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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 5, 2009

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AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – We had a scheduled week off last week and then I lost a couple of days to food poisoning this week, so plenty to cover in this edition. Let’s jump right in!

Pimping The Trop – The new owners of the Tropicana are going to dump $100 million into the aging resort and giving it a South Beach (Miami) theme. For some reason, many in the local media really like to trash-talk the Trop. But the property has a great tradition, history, and location and I’d opine that with new (but very experienced) management and the upgrades, the Trop will once again be one of Las Vegas’ talked about resorts.

Secondary beneficiaries will be MGM Mirage (the company) who own pretty much every surrounding hotel (except for Hooters). With only so much to do and see at Tropicana, the visitors drawn by the new South Beach vibe will spill over to spend their cash at MGM Mirage properties.

In the meantime, the Trop has joined the list of Vegas casinos with advertising on the side of their building. I took the above photo just a couple of days ago. (Twitter was down, or it would have ended up on our Access Vegas Twitter Feed).

New Strip Casino Approved – The vacant building just north of The Sahara has been approved as the spot for a new casino project. Unlike the zillion dollar projects that have struggled to get finished (or never got started in the first place), this project will be far more cozy with a modest size casino, a restaurant, and some retail. A 98 foot electric sign will help draw attention to the property. (Imagine being able to watch the Superbowl on that one).

I’m bullish on the north Strip area. Fontainebleau will eventually open. Echelon (former Stardust property) will eventually be developed, although probably not in the original incarnation. (Think anybody at Boyd gaming is feeling like an idiot for knocking down the Stardust)? The former Wet and Wild property (just south of Sahara) will see development. Perhaps something similar to this new casino if it does OK.

This new casino will help bridge the gap between The Sahara and Stratosphere, making the entire area seem more walkable and seamless. And… work is already underway to improve the neighborhood between the two areas. Reference: Pair taking steps to clean up Gateway District

Second Home Tip – With housing prices completely in the ditch here, I know that many regular visitors are doing the math on buying a vacation home here. No hotel bills and the ability to keep a modest second car in Las Vegas start to make this option pretty attractive. (Not to mention that it looks to be a good long-term investment).

My suggestion? Scope out the area just west of I-15 and north of Sahara Blvd. You’ll find everything from town homes (no maintenance) to single family homes to mansions in the area bounded by Charleston to the north, Sahara to the south, I-15 to the east and Valley View to the west. Do NOT let your real estate broker talk you into something way out in the suburbs. You can to Vegas to play and party. NOT to spend half your vacation fighting traffic like a local.

New Bus Routes For Visitors – A new express bus system will be serving The Strip and downtown starting in January, speeding passengers with more limited stops. The present bus route (The Deuce) will continue run the length of The Strip from Mandalay Bay to Palace Station. This is not a misprint. The Deuce will head up The Strip, then make a left turn onto Sahara and over to Palace Station. Think about this: If you buy a vacation town home within walking distance of Palace Station, you won’t even need a car here. Walk to the bus, and ride to/from the airport or anywhere on The Strip.

But What A Way To Go – A man recently committed suicide at the Welcome To Las Vegas Sign while sitting is his car early in the morning. (For those wondering, the iconic sign is just a couple of long blocks south of Mandalay Bay). Things like this always bring up the statistic of Las Vegas having the 4’th highest suicide rate in the country.

However… let’s keep in mind that this figure includes people who come here to end it all, and also people who call it a day when they move here and find out there is no instant pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. With an unemployment rate approaching 13%, I once again remind everyone: Enjoy visiting. There has never been a better time, lower room rates or more to do and see. But don’t move here if you are going to need a job.

Las Vegas Club Shows Off Upgrades – This casino has really fallen through the cracks over the years. I’d guess if you asked 95% of visitors where it is, they couldn’t tell you it is located downtown next to The Plaza and Golden Gate.

All that may change soon. Major remodeling, upgrades to food, entertainment, and gaming are designed to bring more attention to this historic property. We sent photographer Greg McFalls down to capture some pictures:

party pit blackjack las vegas 2009
Las Vegas Club “Party” Gaming Pit Area

party pit blackjack las vegas 2009
Las Vegas Club Hotel Casino Photos

Hint: Each photo above links to a different complete photo set.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

Bally’s from $39, El Cortez from $13, Fitzgeralds from $22, Hooters from $20, Orleans from $28, Riviera from $27, Sahara from $30, Stratosphere from $38, Tropicana from $25, Tuscany from $24, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Legendary Entertainer Bill Cosby Shares Humor, Insights At The Treasure Island Theatre, September 5 – Iconic funny man Bill Cosby, who has been making audiences laugh for decades with his keen insight into everyday existence, brings his signature comedy to the Treasure Island Theatre for one night only, September 5. Showtimes are 7:30 and 10 p.m. In an illustrious career defined by intelligent standup comedy, Cosby ranks as one of America’s most influential stars. Audiences adore Cosby’s take on the vast, ordinary world, as he gives a twist of the ridiculous to everyday faults, foibles and successes.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas Introduces Paradise Tower – Next Phase of $750 Million Expansion Opens Ahead Of Schedule Adding 490 Guest Rooms To Inventory And Creating Jobs – Opening July 31, Paradise Tower becomes the newest addition to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The highly anticipated project, completed almost two months ahead of schedule, has created jobs and hope as the Las Vegas horizon begins to see signs of resurgence.

Just as Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is known in a sense for upping the game in Las Vegas, the new Paradise Tower steps up the Hard Rock’s game on the hotel side. The tower’s 490 lavish rooms were designed with the property’s signature party attitude in mind but with a jolt of sexy sophistication. Hotel devotees will notice a significantly more luxurious atmosphere in Paradise Tower, but without sacrificing the irreverent, anything-can-happen feeling that they’ve come to expect.

Rock Legend AC/DC Bring Black Ice World Tour To MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, October 3 – Multi-platinum rock legend AC/DC announced it will bring its highly successful Black Ice World Tour, which kicked off in October 2008, to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Oct. 3. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. AC/DC’s newest album, Black Ice, is its first in more than eight years and was released worldwide in October 2008. Evident that the band remains an incredible force in the rock industry, Black Ice made history when it debuted at No. 1 on album charts in 29 countries.

Hash House A Go Go Hosts Viewing Party For Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” – Festivities Include Appetizers, Drink Specials and Raffle Drawings. Hash House A Go Go, Mix 94.1, Jack FM and party attendees What: Hash House a Go Go teams up with Mix 94.1 and Jack FM to host a viewing party for the Las Vegas episode of “Man v. Food,” which features the restaurant’s twisted farm food. There will be happy hour prices on drinks featuring $2 domestic 20-ounce drafts, $3 imported drafts and $3 well drinks. For non-drinkers, Hash House’s signature Kiwi Watermelon Lemonade, featured in the show, will be available for only $1 and the first 50 people to arrive at the event will get their first drink free.

Attendees can also enjoy complimentary big food appetizers including meatloaf sandwich skewers; mini double stack ham, egg and cheese burgers; mini chicken and waffle bites. Raffle drawings will be held throughout the evening where guests have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes including concert tickets and a $100 gift card to Hash House A Go Go.

When: Wednesday, August 12 9 p.m. until 11 p.m. (10 p.m. “Man v. Food” airs) Where: Hash House A Go Go 6800 W. Sahara Avenue. For reservations or inquiries, please call 702-804-4646 or visit www.hashhouseagogo.com

Las Vegas Deals

These are only a few of the many Easy Vegas Deals we find each and every week (many of which happen too quickly for newsletter deadline). For a complete and constantly updated listing:

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

First, I want to say that I REALLY enjoy your newsletter. I have gone to Las Vegas at least once a year for at least 25 years. I used to have a travel agency make hotel arrangements but finally just contacted the hotels and made my own arrangements.

However, I notice you advertise I4Vegas and I notice their room rates are cheaper than what I could make myself but I don’t know how safe it would be to use I4Vegas. I wouldn’t think you would advertise something that would turn out to be a gyp. But I am wondering if I should use them or not.

Thanks,

Clearnce from Garden City, Kansas

Ted Responds:

Their rates are cheaper because they buy blocks of rooms at wholesale well ahead of time. The hotels are happy to know the rooms are “sold” (they don’t have to market those blocks of rooms) and i4Vegas passes the savings along to you. Hotels across the country have this same arrangement with companies like Expedia as well.

These aren’t some kind of “bad” or undesirable rooms. Regardless of how you booked (with the exception of booking a special suite or similar arrangement directly with the hotel), the hotel basically places you in rooms based on when you arrive. They have every incentive to use their best rooms (most updated, best views) regardless of how you booked. They want to leave a nice impression so that you’ll come back time after time again to their property.

Seriously, if any of our readers aren’t visiting our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals before booking, you may be paying too much. They consistently have some of the lowest rates for hotels here in Las Vegas. And… even if they may be $1-2 more a night than someone else on the particular hotel you are looking to book, consider using them anyway. I4Vegas is one of the great sponsors that keep this newsletter complimentary. Please click on the link above and bookmark it so you always have access to it!

My wife and I used to vacation in Las Vegas at least once a year for the last 30 years. We have seen the rapid expansion of the Strip, especially the last 15 years. It was fun to vacation in L.V. Everything used to be cheap, cheap, cheap – the rooms, the food, minimum gambling limits. Not anymore. We just returned from a 4 day visit. The only thing cheap were the rooms. Food was outrageously expensive. Breakfast buffets average $12 on the Strip. That used to be the average price for a dinner buffet a few years ago. Gambling limits were $15 at the Blackjack tables on the Strip. This was the first time in 30 years that I didn’t spend a dime on gambling in Las Vegas.

I used to drop an average of $600 each time I visited L.V. (that is over $18,000) in the last 30 years. You might wonder why I always lost money. I used to gamble an average of $150 a day and did it for the fun. I used to stay at a table for over 16 hours straight until the money was gone for the day. It is no fun anymore when the limits are $15 minimum. I like staying on the Strip and not veer from it but I can’t afford the limits anymore.

My friends were planning a trip for September to L.V. but have changed their minds about going after I told them how expensive everything was. That is unfortunate. You are definitely on the right track that the people running Las Vegas casinos have no clue how to make more money. It is at the gambling tables, not the buffets. While I will still go to L.V. from time to time, I won’t be gambling there until they lower their limits to $5 again.

K.G. from Vancouver, Canada.

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the input. The days of $5 table limits up and down The Strip are probably gone. If nothing else, due to inflation. (Today’s $10-15 limit is the $3-5 limit of the 70’s and 80’s).

The super low room prices still do help balance the cost of other things. You won’t find a comparable room in any other city for anywhere near the price of a Las Vegas room.

Remember, 15 years ago there was no Bellagio, Venetian, Mandalay Bay and Wynn. Most of the casinos on The Strip were on par with what you now find downtown.

Having said that, it would be nice to see a few more loss leaders. Cheap food and booze used to get people in the door, and the properties made it back at the tables and slots.

I look forward to getting your very informative emails. Just can’t say enough to my friends about you, when they ask where to get great info on Vegas. Just turning 70, I still try to get to Vegas twice a year… spring and fall. áJust curious: I’ve stayed at a number of hotels, but ususally stay at the Sahara. Not much glitz, but laid back and with the monorail, easilyy accesible to The Strip. Whats your general opinion of the Sahara?

Again..thank you so very much for the great job with your emails on Sin City. People think I’m kidding when I say it’s a great place to unwind, especially with the magnificent mountain views and “indoor scenery” of the hotels.. GREAT JOB!!!!

Ray from Buffalo, NY

Ted Responds:

Thanks so much for telling all your friends about us! It really does help. As I’ve said before, we are independent. We aren’t owned by a big newspaper or other media group. Our readership consistently increases because our readers are telling their friends and online pals.

I personally like the Sahara for all the reasons you mentioned. I’d also suggest trying the Riviera. We just were there a few days ago and the property is in good shape, rooms were remodeled less than two years ago, really a piece of “old school” Vegas. You don’t have the monorail, but you are a short walk from Wynn and everything else.

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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 19
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 26-29 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 18-20 (3 day weekend)
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 7
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

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

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

All contents copyright 2009 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

August 5, 2009 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 11, 2008

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Hot and windy is the word here this week. Those constant 100 degree days look like they are here to stay for the summer. Still… there is something nice about being able to enjoy the Las Vegas Strip well into the evening and late night without getting chilly. Speaking of summer parties and events…

What do you get by adding one part Ditch Friday pool party and one part LA Sunset Tan? One amazing afternoon at Palms Las Vegas!

Ditch Friday Pool Party Palms Las Vegas

LA Sunset Tan launched their 2008 Sexy Swimwear Collection with a poolside fashion show at Ditch Friday on May 30’th. (Another tough assignment for news editor/photographer Mark Jacobs). Ditch Friday is the weekly Friday afternoon lounge/party at The Palms pool area and features live musical performances, prize giveaways, and designer fashion shows throughout the summer.

This weekly event runs through October 3, 2008 and is open to the public ($20 cover, local ladies complimentary).

LA Sunset Tan Bikini Show

At this event, the entire cast of E!’s hit reality show “Sunset Tan” was on hand including the Ollie Girls, LA Sunset Tan owners Devin Haman and Jeff Bozz, Janelle Perry, Nick D’Anna, Ania Migdal and Erin Tietsort and can be seen in many of the following photos:

Spamalot closes in about one month so this is your last chance to see it on Las Vegas. Click on the Spamalot button in the right sidebar of this newsletter to save on some of the final tickets available!

We receive weekly reader email expressing concern over what many of you feel that Las Vegas has become. Everything went so upscale that the price of visiting went through the roof. At the same time, the slots and table games both got tighter. To top it off, traveling to Las Vegas from international destinations continues to get more difficult.

A word to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Bureau and our elected leaders: You can advertise internationally all you like, but until it gets less difficult for worldwide visitors to get here… much of that advertising will fall on deaf ears.

In addition, Nevada has two prominent U.S. Senators that should be doing something about about this. Stopping terrorism is one thing, but harassing people with two-hour waits in immigration lines at the airport is out-of-line. Perhaps Senators Reid and Ensign (both of who are in powerful positions working on the coming elections) shouldn’t forget that the state they represent relies especially on international visitors because of current local worldwide economics.

What can you as readers do? Continue to write a “Letter To The Editor” of our Review-Journal newspaper (as it is read by the politicians).

Last month, the Sunday paper contained a number of protest letters (scroll down that page to Shakedown and the following letters). Time for more of them!

Don’t be shy… You can submit your own comments to our local paper online at:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/about/print/press/letterstoeditor.html

Don’t assume the “other guy” will do it. If our readers unite and bombard our paper, you’ll see plenty of new coverage our politicians can’t ignore.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To An Event Near You!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Tina Turner, Neil Diamond, ColdPlay, Jimmy Buffett, Radiohead, Jonas Brothers, The Police, Kenny Chesney, Dave Matthews Band, Rush, Tim McGraw, Eric Clapton, New Kids On The Block, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Las Vegas Showgirls Shine On In Jubilee! at Bally’s

by Lincoln Hudson

Having observed how the Las Vegas Strip has dramatically changed over the years in order to exclusively cater to the palette of the under thirties, sometimes it is good to come across a show that makes one pinch oneself and remember the entertainment that built Las Vegas and continues to cater to adults of all ages.

One of the shows doing such is Jubilee! at Bally’s Hotel and Casino. If you need a break from watching French Canadian clowns pushing life size plastic balls across the stage, then Jubilee! is the right piece of camp, topless, musical brain candy for you.

Click to Read Entire Jubilee! Las Vegas Review…

Madonna’s Yummy “Sticky & Sweet Tour” Lands At MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, November 8 – Madonna, the world’s sweetheart, has announced more non-stop treats for her legions of legendary and devoted fans. (Tickets) Following the latest news that her album Hard Candy has debuted at No. 1 around the globe, it has been confirmed that Madonna’s “Sticky & Sweet Tour” will stop at the MGM Grand Garden Arena November 8 and 9, 2008. Click to Read The Full Story … Free Cash For Gas Promotion Rolls Out At The Tropicana – The Tropicana Las Vegas introduces the “Roll 4 Gas” promotion, allowing guests a chance at winning $100 cash for gas. “With the continual increase in gas prices, who wouldn’t want a chance at winning cash to help pay for travel expenses?” says John Sevilla, Tropicana’s Hotel General Manager. To participate in the “Roll 4 Gas promotion,” simply book a room at the Tropicana for travel during the dates of May 25 – August 28, 2008. Upon arrival, during check-in at the hotel’s front desk, roll four dice for a chance to win. The different outcomes, earn certain prizes: Click to Read The Full Story …The Showgirl Goes On With New Block Of Tickets For Sale – Performances Through The End Of 2008 Of Bette Midler’s Vegas Hit On Sale Now – Mark your calendars because Bette Midler is back! Returning on June 24 from her hugely successful opening in February, The Divine Miss M. is celebrating her next set of shows by putting 29 more up for sale. (Tickets) As of Sunday, June 1 Midler fans can reserve tickets to see her sassy stage show during performances from October through December 2008. “If you haven’t been to Vegas to see me,” says Midler, “hop a plane or steal a car, but get your butt out here. I’m giving Sin City a roasting and toasting she’ll never forget.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Denver Dancer Cheryl Loves Performing In ‘Crazy Girls’ Nightly – Cheryl move to Las Vegas from Denver five years ago and never looked back after joining “Crazy Girls” as a professional dancer in 2005 at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. (Tickets) Dance was always a good behavior reward from her parents. She said, “I grew up as an only child and my mother was a secretary and my father worked as a building inspector. I feel like I’ve been dancing my whole life. I’m living my dream now. Click to Read The Full Story …

Country Superstar Alan Jackson Takes The Stage At Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, August 16 – Country superstar Alan Jackson will perform live in concert at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, Aug. 16. (Tickets) The “Good Time” tour will complement Jackson’s most recent album release, Good Time, as well as his impressive catalog of crowd-pleasing, chart-topping hits. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. The single “Good Time” from Jackson’s new Arista Nashville album, is a honky-tonk jam that is tremendously easygoing yet edgy. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: N-k-d Eskimo – with Victor H. Royer. No, this article is not about the famous poker player Eskimo Clark, clothed or otherwise. It is instead a fable from a time more innocent, a time of great joy, and a time when poker was not just a game û it was an event. The time is 1983, in the weeks spanning Christmas and New YearÆs festivities. It is a story personal to me, and one that to this day warms my heart. It is also a story of something quite funny û but IÆm getting ahead of myself. First, letÆs set the stage à Click to Read Complete Article…

Editors Note: We aren’t trying to play Wheel of Fortune with the article title. Certain words trigger spam filters which could prohibit this newsletter from reaching you.

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $59, Flamingo from $59, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $38, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $48, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just a question about taxi fares. Do the drivers charge a flat rate or do they charge by the person?Thank you,
Shirley

Ted Responds:

Up to 5 can ride for the same price. They charge per mile (plus an initial fee and wait time) but there is no extra per-person charge.

There is a coupon for the additional Maine lobster tail. Ordinarily you are charged $5.99. They are hard to find. Could you do some research and find out where you can get the coupon?

Also there is supposed to be a discount coupon for the buffet at the Rio as well.

Thanks,

MikeTed Responds:With so many different coupon books and tourist magazines floating around town (and the fact that any coupons or offers in them can change weekly), tracking or finding one particular coupon is next to impossible.

Best advice is to flip through the tourist magazines when you hit town and see if there is a coupon for something you specifically want to do or see.

In general, a couple of notes on coupons:

1. Don’t use one to go out of your way to something you weren’t already interested in. Your time here is often short and precious. Spending an hour or two going out of your way to save a few bucks on something you aren’t sure about can turn into a waste of time.

2. Don’t expect to find coupons for the top shows. If you have one or more “must see” shows, buy the tickets in advance or you may face a sold-out situation when you arrive.

Hope this helps,

Hi Ted,

My wife & I have just got home to England from our annual trip to your wonderful city. We saw some great shows, the Rat Pack was one of the best ever. The Dean Martin impersonator was almost as good as the “Dean” himself. We will be back next year (hope we recognise the place with all the new buildings) for our yearly pick me up.

By for now,

John & Jean (Manchester)

Ted Responds:

The Rat Pack Is Back is one of those often overlooked shows that always seems to get raves from those who check it out. Adding to the ambiance is the very retro showroom at The Plaza hosting the show. We’ll be sending a writer to do a full review soon.

In the meantime, those wanting to enjoy the show for themselves can click to The Rat Pack Is Back Tickets

Hi, My husband and I just returned from Vegas. we had the the best time at the Cher concert. What a lovely lady she is and her show was worth the trip.

I love Vegas! Keep up the good job you do on your newsletter. I read it every time.

Thank You,

Kay

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

  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 11, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 9, 2008

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Can’t see all the great photos and graphics? Click to Read This Issue Online! Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com

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Book Online or over the phone! Call 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! It’s the most wonderful time of the year. No jingle bells here. I’m talking about how we are heading into those precious few weeks where the high temperature is around 85 or 90 (F) with a low around 60. In my book, it doesn’t get much better. With our dry climate, 90 is great and during this time, and it is never too hot or too cold.

Spring Membership Drive!

No, we aren’t going to ask for your money or promise you a DVD for a $60 pledge. (Note to self… maybe that isn’t a bad idea).

This newsletter is always sent at no charge and we are keeping it that way. As you can imagine, tremendous time and effort goes into each issue and we love to be your connection to Las Vegas. We’d love to serve you even better: Trip-a-month giveaways, tons of free tix, prizes, Vegas stuff plus even more extra expanded coverage of all the great things you email and ask about.

So how can you help us help you? Simple:

We need every reader to tell their friends and co-workers to check up out and subscribe. More readers = even more clout = even more pull to get you better information, deals, and offers.

1. There are people in your email address book that visit or are thinking about visiting Las Vegas and you may not even know it! How about sending an email blast to all your relatives, business associates, friends and/or everyone else and just saying “You know I love Vegas and always know what is happening. I want to help spread the wealth! Please head over to http://www.accessvegas.com/newsletter and check out the best Las Vegas information anywhere.

2. You may belong to a club or organization that has a message board, bulletin board, or newsletter that allows member postings and classifieds. Put in a mention for us!

3. Some of you enjoy reading various online travel forums and blogs. Make sure when you participate you let all your online friends and the readers know you enjoy our information, and to come on by and sign up!

4. Do the stores, restaurants, and other businesses you visit have a free-for-all cork board where people can post misc. stuff? Grab a few 3×5 cards, write “Free Insider Las Vegas Newsletter AccessVegas.com” and stick a few up around town.

We very much appreciate it. Our resources go into publishing the newsletter. We rely on you to help spread the word.

More Cher Tickets On Sale – We’ve had numbers of emails from people saying “I’m coming later in the year, how come no Cher dates?” September and October Cher tickets are finally on sale! Click to Cher Caesars Palace Las Vegas Tickets.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Featured Review:
Folies Bergere – Timeless Showgirls and Classic Entertainment

by Chuck Stanec

Raw. Provocative. Sexy. Alluring. Just a few words among many that can be used to describe Les Folies Bergere at the Tropicana. If you’re looking for a trip into Las Vegas past, this is it — without the DeLorean.

When one thinks of old Vegas, they envision the big, bold shows with the tall and supple women and the huge, bright feathers that adorn them. The energy, the passion, and the colors all appease the senses as you’re engulfed into history. The transient experience makes it feel as if you can walk out of the theater and sit down with Dean, Frank, and Sammy for a drink.

Click to Read Entire Folies Bergere Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Stomp Out Loud – A Journey Through Rhythm and Percussion

by Erin Guernsey

For those seeking high-energy entertainment, comedic antics and pure theatrical brilliance look no further than Stomp Out Loud located at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Don’t let the show’s humble opening of one lonely cast member sweeping the stage fool you as it barely gives a hint of what is to come.

Every night the talented performers take audience members on a journey through the world of rhythm and percussion. The show throws the definition of a traditional musical instrument out the window by creating magnificent sounds from the most random objects such as keys, lighters, trash cans and lids, brooms, sand, plastic bags and of course à kitchen sinks.

Click to Read Entire Stomp Out Loud Las Vegas Review…

Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble And Josh Groban To Perform In Concert At Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, May 23 To Pay Tribute To Songwriter And Producer David Foster – A one-night-only concert celebration featuring music’s most beloved stars including Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble and Josh Groban, will take place Friday, May 23 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. (Tickets) The event, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will pay tribute to the celebrated songwriter and producer David Foster. Foster also will perform the hits he has written or produced with many of the artists with whom he has worked over the course of his 35-year career. Click to Read The Full Story … ‘Crazy Girl’ Lizzie Comes From Family Of ‘Just The 11 Of Us’ – Elizabeth “Lizzie” Grantham has that girl-next-door look and is the newest resident of Green Valley after buying a newer repo. The Memphis-born dancer has lived in Las Vegas since the age of 12 and is the second to the youngest of nine children but she has performed in “Crazy Girls” (Tickets) at the Riviera Hotel & Casino for three years. “I was born in Memphis, and I actually began my dance training there at age 8 in this little dance studio. It wasn’t until I arrived in Las Vegas,where I went to junior high and high school, that I got serious about dance. I learned a lot about choreography at the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts where I attended high school and was a dance major.” Click to Read The Full Story …

“Tim McGraw ’08 Live Your Voice Tour” Lands At Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, June 21 – Tim McGraw was accompanied by wife Faith Hill and completed “Soul2Soul II”, the most successful consecutive multi-year tours in country music history. Now, the popular headliner and country music icon returns to touring as a solo act and will bring the “Tim McGraw ’08 Live Your Voice Tour” (Tickets) to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, June 21. The concert, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature special guests Jason Aldean and Halfway To Hazard (David Tolliver and Chad Warrix). Click to Read The Full Story …

David Letterman’s Intern Reigns At ‘Crazy Girls’ – Magician Tony Douglas Referred To As “Chicken Salad Sandwich Guy” – Tony Douglas is a native of Long Island who has been performing magic and comedy practically all of his life but the newcomer to “Crazy Girls” (Tickets) was brought onboard because of the repeat customers. Tony started at the bottom as an intern for CBS’ “The Late Show” as David Letterman’s “Chicken Salad Sandwich Guy.” His energy and demeanor on-stage is contagious and the audience soon finds themselves laughing so hard that it hurts. Tony Douglas’ comedy is a combination of self-reflection of poking fun at everyday events. While his magic is both audience participation and pure illusion, he entertains all demographics with his wit and humor in “Las Vegas’ Sexiest Topless Revue.” He said, “I’ll be doing my rope tricks and some other western-style tricks.” Click to Read The Full Story …

R&B Superstar Alicia Keys To Bring “Alicia Keys As I Am Tour” With Special Guests Ne-Yo And Jordin Sparks To MGM Grand Friday, May 9 – Alicia Keys, one of the most prolific performers and recording artists in the world, will bring her highly anticipated “Alicia Keys As I Am Tour” presented by Lexus, to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Friday, May 9. (Tickets) The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. and will feature special guests Ne-Yo and Jordin Sparks. Keys is enjoying one of the most successful years of her career as a performer, producer and songwriter. She received a Grammy Award for “Best R & B Song” for the smash single “No One,” and also won a Grammy for “Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I have just returned from a week in Las Vegas (visit at least three times a year) and I was thrilled to NOT SEE quite so many of the people that thrust the GIRL TO YOUR ROOM cards in front off you as you walk down the Strip. Was it my imagination or has there been some kind of a crackdown on them? Love your site, you have the best news on Las Vegas on the web – Thanks!

Mark
Cape Cod, MA

Ted Responds:

It could have been the areas or times of day you were out. More convention traffic or guys weekend (Superbowl and similar) usually means more of those handouts.

The ACLU has fought and the courts have agreed that they constitute federally protected free speech. I don’t like them anymore than you do and for what it is worth, the girls that get sent to someone’s room don’t look half as good as the ones on the flyers.

Dear Ted. I’ve read quite a few negative letters/comments about the Las Vegas monorail. I’d like to give a positive spin on it. My friends and I tried it for the first time on our last visit in October 2007 while staying at the MGM. We loved it and thought it was a great way to get around. Sure there’s a bit of a walk from the stations to the casinos but its Vegas baby!!! Pretty much every place in Vegas is a bit of a walk.

We found it a very convenient way to get around. Especially when you’re tired and you want to get from Harrah’s to the MGM without ‘hoofin it’. Plus, it was a great way to visit the Hilton (off strip).

For those who think the Deuce is the best way to get around…PAHLEEZE!!! In most cases I can walk from location to location faster than the bus gets me there. They are crowded and they stop too often, and the stops take FOREVER!!! I’m not sure why they don’t have an express bus. Especially one that maybe stops 3 times on the strip and then shoots to downtown. But that’s for a whole other letter.

All in all the monorail was a clean, non-crowded, fast, and fairly inexpensive ($9 for 24 hours) way to get around the strip. We would hate to see it shut down. Come on Vegas visitors…give it a try.

Thanks
Sharla

Ted Responds:

Monorail is great it you are staying at one of the hotels along the route. However, it is pretty much worthless to get from (lets say) Treasure Island to Monte Carlo, Stratosphere to Wynn, and so many similar trips. It isn’t that anybody hates it. It simply isn’t useful for most.

The Duece is slow for those going a long way on The Strip, but a pretty good option for shorter hops. Plus, you don’t have to tip the driver or worry that you are getting long-hauled.

Dear Ted, My wife and family have visited Vegas every year for the last 9 years from our home in the UK. After the first few times getting snarled up in traffic on the strip I “discovered” Koval and Dean Martin (formerly Industrial) both of which run parallel with the strip for part of it .

So if we want to go to the middle of the strip from our hotel (we usually stay at the Orleans which is ex. value and child friendly ),we go east on Tropicana cross the strip, take a left onto Koval take another left into the parking garage of Planet Hollywood and walk straight into the shopping mall. You can do the same on the west side of the strip and swing into Treasure Island.

Enjoy the newsletter see you all in September.

Best wishes,
Paul Austin

Ted Responds:

Hey Paul, why don’t you put a cork in it and quit giving away all our “local” secrets! (I’m kidding, or course).

You are correct: Too many people think they have to take The Strip to get anywhere and just end up sitting in traffic. While side roads can have traffic tie-ups, they usually are not as bad. You can check out this Las Vegas Google Map to see where Koval (east) and Dean Martin (west, across I-15) are.

Dean Martin Drive looks off the beaten path, but the two minutes it takes to get over and on it are child’s play as the road usually flows quite smoothly!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 11
  • Victoria Day, Canada May 17-19 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 24-26 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Yom Kippur October 9
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

April 9, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 5, 2008

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! NASCAR weekend came and went with a big bang… as in a number of top drivers plowing into the wall with a flat tire or simply “getting loose” with the high winds. It wasn’t cold, but our desert can have unpredictable high winds in the early Spring.

One of the highlights everyone could enjoy was the parade of these huge NASCAR “haulers” right down The Strip! These oversized vehicles (even by truck standards) haul two race cars plus all the crew gear from race-to-race.


You can click on the above photo to see our complete photo gallery set of this unique event!

My favorite driver is Las Vegas native Kurt Busch, who pilots the Miller Lite #2 Dodge car. I moved here before Kurt was old enough to drink and have enjoyed watching both he (and his brother Kyle’s) rise through the ranks of racing.

I couldn’t pass up the chance to be front-and-center at the Kurt Busch autograph signing at the Sierra Gold “ultra-lounge” last week. Close to a thousand people (maybe more) lined up around the building to wait their turn. Inside, the Miller Lite and Jack Daniel’s girls were handing out free beer and swag in probably one of the most festive atmospheres ever for a NASCAR driver signing. We have the pics:


Las Vegas Native NASCAR Driver Kurt Busch
Click on above photos to view this entire photo set!PT’s Pubs (a chain of bars around the Las Vegas area) owns Sierra Gold and is a sponsor of the Kurt Busch car, so they went all out to do it up right. You can view the PT’s/Kurt Busch commercial (YouTube) that has been in heavy rotation on local TV here in Las Vegas.OK… OK… hold the emails and complaints. We realize everyone isn’t a NASCAR fan. This is a once-a-year deal. As always, we have our usual huge newsletter with everything you need to know about all the latest happenings in Las Vegas, plus our regular Members Mania and News sections.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Featured Review – Hooray for HATS!

Reviewed March 2008
by Terri Feld

A life-affirming musical review inspired by the The Red Hat Society. Founded 10 years ago in California, the RHS is a diverse network of women 50 years and older who meet for outings dressed in colorful purple clothing crowned with red hats. Today nearly 40,000 chapters exist throughout the U.S. as well as 30 other countries. HATS! the show promotes the organizations’ mission of maintaining a positive outlook on aging, by emphasizing sisterhood and the empowerment of maturity.

At least a dozen genuine Red-Hatters in full regalia comprised part of a recent Sunday matinee audience dominated by fellow female fifty-somethings. The intimate venue consists of floor seats and table banquettes, giving audiences optimal accessibility to the performances throughout this one-act production. Ushers point out the bar located at the rear, however, purchasing drinks is not required. In fact, despite signage to the contrary, they gallantly wave me and my Starbucks to our seat. Click to read the entire review…

Comedy Superstar David Spade Returns To Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino – After successfully completing his first two shows to a packed house, comedy superstar and long-time Las Vegas headliner, David Spade, will continue his 2008 series at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino from March 14-15, with two more nights of hysterical comedy. (Tickets) A Las Vegas favorite, Spade joined the Planet Hollywood entertainment line up for a series of weekend dates through 2008: March 14-15, April 11-12, July 25-26, August 30-31, October 10-11, October 24-25 and November 28-29. Click to Read The Full Story …

‘La Cage’ Plays Celebrity Judges For ‘Next Best Food Star’ – CELEBRITY JUDGES – From left Crystal Woods as Diana Ross, Frank Marino as Joan Rivers along with Steven Wayne as Cher were selected as judges recently for the Food Network’s next big show “Next Best Food Star” to begin airing this coming August and September. The gentlemen from “An Evening at La Cage” (Tickets) at the Riviera Hotel & Casino judge the finale held in Las Vegas by taste testing the various dishes. Frank Marino is on a self-proclaimed mission to become the next wax figure in Madame Tussaud’s. Marino is photographed with his mannequin but says, “Rue Paul is in NYC and Dame Edna is in London. Why not?”

Banned for Decades, Forbidden Cocktail Now Available at Luxor – Nicknamed the “Green Fairy” for its occasionally milky green color and mythical hallucinogenic effects, absinthe is legal in the U.S. after a 95-year ban. Patrons of LuxorÆs new center bar, Liquidity, now can experience the once-forbidden liqueur for themselves. Available for $300, “Absinthe Envy” is served in an elaborate tableside presentation that offers a modern take on the tradition of serving the illicit concoction with a sugar cube and chilled water.

Venetian Headliner Wayne Brady Extends Hit Show Through August 2009 – Wayne Brady has captured the hearts of Las Vegas audiences with his one-of-a-kind show, Making It Up, at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino. (Tickets) Due to the show’s success, BASE Entertainment and The Venetian are pleased to announce Making It Up has been extended for another year, which will keep Brady entertaining on The Las Vegas Strip through July 2009. “I couldn’t be happier being in Las Vegas doing what I do best, entertaining audiences,” says Brady. Click to Read The Full Story …

Nevada Ballet Theatre Set For Creative Exchange With The Seoul Ballet Theatre – Nevada Ballet Theatre continues its 2007-2008 season with the most cultural of all productions — the highly anticipated East Meets West. Nevada Ballet Theatre will host members of the Seoul Ballet Theatre of Korea for a unique exchange production — uniting dancers from two different continents on the same stage! This stylized and distinctive performance will take place on Friday, February March 21 at 8pm, and Saturday, March 22 at 2pm at UNLV’s Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall. Click to Read The Full Story …

Ago Officially Opens At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas – AGO, the elegant Italian trattoria named after its celebrated Executive Chef Partner, Agostino Sciandri, officially opened its doors at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, hosted by Robert DeNiro and Sciandri. The opening of the Las Vegas restaurant coincides with the tenth anniversary year of the landmark Los Angeles eatery. Click to Read The Full Story …

Circus Circus’ Carnival Midway Debuts New Acts In 2008 – Circus Circus’ hallmark is the wonderful array of circus acts that perform center stage at the Carnival Midway. Performers from around the globe grace the Midway stage under Circus Circus’ big top, comprising the world’s largest permanent circus. From the dazzling aerialists to the fearless trapeze artists to the amusing clowns, the performances on the Midway stage take place daily, twice every hour from 11 a.m. to midnight with complimentary admission. Several amazing new acts will entertain audiences at Circus Circus this year. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Video Keno – Part Seven – with Victor H. Royer. Four Card Keno – This is currently my all-time favorite keno game, and the one on which I have won the vast majority of my most recent Video Keno jackpots. It was on this game that I have hit numerous 8 out of 9 hits, for $4,700 plus all the other pays, as well as solid 9s for $5,000 pays (2 coins) plus all the other pays in the “wheel”, many, many 8 out of 10 hits for $500 (2 coins) and $1,000 (four coins), plus all of the many other pays this provided for the combination hits. Click to Read Complete Article…

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Rick Bobst submitted a number of amazing Las Vegas photos. Enjoy these, and see the rest in our AccessVegas.com Reader Submitted Photos Gallery!

Ted,
My nephew is going to Vegas in a couple of weeks for his 21’st birthday. He wants to go to clubs like Pure and Studio 54. What is his best chance of getting in? They are staying at The Palms. Is he better off trying to get into Rain or Ghostbar?

Thanks,
Bob

á

We are going to get into a lot more club stuff this year. In the meantime, the best bet is to hit our friends at Nightclubs.com. Have him hit that link and punch in the dates to see what is happening and what is available.

Staying at a hotel is no sure way to get into their club. And… unfortunately if you are a group of guys, it makes it even more tough (as the clubs want plenty of women in the club also). Even if you are a mix of males and females, that won’t always speed things up.

The bottom line is that the non-VIP line can be 1-2 hours (or more). Purchasing VIP tickets usually cuts the wait substantially.. (A club can only hold so many people… virtually no one except celebs get in right away). Also, tell him NOT to club hop. Las Vegas is huge, traffic is a problem. He should pick the club he and his friends want and do the night there.

Hi Ted,My name is Ed Robinson from Manchester, Michigan and I read one of your articles about the traffic on the Vegas strip and the monorails design to help it. My question/comment is why I never hear or read anything about running the monorail right down the center of strip itself instead of behind the hotels. Being elevated, it would not take up much space and would be a hundred times more efficient and convenient.For starters, just being out front, people would see it and I am sure use it instead of driving. The way it is now, nobody in my family or any of our friends ever uses it because in the time it takes to walk through the casino and find the stop, we can just as easily and for free, walk to where we are going or use the bus system (which I think its the Best way to get up and down the strip for a small fee).

I am willing to bet that the monorail could be built to utilize the existing overhead crosswalks and maybe build some more to get people from crossing the side streets and further congesting traffic. Imagine walking out of the Mandalay Bay and having a monorail right there that could get you all the way downtown or just up to the Monte Carlo or any stop along the way and never have to worry about cars on the strip. It will never be that way with the monorail behind the buildings as it is now, never.

Right now it is just an inconvenience to use the system. Even when my wife and I stayed at the MGM last year, our one ride on the monorail was an expensive pain in the butt and probably won’t happen again.

I love going to Las Vegas but I always thought the monorail was a mistake and one that was not planned out enough to be worthwhile.

Thanks,
Ed Robinson

á

I couldn’t have said it better myself. The monorail is on reserve funds and may face either a demise or an expensive local government takeover.

Rebuilding it down the center of The Strip (no matter how much sense it makes) may be cost prohibitive. Especially since people are gun-shy about the failure of the current one.

I keep touting an elevated cable tram, just like they have in Palm Springs and Albuquerque. Cars holding 50+ people, running above the traffic lanes, making stops at selected casinos with one car running after the other after the other. The cars would stop on (what amounts to) the third floor of various casinos and the ride above traffic would be scenic with great photo-opts without the need for an unsightly structure disrupting the center of The Strip.

Our local officials and the gaming companies better figure something out. If we can’t get our loyal visitors around when you are here, you might not want to come back so often.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday March 23
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 11
  • Victoria Day, Canada May 17-19 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 24-26 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Yom Kippur October 9
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

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

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

All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

March 5, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 23, 2007

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The Super Bowl is looming and we always get a flood of “What is happening Super Bowl Sunday” emails. I’d love to tell you… but we’ve heard very little. No, Las Vegas didn’t forget how to party for big events. However, the NFL (No Fun League) certainly did, and has used court orders and legal threats the past few years to keep our resorts from throwing the once famous huge events surrounding the big game.

Specifically, admission can’t be charged for any event displaying the game, and the game can’t be shown on TV’s larger than would be used for normal home viewing. (This came as a result of The Palms plans to show the game in one of their movie theater screens one year).

This is really a complete shame. In the past, casinos threw these lavish events where one fee would cover an open bar, food, tons of giveaways, the Miller/Bud/Coors girls and tons of fun for a pretty modest fee. Profit wasn’t the goal. The goal was fun!

Do not despair! Las Vegas is still the best place place in the world to watch the game (short of attending the game live). Every TV in every casino is tuned to the game, millions of dollars are bet, and every play generates unmatched whoops and excitement. You still have time to book a trip here. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and see what rooms they still have.

The game is February 3, 2008. If you really want to splurge, we do have a few Big Game Tickets available. If you really, really, really want to splurge: Buy tickets to the game, book a Friday – Monday room here in Las Vegas, fly down to Phoenix on Sunday to see the game in person, then back for the evening in Las Vegas!

P.S. I can hook you up with a stadium suite at the actual game in Phoenix for around $200,000. Serious inquiries only on this one to ted.newkirk@gmail.com (and don’t delay… this will be snapped up quickly).

Palazzo is fully open, generating more world-wide publicity for Las Vegas. The combination of Venetian and Palazzo (two hotels operating under one roof and jointly run as one hotel) along with the Sands Convention Center is being billed as the largest indoor complex of its type (in terms of square feet) in the world.

My advice: Visit Palazzo and Wynn Las Vegas back-to-back. They are just across the street from each other. Doing this creates an interesting compare/contrast in the styles of two of the biggest casino titans of the modern era. Missed last week’s issue? Then you missed our exclusive sneak peak. Check out Palazzo Las Vegas Photos

Palazzo Las Vegas News Stories

You heard it here first… our political caucuses were a joke. (As usual, skip this section if no interest). This will be the last we talk about this, but last week I noted just some of the surface problems which I anticipated with our Presidential political caucuses and why to not read too much into the results. The sparks are still flying and my comments follow:

On the Democratic side, the entire system was geared to get Obama the nomination. This included a union endorsement from that union that 80% of the Strip resort workers belong to, and nine “special” at-large caucuses in actual Strip hotels. Let’s see here… a very powerful union, caucuses at the union’s job site, and a caucus format that makes one’s vote very public. Nothing strange about that? (Correction from last week: The Democratic caucuses were at 11 AM. Also, the legality of these special caucus sites was still being disputed when I wrote last week).

The Clinton’s fought back with a vengeance. Hillary campaigned heavily and publicly in working class neighborhoods likely to have a high percentage of hotel workers. Bill spent much of the week walking (working) the “back of the house” at numerous Strip properties and visiting a number of hotel caucus sites.

On the GOP side, only Mitt Romney and Ron Paul actively campaigned here. Both poured a ton of money and time into Nevada. However, the time of the GOP caucus (Saturday morning at 9 AM) was tailor-made for Romney’s voters. The Mormons and Evangelicals who made up a large chunk of his support here were most likely to actually be up at 9 AM on a weekend. Ron Paul’s base of libertarians and younger people (both groups most likely to party into the wee hours on a Friday night) may have suppressed his vote. (Disclaimer: None of the candidates I’ve mentioned from either party are my first choice for the Presidency. I’m just speaking as a pundit).

Those who want to read more can check out the numerous letters to the editor or our local paper from earlier this week: Next time, Nevada should try a primary. I couldn’t agree with them more.

Quick Amazon Tip – This isn’t Las Vegas related, but a very cool idea I stumbled across. If you are like me, you go to Amazon.com for one or two items on a regular basis. This leaves you short of the “free shipping on a $25 purchase” deal they have. What do I do? Simply add some printer ink to my order. It is something I know I’ll need. Plus… it puts me over the free shipping limit.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Sammy Hagar To Perform At The Pearl Big Game Weekend – Legendary Rocker Makes A Stop In Las Vegas At The Palms On February 2 – While thousands are in town for football, some have good ol’ fashion rock ‘n’ roll on their minds. This Big Game weekend, The Palms will be chock full with festivities, including a headlining concert with one of the most distinctive voices in rock, Sammy Hagar. (Tickets) The singer truly began to be a household name in the mid ’80s when he fronted the already formed Van Halen, replacing David Lee Roth. Hagar comes to The Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms on Saturday, February 2, 2008, at 8 p.m. for what is sure to be a winning performance. Click to Read The Full Story …

American Superstars Show At The Stratosphere Casino Hotel And Tower Adds Rod Stewart Tribute – The American Superstars show at the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower has added veteran tribute artist John Anthony as Rod Stewart to its line-up of celebrity tributes to yesterday’s and today’s hottest music stars, announced American Casino & Entertainment Properties officials. (Tickets) “Rod Stewart has a look, voice, and energy level that are uniquely his own. It takes an accomplished performer like John Anthony to nail a tribute that is sincere and accurate while covering the scope of Stewart’s enduring career,” says Mark Callas, who produces American Superstars with his Springtime Productions partner, Donny Moore. Click to Read The Full Story …

MGM MIRAGE Restaurants Awarded Michelin Stars Highlighted by Only Restaurant to Receive Three Star Honors, Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand – The November 2007 debut of the Michelin Guide in Las Vegas is a European nod to Las Vegas’ evolution into one of the world’s top dining destinations. Sixteen restaurants were honored with at least one Michelin star, and seven of those restaurants are within MGM MIRAGE properties. Receiving top honors is the Michelin three-star restaurant, Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand. The only Las Vegas recipient of this well-respected distinction, Joel Robuchon represents “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey” according to Michelin’s three-star criteria.

Earning an impressive two stars is Chef Julian Serrano’s Picasso at Bellagio. Two stars is defined by Michelin as “excellent cooking, worth a detour.” Rounding out the honors and capturing one star for “a very good restaurant in its category, offering cuisine prepared to a consistently high standard” are five impressive restaurants — L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand, Le Cirque at Bellagio, MICHAEL MINA Bellagio, Aureole at Mandalay Bay and miX atop THEhotel at Mandalay Bay.

AOL Names ‘Crazy Girls’ ‘Las Vegas’ Sexiest Topless Revue’ – In Its 22nd Year The Riviera Show Is Now To Be Featured In A Series Of New Movies – “Crazy Girls” has appeared on hundreds of magazine covers and has proven itself as the best long-running show as well as “Las Vegas’ Sexiest Topless Revue” time after time and now a series of movies are being made about the famous revue. (Tickets) No show in Las Vegas’ history has raised so much controversy as the “Crazy Girls” at the Riviera Hotel & Casino by virtue of performing and entertaining the 10’s of millions of visitors who flock to Las Vegas each year with the type of style of entertainment that made “The Entertainment Capital” the success that it is today. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Video Keno – Part Three – with Victor H. Royer. I have often written that knowing the pay tables for machine-based gambling games is essential, and paramount to your ability to win money. While powerful profits are possible even on games whose statistical profile distinctly classifies them in the “not so good” category, knowing this before playing is equally as important as knowing the information that statistically so classifies them. Just as important is knowing the odds on such machines, and the payback percentages. Click to Read Complete Article…

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Got a couple of great responses to last week’s question about coat-check and what to do with your coat in Las Vegas during the winter:

Hi Ted & Others,

Re this question in your latest column, being a woman, I’m “hot and then cold” while in Vegas (both weather-wise and luck-wise, for that matter). I try to layer a couple of sleeves. That way I can take off a sweater or jacket once I’m inside if the casino’s too warm. But I wouldn’t recommend putting a coat or sweater on the back of a chair, especially if you’re playing the slots. Most of us machine-hop fairly often, and what are the odds you’re going to remember that coat or sweater on the back of a chair? I’ve had to try to retrace my steps to locate a sweater (in that case) that I left on a particular chair.

In wintertime Vegas, the daytimes are most often sunny, and it means you won’t need a heavy coat. But a couple of layers of sleeves is a good idea, especially if you’re walking from property to property on The Strip–quite a distance in some instances.

Another thing that works for me is tying my sweater/jacket sleeves around my waist after I remove the sweater/jacket. No easy answer, but wintertime Vegas beats summertime heat for me, without a doubt! Have a great time,

J. Steele
from the Texas Hill Country

At Delmonico’s in the Venetian they offer to take your coat. Where they put it I don’t know, but of course we all got our coats back after dinner!

Barbara Smith

Russell, PA

Hi Ted,

Like many other readers I enjoy your newsletters. I have to ask……I haven’t seen any mention of any Mega Buck winners for almost a year now. Think the last big news was a nickel machine at the Golden Nugget a long while back. Has the ticket in ticket out put a drought on the winners?

Regards, John

Great question! It seems like there were record jackpots a few years ago, and people were hitting them every few months. A check with Megabuck creators IGT Gaming shows that someone hit $1.00 Megabucks for $10,762,067 in May of 2007 at The Fremont downtown. The current jackpot is over $16,000,000.

Some conjecture that the machines were tightened up to create the series of record jackpots. A downside of tighter machines? People give up and stop playing them.

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 7
  • Lincoln’s Birthday February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day February 16-18 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday March 23
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 11
  • Victoria Day, Canada May 17-19 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 24-26 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Yom Kippur October 9
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

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

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

All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

January 23, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 30, 2007

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Free Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! O.J. is gone from town (flying commercial to Ft. Lauderdale… you can have him down there). Britney Spears is on the cover of every magazine, but old news here.

But… this is Las Vegas. Unquestionably the next big story splashed all across the magazines and news channels is just around the corner!

Las Vegas: Always Sunny and Hot? Always sunny, yes. However… things do cool down over the fall and winter months. Here are the average highs and lows through the end of the year:

  • October 81/57 F
  • November 66/44 F
  • December 57/37 F
  • January 57/37 F (not a misprint… same as December)
  • February 63/41 F
  • March 69/47 F

A strong word of warning: We are in the middle of an unpredictable desert. It can often be 10 degrees above or below the average temps, and occasional winds can make the overnight low feel colder than the average.

On the flip side, many of you would kill for a 60 degree day in the middle of winter. As fall starts to chill where you are and the cold is no longer a novelty, come spend some time with us here.

P.S. Guys, plan the trip around the weekend your team is playing a big game so you can enjoy a nice, legal bet on it! (Ladies, if you aren’t a fan, the time during the game is a great time to hit a spa or take in our famous shopping).

Enjoy This Issue!

The Second Annual Pure Aloha Fall Festival Brings The “Hawaii Nei” To The Cannery Casino & Hotel – Festival Presented By Vizzun Entertainment And Will Run October 12 Through October 14 – There will be lots of “good fun” and “ono” food at the Second Annual Pure Aloha Fall Festival presented by Vizzun Entertainment at the Cannery Casino & Hotel. The three-day festival runs Friday, October 12 through Sunday, October 14 and will be held at the Club, an indoor/outdoor festival venue located at the Cannery Casino & Hotel. The event includes concerts from some of the most popular Hawaiian and Polynesian acts and daytime festivals that bring a little bit of the Hawaiian homeland to Las Vegas. Click to Read The Full Story …

California Girl Brandyn Horsley Joins ‘Crazy Girls’ – New Dancer Performs In ‘Las Vegas’ Sexiest Topless Revue’ – Brandyn is a native of Huntington Beach, California and moved to Las Vegas about two years ago when I was 18 and she fell in love with dancing in “Crazy Girls” (Tickets) at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. Brandyn said, “My parents moved to Las Vegas to retire and my mom went back to work. My Dad is a real estate broker and the whole market just fell apart. My mom works for NEC which manages phone systems for major corporations. I’m an only child. I loved growing up a half-block from the beach. I graduated from high school at 16 and then went to college and got my real estate license. I came to Las Vegas out of boredom. I used to help my parents by doing paperwork and holding open houses. There isn’t anything near the water for less than a million dollars these days.” Click to Read The Full Story …

BBQ Kicks Off Coca-Cola Corn Maze In Glendale On Friday, Oct. 5 – Nevada’s largest corn maze 25 minutes north of NLV to run from 5-8 p.m. The 4th annual Haunted Corn Maze in Glendale in celebration of Nevada Day and Halloween is only 25 minutes north of North Las Vegas via I-15 and features an old-fashioned Coca-Cola bottle and kicks off with a BBQ on Friday, Oct. 5 from 5-8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

Winter’s Hottest Annual Arena Rock Attraction Trans-Siberian Orchestra Returns To Las Vegas To Perform At Mandalay Bay Events Center Sunday, November 18 – Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO), will bring its much anticipated live-rock extravaganza to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Sunday, Nov. 18. (Tickets) The concert is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. In the true spirit of the holiday giving, $1 from every ticket sold will benefit a local charity. Established in 1996 by producer, composer and lyricist Paul O’Neill, TSO has been a true rock mega-success. Click to Read The Full Story …

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Set To Perform At Buffalo Bill’s Star Of The Desert Arena – WHO: Pat Benatar is a four-time Grammy award-winner and one of the top female power-ballad performers of all time. (Tickets) Coupled with accomplished guitarist, songwriter and producer Neil Giraldo, Benatar is staged to thrill audiences with rock music hits such as “Love is a Battlefield,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” and “We Belong.” WHAT: Benatar and Giraldo will perform at Buffalo Bill’s Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nevada on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Submitted Photos:

Just thought we’d share our prettiest pics. The first is obvious…leaving Las Vegas early Sunday morning, the second pic is looking outside the window on Fremont Street (Binions Hotel room). Hope ya’ll like ’em!

Mike & Gina Castilleja

Hi Ted and everyone at ‘Access Vegas’,

This is the first photograph I took when I arrived in Las Vegas, it was taken just outside of the airport. It’s one of my most favourite photos and it always makes me feel good. It reminds me of the heat and excitement of my first trip to Vegas, (I’m coming back again in August).

Thanks for all the great Las Vegas info guys!

Chrissie Sharman (UK)

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

Hello,

Just wanted to say I have had a blast every time I have visited Vegas . my friends and I, love it there. I have been to Vegas 4 times since 2005 and stay somewhere different each time …

I think I now know more about Vegas than anyone who lives there . I am thinking of coming back again in September or October 2007 …..

Carolyn A. Bailey

Ted Responds:

Carolyn,,

Thanks for the great letter. Undoubtedly, most of our readers do end up knowing more about Las Vegas than most of the people living here. Even people who work on The Strip come in, work, and go to their homes miles from the action. Even the “inside” info they have is often rumor of something they heard fourth hand.

We report either through direct experience or information and reports received directly from the sources and go out of our way to forgo rumors and information not directly obtained from those in charge. In addition, everybody who works on this newsletter or our site is someone who enjoys the attractions and activities on a regular basis.

The bottom line is that we love Las Vegas, and enjoy sharing our enjoyment with everybody. We do ask all readers who appreciate this newsletter to check out our great sponsors and use our hotel, show, and ticket booking links when planning a Vegas visit. Those great sponsors help keep this newsletter well researched and free!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

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

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

All contents copyright 2007 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

September 30, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 20, 2007

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos

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

Ted was on assignment this week. He was last seen mumbling something about having to do in-depth research on the various European-style pools that have been gaining in popularity in Las Vegas. He should return next week. Please enjoy the stories and links as prepared by Amy Raynor-Cooley.

Correction: Last week’s comment that the Frontier was closing later this week should have read “later next month.” The exact closure date is July 15, 2007.

The Las Vegas Hilton will be having a fireworks display on the 4’th. So far, this is the only one in the vicinity of The Strip that we’ve heard about. Probable best place to view it? Top of the parking garage of The Hilton or Riviera. (View from The Sahara might be blocked by the Turberry Towers). We’d suggest at least being north of Wynn Las Vegas for best possible chance to view. Many other displays are taking place around town: Las Vegas Fourth of July Fireworks and Events List

Vets Observe New Baby Dolphin At The Mirage – A baby dolphin born at the Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage is making a big splash. The male calf was born late Friday evening, and so far, he is doing just fine. The four day old calf is under constant watch by visitors and by a whole team of veterinarians at the Mirage’s Dolphin Habitat. Dolphin births in captivity are rare, and it will take several more weeks for this to be considered a successful birth. But vets say the 25 pound calf id doing well. It helps that his mother has some experience in child rearing. Click to Read The Full Story …

Lee Greenwood And Crystal Gayle To Perform At Buffalo Bill’s Star Of The Desert Arena – Patriotic Duo In Concert Fouth Of July Weekend – Lee Greenwood and Crystal Gayle will perform at the Star of the Desert Arena Saturday, July 7 at 8 p.m. (Tickets) Greenwood became a staple of modern-day nationalism with his song “God Bless the USA.” While best known for this patriotic hymn, Greenwood has a string of other hits including: “Dixie Road,” “I.O.U.” and “Ring on Her Finger, Time on Her Hands.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Joe “Paris” Trammel Takes Stand And Stays In Jail – Las Vegas Comic To Serve Remainder Of Sentence Handed To Paris Hilton – WHAT: Prop Comic, Joe Trammel, a.k.a. The TV Guy, has taken a stand and will serve the remainder of the 23 day jail sentence given to Paris Hilton. Joe’s goal is to live inside the cell dressed like Paris to complete the entire term and send a message that people need to take responsibility for their actions. When asked about the public incarceration, Joe “Paris” Trammel stated, “Paris did the crime, it is now left to me, the TV Guy, to do her time.” Click to Read The Full Story …

A Pair Of Illusionists – Frank Marino the star of “An Evening at La Cage” (Tickets) who plays Joan Rivers and a “Femme Fatale” in “An Evening at La Cage” at the Riviera on The Las Vegas Strip visits with the world’s highest paid magician’s assistant on opening night Saturday, June 2nd at Planet Hollywood where Pamela Anderson performs in “Hans Klok – The Beauty of Magic.” (Tickets) Pamela celebrates her big 4-0 birthday on Sunday, July 1st. Click to Read The Full Story …

Bonafide Expands Performances and Adds Saturday Nights at Club Madrid Inside Sunset Station – Bonafide is one of the most sought after reggae bands on the West Coast and will be performing every Saturday night at Club Madrid inside Sunset Station in addition to their Friday night performances at Fiesta Rancho Hotel & Casino. Originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, Bonafide has toured extensively through Japan, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii. Reggae aficionados are probably most acquainted with the group’s recent releases, “Reggae Time,” “Run the Club” and “Why,” also featuring Luciano and dancehall DJ, Lexus. Click to Read The Full Story …

Have a Vegas comment or question? Post To Our Message Boards!We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
  • Post a comment, Vegas suggestion, or question to the appropriate category of our Message Boards.
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

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

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2007 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

June 20, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 16, 2007

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos

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

Hello From Las Vegas!

Lots of focus on the north end of The Strip this week with the news of the sale of The Frontier, plus our brand new Sahara Photos and Riviera Computer Wallpaper.

Pretty big week of news with (finally) the sale of The Frontier hotel. As many of you have heard, the owners of New York’s Plaza hotel have bought The Frontier (across from Wynn, next to Trump’s towers… yes, a second one is going up). They plan to use the Plaza brand, which is interesting because Las Vegas has had a “Plaza” hotel downtown since the 70’s. According to the Associated Press,

Elad Group intends to build a luxury hotel with about 3,500 rooms, private residences, retail space and a casino bearing The Plaza brand on the New Frontier site, Elad president Miki Naftali said in a statement. Opening for the 34.5-acre site across from the Wynn Las Vegas is targeted for 2011.

Ya, ya, ya… whatever, guys. I’ve run out of fingers and toes trying to county the number of “big time, going to be huge, going to take Vegas by storm” projects out of New York, Los Angeles, Miami and other places that have failed to materialize. Among the most very recent, W Las Vegas resort project canceled and a few months ago, Las Ramblas. (I was laughing at the concept and viability of Las Ramblas from day one).

For the most part, the successful multi-billion dollar multi-use projects going up have been built by one of the established local operators (MGM’s CityCenter, Boyd’s Echelon). Bottom line is that we’ll know these new “Plaza” plans are serious when they pony up to buy the name locally from the downtown hotel. For now, I’m treating this as a lot of hot air.

Tickets, Tickets, and more Tickets – Just a reminder that we have tickets to far more than just Las Vegas shows and concerts and usually at some of the best prices you will find for good and premium seats. Among them, NBA Playoffs, American Idols Live, Jimmy Buffett, and other Top Touring Acts. If you can’t make it to Vegas soon, treat yourself to a concert! Side Note: Sending good luck to Reed Waddle, a friend of a friend and a finalist in the American Idol Songwriters search!

Dunkin’ Donuts Coming To Town – As usual, we were way ahead of the curve on this one. In our April 11 issue, reader Kristen asked why we have none and I suggested:

I do understand how Dunkin’ Donuts is revered in other parts of the country, and with a large contingent of east coast visitors and transplants, I agree it seems strange that we have no locations here. We know a number of hotel management types read our newsletter. Consider your request delivered!

Lo and behold, the news is official: Dunkin’ Donuts to open 62 LV stores in seven years

Enjoy This Issue!

The Fashionistas – Show Review

The Fashionistas

Reviewed May 2007
by Nancy Dickinson

The fashion industry probably didn’t know the raw passion it could spawn through music, story, and dance… but leave it to Vegas to bring forth the goods. Fashionistas, a hot seam ripping show at the Empire Ballroom is based on tales of an innovative fashion fetish company, vivacious women seductresses, and the domineering love triangles some very sexy (and certainly masochistic) characters have managed to sew together. The result stitches a new, dark, seductive face upon the fashion industry that is unafraid of celebrating shape and form in all things. Click to Read The Full Review…

Mandalay Beach Ups the Ante – Mandalay Beach will redefine fun-in-the-sun this June with the addition of Las Vegas’ only climate-controlled poolside gaming venue at Mandalay Bay. Just feet from crystal-clear waves, a new three-story, glass-fronted Beach casino will invite guests to indulge at their leisure.

The first level will offer a casual bar and grill while the second level will feature table games with expansive, open-air views. On the third floor, guests will find the spectacular Villas Soleil, luxury pool villas ranging from 250 to 500 square feet. Click to enjoy Mandalay Bay Las Vegas Photos

Lewis keeps Labor Day telethon in Las Vegas– Jerry Lewis’ annual Labor Day telethon to fight muscular dystrophy, which aired from Las Vegas last year, will return this year. The broadcast, which benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association, will air Sept. 2-3 from the South Point hotel-casino south of the Las Vegas Strip, organizers said Wednesday. Lewis moved the telethon out of its longtime home in Los Angeles last year, saying it had been overshadowed by other productions there. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Sahara Las Vegas Photos – The Sahara offers 1,720 classically styled guestrooms and suites decorated in a Moroccan motif. The spacious rooms include comfortable accommodations and a variety of television-viewing options. The pool is open daily throughout the summer. The spa is open year round. Live entertainment can be found by visiting the Casbar Theatre Lounge

Gambling Talk: Is There An Internet Poker Ban?– with Victor H. Royer. First of all, there is NO Internet poker ban, and NO Internet gaming bad. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 does NOT prohibit Internet gaming. It is designed to stop banks from financial transactions directly with Internet gaming sites. This is something that was already done several years ago, when the Credit Card companies decided to pull out for fear of being targeted by the Justice Department, even though the DOJ had NO LAW to fall back on. The Wire Act of 1961 was ruled by the Supreme Court as applicable ONLY to sports. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week: Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville – In honor of our friends down on the Gulf Coast and the continued recovery of the area including the planned Margaritaville Hotel and Casino in Biloxi, we bring you this previous look at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Las Vegas at The Flamingo. Margaritaville is a mecca for Parrot Heads or anyone else who wants to have a good time and a great meal in the ultimate tropical setting.

  • Click To View Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: Broadband (only)

Riviera Las Vegas Computer Wallpaper – More about the north end of The Strip with this amazing photo of The Riviera. The Riviera Hotel and Casino enjoys over 2000 refurbished oversized rooms offering maximum comfort and breathtaking views of the glittering Las Vegas Strip. Guests also enjoy a variety of entertainment. Click and view Riviera Las Vegas Computer Wallpaper.

More Bellagio info and pics:

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Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Reader Submitted Photo – Sheena Foster submitted this photo and titled it The LUXOR at daytime.

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

Dear Ted:I have been to Vegas several times now and each time is a new experience. Myself and three other girls are going to Vegas in December and would like to attend the NFR at the Thomas Mack Centre. I wondered if you could tell me where is a good location to be seated to view the action of the rodeo without paying an arm and a leg for seats. Never having been at the centre I am unsure as to whether the 200 section is so high up that we wouldn’t be able to distinguish the cowboy from the bull or horse. Any insight you could give me in this matter would be greatly appreciated. I thoroughly enjoy reading your newsletter and look forward to it in my in box. Keep up the good work.

LuAnn McQuillan,
Ontario, Canada

Ted Responds:

I have never been to NFR. Having said that, most people are just happy to get tickets to it!

Your other option is to just come during NFR time. Most of the hotels have it on all their screens, some set up special viewing rooms. Many come for the country atmosphere.

Perhaps we can hear from readers who have been to NFR, where they sat, how they enjoyed it. We do have National Finals Rodeo tickets available. Note: These are resale tickets as the event sells out ever year, year-after-year (IE, you just can’t walk up and buy a ticket).

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

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

  • Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
  • Post a comment, Vegas suggestion, or question to the appropriate category of our Message Boards.
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

Readers Rants, Raves, and Questions – Great reader questions and comments from our Access Vegas Message Boards. Help someone out or post your own comment or question!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • 2007

  • Memorial Day May 26-28 (3 day weekend)
  • Fathers Day June 17
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday (Canada) August 6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day September 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Columbus Day (USA), Thanksgiving Day (Canada) October 6-8 (3 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 25 (4 day weekend – Christmas on Tuesday)
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (4 day weekend – New Years on Tuesday)

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

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

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

All contents copyright 2007 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

May 16, 2007 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 13, 2006

Posted on by

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Our best wishes to Celine Dion who is taking some unscheduled time off to recover from a severe respiratory virus. She’s taking the time needed to heal and rest in anticipation of her 2007 gigs at Caesars. We have Celine tickets on sale through June of 2007, and her replacements (Cher and Bette Midler) have already been signed. If you have been putting off seeing Celine or want to catch the show again, do not delay in getting tickets now. Celine Dion Tickets

The rumble for New Year’s Eve is heating up in a huge way and as now is the norm, $500,000 worth of fireworks will be shot off from hotels all the way up and down The Strip. If being inside at what are sure to be the hottest club parties on the planet, you need to be snapping up tickets or making your bottle/table reservations now. ASAP.

The huge party is the Nightclubs.com Party at the Empire Ballroom and we have that and information on all the New Years Eve Las Vegas Nightclub Parties or we’ll have people on hand to personally help you with the 411 if you call 800-696-5721.

We have a new section for links to stories about the smoking ban at the end of our usual news story links section later in this issue. For those who just want an executive summary:

A judge has temporarily halted enforcement of the new rules until a hearing on the constitutionality of the law has been heard. The anti-smoking forces who wrote the law exempted casinos (nobody would want to take on that fight). But in doing so, the law may unfairly discriminate against the local bar and grills all over Las Vegas (which are essentially min-casinos).

Mayor Oscar Goodman makes it no secret that he loves his martinis. So much that he’s going to teach a one-credit class at Community College of Southern Nevada this February on how to make the perfect martini. (No, this isn’t a joke). Gotta love Vegas!

If you are thinking of coming for New Year’s Eve, it’s time go book. Now. Room prices will only rise, and tickets to the hottest events are already starting to get very tight. We have a ton of links and information in this issue, and as always, your best bet for hotel reservations is Las Vegas Hotel Deals.

Enjoy This Issue!

Important Note: During peak times, some of our news and event story links may take extra time to load. We are working on significant upgrades to handle this increased demand. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience during the extra few seconds a story may take to appear when you click on it.

Summer Ferguson Of ‘Crazy Girls’ In Ballet Number ‘The Heart’ – Summer Ferguson of “Crazy Girls” does “The Heart” the only ballet number in the revamped show that is in its 20th year at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. The 5-foot-9-inch statuesque dancer says, “Performing runs in my family. My mom and aunt were both Lakers’ cheerleaders with Paula Abdul.” I began my dance lessons at age two. I’d like to be a Victoria’s Secret model. After “Crazy Girls” I stay up all night.” With the recent press about the phasing out of shoeshine workers, Summer reports that she used to earn a good living when she was only 16 years old working at the hotels and once got a $2,500 tip. Click to Read The Full Story and Purchase Tickets …

Christina Aguilera At Mandalay Bay – Pop-music star Christina Aguilera launches her 41-city “Back to Basics” 2007 North American tour in February and will bring her high-energy show to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, March 3. Special guests The Pussycat Dolls, as well as Danity Kane, are scheduled as the opening acts for the evening set to begin at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story and Purchase Tickets …

The Cannery Celebrates Elvis Presley’s Birthday on January 5 and 6 – Friends of Elvis to Make Special Appearance – The Cannery Casino & Hotel celebrates Elvis Presley’s life with a 72nd birthday celebration on January 5 and 6, 2007 hosted by Elvis expert Steve Christopher with special performances by Johnny Fortuno and The Stamps Quartet as well as a meet and greet with friends and co-stars of Elvis Presley. Tickets are $10 at the door and the celebration begins at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

Barry Manilow tickets for his long-term engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton are available for his May-through-December 2007 schedule. Click for Barry Manilow Tickets

Dr. Scott Lewis Takes Advantage – Las Vegas will be packed with holiday revelers and a packed town means packed Box Office. Riviera headliner Dr. Scott Lewis reminds, “while most shows are on vacation, I’ll be performing four extra shows between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, each night at 7 p.m. I hope I can mesmerize my holiday visitors on Wednesday through Saturday, December 27, 28, 29 & 30. I meet and greet every audience member after the show. Maybe one day, they’ll be an on-stage participant in my show!” Click to Read The Full Story and Purchase Tickets …

Music Legend Eric Clapton At MGM Grand – Music legend Eric Clapton will return to the United States for the second leg of his 2006-2007 U.S. Tour following a number of sold-out shows overseas. The MGM Grand Garden Arena will host Clapton’s performance Saturday, March 10 at 8 p.m., which will feature Robert Cray as the opening act. Click to Read The Full Story and Purchase Tickets …

One-of-a-Kind Baldwin Piano Painted By Peter Max Available To Highest Bidder For Charity – World-renowned artist Peter Max unveiled a one-of-a-kind Baldwin Baby 5’2″ Grand piano during Thanksgiving weekend at The Art of Peter Max Gallery in the Forum Shops in Las Vegas as part of a charity campaign to raise funds for The Gibson Foundation and Max’s Global Works Foundation. The piano is on display between the hours of 10am and 11pm PT daily. Click to Read The Full Story …

3121 Jazz Cuisine Expands Hours – 3121 Jazz Cuisine and Chef Lena Morgan invite guests to continue the party after experiencing a night on the dance floor in 3121 with a new late nite menu. The new menu will be offered from midnight until 5 am every Friday and Saturday night with Late Nite Snax including crispy plantains with seared diver scallops, Jamaican jerk jam and mango coulis; petite Kobe burgers with Vidalia onions, melted brie cheese and sweet potato fries; Creole spiced seared shrimp with avocado salsa in a tortilla cup; a selection of flat bread pizzas; and much more. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Playing Big Pairs in Tournaments — Part One – with Victor H. Royer. Over the next series of articles, I am going to ask you to consider some of the big pairs in Poker and how you should (could) play them in poker tournaments. As odd as this may seem, there are many different ways in which you can (or should) play big pairs, including pocket Aces. This also includes hands like Ace-King.

Many players think (feel) that these are the kinds of hands that play themselves. While it may be OK for you to play like that at home, that’s not what you should (ought) to do in poker tournaments. Even big pairs like Aces aren’t always candidates for the same kind of consideration, and most certainly so for poker tournaments. So, here we are going to explore some of the possibilities, and some of the reasons for them. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Sirens of TI Pirate Show – The Sirens recently celebrated the third anniversary of their free show in from of Treasure Island (TI) Las Vegas. They are taking a couple of weeks but will return strong in time for New Years Eve. In the meantime, enjoy great photos from this popular show.

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week – Jet Nightclub Grand Opening Preview (December 2005) – One year ago, Jet Nightclub at The Mirage opened to the public with Kid Rock at the turntables. This is Las Vegas and too much of a good thing is never enough, so Kid Rock is back fresh off of his split from Pamela Anderson and he’ll again be hosting the New Year’s Eve party at Jet! Jet Reservations, VIP Tickets and Bottle Service/Table Reservations call 800-696-5721.

  • Click To View Jet Nightclub Grand Opening Preview (December 2005): Broadband (only)

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Readers Write:

Really enjoy the newsletter, finding it very informative.

The thing that bothers me, is, all the old names are dying. The Dunes, Sands and Hacienda have all been razed and the property rebuilt upon with the new properties having new names (not a bad idea when it comes to the Hacienda).

Now it’s Stardust. I used to be a frequent guest and would much rather it retain it’s name, rather than the proposed Echelon Place. This property isn’t changing ownership so a name change will do nothing but distance former patrons.

Thanks

Jim O’Hara

Chicago

Ted Responds:

Having lived here since 1993 (long enough to get used to the actual hotels you are referencing), I couldn’t agree more. In a few more years, most newer visitors and new residents will probably think the street names “Sands” and “Desert Inn” were some cute street names thought up by home developers.

I am pleased to see that Tropicana Ave. will continue to lead to The Tropicana for now (the upgrade of the property by new owners at this time doesn’t appear to involve a name change).

However, I do wish that Venetian owner Sheldon Anderson had done something more to let The Sands name live on (outside of keeping the convention center so named). It would be nice if the Encore addition to Wynn Las Vegas had a “Desert Inn Lounge” and similar with Stardust.

Couple of interesting quick notes:

  • I was among the first to note what a lousy, stupid name Echelon Place is, a comment that is echoed by many local pundits. They still have time to change it and I hope they do.
  • Of all the names you mentioned, The Hacienda actually lives on. A small hotel/casino between Boulder City and Hoover Dam now has the name, as a result of some of the former Hacienda parent company owners being involved the hotel by Hoover Dam.

Bottom line: The new Vegas is exciting, but some connections to the past would be welcome. If anything, the vibe people of all ages come here for is the swinging times that were originally made famous by the Rat Pack.

Hi Ted,Love reading your column. My friend and I (both in our 60’s) stayed at Wynn Resort recently. It was fabulous and spoils me for staying anywhere else! I have been going to Vegas since the 60’s and used to stay at the Sands…..then Harrah’s. By the way, what have they done to Harrah’s? We loved Rita Rudner’s show but the casino was awful and used to be so nice and low-key.

Thanks,

Sara

Ted Responds:

Harrah’s has “cranked things up a few notches” over the past few years to achieve a party atmosphere to attract a younger crowd. But that does raise some interesting questions to our readers near or in their retirement years:

1. With so many hotels wanting to be “hip” and cater to people barely old enough to drink, what hotels do you no longer visit, and more importantly, which hotels do you love and feel very comfortable at?

2. Now that are are at (or near) retirement, do you come to Las Vegas as much as you used to, more often, or do you feel that Las Vegas isn’t so much your cup of tea and don’t visit so much? If not so much, where else are you going on vacation (gambling city or otherwise)?

We have set up an area of our message boards for you to weigh in:
Is Las Vegas Still OK If You Aren’t 21?

Please remember: Our message boards are sometimes running slow during peak times. Please be patient: The pages will appear and you will be able to read and post after a few seconds.

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

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

  • Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
  • Post a comment, Vegas suggestion, or question to the appropriate category of our Message Boards.
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call, and use some of them on our Radio.AccessVegas.com Streaming Broadcast! (Don’t worry … we never broadcast your personal information. All calls used are edited to insure caller privacy).
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Important Note: During peak times, some of our news and event story links may take extra time to load. We are working on significant upgrades to handle this increased demand. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience during the extra few seconds a story may take to appear when you click on it.

Special Section: New Year’s Eve 2006-2007
Parties, Events, Dining
Special Section: Nevada Smoking Ban Stories Updated

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

  • 2006

  • Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend – Christmas on Monday)
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (3 day weekend – New Years on Monday)

  • 2007

  • Martin Luther King Day January 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Presidents Day February 17-19 (3 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend)
  • St. Patricks Day March 17 (Falls on a Saturday)
  • March Madness (NCAA Basketball Playoffs) March 15-18, March 22-25, Final Four March 31-April 2
  • Victoria Day (Canada) May 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 26-28 (3 day weekend)
  • Mothers Day May 13
  • Fathers Day June 17
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday (Canada) August 6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day September 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Columbus Day (USA), Thanksgiving Day (Canada) September 6-8 (3 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 25 (4 day weekend – Christmas on Tuesday)
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (4 day weekend – New Years on Tuesday)

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

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!

Cafe Belmondo Artisan Roasted Coffee – Take our taste Test and we’ll GIVE you this FREE 12 Cup Brewer and a package of La Tempesta Biscotti! This and other Great Free Stuff, Bargains, and More on our AccessVegas.com Advertiser Deals page. Click there now!

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

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

All contents copyright 2006 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

December 13, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 29, 2006

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

Book Online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We have a freeze advisory tonight. It might get down to freezing the next couple of nights, and highs have only been in the 50’s. Brrrrrrrrr! It has been sunny, but I’ll tell you what: I’ll take our 100 degree summers where we can enjoy the air conditioning in the day, and hang out by the pool all night long instead of freezing overnights. We very rarely dip this low.

Nevada Southern Railway – Riding a tourist train isn’t what most people think of when they think of Las Vegas, but part of the railroad track originally built to haul supplies to Hoover Dam is alive and well running as a tourist railroad in Boulder City (about halfway between Las Vegas and Hoover Dam). The Nevada Southern Railway even offers cab rides and the opportunity to be an “Engineer for an Hour.” Might be worth checking out for train buffs, those with kids, or anyone wanting to enjoy a fun piece of history.

Special American Express Offer To Our Readers: Earn 15,000 Delta Skymiles with A New Delta American Express Card plus Double Miles on qualifying purchases and one mile for virtually every other dollar you spend! I’ve carried the Delta Skymiles AmEx Card for years and enjoy using it as my credit card of choice. Now you too can get the benefits and prestige of an American Express card along with earning miles toward your next trip to Las Vegas (or anywhere Delta flies).

You must use our special offer code 3300297770 in the Unique ID box (copy and paste it in) when you click to Apply For This Great Card!

With Christmas less than a month away, we have a special video for you of Blue Man Group playing Jingle Bells. That, plus all the latest Las Vegas news, events and fun stuff you expect from us every week so let’s get to it.

Enjoy This Issue!

Show Review:
Zumanity – Another Side of Cirque Du Soleil

Reviewed November 2006
by Nancy Dickinson

Cirque du Soleil has always enlightened the spirit with brilliant expeditions celebrating life, beauty, and humanity. It is then only natural that the sultry free-flowing-love show “Zumanity” be born. After all, what is one of humanity’s undoubtedly favorite and essential functions?…sex of course. Love is limitless at the New York New York heating up a giant Las Vegas bedroom cabaret style. Zumanity is peeling away the glorious layers of intimacy and sexuality with a story about personal freedom and acceptance, beauty in all it’s facets, and the celebration of the mysterious, wonderfully convoluted…love. Click to Read Complete Review

Beatles’ LOVE Album Celebrates New Cirque du Soleil Show at The Mirage -á Beatles lovers rejoice! Apple Corps Ltd. and Capitol Records have released the Beatles LOVE album. The much-anticipated album contains the music featured in the Cirque du Soleil/Apple Corps collaborative production, The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage. After being asked by the remaining Beatles to make experimental mixes from their master tapes for a collaboration with Cirque du Soleil, Sir George Martin, The Beatles’ legendary producer, and his son Giles Martin have been working with the entire archive of Beatles’ recordings to create LOVE.

Barry Manilow Trivia Question: When did Barry Manilow (resident headliner at the Las Vegas Hilton) begin his first solo tour? Answer: Barry began his own first solo tour in 1974 and the release of “Mandy” started an unprecedented string of 25 consecutive Top 40 hits, including “Even Now,” “This One’s for You,” “Weekend in New England,” “I Write the Songs” and “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling Again.” Four years later, five of Barry’s albums were on the charts at the same time, a record equaled only by Frank Sinatra and Johnny Mathis. Barry’s current album, BARRY MANILOW’S THE GREATEST SONGS OF THE SIXTIES, is tearing up the charts.

Mamma Mia!, The Smash Hit Musical Based On The Songs Of ABBA, Will Celebrate Its 1500th Show At Mandalay Bay Resort And Casino On November 29. – Now in its fourth triumphant year, MAMMA MIA! has been the most successful full-scale musical ever to play on the Las Vegas Strip. Named the Number #1 Show in Las Vegas by Mike Weatherford of the Las Vegas Review Journal, MAMMA MIA! has not only experienced success in Las Vegas — it has been seen by over 27 million people around the globe and has more productions playing worldwide than any other current Broadway musical. Click to Read The Full Story …

Thanksgiving Day Begins Month Long Las Vegas Show Specials! All Military are Free & Las Vegas Locals get ‘2 for 1′ at Larry G. Jones’ Impressionist show – ‘Tis the season to be entertained and Larry G. Jones — The Man of 1002 Voices helps keep the jingle in your pockets & get the joy in your heart! Starting November 23, and continuing through December 25, 2006: All military (including police and firefighters) get in free and all Las Vegas Locals get ‘2 for 1′ Show tickets at Jones’ Singing Impressionist/Comedy show at Fitzgeralds Casino Showroom, 9pm nightly (except Tues,Wed). “In appreciation of their service and as a thank you to the locals for all the support during my last 4 years as a Las Vegas impressionist I just wanted to offer something in return” Jones said. Click to Read The Full Story …

Hot Drink Recipes to Spice up the Holiday Season – Cold weather calls for hot drinks and what better way spice up the holiday season than a hot toddy!? These recipes, straight from Bellagio’s own Master Mixologist Drew Levinson, are guaranteed to make you feel warm and cozy right down to your toes.

Tequila Toddy — a fun variation on the standard
¥ oz Gran Centenario Anejo Tequila
¢ oz Fresh Agave Nectar
¢ fresh lime juice

Add ingredients to hot water in heated coffee mug and stir well with a spoon.
Garnish with a lime wheel and cinnamon stick

Hot Buttered Rum – made to order from scratch

1 ¢ oz. Cruzan Single Barrel Rum
2 heaping teaspoons hot buttered rum mix***

Mix ingredients with small amount of hot water in heated coffee mug and stir well with a spoon. Once mixed thoroughly, top off mug with hot water.
Serve with a swizzle stick.

***Hot Buttered Rum Mix***

1 lb. light brown sugar
1/2 lb. salted butter
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon high-quality vanilla extract
Yields approx. 1 1/2 lbs.

“Texas Hold ’em” Hits The Links As World Series Of Golf Reinvents Amateur Tournaments With Innovative New Play Format – NBC Televised Event Tees Off In Las Vegas May 13 – 17 With A Dream Team Of Partners Including The Mirage Hotel & Casino And Octagon – The World Series of Golf will tee off May 13 — 17 in Las Vegas, introducing the most exciting golf wagering tournament since the Skins Game. To be played at the Tom Fazio designed Primm Valley Golf Club, the tournament combines the skill of golf with the wagering savvy of poker and gives amateur players the thrilling opportunity to compete for $750,000 in prize money on NBC national television. The World Series of Golf will be played in a patent-pending method of play that allows for high stakes to ride on each and every shot of the tournament. Click to Read The Full Story …

Kristofer’s Steak House At The Riviera Provides Relaxed Setting – With an emphasis on fine steaks and fresh seafood, Kristofer’s, nestled in the venerable Riviera Hotel and Casino, has been heralded as one of the finest steak houses in Las Vegas. “Only the best for our guests,” says Executive Chef Sam Chong. Among the inventive entrees are aged, midwestern prime ribs of beef, broiled fresh salmon or Mahi Mahi, double-rib spring lamb chops, and Kristofer’s classic Surf and Turf. For serious steak connoisseurs, there’s the challenge of a 20-ounce, succulent Porterhouse steak. Click to Read The Full Story …

Las Vegas Monorail Demoted To Junk Status – Moody’s Investors Service cut the credit rating on the Las Vegas Monorail Co. deep into junk status Tuesday and said the tourist train will default on its debt by 2010 if it continues its current rate of losses. The rating on $445.8 million in debt was cut five notches to B3 from Ba1, and the outlook was negative, meaning the company could be in for another downgrade. The move follows a downgrade by Fitch Inc. in March, also to junk grade. Moody’s analyst Maria Matesanz said the monorail company’s revenue needed a dramatic boost to keep from depleting its $60 million in cash reserves over the next three years.Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Evel Knievel Video Slots – with Victor H. Royer. In keeping with the heart-pounding thrills of IGT’s new series of video slot machines, this brand new game features a host of Evel’s best jumps and bonuses. This is a five-reel 15-line game which will thrill you just as Evel Knievel’s stunts did. If you are a slot thrill-seeker, then this is the game for you. State-of-the-art 3-D video animation and actual film footage of Evel’s famous stunts will keep you spellbound in this great game. Click to Read Complete Article

Vegas Photo Set Of The Week: Las Vegas New Years Eve – New Years Eve is closing in on us fast, but it isn’t too late to book now and still be here to enjoy this spectacular, nowhere-else-on-earth-like-it event! View all the photos then book while rooms are still available, they are going very fast:

Vegas Streaming Video Of The Week – Blue Man Group Performing Jingle Bells – Blue Man Group is best known for it’s award-winning theatrical productions which critics have described as “ground-breaking,” “hilarious,” “visually stunning,” and “musically powerful.” These performances feature three enigmatic bald and blue characters who take the audience through a multi-sensory experience that combines theatre, percussive music, art, science and vaudeville into a form of entertainment that is like nothing else.

  • Click To View Blue Man Group Performing Jingle Bells: Broadband (only)

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Readers Write:Dear Mr. Newkirk:Some very close party friends and I are attending a wedding and will be in Las Vegas December 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18. We all work in the various fields of engineering, medical, animal medical, accounting and architecture. I guess some of the crowd would be semi-geeks, but we all party pretty hard and are know to stay up late doing it too.I am 43, single, straight, and it’s my first time to visit Las Vegas, so I am really trying to maximize my itinerary. I really want to soak up this experience. I have a degree in Geography and my profession is in city planning, so I have a wide variety of interests. Sexy women, pretty women, and other women close to pretty interest me greatly. 🙂 Anyway, if there are any tips that are “have to things to do or see” please let me know. I used to work in research, so I’ll be checking everything like a city planner would. I am detailed oriented too.

Any information and TIPs you could provide me would be greatly appreciated. If this is something you don’t do, I’m really sorry I wasted your time.

Best regards,

Rob Hammons

Ted Responds:

Rob,

I’m around your age, straight, single. Some advice:

You are going to get here and go nuts, and you couldn’t see or do everything here in three months. So your homework, get hyped, but get ready to just hang loose. You will be back. Trust me. Be very happy going “that looks great, we can do it next time.”

Per clubbing: At our age, skip spending huge piles of cash on my friend, but neither you nor I are going to go home with Paris Hilton, and they like to keep the girl-to-guy ration high which necessitates buying bottle service if you are a group of guys.

Instead, Voodoo Lounge at Rio. Get there before 10:00 PM, earlier is better to get in. Very comfortable, awesome view from the top of The Rio, nice mix of very nice looking ladies from 25-40’ish. And if that isn’t your cup of tea, Palms is a very short walk.

Very much do appreciate you reading, and telling your friends about this newsletter and AccessVegas.com!

What goes on in Dec in Vegas anything worth going to see.? From the 12 through the 23.Thanks,TerryTed Responds:

Slowest time of year. Rodeo is gone and many shows are on vacation.

You can use our shows search on our shows page to see what shows will be playing, and Bellagio indoors always does a huge Christmas display in their gardens.

Take the good with the bad: won’t be as much going on, but you’ll have some elbow room and lines will be shorter than peak weeks.

To whom it may concern,My brother and I will be coming into Vegas on Saturday 12/16 and leaving on Tuesday 12/19 in the afternoon. This is our first time coming out, so we wanted to really do it up.Can you provide me any information on reserving a table at the following clubs (i.e. how much $$ per table, minimum bottle requirement, entrance to VIP areas, and dates)?> Ghostbar
> Tao
> Lure
> Red Square
> V Bar
> Mix
> Pure
> Playboy Club
> Tryst
> Ava
> Social House
> Tangerine

Thank you for any information you can provide.

Ted Responds:

There is no set price for any and every night. Like hotel rates, it depends on weekday or weekend, what club, what celeb might be making an appearance to celebrate their birthday/divorce/magazine layout/new movie and similar.

You can call our reservations hotline at 800-696-5721 or you can visit Travelnice Nightlife to check things online. If calling, you can talk to someone who can help you with all that info, give you all the details, what clubs will be open or might have something special happening, etc.

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

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

  • Post a trip report to our brand new Trip Report Message Board section! (Simply click on the New Thread option. You may be prompted to register if a fist time user. That keeps our boards safe and spam-free)!
  • Post a comment, Vegas suggestion, or question to the appropriate category of our Message Boards.
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call, and use some of them on our Radio.AccessVegas.com Streaming Broadcast! (Don’t worry … we never broadcast your personal information. All calls used are edited to insure caller privacy).
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

Readers Rants, Raves, and Questions – Great reader questions and comments from our Access Vegas Message Boards. Help someone out or post your own comment or question!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend – Christmas on Monday)
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 29 – January 1 (3 day weekend – New Years on Monday)

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For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.All contents copyright 2006 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

November 27, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About UsProud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

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