AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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Archive for June, 2008

June 29, 2008

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 25, 2008

June 29th 2008 Posted to Las Vegas Newsletter

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The ONLY July 4′th fireworks on The Strip appears to be at Mandalay Bay this year following a performance by the band Vertical Horizon at about 10:30 PM. Since they will occur over Mandalay Beach, best bet to see them is somewhere south of the hotel (down by the Welcome to Las Vegas sign). No word on displays from The Stratosphere or Hilton (who have traditionally done a show).

Bad Move. Whenever July 4 falls on a Friday or Saturday night, the LVCVA (Visitors Authority) should spend a couple hundred thousand shooting off fireworks from selected casinos (a la New Years Eve). Station Casinos is doing such with their own private money at a number of their local casinos just for locals. Go figure!

Fireworks will be happening all over most of the Las Vegas Valley (way out in those suburbs). My advice? There will be fireworks in Henderson (Southeast), Anthem (South) and a bunch in the Northeast part of town. If you are on a higher floor with a view in those directions, you should be able to see various displays between about 9 – 10:45 PM.

Elvis is close to getting a star on the Las Vegas Strip if the local Viva Las Vegas Club can finish raising the needed cash. (The stars themselves or their fan clubs must fund the placement). They are only $2000 short according to local columnist Norm Clarke. More info on the effort and how to contribute at http://www.astarforelvis.com

We found some great photos from a couple of months ago that never made it up. If you are between Las Vegas visits (and a little longer between visits than you’d like to be because of the U.S. economy or you simply can’t make it here soon), these should help keep you going!

Las Vegas Strip including Wynn Las Vegas construction, the site of Frontier implosion (future Echelon Place, construction on the Mirage volcano and some surprises:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

We’ve also added new photos to our Stratosphere Tower Las Vegas section:

Wynn Las Vegas plus Encore

Click on both of the above photos to enjoy their respective photo sets. We have some amazing brand new photos coming over the next few weeks!

Southwest Airlines is bucking the trend by maintaining their level of service to Las Vegas! They are bucking the trend of airline service cuts (especially to tourist markets) and will continue their strong presence here. Because they are profitable, Southwest has a history of picking up the ball when other airlines have to cut service. This is great news U.S. residents who are missing Las Vegas! Keeping the level of air service here helps mute continued airfare increases.

Now if the casino bean counters would get their heads out of their hindquarters and realize that Las Vegas was built for decades on loose slots, cheap rooms and cold (frequent) beverage service. They think “tighter slots equal more revenue” when the reality is “tighter slots drive people away from playing.”

Speaking of… I think one of our readers got a letter to the editor of our local paper published. Mary Huber of Archibold, Ohio wrote the letter Soaking Tourists (click the link and scroll down to that letter).

The MTV awards are headed back to Los Angeles after playing The Palms last year (the show that an infamously pudgy and “out of it” Britney Spears opened, seemingly sinking what was left of her career). No word on why the move, although the awards have generally rotated between New York and Miami.

Tropicana is advertising “A Real Pool Party For Real People” with DJ’s, live entertainment, dancing, and food/drink specials from Noon until 11 PM (evidently daily) at their pool. I’m guessing this is a pool event where you it is OK to NOT dress and act like the latest “in trouble” celebrity.

Jay Leno raised around $200,000 during his two benefit shows (mentioned last issue) for Iowa flood victims. ALL proceeds went to those affected as The Mirage donated the room. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to not just those in Iowa but all affected by these weeks of Midwest weather and flooding related disasters.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To Your Favorite Event!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Dave Matthews Band, The Eagles, Tina Turner, Jonas Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, James Taylor, Kenny Chesney, Elton John, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, Rush, Chris Rock, 3 Doors Down, ColdPlay, Janet Jackson, Van Morrison, Carrie Underwood, Nine Inch Nails, Maroon 5, Trace Adkins, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Blue Man Group Las Vegas – A Show With No Rules

by Mark Marino

Before any performers take the stage at the Blue Man Group Theatre, there is a looming sense that this kind of show can go anywhere at anytime. Even the theater itself is shell of mystery waiting to come to life. After some mood lifting jokes grab the audiences’ attention, the pulse of the room is jolted with masterful live drums. The first real glimpse of the Blue Man Group in the spotlight brings the audience into their funky universe of light, humor and music. The front few rows might feel the drums raining in their laps as each hit triggers both a sound and a splash of bright colorful liquid. A theme of messy fun makes itself known here whenever possible.

The show is consistently funny, but there is a great wealth of entertainment in Blue Man’s grip of the unexpected. The Blue Men introduce their talent of weaving together rhythms of both music and comedy with lively finesse. It isn’t long into this show that the audience is bracing for the next act with equal parts laughter and exhilaration.

Click to Read Entire Blue Man Group Las Vegas Review…

Featured Review:
Gordie Brown – A Las Vegas Evening With A Lifetime Of Celebs

by Erika Bayer-Polak

If you are looking for a lively fast-paced show filled with music, comedy and impersonations, Gordie Brown is a sure bet for an enjoyable evening. And even though his show is at 10 p.m., he keeps his act rather clean by late show standards. Unless you are an austere puritan, walking away from this show offended is impossible.

Brown manages to seamlessly morph his solid voice to correspond to a wide variety of performers, from Chris Isaak to Roy Orbison, from Willie Nelson to Tracy Chapman, from M.C. Hammer to 4 Non Blondes. Brown also seems to make a point in impersonating performers who had their heydays in the 1950s to performers who are presently at the top of their game. Covering such an assortment of acts is certainly a sure way to appease all generations in the audience.

Click to Read Entire Gordie Brown Las Vegas Review…

The National Hockey League (NHL) Returns To Las Vegas As The Los Angeles Kings Face The Colorado Avalanche In “Frozen Fury XI” At MGM Grand Saturday, September 27 - The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Los Angeles Kings return to Las Vegas for “Frozen Fury XI” when they host an NHL pre-season game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Sept. 27 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. (Tickets) Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m. “Frozen Fury XI” plans to feature a line-up of NHL all-star players from both rosters including Kings players Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Jack Johnson. Avalanche all-stars scheduled to appear include Paul Stastny and Ryan Smyth. Click to Read The Full Story …

Criss Angel Believe – A New Show By Cirque du Soleil At Luxor – Tickets on sale for preview and regular performances of CRISS ANGEL Believe, the new Cirque du Soleil production set to open at Luxor Las Vegas. CRISS ANGEL Believe starring Criss Angel will open for preview performances September 1 and hold its Gala Premiere September 12, 2008. Criss Angel is recognized as one of the most provocative artists in the world today. In an attempt to pay homage to the late/great Harry Houdini, Criss chose “Believe” as the title for this unprecedented live experience. Click to Read The Full Story …

Unwind With An Unbelievable Happy Hour On The Patio At Dick’s Last Resort – The Strip’s Most Outrageous Outpost Offers Daily Happy Hour – As summer sets in and the temperature in Las Vegas heats up, The Strip’s wackiest watering hole, Dick’s Last Resort, celebrates the season with a spectacular new Happy Hour. From 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily, Dick’s invites guests to its Strip-side patio to enjoy all-you-can-drink Bud Light drafts for $20. Dick’s patio features a full-service bar, flat screen TVs and misters to keep cool while kicking back and catching all the action of the Las Vegas Strip. Famous for its deliciously messy cuisine, zany decor, rowdy wait staff, live music and let-loose atmosphere, Dick’s Last Resort provides a new level of fun in the city known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” Come get your kicks at Dick’s!

World Poker Tour® Returns To Bellagio For Bellagio Cup IV July 2-17 – The World Poker Tour® (WPT) kicks off Season VII next month when it returns to Bellagio July 2-17 for Bellagio Cup IV. The two-week event begins Wednesday, July 2 and consists of seven no limit hold ‘em tournaments ranging from $2,000-$5,000, along with seven, $1,500 super satellite no limit hold ‘em events. The WPT main event, which requires an entry fee of $15,000, begins Friday, July 11 with the final table scheduled for Thursday, July 17. The WPT main event champion will receive the first place prize money as well as a $25,000 seat in the April 2009 WPT World Championship at Bellagio. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $63, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $31, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $49, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

This section will return next issue. Because of new software installs that will bring major improvements to AccessVegas.com and our sister sites in the next few weeks, I’m running behind this week.

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 I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

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

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.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 25, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Comments Off

June 19, 2008

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 18, 2008

June 19th 2008 Posted to Las Vegas Newsletter

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We are revamping our newsletter site http://www.las-vegas-news-reviews.com into a blog-style format. We’ve been doing this newsletter (which pretty much amounts to a weekly blog) since 1999, long before the word blog or blog-style websites existed. For those of you who read this newsletter online, bear with us. The current blog format is very readable, but can (and will) be inproved over the next few weeks to match the look, style and readability of our online version.

This also allows users of RSS/XML feeds two options for following everything here at AccessVegas.com:

  • Only This Newsletter: http://www.las-vegas-news-reviews.com/feed/
  • Everything new on AccessVegas.com (show reviews, photos, new stories and features) as it happens:
    http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

An “Only In Nevada” Type of Gas Card Promotion – According to the Review-Journal, A brother in Beatty, NV (about 130 miles north of Las Vegas) is offering gas cards ranging from $50 to $100 depending on how much you spend. Although the long-standing myth is that prositiution is legal in Las Vegas, the reality is that it is not legal in any county of over 400,000 residents. This includes Clark County (Las Vegas) despite all of the “dancers” to your room handbills.

Since Clark County is roughly the size of New Jersey and Las Vegas is centrally located in the county, this means quite a drive for those who want to indulge in the “world’s oldest profession”.

My suggestion if you are going to drive a couple of hours from Las Vegas? Take in Dante’s View which overlooks much of Death Valley. (Just don’t do it in the summer). Google Maps Street view has a great 360 degree shot of Dante’s View.

Open Your Wallet For Nevada Education – Once upon a time (prior to 2000), families didn’t move to Las Vegas in droves. Families living here didn’t expect Nevada to rank high nationally when it came to education. In fact, I recal numerous business news stories in the 90’s noting the difficulty of recruiting family men to work here in Las Vegas.

Most people were employed in gaming (or tourism-related jobs) and gaming taxes did a fine job of helping fund education.

Oh… how times have changed. Over a million people (including many families) have flocked to live here since then and now expect our education system to be as good as it was in the high-tax states they fled from. And… they want to do it on your backs. Right out of the pocketbook of our visitors. Read more: Nevadans say let tourists pay – Support strong for raising hotel room tax from 10 percent to 13 percent

Las Vegas unelmployment rate is above the national average. I wouldn’t suggest moving here unless you have a job waiting for you. Ironically enough, it is the construction downturn playing a big roll. Fewer people moving here means less new home, condo, and apartment construction. Not trying to sound negative. This is a great place to visit, and a pretty cool place to live. If you have a job.

Jay Leno’s Las Vegas shows next week will benefit Iowa flood victims. Emmy Award-winning comedian and television host Jay Leno will perform two special engagements at The Mirage Wednesday, June 25 and Friday, June 27 at 10 p.m. with proceeds going to The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Tickets are priced at $90 plus tax and are available at The Mirage box office or call (702) 792-7777.

My dad was born in Iowa where the family ran a service station in Dubuque before relocating to Santa Monica, CA in his youth so I have some ties to the state. It is absolutely heartbreaking to see the flooding and our hearts and prayers go out to all affected.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

Madonna, American Idols Live, Elton John, Jonas Brothers, Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett, Dave Matthews Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Kenny Chesney, ColdPlay, James Taylor, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, The Cure, Rush, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events

Featured Review:
Experience The Spice Of Life at “V The Ultimate Variety Show”

by Erin Guernsey

The old saying “variety is the spice of life” rings true at “V The Ultimate Variety Show.” Audience members are privy to witness an assortment of talented artists as they perform individualized specialty acts at the V Theatre inside the Miracle Mile Shops at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

The show opens with the flamboyantly-funny host. This man strings together the various specialty acts with his amusing sense of humor. As the show progresses the audience learns that he is more than just a host. He is an accomplished performer who possesses excellent juggling skills. His skills range from juggling batons in the air, to hats on his head and even ping-pong balls in his mouth.

Click to Read Entire V Variety Show Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…

Featured Review:
Crazy Girls Keeps It Simple, Yet Sensual and Captivating

by Guy Chapman

For over twenty years now, “Crazy Girls” has just been one of those Las Vegas mainstays. From its iconic bronze statue in front of the Riviera that tourists rub for good luck, to the ads that one can’t help but see when traveling The Strip, it’s easy to see why, once stepping into the fun-filled and sexy world of “Crazy Girls”.

The closest comparison to defining “Crazy Girls” is similar to what people would expect a classic “Golden Age” Las Vegas show to be. The girls perform a variety of acts that are playful and cheeky to sensual and alluring, set to music from the classic burlesque age to more modern songs. “Crazy Girls” keeps it simple, yet captivating, and for regular show-goers on The Strip, it makes for an experience that isn’t going to be found just anywhere else.

Click to Read Entire Crazy Girls Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…

Celebrate The 4th Of July With Vertical Horizon And Mix 94.1 At Mandalay Bay Beach – Evening Highlighted By A Fireworks Extravaganza – Celebrate the 4th of July at Mandalay Bay Beach with Vertical Horizon and MIX 94.1-FM. A pre-concert barbeque at Border Grill will begin at 6 p.m.; the concert is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. and will be followed by a fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. The barbeque at Border Grill will be available for an additional charge and will include great food, drink specials and prize giveaways. The show will be presented by MIX 94.1-FM and Mandalay Bay and the tickets are priced at $35, not including applicable taxes and service charges. Click to Read The Full Story …

New Female Lead Singer, Felice Garcia, Takes The Stage In The Folies Bergere At The Tropicana – Felice Garcia joins the cast of the legendary Folies Bergere (Tickets) as the new principal female singer at the Tropicana Resort & Casino. Felice is very familiar with the stage, performing since the young age of nine in talent shows, musicals, plays, pageants, civic events and other miscellaneous functions. This is her first big production show and is very excited to become part of the Folies Bergere family. “It was my dream as a child to be part of a well-known stage production like the Folies Bergere,” says Felice. “What better place to get my start in show business than in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Toby Keith Brings His “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008″ To Mandalay Bay Saturday, July 26 With Special Guest Montgomery Gentry – Tour also will Feature 2008’s Hottest New Country Talent Including Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir. Toby Keith, a multi-platinum country music superstar, will bring his “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008″ sponsored by Ford F-Series, to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 26. (Tickets) Academy of Country Music award-winner Montgomery Gentry, as well as Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir, will open the show at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

First Lucky Winner At Sahara Hotel & Casino Wins Instant Upgrade To “Elvis” Penthouse Suite – Thomas Bagshaw was selected as the first winner of the Sahara Hotel & Casino’s Instant Upgrade promotion. Mr. Bagshaw, who had booked a standard room, was informed at check-in that he had been upgraded to the fabulous Presidential Suite, formerly inhabited by Elvis Presley during the filming of the classic film, “Viva Las Vegas.” Mr. Bagshaw hails from Gact, California. During the months of May through August, the legendary Sahara is offering the opportunity for hotel guests to win an instant upgrade to one of the Sahara’s most requested and famous classic penthouse suites – The Beatles Suite, where the Fab Four stayed in 1964 or The Presidential Suite, which has hosted such luminaries as The King himself, Elvis Presley. Click to Read The Full Story …

Pop Music Icon Janet Jackson To Bring Her “Rock Witchu Tour” To Mandalay Bay Friday, September 19 – Pop music icon Janet Jackson returns to the touring circuit for the first time in seven years when she kicks off her “Rock Witchu Tour” September 10 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour will land at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Sept. 19 and the concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. (Tickets) The tour will feature the hit songs and innovative dance routines that have made Jackson one of the most celebrated artists in history. She has undeniably influenced pop culture with more than 100 million albums sold as well as countless hit singles, awards and accolades. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

    ·
  • 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 features 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.

“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” And Netflix Join Forces To Find Contestants In Las Vegas – Channel 13 Welcomes “Millionaire” Producers for Contestant Auditions Wednesday, June 25 at Cannery Casino & Hotel in North Las Vegas, NV. “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” hosted by Emmy Award-winning host Meredith Vieira, and Netflix, the company that makes movie enjoyment easy, will join forces on Wednesday, June 25 in the Las Vegas, Nevada area to find contestants for the fourth installment of “Netflix Million Dollar Movie Week,” a specialty show which will feature movie-themed questions. Auditioners will also be given the opportunity to try out for a regular episode of the hit game show’s upcoming seventh season. Click to Read The Full Story …

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

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $59, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $36, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $48, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

HI Ted,

I recently visited Vegas for 4 days and enjoyed it BUT the tables and slots are getting very, very difficult to win at. It is once in a blue moon that you win anything. I thoroughly enjoy Vegas and always have. I have probably made at least 15-20 trips there. Due to the “tightness” I’ll probably look elsewhere from here on in. 

The last few trips I keep telling myself that things will get better but they actually got worse. I’ll miss everything else about Vegas but when I gamble I need to win every once in awhile.

Thanks for the newsletter I enjoy that as well.

Christopher Kujawa

Ted Responds:

You aren’t the only one. Gaming win keep dropping despite pretty steady visitorship. Those with no clue blame it on the economy here in the U.S. but the rest of us know better:

Table game rules are worse and slots seem tighter. You used to be able to put $20 in a machine and know you’d get some decent play. Now you might as well set the $20 bill on fire. Why even bother? Your money is better spent at a top-end show, one of the many area tours (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam… even a Mob Tour), or blowing it on a fine meal. At least you are getting some bang-for-your-buck.

Side Note: If gambling, do it downtown. The table game rules tend to be more favorible to the player and the slots seem to be looser (from the many reports that we get). Plus, they are much more thankful for your patronage.

Thanks for the input and thanks for reading. Please do tell your Vegas visiting friends about the newsletter!

My husband and I jst returned from Vegas. We had the the best time at the Cher concert. What a lovely lady she is and her show was worth the trip. I love Vegas! Keep up the good job you do on your newsletter. I read it everytime.

Thank You,

Kay

We are looking to get married in our fave place Vegas in may of 2009. We wanted to do it at The Nugget downtown as it has a large special meaning to us. No Elvis or married by Martians. Just a simple ceremony with a few close friends. Any do’s, dont’s or any other thoughts?

We both went through the big Circus wedding and now after finding each other (the mate we dreamed of) we just want something simple and nice. Any thoughts would be helpful!

Tim and Mary

Ted Responds:

Tim and Mary,

Contrats and a couple of thoughts:

I don’t believe that the GN has a wedding chapel. However, an overlooked way of doing a wedding is to rent one of the nicest suites (the kind with more than one room, a great view and similar) and have the wedding there. one can do this regardless of hotel.

The downside is having to do a little bit of legwork to arrange the minister, cake, and similar but a web search can go a long way there.

Also, much can probably be catered by the hotel. You may wish to call the hotel, tell them your thoughts, and ask what they can do (and the cost).

If you even want to keep things more simple, ask about the possibility of doing the ceremony by the pool, in a lounge (before it is open for the evening) or even on the casino floor. I know of a popular Los Angeles TV personality who got married at the craps tables at Caesars a couple of years ago!

If you want a bunch of random well-wishers, you can even get married on Fremont Street in front of the hotel.

Bottom Line: Provided you are staying at said hotel, call ahead and tell them you want to get married at the hotel and make it clear you want to talk to someone who handles group events at the hotel (or at least someone in catering). That person is best suited to work with 

Hope this helps and please let us know your progress!

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 I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

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

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.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 18, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Comments Off

June 11, 2008

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 11, 2008

June 11th 2008 Posted to Las Vegas News

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

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

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

Ditch Friday Pool Party Palms Las Vegas

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

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

LA Sunset Tan Bikini Show

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

by Lincoln Hudson

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

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

Click to Read Entire Jubilee! Las Vegas Review…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

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

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

Thanks,

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

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

In general, a couple of notes on coupons:

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

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

Hope this helps,

Hi Ted,

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

By for now,

John & Jean (Manchester)

Ted Responds:

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

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

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

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

Thank You,

Kay

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

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

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

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

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

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

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