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Archive for January, 2010

January 27, 2010

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 27, 2010

January 27th 2010 Posted to Uncategorized

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
Seasonal Vegas Information
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

We had one more day of rain to get rid of this past week, but we’ll looking at weather in the 60’s F and mostly sunny (pretty much average for this time of year) for the next couple of weeks. Not too shabby compared to the rain and snow blanketing large parts the Northwest and Southeast United States as this goes out. Stay warm and dry. Or… hop a plane our way!

Super And The Saints – If hitting Vegas for the Superbowl, St. Valentines Day or St. Patrick’s Day sounds like fun, check out the event links in the Quick Info Menu (directly above this column). You may wish to check back to each link often as information for Superbowl and Valentines Day pours in almost daily.

Fontainebleau Is Sold – Financier Carl Icon looks like the winning bid for the unfinished Fontainebleau (the big, tall, blue building between The Riviera and Sahara). Before you make plans to attend the gala grand opening, hold your horses. Estimates to finish the nearly 4000 room property start at well over a billion dollars. That simply isn’t economically feasible right now. While the shell of the building is done, the floors remain unfinished.

What we’d like to see? Get the casino, restaurants, and bars open. At least space that fronts The Strip. Get some life in the place and a few bucks rolling in. Then as the economy improves, start to build out a few hotel floors at a time from the cash flow. We’ll keep you posted.

Unhappiest State? – A recent poll ranked Nevada the 39′th least happy state in the union. At first, I figured they must have interviewed a known Las Vegas blogger who hates living here (yes, one really exists). But the survey was actually based on “… research suggest(ing) U.S. states with wealthier, better educated and more tolerant residents are also happier on average. The reasoning is that wealthy states can provide infrastructure and so it’s easier for residents to get their needs met. In addition, states with a greater proportion of artists and gays would also be places where residents can freely express themselves.

I found that interesting because Las Vegas’ “live and let live” attitude is pretty gay friendly and the arts scene has been developing the past few years (although no one will mistake us for New York City). The other weird thing? We must have gotten dinged on the education front (most residents have a lower-than-average level of education) and the recession has taken a toll on median income. Hey… I’m happy here no matter what the poll says.

What Will A Dollar Buy? – We get regular emails bemoaning how Las Vegas is so much more expensive than it was 20 and 30 years ago. However… one sometimes forgets to index things for inflation. This is a TV capture from a 1976 TV show and although fictional, it drove me to look a couple things up. It takes 3.5 times as many dollars to buy the same thing as it did 30 years ago. 1.8 times what it did 20 years ago. So for you long-time visitors remembering the $25 show you saw 30 years ago, keep in mind it is the equivalent of an $80 show today (and many of today’s Las Vegas shows are far more spectacular). Puts it in perspective!

Aladdin Cards Winner – Doug Tao of California was one of 15 people who wrote in with the correct answer to our photo contest (see January 6 issue). He wrote:

The photo is where Binion’s Horseshoe displayed their $1 Million. Binion’s Hotel (now closed) used to be the Mint.

Now, somewhere in my old junk is a deck of cards from the Mint…

Hope I’m right,

Doug Tao

Well Doug, now you have a deck of Aladdin cards to join the Mint cards!

Probably the most interesting entry was this one:

That looks like the area of the Horseshoe (now called Binion’s) where about 40 years ago, I had my picture taken next to a million dollars. I was 17 years old and the picture would not be ready until a day or 2. I made my father take me there to pick up my picture before going to the airport to go home. It’s a good thing we didn’t miss our flight! I still have my picture.

Linda from Bergenfield, NJ

Fighting Cancer? – When you think of the American Cancer Society, you probably think of a group looking for a cure for cancer, and educating the public on how to reduce cancer risk. So why are they suing the state of Nevada? Our smoking ban was amended to allow smoking at tobacco conventions. Normally, convention rooms and ballrooms are non-smoking (due to our smoking ban). The change in the law now allows smoking in an enclosed convention space specifically and only during tobacco retailer shows.

We’re not talking about day care or restaurants or other situations where the smoke can drift into the public realm. The law simply and specifically exempts invite-only conventions of tobacco retailers.

Think of all the donation money being spent on lawyers for this crazy suit. Money that could be used to help continue to find cures and treatment for cancer. Think about that the next time the American Caner Society asks for your donation. With smoking on the rise for the first time in ages (despite smoking bans), perhaps it is time to spend more on youth education and less on lawyers and private bans. Speaking of…

Goodman Bows Out Of Governors Race – After taking the steps needed to run and showing all indications that he would, Mayor Oscar Goodman has announced that he will NOT be running for Governor of Nevada. He cited the laws dictating that the governor must live in Carson City (Nevada’s state capital) and that he doesn’t want a job that would keep him from waking up next to his wife each day. His wife is very involved in Las Vegas business, society, and charities. And… may run for mayor herself. Now, the reality is that the governor can pretty much spend all the time he wants in Las Vegas except during legislative sessions. And technology lets work get done from just about anywhere.

The most likely reason? A few days before his announcement came dire predictions of state revenue shortfalls over the next few years (not to mention the projection of Nevada losing 100,000 residents by 2015). Goodman is no stranger to rolling up his sleeves in politics, but no one is going to come out of this a winner. The legislative battles will be brutal. My suggestion? Upon his retirement, the new mayor and city council should officially bestow him the title Mayor Emeritus with a four-year commission to continue to be an ambassador for the city at events locally and worldwide.

When Do You Like To Visit? – Help us test our new poll software by telling us your favorite time of year to visit Las Vegas! Simply go to AAAVegas.com and look for the poll on the right sidebar. Results will be displayed in real time.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Blue Man Group Adds A Spin Of Excitement To A Special Las Vegas-Themed “Wheel of Fortune” – Blue Man Group joins Pat Sajack and Vanna White for a special Las Vegas-themed “Wheel of Fortune” show on Monday, Feb. 8 (check local listings). The one-of-a-kind blue-faced trio will be on hand to entertain the crowd, as well as hosts Sajack and White, giving the audience a look into the exciting and euphoric experience only found at Blue Man Group’s Venetian show.

John Mayer Brings “Battle Studies” Tour To Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, March 27 – Seven-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter/guitar player/producer John Mayer will perform at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, March 27. The concert, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature Mayer along with special guest Michael Franti & Spearhead.

Fiesta Like A Rockstar Under The Sombrero At Tacos And Tequila – T&T Introduces Spicy Weekend Fiesta Friday And Saturday Nights – Friday and Saturday nights at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) just got even hotter with the spiciest party under the sombrero. T&T’s Spicy Weekend Fiesta, hosted by the Sexy Elissa, is a delicious and exciting way to liven up the weekend with irresistible Mexican food, mouth-watering handmade cocktails, and of course, enough tequila shots to go around. For those that are over the “club scene,” but still want some extra pep in their weekend lineup, T&T’s Spicy Weekend Fiesta is on the mark.

Academy of Country Music, Dick Clark Productions & CBS Television Announce The 45th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards – Hosted By Reba McEntire to Be Broadcast Live From MGM Grand In Las Vegas Sunday, April 18 On CBS – Country Music’s Party of the Year, the 45th ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, honoring country music’s top talent and the industry’s hottest emerging talent, will be broadcast live Sunday, April 18 at 8 p.m. live EST/delayed PST on the CBS Television Network inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Academy also will tape an all-star concert special, ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn – The Last Rodeo, from the MGM Grand Garden Arena Monday, April 19 which will air at a later date on the CBS Television Network.

Legendary Comedian Don Rickles Returns To Orleans Showroom February 20-21 – The much-honored comedian will launch his 51st consecutive year as a Las Vegas headliner when he brings his one-of-a-kind humor to The Orleans Showroom February 20 and 21, marking his third consecutive year of performances at The Orleans Showroom. Rickles took his first step toward national fame in 1957 when Frank Sinatra wandered into the small Hollywood nightclub where Rickles was performing.

Rousing Musical Review Oh What A Night! Brings The Hits Of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons To The Suncoast Showroom February 27 and 28 – The extensive hit songbook of Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons comes to life in Oh What A Night! at the Suncoast Showroom, February 27 and 28. Oh What A Night!, written and directed by independent Motown producer and creative consultant George Solomon and award-winning producer and director Michael Chapman, is an exciting tribute show that takes audiences on a musical journey through the hits of the famed group that formed in 1960.

Embrace The Romance With S’Mooches, S’Mores And Snuggies At Rhumbar Celebrate With Rhumbar’s Delicious Valentine’s Day Cocktail – Snuggle up with your significant other this Valentine’s Day at RHUMBAR. Beginning Monday, Feb. 1, the stylish cocktail lounge inside The Mirage will introduce its delicious S’mooches and S’mores cocktail, while inviting couples to smooch and snuggle on the intimate patio under the warmth of a Snuggie. Guaranteed to melt your lover’s heart, “S’mooches, S’mores and Snuggies” will be ongoing throughout the month of February. In addition, for those that want to shower their lover with adoration, a promotional package is available for purchase, which includes a RHUMBAR embroidered Snuggie and a signature S’moches and S’mores cocktail for $35.

Former Mobster Frank Cullotta Presents Mob Chronicles At The Stratosphere – One-Time Charity Event To Benefit Opportunity Village – Former Las Vegas mobster and hit man Frank Cullotta will present the Mob Chronicles in the Stratosphere Theater of the Stars on Thursday, February 18th at 7:30 p.m. This one-time charity event will benefit Opportunity Village. After eight years of prison and 20 years of witness protection, Cullotta is going public with his speaking tour, Mob Chronicles, about the history of organized crime and his unique insights into the mob life. Joining him will be various members of law enforcement who worked for years in attempts to indict Cullotta.

Tito Ortiz’s Punishment MMA Store To Celebrate One Year Anniversary At Hooters Casino With Autograph Session – On Friday, February 5th, Tito Ortiz, Jenna Jameson, Punishment Athletic and TapouT will celebrate the one year anniversary of the Punishment MMA Store located in Hooters Hotel & Casino. When you hear the name Tito Ortiz, you may think of the words “Huntington Beach Bad Boy” or you may think of his hip and trendy Punishment MMA clothing store at Hooters Casino Hotel. If you are thinking of the later, you may find it hard to believe that Friday, February 5th marks the One Year Anniversary of Ortiz’s Punishment MMA Store.

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Bus Of The StarsLas Vegas Double-Decker Bus of the Stars – Hop onboard with your favorite celebrities and tour the world-famous Las Vegas Strip! This one-of-a-kind tour takes place on an original London double-decker bus and every sightseeing show is varied, ensuring a unique experience every time!

Highlights: * Choice of several departures throughout the day * Choice of seating available * Receive discounts at selected restaurants, shops and attractions * Pick-up from a centrally located meeting point

Click To Book Las Vegas Double-Decker
Bus Of The Stars Now!

Las Vegas Deals

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Your newsletter continues to impress, keep it up, your the best.

Got back two weeks ago from my 18th Vegas visit and before I went I planned my daily schedule and I have to pass on recommendations to your readers about off strip casino-hotels. Along the Boulder Strip – Boulder Station & Arizona Charlies’ are wonderful stops and within walking distance of each other. Very friendly laid back places.

Another 20 mins slow walk and Sam’s Town is a total delight, I could’ve spent all day in there with a huge western store “Sheplers” too, but the jewel to me of the ‘Alternate Strip’ has to be The Eastside Cannery. The place looks futuristic in day time and amazing at night with it’s exterior lighting show. Very friendly inside plus loose slots and high quality cheap meal places. I’d rate this a 6 star Vegas resort above the mega resorts (i.e. Bellagio, Venetian etc.) for customer service and friendliness. Easily reached from downtown on the 107 bus route.

Last recommendation is ‘Longhorn Casino’, a true local’s casino with amazing meal-deals too ($4.25 steak and fries) and very loose slots (ended up in profit on the day thanx to Longhorn).

Next visit will probably be October 2010 and the ‘Alternate Strip’ will be my first stop.

Owen from South Shields, England

Ted Responds:

Great suggestions. I used to live out that way and enjoyed visiting all the places you mentioned! Plus… those locals casinos tend to have the best gaming odds year-after-year. You can’t screw the locals and drain their wallets or you lose your customers, and all of those properties in close proximity have to compete for a set local audience.

For the first (and second and third) time visitor, obviously The Strip and downtown have plenty to do and see. However, seeing the “Boulder Strip” combined with visiting Hoover Dam is a great 3/4 day activity (start after brunch) to rent a car for. You can visit Boulder Station, Arizona Charlies East (much newer and nicer than the one on the west side of town), Sam’s Town, Cannery, Lake Las Vegas, take a scenic drive along Lake Mead and end up at Hoover Dam. I’ve Google Mapped it here:

Boulder Strip, Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam Day Trip

Hint: Returning from Hoover Dam is much, much quicker. Head back toward Las Vegas from Hoover Dam on the highway that crosses Hoover Dam. (Don’t turn back off to the Lake Mead scenic drive). It will eventually turn into a freeway. In Henderson, get on to the Beltway (I-215) headed west until you reach Las Vegas Blvd. (The Strip).

If you want someone else to do the diving, we have a number of great Hoover Dam tours available on our Hoover Dam Tours page.

I live in Las Vegas and love your newsletter. Recently my 13 year old grandson came to visit. We were looking for inexpensive things to do with him, and happened upon the Las Vegas Speedway. Because it was not a race day, we were able to drive right up close and park by the fence right outside the speedway.

We walked over to what is normally the pit area. They were offering ride alongs but because we didn’t want to spend any money, we just watched. It was really fun to watch the race cars go around, and my grandson really liked it. Just thought I’d pass this along.

Thanks,

Marlie

Ted Responds:

You know… I never even thought of that (and I’m a NASCAR fan). I’ll suggest people check ahead to find out the times of day they do the ride alongs, but what a great way to see action at the track without fighting the crowds!

I plan to be in Vegas and we are staying at the Flamingo, but we would like to visit the new M. Which is the best or cheapest way to get there.

Bob Mangan

Ted Responds:

Visiting the M Resort is turning into a popular activity as people find out how really nice the place while maintaining that locals casino friendliness. We covered the free shuttle in our July 24, 2009 issue (second letter in Members Mania section).

Just come back from Vegas had a great time as usual. Stayed in the Excalibur and everyone there was friendly and the food was fab.

Gillian

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:

  • Super Bowl Sunday February 7
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 15-17 (3 day weekend)

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

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

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

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

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All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

January 27, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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January 20, 2010

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 20, 2010

January 20th 2010 Posted to Las Vegas Newsletter

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
Seasonal Vegas Information
  • Superbowl Events
  • Valentine’s Day Events
  • Mardi Gras Events
  • St. Patrick’s Day Events
  • March Madness Events
  • Spring Break Events
  • Cinco de Mayo Events
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

If it seems like it’s been a while since the last issue, it has! We had a scheduled week off the second week of January and this past week fought internet outages that our provider blamed on the rain.

Yes, I said rain. Lots of rain. Pacific Northwest type rain and clouds for the past entire week. These are the same storm systems that have been slamming California and Arizona. The last time I remember this kind of persistent cloudy, rainy weather was about five years ago. This coming week will bring clearing but still unfortunately cool temps topping out only in the mid-to-upper 50’s F.

Barry Manilow Debuts New Album Live From Paris Las Vegas – Manilow has moved from the Las Vegas Hilton and is prepping for his run at Paris Las Vegas. He will be on QVC at 6 PM Pacific January 29 to perform some of his new music. Although the rumored start of his run was for Valentines Day, the actual first performance will be March 5. Click for Barry Manilow In Las Vegas Tickets

Speaking Of Valentines Day – We’ll have news and events about Valentine’s Day 2010 in Las Vegas starting next issue. However… it isn’t that far off. With the incredible low room rates right now, how can you not afford take your special someone here for the special day! Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations for great deals and current Las Vegas promotions.

World Renowned Pianist Danny Wright – now has a permanent home at Bar Moderno located inside the new Aria Las Vegas. He tinkles the ivories Wed. – Sun. starting at 7 PM. To find out if he’s your cup of tea, Rhapsody users can check him out at http://www.rhapsody.com/danny-wright

Wrapping Your Mind Around CityCenter – Chances are you’ll be checking out CityCenter on your next visit so you can see what $8.5 billion buys these days. The L.A. Times did a nice interactive graphical presentation that should help you get a feel for how CityCenter is set up: Interactive graphic: A new center in the city

Las Vegas’ McCarran Airport – saw traffic fall nearly 9% in 2009. Much of this was due to capacity cuts by US Air (Airways… whatever). For the better part of two decades, America West Airlines used Las Vegas as a key hub. But as the merger with US Air was integrated, the redundancy of having hubs in both Phoenix and Las Vegas combined with US Air being less aggressive than America West with pricing has led to the cutting of Las Vegas as a hub.

For many years, American West ran a strong “third shift” operation at McCarran with hordes of planes landing around 11 PM for midnight red-eye flights to points around the nation. Generally speaking, the more hours per day an airline can keep an aircraft in the air, the more it can make against the fixed costs of owning or leasing the plane. However, the softer tourism demand of the past couple of years stopped making many of red-eyes feasible.

I’d love to see them return. Nothing beat parking myself at the airport viewing area about 11 PM on a hot summer night and watching continual landings and departures. And for many of you, nothing beat maximizing your time in Las Vegas by staying the entire final day of your trip before catching an overnight flight home.

A Great Place To Live If – For well over a year, I’ve been noting that Southern Nevada is a great place to move if one is financially stable (won’t need to look for work here), including for retirees. Housing prices are at historic lows and all projections maintain low Las Vegas home prices throughout all of 2010.

Economic analysts are now jumping on that bandwagon, noting that seniors bring disposable retirement income while not consuming high-cost government services like schools. These analysts are suggesting that money be spent to market Las Vegas as a retirement location.

In related news, Las Vegas is looking at zero job growth in 2010 and recent reports predict around 100,000 people leaving Nevada in the next 5 years. Is the contraction a bad thing? Not necessarily. Las Vegas grew WAY too fast, and a few years of stabilization will be good in the long term.

Las Vegas Growth Video – Sometimes it is difficult to comprehend how fast and huge Las Vegas grew in a mere 25 years. Check out the following short video: Growth In Las Vegas 1984 to 2009

But The Good News For You Is – Deals, deals and more deals! Hotels are fighting each other to out-offer bonuses for staying with them. Starting this issue, we’ll be listing a number of those bonus offers each week.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Jon Stewart To Perform At The Mirage February 5 And 6 – Television star and stand-up comic Jon Stewart, brings his award-winning talent to The Terry Fator Theatre at The Mirage Friday, Feb. 5 and Saturday, Feb. 6 at 10 p.m. Jon Stewart is considered one of America’s top social and comedic voices. Over the past 10 years, Stewart has redefined political satire in American culture from his perch atop the anchor chair on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” To date, Stewart and “The Daily Show” have received 28 Emmy Award nominations and won 13.

Bellagio Fountains from Fontana Lounge

Bellagio Introduces Las Vegas’ Most Stunning Sunday Brunch Experience – Fountains Brunch at Jasmine Delights Senses by Pairing Delectable Gourmet Dishes with Breathtaking Visual of Resort’s Iconic Dancing Waters. For the first time in the AAA Five Diamond resort’s history, guests of Bellagio are invited to partake in an unrivaled brunch experience, featuring a bevy of gourmet and traditional cuisine, while enjoying sweeping views of Bellagio’s lake and world-renowned fountains. Fountains Brunch at Jasmine now redefines Sunday brunch in Las Vegas.

United Way’s Annual Women’s Leadership Luncheon Features Keynote Speaker Marie Osmond – United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council hosts its second annual Women’s Leadership Luncheon at Paris Las Vegas on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. and welcomes celebrity keynote speaker – and renowned philanthropist – Marie Osmond. The exclusive event also honors three outstanding women leaders in United Way’s focus areas of education, health and financial stability. Serving as the event’s keynote speaker, internationally-recognized celebrity and local headliner Marie Osmond will discuss her own charitable work and the inspiring stories she’s helped to create along the way. Osmond is the co-founder of the Children’s Miracle Network, which has helped more than 17 million kids obtain quality healthcare. She also serves as the spokeswoman for the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” campaign.

The Stratosphere Las Vegas Hotel & Casino To Add World’s Highest “Skyjump” To Their Collection Of Thrills – The Stratosphere Las Vegas Hotel & Casino today announced the addition of their next big thrill – SkyJump Las Vegas. What will undoubtedly become one of the top tourist attractions in North America, the skyjump is best described as a “controlled freefall.” Lucky adrenaline junkies and average Joes alike, will have the opportunity to plummet 855 feet at a scream-inducing speed of up to 40 mph – all while enjoying breathtaking views of the world famous Las Vegas Strip…if they can bear to keep their eyes open.

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Hoover Dam Tour Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour – This is the “Best of the Best” Hoover Dam Tour! Your professional tour guides will educate and entertain you on all aspects of Hoover Dam in an informative and interesting way, allowing you to enjoy every moment of your visit. Not only will you join the Government’s Power Plant Tour and Visitor Center Tour, the Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour is one of the only excursions from Las Vegas to offer an exclusive 45-minute Walk On The Top tour. Highlights: * Informative, friendly and professional guide * All entrance fees included * Lunch included

Click For More Details And Book
The Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I just got back from Las Vegas a couple of weeks ago, why do they have all those people down by Paris handing out those cards of the girls? You try to ignore them and they snap them in your face. Very scary for two senior citizens. That spoiled our other wise nice vacation.

Lorraine

Ted Responds:

With the help of the ACLU, what they do (handing out the “girls to your room” cards) has been determined “protected” as free speech.

Just ignore them. They can’t make any contact with you or touch you in any way (or it could be construed as misdemeanor battery) so I just continue on my way and stay my course. Others choose just to move to the other side of the sidewalk.

They are clustered together in certain areas of The Strip because laws were able to be made restricting the zones people can hand out solicitations in.

Was in Vegas over Thanksgiving. We read comments positive and negative about the Rio. Our stay was excellent. Our flight was early and we were allowed to check in @ 10:00 am. When we got to our room we had a problem with our safe. Help arrived in 10 minutes.

Our suite was very clean.The shuttle to the strip was great and on time. The only problem was on Friday the 27th around midnight. There was a shooting at Caesars and the strip was shut down.

We saw 4 great shows. David Copperfield, Carrot top, Love and Le Reve. Carrot Top was a great surprise. We are looking forward to returning in the spring for”Dinner in the Sky” which was canceled for the winter.

We have stayed at most of Harrah’s hotels.Flamingo, Caesars, Bally’s,and Rio.The only thing that I noticed that more and more kids are in the casinos. This was in almost every casino we went to. Wynn, MGM, Luxor not just our hotel. Thanks for your newsletters, they are great. Sorry for your loss.

Jerry Mclaughlin

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the condolences. Has been a tough few weeks.

You are going to get lots of kids over Thanksgiving weekend. Over the past few years, far-flung families have made it more and more of a tradition for everybody to meet up in Las Vegas. Everybody can get together for a Thanksgiving dinner at just about any restaurant ranging from buffets to fine dining.

The most common thing we hear about Carrot Top (and I agree) is that people didn’t think he would be that great, and they ended up loving the show. He is really, really funny and full of energy. His success here is not a fluke.

Dinner In The Sky returns March 19 of this year! It is a little pricey but an experience you’ll never forget. People can book it now: Las Vegas Dinner In The Sky

I just got back from Vegas and realized something. The job market is tough and competition for business is high. Why don’t the casinos do a better job of hiring dealers that speak well and that are very friendly?? We went up to play at some of the tables and a word was never spoken by the dealers! It happened at several different casinos.

Don’t the casinos realize that if you increase your customer service you will get more people coming in the door to your casino, there are many to pick from. Heck, the Walmart greeters are more friendly than most dealers. If they were required to learn everyones name and where they were from it would open up some dialog. And if the dealers were nice and smiled that may be a plus too!

P.S. If the dealers were more friendly don’t they realize they would make more money from tips!

Gary Nawrocki

Ted Responds:

Funny this should come up because I recently saw a craps table where the dealer was so unfriendly and gruff that a couple of guys with hundreds of dollars of chips each in front of them literally scooped them up and went to the cage.

Here is what is happening (and yes, the dealers and others service industry workers are shooting themselves in the foot):

For decades, those living and working in Las Vegas knew it was all about the customer. Take care of the customer, the money will follow. People moving here and looking to get into casino work understood that it was the SERVICE industry.

As Las Vegas started to boom, word got out that Las Vegas was a great place to make good money doing marginally skilled labor. Instead of moving here for the weather or the libertarian live-and-let-live atmosphere, it was for the buck. And… the money was good through the boom. People got spoiled and started expecting it.

Now, the gravy train is over and the service workers are mad that you aren’t spending like you used to. So instead of trying harder and really working to earn those tips (like they used to), now they just mope. When in reality, they should be thankful they have a job right now!

What can you do? Don’t be bashful about withholding tips (when appropriate) or tipping low for lousy service. You don’t own anyone your hard-earned cash unless they in return earn it. Also, if you really encounter a bad-attitude employee or simply terrible service, don’t be scared to pull a pit boss or manager (whatever applies to the situation) aside and politely mention it.

I’m probably not making very many friends in the service industry with these comments, but guess what guys: Tips are earned.

Just got back from another fantastic trip. We go about twice a year. We stayed at the Sahara and to be honest I was a little worried after all the reports I was hearing but my worries were unfounded. The rooms were fabulous, the entire staff friendly and professional, and we actually won a little bit of money.

The Riviera on the other had was a complete disappointment, they should change the name of that place to the Morgue. There was no one there gambling and we went on two separate occasions, and to top it off after a couple hours of play nothing to show for it.

Thank you for putting out a wonderful newsletter, keep up the good work.

Gary & Crystal from Colorado

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Super Bowl Sunday February 7
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2010 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

January 20, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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January 9, 2010

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 6, 2010

January 09th 2010 Posted to Las Vegas Newsletter

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
Seasonal Vegas Information
  • Superbowl Events
  • Valentine’s Day Events
  • Mardi Gras Events
  • St. Patrick’s Day Events
  • March Madness Events
  • Spring Break Events
  • Cinco de Mayo Events
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

If you were not in Las Vegas the past week, bummer for you as our part of the country was one of the few that escaped the bitter cold that extended all the way down into Florida. We’re looking at plenty of sun and highs right at the 60 degree (F) mark the next 10 days or so. If you need to thaw out, a spur-of-the-moment Vegas trip is in order! As always, visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations for really great hotel rates.

New Years Eve Was HUGE – No recession in sight as 315,000 people flocked to Las Vegas to welcome the new decade. The fireworks were shot off from seven hotel roofs giving just about everyone who braved the cold (upper 30’s, roughly 10 degrees colder than normal) on the Las Vegas Strip. Every hotel and nightclub had numerous indoor parties for the less hardy who enjoyed watching the fireworks on high-def big screens.

New York can have their boring ball drop where the crowds were searched, no bags allowed, no booze allowed and people just about froze to death waiting for an anti-climatic one-minute countdown. The only reason we have not far surpassed them as North America’s #1 New Years destination is that by the time our party is in full swing, much of the U.S. is already asleep due to the time zone differences and never gets to see it live on TV.

Don’t take my word for it. Many of you probably watched that ball drop (hope it didn’t get you blood pressure up too much… yawn). Check out the first link in this story list and watch the full 7 1/2 minutes of what Vegas did to ring in 2010:

Planet Harrahswood Is Close – All seems to be in place for the Harrah’s (corporation) buyout of enough Plant Hollywood debt to take over the place. Many have mixed feelings on this one. Some really like Harrah’s properties. Others are lamenting the loss of what is considered an “indie” property that really tried harder with good gaming value and solid customer service.

My prediction? The new Tropicana (currently undergoing extensive remodeling to a South Beach theme) is poised to become the new Plant Hollywood. The upgrades and re-theming will make the once-aging property very attractive and hip. The “old-school” executives and management who have left other properties to go to The Tropicana will likely bring back some of the more traditional good gaming odds and customer service that some see as currently lacking.

Speaking Of… Look What I Found! – Down in the bottom of a box from my move almost a year ago, I found a deck of playing cards from The Aladdin (the hotel that became Planet Hollywood). These were used in actual play, have been sealed every since, and are now obviously a collectors item.

Guess what? I’m giving them away. But… I’m making you work for them. You need to tell me two things about the following picture:

The location in the above picture used to be the exact spot of a world famous Las Vegas exhibit seen by hundreds of thousands (perhaps millions) over many decades. 1. What hotel is this? 2. What exhibit used to occupy this spot? Send an email with the word Aladdin in the subject line to allvegastv@aol.com and the answer to both questions. On January 20′th, 2010 we’ll pick a random winner for those answering both questions correctly.

Holidays In Las Vegas – Just about every year prior to Thanksgiving, I note that more and more extended families decide to come together and meet in Las Vegas. While not originally the case in decades past, Thanksgiving and Christmas (when it falls on or near a weekend) are now two more popular times of year here. 2009 was no exception as business was brisk on both holidays!

We are always searching for Vegas comments on blogs to gauge the pulse of how the world sees us. I recently saw a number of posts saying (to paraphrase): Vegas must be dying. We were there the week before Christmas and it was dead. DUH! These people obviously were not here on Thanksgiving, Christmas or especially New Years Eve. In fact…

Hint for December 2010 – The week before Christmas has always been the slowest time of the year. If you want the cheapest room rates, least amount of crowds, and virtually no lines, visit 7-10 days before Christmas (and especially on weekdays). My advice? This coming year, get your holiday shopping done early then reward yourself with a pre-Christmas trip to Las Vegas!

Nevada Unemployment Drops – While this may look like a good sign for the state, I borrow from the famed broadcaster Paul Harvey and note that you need to hear “the rest of the story”. For about the first time in 100 years, Nevada’s population dropped almost 30,000 people from 2008 – 2009. People are simply “getting out of Dodge” which has helped employment pressures.

To those thinking of moving here, I continue to give this advice: Only move to Las Vegas if you are independently wealthy or have a very stable job that allows you to live just about anywhere you have an internet connection and can get to an airport. If you fall into those categories, Las Vegas housing prices are very attractive. If you don’t fall into the above categories, just keep enjoying the historic low hotel rates and dining values on your visits. (Hint: Find them by following our EasyVegasDeals.com blog). There has never been a better time to stretch your dollar in Las Vegas!

You Too Can Jump Off The Stratosphere Tower – This is breaking news so we’ll have full info next issue. The Stratosphere is going to give people the opportunity to plummet 855 feet off the side of the tower. The “ride” will be called SkyJump. Stay tuned next issue for full details and a photo.

Welcome To 2010 – Can you believe that this coming May will mark 11 years I’ve been publishing this newsletter? It started out as Las Vegas’ very first blog (way before the term was coined). Look where we are today. I wish you and yours a far better 2010 than 2009, and know that your 2010 trip(s) to Las Vegas will be some of the highlights of your year. We’ll do everything we can to help that happen.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

Bally’s from $39, El Cortez from $40, Fitzgeralds from $23, Hooters from $24, Orleans from $33, Riviera from $29, Sahara from $27, Stratosphere from $26, Tropicana from $28, Tuscany from $25, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Disney’s The Lion King Shatters Its Own Box Office Record At Mandalay Bay Theater In Las Vegas – Disney’s landmark musical event, THE LION KING, has broken its own Mandalay Bay Theater box office record with a gross of $1,314,161 during the eight-performance week of December 21-27, 2009. The previous Mandalay Bay Theater record held by THE LION KING was a gross of $1,200,128 (set week ending July 26, 2009). For Las Vegas, Disney hand-selected an international cast of performers who have won acclaim in productions of THE LION KING across the globe, including Broadway, Taipei, South Africa, London, Los Angeles, Australia, Toronto, Shanghai, Paris and Holland.

World’s Largest Helium Balloon On THE Las Vegas Strip – Cloud Nine offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the famed Las Vegas skyline from nearly 500 feet in the air. The balloon is tethered to the ground and can quietly/safely elevate up to 30 passengers at a time. Ticket prices start at $17.50 for children and $22.50 for adults.Tickets are available for purchase at the location. Directly across from the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Cloud Nine, the world’s largest land-tethered, helium-filled balloon and is open to the public.

Devi Kroell Now Open At The Forum Shops – Borrowing from the aesthetic traditions of iconic Viennese artists—from Gustav Klimt’s rich, saturated palette to Adolf Loos’ streamlined structures—Austria-born , New York-based Devi Kroell debuted her eponymous collection in Spring 2004. First focusing on understated, sculptural handbags rendered in exotic materials, Kroell expanded into footwear in Fall 2006, and unveiled her first ready-to-wear collection for Spring 2009.

Mandarin Oriental Grand Opening Gala – Taiko drummers rhythmically set the pulse as guests filed in to the richly decorated morning ceremony, hosted on the hotel port-cochere. Speeches included comments by Edouard Ettedgui, Group Chief Executive, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Jim Murren, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, MGM MIRAGE, William Grounds, President and Chief Operating Officer of Infinity World Development Corp., Congressman Dean Heller and General Manager Rajesh Jhingon. Guest proceeded to the hotel’s 23rd Floor Sky Lobby for a champagne reception and preview tours.

The Gallery To Present ‘Chihuly At CityCenter’ – Dramatic Exhibition Venue To Feature Stunning Chihuly Collection Upon December Debut – Chihuly at CityCenter debuts a dynamic exhibition space located within Crystals at CityCenter in Las Vegas. Spanning 4,350 square feet, the compelling presentation features a diverse representation of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s sculptures, drawings, editions and prints. Recognized for his masterful use of color, fluid forms and large-scale glass installations, Chihuly’s CityCenter exhibition highlights a number of his important works.

MMA Retail Stores Debut At Mandalay Bay and Luxor – Fans of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) can punch-up their wardrobes at two new retail stores dedicated to this increasingly popular sport – Fight Museum within Mandalay Bay and LX Fight Shop at Luxor.

  • Mandalay Bay – Fight Museum features trendy, MMA-associated clothing brands such as Xtreme Couture, TapouT, Silver Star Clothing and Hitman Fight Gear. Collector’s items such as signed memorabilia and clothing worn by well-known fighters can be purchased as well. Location: Near main lobby
  • Luxor – LX Fight Shop also sells fashionable MMA-related attire as well as books, DVDs and a wide range of energy drinks, diet supplements and other sundries associated with this intense action sport. Location: Atrium Level

Rick Faugno Reprises Acclaimed, One-Man Song And Dance Show At South Point Casino Showroom January 24 – Rick Faugno, one of the Strip’s popular Broadway imports who currently stars as Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys,” will reprise his critically-acclaimed, one-man song and dance show and release his first CD, “Songs My Idols Sang (And Danced!)” on Sunday, Jan. 24, at 3 p.m. in the 400-seat South Point Casino Showroom. The triple-threat Faugno, with his professional dancing, singing and acting talents, premiered his solo show last August and sold out two performances in 48 hours. “I’m especially excited about my first CD and re-creating the magic that I was able to capture on stage with my musical director Keith Thompson, my band and in the recording studio,” said Faugno. “And I’m thrilled about sharing some of my favorite music from the Great American songbook, as well as presenting it in a new light.”

Las Vegas Deals

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

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Why don’t you run a commentary about the outrageous car rental prices now being charged at the airport? Also what drew people to Vegas was the cheap food and cheap Hotel rooms 10-20 years ago. Maybe the hotel owners should get together and go back to their roots and roll back prices to bring affordability back into focus for the average Joe.

Perry

Ted Responds:

We were vocally against the rental car tax increases last year (to fund a performing arts center). We also noted just a few weeks ago that you can rent a car at a number of hotels on The Strip and avoid the very high airport rental tax. Use a shuttle to get to your hotel, then rent a car only for the time/days you need it.

Hint: When you go to respective car rental websites, ignore the searches that include major airports. Instead, search by zip code. 89119 if you are staying south of Flamingo Blvd. (on the Strip), 89119 if north of Flamingo, 89101 if staying downtown.

I agree that you should not need to pay outrageous airport rental car taxes when alternatives are available. Cities don’t understand the bad taste high rental car taxes leave on a visitor. You get somewhere and have rented a car for $50 a day only to find out the fee (after taxes) is nearly double. And… that is your very first impression of a place after stepping off the airplane!

Hertz has a booth at many of the major resort casinos. Also, Enterprise will “pick you up” so you may want to look into them as well.

As we’ve been discussing over the past few months, the economy has forced properties to start to make changes. For example, Harrah’s (corporation) has just stopped charging resort fees, meaning no hidden surprise when you check in or check out. For gambling, walk your business downtown where the table game rules tend to be better for the player, the food cheaper, and the machines seem to be looser.

My partner and myself are coming for the first time to Vegas around the 25th of June 2010 for 7 nights and would like to know what show stars are appearing at Vegas at that time. Can you give me some help and what site to book tickets? Your help would be most appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Steve Easthope

Ted Responds:

In every newsletter on the right hand sidebar, we list all coming concerts that are booked at any given time. By clicking on any of the concert and artist links here in the newsletter, you can buy tickets.

You can also go to http://entertainment.accessvegas.com and check your dates and see what is available.

The best way to stay up-to-date info on all coming happenings, what’s new in Las Vegas, and other information you need is to simply stay subscribed!

I have a suggestion for David from Canada regarding cash (ATM’s and similar). I also don’t like to carry too much cash so I opened a “line of credit” at one of the casinos. I am now able to cash a check without being charged a fee. Usually I carry only two checks with me with the amount in my checking account “set” so I can’t get carried away. Asking for a “marker” and then settling up at the end of the trip is also an option. But, you MUST be disciplined so you don’t gamble away your house:-)

Diane Podemski

Ted Responds:

Good suggestion, although you are correct: Many might perhaps feel an obligation (or temptation) to gamble more than they otherwise would. Which is the reason casinos give you a line of credit in the first place!

Just returned from Vegas, staying at the Hilton. Great hotel! Visited the Palazzo and while playing a slot machine ordered a Chivas on the rocks. The drink arrived but it sure wasn’t Chivas. I had a couple of sips and then left the drink. Why should the Palazzo receive so many diamonds when they serve a cheap replacement for Chivas? My first and last visit to the Palazzo has just happened.

Neil Thompson

Ted Responds:

Interesting note. Chivas has a very definitive taste so no question you’d know if you were getting it or not.

I’ve heard rumblings that some properties pour generic booze even if you ask for something specific (sometimes depending on what level you are playing at). I know that I’ve called for Jack/rocks and what I got wasn’t Jack Daniels, which has a specific, recognizable taste as well. Be interesting to see if we get any other stories about this or if Venetian responds.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

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

  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 16-18 (3 day weekend)
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 7
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 13-15 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 14
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • Mardi Gras February 16
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 4
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 9
  • Memorial Day, U.S May 29-31 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 20
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada July 31-August 2 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 9
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day, U.S November 25-28 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 2 – Dec. 9
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 2 (3 day weekend)

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

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

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

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

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

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

January 6, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Comments Off