Tag Archives: June 2013

Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 26, 2013

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Summer Bucket List at MGM Resorts – Go Big Or Go BIGGER! – Summer is here and guests looking to add more adventure and excitement to their Vegas vacation can check these MGM ResortsÆ favorites off their bucket lists.

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Las Vegas In July

Rhumbar Inside The Mirage Celebrates Fourth Of July With Weekend Party On The Patio Specials – Rhumbar at The Mirage Hotel & Casino will celebrate Independence Day with a weekend party filled with cocktails, cigars, hookahs and a DJ spinning the hottest tracks Thursday, July 4 through Sunday, July 7.

Party In Las Vegas

Savor Summer With Refreshing New Cocktails At Hyde Bellagio – Just in time for summer, Hyde Bellagio introduces tasty new libations perfect for sipping on the terrace overlooking Las VegasÆ most-celebrated landmark, the Fountains of Bellagio.

Hyde invites guests to enjoy these summery concoctions while snacking on delectable small plates such as Caprese Crostini, Ahi Tuna Tartar ôConesö and Kobe Sliders from neighboring Circo beginning every evening at 5 p.m.

Rockhouse Shows Some Skin With Open Bar Specials On National Bikini Day – Swimsuit enthusiasts will show off their tan lines during National Bikini Day at Rockhouse, located at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Hotel & Casino, on Friday, July 5.

Patrons who purchase a Rockhouse bikini on National Bikini Day will receive complimentary all day open bar access. Bikini-clad partygoers who start the party early will enjoy the ultra-dive barÆs $10 ôBottomless Bikini Bar,ö open bar available every day from 6 until 10 p.m.

Park On Fremont Launches Happy Hour Specials – Afternoons in Downtown Las Vegas will get a whole lot happier as Park on Fremont introduces affordable happy hour selections Monday through Friday from 3 û 7 p.m.

The menu features unique fare perfect for an after work meal or snacks to kick-start a night out in Fremont East.

Las Vegas Attractions

Dining In Las Vegas

The Plated Canvas: Culinary Arts Month Hits Vegas – Celebrated as Culinary Arts Month, July is an appropriate time to recognize the artistry and craftsmanship of eye-catching dishes. As with any art form, it takes dedication to make sure each element complements one another to create a true masterpiece. The culinary artists at Sage, Aureole, and LÆAtelier de JoÙl Robuchon are dedicated to satisfying the palate in a creative fashion û sure to leave a lasting (and tasty) impression.

Park On Fremont Introduces “Taco Tuesday” Specials And Coronitas – Tuesdays in Downtown Las Vegas will get beefed up at Park on Fremont with savory tacos and drink specials during ôTaco Tuesdayö every week from 3 û 7 p.m. Whether unwinding after a day at the office or fueling up for a night out on Fremont Street, guests can enjoy $2 carne asada tacos and $1 Coronitas in Park on FremontÆs rustic dining area and blossoming outdoor patio.

Michael Mina’s PUB 1842 At MGM Grand Puts A Whimsical Spin On Classic American Pub Fare – Michael MinaÆs PUB 1842 at MGM Grand introduces a casual tavern-style eatery that playfully blends unexpected flavors and textures into classic American pub favorites. The restaurant boasts an extensive selection of beers and cocktails for guests to enjoy while they play favorites such as darts and ping pang pong in the energetic bar area. A lively soundtrack complements the restaurant atmosphere, which encourages socializing and spirited fun. The restaurant is open daily for lunch, dinner and late night.

Las Vegas Hotels

Gambling And Gaming

Shopping In Las Vegas

The World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop And NGC Present A Signature Series Medallion In Commemoration Of “The Old Man” – Home of The History Channel’s Pawn Stars, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, has joined forces with Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) to present a signature series medallion to commemorate Mr. HarrisonÆs 71st birthday. ôThe Old ManÆs 71st Birthday Medallionö has been encapsulated in a NGC EdgeView Holder with a custom label that has been personally autographed by ôThe Old Manö in gold Sharpie.

HersheyÆs Chocolate World Retail Experience Inside New York-New York To Be Unwrapped On The Las Vegas Strip – The Las Vegas Strip will get a whole lot sweeter when Hershey’s Chocolate World retail experience opens at New York-New York Hotel & Casino this winter.

The flagship store will occupy two floors, boast an eye-catching 70-foot faþade and provide guests with an experiential concept that will immerse them in the candy brands they love: HersheyÆs, HersheyÆs Kisses, ReeseÆs, Ice Breakers, Jolly Ranchers, Twizzlers and more.

More Las Vegas News

Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

Celebrate Your Senses Helicopter TourCelebrate Your Senses Helicopter Tour û Embark upon a helicopter tour in Las Vegas for the flight of your life. This tour goes for the glamour shots û we know which areas of Las Vegas will take your breath away. Each Vegas Night helicopter tour is designed to ôwowö our guests. Prior to your departure from our Las Vegas terminal, you will be served champagne to toast your night flight as you experience breathtaking sights from inside an ECO-Star helicopter, nicknamed the “limousine of the sky”.

Click To Book Celebrate Your Senses Helicopter Tour Now!

Top Tickets For All United States Events

Did you know that we not only sell premium concert and event tickets for Las Vegas, but also for the entire United States as well? If you can’t make it to Vegas, treat yourself to some great seats for something near you:

Most Popular Concert Tickets
US Open Tennis Tickets Beyonce Tickets
NFL Tickets Bruno Mars Tickets
– Dallas Cowboys Tickets Dave Matthews Band Tickets
– New Orleans Saints Tickets Eagles Tickets
– San Francisco 49ers Tickets Honda Civic Tour Tickets
– Green Bay Packers Tickets Justin Bieber Tickets
– Pittsburgh Steelers Tickets Justin Timberlake Tickets
– Carolina Panthers Tickets Kenny Chesney Tickets
– Seattle Seahawks Tickets Luke Bryan Tickets
NHL Tickets One Direction Tickets
– Chicago Blackhawks Tickets Paul McCartney Tickets
– Boston Bruins Tickets Rascal Flatts Tickets
Baseball Tickets Rolling Stones Tickets
– New York Yankees Tickets Taylor Swift Tickets
– Los Angeles Angels Tickets Zac Brown Band Tickets

Las Vegas Show Reviews

Seth Grabel by Terri D’Richards

Seth Grabel – Magic With A Serious Fun Factor – Is he an acrobat? Is he an illusionist? Is he a dancer? Take your pick! Seth Grabel shows us all of the above and more in his Las Vegas show. Settled in at the intimate (with super comfy seats!) Wolf Theatre at The Clarion, Grabel shows off feats of amazement and grace presented with charismatic personality and style.

The multi-faceted performer gained notoriety as a finalist on season six of ôAmericaÆs Got Talentö where he wowed audiences and judges alike with impossible escapes, grand scale illusions and acrobatic flash. Working within the confines of his current venue, Grabel makes the most of more up-close magic, such as sleight of hand and levitation. He even pulls off some nifty metamorphosis (when one person gets substituted out for another in a seemingly enclosed trunk), and other illusions.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – We don’t keep records, but this may be one of the longer, most packed issues we’ve ever done. A month ago, we quietly passed our 14’th anniversary, and if you go back into the archives and look at our Access Vegas Insider Vibe û May 20, 1999 issue, you can see that we’ve come a long way! I’m not one for making huge events out of milestones, but next year for our 15’th, we’ll do something special and hopefully be able to involve you in it as well.

Triple Digits – Temps over 100F are the norm this time of year, but going into this weekend, we’ll be flirting with record highs. I mean ALL-TIME record highs, not just for a day or month. Saturday is predicted to be 117 with Sunday 116. The all-time record is 118.

Yes… you’ve probably heard people say that they’ve been in Las Vegas when it was in the 120’s, and if you are outside walking in it, you probably feel like it is the 120’s. This is a good time to revisit our last issue where I discussed staying hydrated.

Silver Sevens (Formerly Terrible’s) $7.77 July Specials – To kick off the Silver Sevens celebration, guests can devour a $7.77 steak and lobster dinner inside The Sterling Spoon CafÚ every day in July from 2 to 10 p.m. In addition, CafÚ guests can enjoy seven entrÚes under $7 offered 24 hours a day throughout July, including signature items: steak salad, chicken lettuce wraps, Mandarin chicken salad, pulled pork sandwich and eggplant parmesan. Silver Sevens is one two-minute cab ride east of The Bellagio on Flamingo.

July 4 Fireworks – Caesars Palace will once again be sparking a fireworks display at 9 PM (weather/winds permitting as we are in the desert). In previous years, the southbound lanes of The Strip have been temporarily closed leading up to the display to accommodate everyone who wants to enjoy it. We expect the same this year. For you locals, Red Rock and Green Valley Ranch casinos will have fireworks. Me? I can see the Caesars show plain and clear from the end of my block, so I’ll be enjoying that one!

MGM Officially Set To Build Arena – Although the project was previously announced, the plans to build a 20,000 seat arena behind New York-New York. Construction starts next year and runs through 2016. MGM (the company) already owns the Mandalay Bay Events Center and MGM Grand Gardens, both a stones throw away. This larger venue is expected to help provide the space to bring even more big-name events to Las Vegas.

This doesn’t seem to be an effort to bring a major league team to town. Some see it as a pre-emptive strike against Caesars Entertainment’s planned, but unfunded, arena behind the Linq project. My guess is that the Caesars arena simply won’t happen, especially in light of the push to bring an even bigger major events arena to the UNLV campus just a few minutes east of The Strip.

Membership Questions – We’re received quite a few questions about our pending move to a paid subscriber model in order to both 1. Keep the newsletter at the quality (and quantity) of information and 2. Provide specific, extra helpful information to members that takes time and research (which costs money). We’ll answer those next week via a short audio I’m going to record, but essentially we’re going to ask that readers basically buy us a relatively cheap cup of coffee just once per month (we’re not even asking for Starbucks). In return, we’ll use those funds to bring some great new information and benefits plus be able to maintain what we’re doing.

Hope you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

First of all I have to tell you how I look forward to each copy of Access Vegas. You do a great job. Love it all.

My sister and I got back from 3 weeks in Las Vegas. This is our second year, and I always drag my sorry butt to the airport in disbelief that we have to return home. I usually stay a week off the strip at a condo, a week on the strip and the third week off the strip.

This year we sprouted our wings with bus passes and loved it. My sister seems to think I am addicted to buses as each morning the bus route map would come out as I would ask, “and where are we going today?ö I Expect next year even more bussing. Loved the off the strip bus catching stops. We got to meet the local people going to work and for a few short weeks you really begin to feel part of the community. We would often say have a good shift and they wished us the same.

The condoÆs all have apartment set us and barbecues. My very favourite grocery store is Whole Foods market at the Town Square.. The freshness of the produce, great meats. I didnÆt know walnuts could actually taste that great and it was because they were fresh.

We live in a community in northern Ontario, so except for the short season local farmers market that lasts about a month or 2, our food is shipped in from a distance, so fresh is a word we read but with not a lot of meaning behind it.

We met a lovely lady at the Bill Mahar concert at the Palms. She lives in Vegas, and invited my sister to join her and one of her friends to dinner at the Palms buffet, and then a concert that started at 3 in the afternoon featuring a female impersonator. A truly delightful day. It really makes me smile as I can almost hear my grandfatherÆs words. A stranger is just a friend you havenÆt met. How true that is. We met so many nice people everywhere.

I have to say the staff at the Desert Paradise Resort are second to none. I was just amazed when the gal at the desk emailed to the Polo Towers, another Diamond resort and arranged for an early check in for us, and the driver at that resort took us to our next resort. We hadnÆt asked for all this kind extra arrangements on our behalf, but how nice was that? We were treated like queens.

Every year, I love my time in Vegas, I never want to come home. I love meeting new folks, love walking the strip, hopping on a bus. people watching, love the flowers, the fountains the great food. I just want it all. IÆm a pretty healthy almost 69 yr old, and hope my sister and I continue our Vegas holidays for many years. We are already planning next year.

I also loved the day trip to Laughlin. We have done that twice. Next year I plan to try out the water taxi on the Colorado river. It is all good.

Thank you for all the great editions of Access Vegas.

Yours truly,

Marjorie from Kapuskasing, Ontario, Canada

Ted Responds:

Usually we use this section to answer various reader questions, but this was such a great letter that I wanted to run it in its entirety! Because of the price of airfare, I’ve been suggesting fewer trips here but staying longer each time. It really gives you a chance to relax, enjoy your visit, not feel rushed, and experience those things you may put off each trip thinking “we just don’t have the time”.

Renting a condo or time-share for an extended stay is really gaining in popularity because you have a small kitchen, decent refrigerator/freezer, and can really save (as compared to eating out meal after meal after meal). One of the many, many things we’d like to do when we go to a paid membership platform is to research and highlight all those options and make that information available to those subscribers.

While many choose to rent a car, many of our major east/west streets have bus routes that actually run 24/7, so the system is pretty easy to use!

One of the fun things about Las Vegas is the ease of meeting people and just going with the flow. As with any travel destination, do take normal precautions for the safety of yourself and your possessions. But, there is something really fun about just setting out to have fun!

We get asked about Laughlin quite often and hope to do a little better job with Laughlin information down the road. The water taxis run along the Colorado River taking you from casino to casino and across the river to sister city Bullhead City, Arizona.

Town Square is a beautiful large outdoor shopping, dining, and retail area one mile south of Mandalay Bay. Probably not a “must see” for your first visit, but for those Vegas veterans who have not checked it out, shame on you! It is a relatively quick cab ride and also served by the double-decker buses that run The Strip. And yes, for those interested, it has a full-sized Whole Foods.

I looked up Kapuskasing, which is a modest-sized town about 800 km north of Detroit (as the crow flies). It looks like a beautiful area, but we’re happy to be able to give you our “sun and fun” escape for a few weeks per year. Thanks for the great report!

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

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 12, 2013

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Air Force Captain Returns From Active Duty And Boards Pirate Ship At Treasure Island To Surprise Family – United States Air Force Captain John ôArrowö Costa surprised his family earlier this evening by walking onto the pirate ship at the conclusion of the Sirens of TI show at Treasure Island. Captain Costa was not scheduled to return from his one-year deployment in Qatar for another week.

His wife, Lori, helped coordinate the surprise for the coupleÆs daughters, Ally, 10 and Tally, 6.

After the surprise, the family was treated to dinner at GilleyÆs Saloon, Dance Hall & Bar-B-Que and the evening performance of Cirque du SoleilÆs Mystere.

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Wine And Cocktails

CharlieÆs Wine Angels Light Up Aureole With New LED Designer Outfits – The wine angels of Chef Charlie PalmerÆs Aureole at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino recently unveiled a new designer outfit during an exclusive Las Vegas Fashion Week event. Created by eco-friendly fashion designer Bunker Hill Bradley, the bold, fashion-forward attire is adorned with 20 feet of LED ôangelicö lights each displaying more than 100 shining bulbs.

The striking uniform ensures that guests can easily spot the wine angels as they gracefully ascend and descend the iconic four-story wine tower for which Aureole is renowned. Photo: @BillyWardPhotography

Rockhouse Serves Up Electrified Specials June 21-23 With Open Bar And Food Specials – Flower-power partygoers and all Las Vegas visitors will enjoy psychedelic drink specials at Rockhouse, located at Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian | The Palazzo, throughout the Electric Daisy Carnival, from Friday, June 21, until Sunday, June 23.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Rocks National Daiquiri Day With Buy-One-Get-One – Cabo Wabo Cantina inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will host a rockinÆ National Daiquiri Day fiesta on Friday, July 19.

The Strip-side cantina will raise a toast to the date dedicated to the festive drink by serving up buy-one-get-one frozen daiquiris all day. Refreshing frozen daiquiri selections include Pi±a Colada, Strawberry, Margarita and Cherry Lemonade.

I like Las Vegas In June

Dining In Las Vegas

Chef Guy Fieri Opens First Las Vegas Restaurant At The Quad Later This Year – Restaurateur, Chef, Author and TV host Guy Fieri expects to open his first Las Vegas restaurant in late 2013 at the entrance of The Quad Resort & Casino. Located in the heart of the famous Las Vegas Strip, the 7,000 sq. foot restaurant will be a new restaurant concept from Fieri developed as part of The LINQ, Caesars EntertainmentÆs $500 million dining, retail and entertainment development next to The Quad.

ôThis is a true homecoming for me,ö said Guy Fieri, a University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) alumnus having graduated in 1990 with a bachelorÆs degree in hospitality management. ôI remember the beginning of the food revolution in Las Vegas, in the early 90Æs as a college student, and now I am finally opening my very own restaurant right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. I am stoked.ö

Gambling And Gaming

Las Vegas Live TV – Great Casino Slots – Wheel of Fortune – Episode 5 – Season 1

From Live in front of The Flamino Las Vegas, “Vegas” Vic Royer give you an overview of the latest version of the ever-popular Wheel Of Fortune, what’s been added, and how to play!

More Las Vegas News

Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – The old saying is “If you don’t like the heat, get out of the kitchen” and we’ve been on the warm side the past week, no doubt about it. One record-setting day of 111 and another nearly record-setting day of 109 is quite the change from the really nice, moderate, flawless spring. And above the June average of 99 F.

Now… I’m used to it. Was out on my back deck a few nights ago, 96 degrees. Warm? Sure. But soothingly for a desert rat like me. Same with a Monday evening trip to Fremont Street. For the rest of you who don’t live here and aren’t used to it:

Everybody talks about sunscreen (and do use plenty of it), but I rarely — if ever — read articles and such about visiting Las Vegas that talk about hydration. Water is extremely essential. Because our climate is so dry, you do perspire but often don’t feel it. Then you wake up the next day wondering why you have such a bad hangover, when a huge part of a hangover is dehydration!

Solution – Order an ice water with every booze drink (there will be no charge). In fact, I prefer to ask for it in a beer pint, easy on the ice so I get plenty of water. Even if I’m moving on, I can down quite a bit of the water and stay hydrated as I move to my next location. At the games and slots, you can usually ask for a bottled water in addition to your cocktail.áAnd yes, even beer can dehydrate you because of the alcohol content.

Also, there is some kind of rumor out there that our tap water isn’t safe. Not so (or I’d be dead)! It simply tastes a bit like well water (high mineral content) because it comes from the Colorado River — just east of town — and the river has a high mineral content. As a side note, this high mineral content is what creates the “bathtub line” around Lake Mead.

If you have partied a bit too much and ignored my advice, at least guzzle yourself a glass (or two) of tap water when you get back to your room. Trust me, the so-so taste is a small price to pay for helping reduce your morning hangover level.

PS I follow my own advice. My friends have been surprised over the years that I rarely get a bad hangover, simply because I hydrate all through the evening, down some water before bed, and some more when I wake up in the middle of the night.

Hotel Oversupply Will Continue – Visitation looks to remain steady for the foreseeable future, which means that hotel rates should remain pretty much unchanged. We still have more rooms than visitors, which means the law of supply and demand is keeping rates in check. The caliber of a Las Vegas room compared to what you’ll pay in any other city is night and day. (Even with the dreaded resort fee added in).

Within a couple of years, the new Resort World (old Stardust property) and SLS (old Sahara) will bring thousands more rooms online. Unless visitor counts really jump over the next couple of years (highly unlikely in my book), Las Vegas rooms should continue to remain a relative bargain.

Let’s Blow Up The Harmon – CityCenter’s Harmon Tower (the stubby looking, half-finished one next to Cosmo) has been deemed to be beyond repair regarding the construction defects which halted the project. This brings us one step closer to seeing it imploded.

I’m completely in favor. Bringing it down would give The Strip some visual “breathing room” which is getting to be in short supply. Many of you have written suggesting that they blow up all of CityCenter, which with its cold blue color looks and feels so out-of-place on The Strip. Unfortunately, that isn’t in the cards.

Regular visitors know that it wasn’t that long ago you had a block or two here and there between resorts. The Strip felt less boxed in, and you could enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains that make the Southwest U.S. so special.

Unhappy Living Here – I always advise people to really do their research before moving here. If at all possible, come visit for a couple of weeks and live like a local. Stay off the strip at a locals hotel (or better yet, an extended stay non-casino hotel). Rent a car for the entire stay. Drive the entire area (including during rush hour). Stop in at local bars, restaurants, stores and the like in the area you are considering living in. Why?

If I had a dollar for every person I’ve met who lives here and doesn’t really like it, I’d have a pretty hefty roll of cash.

What is the #1 determination of whether you’ll be happy here or not? How you handle really hot weather. The happiest people I know who live in Las Vegas, Phoenix, Tucson, Palm Springs and other areas of our Desert Southwest are people who actually like/enjoy the heat.

I’m one of them. Our average Dec./Jan. high of 57 is chilly for my blood. Don’t get me wrong: I wouldn’t want to stand out in 100+ weather for hour at a time or be digging ditches in it. But when it comes to lounging around, most who love it here think that 90 degrees feels great.

Final Note: Between all of the cities I mentioned above (plus smaller ones like Yuma, Laughlin/Bullhead and others), around 10 million people live in our Desert Southwest where summer temps average above 100. It is our trade-off for a spring and fall that feels like much of the nation’s summer, warm nights much of the year, and not owning heavy jackets or snow equipment. But, it isn’t for everyone.

International Air Traffic Up – We’re seeing a small uptick (year over year) in visitors from beyond our borders, which is good news for Las Vegas. We realize that many of you (especially those crossing oceans to get here) could spend your holiday in many other places around the world, and appreciate you choosing Las Vegas.

While the visitors authority hopes that someday Las Vegas visitation may be comprised of 25% international visitors, I’m continually proud to note that right around 25% of our readers are already from outside the U.S. and we’re happy to help you make the best of those precious vacation time and budget!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I’m taking a first timer to Vegas. Have been reading up on the place since I last visited two years ago and am a bit disappointed that I’ll not be showing him the Strip at it’s best.

I understand that the front of the Monte Carlo is a building site, the front of NYNY is also under construction. Bill’s is closed, the former Imperial is also being worked on.

Some how feel short changed that the stroll up and down the Strip is going to be more hassle than relaxation……

Dave Kendall from UK

 

Ted Responds:

The Las Vegas Strip is four miles long, and only a couple of spots (New York-New York/Monte Carlo and Bill’s to Quad) are construction areas. So, the vast majority of The Strip is intact. For those who worry about possible construction noise, I’d simply stay away from booking New York-New York, Monte Carlo, Flamingo or The Quad. You’ll be fine!

Having said that, the lack of construction you saw two years ago was an anomaly. In the 20 years I’ve been here, seldom has there NOT been something major under construction. Most of The Strip will be pretty quiet once Linq (Harrah’s) and Park (New York-New York) are done, sans the construction of the new arena behind New York, New York. The major action will be on the north end of The Strip with SLS (former Sahara) and Resorts World (former Stardust property).

Regarding our story Terrible’s Hotel & Casino Begins Transition To Silver Sevens With Removal Of Iconic Sign:

With the change over to the Silver Sevens, will your points with Terrible’s still be in effect or will they be lost.

Mary Ann Petit

 

Ted Responds:

This is simply a name change, not an ownership change. Back in the 90’s, Terrible’s used to be called The Continental. (In fact, as The Continental it was my first locals hotel, within walking distance of my first apartment here. Their lounge act? Cook E. Jarr, who still performs at Harrah’s piano bar Saturdays and Sundays at 4 PM).

It was bought out by the local Herbst family, who owns a significant number of “Terrible Herbst” convenience stores all over town. They simply renamed it Terrible’s because of the local name recognition. However, realizing that the name probably wasn’t a good marketing strategy, the present owners have given it the new Silver Sevens moniker.

By the way, for those driving in (or renting a car) and on a budget, absolutely nothing wrong with this property. As one that caters to locals, you’ll find much better food and drink prices, looser slots, lower limits, and we’ve always experienced a friendly staff. You are literally 3 minutes from The Strip by car (although probably a bit farther away than most of you would want to walk).

One more thing: The only time you need to really worry about your points is when two properties with two different sets of reward criteria merge. That’s when they have to figure out how to integrate them!

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

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe June 5, 2013

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

Need to contact us? Send feedback to
AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com

Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Las Vegas Hotels

Aria Hotel Finally Has A Marquee On The Strip – At 250 feet tall, the new Aria marquee is the tallest on the Las Vegas Strip. The majority of its surface area is comprised of LED display with nearly 11,000 square-feet of LED on each side. Designed by YESCO, the marquee stands at 65-feet wide as the unique design allows pedestrians to walk through its legs. The screens burst more than 11 million pixels as customized messaging featuring ARIAÆs amenities and experiences plays to the millions of visitors exploring The Strip.

Las Vegas Shows, Headliners, And Concerts

Party, Drink, Smoke, and Swim

Trevi Heats Up Summer With New Specials And Gelato Happy Hour – Trevi inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will introduce tasty new $10 summer entrÚe specials and a gelato happy hour throughout the months of June, July and August.

To kick off the warmer season, Executive Chef Peter Scaturro will prepare a different $10 brick-oven-fired pizza each day throughout the entire month of June. The specialty pizzas of the day will include Chicken Marinato made with roasted chicken, pancetta, roasted garlic, spinach and mozzarella; Shrimp and Pesto made with Gulf shrimp, prosciutto, pesto sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella and Asiago cheese; Italian Sausage made with peppers, roasted garlic and mozzarella; Margherita made with Roma tomatoes, mozzarella and fresh basil or more. Photo Credit: Peter Scatturo

Dining In Las Vegas

Tacos & Tequila Inside The Luxor Stays Up All Night With New Late Night Menu – Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor Hotel and Casino will introduce a late night menu available 11 p.m. to close* throughout the summer. Night owls may enjoy late night specialty drinks and eats created by Corporate Executive Chef Saul Ortiz. The menu features mouthwatering items such as guacamole, queso fundido, flautas, nachos, cheese or chicken quesadillas, haba±ero chicken wings and a three-taco combo including shredded beef, shredded chicken and pork carnitas, priced at $6 each.

Gambling And Gaming

Las Vegas Live TV – Great Casino Slots – Megabucks – Episode 4 – Season 1

This week, “Vegas Vic” tells you about the ever popular Megabucks slots with jackpots starting at $10,000,000!

More Las Vegas News

Summer Arrives Early At BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – The first official day of summer isnÆt until June 21, but the hottest season of the year has already arrived at BellagioÆs Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. The lush summer floral exhibition is filled with oversized sunflowers, polychromatic kites and live birds for guestsÆ enjoyment through September 8.

Upcoming Las Vegas Events And Holidays

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’m back in the saddle after dealing with some medical issues last week (nothing fatal!) and also dealing with a computer data loss that may happen to you, so I’ll fill you in on that in a minute. Summer is in full swing, as is the construction of both the Park and Linq projects we’ve detailed in the past. Next week, we’ll have updates on that including new photos. For those worried about noise, we continue to advise NOT staying at New York-New York, Monte Carlo, Quad and Flamingo.

Priscilla – Queen Of The Desert – This outrageous, feel-good show is here in Las Vegas for a limited run and if you are coming this summer, you’ll want to put this on your “to see” list. Everybody is raving about it! Click on the Priscilla button (toward the top of this issue) and you’ll be able to not only watch a free preview video, but also get a code to save you $30 per ticket, just for our readers. That isn’t loose change!

Getting A Little Warm – After an incredible spring of “summertime” weather, we are into our three hot months. June average is 99F, July is 104F, and August is 102F before we get to fall where Sept. is in the 90’s and October barely peeks into the 80’s.

Every year, visitors say “How can anybody live here” (in reference to the heat) but at the end of the day, if weather keeps me indoors much of the time, I’d rather walk out into the heat than the cold. My jackets collect dust in my closet all but the coldest months of the year!

On The Train To Flavortown – UNLV graduate Guy Fieri has announced plans to open a restaurant at the Imperial Palace Quad. Right out front with a great view of The Strip. I was a big fan of Guy back from when he competed on the Food Network series to find their next big star and both of his shows are on my DVR subscribed list. Food snobs hate him, but isn’t food supposed to be fun? Full details next issue!

Real Live “Hangover” Movie Scene – A Los Angeles attorney and his friends did nearly $100,000 worth of damage to two-story suite at Wynn’s Encore hotel. According to reports, the furniture was in disarray, broken glass abound, and it appears they had a food fight! More details here: Lawyer trashes Las Vegas luxury suite ‘Hangover’ style

Homeless Wayne Newton – Well, not quite. But with the failure of the plans to turn his long-time, famed Casa De Shenandoah sprawling estate into the western Graceland, Wayne Newton and family are being forced to relocate. He’ll still be living in style in a mansion in the same general area, but losing your lifetime domicile in this manner has to hurt no matter who you are. Wayne is playing Birchmere Music Hall in Alexandria, VA in June 12 and a few tickets are still available: Wayne Newton Tickets

If It Is Listed, It Is Playing – If you’ll look to your left, you’ll see our concert and headliner calendar running down the page. From time-to-time we get questions about who is playing in such-and-such a month (usually many months down the road). If we have the info, we post it. If you aren’t seeing much listed for your month, just keep checking back every issue as your trip gets closer and you’ll see more and more information appear as events are scheduled!

Don’t Lose Your Data – This isn’t Vegas related, but may be important to some of you. (If not, just keep scrolling).

I’ve been using Mozy online data back-up for about three years, thinking my data was safe. This includes my email, as I use the very popular Thunderbird email client for business. (I’m not 100% comfortable with Google having access to every aspect of my business via Gmail. I’m sure they don’t peek, but still…). Using Mozy, I checked the appropriate folder containing my entire email program and went on my merry way, thinking that all was fine. After all, that is the way Mozy works. You check a folder and everything in that folder is automatically backed up by them twice per day. Perfect, right?

Not so fast. A Mozy glitch — one I learned that they have been aware of since 2010 — causes Mozy to NOT back up many any email subfolder files in Thunderbird. Despite those files being in a folder that was specifically check-marked by me for back-up! Some of my email files corrupted on my computer recently, and I couldn’t retrieve the data from Mozy because of this glitch. Both important business emails and irreplaceable personal files that had sentimental value. Gone forever

Mozy was completely unapologetic, claiming that it was my responsibility to go double-check that every single file in every single folder — including folders checked for complete inclusion — are checked. That means that if you are a Mozy user, you had better go manually check every single file (even if you have hundreds or thousands of files backed up through them) to make sure there is a check mark by each and every single file indicating back-up. You can’t just check a folder and assume they will back up the entire folder (even though that is how the service purports to work).

Bottom Line: If you are using Mozy, I’d switch to another service TODAY. Don’t get screwed like I did where their glitch lost me a ton of data, only to have them shrug their shoulders at it. They did not protect my data and when they failed, they did not care.

Correction: We mislinked the story regarding the attorney who filed a complaint about being long-hauled and was not happy with the response. Here is the correct link: Attorney alleges runaround after long haul

Hope you are enjoying this issue!

Associate Editor / News Researcher: Rick Ziegler

Concerts and Headliners: Amy Rayner-Cooley

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

This is regarding the cabs overcharging from the airport to the hotels. The only time we took the shuttles was the first couple of times going to Vegas, we have been taking cabs for close to 20 years and never had a problem before, plus having taken cabs so often, we know the approximate cost to most of the hotels.

Last October we took a cab from the airport to the Paris. Immediately we knew something was wrong as he was going a way that we had never been, my husband and I kept looking at each other and then we finally asked him where we were going. He said that this way was faster. Bare in mind this was at 10 a.m.

When we got to the Paris he said that we owed him $25.00. My husband told him that we knew he was screwing us, that it should have been approximately $12-13.00. The driver offered to give the money back but we said to keep it and that was his tip too!

When we got home I complained to the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority, It took them 2 months to reply but they said they would forward the complaint on to the cab company. 3 months after the incident we heard from the cab company wanting our correct address to send us a refund cheque, which we received a couple of weeks later…in full. It was Nellis Cab #626.

I would advise anyone heading to Vegas to Google the cost of the cab from the airport to the hotel that they are staying at. We really did appreciate receiving the refund, at least they were admitting that what the driver did was wrong.

Grant and Ronni from Essex, Ontario, Canada

 

We started renting a car in Vegas many years ago so itÆs been awhile since weÆve had to take a taxi, but we were long hauled once too. IÆm so tired of reading about it and even more tired of not seeing anything done about it. I think the Taxi Authority is an absolute joke.

I believe the solution to this problem is, if you are long hauled û donÆt pay!! (Wait until you get to your destination before you announce this). DonÆt just withhold their tip, donÆt pay them what you think the fare should have been û simply DONÆT PAY AT ALL!!

Sure the taxi driver will get angry and maybe threaten to call the cops. Yes, LetÆs call the cops û IÆll dial!!!

Thanks for letting me vent!

Linda in Texas

 

Ted Responds:

Lots of great points, and this is certainly a hot-button issue that we’re going to do as much as we can about. When we go to a paid subscriber situation (which I’ll discuss after the next letter), we’ve got some ideas on how to protect our subscribers from getting long-hauled and walking people through the situation of what to do. I know that by the time one gets to their hotel, they last thing they want to do is fill out paperwork, and when they get home, they just forget about it and let it go.

The Nevada Taxicab Authority has two great resources that you all should print out. At the very least, print out the first brief one, but the second one is really nice and detailed:

Approximate Minimum Rates – McCarran Airport To General Locations

Approximate Minimum Rates – McCarran Airport To Specific Hotels

Note: Do keep in mind that no matter what the route, if you are here while a big convention arrives or you fly in on a Friday night, the traffic is going to cause the fare to be higher.

Also, the “simply don’t pay” advice is great. I realize that some people don’t want to bring up any issues while they are in the cab. You don’t know the town and don’t want to create a fuss. However, once you arrive at your hotel, your ride is done and that is a great time to raise some hell. The cabbie is stuck, because to call in the police or taxi authority means that they will ask what the fare you owed was. And since you were long-hauled, it will be obvious that the fare was too high.

They cabbie will probably express his displeasure, but he’ll be on his way eating the cost of the ride. In fact, for you real cheapskates out there, you may want to catch a cab, keep your mouth shut, and HOPE that you get long-hauled so that your ride is FREE!

I absolutely love your newsletter and thoroughly enjoy reading it! My husband and I will be visiting Las Vegas during the 4th of July – and bringing some friends along!

I am opting for the economical route of taking the shuttle to and from the airport and was wondering if you can recommend any particular shuttle companies that may be better than others. The reviews typically are not very good, but in retrospect, I realize that people with good experiences don’t always take the time to write a review. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers,

Sonja

 

Ted Responds:

I wish I could! Living here, I confess that this is one area I’ve not experienced. This is another subject that we’re going to delve into deeper and do some “field testing” for once we go to a paid subscriber option.

At the end of the day, we’ve never heard (nor experienced) any horror stories. The only downside is that you’ll be on a shuttle with people going to various hotels and you may not be the first to be dropped off. BUT, to know you are getting a flat rate and not dealing with a questionable cab driver is worth it.

Plus, if you are not the first to be dropped off, consider the extra few minutes a free tour of The Strip!

A general note to everyone: We WILL be going to a paid subscriber model around the end of summer. As things stand right now, we can’t begin to answer every question, every email, or provide you 1/20’th of the kinds of helpful information that you often request (and that you’d find even more valuable in saving you time, money, and simply making your every stay a better one).

As per the cost, I noticed that a cup of coffee or soft drink at a convenience store costs $1.50 – $2.00 (sometimes a little more). For those who wish to “buy us a cup of coffee” just once per month, we’ll use that money to provide information, and do research on the many, many additional things that you all have indicated you want. This helpful, bonus information will only be available to paid subscribers.

In addition, we will GUARANTEE a response to paid-subscriber questions. We either KNOW the info or we know where to get it. We live and work in the shadow of the Las Vegas Strip (almost literally) and if push comes to shove, we’ll get someone in their car and get them to check out something first-hand if that’s what it takes. With everyone pitching in to help us with a cup of coffee each month, we’ll be able to help you in return!

Couple of notes: 1. We know that some of you don’t visit every year. If you don’t visit during your first year as a paid subscriber, we’ll give you another year on us to give you a chance to get the value you deserve. 2. For those of you who patronize our sponsors and partners, you’re membership will be comped if you spend $500 or more in a single year. Since our partners/sponsors include hotels, shows, concert tickets and the like, hitting that number could prove to be very easy!

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