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Archive for October, 2011

October 26, 2011

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 26, 2011

October 26th 2011 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
Featured Shows

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

Ted has taken time off this past week to spend time with visiting family and to celebrate his 46′th birthday. His column and Members Mania will return next week.

You can read his recent blog post Jimmy Buffett Margaritaville Casino Las Vegas – Winner, Winner. Chicken Dinner which includes multiple photos of the new gaming area at The Flamingo.

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff.

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

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

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Chocolate Witch on Display at Bellagio for Halloween – Handcrafted Showpiece Debuts at Jean Philippe Patisserie – The supremely talented pastry staff at Jean Philippe Pâtisserie at Bellagio (click link to book) has unveiled a chocolate masterpiece just in time for Halloween. A chocolate witch soars high above the pastry shop on her broom while holding a pumpkin and keeping a close eye on passersby.

The chefs began designing and constructing the witch in June, utilizing nearly 60 pounds of chocolate and 30 pounds of fondant to help her take flight. The pastry team also created 11 different sweet treats, sure to please any ghost or goblin.

Michael Jackson Fan Fest Showcases Never-Before-Seen Memorabilia and Interactive Fan Experiences for a Limited Time in Las Vegas – Exhibit Opens December 3-14 Alongside December Las Vegas Debut of ”THE IMMORTAL World Tour” – Walk through the storied gates of Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, then view his personal book collection in a study filled with his actual furniture. Peek inside the interior of the 1999 Rolls-Royce Seraph limousine Michael designed himself with 24-karat gold embellishments, then check out the 10-foot-tall statue created for the HIStory tour.

Tito Ortiz, Arianny Celeste, Frankie Edgar And Other MMA Stars Visit Las Vegas Fight Shop Oct. 28-29 – MMA stars Arianny Celeste, Miesha Tate, Natalie Skyy, Frankie ‘The Answer’ Edgar and Tito Ortiz visit Las Vegas Fight Shop inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for a series of meet and greets Oct. 28 and 29.

Las Vegas Restaurant Guy Savoy Acquires Enormous 1.16-pound White Truffle – Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace (click link to book) acquired a 1.16-pounds white truffle from Urbani Truffles. This enormous truffle was picked by a 15 year-old-boy, Luigi, who was in training with his father, Francesco. The truffle was found by Luigi’s dog Coco, a hound dog mix breed. It was found in the morning on Monday, Oct. 17 next to a hazel tree in Piedmont, Italy. The cost of the truffle was between $5,000 and $7,000 and is estimated to be able to make 100 white truffle risotto dishes. Photo Credit: Scott Roeben

Singer and Songwriter Frankie Moreno On His Way Up at Stratosphere – New Headliner Begins November 9, 2011 – The Stratosphere Casino Hotel & Tower is proud to announce the signing of singer and songwriter Frankie Moreno as its new headline act in Stratosphere Theater beginning Wednesday, November 9, 2011. Moreno’s ten-piece band will perform three nights a week.

Shark Reef Aquarium’s Haunted Reef at Mandalay Bay Brings Thrills and Chills on October 29 – Blood donors and children in costume receive free admission – Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (click link to book) will eerily transform into Haunted Reef on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Costumed children 12 and under will receive complimentary access and sugary sweets.

Grand Canyon South Rim Bus TourGrand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour – Words and even pictures cannot fully describe this stunning gift of nature. Tour the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in comfortably appointed deluxe touring coaches. This 1-day Grand Canyon bus tour departs Las Vegas at 7:30am for a full day of sightseeing. The driver/guides will entertain and inform you as you travel to the Grand Canyon National Park. The tour makes a stop at the Hoover Dam and Kingman, Arizona on it’s way to the Grand Canyon National Park, arriving around 11:45 AM for your wonderful buffet lunch which is sure to leave you with a full stomach and a more in depth knowledge of this fascinating area. Once inside the canyon, the tour will stop at popular viewing areas, Mather Pt., Yavapai, and the Bright Angel Lodge. All the stops provide time for exploring and photographing. On the return trip to Las Vegas, a stop will be made in Williams, Arizona

Click To Book Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour Now!

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

  • Terry Fator – Terry Fator won Season 2 of America’s Got Talent. Shortly after that, he was signed to a 5 year deal to headline at the Mirage with his cast of thousands. He brings his puppets to life with songs, impressions and comedy for all ages. Now that he calls Las Vegas home, this funny man does more than just make people laugh… he also spends his spare time giving back to our community.
    Book Now and Save: Terry Fator
  • Golf Course Offers Look Into Las Vegas’ Colorful Past – The old Stardust Country Club was the home of entertainers, mobsters, the Rat Pack, and big-name PGA tournaments. Now Las Vegas National Golf Club, relive this Las Vegas courses storied history.
  • Rising Lake Mead Brings Challenges – For the first time in years, the water level at Lake Mead is rising, and not just by a little bit. Just a year ago, Lake Mead hit its lowest water level since 1956. Fast-forward one year and the water level is up nearly 30 feet. Read more…
  • Valley of Fire Wedding – See the stunning scenery just out outside Las Vegas as we peek into photos from this wedding at the stunning Valley Of Fire northwest of Las Vegas. Transportation to this beautiful, remote spot was by Maverick Helicopter. To experience a special event (wedding or other celebration at locations such as the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Valley Of Fire or other remote scenic spots, call Maverick at 888-877-2978. Tell them Access Vegas sent you for extra special treatment!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Members Mania will return next week when Ted returns.

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Comments(0)

October 19, 2011

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 19, 2011

October 19th 2011 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
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! I have my parents flying in from Portland, Oregon to enjoy some warmth and sunshine. Our overnight low is right around their afternoon high temperature. Our forcast is sunshine, theirs is rain. Every summer I tell those of you in cooler regions to plan a fall trip to Las Vegas to “extend” your summer. I’m sure some of you are wishing you had taken my advice right about now!

Two Great Complimentary Shows – Sometimes we get so used to some of the regular, complimentary things to see and do that we overlook the fact that our readership is growing and Las Vegas always has first-timers! Hence, a couple of long-running performers worth seeing on your next visit:

Big Elvis – Big Elvis performs all the hits of the King of Rock & Roll, as well as other popular tunes in the genres of rock, country, gospel, R&B and pop spanning six decades of music. He interacts with his audience, invites them to participate in his show and performs requests, including both popular and obscure songs.

Showtimes: Monday through Friday; 3, 5 and 6:30 p.m. in Bill’s Lounge. Pricing: Complimentary.

Cook E. Jarr – Cook E. Jarr’s show is a mixture of booming, booty-shaking music and plentiful patter from the motor mouth musician, punctuated by the Cookster’s dog barks, imitation engine-revving (which comes in handy during ‘Born to Be Wild’) and other trademark sound effects. While Jarr sings along to pre-recorded tracks of funky hits old and new, red and blue lights revolve, police car style atop speakers pumping out a nonstop beat. A strobe light fires up at random intervals, while a mirrored disco ball twirls overhead.

I’ve seen Cook E. Jarr since his days at The Continental (now Terribles) in the early 90′s and he’s still putting on a great show.

Showtimes: Saturday and Sunday; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Bill’s Lounge Pricing: Complimentary.

Daylife Comes Indoors – For better or worse, Las Vegas has become infamous for the plethora of pool parties (known as daylife… a take on nightlife). While we’re still having great weather, our fair city is not warm and sunny all year long. (Sunny, yes but the average high temperature in December and January is a very chilly — for us — 57 degrees and you can’t even fake a pool party in that kind of weather). Both Ghostbar at The Palms and Lavo at Palazzo are going to attempt to bring the beach indoors. Lavo with their Saturday Champaign brunch (think bikini brunch) and Ghostbar with a champaign-fueled all-afternoon party.

Vegas SportsDay – Las Vegas is the sports betting capital of the world. Even before moving here (nearly 20 years ago), I remember syndicated sports betting shows on TV Saturdays and Sundays with screaming “wise guys” trying to sell their “lock of the year” sports picks. Fortunately for me, the Las Vegas based Stardust Line radio show reached my hometown of Portland, OR (because of the night signal strength of KDWN 720 AM) and I continued to listen once I moved here. This was a no-nonsense sports wagering show hosted by professionals who knew their stuff.

Unfortunately for me, the show ended when the blew up The Stardust. Fortunately for myself and all of us who enjoy sports wagering action, two former Stardust Line co-hosts Dave Malinsky and Ted Sevransky have launched a similar new daily show which airs live at 11 AM Pacific weekdays and is also available for archived viewing and on iTunes. More info at Vegas SportsDay home page.

Unemployment And Foreclosures Still Bad News – As I predicted a few months ago, home foreclosures in Las Vegas are way up again. While some of it is attributed to the “robo signing” (real estate stuff that we won’t delve into), one can’t overlook workers in the construction industry who have lost their jobs since the end of the boom. (I’ve heard estimates ranging from 40,000 to 100,000). CityCenter is done, Cosmopolitan is up, the new performing arts center is wrapping up, and the new Las Vegas City Hall is moving right along. Although Project Linq (the outdoor plaza between Imperial Palace and Flamingo) will provide employment, it won’t put a dent in construction jobs.

Meanwhile, Las Vegas unemployment is on the rise again to over 14%. Why don’t people (especially those in construction) leave town for work? They are “underwater” on their home and simply can’t sell it and make up the difference. Which is eventually going to lead to even more forelclosures as people give up and walk away to start over elsewhere. Optamists are saying that the market will bottom out and start to recover in 2012. I’m saying maybe spring of 2013.

We cover this type of news because of a strong demand among our readers for Las Vegas real estate information. For those of you who are seriously looking at buying here, something very important to keep in mind: The homes are historically cheap, but (as someone who is in the market), I’ve rarely come across a house that didn’t need some real work done to it.

Worst case are homes that were basically stripped and/or beaten up (missing or broken cabinents, etc.) But at the very least, people who are out of work and struggling to make ends meet generally don’t maintain their homes. So expect to find everything from old carpet to badly neglected landscape to roofing issues. Me? I’m actually looking at that as a positive. I’m going to buy a beat-up place and then put the exact touches (choice of flooring, landscaping, appliances) that I want into it.

Limos Are Back – We’re started running advertising for airport limos again to a really nice response. (Click on the link below). Over the years, we’ve recieved great feedback from people who have taken this option. You skip the taxi lines, you have a driver waiting for you, it is much more affordible than many people imagine, and you just look so cool pulling up to your hotel with a driver.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

MGM Grand Unveils New Guest Room and Suite Designs – Remodel Begins, First Rooms Complete by Late November – Recognized worldwide as the ultimate Las Vegas entertainment destination, MGM Grand today revealed designs for its new rooms and suites.

Underway this week, the $160 million remodel includes all 3,570 guest rooms and 642 suites in the hotel’s main tower and is expected to conclude by September 2012. The initial set of redesigned rooms will be complete by the end of November 2011.

”Our new rooms complement MGM Grand’s incredible collection of accommodations,” said Scott Sibella, president and COO for MGM Grand. ”This is one of many exciting announcements on the horizon, all of which will solidify MGM Grand’s position not only as an entertainment destination, but as a premier hospitality experience.”

Hyde Lounge Bellagio – First Look – Hyde Lounge Bellagio is the first nightlife venture in Las Vegas by renowned hospitality leader sbe and visionary design icon Philippe Starck with Gulla Jonsdottir of G+ Design. Boasting a seamless 12,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor space and floor-to-ceiling windows, Hyde features an expansive terrace that showcases Las Vegas’ most celebrated landmark, the Fountains of Bellagio.

McFadden’s Hosts A Game Watch For Pivitoal Big Ten Football Game Saturday, Oct. 29 – Watch the Buckeyes Take on the Badgers at the Official 2011 Ohio State Football Bar – A sea of red will flood the high-definition TVs as McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino hosts a viewing party for the Ohio State vs. Wisconsin game on Saturday, Oct. 29. The powerhouse programs, both wearing red, are knee-deep in the conference schedule as they look to push ahead of each other in the standings. An hour prior to kickoff, the party bar will become the pregame place to be as all Ohio State fans enjoy 25 cent Coors Light drafts. Throughout the game, guests will knock back $5 mimosas, bloody Marys and Buckeye Bombs as they watch every pass, play and tackle. Additional Buckeye specials will be available. Click link below for more details.

Fantasy Las Vegas Announces November Showgirl Of The Month Kristin – Kristin, a gorgeous dancer with an edge, is FANTASY’s (click link to book) November ”Showgirl of the Month.” The sexy adult revue at Luxor Hotel and Casino celebrates a dancer each month. Kristin is a Wisconsin native who loves to paint and travel. When this bombshell isn’t dancing, she enjoys catching up on her favorite television shows and eating sushi. This bella ragazza also has a strong affection for Venice, Italy. Las Vegas locals can catch Kristin hanging out with friends at her favorite local hot spot Artisan Hotel Boutique.

Hoover Dam Tour from Las VegasHoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas – Your trip to Las Vegas won’t be complete without a tour of the mighty Hoover Dam! Built during the Depression, thousands of men came to Black Canyon to tame the Colorado River, and it took them less than 5 years to build the largest dam of its time.

Click To Book Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas Now!

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

  • Video – Spago Las Vegas American Restarant at Caesars Palace – We live in special city… where some of the most talented Chefs in the world call home. Mix all of that talent with fresh fruits and vegetables from our local farmers… and you have a recipe for the finest cuisine on earth. That’s what is happening over at Spago, in the Forum Shops at Caesars, as Chef Eric showed us when we spent the day with him.
  • Jimmy Buffett and Record-Breaking Margarita at Flamingo Vegas – The record for the World’s Biggest Margarita is broken, Oct. 13, 2011. Singer Jimmy Buffett was on-hand at Flamingo Las Vegas for the celebration and to mark the opening of the first Margaritaville Casino.
  • New Michael Jackson ‘King of Pop’ Slot Machine – Gambling author and casino expert, Steve Bourie, takes a look at the new Michael Jackson ”King of Pop” slot machine from Bally Technologies which was introduced at the October 2011 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. It is a one-cent, wide area progressive, slot machine that is expected to start arriving in casinos by mid-2012.
  • Gaming Regulators Approve Sports Betting Smart Phone App – The control room at American Wagering is sportsbook central. All bets are managed there, whether they come from Leroy’s Sportsbooks, a kiosk at PT’s Pub or now an iPhone. ”You now have a legal sports betting app that can be used here in the state of Nevada,” said American Wagering Senior Vice President John English. English’s company has released the nation’s first mobile sports betting app on the iPhone. Read more

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I just turned 50 in September. I am planning a trip to Vegas in December. I know there are alot casinos with 50 plus clubs. Can you please let me know which ones and what they offer. I know alot of them are off the strip, that’s fine we always rent a car.

Thank you

Cathy P. from Chicago, IL

Ted Responds:

Wish I had better news for you, but the dearth of live entertainment resulting from hotel budget cutbacks hasn’t left much out there. Especially aimed at the 50+ crowd (which is upwards of half Vegas visitors, so go figure). Chris Phillips of Zowie Bowie was doing a “Vintage Vegas” show at Green Valley ranch ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15E8brNiCRg and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlbf8aWrFG0 ), but even that wasn’t a nightlife experience.

A best kept secret you may wish to check out: Just about every Monday evening, The Bootlegger (a Las Vegas institution with upscale Italian dining around the clock) hosts karaoke starting at 9 PM. Yawn… so what? This isn’t your average karaoke. Hosted by Kelly Clinton (wife of long-time Harrah’s headliner Clint Holmes), many of the stars of Las Vegas shows stop by. Some to sing, some to just hang out. It has a true “old Vegas” feel and people in your (and my) age range will be very commfortable. Oh, and did I mention the band is LIVE?!?

The Bootlegger is located on Las Vegas Blvd. (The Strip) just 4.5 miles south of Bellagio at 7700 Las Vegas Blvd, So. I’d call ahead to confirm the event and ask if you need reservations, any questions regarding enjoying a late dinner, etc. at (702) 736-4939

Hope this helps!

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

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

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Comments(0)

October 12, 2011

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 12, 2011

October 12th 2011 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
Featured Shows

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

Hello From Las Vegas! – Our cold snap is over, and temps are comfortably back in the 80′s where they belong. Lots to get to, so we’ll dig right in this week.

Numbers Continue To Climb – You must be buying something on your visits! Local taxable sales are up double digits with clothing/accessories (shopping) and food/beverage (eating and boozing) leading the way. Airline passenger counts are up as well, and we’ve previously noted that we’re on pace to tie the record of 39.2 million visitors who visited in 2007. Funny how the national (and international) media was so quick to dig our grave just a couple short years ago, but are so mum about the recovery of our visitor industry. Na-na-na-na-na!

I’ll Take A Mulligan – I pride myself on being a pretty good prognosticator on all things Vegas. In the early 2000′s I said that downtown would “pop” within 10 years what a change we’ve seen (Fremont East, high-rise living, revitalized neighborhoods, refurbished hotels and more). I called the bust at times when real estate prices were an unsustainable joke. (Did everybody think that home prices were going to rise forever here)? When the stalled/failed Echelon project was announced (the one which they blew up the Stardust for), I immidiatly questioned the viability of it on my (then) podcast.

But… I goofed about Nikki Beach/Club at The Tropicana, which has just been taken over by the hotel due to lack of bottom-line (financial) performance. I was very aware of the Nikki brank, and global group of daylife/nightlife locations which feature a cool vibe, relaxed atmosphere, and good food/drink. Oh, and you don’t feel out-of-place if you are over 30.

I’m taking the mulligan because that is NOT what the Las Vegas Nikki location did. Instead, they jumped in to the “big celebrity” fray played by most of the other clubs in town. You pay big-name celebrities to show up, hoping that crowds and publicity will follow. Evidently, this gamble failed to pay off. We’ll see if Tropicana (minus the Nikki brand name) goes back to a more traditional “Nikki” style of club. Let’s hope so. The rest of us need somewhere to enjoy!

Monorail Out Of Bankruptcy – The Las Vegas Monorail has evidently shed enough bondholder debt to exit bankruptcy. However, don’t hold your breath on the long-term future of the ride. In a few years, the line faces major overhaul maintenance costs that it simply does not have the money for. The only hope for the line is an extension to the airport, and the Las Vegas economy would most likely have to return to a sizzle to get enough new investors to risk betting on that.

So why doesn’t the local government wrangle control of the line and build the extension? The taxi and limo companies here in Las Vegas are very, very politically connected. Heaven forbid you could take a quick, inexpensive ride from the airport to The Strip. No, you have to wait in cab lines, hope the cabbie does not take you the long route, and listen to him act like he’s the most knowlegable man in Las Vegas in order to pump up his tip. Side Note: If you read this newsletter, you are more knowledeable about Las Vegas than about 95% of the cab drivers out there. Speaking of…

You Don’t Say… – It turns out that a 2000 study by The Las Vegas Sands (Venetian, Sands Convention Center and [now] Palazzo) basically said that the monorial was going to be a flop. Las Vegas sands was eveidently not a big fan of the project (it bypassed both The Venetian and their convention center) and thus the report was dismissed as sour grapes. Now that the report has turned out to be accurtate, angry monorial investors have filed a lawsuit regarding the fact that the report wasn’t presented when they were given investment information.

Sahara Rumblings – The owners of The Sahara evidently used the money from the sale of all the stuff (they basically stripped the place to the bare walls) to buy the debt on the property. Think of it as selling everything in your home to pay off the mortgage. And, we’re still hearing some talk of them wanting to keep with their plan to turn it into a boutique hotel. (No indication whether that means blowing the place up or retrofitting it Tropicana/Plaza style).

I’m at a loss as how this is going to work. The owner Sam Nazarian is a pretty young guy (in his 30′s) who made his fortune in trendy nightclubs. I get it. Honestly, he was probably embarassed to tell people that he owned The Sahara. He’d like to own one of the “cool” places in Las Vegas. But he can wish all he wants. I’m just not seeing any way an upscale/boutique property will work at that location. At least not until Fountainblu is finished and the north end of The Strip regains enough momentum to shake it’s decidedly “Circus Circus” image.

P.S. Reasonably serious rumors are surfacing that Fountainblu might be torn down and sold for scrap. If that happens and Echelon (former Stardust) continues to sit idle, look for the North Strip woes to continue for years.

Live On The Air – As noted last issue, we’ve started my new call-in segment on the Vegas Video Network Living In Las Vegas show! Doing a full-fledged Las Vegas podcast (like many of you remember me doing) is not yet in the cards so I jumped at the invitation to appear.

On the mose recent episode, I discussed the opening of the new Margaritaville Casino, the street party they are holding the next two Saturdays (in conjunction with the Jimmy Buffet concerts of the 15′th and 22′nd), Las Vegas hotel occupancy and prices, and noted a strip hotel that is bucking the DJ and Jersey Shore crowd trend and actually appealing to the traditional Las Vegas visitor.

You can catch my segment on the most recent Living In Las Vegas (click to go to the show page, then click on show #127). I’m in the final segment of the show.

Send Us Your Trip Reports And Win – We always enjoy hearing about your visits. From now on, if you submit a trip report (include some photos if you took any) to us at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com and we use it in the newsletter, we’ll comp you a one year subscription next year. In order to achieve proper staffing and to avoid the ups-and-downs of show openings and closings (which mean ups and downs in advertising revenue), we will be going to a modest subscription model in early 2012.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

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

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Celebrate National Seafood Month at ARIA Restaurants – Mina, Jean Georges Steakhouse, Sage and Sirio Ristorante have created exceptional seasonal menus blending farm-fresh ingredients with seafood such as lobster, scallops and fish. Each highlights the best of fall’s culinary trends and the sea’s exquisite offerings. Click the story for all the details.

Blonde Bombshell Holly Madison Signs Multi-Million Dollar Extension In Peepshow At Planet Hollywood – Las Vegas‘ mega-hit striptease spectacular, PEEPSHOW (click link to book) at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is proud to announce that blonde starlet, business entrepreneur and Miss Las Vegas, Holly Madison recently signed a multi-million dollar extension contract to remain in the spotlight as ”Bo Peep” in PEEPSHOW throughout 2012. Recently named ”Favorite Local Celebrity” in the 30th annual Las Vegas Review-Journal’s ”Best-Of” awards, Madison will continue to charm and captivate critics and audiences alike performing her playful, yet sexy modern-day showgirl role. Tickets for performances through spring of 2012 will go on sale beginning October 10, 2011.

America’s Got Talent is Coming to LAS VEGAS!! – The ‘America’s Got Talent’ auditions are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for performers across the country to showcase their talents in 90 seconds to series’ producers in the hopes of being able to take the stage in front of the judges. Every type of performer is welcome – including musicians, dance crews, magicians, contortionists, comedians, singers, jugglers, animal acts and everything in between – all of whom want to perform for America’s votes and the coveted $1 million prize.

Omega Watches U.S. And Tourbillon Present Speedmaster Forum Exhibit Featuring Gemini And Apollo Astronauts At Crystals At Citycenter – Astronauts from the landmark Gemini and Apollo NASA programs will join OMEGA and TOURBILLON at Crystals at CityCenter to celebrate an exhibit featuring rare artifacts from the iconic space missions.

Celebrate National Magic Week at ILLUSIONS Starring Jan Rouven – Mention ‘National Magic Week’ at the FAME Theater Box Office to Receive $15 off Ticket Price October 25-31 – Master Illusionist Jan Rouven is inviting guests to celebrate National Magic Week with a $15 discount on all tickets to his show ILLUSIONS (click link to book) at the Clarion Hotel & Casino. Simply mention ‘National Magic Week’ at the FAME Theater Box Office October 25-31 and receive the discount.

Canyon Dream Air and Land TourCanyon Dream Air and Land Tour – A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour  Now!

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

  • Wynn Golf Club and Jazz Brunch – It’s no secret that when Steve Wynn builds a property, he does not hold back. We saw this first hand when we spent the day playing in the beautiful backyard of Wynn Las Vegas, which happens to be an 18 – Hole golf course that looks more like something you would find in the foothills of North Carolina than in the middle of the desert. Our recommendation, plan a day that includes Sunday brunch.
  • 1994 Las Vegas compared to 2008 – Some of the things that have changed from 1994 to December 2008. And still more development is on the way! Features Luxor boat ride and the MGM Grand Adventures amusement park.
  • Jimmy Buffett Pre Concert Party at MGM Las Vegas Parrotheads – With the grand opening of the Margaritaville Casino and Jimmy Buffet’s two annual concerts just around the corner, enjoy one of the past official pre-concert parties. This year, Buffett plays the 15′th and 22′nd of October and the all-day pre-concert party is scheduled to begin at 11 AM (both dates) outside of the Margaritaville restaurant area.
  • Bellagio Grand Opening Preview of Mandalay Bay – Looking back in time to opening night of The Bellagio with looks ahead to the opening of Mandalay Bay.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Is it just me, or does it seem there is a increase in the panhandlers on the walkways over the strip? We were in Vegas in September, and in some cases there were up to three people on each over pass with signs that said Pregnant And Stranded With Puppy, Homeless Vet, Why Lie I need Beer, and one that said Have Cancer No Medical Insurance To Pay For Chemotherapy.

Also there are numerous men outside the Flamingo Casino and Bally’s, wearing white shirts with shoulder flashes that say they are Missionaries, and are collecting money to feed the homeless.They are right in your face as you come off the escalators or when you are leaving the casino, and hold out their buckets for you to feed.

Then after all that, you have to put up with all the card flickers that the city can’t get rid of. I am sorry if I sound like a bad person,and just a complainer who won’t help the down and out,but it has become rather annoying to have to put up with this each time you go for a walk.

Donald M. Gariepy

Ted Responds:

You are correct, all of this activity has flourished over the past couple of years. I spoke with a contact close to Metro (Las Vegas police) who works regularly on the Las Vegas Strip who gave his personal opinion/input:

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  • First, the homeless. As long as they are on the side of the overpasses, not in the way, and not aggressive, they are usually left alone. Next, the missionaries. Since they are collecting for charity, and I believe it is a real charity, they are left alone. I also have heard complaints about them, but unless they are outrageous in their actions, they too are ignored.
  • The pornslappers are a real issue, and my personal opinion is that since Metro got spanked in court, for now, it’s hands off. The street performers are another issue, and as long as they do not cause trouble, they are left alone. The time share folks are tolerated, as they are somewhat employed, and identified.
  • Now for the biggie: The water sellers. They are targeted, quite often, by Metro. When caught, they are arrested, ticketed and their stuff either confiscated or dumped. They have a huge network of lookouts, sometimes two and three deep in each location.
  • In total, the sidewalks are overcrowded with all of the above. I have found, walking along the strip, both alone (out of uniform) and with my wife, most of the time if you don’t make eye contact, and just keep walking, they will move out of the way. Kind of a New York stride. There is talk between Clark County, Metro & the casinos about doing more, but nothing has been passed down thru channels, that I have heard.

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I’ll add my own personal two cents in:

I regularly give to charity including the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. So when I get agressively panhandled, I tell them that and they shut up. Nothing wrong with telling them that you already donate to charity where you live. As we’ve discussed before, the ACLU worked to uphold the “rights” of the pornslappers. I also have success doing what our source said to do: Simply don’t make eye contact.

Unfortunately, neither our county commissioners nor the upper-level casino executives actually walk The Strip like a tourist. There is a huge disconnect between them and visitors (including the amount of time the escalators on the crossovers are out-of-service) and it is a travesty. It is impacting the visitor experience.

We just returned from Vegas (I LOVE it there) anyway we stayed downtown at the Nugget (first time downtown) we have visited there before but never stayed. Anyway we loved it the casinos are close you feel safe, and I do believe the slots are looser, more loose, whatever.

I did go to the strip one day wile my wife was in a seminar/class but for the most part our time was spent downtown. I recommend it!

And again I will say we always look forward to you news letter!

Larry & Norma Henry from Oregon

 

Ted Responds:

Downtown isn’t for everyone, but I enjoy it for the reasons you mentioned. Besides looser games and cheaper food/drink, I really like the ability to casino-hop. If your luck isn’t so good at one place, you just walk across the street. No question that the Nugget is the class of downtown, but improvements at The Plaza and El Cortez are certainly signs that downtown is improving and upgrading.

Don’t get me wrong: If you only stay at Encore, Palazzo, Aria and similar, downtown properties generally won’t be your speed. But given the amount of feedback from people who miss the “Old Vegas”, all I can do is point them do downtown. Let’s not forget that in its final years, The Sands was a run-down second rate joint that had dollar blackjack and dollar beers. I’m not denigrating the memory. I was there when they closed, being one of a few placing final bets in honor of the property. But many of the downtown properties are now in better shape than last years of The Sands.

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