Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 30, 2001

Posted on May 30, 2001December 24, 2008 by admin

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THIS WEEK’S CITY ON SALE: Las Vegas: Stratosphere from $59.95, Aladdin from $109.95, Hilton Grand Vacations from $69.95, The Hilton from $59.95, and The Orleans $59.95 Click to http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/OnSale?LKF=IVC&SID=IVC

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THIS ISSUE: Andre-Philippe Gagnon

EDITOR NOTES:

I was expecting a bigger negative response to last week’s “tell it like it is” articles on the pitfalls of playing for comps and gambling with slot club cards (which focus you on points, not how much more you are losing to “earn” points).

Out of 16,000+ subscribers, only two (2) wrote in and said that they use their club card and break even or end up ahead every year when they factor in the freebies. I thought that number would be just a little higher, but further shows that playing to “earn” comps isn’t a way to beat Las Vegas.

Yes, our city on sale (above) for the third straight week is Las Vegas. Our hotel partner HRN decides each week’s city, and for some reason they have left Las Vegas specials running for three weeks now. If you were debating, I’d take advantage of the specials now. I can’t guarantee we will have Las Vegas specials another week.

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HOTEL FIRE – This just in: The Gold Spike Hotel Casino downtown (a cheap, rundown place downtown near Lady Luck) caught fire about 11 AM this morning. Seventeen were hurt attempting to get out, but none of the injuries were serious. The damage was confined to one room where a man and woman first reported their mattress on fire. Because of the 1980 fire at Bally’s (then the MGM Grand), Clark County (Las Vegas) now has some of the most stringent hotel fire safety codes in the world.

NEW LOUNGES – Caesars Palace and Paris Las Vegas have both jumped into the fray created by the success of V-Bar at Venetian (which we reported on a few weeks ago). Can anyone say “Bond … James Bond”? That seems to be the feel and era they are both working to recreate. Paris Las Vegas has opened Vamp from 10 PM – 4 AM on weekend nights. Vamp promises visually stimulating fashion, pulsating laser light spectrum and stylish, vogue lounge dancers with a cover of $15.

Caesars has Shadow, featuring contemporary designs with eclectic furnishings. What will stand out is the constant presence of provocative Shadow concierges. Visible only through a sheer scim screen, these multiple silhouette dancers will perform choreographed dance routines to original music and the mingle with the guests acting as lounge hostesses when not dancing. Shadow will be open 24/7 with the dancers in attendance evenings. Cover (if any) was not disclosed.

WORLD SERIES OF POKER – has been over for a couple of weeks now, but I found a good article giving a firsthand rundown of the yearly Las Vegas spectacle at http://www.freep.com/news/casinos/gam25_20010525.htm

PORN HANDBILLS – The Nevada Supreme Court ruled in a mixed opinion Thursday that The Mirage and Treasure Island are entitled to restrict the distribution of sexually oriented handbills on their sidewalks though they are used by the public. This is another step in the long fight between the resorts and the companies who pass out the handbills. The handbill companies claim free speech while the resorts suggest they have certain rights to the areas that front their properties. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-18-Fri-2001/news/16124818.html

SUMMER IS HERE – With the temperatures generally climbing, we can’t stress enough the importance of drinking plenty of water while out there. Because of the very low humidity, you perspire greatly but don’t realize it because it evaporates off of your body immediately. Drinking booze dehydrates you further. Either way, we suggest stopping by the hotel bars on a regular basis and grabbing a bottled water. Your body will thank you, your stamina will by higher, and you’ll enjoy your vacation a lot more.

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

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

HARRAH’S – scored a number of wins in the recent “Best of Las Vegas” put out by the Review-Journal. Clint Holmes (read our archived review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-02-21.htm ) was voted “Best Singer,” “Best All-around Las Vegas Performer,” and “Favorite Male Las Vegan.” He has also been inducted into the Casino Legends Hall of Fame at the Tropicana (Hall of Fame review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-09-15.htm ).

Additionally, The Improv was voted “Best Comedy Club” and the Carnival Court was voted “Best Lounge.” The Carnival Court is definitely one of the more fun stops to party on the Strip, especially on weekend evenings when they have live blackjack outdoors to compliment the festive surroundings and live music. Discount Harrah’s rooms at hhttp://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm (Harrah’s link).

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

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

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

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:

PURPLE REIGN – The Prince tribute band plays Wed. – Sat. 10:30 PM to 1:00 AM in the Lighthouse Lounge of the Boardwalk Casino (across from Aladdin). One drink minimum

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Michael Holly (Sahara) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-04-Fri-2001/weekly/15991758.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1
* GOLF RESERVATIONS – BookVegas let’s you grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Click to http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5
* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Marrakech (on Paradise Rd. close to Strip) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/weekly/16044887.html

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

Thursday – 104 ░F / 78 ░F Sunny
Friday – 105 ░F / 79 ░F Sunny
Saturday – 102 ░F / 75 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 99 ░F / 73 ░F Sunny
Monday – 100 ░F / 76 ░F Sunny
Tuesday – 101 ░F / 75 ░F Sunny

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FEATURE STORIES: Andre-Philippe Gagnon

The lights went down, and Mick Jagger hit the stage. Almost. Andre-Philippe Gagnon, “the man of a thousand voices” hit the stage backed by a tight four piece band and did a dead-on impression (both physically and vocally) of the Stones lead singer.

Gagnon is part impressionist and all comedian. With a repertoire of hundreds of voices from Sinatra to Axl Rose, from Sting to Barry White, he shows extreme versatility during the 75 minute show. After Jagger, he establishes his talent by rolling through Lou Rawls, Julio and Willie (in duet), and Tom Jones among others.

Then comes “Bill: The Musical” which is a hilarious multi-act “play” based on the Clinton / Lewinsky saga. Songs by Sting, Louis Prima, Barry White, and Marvin Gaye are twisted lyrically to make a nonpartisan comedic set that had the audience breaking out in laughter a number of times.

Taking a swing at pop culture, he noted the Beatles songs now used in commercials and proceeded to give us other “what if” examples in a medley of Beatles songs turned to commercials. He then proceeded to do the same with varied artists such as James Brown, Joe Cocker, REM, Alice Cooper, The Oakridge Boys, and Dire Straits.

A Gagnon show is like being hit with rapid fire bullets. He weaves together verses of different songs, seldom even doing half a song by any one artist. What makes it work is his talent, blending flawlessly from both the voice and mannerisms of one performer to another. His band must receive serious credit themselves for the ability to jump from style to style to style and sound great.

He pulled out the big guns toward the close of the show. Lest one think that his talent is based strictly on working to mimic famous talents, he picked a random man out of the audience and had this man sing a few bars of a song. Gagnon then replicated the man dead-on … with not just the vocal quality (or lack thereof in this case) but the cadence. He then did a duet of the song with them man, moving the microphone back and forth between himself and this audience member every few words. With eyes closed, you couldn’t have told the difference.

He opened for Celine Dion in 1998 for her world tour, and she has a part in his show. Appearing via video screen, he sings a duet with her using not his own voice but Sinatra’s. The result was very impressive. There is one more surprise involving audience participation, but I’ll leave this impressive and hilarious bit a surprise. (No one in the audience is embarrassed or anything — have no fear).

Andre-Philippe Gagnon Ticket Info

EDITOR NOTES: This will be the last week I publish “Kids In Vegas” letters. The letters are a representative sample of responses. It’s been a great debate, but we need to move on to other topics. We’ll perhaps revive it in a few months, but if you have not had a chance to put in your two cents, we still have the poll “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?” running at http://www.accessvegas.com Also, PLEASE remember that if you don’t sign your letter (we like to have your city also), we can’t publish it.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Mark Reesor wrote:

>Your May 24th issue was absolutely fascinating – I really enjoyed the
>articles about comps and your comments about kids and Vegas.

Zig wrote:

>Dear Ted,
>
>I wish to start off by saying, “I hate children.” Obviously your
>readers will know where THIS letter is going. I took my first trip to
>Vegas in February 2001. One of the many things I enjoyed about Vegas
>was the “lack” of children. I have read the letters in your last
>issue from parents talking about how much they enjoyed Vegas with
>their children. Oh sure, THEY enjoyed Vegas, but what about the
>people around them? Parents all to often are so self-absorbed in
>their little darlings that they fail to consider other people. I’ve
>been to Disney World, and the most frustrating and annoying part of
>the experience is the children. I don’t know, should we start
>allowing children into bars, nightclubs, and adult bookstores too? It
>was YOUR decision to have children, don’t punish the rest of us. Keep
>the brats at home.

R and J Schill wrote:

>We’re one of the old peoples who have gone to Vegas since the children
>were 14 and 16 that being since 1980. At that time Vegas was very
>rude to children. They weren’t even allowed to peek in the front
>window of a casino. But it is so nice to see the change in policy.
>It’s not the children the casino’s should complain about but the
>adults that bring the children. If the child is brought up to respect
>his or her self plus those around them there is no problem. We’ve
>been run into and pushed aside by adults pushing strollers as if the
>side walk belonged to them only. With this attitude why should we
>blame the children. They only learn what they see.
>
>There is room in Vegas for everyone. But it is the adult that must
>determine the behavior of the children before the planned trip.
>Parents, children and grandparents have no problems so why should
>there be a problem in Vegas. Just as it is in the town you live in
>should it be in Vegas. It’s just a little commonsense. And Vegas has
>entertainment for everyone and all ages.

Yolanda Alter of Eastpointe, MI wrote:

>Hello Ted,
>
>Do kids belong in casinos. NO WAY! This is parenting 101….children
>do not belong in or near casinos. Certainly there are venues in Las
>Vegas where it is appropriate to take children but casinos and hotels
>with casinos are not the appropriate places.
>
>The root of the problem is not the children themselves. They go where
>they are taken, as they are their parent’s prisoners. The problem is
>irresponsible parents who subject their children to this atmosphere.
>I have been going to LV at least twice a year for the past 20 years.
>I can’t tell you the amount of times I have seen parents dragging
>children down the strip or through Casinos after 10 p.m. These
>children are tired and cranky. Children should be in bed!! Casinos
>are full of smoke, liquor, gambling, swearing and lewd people. This
>is not Disney World nor a proper environment for children.
>
>I overheard someone at the Mirage who was sitting in the Lagoon Saloon
>with an infant. They were complaining about people smoking in a bar!
>”Imagine people smoking in a bar!” The women loudly said she doesn’t
>allow smoking in her home as “it’s not good for the baby.” The smoke
>must have been bad for her brain, because common sense would tell you
>that you don’t take an infant to a bar. But it was convenient for the
>parent to blame the smokers. Now I don’t smoke, I don’t like smoke,
>but I know when I should be tolerant of it and where to expect it.
>
>Parents in general feel that it is there right to impose their
>”sweethearts” on everyone. I have had many dinners spoiled in LV and
>at home due to crying children. Many of these restaurants are not the
>family type and its after nine o’clock. Being a parent is a privilege
>and a sacrifice. You either get someone to watch your children, or
>DON’T GO.
>
>I enjoying going to Disney World, do I complain about children
>everywhere, NO WAY. I’m in their world.
>
>I know I won’t change the way parents see (their right) to do as they
>please with their children. Since you are imposing your children on
>lone adults I just wanted to give you MY opinion. (It’s my right!)

Bob wrote:

>I have enjoyed reading the newsletters
>but when you tell people to check out Rob
>Singers site you have done a terrible disservice to your readers.
>People might believe what he says. He is an idiot when it comes to
>gambling. Please check your sources more carefully.

It is not my job to get in the middle of the “video poker pro”
debates. (Right now, there is great controversy among “professional”
video poker players about which pro’s method for beating the machines
is better.) I assume people are smart enough to check his stuff out
and decide for themselves, and I’ve had links to a number of other VP
resources listed for years on my gambling page at
http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-gambling-online.htm

I merely used Mr. Singers comment as well as an article by a noted gaming writer to back up my point and I gave credit to both sources. I firmly believe that slot cards are a downfall to 99% of the players who use them. They get people focused on points, not their bankroll.

For every video pro out there who tells people how they can break even
or make a few bucks playing video poker (putting tens of thousands of
dollars a month through the machines, and factoring in their comps to
say they ended up ahead), there are hundreds of thousands of people
who get trapped into playing more than they planned.

The average visitor is here to party and have fun, and if I can help
them from going beyond their gambling budget I feel as though I’ve
done a good thing.

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

ONLINE POLL – “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

FREE CONTEST – Sign up with Weatherbug to track your local weather and win a free trip to Las Vegas: http://ww2.weatherbug.com/aff/default.asp?zcode=Z3390&DoCheck=True

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
May 30, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 23, 2001

Posted on May 23, 2001March 3, 2009 by admin

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: 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: The Truth About Slot Cards, Casino Freebies are not Usually Free

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

WORLD SERIES OF POKER – Carlos Mortensen knows when to hold ’em. The 29-year-old who moved to the United States from Spain a few years ago to play poker professionally won the World Series of Poker tournament Friday night at Binion’s Horseshoe — and a $1.5 million jackpot. Full story at http://www.bergen.com/morenews/poker20200105205.htm and http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/051601.html

WORLD SWIMSUIT – Model Search Finals will have over 60 women compete in what they bill as the “Ultimate Swimsuit Competition.” US and Canadian Finals are Friday, June 1 at 6:00 PM and the World Model Search Finals are Saturday, June 2 at 8: 00 PM. Tickets at (702) 731-7865. Discount Caesars rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Caesars link).

SET TO RETIRE IN VEGAS – Nevada might have to wait a few years before it lives up to its growing reputation as a retirement mecca. Fewer than 10 percent of the state’s booming population are 65 or older, according to 2000 census figures released Friday. However, those aged 45 to 59 nearly doubled their ranks. “The pre-retirees are people moving here for their last job,” said Jeff Hardcastle, state demographer. Full story at http://washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/nation/states/nv/A42254-2001May17.html

FRENCH FRY FUEL – Biodiesel fuel made from recycled cooking oils at casino hotels and restaurants went on sale in Nevada Tuesday, the first public access fueling station in the nation to offer the biodegradable fuel that reduces emissions. Full story at http://abcnews.go.com/sections/us/DailyNews/biodiesel010523.html

AFTERNOON TEA – The Four Seasons (located at the south end of Mandalay Bay — same building) offers English style afternoon tea from 2 – 5 PM daily. At the Verandah, patrons choose from 11 teas that come with a three-tiered serving tray filled with scones, finger sandwiches and pastries. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-16-Wed-2001/living/16029484.html

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

EFX – I took quite a bit of heat for my unkind review of EFX starring Rick Springfield, but word is that his run will end when his one-year contract is up. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-13-Sun-2001/news/16088379.html and you can read the archived review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-03-07.htm

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Fab Four (Las Vegas Hilton) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-18-Fri-2001/weekly/16097002.html
* Paul Anka – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/weekly/16011307.html
* Splash (Riviera) – http://www.lvshowbiz.com/current_issue/splash.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

EVENT LISTINGS:

* 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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Olio (MGM) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_05_10/dining_taste.html

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

Thursday – 103 ░F / 80 ░F Partly Cloudy
Friday – 100 ░F / 75 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 99 ░F / 74 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 96 ░F / 69 ░F Partly Cloudy
Monday – 90 ░F / 69 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORIES: The Truth About Slot Cards, Casino Freebies are not Usually Free

The Truth About Slot Cards
by Ted Newkirk

Every few weeks, someone writes and asks why I never talk about comps (casino complimentary, i.e., free stuff you get for playing). The answer? For most players, it is simply not worth it. Except for the free drinks when you gamble or asking the pit boss for dinner is you’ve had a long run at the table (I mean 2 hours of heavy play or 4 hours of normal play), the average gambler bringing a few hundred bucks to town is not only going to get next to nothing, but they will be baited to play and lose far more than the comps are worth.

Most casinos track your play with a slot club card. You give them more vital info than you probably feel comfortable parting with, you use the card every time in every machine you play so they can track your every move, and you earn points good for food, gift shop items, and (if you play heavily) rooms.

If you are an average player, you may rack up enough points during your stay for half a buffet or a T-shirt. When you get home, they might send you a couple of buffet coupons or a discount room offer to get you back in on your next visit. (These “special rates” are often on par with the everyday discounts we offer on the very same rooms — our room supplier buys rooms from the hotel in bulk at deep discounts we pass on to you.)

So what’s the problem, you ask?!? The casinos don’t have slot clubs because they are nice people. Casino comps are but a small percentage of the money you are expected to lose “earning” those slot points. We all like to think that we beat the house and got something for free, so these cards actually encourage you to play more than you were planning to. After you’ve started to accumulate points, you end up putting another $20 or $100 in the machine to rack up those few more points needed for a free meal, totally forgetting the fact that the $20 will outright BUY the meal!

Don’t take my word for this or say “Well, that is other people but I manage my money flawlessly.” I recently had a drink with professional gambler Rob Singer, author of The Undeniable Truth About Video Poker. The book as well as his site http://www.vptruth.com are very fresh looks at many of the myths surrounding “beating the house,” especially related to video poker play.

Rob plays with a set financial strategy, and his #1 and only goal is to lock up a certain win on each of his monthly visits. And even HE told me that he’s stopped using slot club cards because of the temptation to deviate from his financial strategy and play just a little more to gain a benefit. If a pro can be tempted, are you going to tell me you can’t?

Don’t get me wrong: If your gambling budget in well into the thousands for each trip, get all the comps you can. In fact, skip the slot club card and ask to speak to a casino host about your gambling budget and what they might do for you.

But for the rest of us, be careful. You are coming here to have fun, and hitting the ATM for the third time in a day subconsciously savoring the free buffet the points are going to “earn” you isn’t fun. And trust me, that buffet comp or T-shirt doesn’t make you look like a high roller in their eyes. You are just another player who got a little extra play out of. Multiply that extra, unplanned play by all the slot club players, and they can well afford to give away a couple bucks worth of food.

Still don’t believe me? Or Rob Singer? Here is an interesting and informative article that came across the gaming wire a couple weeks ago:

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Casino Freebies are not Usually Free
By Jeffrey Compton

How many times have you heard that “there is no such thing as a free lunch”? So many times that the cliche has lost its meaning. But if you patronize casinos, and receive mail filled with tempting “free offers,” and then act on that mail, i.e., stay in a free room, see a free show or have a free lunch, you will soon find out what free really means.

Here is an example from one of my readers: Dear Jeffrey: Ballys/Paris send us a letter offering three free nights and one for $69. After we arrived and played for several hours, we asked for a meal comp, and were told that there were no comp dollars available in our account until our play covered the cost of the rooms. I thought these rooms were free? WH, Springfield, Il

Before I go any further, let me assure one and all that this situation is not unique to Ballys/Paris, nor their owner Park Place Entertainment, nor happens only to travelers from Springfield. I get at least two “how come free isn’t free” letters a week, as do my fellow gaming writers Bob Dancer, Jean Scott and Anthony Curtis.

Here is how it works: As a player plays (assuming he is using his players club card), he earns both “published” and “discretionary” benefits. At most casinos in America, the published benefits are usually cash rebates (although many local Las Vegas and Midwest Riverboat casinos may also publish free food and room guidelines). Player comps, especially on the Las Vegas Strip, come from the discretionary account administered by the hosts.

Although policies vary (to the point where no two casinos have the same exact policy), many hotels do deduct from the player’s discretionary account any redeemed direct mail room/meal offers, and thus the player’s comp account could be considerably less than zero when they arrive. Some hotels (and hosts) handle this better than others, and find a more diplomatic way to explain it–¡ or tell the customer so little about discretionary comping that the player doesn’t realize what or how his account is charged.

Some casinos do not debit redeemed offers that were sent to fill up rooms during a traditionally slow seasons (early December), and there are still many older casinos that do not track redeemed direct mail offers back to the player account due to either corporate policy or an outdated computer system.

I will anticipate the next questions: “Casinos have been giving out comps both on the casino floor and through direct mail for years. Have they always tracked every freebie back to the customer?”

The answer is no, Bugsy and the boys did not spend two seconds thinking about player comps after they gave them out. Most decisions were done based on their best recollection of the player’s action (i.e. seat of the pants decision) and their daily mood. In the last few years, however, several developments have led casinos to keep track of the giveaways.

Casinos hold back a lot less money than they once did. Due to increased competition as well as increased player knowledge, player holds have dropped dramatically over the last twenty years. It was easy to be Santa Claus when you had a new sack of money coming in every day, but todayÆs casinos really have to work to make a buck.

Casinos are no longer one-man (or one-gang) operations. You can count the number of privately owned Nevada casinos on two hands, and even they have to report to their lenders. The rest have stockholders and investment bankers who are not thrilled about runaway “player reinvestment” expenses.

Players are more comp aggressive. My grandfather’s generation was brought up to never ask for a free meal, but most of us players have gotten over that stigma. Several recent books, most notably the Frugal Gambler by Jean Scott and Comp City by Max Rubin, have done an excellent job in converting once docile gamblers into aggressive comp consumers.

Computerization is everywhere. Whatever the reasons casinos had for making the comp process more accountable, it could not be done without computers, which get better and cheaper every year. It is my guess that within the next few years, they will know exactly how many free drinks I consume per hour of play ¡ and that is no joke.

So what should players do when they get a “free” offer in the mail? If they like to play at the casino, then by all means enjoy it, but realize that the offer was sent for a reason (hint: they want you to play the games) and if they do not get that result, you will not be getting any more freebies.

“Casino Freebies are not Usually Free Copyright” copyright May 11, 2001 lasvegas.com Gaming Wire Used with permission

EDITOR’S NOTE: People had a lot to say about the “Kids in Vegas” letters printed a few weeks ago. While I can’t print every letter I receive, I always print a representative sample of all opinions expressed. Letters that contain good writing style (paragraphs, punctuation, no ALL CAPS, etc.) have a better chance of getting published. I’ll have comments and answers at the end. Don’t forget to vote in this week’s poll “Should people bring kids to Las Vegas?” at http://www.accessvegas.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

John Krogh wrote:

> I found it amusing the two responses you published were both
> advocating keeping “kids” out of Las Vegas. Especially in light of
> the fact that Las Vegas has spent millions to promote itself as a
> “family vacation site.” Granted, I think that was a mistake, and I
> think Las Vegas has finally realized it was a mistake also. But
> nonetheless, with a family image being promoted by the city, how on
> earth could anyone be upset when families show up?
>
> Second, this is a city that is supported, in fact is built on tourism.
> When the strip fills up with people, why is anyone surprised at jay
> walking or people trying to beat the light? It comes with the
> territory. I don’t know how things are in Nevada, but in California
> and other states, a pedestrian caught in a crosswalk who’s light as
> changed against him/her, ALWAYS has the right of way.
>
> Finally, in a more serious vein, the intolerance expressed by both
> parties is disturbing. The Taxi cab driver who thinks a red/green
> light is the only rule, and the parent, who by pushing an infant is
> immune to the color of the light. The purpose of the “lights,” the
> crosswalk, the “rules” is to try and keep one another from being hurt,
> not to encourage it.

Glenn Burton wrote:

> All this noise directed against parents who take children to Las Vegas
> seems overblown to me. Don’t the casinos spend billions constructing
> attractions aimed at families with children? I doubt if die-hard
> gamblers go to Las Vegas for the Circus or the roller coasters.
>
> Isn’t Las Vegas being billed in the media as a “new” family
> destination? We’ve all read that there are many activities in Las
> Vegas suitable for children and that the prices are subsidized by
> gamblers … so why be surprised when people respond to the hype and
> come? Many of these parents who bring children to Las Vegas are
> probably on their first trip to Las Vegas and have no idea what the
> city is like. Some may not plan on gambling at all.
>
> I suggest that if you want to be angry at someone about bringing
> children to Las Vegas, direct your anger to the casino owners who are
> marketing their product to families and not against the families who
> respond.

Jack Hart (who originally wrote the letter about his experience with his young son in Las Vegas) wrote:

> Your readers comments to my letter, (subject — taxi drivers), printed
> in Access Vegas News attacked me for being in Las Vegas with my
> children. I would appreciate a rebuttal to comments made by R. Hirst
> and Mr. and Mrs. Cook of Calgary. First of all the issue had to do with
> vehicular intimidation by taxi drivers. Hirst called me a dimwit and
> an irresponsible parent. The Cook’s said they were “tired of being
> run over by strollers.” Their verbal attack and attitude displayed
> was ridiculous to say the least. These people are old people that
> should be the ones to stay away from Las Vegas. Keeping my children
> away with baby sitters is there answer to being run over by taxi
> drivers? What’s wrong with these people? I hope there are a better
> caliber of visitors to Las Vegas than these people.
> Please let R. Hirst know that he/she is not alone in his/her remarks
> about kids in Las Vegas (or any other gambling Mecca)!

J. Clayton wrote:

> We were in both Las Vegas and Laughlin some weeks ago. While in
> Laughlin, we stopped in at Burger King’s restaurant (in a corner of
> the Flamingo Hilton casino floor) at about 11:30PM to grab a Coke and
> some fries. As one would surmise, the place was the usual late night
> air full of smoke. … and even though I no longer smoke, I really
> don’t particularly care. However, a young couple with a literally
> ‘brand new’ baby (my ‘Better-Half’ guessed the age at less than a
> month) was sitting in the restaurant. Shortly after we arrived, they
> finished their meal and wandered (child in mother’s arms… carrier
> on father’s arm) off onto the casino floor to the slots.
>
> Question: What in the (expletive deleted!) are parents doing with a
> baby of that age up at that hour in a casino designed for adults?!
>
> You are absolutely right, R. Hirst, that people are trying to bend
> the adult playground of the World into a Disneyland for families! (As
> a matter of fact, I don’t even think kids can really get all of the
> fun out of the REAL Disneyland like adults can! …smiles!).

Kimberly Byers wrote:

> I have kids ranging in ages from 10 yrs to 19 yrs. We have been going to
> Las Vegas once a year for the past 5 years. Before you start slamming
> all parents and banning families maybe you should consider this. I have
> always taught my kids to respect the adult environment. They move
> quickly through casinos and only to go to the room or to eat. I realize
> this is not true with all kids but in this case it is. No one ever
> argues over who has to “watch” the kids. It is my pleasure. I never
> pretend its a family vacation. I make it one. Who are you to decide for
> me. I am glad to have these times with them and not leaving them at
> home. I’m glad your kids are grown and now you can enjoy yourselves. I
> am enjoying myself now. I dread the day when mine are gone! I’m not
> trying to be a goody goody. I drink a bit, I love to gamble and I also
> love being a mom. Too bad other people haven’t learned to incorporate
> families and kids into the real world. Don’t feel sorry for me. If it
> were up to me I would ban smokers and opinionated S.O.B. but then I
> would feel sorry for you.

Dean Di Mascio of Philadelphia, PA wrote”

> Dear Ted…. I very much enjoy reading your newsletter, a job well done!
> However, I’m becoming upset with the suggestion(s) by the many
> writers who say “if you have kids stay away from Las Vegas.” My wife,
> daughter (16) and I are big fans of Disney world, vacations and travel
> in general. We will be visiting Las Vegas in August and are looking
> forward to it. moreover, with all of the themed venues, attractions
> and natural settings and restaurants why should we not think of Las
> Vegas as a “family” detestation? I have an itinerary for our visit and
> it does not even include gaming. Although (smile) I’m sure my wife and
> I will lose some money in the casinos! But to those who wish to cling
> to the “old Las Vegas,” give it up I say. Like it or not Las Vegas
> has changed. Opened up to embrace families as well as
> “couples.”

Raymond Buchmueller wrote:

> Last year we took along our 6 and 8 year old to Vegas. We all had a
> great time. Just ask them where they want to go next holidays!
> Vegas. We just found that most Hotels buffet, the kids paid the same
> price was very unfair. How can a 45lb. kid pay the same price like a
> 250lb adult. Hats off to Luxor, and also Mirage. Maybe someone can
> let me know if other hotel have discount for kid on there buffet.

Rob McLeod of Calgary, Alberta wrote.

> We took our three boys (8, 10 and 12) to Vegas in May 1999 for 4
> nights. Contrary to most letters I have seen we had a good time with
> the kids. We stayed at Mandalay Bay and enjoyed the pool, lazy river,
> etc. We saw the Caesar’s Magical Empire which we all really enjoyed,
> spent a day at Circus Circus Adventuredome and a half day at
> Excalibur. On top of that we saw the volcano, pirate ship, the Coke
> museum, the Dive restaurant, the Luxor motion simulator ride, New York
> amusement area, etc., etc. The wife and I saw “Mystere” — we left the
> kids with the Aunt. I still got in 24 hours of gaming, we won’t talk
> about the net result.
>
> In my opinion, taking kids under 6 would pose problems. They need to
> be able to listen (“stay out of the casinos” and “don’t take the
> hooker magazines from the street vendors”) and be able to walk lots.
> But we had fun and would do it again.
>
> Great newsletter — keep it up! We will be there again, this time at
> the Luxor, no kids this time.

Las Vegas has not marketed itself as a family destination for years. This is a common misconception kept alive by bad comics and media reporters who have not done much homework. Only Circus Circus still “caters” to families to some extent although the company’s to most recent properties (Mandalay Bay and Luxor) are mostly adult-oriented.

In the early 90’s, casinos thought it would be a great idea to build theme parks and try to turn the town’s image from “sin city” to “family friendly.” Then they realized that they GOOFED because families take advantage of gaming-subsidized lower prices while children cut into the parent’s gambling time. Not cutting kids a break on buffets is just one subtle way many casinos are retracting the welcome mat from children.

Bellagio won’t allow children under 18 to enter the property unless they are guests. Hotels like the Riviera and Tropicana have used advertising slogans like “Where Adults Play” and “Rollers, Not Strollers” in the past couple of years. The MGM has taken out their theme park to build more convention space, suites and a Marriott hotel. If this seems extreme, note that children are not even allowed to enter casinos in Atlantic City.

I don’t have a particular agenda here. I sell rooms, not blackjack. If anything, a family makes me more commission, because they need two rooms or pay the extra that most hotels charge for more than two to a room. However, I’ve seen far too many little kids being pushed around late at night or in the hot sun, and these parents don’t look like they are having much fun. If you have young kids, you might consider leaving them with Grandma and spend a wonderful, relaxing, romantic time with your wife here in Las Vegas.

At the very least, consider not bring children until they are old enough to enjoy the experience and you are prepared to forgo the party / romance atmosphere that Las Vegas is now selling unless the children are in their teens and old enough to strike out on their own much of the time.

Don’t forget to vote in this week’s poll “Should people bring kids to Las Vegas?” at http://www.accessvegas.com

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

ONLINE POLL – “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last poll: “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?”

Stratosphere Tower 47%
Rio Voodoo Cafe / Lounge 24%
Paris Eiffel Tower 15%
Binion’s Ranch Steakhouse 7%
Polo Towers Lounge 5%

FREE CONTEST:

VEGAS FAMILY REUNION: Go to http://www.emsiweb.com/l.asp?c=atf&r=afri1&i=1633917&s=61 for your chance to win a Family Reunion weekend for up to 100 of your family & friends at your choice of locations in the U.S. (restrictions apply).

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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.
May 23, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 16, 2001

Posted on May 16, 2001October 21, 2008 by admin

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

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THIS ISSUE: Wolfgang Puck’s Cili

EDITOR’S NOTES: I’m back after a much-needed vacation. The amount of news and info I sift through each week is mind-boggling but I love Las Vegas! I added a short section about my trip for those who might be interested in a nice place to take a beach getaway.

Also, we’ve added four new cities to the 120+ destinations we offer with guaranteed low rates: Edinburgh (Scotland), Nice (France), Madrid (Spain), and Munich (Germany) at http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas and our city on sale this week (listed above) just happens to be Las Vegas.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HOT WEATHER – We just had a string of 100 or near 100 degree days, somewhat unusual for this early in the year but no indication of an unusually hot summer. However, bringing heavy clothes or a jacket to town between now and the end of September is pretty much unnecessary. Weather story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-10-Thu-2001/news/16065186.html

POOL PARTY – New York, New York as cranked up their Sizzling Summer Saturday Pool Party which is running now through Labor Day Weekend. It runs Saturday nights from 5 – 9 PM and features a DJ, dancing, contests, food specials, beer and cocktail availability, prizes and giveaways. Admission is $5 but includes a $3 off coupon for the Manhattan Express Roller Coaster. Hotel guests showing room key enter free and you can check New York, New York room prices and availability at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (New York, New York link).

MORE ROOMS – Caesars Palace announced Friday plans to build a 900 unit all-suites tower that will be ready for guests in 2004. This is on the heels of the all-suite Venetian finalizing their plans to go ahead with doubling their room inventory with a new tower. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-12-Sat-2001/business/16081286.html

COINLESS SLOTS – are coming, and there really isn’t a way to stop them. Fortunately, the technology is already out there that let’s you cash out on a machine, and take your receipt and stick it in another machine for play, eliminating waits for change and dirty hands. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-03-Thu-2001/business/16011220.html

CBS TELEVISION CITY – is open at the MGM. You can watch a preview of a possible TV show and be part of audience research. Screenings, which begin daily at 9 a.m. and are conducted every 20 minutes, are free. A booth outside the center takes sign-ups from participants. Coupons for $10 off on items in the retail shop are given out for watching the screenings. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/15915313.html

ALADDIN BUFFET – A reader recently wrote telling me that the Aladdin buffet had gone downhill to the point that the food was comparable to Denny’s. Because I often note that the Aladdin is one of the top three buffets on the Strip (along with Bellagio and Paris Las Vegas) I stopped in a few days ago to check. I’m pleased to report that is still well worth the $20 price and that the quantity and quality of the food from seafood to deserts continues to be topnotch.

BALLET – is coming to The Rio. In a rare alliance between casino and cultural entities, the Rio will host several Nevada Ballet Theatre performances at its $35 million, 1,500-seat Samba Theatre, including the holiday perennial “The Nutcracker.” Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/16043051.html

WETLANDS PARK – Phase one of the park is completed. The 130-acre nature preserve includes paved trails, ponds and wetland areas for wildlife. This first phase also features retaining rock walls to control flood erosion of the Las Vegas Wash. It is a real oasis in the middle of the desert, and they are recreating a wetlands that once filled the area. The park is in the Southwest part of the valley near Sam Boyd Stadium. To get there, drive east on Tropicana Avenue one mile past Boulder Highway, then turn left on the marked, unpaved road. Story at http://www.viewnews.com/2001/VIEW-May-09-Wed-2001/East/15998296.html

BEST ANIMAL EXHIBIT – Question: I know there are lots of animal exhibits in Las Vegas, but which ones are the best? Answer in a story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm

EX-FL – Although very popular in cities like Las Vegas, Orlando, and San Francisco, UPN backed out from broadcasting XFL games next year. This left the XFL without a network television outlet and thus the demise of the startup football league. The XFL was a weekly work-in-progress during the early part of the year, and by the time the talent started to gel and football announcing crews (as opposed to WWF-related broadcasters) were in the booth, people had tuned out and refused to tune back in. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/news/16075189.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/sports/16075134.html

ART IN VEGAS – Can Picasso and Renoir compete with topless revues and video poker? Will a museum exhibit draw the same crowds that scramble to see fighting pirates, dancing water fountains and exploding volcanoes? Las Vegas resorts are betting on it. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/010509/12/wkd-vegas-art

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

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

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

CELINE DION – A long-standing rumor (which we first mentioned last November) has come to pass. Celine Dion has indeed finished negotiation with Caesars Palace for a two year run in the new 4,000-seat Coliseum-themed theater built for her. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/news/16055569.html

JUNEFEST 9 – features Bad Company, Billy Squier, Journey, Molly Hatchet, Night Ranger, Styx, and Joe Stark. More info at http://www.junefest.com

MADONNA – is coming to town and tickets go on sale May 19 at http://events.excite.com/event_info?id=845400. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-03-Thu-2001/news/16012338.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Scintas (Rio) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-04-Fri-2001/weekly/15998841.html
* Storm (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-27-Fri-2001/weekly/15921496.html and http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_05_10/stage.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

EVENT LISTINGS:

* 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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* 808 (Caesars) – http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is not a regular feature, I have no plans to make this a general travel newsletter. I’m sharing a pleasant travel experience and in keeping with my editorial policy, none of this is a paid endorsement. If you are only interested in Vegas info, skip ahead.

MY VACATION – People often ask me where someone from Las Vegas goes to vacation. I go to see two things we don’t have here: a beach and green scenery. Last week, a number of friends of mine from all over the U.S. decided to spend an extended weekend on Florida’s Emerald Coast. It is an area that some Floridians teasingly call “L.A.” (lower Alabama) as this area is located on the Florida Panhandle directly below Alabama. However, this part of Florida is truly a best-kept vacation secret.

The beaches of the Emerald Coast consistently rank among the best in the U.S. by the Travel Channel because of their sugar white sand and the warm, turquoise Gulf of Mexico water. You actually get the best of the deep south with the wonderful southern hospitality and the best of Florida with the fantastic beach. Testament to this is that a number of people in our group were from Florida (South Beach, Ft. Myers, etc.) and pleasantly commented that they didn’t even know this area existed but would be back.

We stayed at the stunning Ramada Plaza Beach Resort right on the Gulf of Mexico between Ft. Walton Beach and Destin, FL on Okaloosa Island. None of our travel partners book this resort, but you can go directly to their site at http://www.ramadafwb.com and check it out for yourself.

Besides the ability to stumble out of one’s room and directly on to the beach (what a wake-up!) the hotel features beautiful grounds and Northwest Florida’s largest swimming pool accented with a five story Polynesian island where one may swim through the waterfall to the Grotto Bar. The best thing was price as resorts with similar surroundings and amenities in a more well known destinations can cost considerably more.

Destin, FL has been a second home to the well-off for quite some time. It wasn’t uncommon to see private jets flying out of the municipal airport and luxury cars on the road of this upscale beach town and you golfers may recognize the name of the neighboring Sandestin golf resort village ( http://www.sandestin.com ). As in Vegas, that meant that there was a great selection of fine dining ( http://coastalcuisinemenuguide.com/restaurants2.htm ) and shopping opportunities.

However, if listening to Jimmy Buffet style music play while you sip a drink at an open-air beach bar or dancing at a club is more your style, you won’t be disappointed. Places like The Back Porch ( http://www.backporchseafood.com ) and Pompano Joe’s ( http://www.pompanojoes.com ) are a couple of great beachfront restaurants that let you enjoy the cool breezes and beautiful Gulf whether you dine indoors or out.

For partying, AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar features dining in the day and evening and it turns into a party bar at night ( http://www.ajs-destin.com ). The Swamp Club on Okaloosa Island ( http://www.swampclub.com ) is a huge, rustic, two story totally club that features live bands and / or a DJ from 8 PM to 4 AM every day. If your raging party days are a little behind you, Howl at the Moon ( http://www.howlatthemoon.com/destinhowl.htm ) is on the same boardwalk and has a “dueling piano show” nightly. Me? I took it ALL in and never ran out of things to do the entire week.

Getting there is simple. Driving: It is within a days drive of all of most of the southern US. Flying: Okaloosa Regional Airport (airport code VPS — http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/airport.html ) is a scenic 20 minutes from Fort Walton Beach and 30 minutes from Destin. Air service is provided by Delta, Northwest, AirTran and US Air and major car rental services are available.

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

Thursday – 96 ░F / 71 ░F Sunny
Friday – 95 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Saturday – 96 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Sunday – 97 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Monday – 99 ░F / 70 ░F Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Wolfgang Puck’s Cili

Just a half mile south of Mandalay Bay sits what is now the only golf course on The Strip: Bali Hai. Course developer Billy Walters never does anything second rate. The course itself is a 7,015-yard, par 72 tropical golf paradise inspired by the landscape of the South Pacific with seven acres of water including an island green, 2,500 palm trees and over 100,000 tropical plants and flowers.

However, that wasn’t enough. So onboard came Wolfgang Puck to build the clubhouse restaurant. This isn’t your average “19’th hole” burger and beer stop, but a gourmet restaurant that happens to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus Sunday Brunch. The dining area is Polynesian themed with water, exotic relics, high arched ceilings, palms, and waterfalls. The dining area has a beautiful view of part of the course, overlooking foliage and water (patio seating is available).

Lunch features appetizers in the $10-16 range including standards such as poached shrimp “martini” cocktail to more unusual fare such as Balinese style satays with pork, chicken and shrimp. Lunch entrees and sandwiches run $12-18 and include sandwiches (with only twists a Puck establishment could think of) to rib-eye steak.

A bar menu is available from 3 PM to close and includes selections like Atlantic oysters on the half shell with mignonette, Herbed goat cheese with roasted peppers and olives, and Prime steak tartare with chopped egg, mustard aioli and sourdough croutons. The bar menu averages $12-15.

Dinner gives you a choice of American or Asian cuisine, although fans of Pucks restaurants know he takes liberties in mixing a wide variety of flavors. Highlights are the Grilled porterhouse steak with creamed spinach & potato gratin and Grilled salmon with stir fried rice, prawns & spicy bok choy. Of course, a wide variety of meat and seafood dishes prepared in various tempting configurations are available. Dinner entrees range from $21-38.00.

Cili is open seven days a week from 7 AM to 9 PM. It is open to the public and located in the Bali Hai Golf Club at 5160 Las Vegas Blvd. South (The Strip) 1/2 mile south of Mandalay Bay. Reservations are suggested but not required at 702-856-1000

EDITOR’S NOTE: I was swamped with letters (both pro and con) about kids in Las Vegas and will be printing those next week. We’ll let the “best view” poll go one more week, then introduce a poll asking how you all feel about kids in Las Vegas. This week, we’ll answer a pervious question: If someone only has one day in town, what would you show them?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

John Krogh wrote:
> A night helicopter ride over the strip…

Jessica Lehnert wrote:

> Take her to Caesars palace. The shopping alone is beyond belief but
> the casino, pool & shows are fabulous. You can sit in one place in
> Las Vegas & get a show! Lehnert

Jean H. or Waukesha, WI wrote:

> If you can drag yourself away from the tables and slot machines–I’d
> walk to visit and see every major casino on the strip. They all have
> such different themes and each one seems to be more spectacular than
> the next! I’d also watch the Pirate show at Treasure
> Island but I’d get there early and have a drink at the Battle Bar and
> enjoy the show from there. Also, I’d go downtown and eat at Hugo’s
> Cellar–one of my favorite restaurants in the US.

Madeleine from Canada wrote:

> Having been to Las Vegas regularly, since the late seventies, I think
> a newcomer to “Sin City” would enjoy the view from the top of the
> Stratosphere, at night. It’s magnificent!

Diane Podemski wrote:

> To answer Allen Waterman’s question of what one thing would you show a
> newcomer….it’s impossible to list only one!! I’ve been going to
> Vegas at least twice a year since I turned 21 (I’m 45 now) and there’s
> always something new and exciting to see. The cactus garden at the
> Ethel M chocolate factory is beautiful, the atrium at Bellagio is
> awesome, the Pirate Show at Treasure Island impressive and Danny Gans
> show at Mirage is great! Allen, you need to take more than one trip,
> make a list of “must sees” each time you go, it’ll take quite a few
> years before you can cross off everything!

Mick & Lyn of Essex, London wrote:

> I have only been to Vegas once and that was in Nov 2000 but I am
> looking forward to going back next year, we had a great time and
> everything was good but the thing that I really liked was walking
> along the strip at night and watching the fountains at Bellagio they
> were just great.

Allen Goenawein wrote:

> What you want to show someone depends on their
> interest. And there is plenty to show in and around
> Vegas. If you are the outdoors type, Red Rock Canyon
> is a nice half day trip. You will get to see wild
> burros, Indian pictographs, maybe some wild horses,
> plus a lot of great scenery. Or maybe Hoover dam would
> be more your style. Or take a flight over the Grand
> Canyon. In town are a host of new casinos to visit,
> one more beautiful than the next. Some of the finest
> shopping can be had at the Fashion Show Mall shopping
> center. All of the big names are located there. My
> favorite place to visit in the Fashion Show Mall is
> Centaur Galleries on the lower floor of the mall.
> There you can see art work from some of the greatest
> masters of the world. You can just look or if you are
> so inclined, you can purchase a fine art treasure to
> enjoy the rest of your life. Mr. Richard Perry is the
> owner and has resources all over the world that
> enables him to present some of the best art work from
> around the world. If you want to gamble, any of those
> above mentioned beautiful casinos will be glad to take
> your money, after all, that’s what they are in
> business for. But, maybe, the best thing to do is to
> hang out by a pool for three days, relax and let the
> world go by.

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

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

FREE CONTEST – Fly free to Vegas!

Every week now through June 10th, fodors.com is giving
away two round-trip tickets to anywhere US Airways flies
in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean. In the final
week (June 4th¡10th), you can go anywhere US Airways
flies including Europe.

You can enter the sweepstakes every week at:
http://www.accessvegas.com/foders.htm

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

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.
May 16, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 21, 2001

Posted on March 21, 2001October 1, 2014 by admin

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* Featured Travel Deals: http://www.accessvegas.com/traveldeals.htm
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm

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

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

This Issue: Imperial Palace

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: I’m doing some traveling this week, so I’m happy to present a guest review submitted by readers Russell and Gail Howard. Next week, the long awaited review of Blue Man Group. After that, WB Stage 16 Restaurant (if they ever get me their press kit — I like the place) and Excalibur Tournament of Kings. As always noted at the end of the “Letter’s To The Editor” section, guest reviews are gladly considered.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

V-BAR – at The Venetian continues to be a “best kept secret” hot spot, although it won’t be a secret for long. I am often asked where to go to spot celebrities, and with all of the upscale hotels and activities in town, I’d generally say “don’t waste your vacation time searching.” However, the V-Bar has probably become your best bet. Their staff notes recent visits by Julio Iglesias Jr., Charles Barkley, A.J. of the Backstreet Boys, and various actors in the past couple of months.

V-Bar is open from 4 PM to 4 AM daily. It is a somewhat intimate, upscale bar. The action doesn’t pick up until later in the evening, and a relaxed dress code is enforced (look nice). Even if you aren’t celeb hunting, it is a nice spot to take a date or just relax away from the tables for a while.

STORM – The delays in Mandalay Bay’s new show Storm is attributed to additional building inspections following some design changes during the construction of the set. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-20-Tue-2001/living/15666596.html In the wake of the 1980 fire at Bally’s (then called the MGM Grand, not to be confused with the huge green hotel now at Trop and The Strip), not only are building standards tighter but inspections are very comprehensive. Similar inspections delayed the openings of both The Venetian and The Aladdin.

BON JOVI WEDDING – Jon Bon Jovi and his wife Dorothea are going to renew their vows in Las Vegas at the same wedding chapel they married at 11 years ago. This time, they are turning it into a promotion with 75 couples in tow who won various radio station and other contests taking the plunge for the first time. The wedding will take place at the Graceland Wedding Chapel after Bon Jovi’s April 21 concert here. Full story at http://www.canoe.ca/JamMusic/mar21_bon-ap.html

LANCE BURTON’S – new special “Master Magician On The Road” airs March 31, 2001 on the Fox Family Channel. Check local listings for channel and time.

OSCAR ODDS – The “Vegas Line” on the Academy Award winners is up. You can’t actually bet on them, because Nevada law prohibits betting one anything where the outcome is known but they make a fun read at http://www.nypost.com/03222001/entertainment/27069.htm

CONVENTIONS – Chicago has long been the convention capital of the world, but Las Vegas and Orlando are after their business. The Las Vegas Convention Center is almost finished with construction that will double its size and both cities are touting themselves to convention planners as warm weather, resort alternatives to Chicago’s cold winters. Story at http://www.suntimes.com/output/business/conv16.html

CULT VEGAS – is the new book by Review-Journal entertainment writer Mike Weatherford. It combines his odd fascination with both Las Vegas and American pop culture. It includes both the standard icons like Sinatra and Elvis and the more offbeat and unusual. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-18-Sun-2001/living/15631075.html and the book is available from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0929712714/invegascom

SMOKING – Nevada has the highest death rate from smoking-related diseases in the country and some of the weakest tobacco laws in the United States, allowing smoking just about everywhere except public elevators and school buses. Hearings are underway to tighten those laws on a statewide level, but many are wary of the harsh restrictions of neighboring California, where smoking is even prohibited in bars. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-14-Wed-2001/news/15637012.html In relation to that, this week’s poll at http://www.accessvegas.com asks you “How do you feel about smoking in casinos”?

NO GRIZZLIES – As conjectured here a couple weeks ago, Las Vegas’ bid to land the NBA’s Vancouver Grizzlies was stymied because we refuse to give up legal sports betting. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-16-Fri-2001/sports/15657023.html

OFFICIAL? – You may have seen these “official” Las Vegas tourist info centers along the Strip, but many are just fronts for time-share pitches that prey on people overwhelmed with wondering what to do or see. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-13-Tue-2001/living/15593603.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

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

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Legends of Comedy (Frontier) – http://excursia.bestreadguide.com/lasvegas/stories/20010226/sho_comedylegends.shtml

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

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

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

Friday – 84 ░F / 58 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 85 ░F / 54 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 85 ░F / 52 ░F Partly Cloudy
Monday – 86 ░F / 51 ░F Mostly Sunny
Tuesday – 84 ░F / 51 ░F Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORY: Imperial Palace

by Russell and Gail Howard

We just returned from our third Vegas trip in three years, in fact our
second since last July, and were once again very, very pleased by the
Imperial Palace.

I know that opinions range widely on this older denizen of The Strip,
but our experiences have been quite fine there. Let me break down
why:

First, the rooms themselves. We have stayed in the standard rooms
(nothing to complain about at all, and a killer price), as well as the
mini-suite (“luv tub” rooms), which are oversized rooms with ENORMOUS
bathtubs, mirror canopy beds, balconies, and what feels like a lot of
extra room, also a great price at about 60 bucks a night. Our room is
mostly our headquarters for crashing when we’re in Vegas, and these
work great.

Second, the Casino. My wife is a slot player, and has done well. I
am a video poker player, and I vastly prefer 9/6 machines, which are
getting harder and harder to find for under a buck, but IP comes
through with several quarter machines. I can play for a long, long
time for ten bucks on a 9/6 quarter machine!

Third, one need not be a “high roller,” which I clearly am not, in
order to feel welcome / well treated at IP. For example, I perceive
that I get as many free cherry cokes (the teetotaler thing, again)
when I’m playing nickel video poker as I do when I decide to go hog
wild (for me) and play dollar video poker.

Fourth, the staff. I get to know a lot of the change booth folks and
the waitresses. Never, once, in three stays at IP have I had anything
less than a great experience with an employee. They actually seem to
enjoy what they are doing. I don’t know how you train folks for
friendliness, but something is working here. I seek to be polite, of
course, and try to tip enough that I am acknowledging people’s
efforts, though not exorbitantly, but I have found the team to be
first rate.

Fifth, the show. The most significant show at IP, in the winter when
the Luau thing is not happening, is “Legends in Concert,” which we
caught for the first time this past Wednesday night. I really don’t
like maitre’d seating, preferring reserved theatre seats, so I viewed
the seating setup as a minus. However, the show itself, which varies
from time to time, included dead-on “tributes” to Tina Turner,
Madonna, Rod Stewart, The Temptations (easily the crowd’s favorite),
Liza Minnelli, and Elvis. All the musicians do their own singing. The
dancers were attractive and well choreographed. We really enjoyed
this show. We would repeat it, though we would repeat it all the more
enthusiastically if the seating were theatre-style.

Sixth, the location. Absolutely unbeatable. Within three blocks of
Venetian, Treasure Island, Mirage, Harrah’s, Caesar’s, Bally’s, Paris,
and Bellagio. All are easy walking distance, if you like to
casino-hop. And if you catch the tram from Bally’s, you’re at MGM
with Monte Carlo, New York New York, Excalibur, Luxor, and the
Tropicana all with easy walking distance. You will not top IP’s
location.

We are a married couple, upper thirties. On this trip, we took my Mom
and dad along, upper sixties. We plan to take some other relatives
out to LV this fall, and look forward to another fun stay at the
Imperial Palace. We have become loyalists.

We just returned from our third Vegas trip in three years, in fact our
second since last July, and were once again very, very pleased by the
Imperial Palace.

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

Russell and Gail Howard hail from Lexington, Kentucky and enjoy visiting Las Vegas on a regular basis. You can contact them at (click) mailto:AshlndPstr@aol.com Legends In Concert is reviewed at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-11-01.htm and more info on the Imperial Palace is available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm (Imperial Palace link).

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

David Humphrey wrote:

> My wife and I will be in Las Vegas at the end of March. I would like
> to get your opinion and the opinions of your readers of how they
> spent their most romantic evening in Las Vegas (i.e., what shows did
> they see, what restaurants did they go to, what night clubs did they
> visit, any special attractions ….)

I’ll skip my opinion for now because I don’t want to influence what you readers might say. Take a minute and jot down where you take that someone special here in Las Vegas and email it to (click) mailto:romance@in-vegas.com (David: I don’t have your email address my laptop here. If you are headed to town before next week’s issue, email me again and I will forward the responses to you before publishing them).

Lynette from Palmyra, WI wrote:

> It is really unbelievable how un-objective the readers are in regards
> to your review of EFX. I liked Rick Springfield when I was younger too, but for
> cryin’ out loud, we all have a right to our own opinion. I thoroughly
> enjoy your newsletter and greatly appreciate your honesty, and
> furthermore, he is 20 years older now, so I’m sure your review is
> accurate. I wasn’t planning to go to EFX anyway, but I’m glad you
> saved me the time of even debating about it. We are coming to Vegas
> in July and are going to see BMG at the Luxor. We can’t wait; have
> you seen the show? How is it? I don’t recall seeing a review. Keep
> up the excellent work, this is very enjoyable reading. Love the
> reviews!!

Blue Man Group review is next week. I enjoyed it, but it is very stimulating to all the senses.

Bob and Barb wrote:

> I appreciate your review of the show (EFX Alive), since we already received
> tickets through the mail. Now I know exactly what to expect, and I
> can go into the show with the right attitude, and not be disappointed.
> P.S. I really enjoy your website, and the Rick Springfield fans —-
> get over it.

The show is still reasonably impressive overall, with the effects and involved cast. With any good fortune, Mr. Springfield will be in better health and settling more comfortably into the show.

Steve wrote:

> Hi Ted, I subscribe to your newsletter & find it well written and
> informative. Having just read the EFX letters you received, I find it
> a little disappointing that you received so many negative letters.
> You call ’em like you see ’em, & we are all entitled to our opinions.
> Sometimes I think people lose sight of that. I think looking at
> several sources of info is the best way to be informed and I count
> your newsletter as one of them when it comes to Las Vegas. Thanks
> again for all your time & effort.

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

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.

ONLINE POLL – How do you feel about smoking in casinos? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next!

Results from our last poll “Who (if anyone) do you come to Las Vegas with?”* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

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

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 21, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 28, 2001

Posted on February 28, 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.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: 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: Mac King

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 has been raining for 3 straight days here in Las Vegas (much needed, but I know it dampens a usually sunny Las Vegas vacation). However, that is child’s play compared to the earthquake that shook Seattle Wednesday morning. My brother and his family live in the area, and I fly through Sea-Tac on a regular basis getting a connecting flight to my hometown of Portland, OR.

From my talks with people flying SEA-LAS on my return trips, I know that people in the Seattle area love Las Vegas and assume we have pretty serious readership in that area (all we have are email addresses — except for tracking country domains, I have no clue where anyone who subscribes lives). To our friends in the Pacific Northwest, we are happy to hear that the loss of life and injuries was very minimal, and wish you and those around you the best over the next few weeks of cleanup and recovery.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

SIEGFRIED & ROY – have signed their new “lifetime” contract at The Mirage. The new contract stipulates a 44 week per year schedule, and eight shows a week (down from the 10 they were doing). Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-23-Fri-2001/weekly/15489863.html and http://news.excite.com/news/ap/010227/18/ent-siegfried-roy

NEW CAESARS TOWER – Caesars Palace is seeking permission to build a new 30-story, 864-room tower which will include restaurants, shops, meeting rooms, showrooms and underground parking. This would bring the resort’s room total to 3,300 rooms. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/010222/20/leisure-parkplace

DANCE CLUBS – The Aladdin and Caesars are working to throw their hat into the latest casino trend to build high-end nightclubs. The quest is on to make Las Vegas the “clubbing” capital of the world, and people from all over the world are taking notice and counting the clubs among their reasons for visiting. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-27-Tue-2001/business/15497157.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-25-Sun-2001/living/15496445.html

OUTLAWS – Despite ratings problems on NBC and predictions of sure demise, Las Vegas has embraced their XFL team in a huge way. The home games are selling out, the cheerleaders are turning into local celebrities, and ratings for all XFL games are high in the Las Vegas market. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-28-Wed-2001/sports/15537947.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-27-Tue-2001/living/15498081.html

LIBERACE – The Las Vegas estate once belonging to the flamboyant entertainer is now open for corporate gatherings and weddings. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-23-Fri-2001/weekly/15457773.html and booking info at http://www.lasvegasvilla.com

VANCOUVER GRIZZLIES – Las Vegas is one of the cities said to be in the running for the relocation of this NBA team. Don’t bet on it: Despite being the 39’th largest media market in the country (larger than NBA cities Indianapolis and Orlando), the NBA wouldn’t agree to bring a team to town unless NBA sports betting was banned. Story at http://www.usatoday.com/usatonline/20010227/3096596s.htm

JUST A REMINDER – Prostitution is illegal in Clark County, Nevada (the New Jersey sized county that contains Las Vegas). A Minnesota man was recently found dead in his Tropicana hotel room, the suspected victim of a robbery by a prostitute. Full story at http://www.pioneerplanet.com/seven-days/sun/news/docs/035204.htm

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Kenny Kerr – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-23-Fri-2001/weekly/15486245.html

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Tremezzo (Aladdin) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-28-Wed-2001/living/15496117.html

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

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

Thursday – 60 ░F / 42 ░F Mostly Cloudy
Friday – 65 ░F / 40 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 67 ░F / 38 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 70 ░F / 43 ░F Scattered Showers
Monday – 75 ░F / 45 ░F Partly Cloudy

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

FEATURE STORY: Mac King

I’m pretty happy. It’s been a while since I’ve seen a bad show. The odds are in my favor as I tend to review only established shows so we know they will be here when you get here, and if a show has been around a while (with few exceptions) it usually is making its target audience happy.

Mac King has been playing Harrah’s for over a year, shouldn’t need an introduction. He has appeared on television shows ranging from “An Evening At The Improv” to all five of NBC’s “World’s Greatest Magic” specials. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, upon seeing him you will remember him as “the guy who did the funny magic on TV.” And funny, Mac King is!

He takes the stage in a vintage plaid suit (vintage early 1900, not vintage disco era) with a story about a rope trick his grandfather taught him. You’ve seen rope tricks before? Not presented quite this way. From the first moment, you can tell that despite his sometimes silly demeanor, he has the craft of magic down.

King brings out an old fashioned chest containing his props and you never know what he is going to pull out of it next. Unlike Carrot Top, whose props are the joke themselves, Mac uses everything from worms to goldfish to a box of cereal to a stuffed tiger to perform “how did he do that” magic while leaving you laughing in the aisles. The finale is a “tribute” to Siegfried and Roy in which he makes both himself and a stuffed tiger disappear that reappear in a funny but spectacular way.

Eschewing assistants, King interacts with members from the audience using volunteers to help him in a couple of his more impressive illusions in this one-man show. It is pretty clear these aren’t audience plants. In fact, if you see this show the day or two after your wedding, you might end up on stage helping in the “Cloak of Invisibility” trick where Mac puts on a yellow rain coat, tells us to pretend he is invisible, then moves cards from the new wife to the new husband without touching either of them.

This is the best show deal in town. Period. You can’t go wrong paying $14.95 for the hour plus show, and the hour flies by. Plus, it is a perfect way to break up your afternoon gambling or sightseeing (or just recover from that “all-I-did-eat” buffet), give your feet a rest and your mind some refreshment.

Mac King Ticket Info

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Last week, Cindy Hoplamazian asked if there are any good Chinese or Thai restaurants in Las Vegas. We appreciate all who responded. P. F. Changs (with a location in The Aladdin) was suggested by a number of people. Others had the following favorites:

Tom Maher wrote:

>Some of the best Asian food in town is at the China
>Town complex off of Spring Mtn. Rd. It is wonderful
>authentic food, not your Mall variety garbage. Plan to
>spend a couple of hours, the shops are very
>interesting. I buy all of my herbal medications from
>the health food store here. Very inexpensive.

China Town shopping area is on Spring Mountain, about a mile (maybe two) west of Treasure Island.

Rita Hawn-Muldoon wrote:

>One of my favorites is P.F.á Changs.á There is one on the strip near
>Paradise and one on the west side of town.á They are nicely decorated,
>busy and the food is great.
>
>I also like China Grill at Mandalay Bay.á It is very upscale and
>pricey however, but very hip.

David Feldman wrote:

>That’s easy.á It’s the best Thai restaurant in North America according
>to Gourmet Magazine, and I concur.á Lotus of Siam on 953 E.á Sahara.
>Although they have a luncheon buffet, I strongly urge your readers to
>order a la carte off the extensive menu.

Lotus of Siam is a few blocks east of The Sahara Hotel.

Jim of Madera California wrote:

>We just returned from another “week plus” split between Las Vegas and
>Laughlin.
>
>This time we took the tour through the Shark Tank at the Mandalay Bay
>Casino.á For those of you who have not been there, it is well worth
>the modest $14 or so, as well as about an hour plus of your time.á We
>have been through the Monterey Bay Aquarium (CA) several times as well
>as others around the nation.á This live display is one of the best.
>Billed as the largest collection of sea predators, it contains
>numerous varieties of sharks, eels, etc., in their natural habitat and
>lighting.á A “station-to-station” radio player and a complete
>identification chart is provided to each person while you walk through
>and past the tanks.á Yes, THROUGH!á A Plexiglas tunnel is provided at
>one point so that you may walk “inside” the tank and sit on benches
>with the fishes swimming around you.
>
>For those of you who have already been to the exhibit (and are
>curious!), the brash sounds you hear periodically while visiting the
>last display (the sunken ship) are underwater recordings of what
>”creaking planks” sound like from a sunken wooden ship (bet you didn’t
>know that one!).
>
>A must see attraction!

Jim included the Shark Reef website at http://www.mandalaybay.com/entertainment/sharkreef.html and you can read our review (with photos) at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-12.htm Note: They didn’t have the “radio players” yet when we were there (something we suggested in the review) and I’m sure that adds immensely to the experience now.

Doug and Jaynie Hoerauf wrote:

>Hi!
>
>We were out in Las Vegas last weekend for a long weekend.á We found
>the Casino Royale very friendly.á Every time we were in there the
>staff was very friendly and the drinks were really cheap.á We played
>video poker for hours with very little cash lost.
>
>We did a Hoover Dam trip (on our own) and stopped in Boulder City for
>lunch at Toto’s Mexican Restaurant.á The food was really good and
>there was plenty of it.á The service was excellent and the beer ice
>cold.á What more can you ask for?
>
>We thought that the World buffet at the Rio was overrated.

I’m a big fan of Casino Royale. Their parking garage is a best kept secret (right behind the hotel, gives you quick access to Harrah’s, Venetian, Mirage), and when friends that like to booze come to town, I just tell them “Casino Royale: import beer and a shot of name-brand booze for $4.00 total.” Plus, the staff is very friendly.

The Rio buffet is really hit and miss. It was a novelty as the first “station” buffet in Las Vegas (different ethnic food stations) but pay the extra $3-4 and go to the Aladdin buffet where the food is topnotch and the decor colors don’t scream at you.

Nick Lubrano wrote:

>Dear Ted,I know it was an honest mistake or a typo
>but, in your article referring to Earnhardt you used
>the term “infamous” in describing him .I’m calling
>this to your attention before someone else makes a big
>deal out of it. Really enjoy your news letter.

Thanks for the heads up. One of the definitions of infamous is
notorious. I was attempting to find a word that described the
wide variety of emotions various race fans felt toward him
(he was either adored or despised) and looking back,
I could have used a better choice of words. I know that NASCAR fans are very passionate about their sport and certainly didn’t mean to offend anyone.

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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.

Mac King T-Shirt: We have two Mac King T-shirts (XL, one size fits all) to give away. Both have been autographed by Mac himself and are a fun piece of Las Vegas memorabilia. We’ll give one each away the entries #20 and #40 at (contest closed)

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AIRLINE SPECIALS – Purchase your Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air flight online at alaskaair.com or horizonair.com by March 9, 2001 and you’ll save 10% on travel. This discount is valid for travel between now and June 30, 2001. Alaska and Horizon serve Las Vegas from many destinations in the west. Buy at http://www.alaskaair.com

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 next week!

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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!

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.
February 28, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 1, 2000

Posted on November 1, 2000October 1, 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: Legends In Concert

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

SURPRISE WEDDING – FOX TV (U.S.) can’t get enough of doing wacky specials in Las Vegas. The network that gave us “Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire” and “America’s Sexiest Bachelor” now brings you “Surprise Wedding” in which seven engaged women bring their boyfriends to Las Vegas under false pretenses, then spring a wedding on them.

WORLD GAMING – As usual, last week’s World Gaming convention featured the latest and greatest slots and experimental games, each of which the manufacturers hope will be hitting the casino floors soon. Of particular interest were blackjack tables where you play against a video dealer, roulette tables with a real spinning wheel and ball but no dealer, and a number of new variations of blackjack (these with a real dealer).

We even played a 400-play video poker game! Yes, you play 400 hands at a time, which means that even playing nickels fully loaded (5 coins in per hand) is a cool $100 a hand. (Note: all games are in demonstration mode at the convention. You don’t risk nor win any money). We’ll be giving away some goodies we picked up next week, and you can read the R-J’s take on the convention at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-21-Sat-2000/business/14643344.html

THE PALMS – is the name of the new upscale hotel casino under construction across and just down from The Rio on Flamingo. Full story at http://www.abqjournal.com/biz/158313biz10-25-00.htm

CALL ME A CAB? – If you had trouble getting a cab to or from The Rio last week, you were not alone. The cab drivers staged a boycott because the Rio doorman were diverting guests whom wanted to go to topless clubs to the hotel’s limos instead of the cab drivers. Why the fuss? Topless clubs pay cab drivers $10 per person (basically a kickback of the entrance fee). The Rio limo drivers were kicking back some of the money to the doorman. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-26-Thu-2000/news/14686460.html Me? I rent a car when I travel.

ELVIS – The jumpsuit that “The King” wore in 1974 and 1975 and that is pictured on the cover “Promise Land” and “75 Las Vegas Summer Festival menu” is on display at the Tropicana’s Casino Legends Hall of Fame through the end of the year. This “Peacock” jumpsuit was know to be one of Elvis’ favorites, and was custom designed by he and Bill Belew. The Hall of Fame is open 7 AM to 9 PM. Admission is $4 adult, $3 children and you can read our review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-09-15.htm

REAGAN NATIONAL – Washington, DC is Las Vegas’ 13’th largest visitor market, sending a half million people a year here and I’m happy to report that both National Airlines and America West have started their service from the centrally located DC airport. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-25-Wed-2000/business/14678267.html

CIGARS – “Smoke ’em if you got ’em” here in Las Vegas. The rising tobacco tax and public smoking ban put a read damper on the cigar trend of a few years ago, but Las Vegas is still a place you can light up and enjoy. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-19-Thu-2000/living/14604997.html

SAFE AND CHEAP? – According to CNN, booking online is safe because “technology takes the credit card numbers and encrypts them, making them unreadable to humans and most computers” and cheaper because “the Web presents travel vendors with an opportunity to sell their product at a lower cost. If they can sell it at a lower cost, they can also pass on those savings to the consumer.” Full story at http://www.cnn.com/TRAVEL/ESSENTIALS/ADVISOR/9810/online.booking/index.html

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

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Red Square (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00092801d.html
* Spice Buffet (Aladdin) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/09_21_00/dining_taste.html and http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00102601d.html
* Trattoria del Lupo (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/10_19_00/dining_taste.html

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

DE LA GUARDA – The controversial new show has opened at The Rio:
* Story – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-20-Fri-2000/weekly/14617946.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-20-Fri-2000/business/14647216.html
* Review – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-27-Fri-2000/weekly/14675015.html
* Tickets – http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1

C2K NIGHTCLUB – is open again. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-20-Fri-2000/news/14647549.html

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

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

Wednesday – 69/48 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 65/40 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 66/43 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 67/45 Scattered Showers
Sunday – 71/44 Scattered Showers

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FEATURE STORY: Legends In Concert

legends.jpg (26314 bytes) Legends In Concert is one of those shows that people always say “We should get around to seeing that sometime because it looks like fun.” If you are a fan of pop music of the past 40 years or so, quit putting it off!

Legends has been bringing favorite entertainers to life at the Imperial Palace since 1983. This is NOT karaoke or some look-alikes lip-synching (fake singing to a tape). These entertainers dress the part, are almost perfect dead ringers for the celebrities they imitate, and use their own vocals to fill the role. In addition to the superstar recreations, the show features a full troupe of dancers and background singers; a live, onstage orchestra; full array of solid special effects including multimedia and lasers; and great lighting and sound effects.

The “cast” of impersonators varies. A youthful Rod Stewart opened the show with a short, energetic set and probably the sexiest of the costumes the dancers would wear all night (the show features no nudity). From there, The Righteous Brothers (who play Las Vegas on a regular basis) were portrayed in their prime, as was the case with all of the acts. Madonna came out with a talented and sexy set that gave you the impression that the lady impersonating the icon had studied everything about her both on and off the stage.

“The Temptations” did the longest set of the night, and were a huge hit with the predominantly middle-age and older (40+) crowd, which showed enthusiastic approval! Marylyn Monroe was somewhat of a deviation from the pop star theme, but sang a couple of breathy numbers, had plenty of audience interaction, and brought one gentleman up on stage for a time that he won’t soon forget.

Elvis wrapped up the show with two segments: one as the young Elvis, and then the finale featuring the older “Las Vegas” Elvis complete with jump suit singing Viva Las Vegas with the full cast of the show and the dancers in full showgirl regalia, bringing the evening to a powerful conclusion.

Legends will be fun for anyone, but is particularly aimed at those who appreciate the stars from the 50’s through the 80’s (hence the designation “Legends”). It plays at the Imperial Palace nightly at 7:30 and 10:30 PM (dark Sunday). Tickets are $34.50 and include tax, tip, and two drinks. Children under 13 are $19.50.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

We were swamped with letters over the past two weeks with people relating their Las Vegas wedding advice and experiences. They were all great, and we don’t have room for them here, so we put them online for you to read at http://www.accessvegas.com/wedding-stories.htm A big thanks to all who wrote!

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

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

Results from last weeks poll “Would you prefer Digital Blackjack (dealer hits button, computer “deals” on a screen) to traditional blackjack?”

* I like it to the old way — I can play against a computer at home. 19%
* Some of the new electronic gambling games are fun, but I want real cards at a blackjack table. 16%
* I’d like it because the game moves along faster. 43%
* Get rid of the dealer too — I’d rather play a machine. 20%

FREE CONTESTS:

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

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

LAS VEGAS DINING GUIDE – Put out by the Review-Journal. One copy to 20’th entry at (contest closed)

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 17, 2000

Posted on May 17, 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:

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: Cook E. Jarr, Jimmy Hopper

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:

CONSTRUCTION – The Strip keeps growing and changing! Caesars Palace is tossing $60 million at the place to change the old facade (it’s about time), move some restaurants, and build a nightclub. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-15-Mon-2000/business/13555513.html Stratosphere owner Carl Icahn is thinking about spending $15 million to put another ride at the top of the tower. It also appears he’s finally finishing up the second tower and adding a decent pool and rec center which will be a welcome addition to an otherwise pretty nice property. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-15-Mon-2000/business/13569800.html Word has it that if the Venetian continues to show a profit through the end of the year, they will begin construction on their second tower.

DINING – There are no end to the stories highlighting the great dining opportunities here in Las Vegas. The Miami Herald recently published at article at http://www.herald.com/content/tue/living/travel/docs/086803.htm about the upscale Las Vegas restaurants of chefs like Wolfgang Puck, Julian Serrano, Charlie Palmer, and Emeril Lagasse. A recent Toledo Blade article at http://www.toledoblade.com/editorial/smith/0e16smit.htm talks about Le Cirque in the Bellagio.

Piero Selvaggio has brought Valentino to The Venetian. It’s extensive wine list has 1600 labels from the major wine making regions of the world. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-17-Wed-2000/lifestyles/13553376.html City Life reviewed the relatively new Pink Taco Mexican restaurant inside the Hard Rock at http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00051801d.html

PLAYBOY – is hosting Club Rio’s Playboy Special Edition Party this Friday night at Club Rio. Playboy models will be present and women can sign up for interviews and casting calls to be held at a later date. Doors open at 10:30 PM. Admission is $10 for men, $5 for women.

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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

FOOTLOOSE – The musical (adapted from with movie with all the hit songs) starts it’s run at The Rio. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Rio discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Rio link).

Hard Rock – Robin Trower on May 26, Ozzy Osbourne on June 15, Ringo Starr on June 17, Don Henley on July 10, and No Doubt with Black Eyed Peas on July 31. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Junefest – This annual classic rock festival is the party of the year for many locals and tourists alike. This year’s lineup: Sammy Hagar, George Thorogood, Pat Benatar, Paul Rodgers, BTO, and Mark Farner plus a “huge fireworks display” after the show. Tickets are only $25.96 and available at (888) 464-2468.

Mandalay Bay – David Sandborn on May 19, Kenny Wayne Shepherd on May 20, Motorhead on May 21, Toto on May 26, Jerry Lee Lewis on May 26, Jefferson Starship on May 27, The Young Dubliners on May 28, Pato Banton on Jun. 1, Cowboy Junkies on Jun. 3, Chaka Khan and The Village People on Jun 5, Megadeth on Jun. 23, Queensryche on June 16 and 17, Cheap Trick on July 3, Boz Scaggs on Jul 8, Dan Folgerberg on Jul. 14, Hall and Oats on July 21, LeAnn Rimes on Jul. 28, and the BB King Blues Festival 2000 on Aug. 1. 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 – Rodger Waters on June 17, Blink-182 and Bad Religion on June 24,Rodney Dangerfield on July 6-12 and again on Aug. 24-Sept. 6. Tickets are $85 and available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

SJ2K – KLUC Summer Jam 2000 features SisQo, Nu Flavor, Kumbia Kings, Pink, Voice V, Angelina and more on June 10 at the Thomas and Mack Center. Tickets available at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is 2 blocks from the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

The Orleans – Peter, Paul, and Mary May 19-21 and Air Supply on May 26-28. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

FEATURE STORY: Cook E. Jarr, Jimmy Hopper

Las Vegas has seen a real trend away from production shows and back toward headlining entertainment, with performers like Danny Gans and Clint Holmes now lighting up the Las Vegas Strip. However, the one thing this city has always been known for are it’s lounges and lounge acts. For free (or the price of a drink), these musicians keep people entertained night after night after night. In fact, the Review-Journal just had a great piece on what it’s like to be a Las Vegas lounge act at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-16-Tue-2000/lifestyles/13439055.html

Two of Las Vegas’ most popular lounge acts have been the infamous Cook E. Jarr and Jimmy Hopper. Although their repertoire and styles have little in common, both are over-the-top entertainers in the true Las Vegas tradition. More interesting is that both have just attempted somewhat of a jump from being a lounge act to that of more of a headliner entertainer.

COOK E. JARR – No, that’s not his real name, but that doesn’t matter. He is known to the world as the “Jarr Man”. You have seen him on MTV, VH1, movies, and most recently in the A&E Las Vegas City Confidential that aired last week. People like Tom Jones, George Carlin, The Righteous Brothers, and more show up to see him when they are in town.

cook-e-jarr-jones.jpg (11634 bytes) Jarr (seen at left with Tom Jones) has performed in lounges on and off the Strip for years, and recently made the jump to the Improv room on the second floor of Harrah’s. We were pleased to see his opening show last Friday night along with about 30 crazies from the BigEmpire.Com ( http://www.bigempire.com ) crew. As always, Cook put on a solid 2-plus hours of standards, soul, funk and just about anything else you could dance to! Got a request? Just “Tip the Jarr” — he knows thousands of songs.

On the downside, we are a little disappointed at the new digs and feel it really detracted from all that is Cook E. Jarr. Seating is done my maitre d’, the only cocktail service is cocktail waitresses, and the room is just too big and dark. Great for a comedy show, not a performer. Cook is a “man of the people” and excels in places where there is foot traffic walking by, where people have the comfort of coming and going, and where you can hear the whoops from the craps table in the background. Where he can be a roving party!

While glad to see him at a big name casino where he belongs, I implore the staff at Harrah’s to move him to the new outdoor lounge area. With the new bar, the dancing area, and the foot traffic, Cook would be stopping everybody dead in their tracks!

Cook E. Jarr plays upstairs at the Improv room at Harrah’s at midnight on Friday and Saturday. Two drink minimum. You can see more of him and his famous fans at http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr

JIMMY HOPPER – is another guy we really like. He’s been tearing up the Voodoo Lounge high atop The Rio for the past couple of years, packing them in and making a name for himself. In fact, he’s been able to woo people away from the spectacular outdoor view up there and attract standing room only crowds.

jimmy-hopper.jpg (12397 bytes) Word spread quickly, and the Luxor was quick to give him a headlining shot in their RA nightclub. RA is perfectly suited to Jimmy’s eclectic look and style. This guy is John Tesh on acid, and his music is a melodious sonic assault in the very best way!

He and his 5 piece band profess a love for any and all music, and he proved it with a set list that went from Sinatra to Bocelli (“Time to Say Goodbye”, which many know as the Bellagio theme from their commercials and fountain show). He did a solid Neil Diamond, a comical Cher (always a highlight of his act), and a superb Motown medley. He is not an impressionist — you will recognize and enjoy the songs, but he and his band add their own touches and flair.

He is still getting his “stage feet”. He’s good with the crowd, but understandably not yet Wayne Newton or Cook E. Jarr when it comes to really creating that bond. We are sure that will come with time, and after a couple more months we’ll check him out again and give you an update.

Worth the $32.50? Mmmmmmm … yes if you enjoy a seeing a great vocalist front a very talented band. If you like instrumental jazz, Motown, and the standards “kicked up a notch” (thanks, Emeril), go. You’ll really enjoy the show. Otherwise, you might want to wait. The performance is great, the band is tight, but he is just getting that “headliner” experience.

Jimmy Hopper plays The Luxor Tuesday – Saturday at 7:30 PM. Tickets are 32.50 plus tax. Seating is general admission, and much more comfortable than most showrooms. Drinks are available at the bar. Jimmy has a website at http://www.jimmyhopper.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Karen Rodems wrote:

> On September 26,1999 my husband and I arrived for a 5 night stay
>at Lady Luck. We paid $105 each for 5 nights.
>Friends of ours planned to spend 7 nights in LV beginning Sept.
>30.2000. Fitgeralds is totally booked & Lady Luck seems to have
>increased their rates four fold. Why have the room rates Down town
>increased so much? Also why is it so difficult to get a room this
>year in September? We have visited LV five times , always at the end
>of September and we have never had a problem getting a room Down
>town. We wonder why it is so difficult now.

Hotels frown on Saturday arrivals. It usually means a room sits empty
on Friday nights. Also, fall is prime time here. While the rest of
the country is in the grips of fall, we still have pool weather.
There also appears to be some minor conventions in town at that time.

http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm is showing Fitgeralds at $59.95 for the
weekend dates and 49.95 for the weekdays (subject to change — rates fluctuate like airline ticket prices due to demand). If they can move their arrival back to Friday night, they can get Las Vegas Club (very
comparable to Fitz and Lady Luck) for $45.95 every single night.

While we do get a small commission on each sale (similar to what a
travel agent gets), we link to
http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm because they reserve blocks of rooms ahead of time and get a volume discount.
They can then turn around pass that discount along to you. This also
means that they are often sitting on rooms when the hotel is “sold
out”. On top of that, they have a low price guarantee. Not a bad
deal in our book!

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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 – “Have you ever considered moving to Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

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.

Klondike Casino coupon sheet with 4 free late night breakfast and 4 free pasta or chicken dinners (24 hours). Both require regular restaurant beverage purchase. The Klondike is a small, local’s casino 2 blocks south of Mandalay Bay. Expires 6/13/00 so please only enter if you can use it. 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!

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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:

* 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 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
below

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 2, 2000

Posted on February 2, 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:

* 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
* Find Lowest Airfares: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

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

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This Issue: Rio Seafood Buffet

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

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DO YOU TRAVEL? Get your faxes, email, voicemail, and even set up conference calls from home or on the road right from your computer. Check and receive from your computer or by phone! All this for only $9.95 a month at http://cognibox.com/?tedinvgas

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LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

FOUR DIAMOND ROOMS – Las Vegas now has more AAA Four Diamond rooms than any other U.S. city with the addition of Treasure Island to that status. The others are The Mirage, Bellagio, Golden Nugget, Desert Inn, Caesars and the Las Vegas Hilton (all of which we book at http://www.accessvegas.com ). Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-02-Wed-2000/business/12876061.html In addition, Caesars is looking at adding a new tower to capitalize on their views of Paris and Bellagio as well as their prime location. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-02-Wed-2000/business/12873066.html

BINION’S STEAK – update: the infamous late night steak is now only served 11 PM to 5 AM Sunday through Thursday night, and they price has been raised to $4.99 As much as I love downtown, unless you are staying downtown skip it and head over to Ellis Island just behind Bally’s at Flamingo and Koval (about a 10 minute walk from Ballys). This local’s casino is newly remodeled, clean, friendly and offers a similar steak special 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for $4.95 (if not on menu, ask for it). Plus, you can sample the microbrews they brew right at the casino. We still do highly recommend the $5.95 prime rib served noon until midnight in the coffee shop of The Plaza hotel downtown. Great meal for the money!

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY – was a huge success despite the fact that the game ended up right on the number which resulted on many bets being refunded. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-01-Tue-2000/business/12867821.html

SPEAKING OF GAMBLING – on sports, a number of members of the U.S. Congress have introduced legislation to ban betting on college athletics. Of course, we know that NO betting on amateur athletics EVER happens anywhere outside of Nevada. NEVER. It wasn’t that long ago that Washington quit telling us to drive 65 miles an hour on desert freeway and now this. Obviously, we are less than pleased and while we have no intentions of turning this into a political newsletter, we will follow this and give you the opportunity to write your representatives if you enjoy betting sports here in Las Vegas. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-31-Mon-2000/business/12853938.html

MEGABUCKS – More information on the women who won the $34,959,458, her options on how to take the payout, and her plans for the money at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-28-Fri-2000/news/12846373.html

RUN OF THE HOUSE – How would you like to be a fly on the wall at casino management and board meetings with unrestricted access to interview just about anyone you wanted to? Pete Earley was granted just that by the Mandalay Bay Group. He also interviews people ranging from cabbies to hookers in his quest to give us the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at the “new” Las Vegas. Review is at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-01-Tue-2000/lifestyles/12807048.html and you can purchase it from Amazon for 30% off at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0553095021/invegascom

LAUGHLIN – from time to time, we get asked about this little jewel on the shores of the Colorado River 90 minutes south of Las Vegas. A recent Jeff Wolf article primarily focused on the SCORE off-road racing series but also talks about Laughlin itself later in the article at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-28-Fri-2000/sports/12847125.html

WILD WILD WEST – Las Vegas is often thought of the “cowboy west” but few people make it past the neon. Which is too bad, because the desert is a beautiful, fun, calming place. Sandy Valley sits 45 short minutes from Las Vegas along the CA / NV border. It is still pretty much the middle of nowhere and the Sandy Valley Ranch offers trail rides ranging from half-day to overnight. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-03-Thu-2000/lifestyles/12826242.html Note: 2 years ago, I was over there and found out that they don’t have a service station in Sandy Valley. So fuel up before you go!

Winner: Renee Borden of Providence, RI won the Rio beads. The winner of last week’s t-shirt never responded. So, you all have another chance at it this week!

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

Michael Paskevich reviewed every showroom in Las Vegas recently. Not the shows, but the actual rooms themselves. Interesting facts to know at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-28-Fri-2000/weekly/12830007.html

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BUSINESS TRAVELERS: Keep the boss happy and pocket some cash! Pick from the from the 120+ destinations offered at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm for booking business travel. Get the guarenteed low rates, and YOU get to pocket the $25 rebate at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm (you must book during this month). Do you book rental cars? Try http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005 and access the best rates from the major companies.

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FEATURE STORY: RIO SEAFOOD BUFFET

$27 for a buffet. No kidding. And that used to be for lunch or dinner until they dropped serving lunch last week. Is it worth it? That depends how much do you like seafood and how much can you eat.

The Rio Seafood Buffet (not to be confused with the regular Carnival World Buffet) is a seafood lovers delight. If it comes out of the ocean, they have some! Varieties of clam dishes, scallops, shrimp, oriental seafood delights, oysters, halibut, and swordfish in lanostino sauce to name a few.

Add in all the you-peel shrimp and crab legs you could eat. Then go get your choice of white fish, mussels, calanari or scallops with your choice of vegetable grilled to order . Got the kids along? Various breaded and fried fish as well as french fries were available. Someone doesn’t like fish? They were carving prime rib, serving BBQ steak and there was a fair amount of pasta, Mexican, and other more traditional buffet fare, all of which was top-notch quality.

The desert? I always judge the quality by the cheesecake, and I couldn’t finish the whole slice. Very good! The service was attentive, and for those so inclined a fairly substantial wine list was available as well as other adult beverages.

So what’s the verdict? When compared to what the same quantity, variety, and quality would cost in a traditional restaurant, you can’t go wrong for the money. Especially when you toss in desert, you couldn’t get this anywhere else for under $30 a head. However, for an upscale dining experience, it was a little too buffet-ish for my tastes. The surroundings were pleasant, but nothing special and no nicer than half of the other buffets in town. The music was a little too uptempo loud. There was a line at the desert bar because they served each person individually.

Unless you just don’t want to leave the Rio or you adore seafood, take the 5 minute ride over to Bellagio which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dinner runs $4 cheaper than the Rio Seafood Buffet and the atmosphere is more upscale, quiet and relaxed. While not having the huge selection of fish, Bellagio features a nice seafood variety, including PEELED shrimp. Plus, their desert bar is comparable but self-serve so you don’t feel like a child at Halloween or have to wait in line. You can view our Bellagio buffet review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-12-15.htm

The Rio Seafood buffet is open 4 – 10 PM on weekdays and until 11 PM on weekends. Admission is $27 per person every single day.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

D.áLee of Casper, WY writes:

>My husband & I spent 4 nights recently.á We stayed in a very nice room
>at the Golden Nugget.á We usually go at least once a year and have
>stayed at that hotel that went under, Excalibur, Rio, and Palace
>Station.á The hotel and restaurant staff were exceptional and nice (!)
>compared to our previous stays.á Some folks don’t like the downtown
>atmosphere, but we found the savory more than made-up for the
>unsavory.á Upon returning home a letter from the Golden Nugget
>establishment came and invited us back.á What a class act.á The
>Nugget’s buffet is back in action (it was temporarily closed, during
>the stay), but we did manage to fit in the dinner buffet.á Our server
>was a young gentleman from Peru who took the time to connect with us &
>we welcomed him to come see the Tetons of our home state.á However, I
>included his tip on our room’s ticket which was credited with a $25
>food & bev allowance.á Well, I didn’t realize until we got home that
>the serving staff may not get the tip in this manner.á 1000 apologies
>to our server who so sincerely gave us delightful hospitality.á Anyone
>who has the chance make-up for our shortcoming, will you?

The Golden Nugget is the class of downtown. Perhaps not the best gaming rules, but 11 other casinos are within a 5 minute walk if that is important to you.

Jean H. of Waukesha WI writes:

>I thought Wayne Newton made an interesting statement when I saw him on
>TV over New Year’s Eve.á They were interviewing him about his upcoming
>long-term gig at the Stardust and he said: I believe that when people
>come to Vegas they want to know who is in town while they visit.
>Since entertainment, like every other industry, has it’s cycles–I
>believe we’re going to see a come back of more single entertainers and
>a moving away from the large production type shows.
>
>When I heard him say this, I really felt Mr. Newton had hit the nail
>on the head.á I know that when we visit, the first thing we do is go
>to the web and see “who’s going to be in town”, whether its a
>comedian, band/music act, special sports event or whatever!á Mostly,
>though, we’re interested to see what “headliners” are going to be
>there.á We often do book these events, if it’s someone we really want
>to see.
>
>When we look back on all our various entertainment venues we’ve see
>over the years, the only one I’ve really not cared for was a major
>production show–now not playing anymore.
>
>I do hope that the entertainment gurus of Las Vegas listen to Mr.
>Newton–and give the public what they want—more headliners!á What do
>you think?á Know of any statistics to prove me right or wrong?

Wayne is building up his own show, which we hope to check out soon. We certainly try to list in advance who will be here and how you can get tickets, but for now production shows appear to be going very strong. We have an updated list of coming events (including headliners) at http://www.accessvegas.com/events.htm courtesy of Las Vegas tourism legend Billhere. While you are at that page, make sure to sign up for his free newsletter. It is informative, and generally covers different ground than we do here.

Chuck and Charleen wrote:

>Our son recently was married at the Little Chapel of the Flowers.á The
>minister did a nice job of adding some personal comments to the
>program even though the process was rushed.á The photographer did a
>less than acceptable job on the outside pictures.á They were too far
>away from the bride/groom and/or others and many of the pictures were
>not in proper focus.á For the money invested the pictures proved to be
>less than professional.á A bad rap for such a business.
>
>In making plans for this wedding and related reception we contacted a
>lot of the hotels that you recommended.á We found them very pricey in
>terms of lodging and very expensive in terms of a reception.á We did
>make contact with the Super 8 Motel on Koval Avenue and encountered an
>extremely helpful sales manager by the name of Diane Webber Work who
>went out of her way to arrange for block room rates, arranging for a
>private reception in a large banquet room to accommodate 40+ wedding
>participants and with her own money secured a wedding cake.á We were
>extremely impressed with the staff of Super 8 and with the staff of
>the adjacent Ellis Island who catered our wedding reception.á The
>staff of both places were extremely accommodating and friendly.á We
>highly recommend them for the quality of service provided and for the
>costs of their banquet food items and lodging.
>
>We did enjoy our visit to a variety of the other hotels and casinos
>where we took in several shows and eating establishments.á I must add
>that the worst buffet we encountered was at the Riviera where the food
>tasted like it was a week old.
>
>Your city has a lot to offer and we hope each of the establishments
>and the taxicab services recognize that they have a lot to offer and
>that all should make every effort to market the city with a positive
>attitude similar to what we encountered at the Super 8 and the Ellis
>Island Casino.

It’s always tough to suggest hotels for people. We have readers that stay downtown and won’t pay more than $30 a night for a room, and others who won’t come to town if they can’t get the Mirage. Our suggestions also generally take into account that fact that most people prefer to stay on the Strip, although we are certainly fans of Ellis Island.

For those considering getting married in Las Vegas, please understand that these weddings are “in and out” type of deals. It’s almost like an assembly line. If you want something more, contact Jon Jacobs over at http://www.lvweddings.com — tell him we sent you and he will give you a discount. He’s arranged weddings in helicopters, up on Mt. Charleston, Red Rock Canyon, and weddings to accommodate various size groups. Plus, he knows every chapel in town and isn’t tied to any one of them. Making the most of your day is his #1 concern, and he can put together a great package for almost any budget.

As for buffets, the Riviera has to be one of the worst for the money. Go to the Sahara buffet if money is an issue, otherwise the new Stardust buffet is actually pretty good if you are up that direction.

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GET A LIMO AND GO IN STYLE! – You might not fly in first class, but leave you can leave the airport that way! Or, imagine taking a limo ride down the neon-lit Las Vegas Strip. Find limo service rentals anywhere in the world – no cost or obligation! Request multiple quotes so you can save time & money by clicking to http://www.limos.com/search/limos.asp?cid=x228933&exc=0

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THIS WEEKS POLL – “How many times a year do you visit Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in next weeks issue!

RESULTS FROM LAST WEEK: AccessVegas.Com Poll
What is your favorite nightclub in Las Vegas??

Utopia 0%
Studio 54 (MGM) 11%
C2K (Venetian) 11%
The Drink 0%
RA ( Luxor) 33%
Trax (Palace Station) 0%
The Beach 22%
Club Rio 22%

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.

LAS VEGAS 2000 – 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!

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

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https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to
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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 30, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 23, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 16, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 21, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 28, 2001

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 1, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 17, 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.

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 2, 2000

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