AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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Archive for May, 2010

May 19, 2010

Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 19, 2010

May 19th 2010 Posted to Las Vegas Newsletter

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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:

Hello From Las Vegas! Spring is giving way to summer although it is going to try to hold on for one more week with highs in the 70’s and 80’s F. Soon to be hot, hot, hot in the day, just simply hot at midnight, and in the 80’s late night. Many of us who live here and have a flexible schedule shift our workdays to take advantage of this. Working in the afternoon and evening allows us to miss the hottest part of the day plus rush hour. (Yes, we have rush hour here).

You know how crowded the grocery store is at 5:30 PM and the lines for your favorite restaurant at 6 PM? I don’t! Plus, the summer weather is perfect about 2 AM. But hey, that is why you come here — to get away from that everyday grind and enjoy warm weather, late-night fun on The Strip and Downtown! Somebody has to keep “Vegas Hours” so we can keep you informed on Vegas happenings.

We’re Almost “Yo Eleven”! – Between 17 years of living here and a penchant for the occasional roll of the craps dice, I inadvertently put the word “Yo” in front of the word “eleven” when I speak. For those not familiar with craps, the roll of an 11 is also called a Yo, and you’ll hear dealers bellow “Yo Eleven” when a player tosses the number 11. Why am I getting sidetracked on this crazy idiosyncrasy? Next week will mark the 11′th anniversary of our newsletter! Many newsletters put the issue number in the mast. Me… I have completely no clue (it has to be near 500). It’s been a blur, I couldn’t dream of doing anything else, and here’s to another 11 years!

Ouch – The jobless rate in the Las Vegas area stands at over 14%. I can’t emphasize this enough: Come visit and have a blast. Your fun helps locals pay their bills. But don’t dream of moving here right now unless you independently wealthy, have a retirement income, or have a business that is doing OK and allows you to live anywhere. Speaking of, we’re doing our part to work on that employment number:

Aloha Jennifer – We have a new staff member! Hawaii native Jennifer Miller just graduated from UNLV with a Broadcast Journalism degree. She’s worked on the UNLV Rebel Yell (student newspaper), interned with Fox 5’s MORE! (live mid-morning show) and has had stories appear in local print media.

But I took her away from all that. My name is Charlie. (OK… bad joke for those of you old enough to remember the Charlie’s Angels TV show. The rest of you can Netflix it).

She’ll be our Junior Managing Editor in charge of growing the content not just for AccessVegas.com but the pending sites in Reno, Laughlin, Biloxi, and Atlantic City. If you hit any of America’s favorite gaming/resort destinations, we’ll have you covered. She and our other writers are also going to get a lot more active in covering all of the cool, crazy events that happen here.

One problem we face is that we often get notified of awesome events (often free or cheap) with only a day or two notice and really have not had the staff to get short-notice info to you (via Twitter or text). And, we’d like to be more active on our social networking sites. After all, you guys are our friends! And, we’re going to fine-tune a comprehensive event calendar available online and on your phone.

Plus truckloads more positive changes and improvements we have to keep under wraps a little bit longer. Oh, and once Jennifer is running full-tilt, I’ll start podcasting again. We had to drop that years ago and I’m still getting requests to start it back up again. Plus some video blogging (the prospect of which has forced me onto a needed diet) and lots more.

Diamonds Are Forever – Speaking of Netflix, it’s just about time for me to put the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds are Forever in my queue. The core of the movie was shot on location in and around Las Vegas and it is really interesting to see what everything looked like back then (and see just how little Circus Circus has changed in 30 years).

Memorial Day Tip – Our advice? Come to Las Vegas the week following Memorial Day weekend. The week after a major holiday is often a big lull here. Lower room rates and more elbow room abound. Go visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and punch in the dates June 1 through June 4 of this year and see for yourself.

The beautiful pool at the TuscanyMy pick? The Tuscany All Suites Hotel is 2 minutes from The Strip (by car or city bus) or a 7 minute walk. Features upgraded amenities in each room, full casino, right across the street from Las Vegas Restaurant Row, and (hold onto your hat for this one) currently going for $30 a night on the search I just did (above paragraph). Plus they’ll toss in * $20 Food Credit at Tuscany Gardens restaurant * Two Entrees for the price of one at Marilyn’s Cafe or The Cantina * Two Free Drinks at any casino bar * Free Match Play on table games.

So what that airfares are on the high side? Tell me where else you’re going $30 suites at a nice place like this? Everybody quit your airfare bitchin’ and come scoop up our dirt-cheap rooms!

Members Mania News – We’ll soon be moving “Members Mania” online to a blog format. Don’t worry — we’ll link to all the postings here in the newsletter. You’ll have no problem accessing it. However, the sheer number of emails that we don’t get to (and so many of them are so good) has prompted this move. We’ll be able to answer so many more people and make so much more information available.

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!

Celine Dion Voted America’s Favorite Singer/Musician – New Las Vegas Show To Premiere March 2011 At Caesars Palace – The results are in and Celine Dion has been named America’s favorite singer by a new Harris Poll released May 6, 2010. In great company U2 followed in second place, Elvis Presley and the Beatles tied for third and Tim McGraw charted fifth. Rounding out the top ten, Lady Gaga finished in sixth place, George Strait and Rascal Flatts came in seventh and eighth and Alan Jackson and Frank Sinatra tied for the ninth place spot . This is great news for Americans who now have the opportunity to see their favorite singer in Las Vegas as Celine embarks on a three year residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning March 15, 2011.

Tacos & Tequila Introduces The “Black Mamba Margarita” – The mouth-watering drink menu at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor is about to get more exciting with the “Black Mamba Margarita.” The exotic new drink combines Hennessy Black and Hornitos Reposado for a striking new margarita taste just in time for summer. “Black Mamba Margarita” recipe:
0.75 oz Hennessy Black
0.75 oz Hornitos Reposado Tequila
0.75 oz Triple Sec
3 oz fresh sour
Lime wedge for garnish
Shaken to perfection and poured over ice with a lime wedge, this specialty drink pairs well with T&’s spicier selections such as the pulled pork tacos or chile relleno.

City’s Hottest Chefs Cook To Fight Childhood Hunger In Las Vegas – With a passion to fight childhood hunger, Las Vegas’ hottest chefs, restaurants, and mixologists will gather for Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation®, the city’s premier culinary benefit. Taste of the Nation Las Vegas will raise critical funds needed to support Share Our Strength’s efforts to end childhood hunger in the Las Vegas valley and across the nation. This year’s event will be Wednesday, June 2 at Rain Nightclub at the Palms Casino Resort from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, with a VIP reception beginning at 5:30 pm. More than 30 of the city’s finest chefs and restaurants will participate in the gastronomic event.


Photo Credit: Shane O’Neal

Hope Dworaczyk Named Playmate of the Year 2010 – Over at Rain Nightclub, Playboy’s most iconic tradition took place and Playmate of the Year 2010 was announced by Playboy founder and legend, Hugh Hefner. Hefner honored winner, Hope Dworaczyk (Playmate of the Month April 2009) by presenting her with a framed cover issue of her June 2010 magazine cover, keys to a new BMW motorcycle and a check for $100,000. Singer Robin Thicke serenaded guests with a special performance and Dworaczyk joined him on stage . Additional entertainment included a performance by Sony recording artist, The White Tie Affair as well as The Playmate Dancers.

Roger Waters To Bring “The Wall North American Tour” To MGM Grand Garden Arena Friday, November 26 – Roger Waters, co-founder and principal songwriter of the progressive rock band Pink Floyd, will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the original release of The Wall with a monumental tour including a stop at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Friday, Nov. 26. The Thanksgiving weekend show, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature a full band and a newly mounted state-of-the-art production of his ‘masterpiece of alienation and transformation’ performed in its entirety.

Lagasse’s Stadium At The Palazzo Welcomes UFC Fighter Shane Carwin – The Palazzo welcomes UFC Heavyweight Champion Shane Carwin on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 7:00pm as he hosts the UFC 114 Rampage v. Evans Viewing Party inside Lagasse’s Stadium. Carwin, the UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion, will welcome the crowd and recount his favorite UFC moments, who he think will win UFC 114, and his thoughts on fighting Brock Lesnar on July 3rd for UFC 116. Following, fans will have an opportunity to meet Carwin in person for photos and autographs. Prior to Carwin’s welcome, guests are invited to watch pre-commentary and analysis of the UFC fights.

UFC, Red Rock Harley-Davidson And High Rollers Motorcycle Club Host 8th Annual Poker Run On June 6 – Fighters from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders know toughness when they see it. And to them, no one is tougher than those who are fighting cancer. That toughness is why the UFC and Red Rock Harley-Davidson will join the High Rollers Motorcycle Club on Sunday, June 6, for the eighth annual High Rollers Poker Run. The event will support The Caring Place, a local nonprofit that provides no-cost, adjunctive therapies to those touched by cancer. The Poker Run will kick off at 10 a.m. at Red Rock Harley-Davidson, located at 2260 S. Rainbow Blvd., and conclude with a party at The Orleans Hotel and Casino pool.

Fremont Street Experience Is Getting Groovy With “Summer Of The ’70s” – Festival And Free Concert Series Begins Memorial Day Weekend – The music and culture from the decade of the 1970s will return to downtown Las Vegas this summer as Fremont Street Experience presents the “Summer of the ’70s” festival and free concert series. The 102-day promotion will kick off Memorial Day Weekend and run through Labor Day Weekend. “This year, as a follow-up to last year’s successful ‘Summer of ‘69′ which drew record nightly crowds to downtown Las Vegas, we decided to move to the next decade and focus on the 1970s,” said Jeff Victor, president of Fremont Street Experience. “Throughout this summer, we will present headliners and tribute bands who will bring back the diverse music of the ’70s, everything from classic rock to disco.”

The Forum Shops At Caesars Announces More Retailers, Expansions, Restaurant Openings For 2010 – Premier Retail Destination Announces More 2010 Openings Including the Largest H&M in the U.S. and Las Vegas’ First P.J. Clarke’s and More. Maintaining its position as one of the nation’s top-selling shopping centers, The Forum Shops at Caesars continues its winning streak as the premier retail, dining and entertainment destination. The Forum Shops is now welcoming eight new retailers and restaurants. In addition, due to increasing sales and demand, six current world-renowned retailers are expanding and remodeling their space.

Miss Kitty Slot MachineGambling Talk: Video Slots – Miss Kitty™ - with Victor H. Royer. Cut yourself a swath of rich winnings from this great multi-line slot machine from Aristocrat! Some people are dog people, and others are cat people. I have always been a cat person, although I have no problems with any of our four-legged friends. But cats are my thing … I just like them as pets, and basically anything with that motif. I am one of those people who are attracted to any item, or merchandise, with a “cat” theme. My best pet ever was a stray tabby cat that found its way to our back porch as a tiny kitten. We rescued it, and it was a valued part of our family for all the 14 years of its life. It was a wonderful cat, and a good friend.

So, whenever I have a chance to find a slot machine with a “cat” theme, it’s one that I always investigate, and like to play. Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon RideLas Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride – The Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon ride is the most romantic way to fly over Las Vegas. This spectacular balloon flight begins in the southwest valley, you will enjoy scenic views of Las Vegas’ residential areas, the renowned Las Vegas Strip to the east and the majestic Red Rock Mountains and Red Rock Canyon to the west.

Click To Book Las Vegas Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I was in Las Vegas with my 48 year old son a week ago, and we, too, encountered the people handing out the hooker ads. My son accepted each little card, explaining, “The guys at work get a kick out of these.” Yeah. Right. But when they’d try to hand one to me, I’d just say in my best mid-seventies voice, “I’m too old.” It always seemed to satisfy them. They never seemed very pushy about it.

The people I resented were those who accepted the cards and dropped them on the ground, I suppose in an act of contempt. I felt the children going by were more exposed to the lurid pictures on the ground than they were to the ones in vendor’s hands. My suggestion is to ignore the vendors or just say no thanks.

The thing that really upset me on this trip was to discover how thoroughly the 6 to 5 blackjacks have taken over the strip. I was especially amazed, at the Flamingo, to see that while they offered both 6 to 5 (on single-deck) and 3 to 2 (on shoes), the single-deck rip-offs had players even when the good shoes had plenty of room. I made it a point to ask pit personnel in every place we were in what they paid, and told those who were 6 to 5 that I couldn’t play their games. I also congratulated any pit boss whose games gave fair odds.

By the way, I came home a small winner. Beats any sized loss, right?

Keep up the good work.

Caravan 520 from Michigan

Ted Responds:

In the next letter, we have a novel solution for at least part of the “girls to your room” cards. One that the hotels and county officials could easily introduce.

Unfortunately, the lower pay blackjack really has taken over The Strip. (Not so much downtown, although you have to look at each table to see what it says the payout is, or ask the dealer before sitting down).

Since we always have new readers, I’ll briefly explain: Blackjack should pay 3-2. This means that if you get a blackjack on (for example) a $10 bet, you should get paid $15. Been that way for many decades. However, many casinos are offering blackjack at 6-5. In real numbers, $12 payout on a $10 bet. Our advice? Don’t play the 6-5 games. The simply odds are that you’ll lose faster because you are being paid less on the big wins.

A simple solution would be to put in trash cans on the city sidewalks. People can either not take the card or just drop them in the nearby cans. Why all the meetings and big decision makers making such a fuss. Women know how to solve little problems. Drop your trash in the trash can.

Also where are all the beautiful pictures that were always posted on your site? Have not seen the Gardens, or the beautiful ceiling in Glass or anything else that was fun to see. Your Website is full of information on so much that is going on but no pictures of anything we always love to see when we visit. Hope you get back to more pictures soon. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words.

CJ from Florida (Mark’s Mom)

Ted Responds:

I’m surprised no one has really brought that up yet. But prominent garbage cans with big signs that say “Drop Cards and Trash” right next to the area the cards are handed out could have a big double-impact:

1. People would be far less likely to litter with an easy way to toss the card. The simple suggestion in writing to drop the cards in the trash would encourage most people to dispose of them properly.
2. The would be disheartening to those passing the cards out. They get a commission when someone calls the number on the card and books and escort. To have them actually see their hard work going into the trash could help take the wind out of their sails.

Per pictures, we’ve been so focused on content upgrades that we haven’t introduced as many new photos sets as we usually do. That should start to change with more help coming on. In the meantime, remember that we have hundreds of Las Vegas photos at http://www.accessvegas.com/pictures

Enjoy reading your newsletter, thank you. Question- have you done a recent survey (hopefully with reviews) on the buffet scene in Vegas?

Thanks for any info.

Cheers,

Hugh Martell

Ted Responds:

Funny you should ask: One of Jennifer’s responsibilities will be coordinating first-hand reviews of every buffet in town. We’ll also be doing new sections on spas and golf! In the meantime, don’t forget that we have a comprehensive Las Vegas Dining section where you can view restaurant info by hotel, location, or cuisine: Las Vegas Dining and Restaurants

My wife and I love Las Vegas, and have been regular visitors since our first (25th anniversary) visit in 2004. Always so much to see and do!!

One problem though… even after trying as hard as I can, I can’t find a bar/nightclub on the strip that caters to a 40 to 60 yr old crowd, with 60s, 70s, and 80s, music, with dancing, and entertainment. Can you help? We would love to find a place like that… We are in our early 50’s and are not interested in the party bars frequented by the younger set.

We love your newsletters, they really keep the “Vegas vibe” with us when we can’t be there… Keep up the great work!

Kyle & Mary from Windsor, Ontario

Ted Responds:

The Las Vegas Rocks Cafe downtown in Neonopolis  is really working to fill that void with various events. For those looking for this experience, I’d call them (702.227.5872) when you hit town to see what they have going on during your stay.

Goldiggers at Golden Nugget comes close. Music is late 70’s through the 80’s played by a DJ. A modern club feel, but one where you don’t have to be under 40 to fit in. While not a club, the Wynn Las Vegas Jazz Brunch (click the link for info) might be right up your alley.

Given that the average age of Las Vegas visitors is late-40’s, I’m surprised someone hasn’t filled this niche a little better. The entire focus is on the 21-35 year old group with all of the pool parties and similar club-style events. Someone should take a stab at what you are asking for. The might make a killing!

Just want to say, it’s a great site.

Good information for my Vegas trips!

Greetings from Europe, The Netherlands.

Martijn

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:

  • 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)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 8

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

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May 12, 2010

Access Vegas Insider Vibe May 12, 2010

May 12th 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
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We had a scheduled week off last week. It was TOUGH to be indoors as weather has been stunning. 75-80 (F) most days although we’re still getting some spring winds. But alas, we’ve been hard at work on huge improvements to AccessVegas.com. We’re known for this newsletter and extremely proud of it. However, we want to have a world-class Las Vegas visitor site as well.

We’re also hard at work to expand the Access(name-of-city).com brand name to Reno, Laughlin, Phoenix, Albuquerque, New Orleans, Biloxi, and Atlantic City. A big task but (knock-on-wood) we have some great help coming on board to push this over the top. And yes, the new cities will have a newsletter similar to this one.

Cold Beer and Dirty Girls? – If this isn’t the crazy photo of the decade, I don’t know what is! New Treasure Island owner Phil Ruffin used to own The Frontier, which was famous in its latter days as the home of Gilley’s Country Bar. The motto was Cold Beer and Dirty Girls and featured attractions were mud wrestling and bikini bull riding.

Gilley's - Quite the Place to Be

Ruffin still had the rights to the Gilley’s name here in Las Vegas and if you’ve visited recently, you’ll notice the new Gilley’s fronts Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) right alongside the world-famous Sirens of TI show. However, Ruffin chose to keep the original Cirque du Soleil show Mystere. Some of the characters from Mystere stopped by in costume to welcome Gilley’s at the recent grand opening.

P.S. If you are interested in seeing how they pick the girls for Sirens of TI, check out the following photo sets: Sirens Of TI Tryouts 2005 and Sirens Of TI Tryouts 2007

Las Vegas Airport Rainbow 2008 004

We Miss Danny Gans – It just so happens that very recently was the one year anniversary of the passing of legendary Las Vegas headliner Danny Gans. Complete happenstance brought this photo to my attention about a week ago and it couldn’t be more fitting. One rarely sees rainbows in Las Vegas as it rarely rains and even more seldom the conditions needed for a rainbow to form.

We happened to be over by the airport (on Tropicana headed east, cross street Paradise) and boom — look what was in front of us but this stunning rainbow! At the time, it was just happenstance that the Gans billboard ended up in the shot. One year after his death, it seems incredibly appropriate as Gans was a man or strong faith and knew where he was going.

Side Note: I was headed to my chiropractor Dr. Steven Peck at 4680 South Eastern Ave. (702-454-4336). I’ve been meaning to give him a plug for a while because he is good. About three years ago, I was experiencing debilitating back pain. He really worked on it and worked with me and I was pain-free in six weeks of twice-weekly visits. Now, I go once every couple of months just to keep everything lined up. If you live here, check him out. Old school, honest, friendly guy who knows his stuff. Worth the drive from anywhere in town. (PS He has no clue I’m doing this, but if he can help anyone who was in my shoes, I’m happy).

Dirt Is Cheap – Undeveloped land values dropped almost 25% here during the past year. Wanna know what is interesting/amusing? Prices are at 2004 levels. If you have been reading the past few months, I’ve been saying that we (Las Vegas) aren’t in some kind of terrible/crazy/bad situation. Visitor numbers, the total employment base (amount of people who actually have jobs), and real estate prices are all at about 2004 levels. 2004 was considered to be a great year here on all accounts! How come I’m the only one that saw the boom as a complete aberration? (I could see that while we were in it — ask anyone who knows me).

Ladies and gentlemen, we are simply returning to normal. Cheap Vegas rooms, reasonable home prices, abundant and inexpensive commercial real estate rental rates (which will help start-up business develop). Once the last of the tens of thousands in the construction industry leave town in search of somewhere construction is on the horizon (reducing the unemployed percentage of population), our unemployment numbers will head down as well.

The Biggest Loser – No, I’m not talking about that weight loss based TV show. Terrance Watanabe of Nebraska lost $189 MILLION dollars at various Harrah’s-owned casinos in 2007. To put that in perspective: You’d have to spend over 1/2 a million dollars each and every day for a year to burn though that much money! This information has become public because Watanabe is suing Harrah’s (Corporation) with claims that they kept him boozed up, extended huge credit lines to him, and granted him extremely high table limits — much higher than other patrons.

Now as of yet (and as much as many new arrivals have tried), we aren’t yet a nanny state here in Nevada. We value the fact that humans are allowed to make their own decisions. Over my many year here, there have been numerous times when I asked the cocktail waitress for a water (instead of liquor). Cutting myself off. Same with how much I decide to gamble. I’ve been offered casino credit and turned it down. No one says I have to take the credit they extend.

As for betting limits, those are between you and the house. If you walk in with a million dollars in a suitcase and they allow you to bet it all on one hand of cards or roll of the dice, so be it. The contract is between you and them. In fact, certain bets like the front line in craps is called a contract bet because once you have made the bet, it stands until you win or lose.

If you want to read further details on this amazing story or make a comment regarding it, click over to Harrah’s Las Vegas High Rolling Gambler Loses $187 Million Dollars

What About The Euro? – Industry leaders are suggesting that the rising power of the dollar won’t hurt Las Vegas too badly as only 3% of our visitors come from Europe. However, 15% of our readership is European. (Funny… you think the hotels or the convention authority would be calling to ask me how to market Las Vegas to Europeans — I must be doing something right). Anyway, I want to affirm our continued commitment to both Europeans and everyone else that we’ll continue to keep you the most informed Las Vegas visitors around. Including how to make best use of your hard-earned (and perhaps devalued) vacation dollars.

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!

Michael Buble’s Crazy Love Tour At MGM Grand August 28 – GRAMMY Award-winner Michael Buble announced today he will bring his “Crazy Love Tour” to Las Vegas for a one-night-only performance at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Aug. 28. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Buble, often described by his peers as “one of the most likeable performers on Earth,” is touring in support of his No. 1 selling release Crazy Love. The album entered the Billboard Top 200 Chart at No. 1 and remained there for two consecutive weeks. Critics and fans agree that this is his best album to date.

Miss Nevada At Buca Di Beppo – The 2010 Miss USA Pageant contestants, dressed to impress – complete with sash and crown, descended upon Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant in Las Vegas this Friday. While enjoying their dining experience, all of the contestants – including Miss Nevada, Julianna Erdesz – joined Buca di Beppo Paisano Partner Ryan Smith as he taught the contestants the proper way to prepare their favorite dishes at the restaurant, and as with any Italian kitchen, taste tests were mandatory.

See Phantom, Matching Tickets For Troops – When you see Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular, so will our troops! Phantom will honor our military heroes by donating one Phantom ticket to the men and women of Nellis and Creech Air Force Base for every full-priced ticket purchased by the public during the month of May.

The Phantom Military “ticket match” is available for full-priced tickets purchased by the public during the month of May for performances May 1 – September 5, 2010. The code VALOR must be entered at time of purchase to count toward a ticket donation for the troops at Nellis and Creech Air Force Base.

  1. Go to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular tickets during this month (May 2010). You can purchase a ticket for any show through Sept. 5, 2010 but the ticket must be purchased by the end of this month.
  2. The code VALOR must be entered at time of purchase to count toward a ticket donation for the troops at Nellis and Creech Air Force Base.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Presents A Cabo-Style Memorial Day Weekend – Enjoy Prickly Pear Margaritas And Live Rock Bands On Cabo Wabo’s Cool, Outdoor Patio – For those that can’t make it to Mexico this Memorial Day weekend, celebrate Cabo-style at Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina. Whether looking to relax in the sun or seeking the exiting nightlife vibe of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Cabo Wabo’s lively patio is the perfect place to spend Memorial Day weekend – day or night. The beach-inspired patio brings the relaxing white, sandy beaches of Cabo to the exciting Las Vegas Strip. In true coastal fashion, guests will enjoy soaking up sun rays while sipping the refreshing Prickly Pear margarita, a fruity twist on Hagar’s favorite cocktail. And as night falls, Cabo Wabo will stay true to its name with an exciting lineup of live classic rock bands, hitting the stage nightly at 9:30 p.m. all weekend long.

Rush To Bring 2010 North American Time Machine Tour To MGM Grand – The sensational Canadian trio of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart – better known as RUSH – will bring “The Time Machine Tour” to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Aug. 14. The concert, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will feature Rush’s classic hits and feature the legendary Moving Pictures album live in its entirety. This summer’s tour will begin in June and will visit approximately 40 cities throughout North America including Boston, Denver and Dallas. Rush is one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history and is currently working on its 20th studio album with producer Nick Raskulinecz.

Erik Estrada Celebrates Cinco de Mayo At Tacos & Tequila – Television icon Erik Estrada celebrated Cinco de Mayo with the best fiesta on the Strip at Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor last night. Hundreds gathered for the CHiP’s-inspired bash, including local celebrity talent and performers such as Carrot Top, “Baywatch” beauty Angelica Bridges and the cast of FANTASY, Defending The Caveman’s Paul Perroni, members from Thunder From Down Under, Sandra Benten and Lori Legacy from Menopause The Musical, comedian magician Murray Sawchuck and illusionist Jonathan Silver. The entertainers all walked the red carpet donning a traditional sombrero before heading inside to enjoy the fiesta.

Marc Jacobs’ “MJ702LV: Shirt: Here’s The 411 On Being From 702 – Marc Jacobs, world renowned fashion designer, has created a signature shirt specifically for Las Vegas. “MJ702LV” is made from 100 percent cotton and features a limited edition graffiti design on the front of the shirt and MJ702LV on the back. The t-shirt is one hot item; customers from around the world seek out the Las Vegas location to purchase this unique shirt showcasing Sin City. Price: $28.

forum shops las vegas circular escalator

A Forum First: Spiral Escalator – Round and round and round the shoppers go. In 2004, The Forum Shops unveiled the 3-story, freestanding spiral escalator, becoming the first of its kind in the U.S. The escalator served as the centerpiece of the shopping venue’s phase III expansion. Mitsubishi designed the attraction exclusively for The Forum Shops. The escalator now moves thousands of shoppers daily.

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Click to view more photos of the circular escalators and the rest of Forum Shops Las Vegas

H&M To Open Largest U.S. Location – Hennes & Mauritz or H&M, the design-driven clothing retailer known for high fashion style and quality basics at affordable prices and the third largest fashion retailer in the world ,will open their largest store in the U.S. at nearly 60,000 square-feet and 3-levels, taking the space previously occupied by FAO Schwarz. This new flagship store will offer even more discerning shoppers in the Las Vegas area access to the latest trends and updated basics for ladies, men, young ladies and young men, including accessories. This location will also feature the H&M’s quality children’s collection. (Opening date: Fall 2010)

Forum Shops Fashion Forward Tips – Here’s your chance to add the perfect accessory this spring. Wardrobe essentials: Wedges, whether they’re leather, suede, patent leather, snakeskin, straw or cork, retailers such as Ferragamo, D&G and Michael Kors all have the perfect fit. Doctor bags are the new rage with leather, metal and canvas. DKNY, Tod’s and Louis Vuitton are just some of the stores needing an MD. Bangles are also back and stacked. Check out Anthropologie, Swarovski and Michael Kors to fill the wrists. Finally, prep for summer with new sunglasses, selecting neutral colors that compliment skin tone. Versace, Victoria’s Secret and Gucci are where your shades are waiting.

Station Casinos Turns Up The Heat With Free May House Entertainment – Station Casinos entertains locals with a number of new weekly acts and shows at several of its properties in addition to its trademark bands that the city has grown to love. New entertainment includes ’80s hair metal rockers, Hair Raid, taking the stage at Sunset Station every Friday and DJ Alpyne spinning tunes by the pool every Sunday afternoon at Aliante Station. Bonkerz Comedy Club at Palace Station welcomes back “America’s Got Talent” finalist Grandma Lee for the entire month of May. Most shows are free or will be noted below if they have a minimal cover charge.

Kick Off The Weekend With Wined Up Fridays At Terra Verde Inside Green Valley Ranch – Once the weekend starts, the wine starts flowing on the patio at Terra Verde Italian restaurant inside Green Valley Ranch. Patrons can now get their weekend started right with Wined Up Fridays, a new and delicious wine and appetizer event culminating in the ideal happy hour. Beginning Friday, April 30, patrons can sample “all-you-can-drink” featured wines while enjoying appetizers for only $20 every Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Now through the end of May, Wined Up Fridays will feature Italian and California wines by Ste. Michelle Winery, and over the course of the summer enjoy samplings from other wineries.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Zorro™ - with Victor H. Royer. When I was a little boy I remember TV and movie serials featuring the great Mask of Zorro – the hero who always won the day and rescued the fair maiden from the clutches of the terrible terror! And, as he was leaving, he would carve the Big Z into the hide of the villain! Ahh, what thrills they were in those days of youth!

Today, the legend lives on in a penny denomination video slot machine game from one of the most innovative companies in the world, Aristocrat. Originating in Australia, these innovative video games have begun to be called “Australian-style slots” in the industry. And for good reason. With innovations like this, it’s no wonder that they are popular with players everywhere, including here in the USA, and in the casinos of the Midwest. Even Las Vegas has many of these games, and the progressive hits very, very often. I have played this game myself, and it is truly great fun. Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

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Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Editors Note: The comments about the “girls to your room” cards has reached a crescendo both here and now in our local papers. We are printing a number of opinions.

Just want to add to the Reader’s email about the porn card handouts. I was intimidated the 1st time I encountered them myself but learned fast as you say “Just Ignore Them” and people shouldn’t feel like they have to say a word such as no thanks or get lost.

They aren’t doing it to aggravate or intimidate the public, they are only doing it for the monetary compensation what ever that may amount to.

Personally I think the whole thing could be cleaned up a little and still allow the porn card people to do their job. I think all the porn cards people throw on the ground after accepting them make for a pretty unsightly environment and just adds to the trashiness of the whole thing. I don’t know about others but to me seeing all the porn cards spread all over the streets make the porn hand outs appear more dirty and trashy than it would be if the streets were not cluttered with all the cards.

Has Las Vegas ever tried to pass an ordinance requiring a porn card hand out person to pick up any disposed material within a certain distance from where it’s handed out or to require the people who hire the hand out people to also hire people to do nothing but pick up the litter? It won’t solve the intimidation problem that the cards create but at least the overall appearance of it wouldn’t be so trashy and depressing to walk past.

As always , look forward to your newsletters.

RW Milaca from MN

Not all is as bad with the free strip handouts as your readers suggest. Last year I saw a group of 3 nice looking 20 something couples sitting in a circle. Each had a fistful of “sex” cards. The were playing “go Fish.” Brightened up my morning.

Tom Guesman, Ohio

My Wife and I have just spent the week of April 09 to 16 in your fine City. This was our 5th time in the last 3 years. I do not like to portray a negative imagine but their are some concerns that we experienced and would like to share them with you and your readers.

1. It did not matter where you went,the Strip or Fremont Street, the slots were very tight. Definitely no entertainment value for your money.

2. The prices on the strip are getting out of hand. Six Dollars for a Beer has become ridicules. Although hats off to Casino Royale, you can still get a Beer or a Margarita for a Dollar. They know how to pack the house.

3.It sure would be nice if some of the shuttle drivers could say Good morning or make you feel more welcome to your city upon arrival or departure.Some are good but their is a small percentage that make you feel like you are just a commodity to be used for their financial gain.

4.We went on a Bus side trip to Laughlin. Will not mention the Company or the details but the driver was totally unprofessional. As a result we canceled our trip to Primm with the same Company the following day. Also noticed the slots in Laughlin have tightened up also.

5.The Ace has speeded up traveling from the strip to Downtown, however there is still some confusion between the Ace and the Deuce routes amongst travelers. Hats off to the elderly gentlemen Security Guard on one of the Ace Buses. He went above and beyond the call of duty. He was polite and approachable. He went out of his way to welcome the riders and listen to their concerns. He even gave us a Verbal Tour and History lesson of your fine City as we traveled up and down the strip on the Ace. Now that is an Ambassador for your City.

6.There is one thing that really bothered me as we walked up and down the strip. It was the homeless or the panhandlers that were laying on the Pedestrian crossovers at numerous locations. I am looking at a City were the Casino Hotel complexes are worth Billions, were Money appears to be no object, but people are lying starving in the street. Can not the Civic Officials or owners of these extravagant complexes work together in helping these people in some manner?

All in all once again we greatly enjoyed our trip to Las Vegas and will definitely return. I do not know what the magic of this City is, but it keeps you coming back for more.

Thanks,

Brian from Canada

Ted Responds:

OK, we have some very positive developing news. Two of our County Commissioners (The Strip actually sits outside the city limits and is governed by the county) recently walked The Strip with various casino management and executives to view all of this first-hand.

They were extremely disheartened at how bad the situation is getting. They are going to be meeting and looking at every single option available as they are well aware of the negative impact and image it leaves our visitors with.

The ACLU has always strongly fought any removal or regulation of the “pornslappers” citing free speech. My understanding is that the ACLU will be involved in these meetings in order to help find a solution that works for everyone. We probably won’t see changes overnight, but movement on this is afoot. As always, we’ll keep you posted on all developments!

I’ve been a BIG fan of your newsletter since I started visiting Las Vegas 5 years ago. Its THE source for the most up-to-date information regarding anything Las Vegas! Any other copy-cat version of your website and newsletter would be like eating a cloned chicken (it may look like a real chicken.. but it don’t taste like one and it leaves a bad aftertaste in your mouth)!

Case in point about the value of your newsletter. If I did not read your article about Lance Burton leaving Monte Carlo in September, 2010 (after a long and prosperous 14 years) – I would’ve planned on seeing his show sometime next year. Since I’m coming soon, I immediately checked out his show times and booked a show! I would’ve completely missed out on seeing him (for the first time) if it were not for your up-to-date newsletter.

I’ve always found your newsletter to be helpful in a variety of ways for each of my trips to Las Vegas. Keep up the excellent work!

Thanks again.

Patrick from Apalachin, New York

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:

  • 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)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year February 3
  • Super Bowl Sunday February 6
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • Mardi Gras March 8
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 24
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 8

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