February 4th, 2006

Steve’s Las Vegas Quickies:

The bet is on:
Mayor Oscar Goodman will have to dress as Britney Spears and sing her songs for an hour on a street corner Tuesday if the Pittsburgh Steelers lose in the Super Bowl to the Seattle Seahawks. It’s part of his annual wager with Mark & Mercedes on KMXB-radio, FM 94.1.

Wynn Las Vegas sports book director Johnny Avello updated his Academy Awards odds after Tuesday’s nominations were announced. His favorites are: For best picture, “Brokeback Mountain” (3-to-5); for best director, Ang Lee (2-5); for best actor, Philip Seymour Hoffman (1-2); for best actress, Reese Witherspoon (7-5); for best supporting actor, Paul Giamatti (6-5); and for best supporting actress, Rachel Weisz (2-1). Odds are for entertainment purposes only.

The Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook once again has risen to the occasion and produced nearly 300 propositions for the Big Game. Jay Kornegay, who must work 24/7 tells the Hilton Hot Sheet, “If you don’t have an opinion on the Big Game, take a look at our props and we’ll give you one.” Now, that’s confidence! The Big Game is right around the corner, and the experts say, wager early if you don’t want to stand in line.

Menopause The Musical, which opened today (Wednesday, February 1) at the Las Vegas Hilton’s 300- seat Shimmer Cabaret, sold out its first show-and that was an afternoon show! “We knew it would be a hit in Las Vegas, we just didn’t realize it would be a hit from day one,” said Alan Glist, chairman of G Four Productions, the company that produces the hit show. Inspired by a hot flash and a bottle of wine, Writer/Producer Jeanie Linders created the show as a celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change.” Showtimes for Menopause The Musical® are Mon.-Tues. & Thurs. 7 p.m., Wed. 2 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m. & 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. (Dark Friday). Tickets are $49.50 (plus tax and service charge) and can be purchased at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by visiting www.lvhilton.com or calling 702-732-5755 or 1-800-222-5361.

Look for “Dragapella!” starring The Kinsey SicksÔ, to open in the Shimmer Cabaret (Tuesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m.) at the Las Vegas Hilton March 3. The Kinsey Sicks combine award-winning acappella singing, biting wit and over-the-top drag for what has been called “one of the more uniquely original (and thoroughly fun and entertaining) acts we have encountered in years” (Billboard Magazine) and have been praised for their “voices sweet as birdsong” (New York Times).

Artist LeRoy Neiman’s “The Game,” featuring five poker legends, was put on display Monday at the Bellagio poker room. In the scene: Lyle Berman, Chip Reese, Bobby Baldwin, Doyle Brunson and Chau Giang, playing no-limit hold ‘em, naturally.

Rumors have David Brenner appearing at the Flamingo Las Vegas when George Wallace has away time. Wallace just started his third year at the Flamingo.

Young magician Curtis Adams quietly closed shop at the Plaza at year’s end. He had been there since October. Hypnotist Anthony Cools moved into his new digs at the Excalibur last week. Expect the Excalibur to soon announce a fourth show, one that will share space on the hotel’s second floor with “The Thunder from Down Under.” Don’t be surprised if it’s portly comedian Louie Anderson.
reviewjournal.com — Living - MIKE WEATHERFORD

Director Franco Dragone is again returning to Wynn Las Vegas to tinker with “Le Reve,” the aquatic revue that made an underwhelming impression when it opened in April. The latest round of tweaks should make their way into the show by late February or early March. Conspirators who keep rumoring that the “Le Reve” pond will be drained for a Bette Midler showcase would have to wonder why Dragone would bother. They can always shift the Midler rumors over to the “Avenue Q” theater.
reviewjournal.com — Living - MIKE WEATHERFORD

Comedian Carole Montgomery, formerly of “Fantasy” at the Luxor, has joined the cast of Funny Business, the new comedy club at Krave.

Other cast members include Joe Trammel, Dave Russo, James Bean and Beverly Wines (Pudgy! Queen of Tease).

Shows are at 7 nightly.

The Sahara Hotel sign — which at the moment stands at the corner of Sahara Avenue and Paradise Road — is about to be moved to the Neon Museum’s Boneyard on Las Vegas Boulevard North, just south of Washington Avenue.

The sign will be split into three pieces for transport, which is scheduled to begin today after a news conference announcing the attraction called The Drive, taking over the 11 acres cleared by the departure of the sign.

The effort to salvage the La Concha Motel lobby looks like it has succeeded, board member Patrick Duffy said Monday. Nearly all of the $300,000 raised by the committee (to be matched by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority) is in place to have the structure moved from the Strip to the Boneyard, where it will serve as the lobby for the Neon Museum. That effort should also culminate in the spring, probably in April.

“Mamma Mia!” is conducting its annual revamping of its cast. All the lead characters are leaving, including Michael Piontek (Harry Bright), who dates to the original cast.

The big changes for the nearly three-year-old production (the show’s third anniversary is Feb. 23) will be reflected in a new lineup replete with performers who have Broadway underpinnings.

Stack, the new restaurant at The Mirage, drew its inspiration from Utah’s Bryce Canyon. Stacked and curvy African Mahogany resembles the reddish walls of the famed canyon. The menu: American steakhouse with contemporary American fare. The “hot rocks” appetizer features a marinated sirloin cooked at your table on a polished river rock heated to 350-plus degrees. Try the Peach Capirusca. For more information, call 792-7800.

In celebration of the Chinese New Year, Fin at The Mirage, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South, begins serving lunch today. The service, which will continue after the holiday, is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, with dim sum offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Dinner is 5:30 to 11 p.m. daily.

MGM Mirage sent a reminder this week that Danny Gans will indeed return to the stage at the Danny Gans Theatre at the Mirage on Feb. 7. He has been off since Oct. 30 to undergo and rehab from rotator cuff surgery.

Update on Purple Reign:
Jason and group also perform at Sunset Station on Thursday nights, Santa Fe Station on Friday and Saturday nights, and The House of Blues on Sunday nights. The Monte Carlo gig is Wednesdays.
(Thanks Kathi)

Rich Langlois, vice president of the new Hooters Hotel, hopes history doesn’t repeat itself this weekend. When the first Hooters opened 23 years ago in Clearwater, Fla., founding father Ed Droste wore a rented chicken suit on the street to drum up business. “I’m told the chicken suit is packed and if we’re not jammed this weekend, I’ve been informed I’ll be wearing that chicken suit on Tropicana Avenue.” Hooters opens to the public at 9 p.m. after a 6-9 p.m. media bash.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM: Project looks like a Rolling Stone

Society of Seven performer dies after stage collapse.
Vocalist who had lived in Las Vegas since ‘01 had stroke.

Gary Bautista, a vocalist with the variety act Society of Seven, died Monday of complications from a stroke he suffered while performing with the group in California on Saturday.

He was 54.A native of the Philippines, Bautista had been with the Hawaiian act since 1984, and was known both for his comic impressions and strong operatic singing voice.

He had lived in Las Vegas since the group began performing locally in 2001.

“Gary died doing something he loved and surrounded by people he loved,” said Tony Ruivivar, the group’s co-founder.

More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Feb-01-Wed-2006/news/5656378.html
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NORM: Project looks like a Rolling Stone

Rolling Stone magazine founder Jann Wenner plans to roll the dice in Las Vegas.

He’s lending the rock ‘n’ roll magazine’s name to a hotel and casino project, according to a published report.

The New York Observer on Wednesday reported that Wenner was in Las Vegas over the weekend, working on the $500 million deal to license the Rolling Stone name to real-estate developers who are behind the project.

The development would include a luxury hotel, a casino and a music venue that would host “the biggest and most important music acts,” the Observer said.

The Rolling Stone would be along the Harmon corridor, where a number of major hotel projects are planned.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM: Project looks like a Rolling Stone
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BELLAGIO’S BANYAN

The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Bellagio, just off the resort’s impressive lobby, has always been a favorite place of mine, but this time, it seems to have outdone itself. The good people who oversee the Conservatory, headed by Audra Danzak, have saved a Florida landmark and brought it to its new home in Las Vegas.

A famed banyan tree, which served as a famous Palm Beach, Florida landmark for more than 100 years, has been transported here where it proudly stands as the grandiose centerpiece of the Conservatory and will remain so for the 2006 Chinese New Year, Spring, Summer and Fall shows.

This remarkable 100-foot banyan tree was diagnosed with a fatal fungus and it was determined that the tree had to be destroyed in order to protect other trees in the area.

This is when Danzak had the vision and desire to create an unexpected and extraordinary display. The decision was made, but now it was a question of how to get this monster tree here. As you might imagine, it was no small undertaking. The tree had to be disassembled branch by branch during a week-long process in Palm Beach. Then 50-foot trailers (12 in all), had to be leased to bring the 200,000-pound tree to Las Vegas. Danzak and her horticulture staff of 140 spent a month directing the re-assembly process and preparing the tree for its debut.

During the Chinese New Year display, you’ll be able to walk through the banyan tree, with orchids and Spanish moss woven throughout its branches. For the Spring, Summer and Fall shows, this tree-gardening technique once again will be used and the tree will be reconfigured for each show to serve as the Conservatory’s centerpiece. A state-of-the-art sound system playing Bellagio’s own music, composed by Cirque du Soleil musicians, along with light and water features, will help bring the floral artistry to life. Danzak said, “As one of nature’s spectacular works of art, the tree deserves a prominent place among the many unique masterpieces housed in Bellagio.” The display will remain on exhibit until Nov. 26.
reviewjournal.com — Lenny’s Las Vegas
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HARRAH’S AND FLAMINGO LAS VEGAS CELEBRATE SUPER SUNDAY

Harrah’s and the Flamingo Las Vegas hold public viewings and exciting giveaways in celebration of football’s biggest event on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2006.

At Harrah’s, the big game will be shown in the Piano Bar, at Carnaval Court and Winning Streaks Sports Bar which will also serve football themed food and drink selections.

The Harrah’s sports book will also be offering t-shirt giveaways with a $50 parlay card wager.

Additionally, the big game will be shown — free of charge — in the sports books and every bar on the Harrah’s and Flamingo Las Vegas properties.
reviewjournal.com — Sports: Super Bowl Parties
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VegasTalk Radio Show - The ONLY Internet Radio Variety Show from Las Vegas ABOUT LAS VEGAS!!!

This week’s show for Thursday, February 2, 2006 contains:

An interview with Ingrid Jensen, the marketing director for the wonderful show “Le Reve” produced by Dragone playing at the Wynn Resort. Ingrid tells us about the show, some of the preparations and the story behind the scenes of producing one of the best shows on the Las Vegas Strip.

“Show Happenings” with Chuck Rounds - Chuck reviews the events happening this week in Las Vegas. http://www.igoshows.com

The “Vegas Confidential” call with Norm Clarke - live from his “Star trailer” on the TV lot of “Las Vegas”, Norm is voted “Most Connected” person in town and daily columnist for the Review Journal and author of the best selling “1,000 Naked Truths”. http://www.NormClarke.com

“Fine Dining” with Les Kincaid. http://www.LesKincaid.com

“The Godfather of Las Vegas”, Mark Wayman’s Insider Report http://www.godfatherlv.com

The weekly variety and entertainment show broadcasts LIVE and will be archived online at the VegasTalk Radio website (http://www.vegastalkradio.com/scian.asp?a=1327) by midnight the same day it plays.
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The Original Las Vegas Podcast

In this edition of the original Las Vegas podcast:

New Frontier plans
Imperial Palace accepts reservations until at least July 2007
GM test track at Sahara
MDA telethon returns to Las Vegas
Oceans 13-D?
Boardwalk closing info
Purple Reign relocates
Time magazine discusses the condo bust
Aladdin-Planet Hollywood breaks ground on its condo tower
Strat observation deck on the cheap
Your Dice Won’t Pass by Edison Rocket Train

You can listen to the Podcast here:
http://www.fivehundybymidnight.com/fhbm/
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“Lunchtime With Ira”

My friend and a personal supporter of my newsletter, Ira Sternberg, Vice-President of Communications & Community Relations at the Las Vegas Hilton does a weekly live Las Vegas talk Radio show which I find to be most interesting and informative.

Just go to www.lvhilton.com amd click on “Lunchtime With Ira Live” to hear the broadcast. It changes every Monday so be sure to check it out on a weekly basis.

While you are at the site, be sure to check out the LV Hilton’s website and you will be kept up to date on all the improvements that they are making.
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Minicasinos are just right size for some
By Liz Benston

Some of these small properties have hotels and a handful of table games, but most are slot joints with a restaurant, bar and maybe a lounge or a stage. They can make a few million dollars a year, in contrast with the hundreds of millions of dollars in gambling revenue generated by the bigger casinos .

They tend to have from 70 to 500 slots, a rarely noticed casino category that falls somewhere between the slot bars and restaurant taverns with perhaps a dozen or few dozen slots and the bigger local properties, which can have more than 1,000 slots.

Several of these overlooked smaller casinos are within a few miles of each other along Boulder Highway, a thoroughfare of motels and watering holes that was overshadowed by the construction of U.S. 95.

These smaller casinos tend to be in older neighborhoods on small parcels of land that limit their growth prospects.

More Here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2006/feb/02/520066588.html
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Brett’s Vegas Views
By Jackie Brett

Golden Rainbow will premiere a new special nightclub charity event “Naked Hearts” on Valentine’s Day and feature the sexiest performers from shows up and down the Strip. The night will feature live performances by cast members of Las Vegas production shows including “A New Day,” “Chippendales,” “Fantasy,” “Folies Bergere,” “La Cage,” “Mamma Mia,” Culture Shock, Missy Cochran Entertainment, MGM Grand Productions, The Vamps Girlie Revue and more.

In addition to the steamy performances, the dance floor will be writhing with tempting bodies and there will also be a kissing booth, chocolate massages and cupid aerialists. Tickets for Naked Hearts are $20 in advance; booth and bottle service reservations are also available. Doors open at 11 p.m. For tickets and information, call 702-384-2899.

Harrah’s afternoon headlining comedian and magician Mac King has paired with toy maker Fundex to create a series of magic tricks based on his nationally syndicated comic strip, Mac King’s Magic in a Minute. The colorful line of 11 fun and easy magic tricks will debut at the International Toy Fair Feb. 12-15, in New York City, where King will appear in person to speak about his latest venture and demonstrate the tricks.

The tricks, designed as a creative tool for learning the art of entertaining with magic, will be available under three series titles and price points, The Befuddling Series ($2.99) offers tricks such as “Pea Brained Monkey” and “Where’s the Dang Quarter.” The Flabbergasting and Colossal series ($4.99 and $9.99) offer an instructional DVD where King visually teaches the trick to the viewer and presents more elaborate tricks such as “Cereal Thriller,” “Monkey Guts” and the “Confoundingly Crazy Crate-O-Mystery.”

Each trick comes with a comic book, where colorful illustrations offer explanations to each trick as well as a Magic in a Minute trading card that lists an additional trick encouraging the user to enlist common items from around the house as props. In addition, each trick comes with a secret code that can be used to access another trick inside the Vault-O-Magic at magicinaminute.com. Beginning in February, magicinaminute.com will feature Mac King in QuickTime video performing each of the tricks in the series.

Jake and Elwood Blues - the Blues Brothers - captured in tribute by Dan Meisner and Joe Messina, respectively, returned to the “Legends in Concert” lineup at the Imperial Palace. The duo last appeared in Legends in January 2005.

Meisner and Messina are dynamic actors and accomplished musicians. Meisner began his Jake impersonation at a high school lip-sync show. Messina began his impersonator career as Beetlejuice while working as a sound technician at Universal Studios in Florida. The Blues Brothers replace the Rolling Stones in the current show, which also includes Prince, Shania Twain, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion and Elvis Presley. “Legends in Concert” is in its 23rd year.

The sounds of nature are setting the stage for a new event offering at The Mirage. The backdrop of Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat creates a thrilling new opportunity for those looking for a one-of-a-kind event. The spectacular setting of the animal care facility can comfortably accommodate cocktail receptions of up to 650. For those wanting a dinner soiree, groups for up to 400 may dine in the dramatic jungle setting.

Home to some of the world’s most exotic and rare animals including the Royal White Tigers of Nevada, the White Lions of Timbavati and a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, this popular Las Vegas destination now is available for private functions for a $10,000 facility fee that includes the services of the facility’s tour guides.

Guests may enjoy the tempting creations of The Mirage’s talented culinary staff for an additional fee of $150 per person for receptions or $185 per person for dinners. For information, contact The Mirage Catering Department at 800-939-9389.

http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/index.htm
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$4 Billion Sports Themed Resort Proposed
By Rick Garman

A new resort is being proposed for North Las Vegas that could be the ultimate dream-come-true for sports fanatics - so much so that they made that part of the name.

The $4 billion project, dubbed Ultimate Sports Resort, would feature 5,500 rooms, a casino, and several sporting and exhibition venues including a 26,000-seat arena, a 10,000 seat arena, a 5,000-seat aquatic arena, a bowling alley, an ice rink, and several other facilities of various sizes to accommodate other events. If it happens, it will go on a 116-acre chunk of land near the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a few miles north of The Strip.

According to the group driving the project they hope to break ground before the end of the year and have the whole thing up and running by 2009, however there is a lot of speculation that this may be yet another one of those situations where people make grand pronouncements without necessarily having the resources to back it up. Matt Rose, the CEO of the organization behind USR, is still trying to line up investors ($4 billion worth of them, mind you) and is also being sued by a former business partner who claims that Rose stole the idea.

On the other hand, many a multi-billion palace to excess has been built on less, so while I say “don’t hold your breath” I also say “you never know.”

If it does happen, don’t expect it to help the city’s effort to lure a professional sports team to town. No pro (or college for that matter) sports team will ever play in an arena connected to a casino so the best they can hope for are special events or non-competition exhibitions.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com
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Moon Handbooks Excerpt: The MGM Grand Fire By Rick Garman

When I was talking to the good folks at Avalon Publishing about doing a new Las Vegas travel guidebook, I wanted to make sure that it would be different in some measurable way from the other ninety bazillion Las Vegas guidebooks already on the market. Sure, it has to have reviews of hotels and shows and restaurants, but one of the things that most impressed me about the format of the Moon Handbooks Las Vegas book was all of the pages devoted to the things that aren’t just about where to sleep and where to eat – the things that help define what Las Vegas is including its rich and sometimes troubled history. There is an extensive history section in the book from the early pioneer days through the current corporate era and this week, I’m giving you a sneak peek at those pages with an exclusive excerpt about the MGM Grand Fire: November 21st, 1980. Ronald Reagan had just been elected president, the hostages were still in Iran, and JR had been shot.

But in Las Vegas the “real world” seemed a million miles away. Then, as now, Vegas was a place where the harsh realities of every day life were held at bay by bright neon lights, slot machines, and showgirls.

All of that changed that November morning at around 7 a.m. when what should have been an inconsequential electrical fire at the MGM Grand turned into an inferno that killed and injured hundreds and caused millions of dollars worth of damage. And it all started in a pie case.

Buried in a wall in a small deli off the main casino, copper pipes supplying coolant to the case rubbed against an aluminum conduit containing wires supplying electricity for more than six years. Eventually the weaker aluminum wore through, exposing the wires - a spark was inevitable.

It’s unknown exactly when the spark happened. The leading theory is that it may have occurred when the pie case compressor turned back on after a 15-minute defrosting cycle that happened every night after the deli was closed, around midnight. The sudden start-up vibration could have been just enough to bump the copper pipes into the exposed wire.

Regardless, there was a spark and in the dark recesses of the wall, a fire began to burn. It smoldered for hours, sending heat up through the wall into the crawl space that ran from above the deli, above the casino, all the way to the front door of the hotel more than 400 feet away. As the ambient heat rose, the ignition point of the materials that made up the ceiling fell.

Then at shortly after 7 a.m., a maintenance worker opened the door of the deli. Air rushed into the room, feeding the smoldering beginnings. The wall, already tinder dry and superheated, burst into flame sending more heat and thick smoke up into the crawl space. Within minutes the entire room was ablaze.

With no firewalls to impede it in the crawl space, the fire rushed through the ceiling out into the casino. There was a moment, when the thick black smoke hung above the restaurant landing as the fire gained strength and the heat intensified. And then it pounced.

The casino ceiling burned first, but flames stretched to the floor. An enormous wall of fire rushed through the room, gobbling up carpeting and furnishings, plastics and fabrics, and anything and anyone in its path at an astounding rate - twenty feet per second. That’s approximately 14 miles per hour or about 5 times faster than most human beings can run.

The heat was incredible - 3200 degrees. Enough to melt metal. Enough to dissolve skin. In fact, it is estimated that as many as 14 people may have been killed in the first 90 seconds of the fire.

By the time the flames reached the front door of the casino, glass and metal were no match and no impediment. A fireball blew out the front of the door and swept through the Porte Cochere. A lone car, waiting to be parked, was incinerated in an instant. The heat of the fire reduced other cars in the adjacent parking lot to scorched wrecks, sitting on melted pools of rubber.

At this point, less than ten minutes had passed since the worker first noticed the flames. In that short amount of time the fire had destroyed the bulk of casino and killed more than a dozen people.

But that was only the beginning.

The fire and smoke quickly spread into the hotel guest tower which was at 99% capacity - nearly 5,000 people were estimated to be in the building at the time, most sleeping soundly in their rooms. The smoke or maybe the screaming woke them.

Guests rushed for the fire exits, but design elements that were intended to keep the structure safe in the event of an earthquake, turned the stairwells into chimneys as thick, poisonous smoke roiled up from the casino level and burst out the top of the hotel towers. Those on the lower floors managed to make it down or were rescued by fire engine ladders that could only reach so high. People on the upper floors went to the roof where an unprecedented chain of helicopters, both official rescue choppers and private aircraft flown by volunteers, lined up to take people to safety.

It was the middle floors that proved most deadly. The bulk of the victims were found on the 20th and 23rd floors, far out of reach of the flames but overcome by the unstoppable smoke.

When it was all over a few hours later, 87 people were dead and almost 700 were injured. The disaster ranks as the second worst hotel fire in US history.

The large loss of life, and the resultant media coverage the fire received, spurred government officials into action. The sprinkler systems that are found in most hotels and high-rises are a direct result of the MGM Grand fire.

The MGM reopened in July of 1981 with a state-of-the-art fire safety system and a dapper Cary Grant greeting guests. By touting their new system, the MGM Grand was able to return quickly to its glory days which remained until it was sold in 1985 and renamed Bally’s.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/column/06_01_30.htm
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Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower Transforms Top of the World Lounge into Romance at Top of the World

The Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower recently completed the transformation of the Top of the World Lounge into a stylish new lounge experience called Romance at Top of the World. The new lounge features elegant décor, bottle service, upscale drinks and unsurpassed views of Las Vegas.

The Top of the World Lounge was completely remodeled with all areas, including the bar, designed to maximize the breathtaking views. The primary color throughout the room is a deep burgundy that is accentuated with subdued lighting and candles. The bar now features a glass top illuminated with fiber optics. There are 12 VIP sections that face either the Las Vegas Strip or surrounding areas. Each section contains luxury couches enclosed for privacy or bottle service that can be reserved for any occasion.

In addition to bottle service, Romance features a variety of exceptional Champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world. Upscale beverages include almost 30 martinis with The Top of The World Martini (Hennessy Paradis, Grand Mariner, and Ultimat CV Vodka, shaken, not stirred) for $100 as the signature drink. Other selected beverages include ports, scotches, bourbons, fine wines and dessert wines.

The dress code is casual chic and strictly enforced- no athletic wear, oversized or torn jeans, shorts, t-shirts or hats. Fashionable sneakers are allowed.

Romance at Top of the World is located on Level 107 of the Stratosphere Tower, one floor above the Top of the World Restaurant. There is no cover charge. Check -in is at the Top of the World podium located at the base of the Tower. Valet parking is available in the VIP Valet just off Las Vegas Boulevard. The Stratosphere is located at 2000 Las Vegas Boulevard South.

Romance is open daily from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. For more information or table pre-booking, please call 702-380-7764 or 800-99-TOWER.
http://www.casinotravelnews.com/Las_Vegas/las_vegas.html
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Las Vegas Calendar
Casino Travel News makes every effort to provide the most current and accurate information; however, show times, dates, and prices change frequently. Casino Travel News strongly recommends contacting the resorts to confirm show schedules and prices. Scheduled entertainment, times, and prices are subject to change without notice.

http://www.casinotravelnews.com/Las_Vegas/Las_Vegas_Entertainment_/Las_Vegas_Calendar/las_vegas_calendar.html————–
Vegas Values Report for 1/29/06

The below information is supplied by Scot Krause, our roving reporter, who supplies us each week with information on the best Las Vegas promotions. It’s only available here on the americancasinoguide.com web site so be sure to come back each Monday morning to find out about the best values in Las Vegas.

Here’s what we found this week:
http://www.americancasinoguide.com/Promotions/VEGAS-VALUES.shtml
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Las Vegas Top Ten Values February 2006
From the Las Vegas Advisor

1. South Coast - South Strip - 24 hours - Free
In accordance with tradition, South Coast assumes the number-one spot in the Top Ten this month. We’ve heard many comments that the resort looks like every other Coast property, and we agree. But if it ain’t broke … It’s a bit of a haul to get down there—2½ miles south of the Blue Diamond exit on I-15 (about nine miles from Tropicana Avenue)—but it’s worth the trip to see the latest kid on the expanding block.

2. Complete Steak Dinner - Ellis Island - 24 hours - $4.95
The $4.95 steak dinner at Ellis Island (#2) continues to deliver, month after month, year after year. With frequent price increases now a Las Vegas reality, this 10-ounce filet-cut sirloin, served with salad, potato, green beans, and bread, becomes a better bargain by the day.

3. Shrimp Cocktail - Golden Gate - 11 am-3 am - 99¢
Dozens of crisp freshwater Bay crustaceans fill a tulip glass to the brim to make up the 99¢ shrimp cocktail, available all day and most of the night in the Deli at the Golden Gate (#3). It’s topped with tangy cocktail sauce and comes with crackers and a lemon.

4. Ham & Eggs - Arizona Charlie’s Decatur - 24 hours - $2.49
One way we gauge value is to sample facsimiles of Las Vegas Top Ten deals when we travel. A ham & egg breakfast we tried recently in Reno was good, but only about half the size and nearly twice the price of the $2.49 ham & eggs special at Arizona Charlie’s Decatur (#4). This one’s tough to beat and it’s available around the clock.

5. Mac King - Harrah’s - Tues.-Sat. - $7.99/$21.95
On a visit to the Mac King Comedy and Magic Show at Harrah’s (#5), we found the Macster to be as entertaining as ever, filling up 75 minutes with magic and comedy for less than a $20 bill for two ($18.76 to be exact). Best of all, even arriving only a few minutes before showtime, we were still able to secure the one-drink-minimum coupon at the “coupon house” in the Carnaval Court.

6. Buffet - Mirage - Daily - $12.50-$22.50
Of a mind to find a better-value buffet than Cravings at the Mirage (#6), we tried a bunch of them last month. But upon comparison, plus monitoring continuing feedback that indicates diners want the best deal available on the top-end spreads, we’re sticking with Cravings. The Mirage continues to hold the line in the face of inflating buffet prices, which keeps it tops on our smorgy list.

7. Prime Rib Dinner - California - 5-10 pm daily - $6.99
The prime rib special at the California (#7) is a little like the Arizona Charlie’s ham & eggs: There really isn’t another prime rib that challenges it. It comes with a big slice of prime, potatoes, vegetable, an all-you-can-eat salad bar, and a nice little cherries Jubilee for dessert. All for just $6.99.

8. Funbook - Stratosphere - Daily - Free
The gambling coupons in the Stratosphere funbook (#8) have an expected return of a little less than $20. That doesn’t mean you’ll win $20 every time you play them, but the more you do, the closer you’ll come to that average result—and you can get a new one once per week.

9. Casbar Lounge - Sahara - Daily - Free
The Sahara’s 120-seat Rat Pack-era Casbar Lounge puts on free entertainment with a rotating schedule of performers seven nights a week. February’s line-up includes regulars Lena Prima, David Van Such, the Checkmates, Denise Clemente, Dixie Dooley, and the Divas of Comedy (every Mon. night at 9 pm), plus the Perfect 10 mini-revue. There’s no admission, no cover, and no drink minimum—though the bar is right outside the door if you want one.

10. Souvenir Photo - Imperial Palace - noon-8 pm - Free
The free souvenir photo at Imperial Palace (#10) was temporarily suspended in late December and early January, but it’s back and as good as ever. Simply show up at the little booth in front of the casino, get your snapshot taken with a big slot machine facade behind you and an Elvis (usually) next to you, and the digital printout is ready when you pick it up at the slot club counter at the back of the casino.
http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/topten.cfm
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CURRENT AND POSSIBLE BROADWAY SHOWS COMING TO LAS VEGAS.

http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jan-29-Sun-2006/news/5505692.html
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About 20 arrested in brawl
Incident occurred at Hawaiian Marketplace on Strip.

About 20 people were arrested Saturday night after a brawl at the Hawaiian Marketplace on the Strip, Las Vegas police said.

Officers responded to the melee at 3743 Las Vegas Blvd. South near Harmon Avenue about 10:15 p.m. and tried to stop the fights. Instead, they found themselves under attack, said police Capt. David O’Leary.

Then, about 80 officers responded to the scene and quickly restored order, police said.

More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jan-30-Mon-2006/news/5612266.html
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Details about weekend brawl on Strip emerge Incident started with fight outside concert

Details emerged Monday about a brawl on the Strip in which a crowd threw chairs, bottles and punches at the first police officers who had tried to stop a melee Saturday night at the Hawaiian Marketplace.

A large fight had started outside a Samoan concert at the open-air mall at 3743 Las Vegas Blvd. South near Harmon Avenue about 10:15 p.m., Las Vegas police said.

A team of officers saw the brawl and ordered the combatants to stop fighting. Some participants responded by throwing objects at the officers and verbally challenging them, according to several police arrest reports detailing the incident.

More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jan-31-Tue-2006/news/5637964.html
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SHOOTING STARS: Burton set to unlock more mysteries about Houdini.

Lance Burton knows all about legendary master magician Harry Houdini. (He should: he once hosted a TV documentary titled “Houdini: Unlocking the Mystery.”)

Which explains why the Monte Carlo headliner is in the spotlight this week for PBS’ “History Detectives.”

The series, which begins its fourth season in July, investigates the histories of intriguing objects — including a 1926 Houdini poster, found during a Chicago reroofing project and purchased by an amateur magician. (Houdini’s personal history ended with his 1926 death — on Halloween.)

“We started researching who was doing Houdini tricks,” explains associate producer Stephanie Angelides. As a result, Burton became “our No. 1 call.”

One of the show’s resident history sleuths, Columbia University professor Gwen Wright, will interview Burton — and watch him demonstrate some Houdini tricks.

But Angelides doesn’t know which tricks Burton will choose.

“That’s kind of the fun,” she says. “He will catch Gwen with the element of surprise.”
reviewjournal.com — Living - SHOOTING STARS
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The big owl lands in Vegas
By Justin Jimenez

Hooters Casino Hotel
Info: (702) 992-7970 or (800) 851-1703

Delightfully Tacky Yet Unrefined — the founders of Hooters must have known they were eventually coming to Vegas when they introduced that slogan decades back. Don’t tacky and unrefined naturally go with each other? Even with the questionable grammar, the phrase lives in Vegas. That untamed tackiness is what gives our gaudy, glowing desert its unique persona. Hooters Casino Hotel belongs here. The institution never takes itself too seriously, and that’s what makes it a magnet for fun addicts of either sex. It is indeed the cure for the common casino.

Poor San Rémo and the gradual decline from its heyday in the last century (”Oh, that’s what that hotel behind Tropicana is!”), now tossed out by hot girls in skimpy orange shorts and flesh-covered pantyhose. The busty takeover was official on Feb. 3.

The only Hooters casino and hotel in the world stays with the theme of its 375-plus locations — it’s still tacky but not as unrefined — with lots of charm and great service. The testosterone-borne enterprise offers all the amenities of a Florida resort but with Vegas-caliber supersize. The 696 Hooterized rooms (interesting number choice for a franchise that insists its name has no sexual innuendo) have all the latest amenities and all the flair of undersized white tank tops.

Although the joint comes equipped with the standard Hooters oyster- and wing-driven eatery, the big owl is spreading its wings. Porch Dogs is a music venue that hooks directly to the original food den, ensuring that cheese fries can be enjoyed over the dueling guitars. Adding more Florida pizazz, none other than Miami Dolphins legend Dan Marino brings his Fine Food & Spirits restaurant to the table. Even with the ever-flowing eye candy, the food is still the focus, backing the Hooters restaurant motto: “You can sell the sizzle, but you have to deliver the steak.”

Maybe seeking a little refinement, the 13 Club moves in as retro martini bar, and The Bait Shoppe opens up poolside with a sushi bar complimented by gourmet treats.

Food, beer, sports, sexy women in limited clothing; that was good enough. Add to it a nice room to crash in and a 30,000-square-foot Hooters-themed casino floor; this figment of man’s imagination usually joins the conversation of “If you had a choice between Jennifer or Angelina, who would you … ?” It has now materialized just a block from the Strip.
http://www.lvshowbiz.com/feature1.html
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Tricks and treats rope in a sense of wonder
By Paul Szydelko

Mac King Comedy Magic
Show
Where: Harrah’s
When: 1 & 3 p.m. Tues. - Sat.
Cost: $21.95
Info: (702) 492-3960 or (866) 80-SHOWS

Sometimes the best presents come in plain brown bags (or brown plaid suits). With little pretense and just a few props from his beat-up suitcase, Mac King is a delightful magician and a clever comedian.

Opening his afternoon act with a piece of rope, the boyish King displays dazzling sleight-of-hand tricks and a quirky sense of humor. Although he opens his pants zipper on several occasions, this is a family-friendly presentation. His jokes whiz past the ears of children in the audience and strike only their intended adult targets.

While the jokes build on each other, the complexity of the magic grows during the tight, hour-long show. King keeps you guessing about many things, including goldfish and worms, Fig Newtons and hand shadows. And how can he convince you a bright yellow rain slicker is actually a “cloak of invisibility”? Perhaps it’s his forlorn expression and haunting voice.

When a hefty rock emerges from his shoe, when he moves cards from one audience member to another without touching them, when he disappears under a blanket only to reappear in the audience instantaneously, you know you’re in the presence of someone special. And King leaves audiences happily wanting more tricks from that beat-up suitcase.
http://www.lvshowbiz.com/feature4.html
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Great Las Vegas site!

Please check out my friend Ted Newkirk’s great Las Vegas site.
www.accessvegas.com

Ted was instrumantal in helping me start the newsletter way back when.

Steve
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Kriss Kringle Convention Comes to Casino
Naturally Santas Have Real Hair and Beards.

Six weeks after Christmas and most of us are still paying for gift purchases, replacing dead toy batteries and fixing already overused electronics.

So, what’s Santa doing? He’s coming to Las Vegas!

Now that his whirlwind jaunt around the globe is in the history books for another year, even St. Nick needs to decompress after the holidays – at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino Thursday, Feb. 9, through Saturday, Feb. 11.

For the fourth straight year, the hotel will host the annual convention of Naturally Santa. As the name suggests, the Kriss Kringles in this 11-year-old organization have their own real hair and beards. They will share heartwarming stories about their Christmas experiences and discuss strategies on how to handle children, take pictures that tell a story, accommodate Jewish youngsters and those disabled – even how to deal with adults who want to sit on Santa’s lap. And, of course, how NOT to promise gifts.

And while they’re here, they’ll stop in Tequila Joe’s, the Imperial Palace karaoke bar on the Strip sidewalk, for some NOT here-comes-Santa-Claus crooning between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9.

About 50 plan to attend with their spouses – plus Naturally Santa wannabes. The convention is the only time during the year that the organization interviews and takes on new members. Last year, of the 30 St. Nicks who traveled to Las Vegas at their own expense to be interviewed and videotaped, only nine made the cut.

Naturally Santas are among the best trained in the business, priding themselves on a membership that does not drink, smoke or womanize. During this past season, 72 Naturally Santas worked in 30 states. The Santas range in age from 45 to 81, with most of them between 60 and 70 years old. The members are in character any time they leave home. Some have even gone so far as to have drivers license photos taken as Santa Claus.

So, who would have guessed that the Jolly Ol’ Elf would choose to unwind in Las Vegas? But then again, what happens here, stays here …

For information about Naturally Santa, visit www.naturallysantainc.com.

The Imperial Palace is home to the award-winning tribute show “Legends In Concert” and the Dealertainers, celebrity impersonators who deal blackjack. The hotel also hosts The Auto Collections, the world’s largest classic car lot with $100 million worth of inventory for sale. Imperial Palace is the most central stop on the Las Vegas Monorail. In addition, the resort is famous for “Five Star Friendly Service” and includes a race and sports book, 2,640 rooms and suites, world-class gaming and amenities, a seasonal poolside luau, 40,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, 10 specialty restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, business center, concierge service, medical center, chapel and reception facilities.
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Dice - Controlled Throwing by Bill Burton

There has been much publicity recently about controlled shooting at the craps table. Many experts who once scoffed at the notion of a player having the edge at craps are now backing the validity of controlled throwing. (Sometimes called, dice control or rhythm rolling) Many players wonder if dice control really works.

Part of the reason for some of the skepticism is the words “dice control” which is misleading. As we all know that no one can control the outcome of the dice on every single roll. The concept behind controlled throwing is to start by setting the dice in a certain manner gripping them and throwing them the same way each time. This produces a “controlled throw”. The desired result is to alter the random outcome of the two dice when they land. You are trying to skew the sevens to roll ratio so the seven comes up less times than with a random throw.

More Here:
http://casinogambling.about.com/od/craps/a/diceset.htm
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From: “EYE ON VEGAS”

Bravo’s brand new reality competition show, “Top Chef,” is set to launch in March and includes two local industry names in Tiffani Faison and Steven Asprinio. The show, which features twelve up-and-coming chefs from around the country, combines elimination challenges with an inside look at the pressure-filled environment of a world class kitchen. Faison, who is a self-taught chef, is currently working as a line cook at Tao after having served as chef de partie under Daniel Boulud in Boston. Asprinio, who recently departed from his Sommelier position at Nobhill, previously had worked at Caesar’s Palace Italian eatery, Terrazza. Several chefs with Vegas connections will also be featured on the show including Tom Colicchio, who will serve as mentor to the competing chefs. Colicchio is the celebrity chef behind numerous acclaimed restaurants including the MGM’s craftsteak. Other chefs who will stop by to serve as judges include Hubert Keller of Fleur De Lys (Mandalay Bay). Good luck to both Faison and Asprinio!

SCORES Las Vegas is going over and above to make sure that this year’s Super Bowl is one of the sexiest yet. Although the Rolling Stones are set to rock the halftime show on the club’s 24 plasma, big screen monitors, it will be all that sexier with half time entertainment by the beautiful women of SCORES. Chef Dennis Natoli will be providing stadium fare for all gamers and happy hour drinks specials will go on throughout the game. There are numerous prizes and giveaways that will be given away during the big game including a Pick’em Contest where 10 out of 10 provides the winner with $1,000 cash AND a $1,000 bar tab! Doors open at 2P with a 3P kick-off scheduled for the game.

Our friends over at Pure Nightclub are using Super Bowl weekend to keep the party going strong. On Friday, February 3rd, all-world wide receiver Terrell Owens will be kicking off the festivities with DJ AM manning the wheels of steel. On Saturday evening, Pure Promoter John Lewis will be using his UFC connections to throw an after fight bash that will draw combatant’s even without the “official after party” moniker. That’s just the start for up-coming events with the Pure Management Group who will be bringing in one of their Vegas exclusive DJ’s for back-to-back nights of hip hop madness when NYC’s DJ Riz rocks Pure on Tuesday night (02/07) and Tangerine on Wednesday (02/08). Additionally, Pure has big plans for Valentine’s Day Tuesday with a performance by Desperate Housewives star Nicollette Sheridan with the Pussycat Dolls and the stunning Cindy Margolis hosting a bash in the main room with DJ AM.

Legal Beagle Bucky Buchanan is launching his new television program Las Vegas Law on Court TV on Tuesday (01/31). He will be celebrating with a party at The Courthouse Grill on Third Street. Cocktails and appetizers will be served from 8-10:30P.

The Las Vegas Hilton has signed Kenny G as a headlining performer three times throughout the year. Mr. G is scheduled for back-to-back performances in March, June and November. Ira Sternberg, Hilton’s PR maven put it best when he said, “Now, that’s sax appeal!”

Dueling Pianos are soon to become a regular fixture of the new South Coast Hotel and Casino. Beginning February 2, South Coast’s Del Mar Lounge will be transformed into a piano bar every Thursday through Saturday beginning at 9:30 p.m. With a repertoire of over 1,000 songs, the talented piano players will take requests, encourage sing-alongs and perhaps insight some well-intended room rivalry. Drink specials, including $1 draft beers and $1 shots will also be offered in the Del Mar Lounge during dueling pianos.
http://www.lasvegasfoodservice.com/newsletter.shtml
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I hope you enjoyed this issue of Everything Las Vegas. Please feel free to post a comment.

Steve

Posted on February 4th, 2006 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter