Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 18, 2002

Posted on September 18, 2002October 27, 2009 by admin

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

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

THIS ISSUE: Reader Feedback and Interactive Information Forums

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SHOW REVIEW:

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

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

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FEEDBACK:

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

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

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

Now on to reader feedback!

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

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

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

Lynn Banks from England wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

N. Mills wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Iris wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 26, 2002

Posted on February 26, 2002March 25, 2010 by admin

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

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

THIS ISSUE: Showgirls Of Magic

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for March / April:

* Sahara – From $35.95 until 03/31/02
* Aladdin Resort Casino – From $75.95 until 04/30/02
* Flamingo Las Vegas – From $49.95 until 04/30/02

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

$100 HOTEL COUPON! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you a coupon for up to $100 back on any hotel stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Full details at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm

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

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

We are rolling into March here in Las Vegas! The weather has been pushing 70 degrees for a week now, and slated to be right around 70 for the next 10 days at least. Remember a jacket for the evenings.

All Vegas TV March episode is online at http://tv.accessvegas.com and a great episode it is this month! We covered the grand reopening of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Las Vegas and Mr. Puck was very gracious in granting us a nice interview. We also have a feature on Showgirls of Magic playing at the San Remo, including an interview with showgirl Theresa Marie. Guys, don’t miss this one! I’ve also included the print review of Showgirls of Magic later in this issue.

Our friend Cook E. Jarr is back from his winter break on March 15’th, resuming his midnight shows on Friday and Saturday nights outside at the Carnival Court at Harrah’s. Cook is ageless, but his crowds get younger and younger every year to enjoy his versions of standards, “old school” hip-hop, pop and dance from today’s charts, and more. It is no coincidence that he’s back in action when Spring Break cranks up in Las Vegas and you’d better believe we’ll be covering him on All Vegas TV in the near future! If you are going “Who is Cook E. Jarr” then check out http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr

NASCAR Fans: You still have time to book a trip to get from your hotel to the track like the drivers do — in a helicopter from The Strip straight to the speedway. My friend John Buch from Maverick Helicopters has arranged great rates for our readers. Contact him directly for details at (click) mailto:john@maverickhelicopter.com Make sure to ask for Access Vegas rates and act quickly — as you may guess, availability is getting very limited.

“Tony ‘n’ Tina’s Wedding” has launched at The Rio. This is a true version of the long running Off-Broadway show. The interactive dinner theater concept has the audience attending an “actual” wedding ceremony, reception, guests, and plenty of improv on the part of the actors. Ticket and show info available at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&id=162

The Bellagio appears to be going after Binion’s Horseshoe to take the title as THE poker place in Las Vegas. Nine different tournaments are slated for this year with buy-ins ranging from $3-10,000 depending on the tournament. Unlike Binion’s World Series of Poker (which lasts for weeks), these are going to be short tournaments taking only a few days.

Speaking of tournaments, the Las Vegas Hilton has just announced a $1 Million blackjack tournament to take place in 12 monthly rounds over the next year. Entry fee is $1000 and includes two nights lodging and other goodies. Each month, 16 players will advance to the finals and eight players will be chosen in a wild card drawing. Contact the Las Vegas Hilton at (800) 457-3307 for more info.

Syndicated radio “hot talker” Tom Leykis does his show live from The Palms Resort Friday, March 8. I’d love to tell you more, but the local affiliate didn’t have specifics as we go to press, nor has The Palms sent out a press release yet. If the broadcast isn’t available in your area, you can tune online his Phoenix affiliate KFNX live March 8 from 3-7 PM Pacific at http://www.renaissanceradio.com (simply click on the KFNX “Listen Life” button). If you are in Las Vegas, Leykis airs on 1140 AM on tape delay starting at 4 PM Pacific.

Would you do me a great big favor and take just 15 seconds of your time to forward this newsletter to one person right now while you are thinking about it (more if you like!)? That would be greatly appreciated and would help us keep our marketing costs down! Thanks in advance!

ITCHING TO GAMBLE – and Vegas is too far but you still want to visit a REAL gaming destination? We offer the same great discounts, guaranteed lower rates, and the $100 Rebate Spectacular for rooms in Atlantic City, Gulfport / Biloxi, and Reno as we do in Las Vegas!

* Reno:
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&Dest=RNO

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

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

* $100 Rebate Spectacular:
http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm

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Showgirls Of Magic:

I won’t deny that I’m pretty jaded. I know virtually every casino layout like the back of my hand, and have seen almost every single show, some multiple times. All Vegas TV reporter Elizabeth Rizzo will confirm that I was checking my watch during a recent visit to EFX, and this despite the fact that Rick Springfield has kicked it up a notch and EFX is once again a show worth seeing.

This makes it an even more pleasant surprise when I run across a show that delivers the goods for a decent price, and Showgirls of Magic keeps the promise. Take an intimate showroom, four beautiful ladies, magic, dancing, and hilarious specialty acts you are have a winner. You won’t be checking your watch — you’ll be forgetting time exists enjoying this fast-paced entertainment.

Showgirls have been a part of Las Vegas since the Rat Pack days and before, but generally in “window dressing” capacity. This is one of the first real attempts to capitalize on the complete performing talents of a set of showgirls and actually make them the stars of a magic revue. It’s worked unusually well as they run through a variety of eyebrow-raising illusions such as Houdini’s Metamorphosis, levitation, and a double rendition of “sawing the girl in half” with an interesting clothing switch thrown in.

Because of the modest showroom size, you won’t see larger-than-life scale illusions but this actually works in their favor. When sitting 42 rows back in the middle of 3000 people, it is tough to tell what is truly happening on stage (with regard to “magician’s secrets”). Here, you are close enough to see the area around the illusions and see the entire stage. If you ever thought these tricks were just camera angles when you saw them on TV, now is the chance to be truly mystified “right before your very eyes.”

Long time cast member Antonio Hoyos, one of the specialty acts, provides comic relief as “The Great Antoine.” Hoyos is “vertically challenged” and his mime-like shtick as a second-rate vaudeville magician provides some good laughs. Showgirls also features other specialty magic acts in addition to Hoyos which are subject to change, as many seem to rotate from one show to another. However, they always seem to get top acts.

Although the magic is great, they give equal attention to the “showgirls” moniker with well choreographed dance numbers performed in a variety of sexy costumes (topless during the second show). For a smaller showroom, they have gone to great care to provide good lighting and sound to give the show a “big production” feel.

Showgirls of Magic features both family (covered) and topless performances. It is the same great show, but geared at slightly different audiences. The covered version is still sexy with some bare buns and double entendres from the comedy acts, but generally suitable for both teens and grandma.

The topless performances (later show) tend to draw more of the “party crowd” specifically looking for the classy adult entertainment that Las Vegas is now known for. The dancers are naturally beautiful, fun, sexy, and tasteful. Although NOT a strip club atmosphere, the topless show is a good alternative to hitting a strip club for that group of guys out on the town. Everyone will have fun, no one will have to lie to their wife, and the ticket price still leaves plenty of cash in your wallet.

Showgirls of Magic plays at the San Remo Hotel Casino, just across from the main entrance to the MGM on Tropicana Avenue (next door to Tropicana Hotel). Side Note: The San Remo is a “best kept secret” as a nice, comfortable, slightly upscale property with great dining values and a friendly staff.

Showgirls of Magic is a production show (six nights a week) with a very moderate ticket price, providing one of Las Vegas’ great show values. For current times and ticket prices, please click http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&showid=253 and enter the dates of your visit to display prices and availability.

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EVENT LISTINGS:

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

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

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

FEEDBACK:

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

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

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

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

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

ENJOY THE BEACH! – We know many of our friends in the Midwest and southeast are familiar with the beautiful sugar-white sands of Panama City Beach and Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you aren’t, you should be! These beaches are closer and less expensive than other parts of Florida and continue to be ranked among the best in the world. Get the same great discount rates we offer for Florida also! Learn more about this spectacular area and get your FREE beach scenes screensaver http://www.beautifuldestin.com

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 6, 2002

Posted on February 6, 2002December 24, 2008 by admin

THIS ISSUE: The Mirage Hotel Casino Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for February / March:

* Flamingo Las Vegas – From $49.95 until 03/31/02
* Aladdin Resort Casino – From $75.95 until 03/31/02
* Terribles Hotel Casino – From $35.95 until 04/30/02

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

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

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

Cold, cold, cold, cold … we had a very unpleasant two week cold snap. Lows often dipped below 30 and sometimes the highs didn’t make it into the 50’s. This weekend’s forecast is for mid-60’s and sunny so things are back to normal for winter. Now is a great time to book for March and April here and get that early reprieve from winter.

Million Dollar Winner: For the third time in less than six weeks, a Boyd Gaming downtown casino has produced a million-dollar winner. Peggy Beels of Ontario, California won $1.2 million on The Addams Family Reel Saturday afternoon at the Fremont Hotel downtown. Beels, who had invested about $100 on the nickel game, walked away with a check for the full amount. The first thing Beels said she was going to do was to pay off her bills and take a cruise.

NASCAR Fans: Coming to the big race here? You know that traffic to and from a major NASCAR race is bad, and Las Vegas is no exception. The answer? Arrive quickly and in style like the drivers do — in a helicopter from The Strip straight to the speedway! Your NASCAR vacation is a memory, your vacation time is valuable, and you can tell your friends you arrived flying high over the Vegas Strip! My friend John Buch from Maverick Helicopters has arranged great rates for our readers. Contact him directly for details at (click) mailto:john@maverickhelicopter.com

Larry G. Jones, the man of 1,002 voices has a new home. He is very talented, and the price is right. Forget that $100 a ticket for Danny Gans. Jones performs each afternoon at 5 PM in the upstairs showroom of Fitzgerald’s downtown for a one-drink minimum. This guy is going to be one of the next Las Vegas “greats,” so catch him while you still can! (Gans is great, but one of the toughest tickets in town and out of the budget of many visitors.)

Fat Tuesday: Celebrate Mardi Gras at McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood House on Feb. 12. You have NO EXCUSE not to attend the best Mardi Gras party in Las Vegas! There will be food and drink specials as well as a costume contest. McCormick and Schmick’s is about 3 blocks from The Strip on Flamingo (just before Paradise on the left). We are giving away a $50 McCormick and Schmick’s gift certificate this month on All Vegas TV. For more information on the contest, and Bacardi Gras see this month’s All Vegas TV show at http://tv.accessvegas.com/videos/program (the info is just a few minutes into the show).

We had a great time at Showgirls of Magic recently and this show at the San Remo (next to The Tropicana, steps off The Strip) is a lot of fun for the money. You get beautiful Vegas Showgirls, magic, comedy and specialty acts in a quick-moving show. The early show is covered, and the later show is topless. (Guys … hit the late show with your buddies. You won’t find this much eye candy for the price anywhere else). Ticket and additional show info at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&id=94

Speaking of showgirls, a big tip of the hat to E! Entertainment (cable channel) for their “Vegas Showgirls: Nearly Famous” show airing Monday nights at 10 PM. This show covers the lives of four female and two male dancers in Jubilee. Yes, they show the wild nights out that twenty-somethings enjoy here. But they also show these Las Vegas residents fighting traffic, going to Starbucks, and enjoying their apartment / condo pool in the Las Vegas sunshine — what a shock … people actually live normal lives here!

The Fielding West Show: Comedy, Tricks and Naked Chicks opens this week. You may remember him from A&EÆs An Evening at the Improv, NBCÆs WorldÆs Greatest Magic, CarolineÆs Comedy Hour, and NBCÆs WorldÆs Wildest Magicians and having seen him before, I’ll be the first to tell you he is FUNNY! Tickets and more information on all Las Vegas shows available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm

We gave the http://www.accessvegas.com main page a much needed makeover. Now you can see hotel specials and coming headliners at a glance, as well as our featured shows. We are redesigning the entire site offline, and in April the new look will debut, make it much easier to find all of the information we now offer across our hundreds of pages of info. Thanks for your patience!

I finally made it up to The Ghostbar at the new Palms resort. With so much to do, see, and cover here it takes a while to get around to everything! Picture a very trendy (and very expensive) L.A. style lounge with a great view of Las Vegas. Dress to impress and be prepared for a $10-20 cover charge and $10 drinks, but worth one visit. You might want to go on a weeknight to avoid the heavy crowds. The Palms is one of our “special value” hotels this month — details at http://www.accessvegas.com

Thanks to reader Amy Hollon for her great article this month on The Mirage. We do accept article submissions, and pay a nominal fee for publication.

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

* Reno: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&Dest=RNO
* Atlantic City: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=ACY
* Gulfport / Biloxi: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=BIL
* $100 Rebate Spectacular: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm

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The Mirage: A Casino With An “Illusive Imagination”

By Amy Hollon

A magical and most inspiring casino waiting to demonstrate their secrets to the wondering minds from all over the world. Visit the Mirage in Las Vegas. What are you waiting for? Las Vegas has many great bargains going on right now!

SPECTACULAR ROOMS: The Mirage hotel guest rooms are fabulous! Offering great views of Las Vegas, the pool, mountains and more. All the rooms are elegant, using the finest of everything from fabrics to rugs to wallpaper and accessories, lamps and pictures hanging on the walls. What more could anyone ask for? Guest Room rates vary by time and season. Check prices and availability online at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm

SIEGFRIED AND ROY: They are the most famous “masters of the universe” magicians, waiting to entertain us along with their beautiful white tigers. Their love for all animals is known to all of us, all over the world. Their professional skills and performances are a rewarding work of art. Lots of precious time spent with their tigers and lions and training them to perfection is truly seen through all their shows. What love and admiration they give to us all.

Performance show times: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., Sunday and Monday 7:30 p.m., Dark on Wednesday and Thursday. You can check ticket price and availability at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&id=25 This show sells out well ahead of time so if you can get tickets for the dates of your visit, grab them!

THE MIRAGE AQUARIUM: This wonder is filled with sharks and tropical fishes. The aquarium holds up to 20,000 gallons of water. That is a lot of water? You will see it when you enter the hotel registry at the Mirage, located in behind the front desk!

SECRET GARDEN OF SIEGFRIED AND ROY: A sanctuary full of exotic creatures, white tigers, white lions and Asian elephants, where they can live comfortably. Watch these animals on stage performing along with their masters Siegfried and Roy, as they appear and disappear right before your very eyes. The Secret Garden was created as a place where these animals could live free from danger. This is also where one may learn and observe and listen to their exotic creatures.

Siegfried & Roy have their very own website at http://www.siegfriedandroy.com with interesting stories they share about their animals and their love for them.

Dolphin Habitat is another great magical place, where one can take a tour throughout the day. You will be able to see the Bottlenose dolphins swimming and jumping and just having a fun time in the pool. The AccessVegas.Com review of “Secret Garden” and the dolphin habitat with photos is available at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/seigfried-roy-tigers-dolphins.htm

LET’S EAT! The finest place for dining is the “Moongate.” Here you will fine an elegant taste of Chinese atmosphere. The beautiful designs and the surroundings were all very carefully chosen. They offer a Sushi bar. Also serving their traditional Teppan yaki.

Everybody favorite, The Mirage Buffet serves a variety and tasty foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast $8.95, Lunch $9.95, Dinner $14.95. Prices may vary.

Other great places to eat:

* The California Pizza Kitchen is great for the kids, with plenty of pizza on hand to feed those hungry mouths. So what’s it going to be, Pepperoni or Cheese?

* Caribe CafÚ, there is nothing like the smelling of fresh brew coffee in the morning or late at night. They are opened 24 hours.

* The Noodle Kitchen offers tasty mouth watering barbecue ribs, duck, won ton and more. They have the best barbecue ribs. Try them out.

* Kokomo’s serve excellent seafood and steak! T bone, sirloin with potatoes and vegetables!

* Renoir a 5 star French Cuisine restaurant, where food is created by Chef Alessandro Stratta and is open only for dinner and a fine, elegant place to eat. Reserve Renoir online to guarantee that memorable dinner: http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&restid=14 Restaurants of this caliber often are reserved well ahead of time.

* Mikado serves Japanese food those of you wanting a change in taste dissolving in your mouth. Try the Sushi.

* Finally, for the Italian lovers, have you heard about Onda? They are a must — try their food out when visiting the Mirage. Open only for Dinner.

* The Roasted Bean is an excellent place for fresh coffee, pastries, espresso, and cappuccinos.

The Mirage Hotel & Casino is located at: 3400 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109. More information and room prices / availability at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm

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EVENT LISTINGS:

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

GIVEAWAY:

McCormick and Schmick’s – We have a $50 gift certificate to give away for this spectacular seafood house, located just a few blocks from the Strip on Restaurant Row (Flamingo and Paradise). Entry information in the February 2002 All Vegas TV show at http://tv.accessvegas.com

FEEDBACK:

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

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

ENJOY THE BEACH! – We know many of our friends in the midwest and southeast are familiar with the beautiful suger-white sands of Destin / Panama City Beach and Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you aren’t, you should be! These beaches are closer and less expensive than other parts of Florida and continue to be ranked among the best in the world. Get the same great discount rates we offer for Florida also! Learn more about this spectacular area and get your FREE beach scenes screensaver http://www.beautifuldestin.com

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
February 6, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 22, 2002

Posted on January 22, 2002October 1, 2014 by admin

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

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

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

Thanks to those of you who noticed I was missing the past few weeks. It’s been crazy, and I have a couple of VERY exciting things to tell you about.

First, we’ve launched All Vegas TV! Now you can go to http://tv.accessvegas.com and SEE Las Vegas anywhere in the world you can get online. Our February 2002 show features Guggenheim — Art of the Motorcycle (at The Venetian), a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour video, and the uncut version of Las Vegas New Year’s Eve 2001 fireworks show. Future episodes include a Wolfgang Puck interview, a wedding chapel feature (with a big giveaway … stay tuned for that one), and much more. Enjoy!

New Year’s Eve was incredible! 265,000 people packed the Strip to watch $500,000 worth of fireworks like up the sky non-stop for a full seven minutes. The fireworks were shot off from all four miles of the Strip, so there wasn’t a bad view anywhere! With all due respect to New York City for what they have been through, let’s do a little comparison:

Weather at midnight:

New York City: 24 degrees
Las Vegas: 42 degrees

Waiting factor:

New York City: Reports of people arriving 18 hours early to get a decent spot.
Las Vegas: I parked my car on the street 2 blocks from the Strip at 6 PM. (No … I’m not giving that spot away, LOL). Not one of the 265,000 people had a bad spot for fireworks viewing.

Party Factor:

New York City: Zero alcohol tolerance
Las Vegas: They were selling half gallon buckets (I kid you not) of beer right on the street. As long as it was in plastic, drink up!

Don’t take my word for the above — go view our New Year’s Eve bonus footage at http://tv.accessvegas.com/videos/attractions/index.htm#nye-2001 (not part of this month’s regular program). We’ll see you next year here in Las Vegas!

Valentine’s Day falls on a Thursday this year. If you are looking to whisk that special lady away to Las Vegas for the weekend, I’d book ASAP as hotels are filling up quickly. Check our rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm — our hotel partners buy rooms in bulk, in advance and thus can usually offer a better deal than contacting the hotel directly.

Congratulations to Rick Thomas on receiving the Academy of Magical Arts “Magician of the Year” award. Rick’s afternoon show at the Tropicana is value-priced but well worth seeing. My review and ticket info at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/rick-thomas-magic-las-vegas-shows.htm

“Vegas Showgirls: Nearly Famous” is the new series on E! Entertainment Television (cable network) which follows four showgirls and two males through their daily lives both on and off the stage. Airing Monday night, check local listings for time.

We saw the new show Tease playing at Blue Note Showroom (Aladdin) and it was a lot of fun. It’s a very sexy musical comedy centered on the lives of dancers and other employees at a fictional strip club. There is enough jiggle for the guys (the show is just shy of topless — pasties are used), enough hunky actors for the ladies, and comedy that both will enjoy. Check ticket availability and prices at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5&showid=334 Well worth seeing!

Driving here from both Southern California and Phoenix is going to get easier over the next couple of years! Interstate 15 is being widened to 3 lanes (each way) all the way to the NV / CA border, and Nevada is working with California to expedite lane expansion on other parts of the route.

Those coming from Phoenix can celebrate: Right now, much of the drive is two lane road plus the long, winding path over Hoover Dam. Over the next two years, 50 miles of US 93 is being widened to 5 lanes, and straightened to accommodate a 65 mile per hour speed. 2005 will see the completion of the Hoover Dam bypass, a 4 lane road and bridge over the Colorado south of the dam.

Citizens Area Transit (CAT) Las Vegas bus system is offering service to from the Las Vegas Strip to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for NASCAR races this year. Full details at http://www.rtc.co.clark.nv.us/cat/special/racepass-2.htm (Yes, the info is current — in the first paragraph, they mistakenly noted the dates from last year).

The cab drivers are still screwing you over. Despite a court order not to divert you (hard sell you a destination other than your own, or take you the “long way”), they keep doing it. Why my beef with the cabbies? Twice (out of 4 rides in the resort corridor) in the past two years I have personally been taken a longer way when traffic and the time of day didn’t warrant it. Not even close.

Review-Journal “Road Warrior” Michael Squires did a recent undercover story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jan-20-Sun-2002/news/17906018.html As usual, my advice is to rent a car. The price of a few cab rides (especially ones that take the “long way”) will easily cover your rental, and you can go where you want on a whim.

Las Vegas is a hotbed of magic, and prominent local magicians Denny Haney and the husband/wife team Scott and Jenny Alexander have opened Denny and Lee Magic studios. Visit them in Las Vegas at 5115 S. Industrial #104 or online at http://www.dennymagic.com

A quick tip of the hat to an acquaintance of mine, Larry Ahrens. Much of New Mexico has woken up to him on top-rated KKOB 770 AM for two decades, and he’s tossing his hat into the ring for governor. More info at http://www.votelarry.com

Free beach screensaver! It’s my pleasure to tell you about a comprehensive site I just completed for one of my favorite tourism destinations: Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you think of South Beach, Palm Beach, Tampa or other crowded, high-priced areas when someone says Florida, visit http://www.beautifuldestin.com and get aquatinted with the Florida that is closer, less expensive, more beautiful, and less crowded. We have information, photos, and streaming videos. The free beach screensaver at http://www.beautifuldestin.com/free-streaming-videos-screensaver.htm

LAS VEGAS NEWS, INFO, and SPECIALS:

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for January / February:

* Sahara — from $35.95 until 02/28/02
* Palms Casino Resort — from $59.95 until 02/28/02
* Fiesta Rancho Hotel Casino — from $29.95 until 02/28/02

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

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

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

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

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

GIVEAWAY:

McCormick and Schmick’s — We have a $50 gift certificate to give away for this spectacular seafood house, located just a few blocks from the Strip on Restaurant Row (Flamingo and Paradise). Entry information in the February 2002 All Vegas TV show at http://tv.accessvegas.com

FEEDBACK:

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
January 22, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 7, 2001

Posted on March 7, 2001October 1, 2014 by admin

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in 45 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

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

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

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Featured Travel Deals: http://www.accessvegas.com/traveldeals.htm
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/airline.htm

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: EFX Alive

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: mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

EDITORS NOTE: It is a beautiful 74 and sunny here today after two weeks of mostly clouds and a number of days of actual rain. Two huge sporting events brought the spotlight to Las Vegas again this weekend: The NASCAR race as well as Holyfield vs. Ruiz made for a crowded weekend and sold out hotels.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

RED DRAGON – If you have been in town past couple of weeks, you might have seen the new marquee of the Desert Inn aglow in neon reading “Red Dragon,” new red paint of the front of the building, and a flurry of activity out front looking like a casino grand opening. Truth be told, the film “Rush Hour 2” starring Jackie Chan has been shooting. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-05-Mon-2001/living/15561779.html

STORM – Billed as a “combination live concert event, Broadway theatre experience, and Las Vegas dance spectacular,” this new show at Mandalay Bay opens March 22. The creative mind behind the show has worked with Britney Spears, American Music Awards, Ricky Martin, Madonna, Prince, and more. Band members have played with Ricky Martin and others. We saw 3 numbers at a media preview Tuesday, and the show looks like it has quite a bit of potential. One number features rain on stage, and actual (very light) snow falls on the audience later.

If you go see storm, I suggest sitting toward the back left side (as you face the stage) as one number has the singer suspended over the right side of the audience and another has extensive acrobatic action taking place over the most of the lower section. Until a full show review, I can’t say whether it is worth the $55 / $65 ticket price, but the show is heavily Latin influenced (including at least one number all in Spanish) so take your music and culture tastes into consideration.

NASCAR – Jeff Gordon took the lead with 20 laps to go at last weekend’s race at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Stories about the race at:

http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-05-Mon-2001/sports/15572223.html http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-05-Mon-2001/sports/15573697.html http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-05-Mon-2001/sports/15573720.html http://www.suntimes.com/output/racing/nascar05.html http://www.usatoday.com/usatonline/20010305/3111284s.htm http://seattlep-i.nwsource.com/motorsports/auto053.shtml

THE MEXICAN – the new movie release (both partially shot and set in Las Vegas) is drawing some pretty nice reviews, one of which is at http://news.excite.com/news/uw/010301/entertainment-film-106

JOHN RUIZ – defeated Evander Holyfield to become the new World Boxing Association champ last Saturday night at Mandalay Bay. Word is that he will fight Mike Tyson next. Stories at:

http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-05-Mon-2001/sports/15571168.html http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-04-Sun-2001/sports/15569525.html http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-04-Sun-2001/sports/15570334.html http://www.sltrib.com/03042001/sports/76587.htm

BRITNEY – Ms. Spears is going to turn her Nov. 18’th concert (much later this year) into a live HBO concert. Story at http://www.billboard.com/daily/2001/0302_05.asp No ticket info available yet.

PLAYGROUND IN MY MIND – I’d tell you that this #1 hit from 1974 sung by (now) Harrah’s showroom entertainer Clint Holmes is readily found on Napster, but that would be wrong of me to encourage downloading it for free. However, if you can’t find it for sale anywhere, and are curious …

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Blue Man Group – http://www.reason.com/0103/cr.sr.big.html
* De La Guarda – http://www.latimes.com/news/asection/20010304/t000019008.html

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

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

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* India Oven (just west of The Sahara) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-02-Fri-2001/weekly/15529699.html

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

Friday – 68 ░F / 46 ░F Mostly Cloudy
Saturday – 62 ░F / 38 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 65 ░F / 40 ░F Scattered Showers
Monday – 70 ░F / 42 ░F Mostly Sunny
Thursday – 74 ░F / 45 ░F Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: EFX Alive

“Jesse was a friend …” sang Rick Springfield all over the radio during my high school years, and I was a fan of guitar driven rock. I think I still have a couple of his tapes somewhere. Almost 20 years later, Springfield is the latest star of the MGM’s spectacular EFX show taking over the reigns from Broadway legend Tommy Tune (who replaced teen idol David Cassidy, who replaced Michael Crawford). I’m sure they were after the very positive response David Cassidy got from audiences during his two year stint, but they goofed.

The show itself is still spectacular and one of the better staged shows for the money. Sal Salangsang does a hilarious pre-show warm-up (get seated 15 minutes early) and they have added him in a couple small parts throughout the show for comic relief. The trapeze artists in the P. T. Barnum act have been replaced with a dazzling act called “The Sphere” where a number of athletic circus performers hang and twist from a giant rotating sphere.

The Merlin act with the large animatronic dragons, fire, explosions, and great stunt work are still fantastic. The Houdini segment (the one act where Springfield shines as the infamous magician coming back from the dead for a momentary reuniting with his wife) contains the thrill of a great magic act woven into a touching story. And, the H. G. Wells act continues to contain the best 3-D film performance I have ever viewed.

The problem? Springfield. He practically sleepwalks through the first part of the Merlin act, where the lead flashes back to his childhood reminiscing about the expanse of life as well as bad dreams. Previous performers brought a contemplative, childlike feeling to it. Springfield might as well have been reading it off of cue cards. His acting throughout the rest of this act gives us an indication why his movie career never took off.

He redeemed himself in the Houdini segment. His soap opera experience served him well in the love scene and he played it in a heartfelt manner that would have been nice to see earlier. Maybe a rocker can’t play out a child’s fantasy. Unfortunately, we now know that a rocker can’t sing show tunes. Springfield’s voice is great for guitar heavy, rough singing but his limited range and raspy vocal qualities struggle on many of the songs (many of which have stayed with the show regardless of who plays the lead).

The low point? While he is in the audience during one number, he meets a “fan” whom he invites down on stage. This isn’t new — it has been a staple of EFX for quite some time. The “fan” is an audience plant who is “thrilled” to be meeting the star. In this case, the “fan” even has Springfield use her cell phone to call a friend at home who couldn’t believe what was happening. This bit plays on too long this time around and is so phony that a number of colleagues who were seeing the show for the first time could see it is fake. If you go, this is a perfect time to take a restroom break. Any time would be a perfect time for them to toss this bit and have Springfield take a little concert break and perform two or three of his hits. He does perform “The Human Touch” earlier in the show.

All is not lost. The basic tenants of the show are still spellbinding, from the huge stage sets to the amazingly creative “circus of the future” costumes to the effects which the show derives it’s name from. I last reviewed the show almost a year ago (archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-04-26.htm ), and my comments about the core show still hold true. At the basic price, EFX still delivers the most bang (literally) for the buck in it’s category. And, the standing ovation that Springfield received from women in the audience who probably went to high school about the same time I did suggest a dimension that I am not equipped to appreciate.

EFX Ticket Info

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Julie wrote:

>My fiance and I are trying to plan a wedding for November of 2001 in
>Vegas.á Anyone out here have any tips as to chapels included in a
>hotel?á We will be coming from Wisconsin, with about 20 couples and
>still have not found decent airfare.á We were told November is the
>least expensive month in Vegas.á I would appreciate any help I can get
>to pull this off.á Thanks a lot.

November is the month of Comdex (usually second week of the month) and Thanksgiving weekend, both bringing sold out hotels and high prices. Plus, with the winter months really kicking in up north, many are looking to escape the cold. If you are still flexible, try every different set of arrival and departure days you can make work in your quest for low airfare. Obviously, the sooner you book the better. While I hate to turn away business, a travel agent might be able to arrange a group rate for hotel and air for a party that large and do your research for you.

A few months ago, we queried our readers who got married in Las Vegas, and were flooded with responses which we posted at http://www.accessvegas.com/wedding-stories.htm With so many thousands of new readers on board, this is a good time to point that page out!

Patricia and Doug Davis wrote:

>Can you tell me where we might find the Las Vegas Show Girls (the ones
>like you used to see on TV way back when)?á This is our first trip and
>we would like to see the costumes and pretty ladies dancing on stage.
>I can’t find anything like what I’m thinking about on the web.á I can
>find “ladies in drag,” but we would like to see something like the
>original Vegas Ladies, with their pretty clothes, headdresses, etc.

We have you covered! The two traditional Las Vegas shows left featuring what you describe are Jubilee at Bally’s and Follies Bergere at the Tropicana. Splash at the Riviera and American Superstars (one of the best show values in town) both feature showgirls but not to the same extent. We have archived newsletters with reviews of each:

Jubilee – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-26.htm
Follies Bergere – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-29.htm
Splash – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-09-27.htm
American Superstars – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-11-08.htm

Zachary Lee wrote:

>First off, thanks for running a great newsletter, it’s given me a lot
>of great ideas for my upcoming visit to the city of lights.á I just
>had a few questions before i go out there on the 16’th of march thru
>the 21st.á My friend and I love a good blues club- y’know dark, good
>ambiance, and a great blues band to top it off.á We heard about
>Aladdin’s blue note, but I was wondering if you thought it was best.
>If not, how about some suggestions?á Also, we plan to go to a few
>nightclubs.á We heard the voodoo lounge, drink, and Rumjungle were
>good, but again we were wondering what you thought.á Any tips you’ve
>got are well received here.

I have not yet been to Blue Note, but hear it is worth checking out. They have name acts virtually every single night, so expect to pay a concert ticket price. Let us know your impressions if you go! As for nightclubs, The Drink caters to a younger, crazier crowd, Rumjungle has the “beautiful people” (and a line to match at the door) and Voodoo lounge is upscale and a little more subdued but with possibly the best view in town. All are worth checking out — go to the one or two that would be the best fit for you.

Lorrie wrote:

>I hear there is a restaurant designed by Steven Spielberg called the
>Dive.á Supposed to look like a submarine and every so often they’re
>supposed to have pretend submerges.á My husband was a submariner.á We
>are going to Las Vegas in 2 weeks.á How is the food, etc.?á Lorrie

The Dive sunk (closed) last December. Interesting surroundings, great location, but overpriced food (that wasn’t very good).

Tony Padula wrote:

>Hi, Just returned from my annual 2 week stay in Vegas, and had the
>unpleasant experience of getting ill, thought I too had the flu, and
>when not able to shake the feeling decided to visit the emergency room
>at the University Hospital on Charleston.á What an experience that
>waiting room was at 11 o’clock at night.á I wouldn’t recommend it to
>anyone who can afford to see a private doctor.á The wait was an
>experience, but I must say once I got inside, the doctor, who turned
>out to be a practicing nurse (whatever that is), and the other staff
>members were very pleasant and comforting.á I guess I’m getting too
>old to handle 2 weeks in Las Vegas, probably not being a big gambler,
>got sick losing the little bit of money I did gamble away.á They must
>find a way to eliminate the traffic problems they are experiencing
>there.á A bus ride on the strip is an ever ending adventure of stop
>and go, with red lights, jay walkers, and cars.á You really get a long
>ride (time wise), for your $2.00.á Speaking of good buys for your
>money, Stardust has a $2.00 off coupon on 4 very good meal items.
>Westward Ho has a nickel cup of very good coffee, plus a 75 cent foot
>long hot dog, plus other great items, Klondike has a very inexpensive
>food menu, with 10 cent roulette.á As you can see as a visitor with
>limited spending ability, I was able to find all the better deals that
>the normal 4 or 5 day tourist isn’t looking for.
>
>áá I enjoy your newsletter.á Keep up the good work.

University Medical Center is a highly rated hospital, but it is also a public hospital which can mean long waits for illness that isn’t life threatening while they treat the latest gangbanger who got shot. As for transportation, the monorail is coming but for now you have a tradeoff: the bus is cheap, but very slow. Taxis aren’t cheap at all. Rental cars are a good option when time is more important than money plus you can take all the back roads.

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

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. 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.

BLUE MAN GROUP – is sending one lucky winner and a friend to the end of the Las Vegas strip to see the show that TIME Magazine calls, “a milestone… the hippest show in Vegas.”

Grand Prize includes:

Round trip air transportation for two to Vegas.
Two nights stay at the Luxor Las Vegas.
Two tickets to Blue Man Group – Live at Luxor.

Five additional winners will receive Blue Man Group merchandise packages including Blue Man Group’s debut album, AUDIO, in DVD 5.1 Surround Sound Mix!

Enter at http://www.blueman.com/feature/entercontest.shtml

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ONLINE POLL – Who (if anyone) do you come to Las Vegas with? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published soon! (There is a glitch in the software, and we can’t change the question this week.)

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
March 7, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 30, 2000

Posted on August 30, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews, the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it!

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: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Curious about a restaurant, event, 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:

HARRAH’S – has done it right with their Carnival Court! This outdoor bar and grill at the south end of the property is a fantastic place to relax with friends and enjoy some live music seven days a week. They have moved Cook E. Jarr down there from the Improv room upstairs (a great move, and one we suggested back in May at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-05-17.htm ). You can catch his show for free at midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and more info on Cook E. Jarr is at http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr Next suggestion for one of the resorts: How about a permanent open-air club around a water setting like you find in many other beach and resort spots?

END OF THE INN – Gone. Done. History. The doors of the Desert Inn are locked shut, and the next wave of casino building planned will involve the north end of the Strip, with the Frontier and Desert Inn both slated for destruction and new resort construction at dates not yet announced. Hotel closing story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-29-Tue-2000/news/14261089.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/news/14230478.html

TOP 5! – Frommer’s just published their Top 10 Travel list at http://www.frommers.com/features/articles/0008_2a.html Of note: The Orleans Hotel here in Las Vegas was rated America’s 3’rd best budget hotel, Laughlin, NV was rated the 5’th cheapest city for vacation, and our partners Hotel Reservations Network were ranked the 4’th best hotel discounter. Specific info on each:

Orleans Hotel – http://www.accessvegas.com/hotels/orleans-hotel-las-vegas-hotel-reservations.htm
Laughlin – http://www.accessvegas.com/laughlin-nevada-hotels-nv.htm
Hotel Reservations Network – http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

SUMMER IS OVER! – While that may not be the best news in much of the world, we are looking forward to beautiful fall days with shirtsleeve weather in the daytime and cool evenings (not to mention seeing our electric bills drop). If your good weather is starting to wane, no time like the present to come enjoy ours! Current Las Vegas forecast is at http://www.weather.com/weather/us/zips/89121.html

RESTAURANTS – A host of Las Vegas restaurant reviews have hit the press the past couple of weeks:

All American Bar & Grill (at the Rio) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/07_27_00/dining_taste.html
Grand Lux Cafe – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
Orleans Buffet – http://www.e-vegas.net/display/article.asp?article=725
The Tillerman (Paradise Rd.) – http://www.scopemag.com/departments/08_17_00/dining_taste.html

COINLESS SLOTS – In a recent poll and feedback, most of you came out overwhelmingly against coinless slots. The soon-to-open The Suncoast Hotel & Casino in NW Las Vegas is opening soon and most of their slots will be coinless. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/000821/18/leisure-slots While they are counting on it being a hit with locals, industry insiders conjecture (as our poll noted) that tourist wouldn’t warm up to them. For those wondering, we generally don’t cover news involving outlying casinos because the percentage of tourists who make their way away from the Strip or downtown are minute.

$5 FREE GAS – If you drive to town, the 76 station next to Monte Carlo has a coupon for $5 free gas with a $10 purchase. Print the coupon out at http://www.strip76.com/coupon.htm

KARAOKE – The NASCAR Cafe in The Sahara has joined perennial favorite Ellis Island Casino (on Koval, just behind Bally’s) as a hot spot for Karaoke in Las Vegas. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-15-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14151067.html

BEHIND THE SCENES – The Review-Journal did a rare sneak-peak at all that goes into making Mystere a constant sellout at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-22-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14079348.html

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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?cscheme=5&amid=143

THE SCORPIONS – The long-surviving heavy metal band is touring playing symphony shows in selected cities including Las Vegas (see Aladdin listing below). Full story at http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/000824/story6.html

SPARKS IN THE PARK – at Desert Breeze Park (Spring Mountain and Durango, far west side of town) features Jon Secada and Michael McDonald as well as food and fireworks this Sat. Sept. 2 from 3-9 PM. Tickets are $10 adult, $5 children and can be purchased at the gate.

Aladdin – Peabo Bryson, Sept. 4-9, The Guess Who on Sept. 9, Chick Corea Sept. 11-16, Iron Maiden, Queensryche, and Halford on Sept. 17, Scorpians w/ Nevada Festival Symphony Orchestra on Sept. 23, Pat Metheny Sept. 25-30, David Sanborn Joe Sample, Counting Crows Oct. 2, Jo Dee Messina on Oct. 6, Richard Bona and Brian Blade Oct. 2-7, Greg Allman Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 13-15, Dr. John Oct. 16-21, Roberta Flack Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 26-28, Afro Cuban All-Stars Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Chuck Mangione Dec. 4-9. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – The Cult on Sept. 2, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, John Haitt on Sept. 9, Don Henley Oct. 10, 311 Oct. 11, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – Howie Mandel Sept. 1-3, Reba McEntire Sept. 14-17, Kenny Rogers Sept. 22-23, Engelbert Humperdinck Sept. 26 – October 1, Face To Face Sept. 30, Steven Wright Oct. 7-8, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman in their “Together Again” tour Oct. 19-21 (return engagement), Sinbad Nov. 2-4, Jeff Foxworthy Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, and Brooks & Dunn Dec. 4-6. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

Mandalay Bay – Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Fishbone on Sept. 9, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Hank Williams III on Sept. 21, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Alice Cooper on Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, Kenny G on Sept. 30, Tonic on Oct. 6, Tiger Jam III (a fundraiser concert for the Tiger Woods Foundation) features Christina Aguilara, Leann Rimes, and Seal on Oct. 7, Peter Frampton Oct. 13, and Moe on Oct. 15. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Rita Rudner now – Sept. 4, Tom Jones Aug. 10-23, Sting on Aug. 19, David Copperfield Aug. 24-30, Tony winning show Cabaret Aug. 30 – Sept. 3, Rodney Dangerfield Aug. 31- Sept. 6, Carrot Top Sept. 7 – 13, Shaolin Monks on Sept. 20-28, Jimmy Buffet on Sept. 29, Frozen Fury 4 pits the L.A. Kings against the Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, U.S. Open of Supercross Oct. 14-15, Pearl Jam on Oct. 22, and Tina Turner with Joe Cocker Nov. 18. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Riviera – Tommy Chong & Bobcat Goldthwait Sept. 1, 2, and 3, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, Jerry Lewis Sept. 7-10, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

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FEATURE STORY: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Legalized Las Vegas sports betting and America’s love of our football makes the fall one of the most exciting times of year here and this year won’t be any different. Monday Night Football is a Las Vegas tradition. From the little corner bars to the big casino sportsbooks, tens of thousands gather to put a few bucks on a team they might not even care about, drink beer, and whoop and holler for their team.

While virtually every casino and bar has some kind of Monday Night Football promotion, here are some notable ones. All are free unless noted, and remember that Monday Night Football starts at 6 PM on the west coast, so get there early to get a good seat and your share of the freebies:

BARLEY’S – This one is away from the tourism areas, but in one of the nicer parts of town and too good a party to ignore: 8′ TV screens, $1.00 12 oz. microbrews, $1.00 pizza, hot dogs, and nachos, and giveaways during every commercial breaks. Barley’s is at 4500 E. Sunset Rd — about a 15-20 minute drive from the Strip.

THE BEACH – Over 40 TV’s including 3 big screens in their 24 hour sportsbar. No cover and a complimentary all-you-can-eat buffet features hamburgers, hot dogs, wings, potato/pasta salads, etc. Beer and shot specials are served by their bikini beauties. Also, prizes and giveaways.

CIRCUS CIRCUS – Their Skyrise Sports Lounge shows the game on a 20′ x 15′ movie screen. The Miller Girls are present, and $3.95 Miller beer specials (that’s a special?!?!?) include a collectible 16 oz. team logo pilsner glass.

FIESTA – holds the party in Roxy’s and features all-u-can-eat pizza, first beer is free, cash prizes, and more. 12′ big screen and over 400 balcony seats. Admission is $6.95 and you must be 21.

HOLY COW – on the Strip across from The Sahara features special food, drink, and raffle prizes during each game as well as a cash bonus on 4-of-a-kind video poker hands during the game (rules are at the cage — I imagine you must be playing the machine max cards, no wild cards).

MAIN ST. STATION – Drawings from cash and prizes each quarter, parlay cards, and food and drink specials. Party held in the brewpub.

PLAZA – The Girls of Glitter Gulch host this party. A $10 betting ticket gets you a free Vienna hot dog, you can watch the game on a giant 9′ x 12′ screen, and they have drawings for prizes and $550 cash.

RIO – Club Rio puts the game on their huge ten foot screens that line the wall and features beer, food, cheerleaders, and prizes. They say you can “win awesome prizes, play video games, smoke fine cigars, and enjoy great food and drink.”

VACATION VILLAGE – Free giveaways every quarter, free parlay card ($200 possible win), free stadium food (peanuts, popcorn, cracker jacks), 50 cent Bud drafts, 50 cent hot dogs, half-time armchair quarterback contest, and ladies drink free in Kookoo’s Bar from 5-10 PM.

Because the majority of Las Vegans are people who relocated from other parts of the country, and we lack our own NFL team, many local bars have “adopted” specific NFL teams (often because the bar owners or management are from that part of the country). These bars not only pledge to show every single game of their specific team, but have food and drink specials as well as giveaways during each game.

The Review Journal just published their yearly detailed list of these bars at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14123757.html You are almost guaranteed a crowd of people from the “home town” for each game.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Marty & Becky Papke wrote:

>We appreciate your newsletter.á I would like to ask a question to the
>readers and yourself.á We are planning a trip to Las Vegas Dec.á 3
>thru the 8’th which is the National Rodeo Finals week and we would like
>to know what entertainers – will be performing.á If there is a link
>that shows this information, please send the information to us.á We
>also would like to know the details of Sam’s Town construction I had
>heard they are having a grand opening at end of November and will be
>having special entertainers celebrating.á Can you also let us know
>this information.á Thanks for the help!á Really appreciate your
>newsletter.

Continue to both follow our newsletter as well as checking the Events page at http://www.accessvegas.com/events.htm as the time gets closer. I usually don’t report on off-strip properties, but do make an exception for Sam’s Town and NFR because of Sam’s Town’s historically country theme. The renovations are moving along nicely and we will have a report on their plans for NFR as soon as they become known.

Roger Radjeski of Seminole, Florida wrote:

>Only 15 minutes west of Vegas is Red Rock Canyon.á For a mere $5.00
>you can drive your car on the trail and stop and explore the
>wilderness, mountains and canyons.á One hour away is Hoover Dam, and
>two and a half hours away is Death Valley.á What a waste our trip
>would have been had we not gone these places.á Oh yes we did visit the
>”old Strip” for a $4.99 prime rib and a walk in the covered mall.á The
>thing that bothered me the most was the smoking.á There are “NO NON
>SMOKING AREAS!”á What a shame to be polluted by Second Hand Smoke!
>Glad that the tip we left for the girl that cleaned our room for three
>days was more than we spent in all gambling, $5.oo.á The pan handlers
>were a real bother, luckily none seemed to have any identification on
>them that they were willing to show me.á They didn’t get anything from
>me but a “NO!”á Oh yes, we also went to the mountains, a ski area is
>only 2 hours north.á Many people visit Vegas, and miss the Real
>Sights!

With so much to do on the Strip and downtown, we tend not to spend a lot of time covering other activities this area offers because most people aren’t interested in exploring. However, we are finishing a Hoover Dam report, and people that are on their 4’th or 5’th Las Vegas visits often do rent a car to go explore some of the natural and man made wonders. We do maintain a list of Non-Gambling Attractions at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm

With Las Vegas, you take the good with the bad. Those from areas where every little aspect of life is regulated might find it bothersome that we don’t have tighter smoking laws and the like. But, Las Vegas is very much determined by supply and demand: if smoke bothers you (I am a nonsmoker but have learned to live with the air in some of the casinos), patronize those properties you feel have the cleanest air.

David N. of Panama City, FL wrote:

>Ted: I don’t know about balconies on the Strip, but for a panoramic
>view, I don’t think anything could top the one my wife and I had on
>our first visit: high up the Plaza tower, facing south toward the
>Stratosphere and Strip.á Fantastic!

Karolina from Chicago, IL wrote:

>I have to say that I really enjoy reading the Review and I’m always
>looking forward to it.á I will be in Vegas Sept.á 23-27 and would
>love to see a concert, but sadly nothing that would interest me is
>going on (I’m a 24 year old female who doesn’t like rap or country.)
>As for one of the letters from the readers, I have to say that Denny’s
>(next to MGM) really sucks.á The service is horrible, I also had to
>get my own refills and when I asked them to heat up the syrup for my
>pancakes, they said that they cannot do that!á Finally after I got to
>talk to a manager, he took care of it but commented that they aren’t
>supposed to be doing that…á What’s up with that?á Otherwise my
>memories are pleasant and just wanted to say “hello” to all the
>readers!

I too appreciate the comfort of eating at places we are familiar with. On my recent FL trip, I was tempted to do the “tried and true” but instead dined at restaurants that were unique to the area and I challenge visitors to Las Vegas to do the same. While this is a broad generalization, workers at the chain franchises are usually at the lowest end of the scale.

The casinos tend to pay better, provide better benefits, etc., and you are more likely to get better food and service in hotel restaurants, even if it’s just the coffee shop. (The food courts generally don’t count — they are franchised out.) Plus, keep your eyes open — many hotels have some pretty good food specials advertised on their reader boards outside and signs throughout the property!

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Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Please include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc., if accepted.

ONLINE POLL – “Who and when do you tip on a big slot win?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent 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.

DROOG.COM – is sending one person plus three friends to push the detonator on an actual implosion here in Las Vegas (rumors are still circulating which building is getting imploded, but we will let you know the minute we know). Go to http://www.droog.com and click on the DETONATE link to enter.

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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 You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

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.
August 30, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 26, 2000

Posted on April 26, 2000September 29, 2014 by admin

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

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

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

* Discount Hotel Rooms – All Cities: http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas
* Discount Rental Cars – All Cities: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* 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: EFX

Curious about a restaurant, event, 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:WYNN BUYS DESERT INN – If you use http://www.accessvegas.com as your “start page”, you already know that former Mirage Resorts founder Steve Wynn has purchased the Desert Inn. He apparently is to buy it “out of pocket” from the money he’s making in the sale of Mirage Resorts to MGM, having complete ownership. We have an ongoing poll asking if you have been to the Desert Inn and are you going to go (or return) now that Steve Wynn owns it at at http://www.accessvegas.com Breaking story at http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2000/apr/27/510187496.html Also, we are giving away a Desert Inn 50’th birthday section from the local paper in our contests section.

NELLIS AIR SHOW – from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 6, will feature the Air Force’s aerial demonstration team from Nellis, the Thunderbirds; a Canadian parachute team, the Skyhawks; and Air Combat Command’s A-10 Warthog demonstration team. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-26-Wed-2000/news/13449412.html

STREET SMARTS – The syndicated game show set to hit the air has been filming in and around Las Vegas. Contestants in a Southern California studio will try to guess what “everyday Las Vegans” (actually mostly hotel employees) will say. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-24-Mon-2000/lifestyles/13424211.html

SPORTS BETTING – We are following and feel strongly about the attempts to ban betting. Dan Woolford of the Toledo Blade wrote an interesting piece on the issue at http://www.toledoblade.com/editorial/woolford/0d22wool.htm A related story about how much illegal bookmakers are looking forward to passage of this legislation at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-24-Mon-2000/business/13427791.html

NASCAR CAFE – The Review Journal just did a story on it with an in-depth listing of the food offerings at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-26-Wed-2000/lifestyles/13413090.html and you can read our opening weekend review of the restaurant and Cyber Speedway at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-15.htm

VEGAS ON TV – This Saturday evening, TLC (The Learning Channel) will feature 3 straight hours of Las Vegas specials: King of the Strip, Las Vegas Uncovered, and The Secret World of Las Vegas. Check local listings for time and cable channel.

GOT A WEBSITE? – How about a link to https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com so you can help spread the word and access the archives easier. While at it, don’t forget to link to our sister site http://www.accessvegas.com – your first stop for the latest Las Vegas info!

WINNERS – Barb Hill of Musegon, MI won the entertainer press photos.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

MGM – Carrot Top June 22 – July 5, NHL Frozen Fury IV pits the Los Angeles Kings vs. Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, and the U.S. Open of Supercross is scheduled for October 14 and 15. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Note: Rick Springfield now stars in EFXFEATURE STORY: EFX

efx-02.jpg (24808 bytes) EFX is a true “modern day” Las Vegas show, combining elements of film, Broadway, and rock concerts to bring to life a spectacle that tingles almost every physical sense. This $45 million dollar production has 6000 lights and 85,000 watts of sound. Lasers, dragons, magic, and a floor that rumbles under you are just some of what you see and feel.

But, all this would be nothing without a great theme and great performers and EFX delivers on all counts. Broadway legend Tommy Tune was brought in to replace outgoing David Cassidy (now in his own show with Sheena Easton at the Rio) and he brings an unbelievable amount of poise, energy, and showmanship to this event. And an event it is …

Get there early. Drinks are served (not included), funny and physical stand up comedy by one of the “stagehands” keeps the crown entertained, and roving photographers let you capture the moment. I noticed it was a little warm until … the lights went down and a chill fell over the showroom. We were greeted with a stunning filmed sequence by James Earl Jones (“This is CNN”) who’s head was brought to life in 3D as he gave a booming overview of the show and storyline.

The live cast then entered. Not just onstage but from both sides high above the showroom. This is a truly encompassing experience. While much of the action is onstage, you never know from left to right or high above you where events and characters will appear.

efx-01.jpg (7085 bytes) Mr. Tune made his entrance, tophat and tails, as he was elevated to the stage for his first number “In Dreams”. His appearance is striking. At 6’6″, he almost appears to be on stilts because of his unusually long legs (the illusion aided I’m sure by good costume design). What is more amazing is the energy he has, considering his age of 61 years (Source: E! Online). It was a non-factor as he belted out strong vocals and a number specifically showcasing his mesmerizing tap dance skills.

The general theme revolved around Tommy as a child and a child’s dreams. We were treated to Merlin and King Arthur in a fiery sequence pitting humans and dragons against each other in a blaze of fire and lasers and pyro. The Circus sequence was an ode to P.T. Barnum which featured some spectacular aerial stunts by The Flying Kaganovitch.

Things were slowed down for a few minutes as Tommy did a solo question and answer segment with the audience which tonight lengthened the show by about 10 minutes as something very unusual happened (it didn’t at all seem staged).

The only thing we didn’t really like was a stages question and answer segment where a women claiming to be a former student of Tommy’s had a “heartfelt reunion.” We found out that this happens every single show. It’s an otherwise great show that doesn’t need this bit. If you have to use the restroom, the Q & A is a perfect time.

The show then was underway again with a tribute to Houdini and recreations of two of his more famous attempted escapes. Perhaps the most fun segment followed with “A Dream In Time: H.G. Wells” which featured a wide screen 3D segment (glasses and all) which segued us back in time to the caveman days and a battle for a fair maiden. Dark in the mystical woods and hills, a battle featured stunts and fireworks which had the crowd on the edge of it’s seat. Following was a traditional Las Vegas ending featuring the entire cast.

EFX clocks in at 90 minutes. Children 5 and up are welcome. This is not only an all ages show in the lack of offensive language and nudity, but has a Disney-like quality to it that all ages will enjoy.

EFX plays nightly Tuesday – Saturday at 7:30 and 10:30 PM in the at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. Tickets are $75.00 for preferred seating (booth style), $55 regular, and $40.00 for children 5-12. Discount MGM rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link) and you can book EFX tickets online before you even leave for Las Vegas for a small service fee at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

Lots of helpful responses to last week’s questions — thanks to all who wrote!LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Judy Brooks of Baltimore MD wrote:

>I just returned from two weeks in Vegas and stayed at the Four queens.
>I can only warn you, if you have another choice DON”T stay at the
>Queens.á The rooms were “ok” but the service was absolutely horrible.
>I have been to Vegas many times and was so shocked that in a town
>where exceptional service is standard, this place falls far short.
>Room service people were rude, restaurant people acted like you were
>invisible, waiting for drinks, well just forget the drinks because we
>never did get one.á When we booked we were told that we got what we
>got no choice of smoking or non and one bed or two.á The only positive
>thing was we enjoyed staying on Fremont street.

Janice wrote:

>To Ray asking about Golden Nugget – there is NO comparison downtown;
>it is a great place to stay – the rooms are very nice (ask for the
>North Tower as it’s closer to the casino and restaurants), the staff
>is friendly, and the food is great in the buffet, Stefano’s(Italian
>with singing waiters), and their coffee shop.á Never had a bad meal in
>any of these places.á We always did very well with comps and found the
>slot hosts to be very accommodating.á Only tables we ever play are
>roulette, so really can’t comment on BJ or otherwise.á We find it hard
>to stay anywhere’s else when we visit.

Dannie Kemp wrote:

>Motel 6 and the Best Western chain generally accept pets.á There are
>restrictions and some of the individual sites are “pet free”, so it is
>a good idea to check before hand.á Las Vegas has kennels if you run
>out of other options.

Steve Fadden wrote:

>Here’s where we’ve played in the past:
>
>EXCALIBUR: We’ve had great times playing $2-$6 spread limit hold’em
>here.á The dealers and hosts are great people, the players are nice,
>there’s lots of room to walk around and stretch, and the poker rates
>are reasonable for the strip.á Whenever we come to LV, we make the
>Excalibur our home base.á Decent rooms, great rates, and good
>location.á (Yes, there are kids to navigate around, but they’re not in
>the poker room.á 🙂
>
>MIRAGE: Great atmosphere, good service, and loose play.
>
>VENETIAN: They have a crazy 1-4-8-8 hold’em game here.á Not the best
>place to play if you’re a serious player, but the poker area is
>mid-casino, with a great view of much of the floor.á Great place to
>take a break from other gaming while still being in the middle of it
>all.
>
>ORLEANS: Local rock garden.á I’ve been told that this place loosens up
>at times, but have never seen it.
>
>MONTE CARLO: Good 1-4-8-8 game.á The poker room is well-appointed, and
>the dealers are good.á However, it gets cramped when the games are
>full.
>
>BINION’S: Classic poker room, great dealers, and good (but craggy,
>sometimes scary) players.á Got to play here at least once, just to say
>you did it.á Good 4-8 hold’em games.

Tom wrote:

>Lots of great poker rooms.á I travel to play quite often and have
>become especially fond of the games at the Texas Station.á Small room,
>friendly staff.á Good competition to test your skills.á More
>profitable for better players at low limits is the Bellagio.á Better
>mix of tourists to locals.á Somewhat looser play here.á Orleans has
>the best low buy in poker tournaments.á I’ve done well here a couple
>of times.

R Buss wrote:

>My wife and I are taking our second trip to Las Vegas and wondered
>what the best and least expensive means of transportation would be
>from McCarran to the Excalibur?á we’re on a limited budget and don’t
>want to overdo it on transportation costs.á We’ll have suitcases etc.
>Also, is there any truth to the rumor that the Frontier is slated for
>demolition.á We stayed there last trip, and were planning to do that
>again until we heard that the hotel might be gone before we got there.
>We realize that it’s not the classiest place but liked the fact that
>the trolley, which we relied on, stopped next door at the Fashion Show
>Mall going north and south.

The date for the implosion of the Frontier isn’t set yet, but should be set far enough in advance that they won’t be taking reservations for after that point.

If cost is an issue, just catch one of the Bell Trans shuttles. Last I heard, it was about $4 a person from the airport to any Strip hotel. Even though Excalibur is close to the airport, with a shuttle you don’t have to worry about traffic and the meter running.

Don from Winnipeg, Canada wrote:

>I read with disappointment that the Green Shack, a true Las Vegas
>original restaurant is now closed.á Do you have suggestions for a good
>fried chicken dinner similar to the great spread put on at the Green
>Shack?á Thanks.

It was a shame. That place was a classic. I don’t know of any truly outstanding fried chicken dinners. Readers, have you had a really great fried chicken dinner here in town? Let us know at allvegastv@aol.com

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ONLINE POLL – “Have you been to the Desert Inn and are you going to go (or return) now that Steve Wynn owns it?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!Results from last poll: ” Would you plan an additional trip to Las Vegas each year to watch spring training games?”

I don’t like baseball to begin with 38%
No, but I might take in a game if they play while I am there. 27%
I won’t make an extra trip, but I’ll adjust one of my regular visits. 13%
I’m requesting the vacation time the minute Las Vegas gets it! 23%

FREE CONTESTS:

Note: You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). Just sent 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.

EFX show programs — We have two programs, one each to the 20’th and 21’st entries at (contest closed)

Desert Inn Resort — 50’th anniversary special section in the Review-Journal. Enter at (contest closed)

Las Vegas T-Shirt — one size fits all. 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 You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

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

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to below

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 15, 2000

Posted on March 15, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

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

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

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

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

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

This Issue: NASCAR Cafe and Cyber Speedway

Curious about a restaurant, event, 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:

NEW ROLLER COASTER – The new Speed ride at the Sahara is going to use linear induction motors to speed you to 70 mph as you shoot through the Sahara sign, a loop, and a tunnel. That’s not enough? The midpoint of the ride is climbing a 222 foot vertical tower, after which you free fall backwards through the entire track once again. Picture and full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-04-Sat-2000/business/13039919.html This along with the NASCAR Cafe and Cyber Speedway (reviewed this issue) is helping put the Sahara back on the “must see” list for race fans and thrill seekers.

NEW CASINO – Station Casinos is slated to build a new $275 million dollar casino in the Green Valley area of Las Vegas. This casino is scheduled to have a 54,000 square foot casino with 2,000 slot machines and 40 table games along with the prerequisite restaurants, movie theatres, spa, and meeting space. Full story as well as proposed drawing at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-14-Tue-2000/business/13162541.html

YES, WE REALLY LIVE HERE – Having the regular contact I have with tourists, I hear my share of “How can you actually live here” questions. One of the more popular questions is “Where does everybody live?” (usually asked by someone who flew on over plenty of residential rooftops). Gaming does account for 25% of our work force, and these people are real people with real lives just like you and I.

Kit Miller’s book “Inside the Glitter: Lives of Casino Workers” is a stunning work of photography and interviews of casino workers from around the state. You can read separate reviews of it at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-22-Tue-2000/news/12975749.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-24-Thu-2000/lifestyles/12980677.html It is available from Amazon.Com at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0967648602/invegascom

4 DIAMONDS – The Las Vegas Hilton has won a AAA Four Diamond rating for the 24’th year on a row. Las Vegas now has more Four Diamond guest rooms than any other city in America with 17,205. Seen to the left accepting the award are Julius Kazen (Hilton, left) and Rick Ernst (AAA, right)

VEGAS MUSIC – Las Vegas is now the 40’th largest media market (Arbitron) in the country and the exploding population has brought a great diversity of local music talent to the city. http://www.lvlocalradio.com is an internet radio station playing local talent exclusively while sister site http://www.lvlocalmusicscene.com gives you information on just about every local band and artist. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-07-Tue-2000/lifestyles/13089267.html
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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

COPA – You can read Mike Weatherford’s review of the new David Cassidy / Sheena Easton show at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-10-Fri-2000/weekly/13141151.html

LAS VEGAS HILTON – OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN March 31-April 1, TIM CONWAY and HARVEY KORMAN in their “Together Again” tour April 7 and 8, KENNY RODGERS on April 14 and 15, JEFF FOXWORTHY on April 28-30, TRISHA YEARWOOD on May 5 and 6, JOHNNY MATHIS on May 12 and 13, and WYNONNA on May 19-21. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

HARD ROCK HOTEL – OASIS with special guest TRAVIS on April 11. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

FEATURE STORY: NASCAR Cafe and Cyber Speedway

The NASCAR Cafe opened race weekend, joining similar operations in Myrtle Beach, Nashville, Orlando, the Smoky Mountains. I took the opportunity to visit on the Monday after the race.

If driving, park in the Sahara’s lot in back of the hotel across Paradise Rd. A covered walkway directs you right into the Cyber Speedway area, and the parking lot is usually empty. Avoid the Sahara parking garage. It ranks right there with Paris and MGM on the “complicated parking garage” list.

The Sahara has had racing simulator Indy cars for quite some time now. In keeping with the new NASCAR theme, they have replaced most of the Indy cars with Winston Cup cars in the “Cyber Speedway” area. For $8, you get in a car with a 180 degree screen wrapped around you. The car tilts and moves as you drive around Las Vegas Motor Speedway, along with different sound effects. (The one you don’t want to hear is what it is like to bounce off the wall)! You are “racing” against up to 5 other people at a time. (Get in line at the “B” staging area, as staging area “A” only has 2 cars). I came in 2 out of 5. No credit to my driving skills, but more a credit to having played a few computer games and getting the feel for stuff like that pretty quickly.

The place was buzzing with fans who came into town for the race and decided to make an extended trip out of it. The new casino area adjacent to the Cafe features blackjack (including a number of $1 games), roulette, and a few slots. Next to it is the gift shop, featuring almost everything NASCAR. Just what Las Vegas needs — another place selling $20 t-shirts. The entire downstairs if filled with NASCAR photos and memorabilia, much like the Hard Rock is for rock music.

The restaurant is upstairs and overlooks the downstairs bar area. You are given a number if there is a wait. The only place you can see the numbers are on the corners of some of the TV monitors in the bar area. Drinks aren’t cheap — we took note of what people were paying: domestic bottles of beer at $3 and premium shots at $4.50. You can also order appetizers in the $7 range. The plus side? The bar has 9/6 jacks or better video poker (quarters and above) and you can use your slot club card. Buy a roll, get a free drink, and play “break even” video poker.

NOTE: This is a weird situation. The machines are multi-denomination machines that take (and dispense) nickels. So, you need to stick a $10 in as the bartender watches and ask for a comp drink. And the unwritten rule in Las Vegas is that you play full coins in if you are playing quarters or below and getting comped a drink. Coffee, bottled water, booze — it doesn’t matter. One more crazy thing — any payout above $5 is a hand pay. Otherwise these machines would run out of nickels in no time. Very irritating, to both players and the staff that was running around doing $10 hand pays.

The restaurant is loud and busy, but much of that may have had to do with it being new. It is the typical food selection you find at most theme restaurants. My steak was a great 9 oz. steak with a $16 price tag. Expect the tab for two including an appetizer, meals, and a couple drinks to be $40-50. Well worth it for a NASCAR fan. Otherwise, just go look around and take one of the cyber cars for a drive. You don’t have to like NASCAR to enjoy racing the cars or the $1 blackjack.

The NASCAR Cafe is located in the north end of the Sahara Hotel. The restaurant is open from 11 AM until 10 PM (closing time subject to change — they said that they are still getting a feel for demand) and the lounge is open until 2 AM. Sahara Hotel discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Sahara link).

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Debra Cook wrote:

>We just got back from Las Vegas after 4 days at the
>Desert Paradise Resort, a timeshare/condo facility on
>Decatur Rd. We usually visit LV 3 or 4 times a year
>and wanted a break this time from the usual hotels.
>What a great idea!!!!
>
>We reserved our unit online and I wasn’t sure of what
>the buildings were like. I e-mailed you and you said
>they were pretty nice. You were never wrong for a
>second.
>
>The unit was 1 bedroom, full kitchen, approximately 32
>inch stereo television in the nicely appointed living
>room, another set in the bedroom which had a king
>sized bed, a very nice bathroom, and all the
>dinnerware/glasses and utensils one would need. Of
>course, I did not cook while vacationing, but could
>have. They even threw in a washer/dryer (non coin
>operated) and an iron and board.
>
>Housekeeping came once a day to tidy up, and, it is a
>secure gated facility. Complementary breakfast is
>served each morning (although very early for Las Vegas
>vacation visitors – from 8 to 9am)in the main building.
>The facility has a fitness center, pool, spa. It’s
>just a few blocks by car to everything. If you don’t
>rent a car, they have shuttles to the strip. It is a
>non-gaming facility, but, with the rent a car, we did
>not mind.
>
>Since we were there for 4 days, we did not cram all of
>our usual stops into a limited number of hours. When
>we grew tired of walking and gawking, we went back to
>our unit and relaxed a bit in a very spacious
>environment. This was the best trip ever.

Glad to hear that you had a great trip! Booking info for the Desert Paradise is at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm#other (Desert Paradise link).

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ONLINE POLL – “Do you prefer table games, slots, or both?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

Note: You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 10’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). Just sent 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.

ANDRE-PHILIPPE – tickets for 2. Enter at http://promotion.lasvegas.citysearch.com/Star_canyon.html

FOLIES BERGERE – tickets for 2. Enter at http://promotion.lasvegas.citysearch.com/folies_bergere.html

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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 You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

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

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to below

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 8, 2000

Posted on March 8, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

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

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

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: Darren Romeo

Curious about a restaurant, event, 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:

NASCAR – the big race last weekend was a victim to a rare rainy Las Vegas day, which was unfortunate for the 120,000-plus tourist who flocked to town to see it. Race fans may find the following stories from the Review-Journal of interest:

The Race – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/sports/13105240.html
Photos – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/photos/photos.html
Results – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-06-Mon-2000/sports/13105883.html

DANNY GANS – When Danny Gans started at the Rio a little about two years ago, he was somewhat unknown but word spread quick and up went the price. From $40 to $100 in a little more than a year. Gans was upset because the Rio had allegedly told him that price increases would be mutually agreed upon, as Gans wasn’t getting a dime of any raise. Gans bolted to The Mirage when his contract ended, and starts April 4’th. Full story at http://www.bergen.com/previews/cas03200003038.htm

MTV – will be shooting their “Total Request Live” show with host Carson Daily this Saturday at the Fremont St. Experience Saturday from 3:30- 5:00 PM. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-10-Fri-2000/news/13122166.html

WAYNE – Has anybody seen Wayne Newton’s show as it’s traveled around the country? What did you think? ( allvegastv@aol.com )I’m putting it on my short list of things to review now that he’s signed the long term contract to play The Stardust. There was a pretty good story about him and the new situation at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-03-Fri-2000/news/13089738.html

KEY LARGO – hotel on Flamingo is a little too far from the Strip unless you are renting a car or don’t mind taking cabs or waiting for the bus, but according to the Review-Journal, they have installed a number of full pay video poker machines including 9/7 Jacks or Better, Kings or Better Joker’s Wild, Deuces Wild, and 10/7 Double Bonus. Plus, their club card returns .25 percent. Full story is at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-03-Fri-2000/weekly/13065708.html That article is also a good read because it talk about the odds bet at craps — very helpful info for the novice craps player on why to take odds.

X-SPOT – The new club cranks up on Saturday night inside the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay. It’s advertising itself as the “No attitude, no BS place to hang out, drink cheap beer, and listen to good music”. Advertised are $1.50 drafts and a DJ playing alternative music. Admission is free if listen to 107.5 FM to get the password. Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

STORIES – available right now on http://www.accessvegas.com : Eight killed in van rollover, Casino Magnate Wynn Weighs Options, Spokane’s America West service takes off, Las Vegas Posts 10.5% Increase in Visitors

WINNERS – Sandra Martin of Nebraska City, NE won the NASCAR race preview. Paul Gurzynski of Milwaukee, WI won the press photos. Debi Jackson of Kenosha, WI won the Star Trek coin.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

BLUE MAN GROUP – You can check out an article about this quirky group whose show is running at the Luxor at http://www.scopemag.com/features/blue_man_cometh.html and Luxor discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Luxor link).

MANDALAY BAY – B.B. KING on March 15, FLOGGING MOLLY on March 17, THE YOUNG DUBLINERS on March 18, WARREN ZEVON on March 25, INCUBUS on March 29, DIO on April 1, PETER MURPHY on April 2, DR. JOHN on April 6, SEBASTIAN BACH on April 8, LIT on April 9, JOE SATRIANI on April 16, and LYNYRD SKYNYRD on April 25. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

HARD ROCK – JARS OF CLAY with BURLAP TO CASHMERE and DAVID WILCOX March 23, MARGARET CHO on March 25, JOHN LEE HOOKER on April 8, and TRACY CHAPMAN on April 16. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and discount Hard rock rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

SUNSET STATION – BILLY RAY CYRUS on March 24, TAYLOR DAYNE on March 25. Tickets available at (702) 547-7970 and discount Sunset Station rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Sunset Station link).

FEATURE STORY: Darren Romeo

You want to go see a magic show. Your wife wants to be entertained by song. Your friend enjoys comedy. It’s early afternoon in Las Vegas, you are still stuffed from lunch buffet and getting creamed at the tables and slots. What do you do? Head on over to the Flamingo Hilton and catch 24 year old Darren Romeo’s show!

This guy can sing. In fact, he can sing so well that during his first number I could have sworn he was lip synching (pretending to sing to a taped background). In his “hello” to the audience, he assured us that all of his vocals would be absolutely live and then jumped right into the classic “Dream Lover” by namesake Bobby Darren as he put together a plexiglass box for his first trick. Not missing a beat (or a breath), he made his “dream lover” (assistant) appear from the clear empty box.

After another magic stunt themed to his vocal performance, he went on a string of singing comedy impressions of vocalists like Neil Diamond, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Ricky Martin, Elton John, Johnny Mathis, and Tom Jones. The actual impressions were passable, but the highlight was the comedy lyrics and stage moves such as Johnny Mathis crooning his dismay over not being able to attract the women like Tom Jones and Neil Diamand singing about his bald spot. He had everyone rolling in the aisles!

He brought up a female volunteer from the audience to do a touching poetry and musical act about losing a love — asking “have you ever been dumped?” in the middle of tender vocals which brought a laugh. His singing was the perfect accompaniment to a paper rose trick in which he molded a piece of paper into a rose and made it levitate before vanishing in a spectacular ball of fire. I can only imagine the concentration level needed to sing and perform magic together.

The magic was the garden variety that we have all unfortunately been overexposed to on numerous TV specials, but seeing magic in person still gives you that tingling “how did he do that” thrill. We don’t want to spill all the surprises, but he’s got a couple of first-class transformation and teleportation tricks up his sleeve.

He’s such an energetic, fun loving guy that it at times almost detracts from his magic. During a variation of the “pick a card, any card” trick, he was joking along so much that I forgot which pictures we were supposed to be remembering! Perhaps a little more magician’s seriousness would have been in order there, but you can’t be too harsh on a guy who genuinely appears to be having a great time. Despite his extensive resume in theatre and magic that belies his young age, he still comes across with a “pinch me — I can’t believe I’m hear” attitude.

The finale was a piece from Phantom of the Opera that once again showcased both his vocal and theatrical skills and revolved around the levitation of his sleeping assistant. It brought the show to an emotional crest and culminated with a stunning trick.

This show probably isn’t one for the “sports books and craps table” buddies. However, it’s a fun 70 minutes of entertainment for a couple. Also, ladies who are in town for “girls getaway” or who have heard their male companion yell “yo-eleven” for the yo-eleventh too many times at the craps table and need a break will appreciate the show. Besides his talent, Mr. Romeo looks like a slightly younger Ricky Martin and the group of ladies seated in front of me certainly seemed to be enjoying all aspects of the show. Me? I’m more of a yo-eleven kind of guy, but this show even won me over by the end.

Darren Romeo plays in the showroom at The Flamingo Hilton every day but Wednesday at 3:00 PM. Tickets are $14.95 and include one drink. Flamingo Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Flamingo Hilton link).

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

In response to last weeks letter about staying at The Trop and getting married in Las Vegas:

Zira Schiffer wrote:

>My husband and I were married at the Riviera two years ago.á When you
>get in line at the license bureau you’ll think it will take forever,
>but take heart, they are very efficient.á It was actually quite
>interesting watching the different couples there.á The Tropicana is
>definitely not one of the fancy hotels, but I’m sure they do a fine
>ceremony.á The buffet at Rio is very good, but expect to wait on line
>a long time.á Lots of luck.

Note: The regular buffet at the Rio has been going downhill (and up in price) and we no longer suggest it.

Peter from Santa Barbara, CA wrote:

>Diana, I was at the Tropicana two weeks ago and enjoyed it very much.
>The Pool grounds are spectacular and the room was very nice (Nice
>couch, cool bath Tub & mirrors over the bed).á there was only two
>things that I disliked, the Tropicana buffet and the most unpleasant
>”10 mile hike” to our room.á What ever you do not book the rooms in
>the back tower, unless you like a long, long walk.á FYI, they have a
>special $20 for $40 dollar slot area, even if you don’t win cash you
>still get a gift.á We did it for the Follies show, instead of paying
>40 bucks each for just the show, we got a chance to win cash and only
>spent 20 bucks each for the tickets.á Or you can choose two tickets to
>the Magic show among other things as your gift.

Cindy wrote:

>hi there….i am writing in regards to the woman that is getting
>married at the Tropicana in September…i now live in vegas and i also
>married at the little white chapel…my cake came from smith’s grocery
>store which cost $20, it was a round cake with red roses and
>doves…it was beautiful….i called the day before my wedding and
>picked it up myself…i also made my bouquet and the wedding party
>members r flowers by using a few dozen roses and ribbon from the
>grocery store…i spent around $30….i ran to Lee’s discount store
>and picked up 2 bottles of champagne at the cost of $20…cheap
>champagne is just as good in taste as expensive champagne…á and
>brought it with us to the chapel to have when we got out of the
>ceremony as well as to Battista’s whole in the wall behind barbarey
>coast, where we had our wedding dinner…their food is wonderful there
>as well as an enjoyable atmosphere….people were very friendly and
>great…we shared our wedding cake with several unknown guests in the
>restaurant….what ever you do, don’t eat at the buffet at the
>tropicana…it is truly horrible!á as far as wedding pictures, the
>little white chapel requests that no pictures can be taken inside the
>ceremony unless you use their photographers…so of course we had
>to…but my father in law also brought his camera and took several
>pictures after the ceremony and throughout the night…low and behold
>when comparing the differences of pictures when developed, my father
>in laws pictures came out absolutely beautiful which cost $4.95 to
>develop at walmart compared to the photographer’s from the little
>white chapel which cost $200….i ended up having duplicates and
>blow-up done on the $4.95 pictures and none from the little white
>chapel’s….by the way, i went to the hard rock cafe’s diner…its a
>24 hour place inside of the casino….i can’t remember the name of it
>maybe because i never want to go back there….oh my god….it was so
>gross….i couldn’t eat the food and my husband and i left without
>eating….the service was horrible also….i was served food with no
>utensils which took awhile to get a hold of….no offers of refills
>for coffee…and can you believe it…the place was empty…explain
>that one….for the woman getting married in vegas…as a site for her
>to always remember, make a special trip to the top of the stratosphere
>to see all of vegas….i’ve done it a dozen times and still am floored
>by its sight….thanks….cindy

Thanks for all the great advice! Tourist who don’t want to head out to one of the Lee’s Discount Liquor locations might want to hit the discount liquor store at The Gold Coast (the casino right next to The Rio). We have mixed opinions about Mr. Lucky’s, the coffee shop at the Hard Rock. Their $5.95 surf and turf special is great! It’s not on the menu, so ask for it. But, the service is usually lousy.

Sam Profio wrote:

>Ted, on the local (Cleveland) news last night I saw that the Scintas
>are going to be playing the Las Vegas Hilton for the next few months.
>The Scintas are a group from Buffalo that play many cities in NY, OH,
>MI, PA, New England, etc.á They have played on cruise ships as well
>but have never been able to break into Vegas until now.á This is a
>very entertaining group.á They do comedy, sing, and do great
>impersonations of other singers.
>
>The group mainly consists of an Italian family, two brothers and one
>sister.á The brothers sing impersonations from Billy Joel to Satchmo
>and you would swear its the real deal.á The sister has the power and
>range of Whitney Houston and sounds like her too.á Incredible.á The
>brothers are very funny and pick on their drummer who is not Italian,
>”the white boy”.
>
>I have seen them three times and they never disappoint.á I highly
>recommend to all of your readers that they check this out!

While time constraints prevent us from getting around to even half of the great events taking place, thanks for alerting our readers who will be staying or playing at the Las Vegas Hilton.

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ONLINE POLL – “Do you prefer table games, slots, or both?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in 2 weeks!

Results from last poll question “How much per night do you usually pay for a room in Las Vegas”?

Under $30áááá 9%
$30 – $50áááá 25%
$50 – $75áááá 32%
$75 – $100áááá 16%
$100 – $200 5%
over $200áááá 1%
If I don’t get a comp, forget it 12%

FREE CONTESTS:

3 DAY, 2 NIGHTS AT LADY LUCK – http://www.ladyluck.com/win_a_vaca.htm

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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 You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to below

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 1, 2000

Posted on March 1, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

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

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

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions by posting a note to our new board at http://boards.accessvegas.com We want to hear from you!

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This Issue: IMPERIAL PALACE AUTO COLLECTION, LAS VEGAS RADIO ONLINE

Curious about a restaurant, event, 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:RACING – the big race weekend is upon us us culminating with the CarsDirect.Com 400 on Sunday. You can catch pretty much everything on TV: Friday afternoon ESPN2 covers the qualifying heats for Sunday’s race, TNN features the Penzoil World of Outlaws on Friday night, ESPN2 covers the Sam’s Town 300 on Saturday, and Sunday the big race is on ABC. Check your local listings.

The NASCAR Cafe is opening tonight at The Sahara as I write. My schedule didn’t permit attending it although we did give advance notice of the event a few days ago at http://www.accessvegas.com This is the second race-themed eatery to open here in a few months, joining downtown’s Race Rock. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-28-Mon-2000/business/13045229.html

THE ALADDIN – is already preparing for it’s August 17, 2000 opening. The $900 million dollar, 2,600 room project is booking rooms and they have opened an employment center
to fill the 3900 jobs needed. You can inquire about employment at (877)
421-9474 Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-01-Wed-2000/business/13067332.html and discount Aladdin rooms available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

IMPROVE YOUR ODDS – Gaming writer Mark Pilarski wrote a great article for novice gamblers on how to look for the more advantageous games. While it talks about the differences between Detroit and Nevada casinos, if you scroll down he has some great basic advice about how to look for the best odds in the most popular casino games. Story at http://detnews.com/2000/features/0002/28/02280033.htm

TV – Saturday evening on The Learning Channel is “Las Vegas Uncovered”. Check local cable listings for times.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

NOTRE DAME DE PARIS – Michael Paskevich reviewed this new show at Paris Las Vegas at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-25-Fri-2000/weekly/13025814.html

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL – The Dallas Morning News reviewed this show at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/0620trvegascirque.htm

MGM – JIMMY BUFFET brings his Beach House on the Moon tour here on April 15 and BRITTNEY SPEARS is live in concert on August 4. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and discount MGM rooms available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

MANDALAY BAY – LUIS MIGUEL on April 29. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and discount Mandalay Bay rooms available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

FEATURE STORY:IMPERIAL PALACE AUTO COLLECTION

I knew I forgot to take my family to see something when then were in town last year. They are car lovers. Cars, cars, cars. And the Imperial Palace Auto Collection has them with over 200 rare automobiles on display at any given time. They rotate them in and out, and it is a working gallery as all automobiles are for sale.

I had the pleasure of viewing rare cars like a 1933 Lincoln Brougham (1 of only 3 built that year), the 1998 Corvette Indy 500 pace car with only 3,801 actual miles, a 1939 Lancia Astura Ministeraile convertible (priced at $375,000 and rare because no two were built exactly alike and this one was used by Mussolini during his reign of Italy), the 1982 Range Rover “Pope Mobile” (built specifically for the Papal visit to Europe — yours for only $250,000) and plenty more.

Celebrity cars included a 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible assigned to the White House for the personal use of Mrs. JFK, a 1952 Chrysler Imperial Presidential Parade car used by both Eisenhower and Nixon ($400,000), a 1966 Chrysler Imperial originally purchased by Elvis, and a 1955 Lincoln Capri Convertible owned by Marilyn Monroe ($200,000 and one of only 1200 built).

The collection also features the largest collection of Medal J Duesenbergs in the world, showcased in their very own room. This Duesenberg collection is valued at over $50 million dollars and words simply can’t describe it.

	Just one part of the extensive collection!
	1952 Chrysler Imperial Presidential Parade Car used by Eisenhower and Nixon. Valued at $400,000
	1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible assigned to the White House for the personal use of Mrs. John F. Kennedy
	1939 Lancia Astura Ministeraile Convertible. No two were exactly alike. This car was used by Mussolini during his reign of Italy. Valued at $375,000
	Mercedes-Benz 300 500SEL. Imelda Marcos gift to Ferdinand features bullet proof door panels, roof, flooring and armor plated doors and windows.
	1911 Chadwick Touring car valued at $750,000
	The world famous Duesenberg room.

The collection is open from 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM and admission is basically free. You can print out a free entry coupon at http://www.ipautocollection.com/art/autocoupon.jpg or usually get one as part of the packet handed out to tourist in front of the casino as you walk by.

LAS VEGAS RADIO ONLINE

KOMP – is the “Rock of Las Vegas”. It is generally regarded as one of the better hard rock stations in the U.S. playing 80’s and 90’s rock and metal.

KKLZ – is a classic rock station that hasn’t changed their format or their playlist since I moved here in 1993 (or so it seems). 70’s classic rock and that’s it. Their site is down right now.

KXPT – is another classic rock station, but with a little wider playlist and more variety.

KDWN – this is the talk station that made Art Bell famous. It can be heard in much of the western US at night and he used that for a springboard to national syndication and fame. Conservative talk would probably best describe this eclectic station.

KKVV – the local Christian AM station features a combination of Christian talk radio and religious programs.

Note: David Humphrey Dallas, TX wrote a letter concerning when the elevators, escalators, trams between casinos, etc. are shut down for maintenance as almost every one he encountered was not working during a recent visit to town. That was happenstance but it did bring up something I suggest: Avoid the monorail between Bally’s and the MGM unless you just want the ride or it’s really hot / cold out. By the time you walk to the back of Bally’s, wait for the monorail, ride, and then walk all the way from the back of the MGM to the Strip, it’s faster to just walk the Strip. Plus, Paris Las Vegas is beautiful on the outside and you don’t want to miss that as you walk down the Strip.LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

David M. Noll of Panama City, FL writes:

>Ted: Your review of Star Trek: The Experience mentioned the motion
>simulator portion of the ride and cautioned that certain folks may
>want to avoid it.á My wife and I don’t like “shaker” rides, but there
>is a solution (thanks, I imagine, to the Americans With Disabilities
>Act).á When we did the Luxor simulator ride, we were directed (upon
>our request) to a separate studio with a huge screen and about a dozen
>or so seats securely bolted into the floor.á We got to see the film
>without “experiencing” it.á Since Star Trek is newer than Luxor’s
>ride, I suspect they may have something similar.
>
>By the way, since we are in Florida, we often go to Walt Disney World.
>The MGM park has a motion simulator ride with a Star Wars theme called
>Star Tours.á If they’re not too busy, we ask for a “test flight” and
>they give us a space shuttle of our own and turn off the shaker to
>watch the movie.

I contacted the Star Trek Experience and they don’t have an alternate way to view the show. You can go through the adventure and sit out the 4 minute simulator ride.

Diana of Bloomdale, OH wrote:

>We are planning a trip to Las Vegas on Labor Day weekend to be married
>at the Tropicana on 9-2-00.á Have any do’s and don’ts for us?á Have
>you heard anything good or bad about the Tropicana?á I also was
>wondering about how long we can expect to have to wait at the marriage
>license bureau if we go there on Friday night?á I would love to have a
>small wedding cake delivered to the hotel, but the cheapest I can find
>is $75 dollars for a small round cake for only 10 people.á Any
>suggestions?á My fiancÚ LOVES BUFFETS.á Which one do you consider to
>be the best food?á I would really appreciate your thoughts.

O.K. readers, I need your help here. Any comments to help this lady should be sent to allvegastv@aol.com

I can address two issues: people who want a nice cake without paying through the nose tend to just rent a car and order it from a local grocery store the day they hit town and then pick it up the next day. You’ll make back the car rental with what you save on the cake and you can actually talk to the bakers. I have heard good things about the Albertson’s at Flamingo and Maryland Pkwy. (about 2.5 miles east of the strip — 702-733-2947). Best buffet? Bellagio. Hands down. We reviewed it at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-12-15.htm

Don Davis of Edmonton, Alberta wrote:

>Hello Ted,
>
>We have been going to Las Vegas regularly since 1972 and thought we
>knew most of all there is to know about LV.
>
>But we have never heard of a casino host.á Please inform your readers
>as to what a casino host does and where do you find one if you want
>one.

Darn it, Don — then you aren’t losing enough money! A casino host is generally assigned to medium and high rollers. The host arranges their comps, checks up on how they are doing, and cultivates a relationship with them between visits, calling them and inviting them to town for special events (i.e. “Hey, we’ve got a room with your name on it Labor Day weekend and we know you like such-and-such performer — they are playing so we’ll toss in tickets and a pre-show private buffet with an open bar”).

Our take on comps? Get all the comps your play merits, but NEVER play for comps. If you are anything above a low roller, call a casino ahead of time and ask for a casino host. Tell them your level of play (how much and how long per day you usually gamble) and ask if they can do anything for you. But whether it be one more pull on the slot handle for one more slot point, or 5 more minutes at a blackjack table where you are getting killed, never ever EVER play to get a comp. A comp is based on the percentage of your expected loss. The casino pockets the other part of that percentage. Play as you always do and take whatever you can get based on that.

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RENTAL CARS – Don’t pay top dollar! Remember, you can now enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every rental car agency in town (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or book your regular agency. Save the hassle and save some money at: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/index.html?cid=2005 Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!

FREE CONTESTS:Note: You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 10’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). Just sent 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.

PRESS PHOTOS – black and white photos of Rita Rudner, Reba, Sinbad, and Steven Wright (all 4 go to the winner). Enter at (contest closed)

STAR TREK – When I visited the Experience, I did one of those machines that presses a quarter (U.S.) into a design. I chose the one with the Enterprise on it. It says “USS Enterprise / NCC-1701-00” Enter at (contest closed)

RACE WEEKEND – The Review-Journal’s special race weekend pullout featuring info on the CarsDirect.Com 400 goes to the tenth entry at(contest closed)

HOUSE OF BLUES – has an ongoing contest for free tickets at http://216.103.134.60/ticketgiveaway/calgrid.asp?vid=103

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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://hotels.nevada.nu You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

New to the list? Back issues can be found on the web at: http://www.las-vegas-news-reviews.com

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
http://www.las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to
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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 22, 2002

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 7, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 30, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 15, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 1, 2000

Just one part of the extensive collection!

1952 Chrysler Imperial Presidential Parade Car used by Eisenhower and Nixon. Valued at $400,000

1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible assigned to the White House for the personal use of Mrs. John F. Kennedy

1939 Lancia Astura Ministeraile Convertible. No two were exactly alike. This car was used by Mussolini during his reign of Italy. Valued at $375,000

Mercedes-Benz 300 500SEL. Imelda Marcos gift to Ferdinand features bullet proof door panels, roof, flooring and armor plated doors and windows.

1911 Chadwick Touring car valued at $750,000

The world famous Duesenberg room.

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