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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 26, 2002

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

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

THIS ISSUE: Showgirls Of Magic

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for March / April:

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Showgirls Of Magic:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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EVENT LISTINGS:

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

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

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

FEEDBACK:

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 18, 2001

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WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 60 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

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

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

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

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

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

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS, INFO, and SPECIALS:

Wheel of Fortune has been very, very lucky. The Harrah’s win was in November, and the December win just happened a few days ago. You could be next!

ARIZONA MAN WINS BIG AT HARRAH’S:

Bryan Sundblom says that the first thing he’s going to do with the $2.5 million he won Sunday evening at Harrah’s Las Vegas playing Wheel of Fortune(R) quarters is buy his wife a new car. The Arizona microbiologist said the jackpot came as such a surprise, he had to be told several times that he had hit the progressive.

In Las Vegas on business, Sundblom said he had invested $22.00 in the
machine when the Wheel of Fortune(R) logos lined up. In addition to the new
car, he says he’ll pay off bills and looks forward to enjoying his millionaire
status.

HAWAIIAN GUEST HITS $2.5 MILLION JACKPOT AT THE CALIFORNIA HOTEL:

Honolulu resident David Tokunaga is the latest of Las Vegas’ big winners, grabbing a stunning $2.5 million jackpot at the California Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Mr. Tokunaga was playing the “Wheel of Fortune” slot machine.

BELLAGIO HONORED WITH AAA FIVE DIAMOND AWARD:

Association Five Diamond Award, the first Las Vegas hotel and casino and the largest resort in AAA history to receive this honor. The AAA Five Diamond Award, presented to fewer than one-half percent of the approximately 40,000 lodgings and restaurants in the AAA TourBook guides, has been the most coveted symbol of excellence in the travel industry since its inception in 1977.

“The Five Diamond Award is only given to establishments that exemplify an impeccable standard of excellence,” said AAA spokesman Atle Eriingsson. “What makes Bellagio even more impressive is its ability to achieve such a standard with over 3,000 rooms, far more than any other Five Diamond winner, which until now have included properties with 10 to 896 guestrooms.”

To be considered for AAA approval and rating, lodgings and restaurants must undergo a thorough, unannounced, inspection by one of AAA’s s 60 full-time professional evaluators. Five Diamond establishments go through the most extensive reviews.

Inspired by the beautiful villages of Europe, Bellagio overlooks a Mediterranean-blue eight-acre lake in which fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet choreographed to music and lights. Bellagio offers 3,005 deluxe guest rooms and suites featuring sweeping vistas of the resort’s lake, surrounding mountains and Las Vegas skyline. Each room is elegantly appointed with custom European-style furnishings, fine art and conveniences such as computer and fax accessible data ports and multiple telephone lines.

Within Bellagio are award-winning dining experiences including the world-renowned Picasso, a year-round botanical conservatory, a world-class art gallery, Cirque du Soleil’s stunning performance of “O”,” luxurious spa services and an elegant casino. The resort’s shopping promenade, Via Bellagio, features upscale shops including Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Prada, Fred Leighton, Hermes, Moschino and Yves Saint Laurent.

With Las Vegas room rates still down a bit, this is the perfect time to indulge on your next trip and be one of the few that can say “I stayed at a 5 Diamond Resort”! Link to Bellagio information and rates / availability at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm

THE STEAK HOUSE – CIRCUS CIRCUS: This special guest review by reader Jenny Wyatt

This was our 5’th visit to Las Vegas but our first visit to The Steak House which is situated in Circus Circus. This restaurant isn’t exactly what you’d expect inside a hotel which is aimed at children and circuses but I was pleasantly surprised!

When you enter you are faced with slabs of meat and lobster behind glass and it struck me as looking very English (I say very English as being from the UK I felt like I was walking into a Steak House back home). The bar come waiting area is very comfortable with settees to sink into while you wait for your table. This bar area is quite dark and has a very Victorian feel to it.

The restaurant is very well set out and is very reminiscent of Victorian England. They say on their menu that they “offer exquisite dining in a warm atmosphere of casual elegance” and this is quite true it does have a warm atmosphere and the decor is very tasteful.

There is a “cooking area” where you can actually see the steaks being cooked which is always a good thing as you then know that they have nothing to hide in their kitchens!

There is plenty of choice on the menu and for appetizers we tried the Shrimp Cocktail, the Mushrooms and the Crab Cocktail. The Shrimp Cocktail was nothing like we get in the UK. A crock shell was put in front of me filled with ice and jumbo prawns were placed on top together with lemon and a cocktail sauce (why they called it a shrimp cocktail when you were served giant prawns I don’t know!!). The mushrooms were very tasty and so was the crab. The appetizers started at a price of $4.95 up to $18.95.

When you order your main course you are also given the choice of Black Bean Soup or Salad. We all plumped for the salad of which there was mountains, but not wanting to spoil the main course I don’t think it was all eaten.

The steaks were delicious. This is one of the only steak houses I have got what I asked for — “how would you like yours cooked?” asked the waiter — “VERY well done” was my reply and yes, it was VERY well done — I’m one of these people who does NOT like ANY red showing in the meat and it came to the table in exactly the way I liked, delicious it was too.

If, like my friend, you’re not into steaks then the chicken breasts were very nice and the selection of Garlic Mashed Potato, Rice Pilaf or Baked Potato was a good choice. The steaks range from $17.95 up to $27.95, the chicken was $16.95 but they also offer Salmon and Halibut at $18.95. The Lobster and Crab legs were market price, so it’s worth asking before ordering. Lamb Chops are also on offer at $27.95.

There are deserts on offer but after an appetizer, salad and a main course there was not room left for a pudding!! They offer freshly baked goods — which if you have room looked delicious.

I will definitely be visiting the Steak House on my next visit to Las Vegas as it has a very relaxing atmosphere to all the hustle and bustle of the casinos and you can take your time over a delicious meal. Although the cost is slightly higher than your average restaurant (if you are on a budget) but I would recommend saving those pennies and have a nice quiet evening in a relaxed and very nice Steak House.

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

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for December / January:

* Luxor From $55.95 until 01/31/02
* Monte Carlo From $55.95 until 01/31/02
* Sahara From $35.95 until 01/31/02

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

SECURE ORDERING – We frequently get asked how safe giving your credit card over the internet is. When you buy on the internet, the information is scrambled in a way that is virtually impossible to unscramble except by the receiving computer. That computer then checks with a computer to confirm product availability and then gets credit card approval from another computer.

No humans involved, and your reservation is confirmed in seconds. Compare that to giving your credit card to a waiter at a restaurant (where they vanish for 5 minutes with it) or a live reservations clerk that obtains tons of info about you. Who is more likely to commit fraud with your card, 3 computers or a live human making a possibly low wage?

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

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

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

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

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

WINNERS! – The winners of the Calvin Brooks CD’s (smooth jazz artist appearing regularly in Harrah’s Range Steakhouse lounge) are: Diane McDonald – Bradenton, FL, Jimmy Salyers – Lexington, KY, and Ying Mah – Wichita, KS.

 

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

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

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

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

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

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

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SPECIAL BULLETIN:

ALL VEGAS TV: Is our new, long awaited monthly online TV show. We got a bit behind schedule with the Sept. 11 fallout, but the official premiere will be the February episode, launching mid-January. It’s already in the can and we are thrilled with it. We have a great interview with Wolfgang Puck, we show you the inside of the Guggenheim Museum, and more.

Now that we are rolling, we are looking for the following people who would like to be involved. See if you fit the bill and contact info will be at the end. Aspiring talent is welcome — this is great exposure. We will direct you to our media preview (already online) so you can get a better understanding of what All Vegas TV is.

ACTOR AND ACTRESS: For parts in two commercial spots which will be used to promote booking travel at AccessVegas.Comááá Hundreds of thousands will view (over time) and we will post your contact info if desired.

SWIMWEAR / BIKINI MODELS: It is a little brisk in Las Vegas right now but fun and pool weather is right around the corner. Still and motion photography will be used as “bumpers” (short segments between major stories) promoting Las Vegas fun and sun. Hundreds of thousands will view (over time) and we will post your contact info if desired.

CAMERA OPERATOR: If you enjoy playing around with your video camera, have some real fun shooting Las Vegas with us. A couple times a month (and with advance notice) we need someone behind the camera while I’m in front covering the “party” side of Las Vegas. Clubs, New Year’s Eve, Spring Break and the like. If you aren’t energetic, or balk at the thought of getting a little beer spilled on you, this one isn’t for you.

If interested, drop me a line at (click) mailto:ted@accessvegas.comááá I’ll get back to you with detail after Christmas as well as the location of our online media preview so you can see the full scope of this project.

 

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

We’ve gotta talk about New Year’s Eve! I especially want to talk to those of you on the West coast who are within driving distance. You have a golden opportunity this year that I’ve never seen before, and we probably won’t see again. Because a fair number of people from the East coast are too concerned about long-haul flights to come out, rooms are not only still available for New Year’s Eve, but cheaper than in years past.

Plus, those of you that drive in really have the advantage because you can stay off The Strip. There are thousands of rooms (some in casinos, some not) within a few blocks of The Strip as well the “local’s” casinos. What’s it going to be this year, another year of watching Dick Clark and people in New York City freeze to death on tape delay (it’s 9 PM here when midnight strikes there) or being in the middle of this party:

At midnight on December 31, the city will celebrate with a spectacular fireworks show billed as “America’s Party: Las Vegas New Year 2002.” A five-mile stretch of sky above the Las Vegas Strip will be transformed into the canvas for a feat of pyrotechnic mastery. Fireworks with names like Comets, Plumes and Oscillating Flares will illuminate the sky above the Las Vegas Strip, for seven minutes and 11 seconds.

Don’t take my word for it. Our photos from last year are at http://www.las-vegas-new-years-eve.com and we have booking info there as well. One note: most hotels are requiring that you stay at least Dec. 28 – Jan. 1 (4 nights or more) so remember to enter those dates for maximum availability. If last year was any indication, you don’t want to miss this one!

New casinos are opening — the party doesn’t stop in Las Vegas! The Palms recently opened, and must be seen to be believed. Upscale with the feel suited to South Florida, this new resort is kitty-corner from The Rio just off The Strip. Of particular note is the Ghostbar lounge, one of the most amazing views of The Strip in town. Green Valley Ranch opens in a matter of hours (as I write this), so we’ll size it up in the future. We have links to info on both hotels at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm

Speaking of, we were at the grand reopening of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago in The Forum Shops (Caesars Palace) a couple of weeks ago. The food is superb, the atmosphere fantastic, and Puck and his staff (as always) the gracious hosts.

I’d tell you more about it, but instead we are going to show it to you in the premiere episode of All Vegas TV in January. Including an interview with Mr. Puck conducted by our very own Elizabeth Rizzo. We are still looking for great additional people who want to get involved with All Vegas TV.

Puck is offering a free bottle of wine at his Las Vegas restaurants Spago (702-369-6300), Lupo (702-740-5522), Postrio (702-796-1110), and Chinois (702-737-9700) with every meal in December. Simply inform the hostess when making reservations or upon arrival.

Cheval (mentioned last issue, archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-11-07.htm ) is drawing great reviews all around. If you like Cirque du Soleil style entertainment, enjoy horses, or appreciate a good show this is one to see before the run ends!

Attendance at Comdex was reported to be way off — as little as 1/2 of the usual 250,000 people due to terrorism fears and the bottom falling out on all those crazy Dot Com companies. (Funny, here in the internet travel business, we did business the old fashioned way. We sold a good, real product at a great price. We’re still here and growing). Anyway, I digress!

I have mixed thoughts on this. Yes, it is good to expose Las Vegas to as many people as possible with conventions. But hotels have to charge top dollar for hotels during Comdex to make up for the fact that computer industry people are least likely to gamble. This ties up rooms, and drives up rates during a November week we usually have flawless weather (highs around 75-80) and depriving the regular visitors of the ability to get a room that week.

Sheena Easton is returning to the Las Vegas Hilton, where she had a great run this summer. My review and ticket information are at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/sheena-easton-las-vegas-hilton.htm

Tours have resumed at Hoover Dam, but unfortunately the $25, one hour “hard hat” tour was a casualty of the new security precautions. Having the pleasure of taking the hard hat tour last year, I can understand why. They took you into the bowels of the dam and quite a bit of the operation. Hoover Dam is still a marvel that must be seen in real life. Visitors are allowed (and tours conducted) during daylight hours. Go earlier in the day to avoid crowds.

Nevada’s jobless rate was the highest in the nation last month. Quit moving here (unless you are retired or independently wealthy) until things get better. As you can imagine, longtime residents with a work history here are going to be hired back before someone new and Las Vegas is no fun when you are struggling with cash.

The Bootlegger Restaurant continues to be a local secret, but obviously not for long. Nevada Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt and her husband “Blackie” run the family owned Italian eatery and are joined by “Sonny” King every Friday and Saturday evening at 10 PM for a true, free-form, old style Las Vegas lounge show. Lorraine and Sonny sing while Blackie plays the piano. Although not of that era (I’m 36), it is a fun, relaxing time to enjoy quality entertainment that brings Las Vegas’ past to the present.

Word is getting around. Last Friday, John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin on Cheers) was enjoying the show. A few weeks ago, Hugh Hefner and his seven girlfriends (Mandi, Brandi, Candi, Sandi … or something like that) stopped by for dinner. The Bootlegger is easy to find. Simply drive south on the Strip past Vacation Village and go a couple more miles The Bootlegger sits just south of the Belz Factory Outlet Mall on your left. Lorraine, Blackie, and Sonny start the show around 10 PM and perform 3-4 hours.

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FEEDBACK:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
December 18, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 13, 2000

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Jerry Lewis

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

 

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

IMPLOSION TIME? – Rumor is floating around that the El Rancho (north end of
the strip) is going to be imploded the first week of October. As soon as we
can confirm, we’ll let you know!

NOT THE BEST WEEK – for a few tourists. A shooting in Harrah’s left one
person dead, and a bus overturned about 4 hours north of Las Vegas,
injuring all on board (many seriously). Harrah’s story at
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2000/sep/08/510739217.html
and the bus wreck story is at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-09-Sat-2000/news/14350317.html Our
poll for this week asks you how safe you feel coming to Las Vegas in light
of news like this. Poll is at http://www.accessvegas.com

SOUTHWEST AIR – is launching new service from Birmingham, AL to Las Vegas
and for a limited time are offering an introductory fair of $198. You need
to book by Dec. 10 at http://www.southwest.com

RESTAURANTS – Here are some various recent restaurant reviews from various
local media:

Grand Lux (Venetian) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
House of Blues (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D57932
Postrio (Venetian) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D42354
Spago (Caesars) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-01-Fri-2000/weekly/14261700.html

TOM JONES IMPRESSION – From the quirky file: A man was arrested at (Las
Vegas’) McCarran Airport for smuggling a dozen lizards into the country …
in his underwear. Story at
http://www.apbnews.com/newscenter/breakingnews/2000/09/07/lizards0907_01.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE – has been so popular that it is extended again to any
reservation made in Sept. (for travel
any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=3DIVC&LKF=3DIVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

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

WINNERS! – Charles R. Beck II or Minooka, IL won the Review-Journal special
section about the Aladdin opening.

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations
EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all
your needs directly online! Search by dates at
http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=3D5&amid=3D143

MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS – The John Gray best-selling book
as been turned into a musical revue and debuts at The Flamingo on Sept. 17.
It is billed as “A musical revue about love — the good, the bad, and the
funny.” Tickets available at (800) 221-7299 and full story at
http://news.excite.com/news/pr/000906/nv-grays-mars-venus

SKINTIGHT – or a strip club? The Review-Journal reviewed this new show at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-08-Fri-2000/lifestyles/14316763.html

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

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

Thursday – 103/71 Sunny
Friday – 103/69 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 104/66 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 104/65 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Jerry Lewis

Rarely do you get a chance to see a living legend — someone who both
transformed comedy and has ties to old Las Vegas. And as someone in my
mid-30’s, my only knowledge of Jerry Lewis has been the telethons and his
goofy comedy movies from long before I was born.

As noted here a few weeks ago, Jerry Lewis recently inked a 20 year deal
with The Orleans hotel, and relatively new off-strip property located about
10 minutes from the Strip on Tropicana. Since he is going to be a regular
headliner (3-4 times a year), I decided it would be great chance to find
out what he is all about. Boy, am I glad I did!

Jerry Lewis took the stage to a standing ovation, and you could tell that
he was in his element. He was essentially his own opening act, spending the
first 20 minutes or so telling some (by his own admittance) corny jokes and
then singing a couple of numbers. Not unlike what you might see on the
telethon.

After an instrumental by his 21 piece orchestra, he came back and really
kicked it into high gear. There was no specific theme, but more of a
nonstop intertwining of entertainment. He’d do some of the impressions he
made famous over the years, live bits from his films, and sing songs.

If you want to know who Jim Carrey borrowed his act from, go see Jerry
Lewis. This man’s physical humor wasn’t a creation for the silver screen,
and he still was just about as quick and agile as ever, including brushing
himself off from a nasty (unplanned) fall and going on like a trooper. He
pulled off everything from catching a spinning, tossed cigarette in his
mouth to his funny faces and antics, all the time doing banter, jokes, and
commentary in his many unique voices.

Those who long for old Las Vegas, or just wonder what it would have been
like would enjoy the time he spends reminiscing about Dean Martin and Frank
Sinatra, which included personal thoughts and stories as well as a few
short video clips. As a tribute to Frank, he sang Sinatra’s infamous
arrangement of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.”

Jerry is 74 years old, was very ill last year with spinal meningitis, was
only one week removed from the grueling MDA telethon, and on his fourth of
four nights. And yet, he did an energetic 2 hours 15 minutes virtually
nonstop, roughly twice the length that most Las Vegas shows now run. And,
you could see his joy of performing and love toward the audience shining
through.

Go see Jerry Lewis. If you are a little older, and you enjoy some of the
classic songs from that era and remember his films, go see Jerry Lewis. If
you want to see how a single performer can command a stage and an audience
in a way few do today, go see Jerry Lewis. If you wonder what is was like
back in the Rat Pack days when Las Vegas was a little more swinging, and
the performers truly looked like they were having a great time onstage, go
see Jerry Lewis.

Go see Jerry Lewis.

Jerry is scheduled to perform 3-4 times a year at The Orleans and we’ll
print future dates as the information is available. Tickets started at
$54.95 plus tax for this last run, and The Orleans runs a free shuttle from
the Barbary Coast on the Strip to the Orleans 365 days a year.

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Need a Vegas apartment? How about $100 cash? =20
Go to http://www.viva.com and get both. Just request exactly =20
what you want and get custom rental offers from matching properties. =20
Sign a lease by September 30, 2000 and get $100 cash bonus!

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Dean King from MN wrote:

> I receive another famous Las Vegas newsletter
>three times monthly and I must say this newsletter is
>so much better it is really no contest. It is obvious
>that a whole lot of effort is put into this
>publication. The reviews are extremely interesting
>along with the news articles and entertainment
>listings. Not long ago I asked for a restaurant review
>for a place behind the hotel we were staying at and I
>had an answer and excellent review—-within minutes.
>Again congratulations for the excellent
>production——–

Thanks for the kind words. If you are hard-core for Las Vegas and you want
more info than you get here every week, let me suggest the Everything Las
Vegas newsletter. This twice-weekly newsletter is packed (and I mean packed
— about twice as long as this one) with any and all news pertaining to Las
Vegas tourism. Unlike mine, it provides substantial coverage to casinos and
restaurants away from The Strip and Downtown. Subscribe information is at
http://hometown.aol.com/mrvegas98

Michele in Dallas wrote:

>Hi Ted
>
>A hint for your readers.
>
>My friend Maria and I were very pleased when we got a last minute deal
>for a hotel room at the Bellagio. It is beauty. As is typical, we
>were running late. We were on our way to see Mystere at Treasure
>Island. We went downstairs and stood aghast at the long line of
>people waiting to eat at “Cafe Bellagio.” We had no time to waste
>waiting in line.
>
>I decided to ask how long the wait. She mentioned
>that we could go to the counter and eat. They have about 10 or so bar
>stools at the counter (much like a diner) but in the main restaurant.
>It is first come first serve. Prices are the same as eating at a
>table/booth. We were able to eat and leave within 20 minutes. You
>can order breakfast all day long too.

Lynda Loipersbeck wrote:

>Dear Ted, I just have to comment about this Roger Radjeski’s e-mail to
>you concerning his trip to Las Vegas. How it would have been a “waste
>of time” had he not seen the canyon, valley, the dam and the
>wilderness. After 30 trips
>from Canada we have never seen the canyon, valley the dam or the
>wilderness and never want to. We come to Vegas like most people, for
>the excitement, the shows, the food, to gamble, to eat, to SMOKE, and
>to drink. To be alive and throw our hard earned money away and enjoy
>doing it. Vegas is the best city in the world as far as I’m
>concerned and I wouldn’t trade it for all the wilderness in
>Canada…and I AM CANADIAN

Certainly, I think the majority of people come for the gambling. For those
interested in the scenery, browse the tours at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours and
for those who don’t have an interest in gambling, we have non-gaming
activities listed at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm But, I agree
that 99.9999% come here to get a little wild and reckless and maybe hit it
big!

Lorraine Child from New Zealand wrote:

>Your newsletter of 06 September mentioned that Circus Circus is one of
>five worst buffets in Las Vegas. We are visiting in October so could
>you tell us the names of the other 4 please. We do not get to visit

>as often as we would like as we are from New Zealand and need all the
>help we can get to not make a mistake while there. Thanks for the
>newsletter which we enjoy immensely.

While this is subjective, these are the five I’d avoid at all costs: Circus
Circus, Imperial Palace, Holiday Inn Boardwalk, Westward Ho, and Lady Luck.
The best? The Aladdin (hands down), but with Bellagio a close second.
Downtown? Main St. Station, although it doesn’t hold a candle to the other
two.

Stephen Wark of Venice, CA wrote:

>I am going to be in Las Vegas during Halloween this year. Where can I
>find current information about any special events that may be
>occurring for this “holiday?”

The MGM Theme Park usually does a “Haunted Park.” I’ll post info on it when
available. The Tropicana is home to the Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball.
More info on that available at http://www.halloweenball.com/main.htm
(Warning: adult content).

>Thanks for the informative newsletter. Its a pleasure to read about
>the going-ons in America most extraordinary and spectacular
>playground. Can you give out a little extra information in one of the
>upcoming newsletters? I think a lot of people bet horse racing when
>they visit Vegas. What sportsbooks handle the “Sport of Kings”, and
>make a point to really place emphasis on the betting of thoroughbreds.

Most of the major hotels have a race book in the sports book area. I have
virtually no knowledge regarding horse racing. Readers, if you bet the
ponies, drop a line to allvegastv@aol.com and let us know which are the
better race books and why!

Barb from Alberta, Canada wrote:

>I have been to Las Vegas on a couple of occasions. I am returning mid
>October with my daughter for her 21st birthday. I would like to make
>this trip as special as I can for her. She would like to see a male
>strip show and I can only find one at the Olympic Garden. Do you have
>any info on what type of place this is and is it safe? In other words
>would you bring your 21 year old daughter there? Also I would like to
>book a spa for us on the day of her birthday (Oct.16). Any info on
>where the deals on spa packages are? Where’s a good place to have our
>hair done (without it costing us our whole weeks budget)? Any other
>info you can give me would be appreciated. Thanks

I’m a guy, but I know women who have checked out the male revue there and
had a good time. Call ahead — I’m not sure if it plays every night or just
weekends. That area of town is marginal, but security around the venue is
fine and they have on-site parking.

I’m also the wrong person to ask about spas and hair … so readers, help
us out! Tell us about your favorite spa and the best hair salon on the
strip at allvegastv@aol.com

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

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

 

ONLINE POLL – This week’s poll: “Do the recent tragedies involving Las
Vegas tourist (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of
coming to Las Vegas?” Make your opinion count at http://www.accessvegas.com

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter
every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date
and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in
each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified
email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win.
Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

VIVA LAS VEGAS – As promised, we have two tickets to the long-running Viva
Las Vegas show. However, you can’t use these for admission. These
collectors items are tickets to the show at the legendary Sands Casino. So,
we are going to make you work for them! You need to tell us, in order, what
five Las Vegas hotels have the most rooms. As a tiebreaker, please put down
what you think the total amount of rooms these five hotels has, combined.
If more than two correct entries (including tiebreaker), winners will be
chosen at random from correct entries. E-mail answers to
vivacontest@in-vegas.com Contest ends Sept. 30, 2000 NOTE: I have
documented this information from what I deem to be a reliable source, and
the information I have will be the used to gauge the winning submissions
regardless of whatever conflicting information someone else might present.

TWA – Airlines is giving away two domestic (US) round trip tickets every
day, and they fly to Las Vegas! Enter at
http://twa.phototrust.com/Caption.asp=20

lasvegas.com is giving away 5 dinners worth $200 (for 4 people apiece).
Prize Details:
* 3 dinners at Emeril’s at the MGM Grand
* 2 dinners at Del Frisco on Paradise Road
Enter at http://www.lasvegas.com/events/foodnetwork/contest.html

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 13, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770