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Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 7, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’d like to personally apologize if you visited over the weekend into the early week. Temperatures struggled to make it to 50 degrees F and we had numerous overnight lows below freezing. If you are a regular reader, you know that I’ve reminded everybody over the past few months that our average Dec. and Jan. low temps are 57 (for both months). Fortunately, we’re pretty much getting back to those numbers. And, that the actual temperature can easily be 10+ degrees of average.

Working Pretty Well – Posting the newsletter online (instead of delivering it in email) is a nice step forward. So many more are enjoy it because it doesn’t get caught in spam filters. Additionally, the look and feel stays intact for ease of reading. Even more importantly, I don’t have to kill myself trying to censor it. We have to use words like strip (as in Las Vegas Strip), casinos, gambling, poker, topless (as in shows) and similar. And those are some of the exact words which spam filters use to keep email from getting to you.

Sahara Officially Renamed – A Bloomberg interview with Sahara owner Sam Nazarian indicates that he will be changing the name of the property to SLS Las Vegas and the property will be remade as a trendy, boutique hotel. Which (as I’ve stated before) won’t work in that location in a million years. In related news…

Fon-Tain-Blu-(Goes-Boom)? – The Fontainebleau (spelled phonetically in the blurb title) is seeing quite a bit of hard hat action lately. As exclusively reported by Scott Whitney on Living in Las Vegas #133, discovery is being done to figure out whether it is cheaper to implode the building or take it apart and sell the steel. However, given the resurgence of the Las Vegas economy and solid projections of visitor growth over the next few years, I have to think that finishing the property is still an option.

I have mixed emotions. The building is very out-of-place for the location, boring looking, and and way too tall. Having said that, demolition would be a black eye on Las Vegas at a time things have really turned around. As always, we’ll keep you posted! Speaking of Las Vegas turning around…

You Don’t Say – Analysts are noting modest revenue increases for Las Vegas tourism in 2012 on the heels of gains in the past few months. We didn’t need analysts to figure this out. How about you walk around downtown or The Strip and look with you own eyes. Las Vegas is jammed again!

Biggest growth for 2012 will be in the affluent traveler segment. For those of you complaining that Las Vegas is becoming just for the rich (completely not true, and we give examples of room and food bargains on a regular basis), certainly the segment catering to the wealthier visitor will increase. Look for every steepening rates at places like Wynn/Encore, Venetian/Palazzo, CityCenter, and even Bellagio.

Regardless of the level of your accommodations, prices are on the rise. If you are even thinking about a 2012 Vegas vacation, I’d strongly suggest clicking over to visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and enter some dates looking to lock something up. Waiting will only bring higher prices.

Many of you saw an article titled Is Nevada recovering? Depends on who you ask in your local papers. Considering that the article was written by someone from out-of-state, they actually did a pretty good job of nailing it. If you are on tourism, you’re probably doing fine. The sector is starting to return to normal. For those in construction, forget about it. Years will go by before the foreclosure housing is absorbed (prompting new home construction),áno resorts are on the drawing board, and we have a glut of commercial space.

Thank You Steve Wynn – According to a recent published report, it was Steve Wynn who at a routine meeting with Clark County (Las Vegas) Sheriff Doug Gillespie brought up the issue of how intimidating the pornslappers (adult escort service handbill distributors) were to visitors. Gillespie and the companies who do the “handbilling” have evidently come to an agreement.

Police won’t harass the pornslappers (who are protected under their right to free speech) if the distributors agree to doing things like not slapping the cards (which makes a noise and gets people’s attention), not shoving them in people’s faces, cleaning up after themselves and similar. We’ll see how this is going. As I’ve always noted, the best advice is to literally ignore them. Treat them like they don’t exist.

50/50 – Las Vegas is now attracting just as many female visitors as male. This is a sharp cry from when I first moved here in 1993 and Vegas was a “boys vacation” town. Lots more things for girls to do to get in trouble then there was back then…

Take A Ride On The Wild Side – Motley Crue is slated to do 12 dates at the Hard Rock during the months of February. This is an experiment to see if a hard rock act can make a residency work in Las Vegas a la Celine Dion. This won’t be a typical Motley concert date (which are pretty theatrical to begin with). They promise to use the fact that they’ll be in one spot (they don’t have to break the show down each night) to add all kinds of twists and turns to the show. Tickets are now available: Motley Crue Las Vegas Tickets

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Holly Madison, Birthday, Chateau Nightclub, PeepshowHolly Madison Celebrated her Birthday at Chateau Nightclub and Gardens – The gorgeous Holly Madison wowed the crowd on the red carpet as she celebrated her 32nd birthday at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens inside Paris Las Vegas, Saturday night. The Las Vegas ”PEEPSHOW” star dazzled in a gold sparkle dress by Versace for H&M collection and red sparkle Christian Louboutin stilettos with gold spikes. Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Railroad Pass, Gingerbread, ChristmasRailroad Pass Hotel and Casino Announces Gingerbread Houses Display – It’s Holiday time at the Historic Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino. And, as part of the year- long 80th birthday celebration, they are bringing back a tradition from the 1800’s with the artistry of Gingerbread Houses.

The Hard Rock Store Supports The Salvation Army – Donate And Win! – ‘Tis the season for giving and The Hard Rock Store inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino supports The Salvation Army of Southern Nevada by encouraging guests to make donations between now and the end of the year. Suitable items include non-perishable food and cold weather attire.

winter cocktailThe Waterfall, Atrium and Gardens Of The Palazzo Transform Into A Majestic Winter Utopia û Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resorts’ festive Winter in Venice cocktails – As part of The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs (click link to book) inaugural Winter in Venice celebration, the resortsÆ horticulture team put the finishing touches on its unique winter displays in the resortÆs Waterfall, Atrium & Gardens this morning. Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resortsÆ festive Winter in Venice cocktails while enjoying the distinctive scenery including the popular Gondolier Blanco served at The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs bars and lounges.

Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon TourDream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with beverages, snacks and Extra Flight Time in the Grand Canyon! Experience the journey of a lifetime. Your journey begins with a flight out of Las Vegas to Hidden Valley to see the arches. Continue your journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape.

Click To Book Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Las Vegas Cashes In on Reality Television – Las Vegas is famous for its glitz and glamor. The vibrant city oozes sex appeal. Increasingly, the characters on reality television programs set in Las Vegas provide fascinating scripts not even Hollywood could create. From the young, wild and hot on the E! Channel’s ”Holly’s World”, to big spenders indulging at the Hard Rock’s Rehab pool party, to oddballs getting locked up on Tru TV’s ”Las Vegas Jailhouse”, it all adds up to free promotion for the entertainment capital of the world. Read More…
  • Las VegasÆ Over-the-Top Bathrooms – Any self-respecting traveler knows the importance of finding a clean public bathroom. It’s a place not only to take care of “‘business,” but a place to regroup and take a break from the masses. But in Las Vegas some public bathrooms are giving new meaning to the term royal flush. From over-the-top decor, to wall art that keeps customers lingering (maybe a bit too long) –even free language lessons, a trip to the bathroom can be as exciting as hitting the jack pot. Read more…
  • Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat – Living in Las Vegas certainly has many perksà one being the amazing access you get to activities usually planned for vacation trips. One great example that we’ve come across is the Dolphin Habitat at Mirage. Eight magical Atlantic bottlenose dolphins just waiting for you to join them as a ôtrainer for a dayàö You’ll get to feed the dolphins, learn to train the dolphins, and dine with the dolphins.
  • Red Rock Canyon Time Lapse Scenic Drive – Last week, we presented the Red Rock Casino to Blue Diamond time lapse drive. Now see what happens when you take the ultra-scenic Red Rock Canyon loop. A fast drive though the 12.5 mile narrow road of Red Rock Canyon Park just outside of Las Vegas.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I live in South Florida and visit Vegas every year, sometimes twice. If they build a huge casino complex in Miami it would not change my visiting Vegas. I don’t come to Vegas for the gambling but for the shows, restaurants and fun. The gambling in second. Before I moved to FL (2 years ago) I lived in MD and seldom went to Atlantic City. Not a fun place. No matter how many casinos/resorts they build in the country there is still only one Vegas!!!

Doris Osborne

 

Ted Responds:

A recent pretty lengthy article in our newspaper was examining this, and the consensus agrees with you. The Miami developers are quoting crazy numbers when they refer to the visitors they’ll steal from Las Vegas. The same point as yours was also made: Las Vegas isn’t just about gambling. It is the excitement of the entire destination!

Don’t get me wrong: People from the east will take the shorter flight for a quick Miami vacation that involves gambling. But most likely not as a replacement to their Vegas trips.

Unless or until Miami or Cuba builds their own version of the Las Vegas strip with miles of gaming resorts, single casinos in various locals a round the country just wet people’s appetite for Las Vegas. I hate to sound like a broken record, but we’re on pace to tie the record for visitors this year and pass it next year. That’s not exactly a sign that other gaming destinations are keeping people away!

Just back from a two-night, three-day stay in Vegas, our first trip to Sin City in two years. We stayed at MGM Grand. No room matching our reservation for non-smoking and one king-size bed was ready upon our arrival, and my wife wasn’t feeling well after the flight, so we had to spend an hour in a bar waiting for a room (our paperwork, by the way, guaranteed our room by 3 p.m., but we didn’t get ours until 4 p.m.). After that, though, we had a great trip, with time poolside, a nice first-day hit at video poker, and an outing to Fremont Street.

My wife had never been to Fremont Street; I’d seen the same shows there a few times and would have skipped it myself. However, the new (to me) Fremont Street Experience shows (we saw the “American Pie” and “Tribute to Queen” shows, plus one more) were a pleasant surprise to me, so we both enjoyed the outing.

During our stay, we enjoyed fine meals at the Wolfgang Puck and Diego at MGM, and a nice lunch at an outdoor table at Trader Vic’s at Planet Hollywood. We thought we’d have a nice view of the Bellagio fountains there, but the view is better from the outdoor tables at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris.

We were very impressed by our first visit to Planet Hollywood. I’d never been impressed by the former Aladdin, but very much like what they’ve done with the place. I spent some time at the Planet Hollywood sports book and found it to be comfortable, with a nice variety of big TVs for football.

The only show we saw on this trip was “Zumanity”, which we thought was great. We hadn’t known about the comic relief in this show, and that really added to our enjoyment of the show. Maybe we just got lucky, but the audience members roped into the show were cooperative and funny…I imagine not everyone would be!

One final point about a merchant we’ve come to feel offers unique, beautiful jewelry at reasonable prices and with unmatched service: Bernard Passman’s black coral jewelry store at Venetian. On top of what I’ve just said, I can add that they stand by the quality of their jewelry without hesitation.

I enjoy the newsletter and look forward to each issue; I also look forward to returning to Vegas sooner next time, as our package at MGM included an airfare credit for our next trip!

Scott from Dimondale, MI

 

Ted Responds:

First of all, I need to note that we just found a bunch of great trip reports from 2008 that got orphaned in our system. This was one of them. Over time, we’ll be running those which are still relevant.

When you have issues with a property, I still highly recommend sending a polite but pointed snail mail to the hotel in question. I realize that complaining on social media is becoming more popular, but the ease of it often makes business more dismissive of it. For a long time I remember Wynn’s Twitter feed getting filled with complaints. And the response to each was “call us”. I mean… they can’t very well fix things over Twitter (or even Facebook). Do one better and write them and you might be surprised at how they’ll work to make it up to you!

Membership Update – We’re a few weeks away from going to a paid subscriber model for the newsletter. Unquestionably, our information and advice improves your Las Vegas vacations. When you know what is happening, where the deals are, how not to get ripped off and similar, you maximize the time you have here (which doesn’t come cheap when you factor in air and hotel costs).áThe price will be less than $2 a month ($23.95 per year). That’s less than the price of a soda and candy bar at your local mini-mart.

Why this change when we’ve been free for so long? Simple: When I started in 1999, there really wasn’t that much Vegas news to sift through (and the newsletter was much shorter). Over the years, the time it takes to read all the papers, magazines, blogs, news feeds, press releases and similar and distill it all for you has grown intense.

AccessVegas.com has suffered because of our attention to the newsletter. (For example, we just finally got a mobile version going, something we should have done two years ago). While we keep the site updated, the look and usability if more 1997 (when we launched) then 2011. We can’t do a really great job at both the site and newsletter with present staffing, and the site is our flagship.

This left me with two options:

1. I could radically reduce the scope of the newsletter and quit writing my parts so I can work on the revitalization of Access Vegas. You can get generic Vegas news from a million places now (if you have a zillion hours of free time on your hands each week to sift through it all). But, your feedback indicates that the key reasons you read are for my sections and because we distill down to all the important info. Or…

2. We can ask everyone to pitch in a couple of lousy dollars per month and not only continue what we do, but expand on it with special “members only” features we’d like to add over the course of the next year. We’d like to better address many of the common questions you have (which takes research time).áWe have a killer idea for a specialized app that will save you tons while you are in town. It will be free to paid subscribers. (If you aren’t an app type of person, you’ll have access to the information online in a members area so you can print it out and bring it along, or surf it on your phone or iPad).

We’ll also promise a personal response when a paid subscriber writes us with a Vegas question, which we don’t have the staff to do now (especially on stuff that has to be researched). We have the connections to get the right answers on stuff we don’t know off the top of our head. But not always the time to do so.

Hence, we’re going with option #2. We love helping you guys out. We just need a little help from you to do it properly.

Thanks in advance for your support!

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

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

 

 

 

 

 

 

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 16, 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! Hopefully everyone’s mood is rebounding from tax day (US) on April 15. For those of you getting a refund, it is still a pain to file. For those like me who cut quarterly checks… let’s just say that an overhaul of the tax system sounds good to me. But on to Las Vegas…

Media Queen Rachael Ray of Food Network fame was in town this past week filming for her Rachael’s Vacation show. Food Network hit Las Vegas at OriginIndia Restaurant and Bar on Paradise Road. Rachael Ray stopped by to film her new show “Rachael’s Vacation”. Owners Raja Majid and Alena Olevic were pleasantly surprised to meet the hostess and were greeted by Mrs. Ray with huge smiles and hand shakes.

Every few minutes there were bursts of laughter as Mrs. Ray charmed the staff. Rachael talked about Origin India’s prominence as a local favorite and the beautiful presentation of the food. Mrs. Olevic and Mr. Majid were thrilled that she enjoyed the OriginIndia experience. Click to read more and see extra event photos…


From left to right: Gopi (Tandoori Chef), Vivek (Sou Chef), Rachael Ray and Bhuwan Bhatt (Executive Chef) posed for a photo after the shoot in the OriginIndia kitchen

One of the more common questions we get is “When will a movie or TV show be filming in Las Vegas… I want to see it.“ We probably answer this here in the newsletter a couple times each year and the answer is always the same: Rarely will a production let the public know about a shoot, and only when it is a scene or event that actually needs a crowd scene. For the most part, they don’t want the crowds and security hassles.

The best way to see a celeb while in town? Simply keep your eyes open! I saw Flavor Flav playing craps at the South Point a couple of weeks ago. I’ve previously noted playing craps next to Matt Sorum of Guns n’ Roses at Hard Rock. I happened to be getting something to eat at The Klondike and they started shooting Vegas Vacation.

I’ve seen more than a few movies and music videos (not to mention car commercials and similar) being shot downtown over the years. All of this just at random. Nothing I had been tipped off to or had any kind of VIP invite.

A few huge-name star use the back hallways and stay out of sight. However, plenty of pretty well-known names will just be gambling or eating or doing all the normal activities you do here with just a couple of friends. Looking and acting like normal people. So much that you might walk right by them and not recognize them unless you are keeping your eyes open!

National radio hosts Sean Hannity and Mark Levin are teaming up with country music legend Lee Greenwood for the 2008 Freedom Concert at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, May 3, 2008 at 8 p.m. This show benefits the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund which provides additional support to the children of America’s military heroes who have been killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. Tickets are $35 and $25 and can be purchased at 702-284-7777.

P.S. If you dislike these radio hosts, hold the hate mail. We tell people about Las Vegas events and always put charitable events front and center regardless of cause (and including gay-friendly HIV/AIDS benefits in the past). In my nine years of doing this, you’d be hard pressed to guess my politics. This is about Vegas!

Binion’s new owners are bringing back the right, proper, and real rules for table games! The new owner TLC Casino Enterprises has changed the house rules for blackjack and craps. Blackjack now pays 3 to 2 on double deck and shoe games, and bettors can wager 10 times odds on craps with a $5.00 minimum bet. Limits also have been raised for most of the blackjack games.

Funny… a few years ago these rules were the norm. However, most casinos figured you were all stupid and reduced pay on a blackjack and lowered odds on craps. Now we just need to see the return of the famous Binion’s $2 (or $3 or $4 depending on the year) full steak dinner special and all will be right with the world!

After either years at The Mirage, Danny Gans will follow Steve Wynn up the street and be the new headliner at Wynn Las Vegas’ Encore. You can’t argue with the long-running success of a show like that. Danny Gans Tickets

Spamalot prepares to end the show’s Las Vegas run in mid-July. If this was one of your “we should see that… it sounds like fun” shows, waste no more time in getting your tickets: Monty Python’s Spamalot Las Vegas Tickets. You can also read our review of Spamalot.

Oh… speaking of Binion’s… Make sure to scroll down and read gaming writer Victor H. Royer’s article “Poker’s Big Gun”s. What a great look at some of the history of Las Vegas’ (and poker’s) biggest and most famous names.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

On Saturday, April 26, the “Oprah” show travels to Las Vegas for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime visit with legendary superstars Cher and Tina Turner. The episode will tape at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and feature interviews and exclusive performances as these legends come together to pull out all the stops for a true Vegas spectacular. “The Oprah Winfrey Show: Oprah, Cher and Tina in Vegas” is scheduled to premiere Thursday, May 8, 2008 (check local listings). Select tickets are available to the general public by visiting Oprah.com and clicking on “Be on the Show.”

Valentina Comes From Russia With Love For ‘Crazy Girls’ – Valentina Smirnova’s nickname is “Valusha” and hails from the Baltic Sea. “Valusha” moved to Las Vegas via San Francisco as a performer in “Crazy Girls” (Tickets) at the Riviera. She has been performing in “Las Vegas’ Sexiest Topless Revue” for a year-and-a-half now. The 5′ 8″ tall dark-haired beauty is a native of Kaliningrad, Russia where her parents still live. She models and does commercials. She said, “I bought my first car after winning $5,000 in the 2003 Miss Russia California Pageant. My first love is to dance but I also like to travel, socialize, sing and I enjoy all four seasons of the year. I love change, adventure, enthusiasm, interacting in large groups as opposed to one-on-one situations and I am a chameleon who can transform my appearance and nature to suit the environment.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Vegas Gifts to Remember for Mom and Dad – Spend the special day by bringing your parents to Las Vegas! This Mother’s Day, why not go beyond flowers? For Father’s Day, does dad really need another tie? Instead, surprise them with these indulgent spa experiences:

  • Show dad how much he’s appreciated with a Father’s Refresher at Spa Bellagio, a rejuvenating service featuring a custom massage and men’s facial. At Spa Monte Carlo, the Men’s Warrior Facial is packed with vitamins to reduce wrinkles while The Art of Shaving at Mandalay Place offers a Barber Spa for the ideal shave.
  • Treat mom to a relaxing Mother’s Makeover at Spa Bellagio, which includes an aromatherapy massage, full-body exfoliation, nourishing wrap and custom facial. At WET — The Spa and Salon at TI, the Youth Renewal Stone Facial uses warm and cool stones to ease tension and produce a youthful glow while the Sweet Red Rose Facial at The Spa at The Mirage uses hand-picked rose petals to leave skin velvety soft.

“Sugar” Shane Mosley & Zab “Super” Judah Go To War In Intriguing Welterweight Showdown Saturday, May 31 At Mandalay Bay Live On HBO Pay-Per-View – With everything riding on the line, the stakes will be high when “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Zab “Super” Judah square off in a welterweight showdown Saturday, May 31 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. (Tickets) Mosley vs. Judah: “High Stakes,” headlines a night of world-class professional boxing presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Rockstar Energy Drink, Tecate Beer, Affliction Clothing and Southwest Airlines. The 12-round bout will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. EST/6 p.m. PST. Click to Read The Full Story …

Fun in the Sun, Las Vegas Style – The heat of summer is almost here, but the pools of MGM MIRAGE are a sure bet for a cool escape. Dip into these latest ways to make a splash in Las Vegas:

  • Daylife is born this April as MGM Grand unveils WET REPUBLIC, an alluring 53,000-square-foot ultra pool combining an exclusive nightlife vibe with poolside pampering and relaxation. An adults-only mecca for discerning partygoers, the glitterati and celebrities, WET REPUBLIC will feature distinct experiences within a series of intimate spaces and will redefine poolside entertainment as the first ultra pool in the world’s sexiest city. Elite VIP service, high-end amenities and renowned entertainers will be the standard at WET REPUBLIC.
  • Already a crowd favorite, Mandalay Bay Beach at Mandalay Bay now features the only climate-controlled poolside gaming on The Strip. Nearby, Moorea Beach Club continues to draw sunseekers by providing high-energy music in a luxurious setting.
  • A paradise fit for royalty, The Excalibur pool has doubled its size — adding two luxurious pools and 17 cabanas stocked with all the essentials to keep cool. Just steps away, Drenched offers the latest in causal poolside dining.
  • In just a year, Bare at The Mirage has made a big splash. The adult pool, known best for its European-style sun bathing and exclusive VIP service, has quickly become a must visit for celebrities ranging from Fergie to Leonardo DiCaprio. New for 2008, Bare features a delectable menu by California Pizza Kitchen.

Gambling Talk: Poker’s Big Guns – with Victor H. Royer. It was a Tuesday in October 1974. The place was the Horseshoe Club in downtown Las Vegas, in its heyday. The Horseshoe Club’s founder and owner, Benny Binion, was playing World Poker Champion Johnny Moss heads up in a pot limit five-card stud game. Benny Binion was one of the now legendary “Texas Bad Men of Poker.” He had run gambling games in Texas for some time, and had gotten into some hot water after, reportedly, killing some men with whom he had had dealings and who didn’t live up to Benny’s expectations (to put it mildly).

So, Benny headed west for Las Vegas, where gambling was legal and there were no such bothersome things like extradition treaties between the states for insignificant little things, like killin’ a weasely gamblin’ cheater. Click to Read Complete Article…

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Note from Ted: This was a great personal story sent in by our readers. I’ve been looking for the time and place to run it. Spring is in the air and we actually have a “slow news week” (very rare). Enjoy this great retrospective!

We realize this won’t serve as a review for those looking to book a wedding, but its a story for those of us, who love the “new” Vegas, but enjoy remembering the “old” Vegas.

…Remembering our wedding and the Stardust

Here’s my Vegas wedding story…My fiance and I had been together for 8 years and were talking marriage. I had recently received a small settlement and decided after paying bills I would put a little aside for a vacation getaway. I woke up in the middle of the night, and it hit me…”What the hell, lets go to Vegas and get married.” The very next day I called my sister (she’s a Vegas NUT and has been going to Vegas for years) and needless to say she was ecstatic and we immediately started internet shopping for the perfect chapel for us. I needed inexpensive, simple, and quaint.

After an exhaustive search, we decided on the beloved Starlight Chapel at the Stardust Hotel and Casino. Because I’m 50 years old I was feeling a bit nostalgic with my choice. And what a wonderful choice it was. We booked the chapel that day and the very next day, a sweet young lady named Heather called me with all of the information and any extras we wanted. We booked a limousine for the 6 of us (myself and my fiance, my sister and her girlfriend, and my brother-in-law and his wife) to take us from Excalibur where we stayed to the Stardust to get married. Had I known that a year later, the Stardust would no longer be there…I would have booked our rooms there as well.

Before I go any further, I should tell you it was NOW that I told my boyfriend that we were going to Vegas to get married. It was my sister and I who had made all of the arrangements; but he was very happy.

We arrived for my first trip to Vegas on January 29, 2006 and on January 30, 2006, at 10 am we were married by John A. Williams at the Stardust. He was a wonderful minister (originally from our state, Ohio) and I certainly hope another chapel discovered him after the Stardust closed. Everything at the Starlight Chapel was adorable, the ceremony was wonderful, and everyone had a great time. I felt a lot of love in the chapel that day. Of course, then it was back to the Limo and off to party!!

To close, I’ll say this. I know change is a good thing but there are times when you just wish things could stay the same. Las Vegas should have built a glass box around the Stardust and preserved that landmark forever. I can only pray that our cherished memories of our special day at the Stardust lasts as long as the Las Vegas strip was blessed with the existence of the Stardust. It certainly made my first trip to Vegas my best vacation ever!

Just a footnote to this story… I’ve been back to Vegas 4 times and heading back for my fifth visit in April 2008. For anyone who has yet to visit your wonderful city, I leave you with this warning! Las Vegas gets in your blood so be prepared…and enjoy it. It’s a wonderful place!!

THANK YOU STARDUST!!

Sheila and Troy Adelsberger
West Jefferson, Ohio

Hi — we are hosting a government conference at the Embassy Suites (near the convention center) the week of 2 June. We would really like to use some of the pictures from your web site in our free attendee handout. May we have your permission to use the pictures? Thank you.

Don Houpt

Ted Responds:

Happy to help! As you can imagine, we have a little bit of fine print but nothing out-of-the-ordinary. (Note — This applies to everyone, not just Don):

We own a great many photos on our site, but not all of them. (Some are PR photos). Here is our policy:

1. Visit our Webshots gallery at http://community.webshots.com/user/AccessVegas

We own almost all photos from all albums with the EXCEPTION of:
Tony n Tina’s Wedding
Las Vegas Computer Wallpaper
Maverick Helicopter Tours

2. Send us the URL’s of photo(s) you wish to use.

3. We will confirm our ownership and send you the clean copy along with the required photo credit text required to accompany the photos.

So… whether you just need a photo for your Myspace, hobby site, or need some of our great photos for a major venture, please do ask first so we can affirm details. Contact us at the email listed below!

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:

  • 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 16, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 1, 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: Legends In Concert

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

 

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FEATURE STORY: Legends In Concert

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

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

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

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

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

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

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

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

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

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.

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!

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

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

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

FREE CONTESTS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
November 1, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 3, 1999

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Free Las Vegas Newsletter

Archived Edition:
News, reviews, and advertising offers are current at time of publication.
Updated Las Vegas Information: Click Here

June 3, 1999

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

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

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This Issue:ááá Megabucks Hits! plus piles of current Las Vegas information

Curious about a buffet, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun but you just haven’t gone out of your way to try yet? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com


 

MEGABUCKS

 

MOB LAWYER FOR MAYOR

 

LAS VEGAS AIRLINE UP AND FLYING!

 

National Airlines website is at http://www.nationalairlines.com

COMDEX

 

You can also secure your rental cars early and save through http://www.accessvegas.com

SUMMER IS HERE – With the temperatures generally climbing (Memorial Day weekend saw highs close to 100 and lows in the mid-60’s), we can’t stress enough the importance of drinking plenty of water while out there. Because of the very low humidity, you perspire greatly but don’t realize it because it evaporates off of your body immediately. Drinking booze dehydrates you further. Either way, we suggest stopping by the hotel bars on a regular basis and grabbing a bottled water. Your body will thank you, your stamina will by higher, and you’ll enjoy your vacation a lot more. For those of you that live in Las Vegas, or stay for extended periods of time, you may with to check out Water and Ice at
http://www.waterandicelv.com Unlike those unregulated machines that bake in the sun, Water and Ice is a Grade A, regulated establishment.

PRIME TIME LAS VEGAS TV SHOW – The UPN Network (also seen on most cable systems on WGN out of Chicago) has bought 13 weeks of a new TV show called “The Strip”. It will shoot in Las Vegas, and the basic premise will be 2 ex-Metro police officers working as security for the Tropicana hotel and solving crimes, etc. Seems like they had a similar series like that here once …. something with the word VEGA$ in the name …. We wish the new series well and hope it give you all a great weekly shot of your favorite vacation destination.

HARD ROCK HOTEL EXPANSION

 

NEW AIRPORT

 

SAMS TOWN

 

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This newsletter is absolutely FREE. In addition, we dip into our own pocket for the cost of dining, attractions and other reviews to give you a 100% unbiased viewpoint (unlike the tourist magazines and other newsletters which are basically paid advertisements). If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us.

http://www.accessvegas.com offers you low prices for hotels and rental cars in LAS VEGAS and NATIONWIDE! It’s our sister site featuring secure online booking and INSTANT confirmation. Don’t spend hours on the phone. Book today the cheap, easy way and save!

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Your input is welcome. Don’t agree with something we said? Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Guest article submissions are also welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc. Have a request for a review? Boggled when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where all of the “articles” are really paid ads, we pull out our own wallet and give you the honest scoop.

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You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright 1999 Ted Newkirk
June 3, 1999