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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Running late this week. I lost some time to a some due to unexpected home repairs — the price one pays for choosing to live in one of Las Vegas’ more vintage neighborhoods — so let’s jump right into things:

Corrections – We don’t goof often but last issue had a couple of errors:

• Wrong Link – Deal Alert! Three Great Strip Attractions For Just $54 was incorrectly linked last issue. This link is correct.
• I noted that Nevada unemployment was at 4.2%. Obviously a typo. 14.2% is the correct figure.

Moving To Las Vegas – I want to highlight a couple of posts in this week’s Members Mania section further down the newsletter:

• Moving To Las Vegas – Where Should I Live? – I gave probably my most in-depth and certainly most recent treatise on moving here. Where to buy, where not to buy, how to not have a real estate agent steer you the wrong way (and how to find a decent one), and the latest tips for house-hunting online so you can have most of the homework done before you get here.I published it in our What’s Hot (subscribe)feed last week and we already have a lively discussion going on in the comments section. If you are just dreaming of moving here, getting serious about it, or (especially) if you live here and want to add your own two cents, I consider this a must-read. All comments (even those who don’t agree with me) are encouraged.
• Retired And Thinking About Moving To Las Vegas, Senior Housing Questions? – I’m still about 20 years from hitting the senior mark, but I know we have a significant contingent of local seniors who are readers. Any help you can give by reading the post and entering comments below it would be incredibly welcome and appreciated!

Betty In The Sky With A Suitcase – Although not so much Vegas-related, one of my favorite podcasts is called Betty In The Sky With A Suitcase. Betty is a flight attendant for a major commercial carrier. She takes her recorder along with her and collects funny/interesting stories about the world of airline travel from pilots, other stewardesses (she’s totally cool with that term) and sometimes passengers. Info:

• Betty In The Sky Podcast
• Betty In The Sky Book

Arizona Style Immigration Law In Nevada? – A recent Review-Journal poll showed that 57% of Nevadans favor enacting the same kind of law that stirred up so much controversy in Arizona (11% were undecided). No move is afoot at present, and the Nevada legislature doesn’t meet until next year.

Closely watched will be the effect (if any) on Arizona tourism. There would definitely be less will to pass/enforce the law here during the current economic climate if it ends up hurting Arizona travel. Having said that, the full enforcement of Arizona’s law won’t be known until it gets worked through the courts. Going to be a while…

This Newsletter Is Helpware – OK, every once in a while, I call for you to step up to the plate. We’re able to keep this newsletter complimentary because we have enough subscribers to be able to attract quality advertisers. There’s so much more we could be doing. Things like a full-time shows/events writer. Sending photographers to more events. Being more responsive with our Facebook and Twitter pages so you could get better, more instant responses to Vegas questions. And more.

You’ve heard of software and freeware (software at no charge). Consider our newsletter “helpware”. You help promote it, and we can help deliver a better product. Plus, it is the least we could ask since we don’t charge (other similar Las Vegas information sites and publications do).

We know that many (and I mean many, many, many) of you read and participate on various Las Vegas blogs, forums, message boards, email groups and/or just flat out know plenty of friends and associates who visit (or are thinking of visiting) Las Vegas. Please take just a few minutes out of your life to help spread the word.

• Mention the newsletter in forums you participate on — people can subscribe at the very top of AccessVegas.com and always at no cost.
• Give us a mention in your blog (even if it isn’t a Vegas blog). Your readers want to know what your interests are once in a while. Kind of like my shout-out to the Betty podcast this issue.
• Email the www.AccessVegas.com web address to friends and encourage them to subscribe (top of our main page).
• If someone in the office is headed here, email them with it or write it down for them. (Trust me, they’ll otherwise forget it and end up at accesslasvegas.com — not ours — or some other scam Vegas site because they remember it wrong).

Hey, it’s the least you can do, and you’ll be helping assure that we can continue to deliver good, complimentary, high-quality content well into the future.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO, Manging Editor
AccessVegas.com

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

• Full story/details/info: The Dukes Of September Rhythm Revue Coming To Las Vegas
• Buy Tickets Now: Donald Fagen, Michael McDonald, & Boz Scaggs Las Vegas Tickets
• Other Cities: Donald Fagen, Michael McDonald, & Boz Scaggs Tickets

Suncoast Las Vegas Welcomes History’s Pawn Stars For A Gold & Silver Road Show – Unique opportunity to meet the stars of HISTORY’s hit television series and have collectables and antiques appraised and possibly purchased. Suncoast Hotel and Casino welcomes Rick Harrison, Corey Harrison and Chumlee, stars of HISTORY’s smash hit Pawn Stars, for a Gold & Silver Road Show on Saturday, August 7.

• Full story/details/info: History’s Pawn Stars At Suncoast

Rockhouse Las Vegas Adds Bar Food To Its Ultra Dive Bar Lineup – Rockhouse Bar & Nightclub, the only ultra-dive bar on the Las Vegas Strip, has introduced a delicious ultra-dive bar menu. Now Rockhouse revelers can sober up with mouthwatering grub after a game of beer pong or take a break from the dance floor to chow down on some chimichangas.

• Full story/details/info: Rockhouse Las Vegas Bar Food

It’s Sugar Opens At New York-New York – New York-New York has sweetened up The Strip and is inviting visitors to enjoy a whimsical world of candy creations at Las Vegas’ newest candy stop, IT’SUGAR. IT’SUGAR offers a tantalizing array of premium candies, chocolates and novelty gift items. The kiosk, located on the Mezzanine level, also features a one-of-a-kind Statue of Liberty sculpture created from thousands of colorful Jelly Bellies. Soaring eight-feet-tall, the super sweet Lady Liberty welcomes guests to a playful candy experience like none other.

The Venetian And The Palazzo Las Vegas Welcome The Third Annual Carnival of Cuisine Event – The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas welcome the return of the hottest culinary event this summer with their third annual food festival, Carnival of Cuisine. The event will take place Saturday, August 7 from 1pm-4pm in The Venetian Ballroom and showcases award-winning cuisine available exclusively at restaurants of The Venetian and The Palazzo.

• Full story/details/info: The Venetian And The Palazzo Carnival of Cuisine Event

Buffalo Bill’s Gets Beefy With Its Big Azz Burger – Available at Buffalo Bill’s Wagon Master Coffee Shop and Social Beans Cafe, flavorful burgers are served in grand sizes for low prices. For $9.99, diners may enjoy the Big Azz Burger (1 ½ pounds), the Half Azz Burger (1/2 pound) for $5.99 or the Cheap Azz Burger (1/4 pound) for $3.99.

• Full story/details/info: Buffalo Bill’s Gets Beefy With Its Big Azz Burger

Panevino Ristorante Las Vegas Introduces Ladies Night and Happy Hour – Panevino Ristorante invites guests to unwind and relax in their newly remodeled, stylishly, chic bar & lounge. The Italian destination restaurant, located one block east of Las Vegas Boulevard on Sunset Road, recently launched a special Ladies Night exclusive in the bar & lounge every Friday night in addition to happy hour specials throughout the week.

• Full story/details/info: Panevino Ristorante Ladies Night and Happy Hour

First Food & Bar Las Vegas Debuts Happy Hour Plus Summertime Lunch And Dinner Menus – The high energy of the city is wrapped up in amazing eats and drinks in this hip restaurant and bar that allows guests to keep an eye on all the action with amazing views of The Strip. Chef Sam “Sammy D” DeMarco keeps foodies and those in-the-know coming back week after week with his seasonal, creative takes on classic dishes.

• Full story/details/info: First Food & Bar Las Vegas Debuts Happy Hour

Primm Valley Casino Resorts’ Summer Golf Package Scores A hole In One with Spa–Goers – From now until Tue., Aug. 31, locals can receive a complimentary 60–minute spa treatment at The Spa at Primm when they book Primm Valley Casino Resorts’ all-encompassing summer golf package. The $59 golf package includes a day of golf at the Tom Fazio-designed Desert or Lakes Golf Courses and a one night stay at Primm Valley Resort & Casino or Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino.

• Primm Valley Casino Resorts’ Summer Golf Package Scores A hole In One with Spa–Goers

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Maverick River Rafting Tour – Helicopter And Rafting Combo Adventure – One of the most amazing ways to experience the Grand Canyon is with a helicopter landing tour and the added bonus of river rafting through the scenic Black Canyon on the Colorado River. Start your tour with a helicopter adventure through the Grand Canyon and see it’s awe-inspiring scenery. Following the helicopter tour, you will head out with the rafting crew on a departure from the base of Hoover Dam and float 12 miles down the grand Colorado River.

Click To Book Maverick River Rafting Tour – Helicopter And Rafting Combo Adventure Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• Retired And Thinking About Moving To Las Vegas, Senior Housing Questions?
• Just Returned From Las Vegas: $20 Trick Worked, Loved Viva Elvis, Too Many Kids
• Coming To Las Vegas For 50?th Birthday, Looking For Good Veal Restaurant
• Moving To Las Vegas – Where Should I Live?
• Shuttle From Las Vegas To Primm Attractions And Outlet Mall?

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

• Bellagio Gallery Of Fine Art Presents ‘Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form’ Opening May 1

• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas And Morgans Hotel Group Open Acclaimed SKYBAR

• AFAN Hosts 24th Annual Black & White Party Inside The Joint At Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas

• Suncoast Las Vegas Goes Back To The ’80s This Summer With The Whip Its and Loveshack

• Social House, Brunello Cucinelli and Christian Dior Debut At Crystals Las Vegas

  Friday Figures: Las Vegas Real Estate Report for 7/23/2010

• The Signature At MGM Grand Las Vegas Unveils ‘Blue Hour’ Drink Specials

• Nove Italiano Las Vegas Happy Hour And Tasting Events

• Whiskey Pete’s Wags Its Tail In Honor Of National Dog Day: Dogs Stay Free Aug. 26 – 29

• Playboy Comedy Las Vegas Announces August Headliners

• Rhumbar Las Vegas Shakes Up Summer With Salsa Under The Stars Every Wednesday

• “November Nine” Is Set For 2010 World Series Of Poker Main Event, Top Prize Of $8.9 Million

• Vegas’ Favorite Band, Zowie Bowie, Makes Triumphant Return To Red Rock Las Vegas

• Bodies…The Exhibition Celebrates Second Anniversary With Two-For-One Tickets And Search For Its 1.5 Millionth Guest

• Rock & Rita’s Las Vegas To Host Nations International Flair Bartending Challenge

• Jenny McCarthy Hosts 4th Annual Midsummer Night’s Dream At Palms Las Vegas Pool & Bungalows

• Lolita’s Las Vegas Cantina & Tequila Bar Now Open

• Air Supply Perform At The Orleans Las Vegas Showroom Labor Day Weekend

• UMC and ‘Le Reve’ pool their resources – Specialists get underwater look at Wynn show

  Le Reve Show Tickets

• Likable Greg London puts on a well-assembled impressionist showcase

  Greg London’s Icons Show Tickets

• Vegas Show Inspires New Elvis Album

  Cirque du Soleil – Viva Elvis Show Tickets

• Las Vegas seeing more boutique hotels (with video)

• Goodman: Public financing crucial to arena plan

• Historic Moulin Rouge tower demolished in Vegas

• Is Olivia Newton-John Coming To Vegas Strip?

• The last of The Artisan’s woes – and those of its eclectic restaurant – are hopefully behind it

• Gate changes for Southwest Airlines passengers at McCarran

• Drop a year’s worth of cash in Sin City – without gambling

• Veer puts sustainable slant on high-rise living

• Screens, artwork help decorate highways in Las Vegas

• Game shows a bonus for Vegas

• Can you fry an egg in the Las Vegas heat? We give it our best shot

• Falling home sales, prices have realtors working harder for less

• Economic reality hits Las Vegas locals casino industry

• Book chronicles rise of IGT founder William Redd

• Gov. Kenny Guinn ‘cared so much’ about Nevadans, says former first lady

• Forever 21 opens new bi-level store in Fashion Show mall

• Encore Beach Club dresses up pool setting with lavish amenities

• Housing analyst sees sales uptick

• Bid to revive Yucca Mountain Project defeated in Senate

• Former governor Kenny Guinn dies at 73

• Lawmakers hear another bid for legal Internet poker

• Comedian Grandma Lee is loving the limelight

• Valley office vacancies rise in second quarter

• Fremont Street ‘free expression zones’ on hold

• Revenue from room taxes shows signs of improvement

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!

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

July 28, 2010 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! A very hot, hot, hot Las Vegas where temps were over 110 F for much of the last week. I finally put a misting system on my back patio (duh, should have done that a long time ago). But give me 110 instead of freezing temps anytime. If you are heat-adverse and from a cooler climate, now is the time to think about booking for fall. After the pool and picnic weather has subsided in your area, we’ll be enjoying 80 degree days and pleasantly cool nights (and following your favorite football team in the sports book here in Las Vegas!

Hooters Beer Special – Hooters Las Vegas hotel is offering $1.50 Bud and Bud Light beers at all casino bars. People seem to think of Hooters as being back off of The Strip. But in reality, the Hooters entrance sits directly across from the porte-cochere of the MGM Grand. It is a longer walk from The Strip to the restaurants in the back of the MGM than it is to Hooters!

Note: While it appears the promotion is indefinite, it never hurts to call ahead and check. PLEASE don’t be that person that emails us in 2011 going We were staying downtown and we went all the way to Hooters just for the beer special you talked about… and they weren’t running anymore. Even if you have to pay a buck to call from your hotel room (where applicable), it is always wise to check out whether a deal is still running before making a special trek.

I miss-We love our readers! It could be improved if, at least, you didn’t have to click on each story. If the entire reader’s questions/comments came up all at once, I wouldn’t be so put out. I just miss them being one of the most important sections of the newsletter.

Thanks for the great newsletter, nonetheless.

S. Pomplun, MN

My Response:

All of the letters are still there! In fact, because each on is on a web page, we can go more in-depth on answering some questions. And, we’re able to use more letters than we used to. Just look at the most recent one: Moving To Las Vegas – Where Should I Live? I would never have had the opportunity to go as in-depth here in the newsletter as I was able to do online.

Here’s the problem we are having to work around:

Our newsletter (as a computer file) is almost 100k in file size each week. Many, many internet services automatically tag any newsletter over 40k as spam which (combined with anti-Vegas spam filters) inhibits our full subscriber list from getting it every single week. (Some will receive it, others won’t).

We have a choice to either to cut the information we run in half, or move it online. Reducing the amount of info we run is out of the question. Hence, we’re moving much of it online.

We give each reader question a separate page for the following reasons:

1. You can decide which ones you do and don’t want to read without wading through a long page of multiple entries which may or may not be of interest.

2. We have more and more people signing up for our What’s Hot feed (short digest list of new stuff we put up, delivered 3-4 times a week). By putting up a new Members Mania post every every day or two, our What’s Hot subscribers can enjoy a little bit of Vegas almost every day instead of waiting for (and wading through) the newsletter. Also, more-and-more often we get news of events that don’t make the newsletter deadline. But we can post them to the internet and include then in the What’s Hot feed.

Hint. If you simply go to http://ask.accessvegas.com you’ll see the most recent Members Mania posts — all on one page — like you noted that you like them.

But at the end of the day, you are generally getting longer, more informative answers from me because of no space constraints, and you are getting letters that otherwise wouldn’t have run due to space. So really… you’re getting more, not less!

I have a good friend considering moving here and willing to pick up “anything to get him by” until a job in his field opens up. I told him that there aren’t “anything to get him by” jobs out there. Fast food jobs are hard to come by. To no one’s surprise, employment in tourism and professional fields are holding steady. The bleed in jobs (as I’ve noted it would be in past issues) is in construction.

2004, 2004, 2004 – Regular readers know that I’ve often pointed out that this “Vegas is dying and is going to dry up and blow away in the recession” talk is crazy-talk. Employment levels in actual count of people who have a job are at 2004 levels (we simply have too many people living here), visitor levels are at 2004 levels (which was considered a great year), and now the Convention Authority is basing its latest budget on… (hold your breath…) 2004 levels.

The only problem that Las Vegas (as a destination) had was that everybody got WAY too overzealous in building rooms. And they did it all at once. Had the glut of new hotels not flooded the market (and the construction workers to build them never have moved to town), you would have never heard about Las Vegas having a recession. Speaking of…

3000 More Rooms – Work is moving along nicely on The Cosmopolitan, two 50-story towers next to CityCenter. This will put additional downward pressure on room rates, keeping Las Vegas’ reputation as an extreme value intact for at least the next 9-12 months. Yes, airfare is expensive right now. But rooms here are such a bargain that we’re still the best value vacation of its kind.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

Rat Pack Is Back Out “Swaggers” Competition – Las Vegas Review-Journal entertainment columnist Mike Weatherford declares that Rat Pack is Back at the Plaza Hotel & Casino “was the gasser” (Sinatra Rat Pack slang for “the best”) and gives high marks to the tribute show, its incredible cast and full orchestra, staging, and overall entertainment experience.

• Full story/details/info: Rat Pack Is Back Out “Swaggers” Competition
• Buy Tickets Now: Rat Pack Is Back Las Vegas Tickets

Editors Note: Last week we ran some very nice bikini pics of Holly Madison and we promised that this week, we’d have something for the ladies. Here you go:

Firefighters Raise $50,000 At The 11th Annual Fire & Rain Firefighter Bachelor Auction – Eighteen of Southern Nevada’s bravest firefighters took the stage at the 11th Annual Fire & Rain Firefighter Bachelor Auction at RAIN Nightclub inside the Palms Casino Resort. The event attracted roughly 550 attendees and raised $50,000 for the Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation. “A lot of hard work went into making this event a big success,” said Warren Whitney, public information officer for the Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation. “We received a tremendous amount of support from our community partners, bachelors, volunteers and those who attended our event. Thanks to their help, the Burn Foundation was able to raise $50,000 which will fund our programs and services throughout the year.”

• Full story/details/info: 11th Annual Fire & Rain Firefighter Bachelor Auction

Deal Alert! Three Great Strip Attractions For Just $54 – Whether you love history, the human body, animals, thrills or cartoons, anyone can beat the Las Vegas heat this summer at an amazing price. The 3 for 54 promotion lets guests choose three Strip attractions to experience for just $54 and includes Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, BODIES… The Exhibition, Shark Reef Aquarium, Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, The Roller Coaster, CSI: The Experience, and SpongeBob Squarepants 4D FX Ride.

• Full story/details/info: Deal Alert! Three Great Strip Attractions For Just $54

MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris Offers A Chance To Win A Trip To Paris! – MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris, Las Vegas’ sexiest French cabaret, offers a chance to win a trip to Paris, France with the kick off of their “Passport to France” promotion that partners with various French inspired venues at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino.

• Full story/details/info: Crazy Horse Paris Offers A Chance To Win A Trip To Paris!
• Buy Tickets Now: Crazy Horse Paris Las Vegas Tickets

Bellagio Launches FlyteChannel Featuring Live In-Room Airport Arrival And Departure Screens – Adding to the many world-class amenities Bellagio offers, guests now have the convenience of viewing live airport arrival and departure screens without leaving their room. FlyteChannel, on channel 50 in guest rooms, shows cities, flight numbers, scheduled and actual arrival/departure times, airline logos, and gates.

• Full story/details/info: Bellagio Launches FlyteChannel

Harrah’s Las Vegas Have The Scoop On July’s National Ice Cream Month Specials – Although most people don’t really need an extra reason to enjoy summer’s favorite dessert, July is officially National Ice Cream Month, as proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. In the true spirit of celebration, Harrah’s and Caesars Palace proudly offer a variety of options for indulging in our country’s most popular frozen dairy treat through the end of the month.

• Full story/details/info: July’s National Ice Cream Month Specials

Sammy Hagar To Host Concert Pre-Party At Cabo Wabo Cantina – Sammy Hagar fans are in for a treat. The Red Rocker is back in Las Vegas and set to host a pre-concert kick off at his Las Vegas-based Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood on Friday, July 30. Hagar and friends will party like rock stars prior to his live performance with Aerosmith on Saturday, July 31 at MGM Grand Garden Arena.

• Full story/details/info: Sammy Hagar To Host Concert Pre-Party At Cabo Wabo Cantina
• Buy Tickets Now: Aerosmith and Sammy Hagar Las Vegas Tickets
• Other Cities: Aerosmith and Sammy Hagar Tickets

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Zion National Park by Tour Trekker Tour – Travel in a Tour Trekker from Las Vegas to Zion National Park on this tour. The true majesty of Zion National Park is unveiled in spectacular fashion as you explore the land where the Virgin River has sculpted a profound landscape masterpiece. You will encounter breathtaking features of picturesque places like the Court of the Patriarchs, Angel’s Landing, The Great White Throne, Temple of Sinawava, and Weeping Rock.

Highlights: * Free hotel pickup and drop-off included * Lunch included * Fully narrated tour

Click To Book Zion National Park Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• 20 Scots Coming To Vegas – Looking for 60s/70s Nights Bars, Themed Restaurants For Celebration
• Visiting Locals Casinos In Las Vegas: Worth Checking Out Boulder/AZ Charlie’s/Sam’s Town/Cannery?
• 5 Night Vegas Trip – Cher, Criss Angel, Valley of Fire Tour, Stratosphere Tower
• Did A Staycation, Had A Great Time, Wish Pornslappers Would Go Away
• Which Tour Company For A Grand Canyon Tour From Las Vegas?
• Las Vegas Discount Ticket Booths A Marketing Scam – Buyer Beware

I have been to Vegas 23 times over the last few years and there is no better place on earth then Las Vegas. I just love The Mirage.

Thanks,

Mike

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!

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

• Las Vegas Comedy-Magician Mac King Releases Magic Kit In A Lunchbox

  Mac King Comedy Magic Tickets

• Liberace Foundation & Museum Seeking Volunteers To Participate In A Variety Of Roles

• Cabo Wabo Cantina Las Vegas Introduces $1 Beer Mondays

• 41st Annual World Series Of Poker Sets New Major Milestones

• Sam’s Town Las Vegas Offers A Classic Rock Concert And Dance Party Every Friday All Summer Long

• Hash House A Go Go To Open New Location Inside The M Resort Spa Casino

• Engelbert Humperdinck Brings Romance Back To The Orleans Showroom August 20-22

• Santa Fe And The Fat City Horns At Palms Las Vegas On Monday Nights

• Let The Bier Games Begin!! Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas Begins Weekly Stein Holding Contest

• ESPN Radio 1100’s 5th Annual “Longest Radio Show Ever” And “Sportsman Of The Year” Event To Benefit The Caring Place

• College of Southern Nevada Foundation Adds Restaurants To Las Vegas Dine About Card

• Shark Reef Aquarium’s Newest Resident Provides Special Cause For Celebration During 10-Year Birthday Festivities

• Studio B Buffet Inside The M Resort Spa Casino Adds Summer Breakfast Hours

• Murphy’s Law Bar Las Vegas To Host Fundraiser For Muscular Dystrophy Association

• Dueling Rat Pack tributes not identical, but they’re close enough

  Sandy Hacket’s Rat Pack Show Tickets
  The Rat Pack Is Back Tickets

• Longtime Strip singer feels love for Vegas

  Vegas! The Show Tickets

• Metro’s high-tech hopes to increase safety along the Strip (with video)

• North Strip Renaissance Failing to Take Shape (with video)

• Discount Retail Business Grows on the Las Vegas Strip (with video)

• Experts suggest the best public restrooms

• Wedding Bells For Vegas Star ‘Big Elvis’

• Court orders Harmon inspection (CityCenter)

• Feds Grant $2.7M For UNLV Transit Center

• South Point casino expanding even in tough economy

• Las Vegas average apartment rents down 9.1 percent in quarter

• How to Survive a Las Vegas Trade Show

• Las Vegas group “under contract” to buy NBA team if it builds arena

• Las Vegas chamber backs small biz bill

• Is a NBA team in Las Vegas a good idea?

• New Las Vegas Nightclub Gets Holographic

• Breakfast-friendly Home Fries serves diner food for post-Hard Rock munchies

• Goodman to Vegas group: Show me the NBA contract

• Lake Las Vegas emerging from bankruptcy protection

• Las Vegas new-home sales up 27% in first half of 2010

• Survey: Las Vegas a good city for singles

• Cosmopolitan resort sued by condominium investors

• New paddleboarding business opens at Lake Las Vegas

• Owensboro adding flights to Vegas next year

• Boo hoo: No zoo on Vegas strip

• Economic reality set to reshape locals gaming market

• Ominous trend: Air traffic down, auto traffic up

• Cool Businesses Boom In Soaring Vegas Heat

• USO Lounge at Las Vegas Airport Gets Green Light

• World Series Of Poker Main Event attracts second-largest field in history

• MGM closing sales on Veer’s leaning towers of Strip

• Poll finds more support for an immigration law like Arizona’s

• Channel your inner John Wayne with a trail ride

• Recent Mount Charleston blaze was near miss, officials say

• Take shelter from the heat while enjoying a wide array of indoor pastimes

• Crown Theater and Nightclub mixes concerts and clubbing

• Labor commissioner’s decision favors Wynn, chills dealers

• World Cup betting lifts sports books

• Color will pop during Springs Preserve tour

• Autograph seekers get plenty of opportunities at NBA Summer League

• Despite hot hype, computer-linked game systems don’t yet rule casinos

• Smash or crash, which is it Cosmo?

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We get great weather much of the year. We get summer twice (both spring and fall here where our weather is comparable to summer in much of the U.S., Europe, Canada). But from mid-July through Labor Day, we pay the piper with some scorching weather. Temps the next few days are slated to rise above 110 F and overnight lows have been barely dipping  below 98 F.

If you are headed our way, my summer suggestions: You early birds, keep that early bird schedule (especially if you are coming from time zones east of us where you’re up much earlier than we normally are here). Daybreak is about 5 AM and an early morning pre-buffet (most open at 7 AM) walk (and maybe some gaming) is the perfect time to be out on The Strip. Plenty of elbow room, shade against the rising sun from the tall hotels, and lower temps. If you are a late riser, rise really late. Do brunch at 1 PM then indoor activities (shopping, playing) during the afternoon and save walking The Strip until after 10 PM when temps start to dip below 100 F and party until sunrise.

Water, Water Everywhere – Just a reminder to also drink more water than your body is telling you to. Our low humidity keeps your skin dry even when you are losing plenty of moisture and dehydration can set in quickly (especially if you are boozing). My advice? When ordering a drink, order an ice water along side it. Skip buying bottled water at the bars (expensive) and instead do so at many of the sundry stores along The Strip or at your hotel’s gift shop (where you can get a REAL bottle of water — good sized one — for way cheaper than those little bottles you pay dearly for at a bar).

Speaking Of Late Risers – The Cosmopolitan opens this December and will have packages featuring 8 PM check-out. More on this down the road, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see other hotels adopt that option. Upon arrival here, you often don’t need a room until night falls, and many would enjoy sleeping in and then squeezing every last minute out of their last day here. We love the concept!

Holly Madison Provides July 4′th “Fireworks” At Wet Republic Las Vegas – Holly Madison continues to be everywhere. Literally. On her recent reality show, she noted that she’s often at 3-4 events a day (and no stranger to charity events) and spent July 4′th as the featured celeb at MGM’s Wet Republic daylife pool party with cast mates from her reality show and Peepshow co-star Josh Strickland.
Photo Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Hint for the guys: If you click on the above photo, it will take you to a page with more photos and the complete story. If you click on any picture on the story page, it will open full size for you to use as computer wallpaper. Ladies, I promise we’ll see if Chippendales or Thunder From Down Under has new promo pics so you can have your turn!

Fireworks Over The Strip On The Fourth – If you couldn’t be here on the 4′th of July, you missed a totally spectacular 18 minute fireworks show over Caesars Palace plus secondary shows at Mandalay Bay and the Las Vegas Hilton that could be viewed from some parts of The Las Vegas Strip. As great as they were, I keep beating the drum for us to do a full New Years Eve style show like we do up and down the entire Strip on July 4. The 1/2 million dollar price tag would be around .05% of the annual budget that the Convention/Visitors Authority spends each year (and is currently being wasted on the ridiculous Camp Vegas ads).

The highlights would be shown around the world the next day. Demand to be here on the 4′th would be even greater. And frankly, the weather on July 4′th is a lot nicer than New Year’s Eve.

If you weren’t here or just want to relive it, head over to Las Vegas Fourth Of July Fireworks At Caesars Palace Video where we’ve posted two videos from the 4′th.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

Snow Falls On Fourth Of July In Las Vegas – Caesars Palace Hosts Big Air Show – Big Air Show – Professional snowboarders and skiers performed jaw-dropping tricks on a snow-covered, four-story ski jump outside on the Roman Plaza.

Caesars Palace and Coors Light teamed up to provide the coolest venue in Las Vegas to celebrate Independence weekend. The outdoor Roman Plaza in front of Caesars Palace was transformed into the ultimate cold zone, complete with a four-story ski jump with demonstrations by professional snowboarders and skiers, a walk-through ice lounge and live music on Saturday.

• Full story/details/info: Snow Falls On Fourth Of July In Las Vegas

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest In Las Vegas At The Fremont Street Experience – Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE), Las Vegas’ famed Fremont Street Experience and the celebrated tribute artist production “Legends in Concert,” announced today that the first-ever preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest to take place in Las Vegas will be held at Fremont Street Experience, Friday, July 23 and Saturday, July 24.

• Full story/details/info: Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
• Buy Tickets Now: Legends In Concert Las Vegas Tickets
• Other Cities: Legends In Concert Tickets

Chill Out With The New “Watermelon Smash” At Rhumbar Las Vegas – As the temperature on the Las Vegas Strip keeps climbing, RHUMBAR, the stylish drink spot with a Strip-view patio, introduces a refreshing way keep cool. The mouthwatering “Watermelon Smash” cocktail fuses cool seasonal watermelon with crisp cucumber, tangy lemon and Jose Cuervo Platino tequila for a delicious, fruity summer libation. The summer cocktail recipe, crafted by lead mixologist Kristen Schaefer, combines fresh cuts of seasonal watermelon muddled together with slices of crisp cucumber, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, Aperol liqueur and Cuervo Platino.

• Full story/details/info: “Watermelon Smash” At Rhumbar Las Vegas

Shark Reef Aquarium’s 10-Year Birthday Celebration Cake Contest Winner Swam Away With The Votes – Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay marks its 10th birthday in 2010 with summer-long celebrations. The recent kick-off party included an aquatic-themed cake contest with entries by some of Las Vegas’ award-winning pastry chefs. Guests were invited to vote for their favorite cake, and the winner was an impressive, 7-foot shark showcasing a fish bowl complete with live goldfish. The cake, a joint effort between the pastry kitchens of Luxor and Excalibur, and took three chefs approximately 60 hours to complete from conception to completion. Other entries were submitted by The Mirage, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio and Monte Carlo.

First Place Winner – Luxor/Excalibur. Guests who missed the first birthday celebration have two remaining parties, July 17 and August 21, to enjoy discounted admission prices, complimentary face painting, balloons, cookies and birthday fin crowns, plus a special appearance by Sharky the Shark.

• Full story/details/info: Shark Reef Aquarium’s 10-Year Birthday Celebration

Tacos & Tequila Las Vegas Offers Summer Happy Hour Specials – Just in time for summer, Tacos & Tequila (T&T), the rock ‘n’ roll-inspired Mexican restaurant at Luxor, introduces new happy hour specials. Locals and tourists will enjoy a variety of libations and tasty tacos at a special price, Monday through Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. Guests will get their drink on with Hornitos shots, Dos Equis Lager or casaritas, available for just $5 each, or a bucket of authentic, Sol Mexican beers, served on ice, available for $18. Revelers with an appetite will go loco for T&T’s delicious taco and beer combo featuring six signature tacos and a bucket of Sol Mexican beers for $29.

• Full story/details/info: Tacos & Tequila Summer Happy Hour Specials

JDRF And B.B. King’s Blues Club Las Vegas Pair Up To Host The Inaugural Rockin’ Vegas For The Cure – Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) hosts its inaugural Rockin’ Vegas for the Cure concert at B.B. King’s Blues Club on Thursday, July 15, 2010, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The night will be filled with great music, food and fundraising, featuring nine bands from around the Las Vegas Valley.

• Full story/details/info: JDRF And B.B. King’s Blues Club Las Vegas Rockin’ Vegas For The Cure

Celebrities, Poker Pros And Enthusiasts Raise More Than $275,000 At The Fourth Annual Ante Up For Africa At Rio Las Vegas – The fourth annual Ante up for Africa charity poker tournament took place yesterday at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino as part of the 41st Annual World Series of Poker®, raising more than $275,000 to aid the victims of the humanitarian crises in Africa. First place went to professional poker player Phil Gordon, who won a total of $129,086 and donated 100 percent back to the charity.

• Full story/details/info: The Fourth Annual Ante Up For Africa At Rio Las Vegas

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Buffalo™ - with Victor H. Royer. In this issue – and the following issues – I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and also show you some of the great new slots that are now available in your favorite casino. In this issue, I present Buffalo™, by Aristocrat, and a short description of the game and how to play it. Buffalo™ is one of the new generations of REEL Power slots from Aristocrat, this one in the Xtra Reel Power series. I will write more about Reel Power and Xtra Reel Power games, and what this means, in my new book, scheduled for release in April 2010.

Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Eldorado Canyon Tour Trekker Experience Tour – Travel by Tour Trekker from Las Vegas to the most famous gold mine in Southern Nevada – the Techatticup Mine. Explore the outside, some 500 feet deep into the side of the mountain. On the inside, see deep into the veins where early miners chased their dreams of gold and silver in the Great Gold Rush of the 1800’s. On the short journey to this rustic site, you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery – fields of teddy bear cholla, rare geologic formations, and an excellent photo opportunity down near the banks of Lake Mojave, the blue jewel of this isolated desert terrain.

Click To Book Eldorado Canyon Tour Trekker Experience Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• Las Vegas Trip Report – Stayed At Aria, Great Restaurants, Terrible Service
• Coming To Las Vegas From London For 25?th Anniversary: How To Find What Concerts Are Playing?
• Should I Rent A Car In Las Vegas? Where Is The Cheap Golf?
• Clubs For People Who Are Over 40 In Las Vegas?
• Booking Las Vegas Hotels In Advance, Using Discount Online Booking?

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

• Blue Man Group Hosts Open Auditions In Las Vegas At Its Theater Inside The Venetian

  Blue Man Group Tickets

• Mac King To Perform Special Benefit Show For The Girl Scouts Of Southern Nevada

  Mac King Comedy Magic Tickets

• Le Reve Las Vegas Presents The Diver’s Dream Package, The Ultimate SCUBA Experience

  Le Reve Tickets

• Executive Chef Geno Bernardo Hosts A Cooking Class At Nove Italiano On July 24

• Summer Heats Up With Station Casinos Las Vegas Free July House Entertainment

• Break Out Your Lawn Chair For Rockhouse’s “Tub And Grub” Front Porch Tailgate Party

• Panevino Ristorante Las Vegas Serves Up Food And Wine From Campania Region Of Italy For July Wine Dinner

• 1,800 people don ‘Phantom’ masks in Vegas

  Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Tickets

• Lakers set summer roster for Las Vegas

  Los Angeles Lakers VS. Sacramento Kings Preseason Tickets

• Burton’s magic, ‘Tournament of Kings” swordplay make kids smile

  Lance Burton Tickets

  Tournament of Kings Tickets

• More Businesses Moving to Downtown Las Vegas (with video)

• President’s Visit to Las Vegas Bad News For Some Businesses (with video)

• New Plan Looks to Tackle Long Hauling (with video)

• Appeal filed to preserve the Moulin Rouge (with video)

• Las Vegas Valley wages rose in ‘09 despite recession

• Las Vegas slots can be a real pain

• Harrah’s plans Vegas retail, entertainment center

• Exhibit on Las Vegas Signs, Architecture Opening

• Las Vegas Home Sales Slump

• Vegas taxi regulators look at credit card pay plan

• Crackdown begins on drunken boaters

• Malls on the Las Vegas Strip target less pricey stores

• World Series of Poker main event begins in Vegas

• IndyCar looking hard at Las Vegas finale

• I-15 express lane work finishing near Las Vegas Strip

• Forget nightlife, in Vegas the party rages all day long

• Southwest to add direct Las Vegas flights from Brownsville, TX

• Competition and the economic downturn have hurt, but Las Vegas is fighting back

• Las Vegas sees slightly more visitors in May

• ‘Vegas virgin’ finds there’s lots to like – and ogle – in Las Vegas

• Short Sales Driving Vegas Real Estate Market

• Las Vegas Hotel Rooms Still a Bargain

• Condo prices plunge – Trump selling studios at 70 percent discount

• Pizzeria at Crystals flourishes in place of failed French concept

• Coveted retail space at McCarran set aside for locals

• 2011 NASCAR schedule puzzle starts coming together

• Home reseller rails against county code rule

• May airport traffic dips 1.6 percent

• Women vie for final table spot in WSOP

• Imperial Palace’s Quesadilla tries to keep it simple

• Artisan Hotel aims to lure locals with focus on elegance

• Las Vegas Valley wages rose in ‘09 despite recession

• Rocker arrested on DUI charge (Vince Neil)

• One of a Kind: Phil Hellmuth strives to be poker’s best

• Institute proposes service tax for Nevada

• City studies ‘free expression zones’ next to Fremont area

• Negotiations continue in Harrah’s case against high roller Watanabe

• With income depleted, several LV shopping centers enter default

• Water halts lake tunnel work – $700 million ‘third straw’ cavern fills up

• Prices heading higher, but worldwide supply means shrimp cocktails will stay afloat

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Summer is in full swing, and and all those people who claimed that Las Vegas was dead (or dying) are morons. Some thought that when I refuted the notion over the past couple of years, I was just holding out crazy hope and having wishful thinking. However, time-after-time you were writing me and telling me what my own eyes told me: Las Vegas is busy.

Last Monday, we took an afternoon cruise down the Las Vegas Strip. It was 106 F out. Traffic was bumper-to-bumper. The sidewalks had plenty of people on them. And this is a Monday (mid-weeks are slower) in June! That “Vegas is dying” stuff was just some sour grapes by people with with no life who don’t like having fun. They were hoping that all of your fun would grind to a halt. They were wrong!

Bringing Fremont Street To The Strip – Harrah’s (Corporation) is reviving its plans to build a bars/restaurants/shops/etc complex between O’Sheas and The Flamingo, including the concept of having huge Ferris wheel attraction in the back which would take visitors high over the Las Vegas Strip. I’ve heard people question that limited space there, but it won’t be an issue:

• That “alley” is a LOT wider than people think. It is the same spot we filmed Cinco De Mayo Las Vegas Strip 2010 Party
• O’Shea’s parking garage is used for Harrah’s (Corp) employee parking. It would be perhaps converted to mixed use or torn down and employees could park on some of the empty space created when Harrah’s tore down all of the apartments, timeshares, and Bourbon Street Hotel.

Las Vegas Strip resorts are getting wise to what is happening on Fremont Street downtown. It has turned into one great party every night. Nice and condensed limiting the long walks, plenty of diversions and entertainment, and growing crowds. If Harrah’s can recreate that, they have a home run on their hands.

Don’t Claim To Know Vegas If You Don’t – A San Francisco based consumer reporter recently took a trip here and made some disparaging blog posts about Las Vegas (presumably to write off his trip — “work research”). He was particularly aggravated over paying $4 for a soft drink at a casino bar and otherwise painted Las Vegas as a rip-off. Truth is, he just didn’t know how to save money on food and drink here! (He obviously isn’t one of my readers).

I took the time to answer his charges and detailed all the ways to save on your libations, soft drinks, and noted that meal specials abound if you know where to find them.

Click over to read Consumer Reporter Tries To Bash Las Vegas… My Retort where I posted a link to his original comments plus my retort. You might even come across some ways to save on your food and drink here that you hadn’t thought about! Safe to say that if you are a regular reader here, you are much better informed about Las Vegas than most of the wanna-be experts.

Super Hot Ticket – Bob Dylan with John Cougar Mellencamp opening play The Colosseum at Caesars Palace this coming August 18. Capacity is only around 4000. I see we still have some Box Seats (as of this writing) in the $100 range. If you want to jump on that (or simply jump on getting tickets for it), click to Bob Dylan Las Vegas Tickets

Air Traffic Down – …Slightly for the fourth straight month. Think nothing of it. Everybody is trying to connect it with tourism. The reality is that our stagnant population combined with 14% unemployment has locals flying a LOT less. The new Hoover Dam bridge (to be finished in November of this year) will put a small dent in that as well. Shaving 1/2 hour (or more at times) off the drive from Arizona and New Mexico plus the continued TSA and airport hassles will continue to keep people in their cars. Plus, regular visitors like having a car here so they can get off The Strip to local attractions like Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, Lake Las Vegas and more.

Las Vegas Fireworks – Earlier in the week, we put fireworks listings for the Las Vegas Strip area online. We immediately put it out on Twitter and our What’s Hot feed (which you can subscribe to by email at no cost). If you get this newsletter before heading to town and you’ll be here for July 4′th, check out Las Vegas 4th Of July Events

Watch The Sunset – We have spectacular sunsets all year ’round. My pick to watch them (especially this time of year)? in the air-conditioned comfort of Stratosphere Tower Las Vegas. Here’s why: From the inside observation area you can catch both The Strip and Downtown light up, and between those two your western view is the sun dipping below the mountains which surround our area. Outstanding.

Keep in mind that the sun can vanish quick here over the mountains, and our sunset is probably earlier than yours at home (as we sit on the very eastern edge of our time zone). Get up there with plenty of time to spare.

Enjoy This Issue!

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

The Lion King Is Roaring

• Buy Lion King Las Vegas Tickets

B.B. King’s Blues Club At Mirage Las Vegas Offers World Cup Specials – Fans wanting to view the World Cup can do so at B.B. King’s Blues Club. B.B. King’s Blues Club offers $9.95 breakfast and lunch specials daily throughout the World Cup. Patrons can also enjoy $12 pitchers of domestic draft beer. The games can be viewed on eight high-definition TVs around the club for no cover charge.

• Full story/details/info: B.B. King’s Blues Club World Cup Specials

Celebrate Independence Day Las Vegas With Rock ‘N’ Roll Karaoke And $1 American Brews At Cabo Wabo Cantina – Cabo Wabo Cantina will celebrate America’s Birthday with live rock ‘n’ roll karaoke and $1 American brews on Sunday, July 4. Revelers will enjoy a selection of domestic drafts for just $1 from 3 to 8 p.m. and live rock music by classic rock band 3 Digit IQ at 9 p.m.

• Full story/details/info: Celebrate Independence Day At Cabo Wabo Cantina

Planet Hollywood And PH Towers: Latest Resorts To Participate In Harrah’s Las Vegas Hotel Group “No Resort Fees” Program – Effective immediately, Planet Hollywood Resort and PH Towers eliminate resort fees. The two resorts will join the other Harrah’s Entertainment Las Vegas properties, including Paris Las Vegas, Bally’s, Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, Caesars Palace, Flamingo Las Vegas, Imperial Palace and Harrah’s, in not imposing mandatory resort fees attached to a room reservation.

• Full story/details/info: Planet Hollywood And PH Towers “No Resort Fees” Program

photo credit: IS Photography/ImagesofVegas.com

Katharine McPhee Kicks-off ‘Stereo Love Saturdays’ At AZURE Las Vegas Beach Club – American Idol alum, Katharine McPhee, made a special musical appearance at AZURE Luxury Pool on Saturday, June 26th for ‘Stereo Love Live’. The sultry singer and songwriter graced the poolside stage and hosted the day time party to celebrate the launch of Belvedere Pink Grapefruit Vodka. Kat arrived with her husband to The Palazzo on Friday where they checked in at the VIP Lounge to their luxurious Siena suite. Kat was wearing a loose fitting cream crop top with cut-off jean shorts, flip flops and sporting her signature short, now brunette, hair do.

• Full story/details/info: Katharine McPhee Kicks-off ‘Stereo Love Saturdays’ At AZURE Las Vegas Beach Club

Macanudo Millionaire Contest 2010 – Win A Trip To Palms Las Vegas, Possible $1,000,000 – You can win a trip to the Palms Las Vegas resort and possibly become a millionaire in the Macanudo Millionaire contest! Grand Prize is a trip for four and a chance to win up to $1,000,000!

• Full story/details/info: Macanudo Millionaire Contest 2010 – Win A Trip To Palms Las Vegas, Possible $1,000,000

Las Vegas Shopping Notes

Ermenegildo Zegna Opens at Crystals – Ermenegildo Zegna, the leading Italian luxury menswear brand with a reputation for quality and service that is unparalleled around the world, opened its largest Las Vegas store at Crystals on June 5. At approximately 10,000 square feet, the two-level store showcases its extensive collection of suiting, sportswear, small leather goods and accessories.

La Martina Opens – Just opened at The Forum Shops, La Martina is the official supplier in the world of the sport of polo. They approach business the same way a high scoring polo player approaches polo – with passion, devotion and the utmost commitment to excellence. The store’s concept includes leather outfits, polos and shirts for men, women and kids, as well as accessories such as belts, bags, shoes, hats and more. Each and every product at La Martina is carefully designed, produced and tested to ensure it fulfills necessary quality standards required to compete and win at the very best tournaments all over the world.

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Maverick Indian Territory Tour – This exciting tour begins by flying over the beautiful Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, the world famous Hoover Dam and Fortification Hill. Maverick Helicopters will descend and land in the Hualapai Indian Territorym 3,500 feet into the Grand Canyon. The excursion then journeys back through the Grand Canyon and lands on at the West Rim where you will enjoy spectacular views along Eagle Point and receive a brief introduction to the Hualapai Indian legends and culture. Guano Point, a breathtaking observation spot overlooking the Grand Canyon will follow.

Click To Book Maverick Indian Territory Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• Las Vegas Trip Report: THE Hotel, Blue Man Group, So Much To Do And See, What Next Time?
• Somewhere Special For A Nice Meal In Las Vegas Without Breaking The Bank?
• Las Vegas Trip Report: Visit Often, Loved Terry Fator, Didn’t Like CityCenter At All
• Been To Las Vegas 40 Times In 10 Years From Scotland, Recommend Margarita Cantina
• What Happened To Certain Slot Machines In Las Vegas?
• How Are Garth Brooks’ Las Vegas Shows Going?
• Any Las Vegas Poker Tournaments For Seniors?

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

• Elvis History To Repeat Itself At The Las Vegas Hilton

• Prepare Your Body, Skin And Soul For Summer With Special Services At Canyon Ranch SpaClub

• The Liberace Foundation & Museum Offers Discounted Admission For Summer

• Bonkerz Comedy Club Palace Station Las Vegas Welcomes Back Grandma Lee For The Remainder Of The Summer

• Clint Holmes Returns To The Suncoast Las Vegas Showroom July 10-11

• Take A “Road Trip Weekend” This Fourth Of July, Destination Rockhouse Las Vegas

• Stratta Wynn Las Vegas Announces New Dinner Menu

• Qua Baths & Spa At Caesars Palace Expands Destination Spa Offerings With Addition Of Yoga And Water Qi Gong Classes

• Sierra Gold And PT’s Las Vegas Announce July Promotions And Drink Specials

• The Grove In Los Angeles Celebrates ‘The Lion King Day’ With Special Free Cast Performance By The Las Vegas Company

• Busta Rhymes To Kick Off Fourth Of July Weekend At Eve Nightclub Saturday, July 3

• Producer says ‘Vegas! The Show’ is highlight of his career

  Vegas! The Show Tickets

• Wayne Brady’s many talents on display during ’special engagement’

  Wayne Brady Show Tickets

• Daytime Emmys Showcase Las Vegas Entertainers (with video)

• Odds Not Good for Finding Las Vegas Jobs (with video)

• Lake Las Vegas sees hope in the future (with video)

• Lady Luck may smile on downtown again (with video)

• Roller Boogie at the Rio (with video)

• Nevada panel endorses new I-11 from Vegas to Reno

• New-home sales rise in Las Vegas

• Fate of Fountainbleau unclear

• Leaving Las Vegas is not an easy task

• A Poolside Report from City Center

• Analyst: Casino Industry Has Hit Bottom

• Four designs unveiled for Las Vegas veterans monument

• The surprising secret of a Las Vegas data center

• Jackson’s Legacy Lives On In Vegas

• Panel OKs razing historic Moulin Rouge remains in Las Vegas

• Schizophrenic menu aside, Silverado Ranch’s new Asian restaurant offers good, unique and affordable fare

• Strip Impersonators Told To Hike Back To Hollywood

• CityCenter’s Harmon Hotel languishes; unfinished building at center of legal dispute

• Boomtime business as usual won’t come back; let’s focus on renewal

• Gaming demands down, do we need new marketing?

• Vegas taxi regulators look at credit card pay plan

• Nevada Economy Rebounds As Sales Rise

• And the winner is … Las Vegas

• Rhodes could still lose legal war

• Nevada’s minimum wage rate increasing

• Golden Nugget’s Chart House restaurant a master of more than seafood

• Gilley’s a laid-back club where patrons can take a spin on the mechanical bull

• Second NASCAR Sprint Cup event creeps closer

• Allure of college football is difficult to ignore

• Nevada misses nationwide building bounce

• Maloof’s got NHL stars in his Palms

• Rio Secco takes golfers to school

• Judge OKs reorganization plan for Lake Las Vegas

• New-home sales rise in Las Vegas

• Revue fans get more variety

• Bruckheimer still has NHL dreams

• 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
• Memorial Day, U.S May 28-30 (3 day weekend)
• Father’s Day June 19

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

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Amy’s on vacation and I’m on assignment. But we still had plenty of news and events to get out. Plus, I’ve done a number of new Members Mania posts and Amy was able to get a bunch of stuff done before she left. So instead of simply skipping publishing this week, we actually have a nicely packed (although slightly shorter)  issue with lots of Las Vegas everything for you.

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!

• Full story/details/info: Tim Allen To Perform At The Mirage Las Vegas
• Buy Tickets Now: Tim Allen Las Vegas Tickets
• Other Cities: Tim Allen Tickets

Bellagio Las Vegas Gallery Of Fine Art Presents ‘Figuratively Speaking: A Survey Of The Human Form’ – Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) is pleased to announce the opening of “Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form”. Organized in partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), “Figuratively Speaking” presents figurative works by such artists as Pierre-August Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, Joseph Cornell, Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney, Judith Shea, Bill Viola, Yoshitomo Nara, Vanessa Beecroft and many others.

• Full story/details/info: Bellagio Las Vegas Gallery Of Fine Art

Three Bartenders At Palazzo Las Vegas Named EFFEN Vodka Mixologists Plus Winning Drink Recipes – The Art of Design presented by EFFEN® Vodka is a unique series of events in Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, and Milwaukee. In each city, premier local mixologists design the ultimate EFFEN® Vodka martini. Guests have the opportunity to view the works of local artists, sample the freshly designed cocktails and vote for the most provocative premium martini.

• Full story/details/info: EFFEN Vodka Mixologists Plus Winning Drink Recipes

Nu Sanctuary Las Vegas Announces New ‘Bite Wednesdays’ Lineup Starting – Nu sanctuary, the distinctive new restaurant and lounge at Town Square, will offer one-of-a-kind tastings and electrifying nightlife every Wednesday evening. ‘Bite Wednesdays,’ hosted by Ketel One models, will feature resident DJ Fuzion spinning an eclectic mix of top 40, mash-ups and dance beats with a flavorful tasting by Executive Chef Brian Howard.

• Full story/details/info: Nu Sanctuary Las Vegas Announces New ‘Bite Wednesdays’

2010 NBA Las Vegas Summer League Schedule Announced – Twenty-two NBA teams, including 11 that appeared in the 2010 NBA Playoffs, will compete in this year’s NBA Summer League. For the second consecutive year, a team of NBA Development League Select players will also participate in the action taking place at the Thomas & Mack Center and the COX Pavilion on the campus of the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Marketing partners included in the event are adidas, EA SPORTS, Gatorade and T-Mobile.

• Full story/details/info: 2010 NBA Las Vegas Summer League

McFadden’s Las Vegas Brings Bikinis And Beer Together With The “Sexy Summer Bash” – The scorching, summertime heat is the perfect excuse for partygoers to strip down to their string bikinis and head to McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino for the “Sexy Summer Bash” on Saturday, June 26. Sin City’s sizzling ladies and handsome studs will need to grab their bikinis and trunks, and get ready for the ultimate boozy beach bash.

• Full story/details/info: McFadden’s Las Vegas “Sexy Summer Bash”

Rich Little Brings “A Thousand Voices” To Cannery Casino & Hotel July 10 – Master mimic Rich Little will perform at The Club inside the Cannery Casino & Hotel on Saturday, July 10 at 8 p.m. Known as “The Man of a Thousand Voices” for his incredible range of impressions, Rich Little has spent the past five decades entertaining audiences with his signature brand of humor.

• Full story/details/info: Rich Little To Perform At Cannery Casino & Hotel

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Hit The Heights - with Victor H. Royer. In this issue – and the following issues – I will now write a little more about some of the favorite slots that my readers have told me they like to play, and also show you some of the great new slots that are now available in your favorite casino. In this issue, I present Buffalo™, by Aristocrat, and a short description of the game and how to play it. Buffalo™ is one of the new generations of REEL Power slots from Aristocrat, this one in the Xtra Reel Power series. I will write more about Reel Power and Xtra Reel Power games, and what this means, in my new book, scheduled for release in April 2010.

Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Death Valley Explorer Tour – Experience the beauty of the largest national park in the contiguous United States – Death Valley. See highlights including Mercury, former home of atomic weapons testing, and venture into the fascinating ghost town of Rhyolite, home to rustic ruins from the past as well as the Goldwell Open Air Museum.

Click To Book Death Valley Explorer Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view their questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• Where Are The Las Vegas Slots That Actually Still Pay Real Coins?
• Family Celebrates Kid’s 21’st Birthday In Las Vegas – Do It!
• Enjoyed Our Las Vegas Trip, Show and Tour Reports, Parents Don’t Bring Your Kids
• Pumped In Perfume Smell Inside Las Vegas Casino Hotels?
• Las Vegas Hotels – Weekday vs. Weekend Rates and What Weeks Are Cheaper?
• Return Of Old-Style Las Vegas Junkets, Why Is Airfare So High?

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

• Treasure Island Announces Sizzling Summer Comedy Line-up

  Bill Cosby Las Vegas Tickets

• Celebrate National Pink Day On Wednesday, June 23 At The Forum Shops At Caesars

• Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas Unveils HRH Beach Club

• Palms Las Vegas Presents Vince Neil At The Cruzan Campfire Concert Series

• Lesley Gore, Shirley Alston Reeves And “Little” Peggy March Come Together As Legendary Ladies Of Rock & Roll At The Orleans Showroom, July 24-25

• Cannery Las Vegas Welcomes Larry Gatlin And The Gatlin Brothers

• Playboy Comedy At Palms Las Vegas Announces July Headliners

• Matt Donnelly’s Executive Monkeys Show Takes Over The Lounge At Palms Las Vegas

• The Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals For Children Open Presents The Charley Hoffman Foundation Pro-Am

• The Medusa Group Takes On Las Vegas – Introduces New Concept

• New shows recall Vegas of old

  Vegas! The show Tickets

• Cheap Trick owns the stage while hypnotist turns in generic show

  Sgt. Pepper Live: Cheap Trick Show Tickets

• Will Las Vegas ever be dealt a winning hand? (with video)

• Construction workers still having trouble finding work in Las Vegas (with video)

• Richard Branson, Dita Von Teese celebrate in Vegas

• Vegas Show Aims To Break ‘Phantom’ Record

• Travel Act to Bring Visitors to Las Vegas

• Developer Will Outline Plans for Las Vegas Arena

• Town Square’s Nu Sanctuary takes your taste buds on a safari

• MGM Mirage, Perini dig in for CityCenter dispute

• Virgin Atlantic to fly to Vegas from Manchester

• Commercial-space landlords slow to adjust to slump

• Airlines cut summer departures from McCarran

• Decision On Nevada Smoking Ban Delayed

• No End To Nevada’s Jobless Slump

• Las Vegas train: Will it ever happen?

• It’s Official: Las Vegas has highest unemployment rate in country

• Vegas’ Perfect Poolside Dining

• Lake Las Vegas to Emerge From Bankruptcy

• Group Trying to Bring Jobs to Nevada

• CityCenter continues to close condo sales

• Local distressed land sales jump

• Nevada High Court Withdraws Water Rights Ruling

• Brad Garrett in ‘control’ of his new comedy club

• Sir Richard Branson delivers another memory

• Gilley’s offers home-style American fare

• NBA Summer League to play 58-game schedule in Las Vegas

• Zappos.com ‘new’ LV marathon title sponsor

• Sand, surf and stars highlight concerts

• Sour retail market helps existing merchants, new entrepreneurs

• Ruvo Center offers potential as vast as the human mind

• New investor Paulson rides into town with hope for gaming

• Retail development planned at busy crossroads at Fremont Street, Eastern Avenue

• Nevada delights in rush to gold

• Redone Oasis is latest of Siegel Group renovations downtown

• Canceled UNLV programs would shut down gradually

• Wynn thinks about empire’s successor

• 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
• Memorial Day, U.S May 28-30 (3 day weekend)
• Father’s Day June 19

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

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! After a bit of a temperature spike, things are staying under the 100 degree (F) mark. Pool weather hot, but not so bad that you think the street is melting under you! By the way, Las Vegas visitor numbers have risen for eight consecutive months now. So much for all the people who were celebrating the death of Las Vegas.

And The Rocket’s Red Glare, The Fireworks Bursting In Air… – Just about this time of year, we get flooded with email asking where on The Strip you can see 4′th of July fireworks. Especially for those coming from other countries who want a taste of how we celebrate this special day in the United States. And usually I don’t have any answers, and by the time word gets out, you are already on your way here and it is too late.

I’m thrilled to note that The Stratosphere will indeed be doing an all-day pool party. It is already planned and (I’m happily in shock)… they got us all the info already! Now… they aren’t having their own fireworks (and we’ll fill you in on those as word happens). However, you can enjoy their all-day bash with food and drink specials and special appearances from the cast of American Superstars and the sexy girls from BITE, and then head up to the tower to watch the fireworks that typically take place all over the Las Vegas Valley (well off The Strip). Click to read all the info: Stratosphere Las Vegas Celebrates Fourth Of July “Red, White and You” Pool Party And BBQ And yes, we’ll have actual fireworks location info as it becomes available.

Fewer Free Drinks In Las Vegas Not Just Your Imagination – The stats are in and those “missing cocktail waitresses” are not your imagination. I blogged about the details, my thoughts on why this poses a problem to the gaming industry (here in Las Vegas) and also give you a chance to add your own comments. Which you should… they will make it to the proper ears. Click over to read Fewer Free Drinks In Las Vegas Not Just Your Imagination

REAL Concierge Service – Many of our readers are well-traveled and used to staying at nice hotels. One of the perks of a nice hotel is the hotel concierge. This is a person who helps you with local knowledge, helps in planning itineraries, obtaining dining reservations (with the help of their inside knowledge to help you pick the right place), tours, golf, and special requests (anything legal).

In many cities, a hotel concierge serves only for tips. They do a great job for you, you tip them in return. The top attainment by a concierge is to be on of Les Clefs d’Or (their professional organization). In Las Vegas… not so much. Concierge desks are often glorified ticket desks, and they have a tendency to “sell” you what they need to push. So it is with great pleasure we note that the MGM Grand has 12 certified Les Clefs d’Or (gold keys – they wear them on their lapel) concierges — more than any other hotel in the world. This team speaks 13 languages and has been specially trained in global etiquette.

Want a ticket service? Go to a ticket booth in your hotel. Want a real concierge? Go to the MGM concierge desks (and don’t forget to tip them well for service well-rendered). If you typically enjoy concierge service when you travel, we strongly suggest you click to read MGM Grand Concierge Recognized By Esteemed Concierge Association Les Clefs d’Or – More Keys Than Any Other Hotel In The World

UFL Championship Game? – Help! I pride myself of having tape (DVD’s now) of just about every big Las Vegas event on TV. Implosions, New Years, stunts, you name it. Screwed up and totally forgot the day that the upstart UFL was playing their championship game here. If anyone has it and can get me a copy, I’ll send you a some cool Vegas stuff from our prize vault. Drop me a line: allvegastv@aol.com

Sometimes You Want It Now! – Many of you know that we have a What’s Hot section on the main page of AccessVegas.com We post a tremendous amount of info all the time and it all ends up in the newsletter (often down in the “More” section). We select the best (and most interesting) for What’s Hot. And… if you don’t visit the site every day, you may miss something. But what if you could have a short, quick daily email with just a few of the top, most popular and helpful pieces of news and information that we post?

Now you can! Click over to our AccessVegas.com What’s Hot! Email Alert page, fill in your email, and once a day (no more than that), we’ll send you a quick, short digest email with the best selected Vegas Visitor news we posted that day. Short and sweet, no hassle, no cost. Just another great service we want to offer you, our readers.

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!

Lionel Richie Returns To The Colosseum At Caesars Palace – World-renowned music icon Lionel Richie will bring his four decades of award winning hits to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31.

• Full story/details/info: Lionel Richie Coming To Las Vegas
• Buy Tickets Now: Lionel Richie Las Vegas Tickets
• Other Cities: Lionel Richie Tickets

Las Vegas Rock & Rita’s To Host July 4th Weekend Grand Opening – Rock & Rita’s will bring its “Great American Party” to Circus Circus with a raucous grand opening celebration over Fourth of July weekend. Flair bartending, live music and festive signature dishes take center stage at the sprawling, 14,000-square-foot party spot.

• Full story/details/info: Rock & Rita’s July 4th Weekend Grand Opening

Stratosphere Las Vegas Sizzles With Body And Soul Parties At Level 8 Pool – The weather is heating up and Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower is hosting sizzling “Body and Soul” pool parties at Level 8 Pool for those hot summer days and nights. Partiers can dance to the world beat of Rhythmic Soul, a unique three-piece group featuring a DJ accompanied by live percussion and horn. Rhythmic Soul will perform on the pool deck Thursday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. all summer long.

• Full story/details/info: Stratosphere Las Vegas Parties At Level 8 Pool

Rockhouse Las Vegas Weekly Lineup Of Specials And Events – Another Effen Monday – Rockhouse’s industry night will top off with resident DJ Inferno spinning on the ones and twos, featuring $3 you-call-it Effen Vodka cocktails. Revelers that show an industry business card will receive bottle service starting at $100. Mid-Week Go Dirt Cheap – Too poor to party on the weekend? Party mid-week and get it dirt cheap at Rockhouse. Enjoy $2 drafts and wells on Tuesdays and $50 Smirnoff Vodka bottles on Wednesdays. Ladies Night – All ladies will drink on the house from 10 p.m. until midnight with resident DJ Joey Da Juice spinning party-inducing mash-ups all night long.

• Full story/details/info: Rockhouse Las Vegas Weekly Lineup

History Teams With eBay For Pawn Stars Las Vegas Charity Auction – The PAWN STARS can appraise the value of anything under the sun, but even the “Old Man” can’t predict what a fabulous weekend in Las Vegas with HISTORY’s biggest stars will fetch. Coinciding with season 3 of cable’s No. 1 series (in adults 25-54), which premiered Monday, June 7 at 10/10:30 p.m. ET, HISTORY is joining forces with eBay for the first time ever to present a PAWN STARS Charity Auction. The charity auction will kick off Monday, June 14 at 10pm ET at www.ebay.com/pawnstars.

• Full story/details/info: Pawn Stars Las Vegas Charity Auction

• Full story/details/info: “Sgt. Pepper Live” Opens In Las Vegas
• Buy Tickets Now: “Sgt. Pepper Live” Cheap Trick Las Vegas Tickets

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Hit The Heights - with Victor H. Royer. If you haven’t read the last issue, Part 11 (A), please refer to it for the story that goes with The Sky’s The Limit motto. It applies to this great game, as it did to the great pioneer of Las Vegas casinos.

Today, I am continuing with the game description for the 4 base games that are part of the Hit The Heights family of multiline video slots. Wish Big – This is a 25 line game, with 35-credit minimum (25 per line + 10 ante bet). The game is available in 1, 2 and 5-cent denominations, and provides a feature where you can win 10, 15 or 20 free games with 3, 4 or 5 scattered GEM symbols.

Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Nellis Dune Buggy Tour – Take an exhilarating shake, rattle and roll tour of the Nellis Dunes by dune buggy from Las Vegas. You’ll feel the wind in your face as you traverse dry river beds, soar over sand dunes and experience the desert scenery like never before. Stops will be made at Look Out Dune and Rattle Snake Cliffs during the tour.

Click To Book Nellis Dune Buggy Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We enjoy being responsive to our readers. Click on each post to view their questions/comments and our tips and answers. Keep yourself informed on Las Vegas!

• What Are Free and Cheap Activities To See In Las Vegas?
• Niece Getting Married In Las Vegas, How Far Out To Book?
• Bring Back Full Pay Las Vegas Blackjack (Plus Tips On Best Places To Play, Lowest Limits)
• Treating Our Daughter To A Nice Las Vegas Spa Treatment
• 10′th Visit To Las Vegas From London – Great Trip Report
• Loved Viva Elvis Cirque du Soleil Show At Aria Las Vegas

I am a subscriber to the another Las Vegas newsletter, but I think you newsletter is the best of the rest, it has information that I use when planning my trip to your fair city (July 13-21). I stay at the Imperial Palace and never have had any problem with that hotel, they are very accommodating and see to all my needs.

Keep up the fine work in your newsletter I look forward to it every week.

Carmine

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

• Garfield’s Restaurant Presents Summerlin Jazz Festival

• Star-Studded 4th Annual Ante Up For Africa Celebrity-Charity Poker Tournament Returns To The 2010 World Series of Poker® At Rio In Las Vegas On Saturday, July 3

• M Resort Spa Casino Hosts Intimate “Veils And Vino” Bridal Affair

• New Reliquary Water Sanctuary & Spa At Hard Rock Las Vegas

• Project Dinner Table Announces June Dinner, Upcoming Dates – First Two Dinners Selling Out

• Meet & Greet Events For 11th Annual Fire & Rain Firefighter Bachelor Auction

• Eat, Drink and Dance At The New Stoney’s North Forty Las Vegas

• Starship Starring Mickey Thomas Performs At Eastside Cannery Las Vegas

• Skybar Las Vegas Showcases Photo Exhibit By Neal Preston, Famed Rock Photographer, On June 17

• Treat Dad To A Feast At Springs Cafe By Wolfgang Puck

• Rock The Runway This Summer With Fashion Tips From Miracle Mile Shops Las Vegas

• Mio Man Time Hits M Resort’s Spa Mio – The Four-Star Destination Spa Offers Father’s Day Specials To Relax And Rejuvenate Dad

• Marcus Samuelsson And Rick Moonen Host Dinner At Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood In Las Vegas

• Rockhouse Celebrates “Another Effen Father’s Day” Celebrate Being A Father…Or Not, At Rockhouse

• Comedian Louie Anderson to end run at Excalibur

  Louie Anderson Tickets

• Madison says ‘Holly’s World’ a ‘guilty pleasure’ type of show

  Peepshow Tickets

• Cheap Trick adding own songs while performing Beatles favorites during ‘Sgt. Pepper Live’

  Sgt. Pepper Live: Cheap Trick Tickets

• The real ‘Jersey Boys’ come clean

  Jersey Boys Tickets

• Vegas! The Show debuting at the Saxe Theater (with video)

• Tourists Slowly Returning to Las Vegas (with video)

• Las Vegas ESPN Zone restaurant to close

• Hawaiian Air To Fly Maui To Vegas

• Legacy Of Elvis’ Scarves Lives On In Vegas

• Vegas Sees Slight Boost In April Visitors

• Las Vegas home prices stable despite fewer sales

• Las Vegas visitor volume increases for the eighth straight month

• Is Las Vegas Ready for a Professional Sports Team?

• Tropicana hosting Las Vegas Mob Experience

• The Stunning Crash And Burn Of Las Vegas

• Lake Powell pipeline to water Las Vegas?

• Adult pools make a splash in Vegas

• Four meals. Four restaurants. One request: Turn up the heat.

• Players ante up for charity with start of WSOP

• Despite Decline, Nevada Leads Nation in Foreclosures in May

• Las Vegas arena proponent due before commissioners

• Vegas awards show a good idea

• Visitation numbers are up, but not enough to call Las Vegas recession free

• Dining out Vegas style – Sin City isn’t just about the shows and casinos

• Las Vegas Sees Slightly More Visitors in April

• MGM Mirage changes name to MGM Resorts Int’l

• Angle wins, promises to ‘dump Harry Reid’ in November

• Clark County to lay off about 100 – Affected employees to be notified by June 18

• Sports books unsure of betting interest for World Cup

• Bar+Bistro quickly fills void in downtown Arts Factory

• Analysts address LV’s lagging recovery

• Miniature golf a nostalgic treat

• Longtime sports bettor gambles on family and loses

• Hard Rock Hotel finds new boss

• Harrah’s going public again? Maybe …

• Exec leaves football behind to help poker go global

• Day after primary win, GOP leaders rally to her side (Sharron Angle)

• Comedy scene gains one, loses one

• What’s your plan, Sen. Reid?

• Valley pub crawls with British, American fans for big game (World Cup)

• Reid’s challenger says she won’t cast herself as moderate

• Real Estate website names Turnberry Towers in top 10 deals

• El Cortez, turning 70, calls on local designers in contest

• George Wallace’s easy-going nature turns Flamingo audience into friends

• Silverton’s Sway Pool Lounge caters to those who just want to drink with friends

• UNLV cuts derail students’ planning

• Lou Ruvo Brain Center ceremonies bring out emotions

• Existing home sales rise in April

• Tivoli Village names new tenants

• Lefty’s former digs right for insecure

• Vacancies continue to rise in Las Vegas industrial market

• 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
• Memorial Day, U.S May 28-30 (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

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! The heat hit quickly to remind us that summer 2010 is here. Overnight lows this past week stayed in the low 80’s on a few days. (It was beautiful out in the late evening hours). Don’t stay out too late, or you’ll be hit by sunrise at about 4:30 AM. We sit on the very edge of Pacific Time so our sunrise and sunsets happen a lot earlier than in other areas.

The Lady Is Stirring – Finally, news on the return of perennial reader favorite Lady Luck downtown. Plans are filed and preliminary work has already started toward the re-opening (no date set yet). They are looking to build a big pool deck atop the existing casino, renovate and upgrade all the rooms, plus add meeting space and a spa (which will require ripping out about 50 rooms). With the revitalization of the neighboring Gold Spike into a boutique hotel and the transformation of the adjoining (formerly shuttered) Travel Inn into “Oasis at The Gold Spike”, this forlorn area is seeing new life.

Just In Time – As many of you know, Celine Dion and her husband Rene Angelil are expecting twins. Good news for her as it will give her a little bit of “bounce back” time before she resumes regular Las Vegas performances in March of 2011. Her return is generating plenty of interest and people are planning entire trips around coming to see her. She was great for Las Vegas last time, and we wish her the same success in 2011.

Of special note is that she actually made Las Vegas her home. (She and her family live at Lake Las Vegas). So many performers (and even the CEO of Harrah’s) actually live elsewhere and just fly in. It has been nice to see her part of the community (and she’s even been spotted shopping at the Wal-Mart near her home). Check out Celine Dion Las Vegas 2011 Tickets

3 Story Walgreens Coming To The Las Vegas Strip – We call big hotel complexes “megaresorts” so can we call this a Mega-Walgreens? I blogged about where, why, and included a great tourist tip (hint: how visitors are getting around renting an in-room refrigerator) in my latest post: New Walgreens On The Las Vegas Strip – Needed, Great For Everyone

Angle vs. Reid – Well, here we go! GOP primary winner Sharon Angle will be running to unseat our infamous Senator Harry Reid. The day before he primary, polls showed that Danny Tarkanian (son of legendary UNLV basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian) was the only person in the GOP primary who could beat Reid in the general election. I concur and believe that Angle will struggle.

As unpopular as Reid is here (more than 50% of voters don’t like him), he has always seemed to find a way to win close races. Angle will have to run a flawless campaign and wisely spend the millions that are going to pour into her coffers from out-of-state. Unless something very unexpected happens, I believe it will be too close to call, right down to the wire. A recount after the November election wouldn’t surprise me in this race.

Drinking Off That Hangover – South Point seems to garner quite a bit of interest from our readers. They are now offering $1 Bloody Mary or Mimosa drinks from 6 AM to Noon. Hey… it’s 5 o’clock somewhere! Speaking of more traditional happy hours…

Movers and Shakers Happy Hour – Long recognized as probably the best happy hour in town, McCormick and Schmick’s continues to be well worth checking out from 3:30 to 6:30 PM. Much of the tapas-style servings are $2.95 ($3.50 minimum drink purchase) and the bar staff is always friendly. Add in the fact that the bar has NO bartop video poker (a conversation killer) and is located near a very upscale business district, and you have a perfect opportunity to either relax or network. Slightly less than one mile east of The Strip on Flamingo (in Restaurant Row), highly recommended for the multi-time visitor to check out. You can read the local paper review at McCormick & Schmick’s happy hour offers diners discount prices

Side Note: Sometimes people wonder if the stuff in my column is a paid endorsement. Absolutely not. You can NOT buy your way into Newkirk’s Notes. Don’t get me wrong: We have some great advertisers and I’ll give them mention because they deserve it. But no one knows ahead of time that they’ll be mentioned, and none of it is in return for compensation. I simply love Las Vegas, love checking things out, and sharing them with you.

Another great happy happy hour for downtown visitors? Vue Bar on the second floor of Fitzgerald’s downtown seems to continue to be a best-kept secret. Plenty of TV’s, table or bar seating, second floor view of Fremont Street outside. Happy hour Tue. – Thur. from 4-6 PM. Can’t beat it!

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!

• Full story/details/info: Boyz II Men Coming To Las Vegas
• Buy Tickets Now: Boyz II Men Las Vegas Tickets
  Boyz II Men Worldwide Tickets

Rediscover The RMS Titanic One Artifact At A Time: Ten of Clubs – As players from all around the globe come to Sin City for The World Series of Poker beginning May 27, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition invites guests to learn more about the history of card playing. Recovered in 1993, this American steamboat playing card is one of 52 from a pack found among the personal effects of Howard A. Irwin and can be found inside the Exhibition at Luxor Hotel & Casino.

• Full story/details/info: Rediscover The RMS Titanic

Sterling Silver Maestro And International Jeweler Thomas Sabo With Second Las Vegas Location – Sterling silver maestro and international jewelry designer Thomas Sabo announces the grand opening of a second location in Las Vegas in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Las Vegas. Located next to Las Vegas hot spot TAO, the new store continues to offer the one-of-a-kind, fashion-forward pieces that has made the Thomas Sabo brand one of the leading lifestyle products for men and women.

• Full story/details/info: Jeweler Thomas Sabo With Second Las Vegas Location

Country Music’s Rowdiest Summer Party: Toby Keith’s American Ride Tour With Guest Trace Adkins – Toby Keith brings his boots and guitar to The Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Casino Resort on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.

• Full story/details/info: Toby Keith’s American Ride Tour
• Buy Tickets Now: Toby Keith Las Vegas Tickets
  Toby Keith Worldwide Tickets

Via Brasil Las Vegas Steakhouse Announces World Cup Football Events – Adam Gomes, Via Brasil Steakhouse General Manager says “As Las Vegas gears up for the World Cup, we wanted to give our customers a chance to celebrate football in a fun and interactive way.” He further adds, we will feature coverage of the games on screens throughout the restaurant, as well as, victory celebrations after every game Brazil wins.

• Full story/details/info: Via Brasil Las Vegas Steakhouse World Cup Events

Phantom Las Vegas Military “Ticket Match” Extended Through July 4 Due To Popular Demand – When you see Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular, so will our troops! Due to popular demand, Phantom has extended the military “ticket match” through July 4 to honor our military heroes. For every full-priced ticket purchased by the public, Phantom will donate one ticket to the men and women of Nellis and Creech Air Force Base.

• Full story/details/info: Phantom Las Vegas Military “Ticket Match” Extended
• Buy Tickets Now: Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Las Vegas Tickets

Wynn Las Vegas & Sinatra Family Wine Event June 18 – On Friday, June 18, Wynn Resorts teams with the Sinatra Family to host a special celebration in honor of Come Fly With Me, the award-winning 2007 Sinatra Family Estates Cabernet Sauvignon. Named for Frank’s first number one album, the limited-edition wine is the collaboration of Danielle Price, Executive Wine Director of Wynn Resorts, and Sinatra’s three children, Tina, Nancy, and Frank Jr., and granddaughter Amanda Erlinger.

• Full story/details/info: Wynn Las Vegas & Sinatra Family Wine Event

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Hit The Heights - with Victor H. Royer. In this issue, I present Hit The Heights™, by Aristocrat, and a short description of the game and how to play it.

Many years ago – and it doesn’t seem so many years ago to me – there was a casino on the Las Vegas Strip called: Vegas World. It was built, owned, and operated by Bob Stupak, a legendary Las Vegas gambler, entrepreneur, and visionary. I knew Bob, and spent time with him at Vegas World, in a little booth in the coffee shop that served as his de-facto office. I also spent time with him at his house, a sprawling old-Las Vegas mansion with the decor to match.

Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour – The Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour with Maverick Helicopters gives you a birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Land on the Hualapai Indian territory on the Grand Canyon floor. Fly back through the Grand Canyon on your way to the Bowl of Fire full of flaming red rock formations.

Click To Book Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Hey Ted, where are all the questions and responses that used to be here? Welcome to our revamped Members Mania area, where I personally answer reader questions. We’re now posting each of them online in a blog format. So many great questions didn’t make it into the newsletter. By moving them online, we’ll have unlimited room.

We’ll post every link in the newsletter. You may also enter our RSS feed into your reader ( http://ask.accessvegas.com/feed/ ) if you use RSS feeds. Or simply bookmark and check http://ask.accessvegas.com every morning to see what is new!

• Flying To Las Vegas, Immigration Lines Too Long?
• Artwork and Paintings On Las Vegas Area Overpasses
• Las Vegas $20 Check-In Trick At Riviera
• Australian Country Girl Loves Las Vegas – Looking For Like-Minded Friends
• Trouble Getting A Drink At Palazzo Las Vegas

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

• Four Queens’ L.A. Comedy Club June Schedule

• The Beach Boys Headline At The Venetian Las Vegas Pool Party

• Station Casinos Dives Into Summer With Free House Entertainment

• Steel Panther Returns To Green Valley Ranch Las Vegas

• Cannery Casino Las Vegas Hosts Eighth Annual Blues, Brews And BBQ Festival on June 19

• Hash House A Go Go Serves Up Manly Meals And Drinks For Father’s Day

• The Artisan Hotel In Las Vegas Makes A Stunning Comeback

• Reliquary Water Sanctuary & Spa At Hard Rock Las Vegas Is A Worship-Worthy Oasis

• Ryan O’Connor Eats His Feelings’ Tour Across America Hits Las Vegas

• The Spinners Perform Their Timeless Hits In Las Vegas June 26

• Hash House A Go Go Holds Photo Contest For Father’s Day

• Primm Valley Casino Resorts Invites All To Experience A Booming Independence Day – Family Friendly Event Features A $40,000 Fireworks Spectacular

• City Of Henderson Celebrates Independence Day – Residents Will Enjoy Festive Activities, Live Entertainment And Fireworks

• It’s going to be a Beatles summer

  Cirque du Soleil – The Beatles: LOVE Show Tickets
  Sgt. Pepper Live: Cheap Trick Show Tickets
  B – BeatleShow Tribute! Show Tickets

• Celine Dion to make Las Vegas return

  Celine Dion Show Tickets

• A year into its run at Imperial Palace, vocal group Human Nature is on solid ground

  Human Nature Show Tickets

• Risk pays off for ‘Jersey Boys’ star Faugno

  Jersey Boy Show Tickets

• West of Santa Fe Closes after Twenty Years in Forum Shops (with video)

• The Artisan Hotel is reborn (with video)

• World Series of Poker gets underway at the Rio

• Hollywood finally portrays modern Vegas glitz

• True Beauty Ties Las Vegas Gambling Into Reality Show

• Fight Night in Las Vegas something to behold

• Tropicana Las Vegas redone in South beach motif

• Top 10 celeb spotting tips in Vegas

• Las Vegas: The new home of the celebrity chef

• In Las Vegas, slots were not a lure, but Liberace Museum and neon light tour were dazzling

• Getting wet and wild at Sin City’s hottest beach bashes

• Look-but-don’t-touch football hits Vegas (Lingerie Bowl)

• Smashburger is a superior alternative to the usual fast food banality

• Report predicts commercial-market upturn in 2011

• Fight over CityCenter payments continues

• Wynn takes swipe at Vegas competitors

• Partying in Vegas ‘film research’

• Allegiant Air Enhances Las Vegas Service To Wichita

• Todd English’s conceptual ‘urban bar’ is a CityCenter hit – and deservedly so

• Keeping tracks – Another railway company unveils plans for train routes from LV

• Vegas pull may swipe proposed Pacquiao-Mayweather bout from Cowboys Stadium

• New world record for longest poker game

• Steve Irwin’s family still plans zoo for Vegas

• Epic fight looms in Nevada as Republicans pick nominee to challenge Senate leader Harry Reid

• Phoenix-to-Vegas high-speed train proposed Phoenix-to-Vegas high-speed train proposed

• Vegas Home Prices Stable, Inventory Rising

• A tour of Vegas, and its secrets

• LV construction spending up in April

• Millions of Stimulus Dollars come to Nevada

• Record heat roasts Las Vegas valley

• Las Vegas Film Festival reaching out to community with discounts, choices

• Judge OKs auction of Station Casinos properties

• Problems continue in high-rise condo market

• being bumped could mean $1,300 for airline passengers

• Union OKs new pact featuring salary cut (Clark County School District)

• Officials: businesses not sold on Nevada

• Local economic index edges down during May

• Aria competes with larger pool parties by being ‘a little more high-end’

• Silver State Capital Advisors eyeing Station assets

• Casino licensees told to stay clear of Internet gambling companies

• Lawyers view TV counterparts (The Defenders)

• burlesque Hall of Fame museum unveiled for first time

• bankruptcy filings in Nevada up 13.6 percent in April

• First 100-degree day of 2010 marks start of hot season

• CCSD officials set sights on ‘No Child’ changes

• The Vegas lounge singer refuses to die

• He’s all set: Designer takes flair from stage to Strip

• Embattled governor has piloted state during its deepest recession

• GLVAR reports increase in single-family home prices

• Hit the road in Arizona to get your kicks on Route 66

• 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
• Memorial Day, U.S May 28-30 (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

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

11′th Anniversary Issue!

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:

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Memorial Day Weekend usually kicks off summer for most people, and we’re no exception. Oh sure… we’ve had pool weather pretty much since April (with the exception of a couple of cold snaps), but we’ve now entered the “heat” of the summer. Our first 100 degree day is predicted this coming week and overnight lows are only dipping into the 70’s. The kids had spring break in the spring. It’s now time for adults to enjoy a summer break here in Las Vegas!

My How Time Flies When You Don’t Know What You Are Doing – May 20, 2010 marked the official 11′th Anniversary of this little ole newsletter. We mentioned it last issue, but we’ll consider this the official one (last newsletter came out May 19). So welcome to our 11′th anniversary issue.

We were arguably the very first Las Vegas blog. Other news columns were online, but I was the first guy who took what I was doing and seeing (and thinking) about Las Vegas and putting it online on a regular basis. It actually started as the concept of an email newsletter, but I had the skills to post each issue online so we started archiving them. (This was long before blog software… you knew HTML or forget about it). When modern day blog software came along, we integrated all the archives.

Back Issues Available Online – The Venetian had just opened when I put the first two issues out. If you are curious to go back and read what I had to say (and what the newsletter looked like back then), check out 1) May 20, 1999 Issue and 2) May 27, 2009 Issue. If you go to our Access Vegas Insider Vibe site, you can use the drop down menu at the top to go back and read any newsletter from any of the past 11 years. Might be a fun walk down history lane (or cold even be a helpful research tool for those piecing together Las Vegas events at a past time).

How Did This All Happen? – We know that many of you just want to get to the Vegas info. If that is you, keep scrolling. However… if you are curious about how a tiny website and a few message board posts turned into this newsletter and our comprehensive Las Vegas website, click to read:

• How Did AccessVegas.com and Access Vegas Insider Vibe Newsletter Get Started?

Four New Las Vegas Arenas? – Four different companies are proposing to build brand new 20,000 seat arenas here in Las Vegas. Standing in the way is a very spirited debate over partially using public money to build one of them. We are on the verge of losing events the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), major fights, and Country Music Awards to the new JerryDome in Dallas (or whatever they are calling that mind-bending new stadium the Dallas Cowboys play in). NFR in particular has played a major role in packing out our town during the first two weeks of December (a time which otherwise would be completely dead here).

Pictured: Proposed Silver State Arena

While all of that is sorted out, here are the four options:

• Silverado Ranch Area – This is nearly 10 miles south of The Strip. Nice area to live (I lived there for a number of years). Lousy spot for an arena. It isn’t centrally located for residents and visitors would NOT be happy about the expensive cab ride (or even a shuttle bus ride).
• Harrahsrena – Harrah’s (the company) bulldozed blocks and blocks of land behind their Las Vegas Strip hotels and would really like to have an arena there. (Hey Harrah’s… you could have left Bourbon Street Hotel there for a while… that was the best dive casino around). This location has great access for visitors and could singlehandedly revive the monorail. However, parking and access for locals would be messy.
• North Strip – The front-runner (partially because of the involvement of longtime local businesswoman and current GOP Senatorial Candidate Sue Lowden) is the land between the Riviera and Sahara. Centrally located for both visitors and locals and would give a much needed boost to the North Strip. The actually have a name and website: Silver State Arena.
• Downtown – For years, various arena proposals for downtown have been floating around. Would bring more Strip visitors downtown and really fast track the gentrification of the downtown area.

We’ll keep you posted!

Cinco De Mayo Video – Better late then never on getting this to you: O’ Shea’s held an Uno de Mayo party on the Las Vegas Strip May 1, 2010. This was a Saturday so O’ Shea’s corporate parent Harrah’s decided to jump the gun with an Uno de Mayo celebration and take advantage of weekend crowds.

We headed over to grab some really fun video of the event, including a spontaneous party that broke out in front of Rockhouse next door. It’s less than 5 minutes long, lots of fun and energy, and especially if you haven’t been to town lately, this will give you that Vegas Vibe that your brain is begging for. Pictures from event:

Click To Watch: Uno De Mayo Las Vegas Street Party

Comment, Comment, Comment – We now have a comment box open at the bottom this newsletter! Did a particular story catch your eye? Want to make your voice heard of just let off a little steam? Scroll to the bottom of the page and speak your peace.

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!

• Click to read full “Pink Sugar Jam” At Rhumbar Las Vegas story.

Aria At CityCenter Names Poker Room For Poker Great Phil Ivey – The ARIA Resort & Casino Poker Room will officially reveal its exclusive one-table high-limit room to guests Saturday, May 22. Named in honor of seven-time World Series of Poker Champion and popular professional Phil Ivey, ‘The Ivey Room’ will offer poker players the opportunity to play some of the world’s highest-limit games in Las Vegas’ newest and hottest resort. “We were thrilled that Phil agreed when we asked if he would consider putting his name on our high-limit room. Phil is a great guy, a long-time friend both of the MGM MIRAGE family and mine personally, and remains a fan favorite in the world of poker,” said Bill McBeath, president and chief operating officer of ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter.

• Click to read full Aria At CityCenter Names Poker Room story.

Johnny Smalls In Hard Rock Las Vegas Dishes Up New Happy Hour Specials – Johnny Smalls, the new restaurant by Dolce Group and the Nightlife Group at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, introduces a new Happy Hour with 2-for-1 specialty cocktails at the bar and select appetizers starting at only $4. Indulge on small bites such as the mouth-watering Meaty Balls, crispy Tater Fries and scrumptious Mac n Cheese Flatbread just to name a few. To wash down the appetizers Johnny Smalls specialty cocktails offer a little flair to that ordinary cocktail.

• Click to read full Johnny Smalls Dishes Up New Happy Hour Specials story.

Photo credit: Shelley Mansholt PR

The World’s Happiest Mayor Oscar Goodman officially proclaimed May 25 “Rick Faugno Day” in Las Vegas to coincide with National Tap Dance Day in honor of Rick and his triple-threat dancing, singing and acting contributions to our great city through his role as the original Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” and his critically-acclaimed hit one-man show, “Songs My Idols Sang and (Danced).” See Rick in Jersey Boys: Jersey Boys Tickets

KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers From Celebrated Chef Kerry Simon Opens Soon At Harrah’s Las Vegas – Harrah’s Las Vegas is pleased to announce a partnership with celebrated Chef Kerry Simon, in a brand new concept – KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers – offering the ultimate in burger selections with the Simon flair. The restaurant is scheduled to open in early July 2010 in the heart of Harrah’s Las Vegas resort, serving lunch, dinner and late-night bites. Dubbed the “Rock-n-Roll” Chef by Rolling Stone magazine, Simon has created a brand of sexy restaurants with a distinct vibe. At KGB, Simon will take inspiration from his victory on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” where he prevailed over Iron Chef Cat Cora with the ultimate burger.

• Click to read full KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers Opens Soon At Harrah’s Las Vegas story.

Habanero Hot Wings This Summer At Tacos & Tequila Las Vegas (With Recipe) – Tacos & Tequila (T&T) has introduced its newest menu item, a mouthwatering dish that is sure to bring on the heat. The habañero hot wings will tantalize the taste buds with a spicy blend of habañero peppers fused with tangy lime juice for a zesty new summer recipe, available for $10 throughout the summer at T&T. “Habañeros are one of the spiciest peppers, so we added a few key ingredients to counterbalance the heat,” said Executive Chef Saul Ortiz. “The overall flavor is a zesty blend of tangy, spicy and sweet.”

• Click to read full Habanero Hot Wings At Tacos & Tequila story.

Join Alize Las Vegas At Taste Of The Nation – Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Las Vegas is part of the nation’s premier culinary benefit dedicated to making sure no kid in America grows up hungry. Each spring, the nation’s hottest chefs and mixologists donate their time, talent and passion at more than 45 events across the United States and Canada, with one goal in mind: to raise the critical funds needed to end childhood hunger. Join Alizé’s Chef Mark Purdy and Pastry Chef Tammy Alana at the upcoming Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Las Vegas Event.

• Click to read full Join Alize Las Vegas At Taste Of The Nation story.

“Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick Comes To Paris Las Vegas – Beginning June 11, “Sgt. Pepper Live” featuring Cheap Trick will debut at Paris Las Vegas. Experience Cheap Trick as they perform a live interpretation of one of the most beloved rock albums in history during a limited engagement only at the Paris Las Vegas Theater. Cheap Trick rocks Las Vegas in this dazzling musical experience featuring world-famous rock stars, the Sgt. Pepper Symphony Orchestra and a live interpretation of one of the most beloved rock albums in history. “Sgt. Pepper Live” featuring Cheap Trick is a celebration of The Beatles’ influential album, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

• Click to read full “Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick story.

• “Sgt. Pepper Live” Featuring Cheap Trick Las Vegas Tickets

Knight Lights Up The Las Vegas Hilton With Rock n’ Roll History – Robert M. Knight, one of the most acclaimed photographers in rock n’ roll history is bringing his art to the Las Vegas Hilton to be both enjoyed and even purchased by visitors starting May 28th with a huge musical kick off event. For more than four decades, Knight has captured iconic images of music legends including Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Carlos Santana, Van Halen and Jeff Beck. His images are quintessential pieces of pop-culture mythology.

• Click to read full Knight Lights Up The Las Vegas Hilton story.

Aria Resort & Casino Featured In Upcoming Season Of ABC’s The Bachelorette – The newest Bachelorette, Ali Fedotowsky, will experience a special date at Las Vegas’ newest and hottest resort destination, ARIA Resort & Casino, in the second episode of The Bachelorette, Season 6. The episode will feature a unique, one-on-one date (an intimate pool party at LIQUID; gourmet dinner in a luxurious Sky Villa; and a private musical performance in HAZE Nightclub). Heartbroken after choosing her job over a shot at true love during the last season of The Bachelor, Ali is now ready to give love another try.

• Click to read full Aria Resort & Casino Featured In Upcoming Season Of ABC’s The Bachelorette story.

Gambling Talk: Video Slots – Banana King: Panther Magic™ - with Victor H. Royer. With apologies to Horace Greeley for paraphrasing his famous “Go West, young man!” slogan, let us here please be clear that this wonderful game from Aristocrat is for all the ladies, as well as all the men. Young – or as old as me (ehm, let’s not get into that just this moment) – the point is well taken: This is a 25-line double stand-alone progressive, with two progressive jackpots, and not just one. And the best news? You can win on this machine without having to compete with other players, because this progressive is just for each machine, and not linked to others. So, you can always look for the good progressive amounts, and not only enjoy the great base game, and the many bonuses, but also the healthy jackpots.

Click to Read Complete Article…

Featured Tour – Enjoy Las Vegas!

Black Canyon River Rafting Tour – Enjoy calm waters and magnificent scenery on this unique rafting day trip between the Black Canyon cliffs on the Colorado River. Relax and admire beauty of Black Canyon and views of Hoover Dam while your experienced and knowledgeable guide shares the history of this magnificent geological area.

Click To Book Black Canyon River Rafting Tour Now!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

As I alluded to last issue, we love you so much that we are expanding Members Mania! We’ll be creating an entire online section for it and be able to answer so many more reader questions for everyone to enjoy (and more importantly learn from). This is a very popular feature of the newsletter and I’m thrilled that we can expand it!

Don’t worry: We’ll summarize and link to every single one of them here in the newsletter. You won’t miss a thing. If all goes well, we’ll launch with the new format next issue.

For those of you who want to jump the gun and get the posts as they happen, the XML feed for that blog will be http://ask.accessvegas.com/feed/

Need your fix now? Members Mania has been part of this newsletter for many years. Head over to our newsletter site and use the drop down menu to work your way through the archives. I’m sure there is plenty of Members Mania information (and lots of other great stuff) from over the years that you’ll still find very valuable!

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

• Human Nature Extends Contract With Imperial Palace Las Vegas

  Human Nature Tickets

• The Contemporary Arts Center Presents Reign Of Glass By Artist Erin Stellmon

• Qua Baths & Spa At Caesars Palace Offers A Variety Of “Just For Men” Services Perfect For Father’s Day

• Jes, Queen Of Rocktronicia, Heats Up The Palms Casino Resort With A Series Of Summer Performances/a>

• Cabo Wabo Cantina Las Vegas Presents June Entertainment Schedule

• Beauty Bar To Host Live Performances In Support Of Arbo De Vivo

• Crown Theater Inside The Rio Las Vegas Announces Tribute Acts

• Campus MovieFest Announces The 2010 International Grand Finale At Wynn Las Vegas

• Wayne Brady Returns His Improvisational Genius To The Venetian Las Vegas

• The Orleans Summer Comedy Series Starring Tom Papa Returns June 25-26 with Special Guest Bill Burr

• Celebrate Independence At The Suncoast Showroom With The Scintas July 3-4

• Happy Hour Is Happenin’ At Cabo Wabo Cantina

• Las Vegas Rocks Cafe Entertainment Lineup

• Ten Of The World’s Most Celebrated DJs Host A Sizzling Memorial Day Weekend At Wet Republic

• Elvis Presley’s Legacy Can Be Found in Las Vegas, Palm Springs

  Cirque du Soleil – Viva Elvis Tickets

• A new player in the high-speed rail race (with video)

• Gateway Center Approved for Downtown Las Vegas (with video)

• City of Las Vegas approves final budget (with video)

• I-Team: Monorail Officials Made Millions While Train Struggled (with video)

• Artist commissioned to liven up downtown Las Vegas (with video)

• More tourists predicted to hit Vegas for Memorial Day Weekend (with video)

• Iconic Rock Photographer Opens Gallery in Las Vegas (with video)

• WSOP Main Event To Start Soon, With Players Preparing In Vegas

• Energy debate continues as utility weighs saving money or electricity

• Take the plunge at SkyJump in Vegas

• Las Vegas Unemployment Rate At 14.2 Percent

• Las Vegas Bowl licensed through 2013 season

• After a down year, Vegas hoping for a rebound

• Las Vegas No. 2 city for divorce in United States

• Despite Criticism, Analysts Say Las Vegas Will Recover

• Passenger Numbers Slump At Vegas Airport

• Vegas and kids don’t mix

• Cool by the Pool at Las Vegas Hilton embraces relaxed atmosphere for guests

• Las Vegas Holds Number 1 Spot as Trade Show Destination

• Lou Ruvo Brain Center: Opening the doors to the mind

• Swish’s affordable shabu shabu and sukiyaki dining lets you be the cook

• Gov. Gibbons and Perini Meet to Talk About CityCenter Debts

• 4 plans compete to provide LA-Vegas train service

• Free Things to Do In and Around Las Vegas

• Vegas is low-cost gateway to parks

• Cleveland Clinic marks completion of Las Vegas brain center

• What happens in Vegas…

• Miss Universe pageant is Vegas-bound

• Las Vegas To Get Glimpse Of ‘Mob Museum’

• Las Vegas Locos Holding Cheerleader Auditions

• Vegas builds what it doesn’t need (Housing Market)

• Apartment vacancy shrinks locally in first quarter

• Economist foresaw economic pain before it delivered blows

• Report: Vegas Is No. 1 Summer Destination

• New National Recreation Trail To Open In Southern Nevada

• Mob Museum taking shape downtown

• Organizers: Vegas mob museum could open in a year

• Shuttered since 2006, Lady Luck showing new life in downtown Las Vegas

• Hard Rock Hotel Hires New CEO

• New nonstop air service between France and Las Vegas

• Plenty of action as WSOP opens in VegasPlenty of action as WSOP opens in Vegas

• Businesses near Nevada border popular for lottery players

• Las Vegas Gambles on $8.5 Billion CityCenter

• Jazz band ends Gold Coast run

• Town Square visitors can now take carriage ride around outdoor mall

• Young poker face is back for more (2009 WSOP Champion)

• A compelling rationale for a new arena

• Photo exhibit revisits Nevada’s past, both famous and forgotten

• Tourism, construction stall economic index

• Clark County ranks high in employment drop

• Paul Rodriguez sees Latino link for Tropicana

• Strip entertainers choose whom they’d like to see play Vegas

• The Palms gets the weekend started early with Ditch Friday

• Hard Rock’s pool party Rehab is the only one in town with own television show

• Wynn sets the bar for pool clubbing (Encore Beach Club)

• Comic Paul Rodriguez’s ‘Whole Enchilada’ getting a little stale

• Cold food, bad service taint what Gordon Biersch Brewery should have down pat

• Dana White Calls UFC Las Vegas’ home team

• Good comes from worlds colliding

• The smoked-potato soup lagniappe was a sign of good things to come at Strip House

• Peak-pricing test will mean high power bills for summer

• Pahrump Valley Winery winning awards, promoting Nevada-grown grapes

• Hamburger celebrated in many ways at Flamingo

• Wynn declares $5.2 billion Desert Inn makeover ‘finally done’

• Keyhole Canyon offers a glimpse at archaeological wonders

• 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

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

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.

My 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!

• Click to read full Celine Dion Voted America’s Favorite Singer/Musician story.

• Celine Dion Las Vegas Tickets

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.

• Click to read full The “Black Mamba Margarita” story.

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.

• Click to read full City’s Hottest Chefs Cook To Fight Childhood Hunger story.

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.

• Click to read full Playmate of the Year 2010 story. PS More photos in the full version of the story!

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.

• Click to read full Roger Waters To Bring Tour To MGM Grand story.

• Roger Waters Las Vegas Tickets

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.

• Click to read full Lagasse’s Stadium Welcomes UFC Fighter Shane Carwin story.

• UFC Las Vegas Tickets

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.

• Click to read full 8th Annual Poker Run On June 6 story.

• UFC Las Vegas Tickets

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.”

• Click to read full Fremont Street Experience Is Getting Groovy With “Summer Of The ’70s” story.

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.

• Click to read full The Forum Shops At Caesars Announces Expansions story.

Gambling 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 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

• Billy Idol To Perform At The Pearl At The Palms

  Billy Idol Tickets

• Disney’s The Lion King and Mandalay Bay Celebrate One-Year Anniversary With Roaring Locals’ Deal

  The Lion King Tickets

• Playboy Comedy Announces June Headliners

  Playboy Comedy Tickets

• City Of Henderson Reveals June Lineup Free Live Performances And Family-Friendly Activities

• East Side Projects Continues With New Showcase Installation “Ultimately” Through May 29, 2010

• Lagasse’s Stadium Is The Place To Be This Summer To Catch All The Exciting FIFA World Cup Action

• Celebrate With Girlfriends At Spa Mio

• The Burlesque Hall Of Fame Weekend Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary At The Plaza Hotel And Casino June 3-6, 2010

• B.B. King To Headline Two Nights At Intimate Namesake Venue At The Mirage

• 24th Annual “Ribbon Of Life” Production Show – HIV/AIDS Fundraising Spectacular June 13 At The Las Vegas Hilton

• Human Nature’s bet pays off in spades in Las Vegas

  Human Nature Tickets

• Carlos Santana adds Vegas residency to summer plans

  Carlos Santana Tickets

• Priscilla Presley talks about New Las Vegas Show Viva ELVIS (with video)

  Cirque du Soleil – Viva Elvis Tickets

• Tropicana unveils new suites (with video)

• The ‘Third Straw’: Ensuring a reliable water supply for Las Vegas (with video)

• Nevada Officials Consider Fees on Miles Driven (with video)

• Old Mormon Fort a hidden treasure of Las Vegas (with video)

• Empty Strip Malls a Common Sight in Las Vegas (with video)

• Tourists visiting Vegas have yet to spend any real cash (with video)

• Four Companies Want to Build Arena in Las Vegas (with video)

• Gloria, Emilio Estefan get star on Vegas Strip

• Spanish chef plans Vegas restaurants

• Report: Estefan Show Coming To Tropicana

• Authentic New Orleans fare makes Lola’s a tasty spot for business lunch

• County Lawmakers Vote to Preserve Nevada Wilderness

• Las Vegas Railway purchases first trainset

• CityCenter subcontractors face financial pressure

• It’s reset time for valley real estate, official says

• When Las Vegas actually became a part of Nevada

• City Center Las Vegas Continues to Struggle

• Las Vegas Airport Bets Big On Expansion

• Viva Las Vegas with the Fremont Street Experience

• A foreign sport’s intriguing Las Vegas history (Jai Alai)

• Las Vegas home prices show small annual increase

• Party Train’s Destination Is Sin City

• Las Vegas Coyotes? Yeah, right (NHL)

• Caesars gets a worthy snackery with Bryan Ogden’s slightly sinful Munchbar

• California company to build solar manufacturing plant in Las Vegas Valley

• Poker Enthusiasts Heading To Las Vegas For World Series Of Poker

• Encore Beach Club to Open in Vegas

• Beyond Vegas’ Strip, natural wonders are good bet

• Vegas scores as place to watch, wager on sports

• Las Vegas magician files for bankruptcy

• RANT: Why Andy Rooney Did Las Vegas A Favor

• County Officials Hear Proposals for Sports Arena

• ‘Gloria Estefan: the musical’ to hit Vegas

• Former defendant in Ted Binion murder case paroled

• Las Vegas abounds with quirky, pretty and fun souvenir photo settings

• MGM Mirage Files Counterclaim Against Perini

• H&M to Open Its Largest Store in Las Vegas

• Numbers show casinos aren’t being tight-fisted

• Market downturn for shops creates opportunities for entrepreneurs

• Aria unveils high-limit poker room named for champion player Phil Ivey

• Distressed sales push valley land values downward

• Henderson Named Among Best Places To Retire

• Does Las Vegas Need A New Arena?

• Chef Kerry Simon to add burger bar at Harrah’s

• Workers to begin underwater blasting at Lake Mead site

• City Council OKs budget with 205 layoffs

• Ex-NFL quarterback Cunningham now calls plays for Henderson church

• Loud music aims to add to energy at CityCenter’s Aria casino

• Handing out pink slips – Scores of city workers to lose jobs

• After Miss USA comes the universe

• Tropicana’s showroom plans up in the air

• Restaurants cater to those seeking outdoor eating experience plus a little people-watching

• UNLV president announces program cuts

• Miss Michigan captures Mis USA crown in Las Vegas

• Sheriff says pact makes Arizona law unnecessary

• Taxable sales fall by 4.5 percent in February

• Airport traffic falls for second straight month

• Goodsprings stays true to its pioneer past

• 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

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:

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.

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

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!

• Click to read full Michael Buble’s Crazy Love Tour story.

• Michael Buble Las Vegas Tickets

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.

• Click to read full Miss Nevada At Buca Di Beppo story.

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.

• Click to read full Cabo Wabo Cantina Memorial Day Weekend story.

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.

• Click to read full Rush 2010 North American Time Machine Tour story.

• Rush Las Vegas Tickets

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.

• Click to read full Erik Estrada Celebrates Cinco de Mayo At Tacos & Tequila story with additional pictures!

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.

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.

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.

• Click to read full Station Casinos Turns Free May House Entertainment story.

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.

• Click to read full Wined Up Fridays At Terra Verde story.

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!

Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour – Journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape. After you fly through the Valley of Fire your journey will take you to the Grand Canyon.

Descend further and deeper into the Grand Canyon and land on the canyon floor, located just above the mighty Colorado River. Enjoy a champagne toast, beverages, light snacks and many incredible photo opportunities.

Highlights: * Land in Grand Canyon * Snack included * See Valley of Fire * Sunset flight over Las Vegas Strip

Click To Book Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

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.

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

Tom Guesman, Ohio

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!

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

• 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

• Sheryl Crow: Saturday, Sept. 11 At The Joint At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

  Sheryl Crow Tickets

• Blue Man Group To Perform National Anthem As The Las Vegas 51s Face The Tacoma Rainiers

  Blue Man Group Tickets

• Cher Celebrates 2nd Anniversary At The Colosseum At Caesars Palace By Releasing New Set Of Tickets For September And October

  Cher Tickets

• M Resort Spa Casino Hosts Rock ‘N Roll Wine’s Annual Reggae Pool Party

• N9NE Steakhouse And Nove Italiano Celebrate The Spring Season With Seasonal Fare

• Bernard’s Bistro At The Village Introduces New Weekend Brunch Menu

• The Stars Of Hockey & Hollywood Are Ready To Rock At The 2010 NHL Awards In Las Vegas

• Legendary Comedian Don Rickles Returns To The Orleans Showroom

• MGM Grand And Mandalay Bay Chefs Honored At 2010 James Beard Foundation Awards

• Two New Guest Comedians Join “Sammy Shore’s Barking Mad Comedy Jam” At Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel

• Four Queens’ L.A. Comedy Club May Schedule

• Mac King Celebrates 10 Years of Laughter and Magic

• Keep Things Saucy At The Signature At MGM Grand With “Signature Dish”

• ‘Vegas The Show’ Will Be Launched This Summer In The Embassy Theatre At The Las Vegas Rocks Cafe

• Player Feedback Drives Changes For 4th Annunal Binion’s Poker Classic

• Mac King’s magic, Popovich’s ‘Pet Theater’ target the kid in all of us

  Mac King Comedy Magic Show Tickets
  Comedy Pet Theater Tickets

• Human Nature Extends Vegas Run

  Human Nature Tickets

• Cheap Trick’s Sgt. Pepper tribute returns to the Strip

  Sgt. Pepper Live: Cheap Trick Tickets

• Competing railroads feud over route between LA and Vegas (with video)

• Last check out call for Lake Las Vegas Ritz Carlton (with video)

• Las Vegas Sees Big Convention Business (with video)

• Home prices go up in Las Vegas for the first time in years (with video)

• Commissioner pushing to regulate smut peddlers on the Las Vegas Strip (with video)

• Tropicana Las Vegas unveils the first rooms of its renovation

• Mixed views as homebuyer credit ends

• Las Vegas Home Sales Surge

• Las Vegas Food Festival Draws Star Chefs

• Bikini-Clad Skydivers Descend On Vegas Strip

• Report: Vegas Rental Rates Rebound Slightly

• Wall Street Comparison Offends Las Vegas, Ensign Says

• Las Vegas Remains Foreclosure Capital

• Looking for New York-style slice in Las Vegas?

• New Red Rock fees to take effect May 1

• Celeb chef Stone, NBC’s Morales to host Miss USA at Planet Hollywood

• Las Vegas lags U.S. economic strides

• Curiocity: My Vegas Vacation

• Vegas budget deficit worse than thought

• Vegas Is A Cheap Jumping-Off Point To National Parks

• In the kitchen with Joel Robuchon

• Buy-ins up as players try to avoid missing World Series Of Poker

• Cashing in around Vegas: Nature offers plenty of action away from the Strip

• When Wynn speaks, gaming listens

• Fontainebleau contractors share experiences, lessons from massive project failure

• Valley retail market sees first-quarter flourish

• State tax grab could hurt downtown’s development, mayor says

• World Series Of Poker In Las Vegas Less Than A Month Away

• Layoffs may not cure Las Vegas budget woes

• Vegas Ranks No. 3 On ‘Nightlife’ List

• Fremont Street shows off old, new Las Vegas

• The Arts Factory recovers from the closure of Paymon’s with the new Bar + Bistro

• Las Vegas suits Miss USA contestants

• Las Vegas: Sin City goes upmarket

• Nevada governor to meet with builder over CityCenter

• Frederick’s of Hollywood Gets Into Bed with the Hard Rock Vegas

• Casino Stocks Rise on Vegas Revenue

• Vegas Museum Celebrates Liberace’s Birthday

• Tropicana Remodels Rooms, Plans New Pool

• HRH Beach Club Ups the Ante in Las Vegas

• MonteLago Village Resort has new owner

• Officials cautious despite rise in visitor volume

• Visitor volume rises again; LVCVA releases proposed budget

• Nevada Gaming Win Down Slightly In March

• Helldorado organizers aim to smooth out rough spots, return to heyday

• ‘Housewives’ star expresses outrage (Eva Longoria)

• Stratosphere takes new leap with thrill ride

• Bare pool lounge at Mirage offers ‘European-style sunbathing’ for uninhibited guests

• M Resort pool caters to those trying to avoid Strip craziness, prices

• Analysts: No immediate effect on McCarran with United-Continental merger

• 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