Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 4, 2007

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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


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

Hello From Las Vegas! Huge local news week out of Las Vegas, but not necessarily for the right reasons. So we’ll jump right in:

Moron Shoots Up The New York, New York – A deranged man who apparently was looking for a fight with the police and going through immense personal troubles opened gunfire in New York, New York Hotel Casino.

Two off-duty police and two military guys tackled him and kept further harm from happening until security and local police arrived. (Side Note: The hotel noted that they are taking very good care of these heroes and will also invite them for a comped return visit). No one was killed, and injuries to a very few were minor. We’ve gathered the following news links:

Last year, we had the guy high on various substances and (allegedly) thinking that people were after him and that he had to inflict harm on people drove up on the sidewalk by Ballys killing and injuring a number of people.

So, how safe is Las Vegas? Let’s put a few things in perspective: Over 41,000,000 people visit Las Vegas each year. Incidents like this are amazingly few and far between.

In fact, committing a crime in our tourism areas is a foolish act considering that our Metro (Local) Police patrol The Strip, each casino has extensive security to keep you (and their cash) safe, and cameras are everywhere. Very few places on the Las Vegas Strip exist where you are out of site of a security camera.

Let’s put this in a personal perspective: I’ve lived here almost 15 years and have visited The Strip in “tourist” mode* thousands of times. (* Tourist mode meaning out and about actually on The Strip, just as you the tourist would as opposed to someone working in a casino who enters through the back then goes home without ever walking The Strip and experiencing all of the things you do).

I’ve encountered no problems, never been worried, and won’t be staying away from our tourism areas. I’m no math wizard, but you seriously probably have a better chance on winning tens of millions on a Megabucks machine than the odds of having something harmful happen to you while visiting Las Vegas.

The other big story was the heat. Yes… it got damn hot. 116 degrees last week, with overnight lows in the 90’s. A few related stories:

Look… I love Las Vegas. 110 doesn’t register with me. Hot? Yes. But not a problem. We get temps 115 and above less often than many cold climates get blizzards or ice storms. Give me 110 any day over freezing temps. I don’t own snow chains, snow tires, a snow shovel, and own far more shorts than long pants.

Having said that… when visiting here in the summer, please take precautions. Stay indoors, and still keep drinking plenty of water. Our humidity last week dipped to 3% on a number of occasions. Even indoors, water is being sapped out of your body.

My water tip? Skip the bars and their expensive, little water bottles. Every hotel has a gift shop, where you will find more reasonable prices. Up and down The Strip are various sundry stores that also will have big, cold bottles of water at reasonable prices. Use them. (By the way… this same tip for finding more reasonably prices bottles of water also works for finding reasonably priced beer all year long).

Enjoy This Issue!



Mamma Mia! Lights Up The Stage With Brilliant New Cast Members – In Its Fifth Year Mamma Mia! Continues To Bring Variety To The Stage – The longest-running and most successful Broadway musical to hit The Las Vegas Strip, MAMMA MIA! (Tickets), adds four new, talented principals from film, television and the stage to the Las Vegas cast on July 30, 2007. Recently celebrating its fourth anniversary in Las Vegas and still receiving rave reviews, MAMMA MIA! is fun, energetic and makes “you feel like you’re part of the event”- Las Vegas Review-Journal. Actress Libby Winters, joins MAMMA MIA! in the lead role of Sophie Sheridan, the bride-to-be. With experience in film, television and stage including “The Like Girl,” “Champs” and the New York musical White Noise, Winters brings new life to the show. Click to Read The Full Story …

Academy Of Country Music Awards Nominee Diamond Rio Is Set To Perform Friday, July 13 At Whiskey Pete’s Showroom – After their recent Academy of Country Music nominations for “Vocal Group of the Year” and “Vocal Collaboration of the Year” for “Me And God,” Diamond Rio will perform at Whiskey Pete’s Showroom in Primm, Nev., on Friday, July 13 at 9 p.m. (Tickets) Diamond Rio is best known for their classic songs “Meet in the Middle” and “Love a Little Stronger” and their latest hits “I Believe” and “What a Beautiful Mess.” Click to Read The Full Story …

American Superstars Show At The Stratosphere Casino Hotel And Tower To Add Prince Tribute For A Limited Engagement – The American Superstars (Tickets) show at the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower will add Jason Tenner as Prince to its line-up of celebrity tributes to yesterday’s and today’s hottest music stars for a limited engagement beginning July 9, announced American Casino & Entertainment Properties officials. “Jason Tenner is a veteran performer who makes you believe that you are hearing and seeing Prince. It takes a very talented showman to even come close to matching the raw energy and musical brilliance that makes Prince so endearing to his fans,” says Mark Callas, who produces American Superstars with his Springtime Productions partner, Donny Moore. Click to Read The Full Story …

Las Vegas Kwik-E-Mart – Yes, the Las Vegas area has one of the only a handful 7-11 stores across the U.S. which have been converted to Kwik-E-Mart stores in honor of the new Simpsons movie. The location is in the suburb of Henderson at 1400 W Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89012

Unfortunately, it is about 14 miles from The Strip. Unless you drive to town or have a rental car, expect a $40-60 cab trip (and excessive problems getting a cab back for the return trip. Cabs don’t like serving area neighborhoods when they can be long-hauling tourists, running up the meter, and generally giving out crappy advice that makes them sound “helpful” in search of a bigger tip). Also, be prepared for something that shocks many visitors: You’ll end up in a nice but very normal neighborhood that is night-and-day from the glitz of The Strip.

Gladys Knight Set To Perform At Buffalo Bill’s Star Of The Desert Arena – Motown diva and Las Vegas veteran Gladys Knight will perform at Buffalo Bill’s Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nev., on Friday, July 20 at 9 p.m. Best known for time spent as Gladys Knight & the Pips, Knight celebrates her beginnings as well as finds success as a solo artist. Her soulful R&B songs appeal to a variety of audiences with favorites such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Midnight Train to Georgia” and singles “That’s What Friends Are For” and “End of the Road Medley: If You Don’t Know Me By Now.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Crazy Girls Volunteer For Double Date To Benefit Adam & Eve Fling – New Vista Community For Handicapped Adults To Benefit From Bachelor & Bachelorette Auction – Two of the dancer-performers from the “Crazy Girls,” (Tickets) the Russian model Valentina Smirnova and California beauty Summer Ferguson will be the first ladies on the auction block on Thursday, July 12th for a double date at the 4th Annual Adam and Eve Charity Love Fling Bachelor/Bachelorette Auction at The Empire Ballroom to benefit the New Vista Community. A VIP table of eight is $500 or VIP tickets are $65 per person while general admission is $20 per person. To purchase VIP tickets call Molly at 702.457.4677 at Ext. 27 or go online at newvistacommunity.org. You must be 21 to attend this function. The VIP party will be from 6 p.m. to about 7:15 p.m. The VIP admission includes guaranteed seating, a cocktail, appetizers; early admission and an awesome goodie bag. The bidding begins at 7:45 p.m. with the “Crazy Girls.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week:– will return next week. Please enjoy the thousands of great Las Vegas photos archives in our Access Vegas Photo Gallery. Also, scroll down for some great reader submitted photos this week!

Gambling Talk: Playing Middle Pairs In Tournaments – Part Two – with Victor H. Royer. Playing pocket 10s in late positions: Whenever you find yourself in late positions with pocket 10s, and the action has either been passed to you, or there have been only one or two limpers before it becomes your turn to act, play pocket 10s as if they were pocket Aces. By playing them so strongly you will advertise the fact that you indeed have a very strong hand, and therefore are likely to win not only the blinds, if those are the only opponents whom you are facing, but also the amount that has been invested in this pot by the limpers who have so called before you. Click to Read Complete Article…



Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Submitted Photos:

I saw you note about photos of Vegas in your last newsletter, here’s some from one of our previous trips a year or so ago. I thought I’d try some night shots. We’re from Basingstoke in the UK, and will hopefully get back to Vegas some time in the next couple of years.

Geoff Hawley
(5 – maybe 6 time Vegas visitor)

Ted Responds:

Thanks for sharing stunning photos! We know that many of you enjoy playing with your digital camera settings and are getting some amazing photos of Las Vegas (especially at night when things really light up).

If you have a great photo of Las Vegas to share with our readers (can be artistic or just a really enjoyable photo), send them to us at allvegastv@aol.com.


Have a Vegas comment or question? Post To Our Message Boards!

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

  • Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
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  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
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Readers Rants, Raves, and Questions – Great reader questions and comments from our Access Vegas Message Boards. Help someone out or post your own comment or question!

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

  • Civic Holiday (Canada) August 6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day September 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Columbus Day (USA), Thanksgiving Day (Canada) October 6-8 (3 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 25 (4 day weekend – Christmas on Tuesday)
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (4 day weekend – New Years on Tuesday)

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

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All contents copyright 2007 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

July 4, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 10, 2006

In This Issue: American Storm Giveaway, Boardwalk Implosion, Hard Rock Sold, Weather To Hit 100, New Local Directory, Country Music Awards Coming, New Lance Burton Show, Cool Indoor Attractions, more ….

Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com.
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Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com and can only be signed up for there. We do not buy or rent lists, and this information is only for our members and guests. If you feel you have received it in error, click the unsubscribe link at the bottom. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

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

Hello From Las Vegas! A couple of regular features are missing this week due to staff vacations, weddings (congrats to our writer Nancy Hruska who just tied the knot) and similar, but this is still jammed with stuff you need to know. In addition, we had our biggest streaming broadcast ever (scroll down for links) because so much is happening in Las Vegas!

The weather is in the 90’s and is scheduled to hit 100 degrees during much of this coming week with lows in the 70’s (F). The next time we’ll feel anything remotely resembling cool weather here in Las Vegas (anything under 70 degrees at any time of the day or night) won’t be until sometime in September. Pack your swimsuit and your shorts and leave the coats and even windbreakers at home.

Latest Insider Vibe Broadcast/Podcast Is “On The Air” – I keep you updated on the latest news, events, and exclusive commentary so you can have the true scoop on what is happening in Las Vegas.You can listen online right now at your computer (streaming audio). Choose your connection to listen now: Dial-Up or Broadband.Podcast users: Download and listen anytime. Click over to Radio.AccessVegas.com for MP3 download.

Current Giveaways!

Local Directory – We have just launched Local.AccessVegas.com local directory from Las Vegas. What makes ours different? Most online “yellow pages” directories for Las Vegas are run by out-of-state companies. We are here in Las Vegas and have the opportunity to modify the directory to make it helpful both to the locals and those of you visiting.

#1 Tip For Using Local.AccessVegas.com: Search by zip code (replace the default Las Vegas, NV in the search box with a zip code). Las Vegas has almost 2 million residents and it usually takes an hour (or more) to drive all the way across the valley. The key to local search is finding businesses in your neighborhood (or near your hotel).

Visitors, if you might need to find a local business like Kinkos, bakery, florist, bank or any other business that you might need on your visit, search by the zip code that relates to where you are staying: If staying on The Strip, use zip 89109 (The Strip) and 89119 (the business district closest to The Strip). If staying downtown, use zip 89101.

Locals, search using your zip code for best results.

Local Businesses and Public Relations people, we will add or modify your listings if absent or not accurate. No fee for a basic listing for any business … we list them all. Search for your business name. If information is present but not accurate, click on the business name for that directory page, then click on Update this listing. If business can’t be found, use this Add New Listing link. While we are starting with a huge database, what sets us apart is that we can update and modify it!

Enjoy This Issue!



Boardwalk Hotel-Casino Comes Tumbling Down – The 16 story Boardwalk Hotel-Casino came tumbling at 2:30 Tuesday morning. The building was imploded in order to make way for the construction of Project CityCenter. The implosion made use of 170 pounds of explosives placed in 977 strategic locations throughout the building on the ground, 2nd, 4th, 8th, 10th, and 12th floors. Click to Read The Full Story including Streaming Video …Country Music & Television Superstar Reba McEntire To Host 41st Annual Academy Of Country Music Awards – The Academy of Country Music announced the return of Reba McEntire as host of the 41st Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, Country Music’s Biggest Party of the Year. The event, which honors country music’s top talent as well as the industry’s hottest emerging talent, will be broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena Tuesday, May 23 at 8 p.m. EST/PST on CBS. Click to Read The Full Story or Purchase Tickets …

If You’ve Seen Lance Burton – New Wonders Await! Three Years And $3 Million Later “Master Magician” Show Is Bigger And Better Than Ever. June 21st, 2006 marks the 10th anniversary for Lance Burton’s dream magic show at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino which is widely regarded by people coming from the four corners of the world as the best magic show that can be found bar none. After performing for a decade in the Lance Burton Theatre which is reminiscent of West End London theatres its been acclaimed to have revolutionized Las Vegas entertainment from the old-fashioned showrooms that were designed for dinner shows to traditional high-end comfortable classy theatres. Click to Read The Full Story or Purchase Tickets …

Hard Rock casino sold for $770 million – After a lot of speculation, The Hard Rock Hotel is getting a new owner. The price tag: more than $700 million. The buyer is Morgans Hotel Group, a company that has upscale properties in New York, and Miami. Hard Rock owner Peter Morton announced the sale Thursday of the property for $770 million. Morton himself will pocket most of that money. Click to Read The Full Story including Streaming Video …

Eleanor For Sale at The Auto Collections – Muscle Mustang Starred in ‘Gone in Sixty Seconds’ Movie – She’s fast, fun and fabulous. She’s Eleanor. And she’s for sale. Eleanor returns to The Auto Collections at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino tomorrow, Wednesday, March 15. Click to Read The Full Story …

Rascal Flatts Brings “Me And My Gang Tour” To Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 15 – Multi-platinum country sensation Rascal Flatts will launch the second leg of their “Me and My Gang Tour” in May and will perform at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 15 at 8 p.m. More than 160,000 fans attended the first portion of this 20-city tour. Gary Allan is scheduled to open the evening’s performance. Rascal Flatts’ highly anticipated new album, Me And My Gang, debuted at No. 1 on the Nielsen’s Soundscan Top 200 album chart and the country album chart, making it the highest-selling CD across all genres. Click to Read The Full Story or Purchase Tickets …

Beat the Outside Heat with Cool Indoor Attractions – Enjoy the Las Vegas summer without getting scorched by the heat. While the sun is beating down outside, guests can scream with excitement at the Circus Circus Adventuredome, cooled to a constant 72 degrees and featuring more than 23 thrill rides. Or come face to face with the world’s most feared predators in Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. How about spending some time in the IMAX Theater at Luxor featuring the highly acclaimed Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon 3-D, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks?

If nature calls your name, check out The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Bellagio, where a historic banyan tree, which served as a famous Palm Beach, Fla. landmark for more than 100 years has become the focus of the conservatory for 2006. Maybe art is more up your alley? The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art presents exhibitions of paintings, sculpture and works on paper by the world’s most influential artists. Perhaps a visit to the wild kingdom? The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand and Siegfried & Roy’s Royal White Tigers at The Mirage provide guests with an up-close view of the king of beasts.

Wise Guide – History of Las Vegas boasts large cast of colorful — and dangerous — mobsters. Both the beginning and end of the mob’s famed influence in Las Vegas are marked by anniversaries this year. It has been 60 years since Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel opened the Flamingo, and 25 since Tony Spilotro’s Hole in the Wall Gang was busted during a burglary, the domino that would eventually topple the last organized-crime regime to rule the Strip. See a map of these famous Vegas mob landmarks and read the entire story …

VH1 Classic & Live Nation Present A Summer Of Rock When Def Leppard And Journey Visit The Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Aug. 18 – VH1 Classic and Live Nation are joining forces to bring one of the most high-energy, rockin’ summer tours to Las Vegas when rock legend bands Def Leppard and Journey perform at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Aug. 18. Click to Read The Full Story or Purchase Tickets …



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Readers WriteThanks so much for your great web site. I have been searching for an extended period of time looking for one exactly like yours. I’m a New York State resident and a time share owner on the strip. Any/all good, valid news about Las Vegas is a must for me. Keep up the good work, I look forward to your great presentations.

Pat from Williamsville, New York

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More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Memorial Day May 26-29 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 16-18
  • Independence Day June 30 – July 4 (4 day weekend)
  • Labor Day September 1-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparents Day September 8-10
  • Columbus Day October 6-9 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veterans Day November 10-12 (3 day weekend – Friday off)
  • Thanksgiving November 23-26 (4 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend – Christmas on Monday)
  • New Year’s Eve/Day December 29 – January 1 (3 day weekend – New Years on Monday)

Win and extreme $50,000 Backyard Makeover! Turn your backyard into your own personal oasis. Enter Now to win it all: Viking outdoor kitchen, patio furniture, a brand new deck etc. This and other Great Free Stuff, Bargains, and More on our AccessVegas.com Advertiser Deals page. Click there now!

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
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Tickets For All U.S. Cities Available!

See the Grand Canyon in a Jet Helicopter! For years Maverick Helicopters has been providing a true VIP Helicopter experience of the Grand Canyon. We do things a little different than any other helicopter Company. We give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Las Vegas Strip tours plus Helicopter Weddings also available!

For comprehensive regular updates of Las Vegas news concerning visitors, events, entertainment, hotels, gambling, real estate, and tourism, please visit our Las Vegas News Update Site and enter your email address there to subscribe and stay informed!Vegas Comments and Questions? Post to our message boards and get great advice from people who have been here and done it. And don’t forget our comprehensive Las Vegas Frequently Asked Questions area.

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

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

All contents copyright 2006 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

May 10, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

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


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

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 6, 2000

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 40 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 is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends! This newsletter is free. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to below

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Las Vegas Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars – All Cities: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Discount Hotel Rooms – All Cities: http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

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: Hoover Dam

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 allvegastv@aol.com


 


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

TERRIBLES HOTEL & CASINO – has just opened at Paradise and Flamingo (about a mile from Bellagio). It is the site of the former Continental, but bears no resemblance to that dive. The hotel has been completely renovated and transformed into an Italian Tuscany-style resort. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-30-Thu-2000/business/14911695.html and we have hotel info and rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Terribles Hotel link).

LAS VEGAS BOWL – UNLV and Arkansas both won games at the end of the season to become bowl eligible, and will meet up on Dec. 21 here in Las Vegas. The game will be televised on ESPN but rooms that week are running under $40 at some Strip hotels for those that want to see it live. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-04-Mon-2000/sports/14956117.html and http://www.sportingnews.com/cfootball/articles/20001204/278065.html , rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm , and tickets at http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/EventInfo?pid=646650

BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS – hit the MGM last night. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-06-Wed-2000/news/14975556.html and a list of winners at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/001206/02/ent-billboard-awards-list Britney Spears didn’t make a lot of friends at Gordon Biersch, failing to leave a tip on a comped meal. Story on that at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-06-Wed-2000/news/14970702.html

MEAL DEALS – The day of the 99 cent buffet is long gone, but Las Vegas still has a few great meal deals around. The catch? Many of them are off the menu. Every few months, we mention the Hard Rock’s complete steak and shrimp dinner for $5.95 (available in the coffee shop). The R-J notes a number of others at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-15-Wed-2000/living/14796640.html Print that article out and bring it on your next trip!

GOLD POINT GHOST TOWN – If you really want to explore the “wild west,” this one is for you. Multi-jackpot winner (some people have all the luck)! Herb Robbins used some of the cash to buy the ghost town of Gold Point, NV. He has spruced the place up just a little, and if you are willing to take the 3 hour drive north of Las Vegas, you can get bed and breakfast and take yourself back in time a bit. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Nov-14-Sun-1999/news/12286326.html , photos at http://www.ghosttowngallery.com/htme/goldpoint.htm , and info and reservations at http://www.goldpointghosttown.com

GUGGENHEIM – Two of the most prestigious names in the art world, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and the State Hermitage Museum of Russia, announced plans for an ambitious project in Las Vegas, including a seven-story museum. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-21-Sat-2000/news/14653795.html

MONORAIL – The Strip monorail project is on track, and will run from the MGM to The Sahara. Interestingly enough, it turns east in the Vicinity of The Venetian, missing much of the upper Strip. Story and map at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-10-Fri-2000/news/14795508.html

$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. 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!


 


Note: We have been remodeling! Our tours site at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours is now divided by types of tours (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, National Parks, Scenic Tours) with photos, tour descriptions, and more. We have added headliner information to the Shows page at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Olives (Bellagio) – http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00111601d.html

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

EFX – Changes are afloat. Rick Springfield takes over the lead roll from Tommy Tune in two months, and plans to take the show in more of an energetic rock direction. Full story at http://tv.zap2it.com/news/tvnewsdaily.html?14349

AT THE COPA – is no more. The show has sold well, but rumors of conflict between producer (and star) David Cassidy and costar Sheena Easton have been in the air almost from day one. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/001202/01/ent-david-cassidy

GUNS ‘N ROSES – are playing Las Vegas New Year’s Eve at the House of Blues. Full story and ticket info at http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/001206/story6.html Although I was a marginal fan of the group, I won’t be shelling out the $150 – $250 for a band who’s singer has a habit of wrecking shows with his tantrums.

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Penn and Teller – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-10-Fri-2000/weekly/14768184.html

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

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

Thursday – 64/42 Mostly Cloudy
Friday – 64/41 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 62/37 Scattered Showers
Sunday – 56/30 Scattered Showers

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FEATURE STORY: Hoover Dam

hoover-dam.jpg (17845 bytes)Hoover Dam has often been referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. If you have flown in from the east or the south, you might have seen it from the air, but nothing can compare to seeing it up close and in person.

Built between 1931 – 1935 to harness the flow of the Colorado River, Hoover Dam is primarily responsible for storing the water used by people and agriculture in the desert southwest including Arizona, California, and Nevada. California is entitled to 4,400,000 acre-feet, Arizona 2,800,000 acre-feet, and Nevada, 300,000 acre-feet a year from the river, and the dam stores it for constant release regardless of season. Sitting only 30 miles from the Strip, it is also a top tourist attraction for Las Vegas visitors.

Visiting the dam is a unique experience! With US 93 running across it, you are completely free to roam on the top of the dam. The view over the edge 550+ feet in the air and down Black Canyon on the Colorado River is worth the trip all by itself. For a $4 admission, the visitor’s center contains quite a bit of historical and interesting photos and exhibits. There is also a self-guided tour which you can print out online at http://www.hooverdam.com/service/Sgt2.pdf

However, the real fun are the two tours offered. The shorter tour is fine for most. Taking 30 minutes, you go down into the dam and view the generators and are taken at to the base of the dam, where you can peer down the canyon and up toward the top of the towering structure. However, if you have a sense of adventure or are more interested in the technical inner workings, the one hour Hard Hat tours is a must.

You descend into the side of the dam in an elevator cut through the volcanic rock, and after a short walk through a pure rock tunnel, emerge in the generator room. Unlike the short tour, you are taken via another elevator to the floor of the generating area where you stand next to the huge encased turbines.

You also are taken down below the generating area where you stand just above one of the pipes feeding water through the giant electrical turbines, and can actually see the shaft of the turbine rotating. From there it is outside, for the same magnificent view of the canyon and up at the dam that you enjoy with the shorter tour. You are also taken into tunnels where you can see the huge pipes that were buried in the walls of the canyon.

A real highlight of this trip is touring the inside of the dam itself, which is lined with two miles of tunnels that serve both for drainage (all dams have a minor amount of seepage inside) and inspection. When looking down over the edge of the dam (and especially looking up from the bottom), you might notice a few vents on the side of the dam. Guess what — on the hard hat tour you can actually walk to the vent and peer out at the canyon from the inner center of the dam. Truly amazing.

The tours is not for the claustrophobic, especially the hard hat tour where you take 10 separate elevator rides with 20 people to each elevator car, and also walk the interior tunnels of the dam which are around 5 feet wide and 7 feet tall.

The visitor center is open from 8:00 AM to 5:45 PM. Tours start at 8:30 AM and run the remainder of the day. Parking on the Nevada side (in the garage) is $3.00. Parking on the Arizona side is free. The Traditional tour is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $2 for kids 7 – 16. The Hard Hat tour is $25 and includes a hard hat which you get to keep.

For those without transportation, we offer Hoover Dam tours at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours/hoover-dam-tours.htm If you have drove to town or are renting a car, the dam is easy to find. Head south on The Strip to I-215. Go east on I-215 for about 10 miles until the freeway ends at a set of stoplights. Continue straight about 1/2 mile (I-215 turns into Lake Mead Dr.) to the junction with US 93/95 and head south. Stay on US 93 for the next 20 miles or so (through and past Boulder City). US 93 crosses the dam so once on US 93, you can’t get lost.

An alternate, more scenic route is to skip turning off to US 93/95 and stay on Lake Mead drive. Just stay on it (there will only be one fork in the road: veer right) — it is named Lake Mead Drive for a reason! This route is about 10 miles longer but skirts the lake with some great views before returning to US 93 just a couple miles from the dam. There is a toll station collecting $5 per car on this route.

IMPORTANT: Hoover Dam is a very popular attraction and US 93 also carries thousands of cars each day as the main road southeast out of Las Vegas. Plus, the dam is at a lower elevation than Las Vegas, resulting in temperatures that can be 10 degrees hotter than in the city. This can be brutal late spring to early fall. Also, the tours are usually the least crowded and most available early in the day. Hit the road early. Grab a cheap buffet breakfast at the Railroad Pass Casino (on your left just after crossing the railroad tracks as you head out of town on US 93/95) and get there early to beat the crowds and the heat.


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


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Mike and Nancy P. wrote:

>Based on your review, we had booked tickets for Jerry Lewis through
>the service listed in your newsletter.á We paid a little extra and got
>2nd row center seats.á Jerry puts on a truly spectacular show.á I
>can’t believe how he can go on for 2 hours, and still close with
>energy.á Sitting up close is definitely worth the few dollars extra to
>pick up his facial expressions.á I was amazed that the Friday night
>show (Nov 17) was not sold out.á Everyone should see this show.
>
>We stopped by the Aladdin and were not impressed.á My wife thought it
>was gaudy and tacky.á And they still have 100 trailers out back loaded
>with more stuff to put inside.
>
>We also went to Mandalay Bay and thought that was nice.á Any comments
>on how the rooms there compare to the Venetian?
>
>Thanks for the newsletter, it’s great.

Thanks for the kind words. Everybody continues to note that the service fee is a small price for guaranteed tickets before you arrive. You can always punch in the dates of your visit at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1 and see which shows and headliners are playing and how much the tickets are.

I am in my mid-30’s and went to see Jerry Lewis to review the show and see a living legend, but not expecting much. Boy was I wrong! For those who missed my Jerry Lewis review a few months ago, it is archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-09-13.htm

I’ve only seen the Venetian rooms (very impressive true suites). Readers, have you stayed at both Mandalay and Venetian? Give us a room comparison at allvegastv@aol.com

Alyce Templeton wrote:

>I, along with a small group of friends recently returned from a week
>long visit to Las Vegas – my first visit – what a great experience.
>It is truly an amazing town to explore and it offers some great side
>trips out of town which we took advantage of, namely the West Rim of
>the Grand Canyon and a Hoover Dam tour.á I have been receiving your
>Vegas e-mail column for about 4 months now and from the feedback I
>have been reading – was a bit skeptical about using any taxi service
>when in town.á However, I must say the few times we used a taxi to
>save time, our experience was nothing but good.á Drivers were very
>friendly and helpful (although one had the driving skills of a New
>York City Cabbie – he was polite also).á I asked one taxi driver why
>he thought they had such a negative reputation and he responded by
>saying he has found that either a driver is very good or very bad –
>not much middle ground.á I guess we were very lucky!á Hope to return
>in a few years to see all the new additions and changes in the works
>for this interesting town.á Thanks for this great newsletter which
>helps me to remember a very memorable vacation!

We are glad you had a great time! Unfortunately, it is feast or famine with the taxi drivers. The cab companies, like many other businesses, are having trouble finding and keeping good help. If you are at all geographically inclined, it never hurts to buy a Las Vegas city map so you can have a clue whether they are taking you the best route. If you ever have a dispute or feel that you got ripped off by a cab driver, get the name of the company and the cab number from the side of the cab and call the Taxicab Authority at (702) 486-6532

>We visiting Vegas in January.á My husband was in a car crash in March of
>this year and broke both ankles.á He still has trouble walking very
>far, so we need a way to get around on the strip and downtown.á Any
>information will help.

http://www.vegasdisabilityinfo.com has quite a bit of info, and if you can’t find the answers there you can email their webmaster at inett@earthlink.net

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Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at 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.

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ONLINE POLL – How do you usually get from the airport to your hotel? Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Send a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

LIVE LOCAL WEATHER & A FREE TRIP TO VEGAS!! – It now PAYS to keep an eye on the weather! Download and register your own weather bug today, know what your local weather, alerts, storm watches, local satellite, and INSTA-CAM shots from your town all from a single click of the mouse. Lets not forget the chance at a FREE TRIP TO LAS VEGAS! http://by.advertising.com/1/c/22838/8488//6025

LAS VEGAS VACATION – Frommer’s is giving away roundtrip air transportation for two between a major airport in the 48 contiguous states to Las Vegas, Nevada, five-nights accommodations at the Aladdin Hotel & Casino, tickets to American Superstars Show, a buffet lunch, and admission to the Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck. Enter at (contest closed)

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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.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm 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,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
December 6, 2000 ISSN: 1529-2770