feel suited to South Florida, this new resort is kitty-corner from The Rio just off The Strip. Of particular note is the Ghostbar lounge, one of the most amazing views of The Strip in town. Green Valley Ranch opens in a matter of hours (as I write this), so we’ll size it up in the future. We have links to info on both hotels at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm

Speaking of, we were at the grand reopening of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago in The Forum Shops (Caesars Palace) a couple of weeks ago. The food is superb, the atmosphere fantastic, and Puck and his staff (as always) the gracious hosts.

I’d tell you more about it, but instead we are going to show it to you in the premiere episode of All Vegas TV in January. Including an interview with Mr. Puck conducted by our very own Elizabeth Rizzo. We are still looking for great additional people who want to get involved with All Vegas TV.

Puck is offering a free bottle of wine at his Las Vegas restaurants Spago (702-369-6300), Lupo (702-740-5522), Postrio (702-796-1110), and Chinois (702-737-9700) with every meal in December. Simply inform the hostess when making reservations or upon arrival.

Cheval (mentioned last issue, archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-11-07.htm ) is drawing great reviews all around. If you like Cirque du Soleil style entertainment, enjoy horses, or appreciate a good show this is one to see before the run ends!

Attendance at Comdex was reported to be way off — as little as 1/2 of the usual 250,000 people due to terrorism fears and the bottom falling out on all those crazy Dot Com companies. (Funny, here in the internet travel business, we did business the old fashioned way. We sold a good, real product at a great price. We’re still here and growing). Anyway, I digress!

I have mixed thoughts on this. Yes, it is good to expose Las Vegas to as many people as possible with conventions. But hotels have to charge top dollar for hotels during Comdex to make up for the fact that computer industry people are least likely to gamble. This ties up rooms, and drives up rates during a November week we usually have flawless weather (highs around 75-80) and depriving the regular visitors of the ability to get a room that week.

Sheena Easton is returning to the Las Vegas Hilton, where she had a great run this summer. My review and ticket information are at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/sheena-easton-las-vegas-hilton.htm

Tours have resumed at Hoover Dam, but unfortunately the $25, one hour “hard hat” tour was a casualty of the new security precautions. Having the pleasure of taking the hard hat tour last year, I can understand why. They took you into the bowels of the dam and quite a bit of the operation. Hoover Dam is still a marvel that must be seen in real life. Visitors are allowed (and tours conducted) during daylight hours. Go earlier in the day to avoid crowds.

Nevada’s jobless rate was the highest in the nation last month. Quit moving here (unless you are retired or independently wealthy) until things get better. As you can imagine, longtime residents with a work history here are going to be hired back before someone new and Las Vegas is no fun when you are struggling with cash.

The Bootlegger Restaurant continues to be a local secret, but obviously not for long. Nevada Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt and her husband “Blackie” run the family owned Italian eatery and are joined by “Sonny” King every Friday and Saturday evening at 10 PM for a true, free-form, old style Las Vegas lounge show. Lorraine and Sonny sing while Blackie plays the piano. Although not of that era (I’m 36), it is a fun, relaxing time to enjoy quality entertainment that brings Las Vegas’ past to the present.

Word is getting around. Last Friday, John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin on Cheers) was enjoying the show. A few weeks ago, Hugh Hefner and his seven girlfriends (Mandi, Brandi, Candi, Sandi … or something like that) stopped by for dinner. The Bootlegger is easy to find. Simply drive south on the Strip past Vacation Village and go a couple more miles The Bootlegger sits just south of the Belz Factory Outlet Mall on your left. Lorraine, Blackie, and Sonny start the show around 10 PM and perform 3-4 hours.

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FEEDBACK:

We encourage you to post comments about specific Las Vegas hotels, shows, attractions, and general trip reports to our Comment Las Vegas message board at http://boards.accessvegas.com

For comments or questions regarding topics in the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com We do certainly read them all. They help shape our content and we do personally answer specific Las Vegas related questions!


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


Have a request for a review? Confused when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where the “articles” are tied in with paid ads, our sites give you the honest scoop.

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
December 18, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 13, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 50 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake or wish off our list, simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Condos and Vacation Rentals: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Reservation Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

THIS WEEK’S CITY ON SALE: Boston — rates starting at $99.95! Choose from Midtown Hotel, Swissotel, Days Hotel, Fairmont Copley Plaza, Radisson Cambridge and more. For details, click http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/hotdeals?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

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

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

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THIS ISSUE: The Rat Pack Is Back


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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

JACKPOT – Major William Tracy had been in Las Vegas for less than a
day when he struck it rich early Wednesday morning, winning $3 million
on a Wheel of Fortune(R) dollars machine at the Flamingo Las Vegas.
“I just sat there staring at the payline, trying to figure out what
was happening when a security guard walked up to tell me that I had
just won $3 million. I’m still in shock,” he said. Tracy, 32, and
his wife, Alicia, are in Las Vegas to attend graduation ceremonies at
the USAF Weapons School at Nellis AFB. Tracy, who flies an F-15C
fighter, is currently stationed in Japan. The Tracys aren’t sure what
they’ll do with their winnings. “Make some investments, help our
families. It’s a lot to figure out. But there is one thing we are
sure of — we don’t want things to change … at least, not too
much,” Tracy said.

MONORAIL – Right now, early construction on the first phase of the Las Vegas monorail is underway. Running from the MGM to the Desert Inn, the line is eventually slated to run downtown. Proposed extensions run both to the airport and along the casinos on the West side of The Strip. Full story with map at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-29-Tue-2001/news/16179719.html

MARINERS -áááá The Seattle baseball team continues to terrorize their opponents, as well as the Vegas sportsbooks. Count the Mirage as one of many Nevada casinos that would welcome some avalanche control. It listed the Mariners at 45-to-1 odds to win the World Series before the season started, a number the team has pared to 7-2, second only to the Yankees’ 5-2. Full story (which includes a little inside peak at how baseball lines are set) at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

ENERGY CRUNCH – is continuing to be felt by the hotels here. While Nevada has secured enough energy for the summer, the prices are on the rise. Harrah’s Entertainment, Station Casinos and the Riviera Hotel and Casino have tacked a $3-a-night surcharge on hotel rooms at their Nevada casinos. Whether to charge customers more is especially a dilemma for the more expensive casinos on the Strip, where image is everything and customers could perceive such a move as tacky. Bellagio, for example, now has a system that adjusts air conditioning and turns off lights when offices aren’t used. Full story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm

EPICUREAN AFFAIR – The 11th annual Epicurean Affair, featuring signature dishes from local restaurants, wine, a silent auction and live entertainment, is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. June 20 at The Mirage, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South. More than 50 restaurants plan to participate in the event, dubbed “The Rhythm of Flavor” and carrying a Latin American theme. Details at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-30-Wed-2001/living/16149617.html

NO KIDDING – In light of the recent “Kids In Vegas” debate, I was informed about No Kidding. This is a group of people who are child-free by choice. They are adamant that they don’t hate children nor are trying to pass anti-child laws. It is just a social group for people who have no kids and enjoy social events with others in the same position. The national page is at http://mypage.direct.ca/j/jerry_s/ and the Las Vegas chapter can be contacted at (click) mailto:lasvegas@nokidding.net

VEGAS FOR KIDS – If you are bringing your kids to Las Vegas, “101 Things for Kids in Las Vegas” by Carol Stout is a must have. Instead of dragging them through the hot sun or locking them in the room while you gamble, make the trip fun for them. This excellent book is available online from Amazon.Com at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1886161208/invegascom

LIFE OF A DEALER – CNN profiles people in various careers, asking them questions about the job and their life. They just profiled a Vegas blackjack dealer at http://www.cnn.com/2001/CAREER/dayonthejob/06/12/casino/index.html

THE ECONOMY – For all the reasons Californians come here, there’s a growing list of reasons why, this summer, they may not. Higher gas prices. Hesitancy to leave homes untended during rolling blackouts. A softening economy. The lure of Vegas-style Indian casinos closer to home. But Las Vegas can spin an economic threat like a roulette wheel, and executives here say they expect this summer to be as strong as last year’s — especially as travelers reexamine their more exotic vacation plans. Full story at http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/stories/20010603/t000046305.html

STEVE WYNN HAS BURPED – It’s an inside joke — I’ve told friends that some people are so into Vegas that they would like an update every time Steve Wynn burps. (Wynn is former Mirage Resorts founder / CEO and that man who bought the Desert Inn to put a new resort there.) The most recent courtesy of R-J columnist Norm! is a massive makeover of the famed golf course, a large lake with lakefront condos, and a Cirque de Soleil-type show. Read full details at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-03-Sun-2001/news/16221974.html

WIRELESS CHECK-IN – The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas plans to launch a pilot program this summer that’s aimed at using wireless devices to ensure that rooms are ready for arriving guests. Guests will meet hotel clerks at any of several entrances, including the car drop-off area, and be able to show a credit card to check reservations via a wireless LAN connection to a server in real time. Once the reservation has been confirmed, the clerk will be able to encode a room-key card for the guest. Full story at http://www.thestandard.com/article/0,1902,26682,00.html

KIDS QUEST – The new Palms Hotel Casino (under construction near The Rio) is going to have a child care center. These centers are already popular at some “local’s” casinos around town. Story at http://twincities.bcentral.com/twincities/stories/2001/05/07/daily25.html

SOUTH STRIP – Recently, a continuing series on urban hikes in Las Vegas focuses on the Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, and Four Seasons hotels. Included are good synopses of the attractions at each and worth printing out before you next trip. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-13-Sun-2001/living/16040904.html

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL ). Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL
2. Book a room online at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!




CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

35TH ANNUAL VICTOR AWARDS – The Las Vegas Hilton will host the 35th Annual Victor Awards June 23, honoring the world’s greatest athletes and coaches, with event proceeds going to City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute. The event will be broadcast live on Fox Sports Net from the Hilton Theater starting at 5:00 p.m. PST/8:00 p.m. EST. Tickets are available through the City of Hope for $50 and black tie is required. To purchase tickets, call City of Hope at 800-544-3541, extension 26206.

Each year, the Academy of Victor Sports Awards recognizes star athletes from baseball, basketball, football, track and field, boxing, tennis and more. This year’s nominees include Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Marion Jones, Venus Williams, Eddie George, Mario Lemieux, Cynthia Cooper and Tiger Woods.

NUDE CABARET – MGM is launching “La Femme” in partnership with the infamous Crazy Horse of Paris, France on June 14. The name was changed for Vegas to avoid any legal trouble with the local strip club of the same name. While promising to show a lot of skin in a theatrical fashion, Clark County liquor laws prohibit total nudity anywhere booze is served so the producers of the new show are being slightly creative with their “all nude” presentation. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-25-Fri-2001/news/16178266.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Earl Turner (Rio) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-01-Fri-2001/weekly/16204135.html
* Liberace Museum – http://www.viewnews.com/2001/VIEW-Jun-06-Wed-2001/East/16215569.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1
* GOLF RESERVATIONS – BookVegas let’s you grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Click to http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5
* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS AND HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
* CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/concerts.htm

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Onda (Mirage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-06-Wed-2001/living/16208847.html
* Seasons (Bally’s) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-30-Wed-2001/living/16184064.html

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

Thursday – 91 ░F / 70 ░F Sunny
Friday – 98 ░F / 76 ░F Sunny
Saturday – 102 ░F / 80 ░F Sunny
Sunday – 103 ░F / 79 ░F Partly Cloudy
Monday – 103 ░F / 79 ░F Partly Cloudy
Tuesday – 103 ░F / 80 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORIES: The Rat Pack Is Back

Sometimes I really look forward to reviewing the shows, and other times it’s just another day at the office. Granted, I’m not complaining — there are worse offices than a Las Vegas showroom and since 90% of my time is spent in front of the computer, it is always pleasant to get out in the “real world.”

The Rat Pack Is Back is a show I was truly looking forward to seeing. Up until recently, the show had been on a month-to-month engagement at the Sahara which didn’t make it a good review candidate. I don’t want to tell you about something that might be closed by the time you get to town! However, with a new one-year contract (and possible extensions), this show is here to stay.

I was looking forward to it because although not yet born in the heyday of the Rat Pack, I’ve always been curious about the vibe they brought to Las Vegas. I have a poster of them in my office. I’ve seen all the specials on the cable TV channels chronicling their time here. But would this show be a reasonably true recreation that brings back that vibe, or would I be seeing some second rate impersonators limping their way through a show as some of the budget Elvis’ seem to do?

Thankfully, it was the former. While not the Copa Room (where the originals played often at The Sands), the Congo room at the Sahara was festively decorated and very comfortable. “Joey” (played by comedian Mark Cohen — legalities prevent the performers from using the full names of the people they impersonate in the show) came out and told us that it was a very special night: December 12, 1961 … which just happened to be “Frank’s” birthday. He warmed the crowd up with some truly funny comedy.

He then introduced “Frank,” played by famed Sinatra impressionist Steve Lippia who sung a collection of hits from the era including “Luck Be A Lady” while he worked the stage with a confident manner. His vocal comparison to Sinatra’s is uncanny, and the 20 piece orchestra backing all of the performers added to the realism of the period.

Rick Michel came out as “Dean,” in character with a huge martini glass. He was perhaps was the most dead-on in the looks department (although all had good resemblance to their original characters) and had an amazingly strong voice to boot. He ran through Dean Martin favorites such as Everybody Loves Somebody Sometimes and Find Yourself Somebody To Love.

Doug Starks is “Sammy,” and I mean he IS Sammy. An actual friend of the late entertainer he pays tribute to, he had the style, vocal quality, moves, and inflections down pat. Sailing through songs like That Old Black Magic and What Kind of Fool Am I, he took liberty to sing Mr. Bojangles, noting that it wouldn’t be released until 1968 … but “You are here, I am here, so let’s do it”!

From there, the show was filled with the kind of fun and frolic that these performers made legendary. They joked, sang duets, made little jabs at each other, and mixed drinks on stage. Celebrities in the audience were introduced (this night they included Robin Leach and Nevada Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt). Although the original performers had a great camaraderie, even more credit to this group for being able to naturally recreate that night after night.

If you are old enough to remember and appreciate The Rat Pack, or were born a little after their Vegas heyday but are curious about what it must have been like and love that “old Vegas” vibe, this is a show well worth seeing.

The Rat Pack Is Back plays The Sahara hotel. Check times, costs, and availability at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1

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EDITORS NOTE:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Joyce Mitchell wrote:

> Hi, Ted!
> Thank you for your great newsletter. I really enjoy it. We
> returned from a four night visit to Vegas and are looking forward to
> the next visit — we go at least once or twice a year. Vacations in
> Vegas are real vacations — you can rest, relax, or be as frantic as
> you might be inclined, and all your old worries and troubles are far
> away in a different world. If you tire of noisy casinos, you can
> visit desert, canyons, or mountains. I recommend it! (People
> watching is high on the list of diversions!)
> I would like to comment on the new slots. People with a limited amount
> of cash to blow — like me and my husband — enjoy the
> sensation of putting in coins. We don’t even use the option of
> spinning on credit; we cash out the coins first. Besides, it seems to
> make your money last longer(!). While I understand the casinos’
> appreciation of paper slots, from my point of view — yuck! Washing
> your hands often makes a lot of sense anyway when you are messing
> around with machines that lots of people handle. And on a slightly
> different note — we don’t care for the “computer games” either. Give
> us an old fashioned one-game slot any day. (I guess we must be “old
> fashioned” people; FYI, we are both over 65.)
> We like to stay downtown, especially at the Golden Nugget.
> It is convenient and you get more casinos for the same amount of steps.
> Plus, the Strip is just a few minutes away.
> Keep up the good work, and thank you again.

We did a poll on this about a year ago, but with so many new readers, I’ll do another one. How do you feel about coinless slots? Vote today at http://www.accessvegas.com á!

Gloria Davis wrote:

> Unfortunately I allowed myself to be persuaded to stay at the Riviera
> Hotel while attending a conference in Las Vegas. I will never do that
> again. First there were the long lines at registration. After
> standing there for 45 minutes, I was given a room whose carpet was so
> soiled, I promptly returned to the desk for a reassignment. Guess
> what, another 40 minute wait. The people at the desk were very
> pleasant about the room reassignment and I was given a smoking room,
> had requested nonsmoking, which I did not realize was smoking until I
> reached the room. You guessed right again, I returned to the desk and
> waited in line 45 minutes again. By the time I reached the desk, I
> was not very composed. I know I felt like crying and evidently that
> was noticed. The manager assigned the next room. It was barely
> adequate.
>
> My next fiasco was following through with a recommendation to try the
> buffet at the Stardust. I was very disappointed in the food. It was
> attractively displayed, but lacked flavor.
>
> I like Las Vegas and will return but guess where I will not be staying
> or eating. You guessed it.

Unfortunately, with the volume of people Las Vegas hotels handle, sometimes one has a bad experience. If you don’t get satisfaction at the time, be sure to write the general manager of the hotel when you return home. If you are polite but firm and give solid detail, they will often send you freebies ranging from food to free nights on your next visit.

A couple of years ago, I gave the Stardust daily brunch buffet a nice review here, but they have since discontinued the daily buffet format and the quality has waned. Although are archives at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com and our new show reviews archive at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com can be a big help, note the date and remember that sometimes things change. Our weekly reviews here are always fresh!

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

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




ONLINE POLL – “How do you feel about coinless slots?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

Results from last poll: “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?”

No way, no how … it’s a playground for adults. 57%
Only if the kids are teenagers and can enjoy the chaos and 24/7 excitement. 19%
If they are old enough to remember it, bring them. 7%
Las Vegas is a fine place for any family vacation regardless of child age. 15%

FREE CONTEST: Sign up for Weatherbug and get a free trip to Vegas: http://ww2.weatherbug.com/aff/default.asp?zcode=Z3390&DoCheck=True

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
June 13, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 25, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 50 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake or wish off our list, simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click): mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Condos and Vacation Rentals: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Reservation Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

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

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

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This Issue: Second City

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


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


EDITORS NOTE: The weather has been stunning — my little free time has been spent around the pool. With our low humidity, 85-90 is perfect here. Also, we are going nuts adding new services for you! We have the new hotel hotline 1-800-666-5268 for those who still fear booking online or feel better talking to someone, we’ve added hotels in Hawaii with the same guaranteed low rates (see http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas ), and we now have condos and vacation rentals at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

$5.1 MILLION JACKPOT – A Cypress, Calif. man returned to his lucky Wheel of Fortune(R) dollar machine at Paris Las Vegas Friday evening and walked away $5.1 million richer. Jim Fowler said that on a previous trip he had won $1,750 on the same slot machine and had since made it a point to play it when in Las Vegas. Full story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

CHAOS – is the name of the new ride at Adventuredome (Circus Circus). Similar to the popular thrill park ride The Zipper, this ride rocks, rolls, and rotates in a unique way each time, assuring riders that no two rides are the same. Story and photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-30-Fri-2001/weekly/15707266.html

BASKETBALL TOURNAMENTS – are headed to Vegas this fall. A Thanksgiving weekend event will have Illinois, Iowa State, Georgia Tech, Saint Louis, Hartford, Pennsylvania, Southern Illinois and Eastern Illinois and the pre-Christmas tournament fields Cincinnati, Purdue, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, Richmond, Southwest Missouri State and Illinois-Chicago, with an eighth team to be announced. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-25-Wed-2001/sports/15949929.html

CSI – CBS’ highest ranked new show will be in town shooting for the next couple of weeks. Although set in Las Vegas, the majority of the shooting is done in LA. This Sunday night, Speed — The Ride at The Sahara will be shut down from 5 PM to midnight for shooting with cast and crew. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-23-Mon-2001/living/15922396.html

MAKE THE CALL – A friend brought to my attention that some of you may prefer talking to a reservations agent instead of booking online. We now have a Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Hotline you can call for questions or to place a hotel reservation at 1-800-666-5268

VEGAS SAFETY TIPS – Howard Schwartz, marketing director for Gambler’s Book Club in Las Vegas, has written what I consider a “must read” for those coming to visit our city. Go to http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/042501.html, print it out, and read it on the plane.

SURVIVOR – Oddsmakers have installed Texas cowboy Colby Donaldson as the favorite to win the $1 million grand prize on the CBS reality-based series “Survivor.” Donaldson is the 3-2 favorite at the Stardust hotel-casino and the 2-1 favorite at the Bally’s and Paris hotel-casinos. The odds are only hypothetical because state law prohibits wagers on events in which the outcome already is known. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/010423/08/ent-colby-donaldson

IF BETTING ON COLLEGE SPORTS IS BANNED – “(Illegal) bookmakers are going to prevail bigger than ever,” ESPN’s Dick Vitale warned. “That will happen behind the scenes like you can’t believe, big time. I sing the praises of those trying to eliminate the problem, but does this create a nightmare of shady guys getting more involved?” Full story at http://www.usatoday.com/usatonline/20010425/3263021s.htm

EASTER IN VEGAS – Villanova student Joelle Jackson wrote a fun and humorous story on what it was like as a Catholic to spend Easter week here in “Sin City.” This funny column is at http://news.excite.com/news/uw/010420/university-216

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm ). Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!


Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Catch A Rising Star (Excalibur) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-13-Fri-2001/weekly/15842623.html

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1

SHOWS AND HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

GOLF RESERVATIONS – http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Cili (Bali Hai Golf Club) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-11-Wed-2001/living/15812253.html

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

Friday – 90 ░F ░F / 64 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 90 ░F ░F / 61 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 88 ░F ░F / 62 ░F Mostly Sunny
Monday – 92 ░F ░F / 64 ░F Mostly Sunny
Tuesday – 94 ░F ░F / 63 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORY: Second City

Celebrating it’s 40’th year, the famed Second City improvisational comedy troupe has expanded to Las Vegas at the Flamingo Hotel. Second City presents comedy revues filled with satire of sex, politics, and religion as well as the improvisational skits.

While never going out of style, improv comedy has seemed to make quite a comeback lately with Drew Carey’s ABC show and the reemergence of Second City’s own SCTV following Conan O’ Brian weeknights late night on NBC. I had only seen improv on TV and it wasn’t really my thing. While attending the show with an open mind, I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy it, and I was pleasantly surprised.

The night started with audience interaction. The troupe asked a gentleman in the crowd his name and what he did for a living then went on do to an improv song totally based on the information they had just learned. This similar segment was done twice during the show and to some pretty funny results.

There were typical “Vegas” bits that seem to be mandatory for any comic act in Las Vegas. “Frank and Bob’s Motel and Casino” was a pretty amusing bit that presented what it would be like if two used car salesmen made their own commercial for a second rate casino. As good humor should do, their jokes about the casino buffet and other “amenities” rang very true to someone who has played and dined at some of the more run down casinos on Boulder Highway and in other parts of town although some of it may have been lost on tourists.

“Leopold and Ray” took a nice dig at the legendary magicians with the tigers that play across the street from the Flamingo. In keeping with the theme of the property, the “magicians” made flamingos vanish all while noting that they were “definitely not gay” and using purposely bad misdirection during the illusions. This piece was one of the many highlights.

“Win, Lose, or Draw” took pot shots at couples, relationships, marriage, and camaraderie between the sexes. Other bits included “Las Vegas Driver Education” where the instructor rates the driver on hell well he can do things like eating, running yellow lights, and finding lost items on the car floor during driving. While all the props are minimal, it is refreshing in Las Vegas to see talented performers shine without the elaborate production used to help prop up many run-of-the-mill shows.

The Las Vegas cast consists of nine total members, rotating five for each show so even with the set bits, you are never going to see exactly the same show twice. They put on a solid 70 minutes and while improv is always at the mercy of the unique factors of audience and performer mood, very few of the bits fell flat. With the reasonable admission price, this is a great “What the hell, let’s check it out” show and you can go home telling friends you have seen the famous Second City troupe.

Second City Ticket Info




LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jack Hart wrote:

> My lasting impression of Las Vegas will be the taxi drivers. They are the
> worst in the country. I always thought New York City was the worst until now.
> I got stuck in a cross walk, pushing my 10 month old son, with the light
> changing. They cam speeding at me with horns blowing and yelling profanities.
> I have always received very courteous gestures form motorists out west. I was
> shocked and outraged at this. It happened a couple of times so I know that
> this was not an isolated incident. The city of Las Vegas should prohibit this
> type of behavior by the taxi drivers. They should be fined for blowing horns
> and displaying such an aggressive behavior. Just because they had a green
> light does not justify threatening me with running me and my baby down.

I agree that cursing at you isn’t proper, and I’m not a big fan of our taxi drivers. They don’t always take the shortest route, and they often refuse to take calls to pick up people in the suburbs because shuttling tourists around the Strip is more profitable even though they are legally required to service the entire valley.

However, I’m personally shocked I myself haven’t yet hit a tourist with my car on The Strip, and I’m not driving a cab 12 hours a day. Tourists get relaxed and forget to cross in the crosswalks, with the walk sign, etc., when the cars (taxi’s or otherwise) DO have the right-of-way. I see cabs lay on the horn all the time because people are crossing against the signal. They tend to do this well before they reach the crosswalk and the other alternative is jamming on their brakes in the middle of busy traffic and creating wreck after wreck.

The Strip isn’t Disneyland, but a very busy road. I encourage everyone to play it safe and not cross against the light (or better yet, use the pedestrian bridges when possible). If the “don’t walk” sign has even started to flash, the average person probably won’t make it across, especially on The Strip where you are crossing 7-8 lane widths. Trust me: that casino across the street is still going to be open when you get there, and we want you to stay happy and healthy for many return visits to our city!

Tom Beaven of Garden City, Michigan wrote:

> A few years ago, we were in Vegas over the 4’th of July. We stayed at
> Binion’s Horseshoe downtown. This was before they built the canopy for the
> light show. There was a brief, but major display across the street at the
> Golden Nugget. We could see it from our room.
> But what we really enjoyed was spending some time in the evening on the
> roof (by the Shoe’s pool) and watching fireworks displays pop up here and
> there all over the valley.
> I’m sure the same could be seen from any high building downtown or on the
> strip.

Mary from Texas wrote:

>Will be visiting Las Vegas again in May. Want a great meal
>with a great view of Las Vegas. What do you suggest —
>Top of the Tower, Horseshoe Steak House?

You can’t go wrong with either of those or Voodoo at Rio. Binion’s is a little more “down home” although all of them will set you back a few bucks.

Top of the Stratosphere is elegant with a view not for those squirmy of heights, Voodoo is very nice but a little more modern / funky, and Binion’s is a straight-ahead steakhouse. All three respectively have great views of The Strip. Binion’s menu is traditional while the other two have more modern culinary variety. The only one we have published a review of so far is Binion’s at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-06-14.htm Our poll this week at http://www.accessvegas.com asks “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?”

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




ONLINE POLL – “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

Results from last poll: “Are you rethinking your Las Vegas vacation plans in light of the economy?”

Vegas is Vegas — I’ll cut back somewhere else in life if I have to. 47%
I’m going to visit just as often, but cutting back (cheaper room, less entertainment or gambling). 23%
I’ll be visiting less often. 19%
I’m actually skipping a planned trip. 9%

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
April 25, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

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