June 9th, 2006

Eileen and I will be back in Las Vegas starting July 13th for six nights. If you are interested in a members get together, just email me at mrvegas98@aol.com and I will keep you updated. Plans are for a meet and greet and we have a few offers from several shows that would like our group to attend.
—————–
Jackie Brett, the Director of Advertising and Public Relations at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino has just published a new book called FABULOUS LAS VEGAS.

Fabulous Las Vegas is a new coffee table book with incredible photographs by Larry Hanna and insider text by Jackie Brett. These two enthusiastic and knowledgeable long-time residents
have created Beautiful America Publishing Company’s latest profile about the world-famous city that never sleeps - Las Vegas.

Fabulous Las Vegas is being sold as a softbound book for $16.95 and hardbound for $24.95 in bookstores, hotels, gift and souvenir shops throughout the Las Vegas area. Future book signings are being planned.

Jackie will be personally signing copies of the book tomorrow June 10th from 2 to 4 p.m. at B. Dalton in theBoulevard Mall, 3680 S. Maryland Parkway and on Saturday, July 15, at The Reading Room at Mandalay Place from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Jackie has been a great supporter of the newsletter and a wonderful friend to me. If you get a chance, please stop by and say HI to her.

You can also order a copy of the book by contacting Heather Kirk at 800-874-1233
————-
MIKE WEATHERFORD : Ventriloquist Lucas making move to Desert Passage.

Magicians and dragons seem like natural roommates, but the “Caveman” would be the wild card at a new theater scheduled to open later this summer at Desert Passage mall.

Ronn Lucas is the first of three tenants to make public his move to a theater operated by magician Steve Wyrick. The comic ventriloquist closes an afternoon run of nearly five years at the Rio on Sunday. He hopes to reopen with a matinee slot in the new 430-seat theater by early August.

More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-08-Thu-2006/living/7698797.html
—————

Steve’s Las Vegas Quickies

The success of the Riviera Hotel and Casino’s Summer Outdoor Hawaiian Luaus will lead to an outdoor Country and Western impersonator show this Fall, complete with barbecue steaks and all the trimmings. “It’s official,” said Riviera’s Director of Casino Marketing Debbie Mumford. “Every Wednesday beginning in September and running through November 15, the 2nd deck location of the luau will transform into a good ol’ fashion Chuck Wagon party. A special barbecue grill will be installed just for these events. The final details are being ironed out.

The 16th Annual Las Vegas International Mariachi Festival, celebrating Fiestas Patrias (Mexico Independence), will be presented at the Las Vegas Hilton, Saturday, September 16. This three-and-a-half hour musical event will feature the best Mariachis and entertainers from México and the United States performing one of the world’s most unique and recognized forms of music, Mariachi.

Travel & Leisure magazine’s list of World’s Best Service, published in the June issue, ranks The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas No. 6 in the continental United States and Canada. It’s the only Las Vegas hotel on the list.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM

The Amazon Ballroom at Rio is about to become the headquarters for the World Series of Poker, which will run June 25 to Aug. 11. The biggest complaint we hear so far is a repeat of the long lines from last year. That’s not surprising when you hold the world’s biggest poker event in a room the size of a basketball arena. But host Harrah’s Entertainment reminds would-be players they can register online (worldseriesofpoker.com).
reviewjournal.com — Business - INSIDE GAMING

Look for substantial upgrades in the poker room at Caesars Palace. Even though its counterpart at The Venetian is off to a slow start, Caesars’ poker room is a boon to the vintage casino. It’s helping bring in the younger, hipper crowd that new owner Harrah’s Entertainment is chasing. It’s spurring spending at upper-end amenities such as Bobby Flay’s, the Mesa Grill and Bradley Ogden. And it’s getting a boost from those same restaurants and the entertainment at the Colosseum. Poker players don’t necessarily want the crystal and tapestries of The Venetian, but they’ll spend on top-rate amenities during breaks in their play.
reviewjournal.com — Business - INSIDE GAMING

Gunmen who held up the wife of a local musical director this weekend are in for a surprise. The bad guys got away with a purse containing 17 black gaming chips, which would normally be worth $1,700. Cashing them in, however, will be a problem. “They’re all promotion chips that I give out as business cards,” said Jeff Greenberg, musical director of “The Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey and Dean” show at the Greek Isles.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM

Opportunity Village has recruited Siegfried and Roy to appear at its June 24 Celebrity Poker Tournament. The no-limit Texas Hold ‘em tournament is set for 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Caesars Palace Poker Tournament Room. All proceeds will go toward construction of an Opportunity Village campus in southwest Las Vegas, the third such facility in the Las Vegas Valley. Also scheduled to take part in the tournament are Lance Burton, Clint Holmes, Frankie Scinta and David Brenner. “It’s such an honor to have Siegfried and Roy and many of our community’s premier entertainers together for an afternoon of fun with a purpose,” Opportunity Village Chief Development Officer Linda Smith said in a news release.
Las Vegas SUN: John Katsilometes

This Friday, June 9, will be the one year anniversary of the Pussycat Dolls Lounge inside Pure Nightclub. Pure Nightclub is located in Caesars Casino and the doors open at 10p.

The Klondike Hotel & Casino has been in steady decline for some time now. The novelty of a $.99 breakfast, dime roulette and $1 blackjack has been all but buried by a rude and crude staff led by a female casino manager with zero idea of customer service. No worries, the prime real estate will be put to better use when the property is closed for good on June 30.
http://www.eyeonvegas.net/

Boa Steakhouse at the Forum Shops is taking their Caesar Salad back to basics by introducing tableside preparation for the classic menu item. From what we hear the salads are receiving rave reviews from diners which, last weekend, included LVFBM friend and former Apprentice-star Omarosa Stallworth.
http://www.eyeonvegas.net

The Freemont Street Experience has announced they will host a patriotic fundraiser entitled ‘Las Vegas Sings for America” over the July 4th weekend. The show will be broadcast live to more than 10 million households.
http://www.eyeonvegas.net

Jerry Lewis announced some ambitious plans on Tuesday: He’s bringing the Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon back to Las Vegas after a 10-year absence and is taking “The Nutty Professor” to Broadway in 2008.

The annual Labor Day telethon, hosted by Lewis since 1966, will move from Los Angeles to the South Coast hotel and casino.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM

Some familiar faces in tuxedos are missing from the Flamingo Las Vegas scene. A fixture for decades, the penguin troupe has been moved to the Dallas Zoo, where they will get the high-roller treatment as part of a penguin habitat. The Flamingo’s flock of flamingos remain a part of the landscape. Flamingo execs aren’t ready to reveal plans for the penguin area.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM

Speaking of hot spots, one that was a favorite for visitors and locals alike has closed its doors. After hosting 60,000 warblers, crooners, divas and croakers since the first tune was sung September 2003, the Imperial Palace Karaoke Club at Tequila Joe’s is making way for the Beacher’s Rockhouse Bar scheduled to open July 15. At least Harrah’s isn’t filling the space with slot machines. Beacher’s should quickly find a large following, especially with the younger crowd.
reviewjournal.com — Lenny’s Las Vegas

If you’re in the mood for some great entertainment — free — then all you have to do is drop into the Tropicana’s Celebration Lounge to hear one of Las Vegas’ hottest bands, The Killjoys. Seven really talented musicians get together and along with their singing, play everything from harmonicas and percussions to drums and guitars. Their music covers today’s top hits, your favorite songs from the Œ80s, and some classic rock. The band performs every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., Wednesday from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., and from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. No performances Sunday and Monday nights. Don’t say I don’t tip you off to some good stuff.
reviewjournal.com — Lenny’s Las Vegas

The organizers of Vegoose, the massive music festival that debuted at Sam Boyd Stadium last year, announced on Wednesday that they’re returning this year and expanding the festival from four days to five. It is scheduled for Oct. 27-31. Last year’s headliners included Beck, Dave Matthews, Widespread Panic, Flaming Lips, Phil Lesh of the Grateful Dead.reviewjournal.com — News - NORM

The Riviera Hotel & Casino is pleased to announce the release the following chip.
Steven R. Schirripa 2006

Release date: Wed., June 7, 2006 at 9:30 am at the Riviera’s Casino Cage
Face Value: $5.00
Limited Edition of 750

This Celebrity chip features Steven R. Schirripa and his newest book, “The Goomba Diet - Living Large and Loving It.” This is the third chip commemorating the GOOMBA book series. Among his many movie and TV credits, Steve is best known for his portrayal of ‘Bobby Bacala’ on the Sopranos.

For a sneak preview of the chips, go to www.rivierahotel.com, click on the “Gaming” menu and then on “Chips & Tokens”.

Spotted at Tequila Joe’s on its closing night were Wayne Newton, O’Shea’s comedian Vinnie Favorito, Blue Man Group member Marcus Weiss and Lydia Cornell from “Too Close For Comfort.”

The “World Series of Blackjack taped at the Las Vegas Hilton, kicked off its schedule last Monday in primetime (10 p.m. Eastern / 7 p.m. Pacific) on GSN (formerly the Game Show Network). The show will feature a new episode each Monday (then repeat two additional times during the week) for 13 weeks through August 28. The repeats are Tuesday nights at 1 a.m. Eastern / 10 p.m. Pacific, and Friday nights at 9 p.m. Eastern / 6 p.m. Pacific. At the end of its 13-week run, the series probably will be re-aired from the beginning. Hilton players featured in the series are Anthony Lu - Week 2 - June 12;

Star Trek: The Experience at the Las Vegas Hilton has launched the Admiral’s Package, “The Ultimate Experience”. For $149.99, a guest gets to ride both attractions, take the backstage tour, have his/her photo taken in the Captain’s Chair and the Borg Chamber, dine at Quark’s Restaurant, receive an exclusive Star Trek 40th anniversary pilsner glass, and available only to package purchasers, a free retail prize package and an original series ST Communicator.

The World Cup Soccer (Futbol) is at the top. It’s Mexico vs. Iran this Sunday, June 11 at 9 a.m. and the Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook will have the game on the big screens (all the action is in the Superbook, not some ballroom down the hall). Other events during Futbol include a live meet and greet with the Las Vegas Hilton “Princesas del Futbol” and Budweiser “Dream Team” National Bud Light models. Budweiser bucket beer specials also will be featured. If a wager is placed on any world cup event, players receive a coupon for a $5 discount on the breakfast buffet. There will be a special drawing of airline tickets on Mexicana, stays at the Hilton in Los Cabos, dining certificates at the Las Vegas Hilton and, on June 21, the grand prize of a Toyota Tacoma truck.

“SUNSET STRIP” is a rockin’ band that fills the room with great sounds and funky beats. This talented group, led by Musical Director Steven Lee, features seasoned musicians singers and dancers Lee has performed with music greats Al Stewart, Tower of Power, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, the Rippingtons, and B.B. King. Sunset Strips rocks Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. in the Shimmer Cabaret.

Tao Nightclub and Asian Bistro received the awards for “Best Nightclub” and “Best Fusion Restaurant” in Las Vegas from the Southern Nevada Hotel Concierge Association.

Opportunity Village, in association with Greenspun Media Group, M.J. Christensen Diamond Centers, and our friends at TheLinkLV.com, will host a celebrity No-Limit Texas Hold ‘em poker tournament at Caesars Palace on Saturday, June 24th. The VIP reception and “Losers’ Lounge” will be held at Pure, complete with poker lessons and live entertainment. At stake is a seat at the World Series of Poker and $32,000 in cash and prizes. The recommended donation for a seat in this charity tourney is $500 per person, or give just $50 and attend the VIP party at Pure! Sign up or RSVP.
You can sign up here: http://www.opportunityvillage.org/content/?c=56Registration ends June 20th.
http://www.thecircuitlv.com/06_06_06.htm

Award-winning “mentalist”, Gerry McCambridge, began performing at his new home on the Las Vegas Strip, the Stardust Resort & Casino, on June 2. In July 2005, McCambridge arrived in Las Vegas from New York and signed a three-week contract with a local casino where McCambridge performed nightly for the past 47 weeks!. The Mentalist now performs at the Stardust’s Hypnotic Lounge on Monday and Tuesday at 8 p.m., and Wednesday through Sunday at 5 p.m. Tickets are $27.95 and available by calling 702-732-6325 or 866-888-3427. http://www.thecircuitlv.com/06_06_06.htm

Jeff Beacher’s newest brainchild Beacher’s Rockhouse will open on Thursday, June 15th across from Caesars Palace and in front of Imperial Palace. The Grand Opening will be July 4th Weekend starting on Saturday July 1st with a performance by house band Tiny Kiss. Beacher’s Rockhouse will be synonymous with Spring Break: foam parties, wet t-shirt contests, stripper pole contests, mechanical bull riding and the infamous “Wheel of Misfortune”. Says Chad Weiner, Director of Madhouse Marketing, “Beacher’s Rockhouse is going to be just as crazy as Beacher’s Madhouse! We will be taking elements from our show and placing them in a small dive bar. So, a Drag Queen might be checking your ID and a Little Person might be your waitress—you never know at The Rockhouse!”
http://www.thecircuitlv.com/06_06_06.htm

Rock ‘n Roll Wine Presents: WineOasis II
Friday, June 23rd, The Flamingo Pool , 7:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

The bad boys of Rock ‘n Roll Wine will be kicking off the hot days of summer with their biggest and baddest wine party yet! At the second annual Rock ‘n Roll WineOasis they’ll be featuring up to 15 of your favorite wineries, each tucked into their own cabanas surrounding the candle-lit pool. Jam to the live Reggae beats of one of the best and most authentic Reggae bands around–BonaFide. There will be body painting, candles floating in the pool, and beautiful people. RnR will also be launching the first wine from their Amplified Wines Company, Reggae Rhapsody–a delicious blend of Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. You definitely want to be among the first to taste this zesty summertime wine! The cost is $30 if you prepay at http://www.rocknrollwine.com and $35 at the door if you don’t, cash/check only. Tasting starts at 7 p.m. RSVP to Chris at 702-561-3498 or by emailing chris@rocknrollwine.com.
Source:www.thecircut.com

Commander’s Palace at Desert Passage, 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South, was named a 2006 Ivy Award winner by Restaurants & Institutions magazine for excellence in food, service and overall hospitality.
reviewjournal.com — Neon - RESTAURANT NEWS

Suit settled: The lawsuit brought by David Cassidy against Sandy Hackett has been settled out of court. Cassidy, producer of “The Rat Pack Is Back” touring tribute show, had filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Hackett and his production, “A Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey, and Dean,” playing at the Greek Isles.

Part of the agreement is that Hackett’s production will be called “The Rat Pack Is Back! In Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey, and Dean” (Maybe they can borrow the gigantic Mirage marquee to display this unwieldy title). Also, Cassidy will return to Las Vegas on June 24-25 to reprise his role as Bobby Darin. Cassidy played that role in the original show, which he produced with Don Reo, at the Desert Inn and Sahara. Cassidy has not performed in Las Vegas since “At the Copa” at the Rio, which closed in January 2001.
Las Vegas SUN: John Katsilometes

The MGM Grand Garden Arena, the reigning heavyweight champion of major concerts, is the likely venue for Barbra Streisand’s fall tour stop. The tour is to run from October through November and will span 20 shows, but no dates or sites have been announced. Streisand, 64, most recently performed during Andre Agassi’s “Grand Slam for Children” fundraiser at the MGM Grand in October, but hasn’t toured in 12 years.
Las Vegas SUN: John Katsilometes

The Monte Carlo Resort & Casino on the Strip will celebrate its 10th anniversary June 21. Throughout June, the resort has many special offers including discounts, a commemorative $5 dollar chip, and anniversary coins.

Harrah’s Entertainment today announced “the largest television deal in poker history” with the extension of ESPN’s exclusive coverage of the World Series of Poker through 2010. The company also announced the “largest sponsorship deal ever” between a gaming entity and a corporate sponsor, with Milwaukee’s Best Light now set to become the Official Beer of the WSOP through 2008.
http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/whatsnews.cfm
—————-
NORM: Wynn taking reins of faltering show.

The status of “Le Reve” creator-producer Franco Dragone is in question.

Sources say Dragone is “stepping back,” with Steve Wynn taking control of the creative content of the aquatic production at Wynn Las Vegas.

A Wynn front office executive, reached Saturday, said it would be inaccurate to say Dragone is “out,” but declined further comment.

Wynn “wants lasers, pyrotechnics … special effects as the emphasis of the show,” according to an insider. All changes will take effect by Jan. 31, said one source.

Telling, perhaps, was the absence of Wynn and Dragone at the opening night of “Love,” the Cirque du Soleil-Beatles collaboration at The Mirage.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM: Wynn taking reins of faltering show
—————-
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Seats aplenty with opening of two shows.

What are you doing July 15?

Why? No special reason. It’s not like I know where I’ll be that night either.

But that Saturday comes well after the grand opening galas for Cirque du Soleil’s “Love” and “Phantom — The Vegas Spectacular.” I figured it would be a good, random night to check ticket availability on the Strip.

You see, the new Beatles-themed Cirque adds another 2,013 seats to the market for every show. With 10 performances a week, that’s 20,130 new tickets selling at an average of $110.75.

“Phantom” also plans 10 weekly shows. With 1,815 seats, that’s another 18,150 tickets each week at an average price of $112.50.

More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-04-Sun-2006/living/7716315.html
—————
NORM: ‘Hairspray’ won’t stick in Las Vegas

The producers of “Hairspray” announced Monday that the transplanted Broadway show, which opened at Luxor in February, is being canceled as of Sunday.

Cast members were told 30 minutes before the show.

“As a production we couldn’t be happier, but we just never found the audience. It’s very sad,” said Myron Martin, the co-producer with Michael Gill.

Sunday’s finale would be the 148th performance.

Tony Award-winning star Harvey Fierstein and his sidekick Dick Latessa were recruited for 12 weeks to get the musical off the ground.

But the Broadway success — eight Tonys since opening in 2002 — didn’t follow in Las Vegas.

“Everyone loves it. We were incredibly proud of the show,” said Martin, reached by telephone during the show.

Martin added that breaking the news to the cast was “a terribly tough time.”
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM: ‘Hairspray’ won’t stick in Las Vegas
————–
New north Strip hotel planned.
Maxim magazine, developer slate $1.2 billion project.

The north end of the Strip has picked up another potential tenant.

Maxim magazine and Southern California-based real estate developer Concord Wilshire Partners announced plans Monday for an estimated $1.2 billion hotel-casino themed on the best-selling men’s lifestyle magazine.

The magazine’s publishing company said it hoped to open a 2,300-room hotel with a 60,000-square-foot casino just north of Circus Circus and Riviera in 2010.

“It’s not a themed place along the lines of New York-New York or The Venetian, but it’s what we would describe as a fun, stylish and modern resort with a four-star hotel that is accessible with great service and great amenities,” said Barry Pincus, director of brand development for Dennis Publishing.

More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-06-Tue-2006/business/7793971.html
—————-
Stratosphere’s Romance Lounge tops out service
By Justin Jimenez

Romance Lounge
Where: The Stratosphere
When: 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Sun.-Thurs. 4 p.m.-4 a.m., Fri. and Sat.
Info: (702) 380-7777

It’s a nice evening out on the club circuit. You meet your date and nestle in at the end of the bar after gleefully waiting 45 minutes to get in. She looks beautiful, elegant. You order a pair of martinis then lean in to comment about her hair. “I REALLY LIKE YOUR HAIR!” The bass of the neighboring speaker starts to move the drinks on the bar. “WHAT? THE MUSIC IS TOO LOUD!” she screams. “I REALLY LIKE YOUR HAIR!!!” on a second attempt. She thinks she has understood. “YOU WANT TO SEE ME BARE?!” The bass now helps the gin trickle off your face.

When did a night out become a screaming conversation and a wrestling match to get in the door?

Don’t let this happen to you.

Romance Lounge, located at the apex of the Stratosphere, delivers all the posh accoutrements that have become a staple in Sin City’s nocturnal pastimes, without all the lingering fuss. It is a genuine Vegas experience at an audibly reasonable level.

With unparalleled sightlines of the sparkling desert oasis, the tallest building this side of the Mississippi has now added bottle service to solidify the serene mood.

The recently remodeled space sits atop the north end of the Strip and sprawls atop the nightlife market. It is ironically located one floor above the restaurant touting top of the world status.

Accentuated with subdued lighting and candles, all the makings of a romantic rendezvous fall in place; the sunset is foreplay to the evening that follows. Imbuing further atmospheric ambience, live jazz picks up around twilight.

Burgundies and reds engulf the space, but with a 360-degree panoramic view of Las Vegas, the interior is being heavily upstaged.

A dozen VIP tables line the fiber optic-enhanced bar, which has flat screens for distractions if the 900-foot vantage point starts to inspire a case of vertigo. Offering relaxation on high-back sofas, the VIP tables feature a wide range of drink options. Some tables have optional privacy screens as well for those more discreet encounters.

For the libatious high, a stock menu of more than 30 specialty martinis is always open. The list culminates with the Top of the World Martini, made with Hennessy Paradis, Grand Marnier and Ultimat CV Vodka at a price tag of $100. Cheese flights and sweet confections underline this sophisticated endeavor.

Ergo, the only discomfort of the whole experience is the slight popping of your ears as you descend from the 107th floor.
http://www.lvshowbiz.com/2006/06/04/feature2.html
————–
John Katsilometes sits in with Chef Gordon Ramsay, known for grilling culinary contestants, as he preps for the second season of ‘Hell’s Kitchen’

Helluva kitchen job awaits champ.

On 6/06/06 we lead with the demonically addictive cooking show “Hell’s Kitchen.”

It’s almost as if it was planned.

The culinary competition program starring frequently agitated English Chef Gordon Ramsay debuts its second season with a two-hour episode at 8 p.m. Monday on Fox. The show brings together 12 would-be restaurateurs in a competition officiated by Ramsay, a self-described perfectionist who has been known to, shall we say, verbally tenderize his contestants.

The winner of “Hell’s Kitchen 2,” taped in February in a Los Angeles TV station converted to a restaurant (with some segments taped at Red Rock Resort), will work as an executive chef at T Bones at Red Rock Resort. The victor will also be eligible to receive a financial interest in the restaurant (the cherry on the sundae, as it were).

During a conference call from London on Monday afternoon, Ramsay heaped praise on Las Vegas as a culinary mecca.

“Las Vegas is the Monte Carlo of America ¦ I have never been in a city like it that houses so many top international chefs,” Ramsay said. “It’s not a playground with a few casinos. It’s a culinary capital of talent from around the world.”

Ramsay said he would one day like to join that talent.

“It would be an extraordinary opportunity. I would love to get to Vegas,” he said, but “the objective right now is for the winner (of ‘Hell’s Kitchen’) and the restaurant to flourish.”

Ramsay explained his often prickly temperament on the show.

“Six months after the program has finished, the winner and the restaurant have to be successful. If it goes to the wrong person, I have not done my job,” he said. “If I had (only) $1,000 to give away, there would be no call for that firm toughness. But I treat it as if it’s my own kitchen, with my own standards ¦ I’ve spent some time in the kitchen with Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud, and when the (stuff) hits the fan - when a table spending $7,000 on a meal sends the duck back because it hasn’t been cooked properly - they’re not talking (to the staff) like a parade is going on.

“We’re not running a hairdressing salon. We’re running a kitchen.”
Article from The Las Vegas Sun
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/do/2006/jun/06/566653188.html
——————
Blue Men the Show is Good, Very Good!
By Phil Arnold

I’ve been avoiding the Blue Man Group for a long time. Who thought of this show? You put three guys in blue makeup, you have them pound drums full of paint, and you have a show? Well as is often the case, I was wrong. This show is a very good show.

The main aspect of this show is humor. It is really funny. I should have known you couldn’t just have three guys in blue makeup, in blue clothes just pounding on drums and have a really popular show in Las Vegas. I would have never guessed how funny and creative this show is. Now I knew I was going to write something about being creative because what is more creative than three blue guys on stage being funny, and pounding on various percussive type instruments?

The show starts off with the blue men catching something like ping-pong balls in their mouths. So it becomes a contest between a couple of the blues as they see who can catch the most. Well, it is creative, and it is funny, and it is amazing how many of this ping-pong looking balls Blue Man #3 can catch. When he spits out the balls, they have changed shape and the amount of material he puts onto a table is huge, kind of looking like a triangle-shaped cake, much to the chagrin of his competitor Blue Man #2.

If you are attending this show, don’t be late. Saturday, May 6th, at the early show a couple was showed to their seats late, and they stopped the show to display the couple being led into the theater on the many video screens in the theater, with music and words…”You’re late!” They actually stopped an interesting part of the show when they were about to slingshot a paint balloon at a Blue Man in front of a bull’s eye target. I was really curious how accurate the gigantic rubber band would shoot the balloon, and here comes this late couple and I didn’t find out if they could the target with the paint balloon.

My favorite part of the show was when they brought an audience member onto the stage, and the three Blue Men and the volunteer each ate a “Lite Twinkie.” They put a special effect bib on her, and they did not say a word, but communicated well without words, in a very funny bit. And of course the special effects bib has to do its special effects thing, which is funny to the surprise of the audience volunteer. But I think this section of the show shows how versatile the Blue Men can really be. They can be a little funny, maybe not so outrageous and still be funny. But make no mistake about it; the Blue Man Group will get pretty outrageous in the slapstick department.

And if you think you are safe in the balcony, well, Blue Man #3 will climb a ladder to reach the balcony and have fun in that section of the theater. And I got a lot of face time on the television screens because he stopped at the aisle seat above me to get a container of candy. And a guy in the fifth row started tossing him candy, which he caught in his mouth. Blue Man #3 has a really big mouth, as if I needed to be convinced of this after his first act on stage, but I got a close up and his mouth is really, really big! And he never says a word!

This show is hilarious much of the time. It does have a lot of noise, but one of the strengths of this show is a seven piece live band. And something I didn’t realize is the lighting special effects is just outstanding. These are the type visual effects could easily be seen at a Pink Floyd concert. So with this show you get a lot of interesting percussion, wonderful visual sensations, and a lot of innovative humor. I’m not sure you can ask much more from a show. Yes, I would probably prefer a more standard kind of show, but the experience of this show was well worth the money I spent, and I give it a 9.5 rating out of a possible 10. And yes, I consider this show a top five show in Las Vegas. See it if you get the chance.
—————
Headlights and Tailpipes
by Phil Arnold

When I first heard about this show, I was thinking this is some serious double entendre. So if I read my double meanings with a sexual implication, this show should be about beautiful girls and fancy cars. In fact, it should be by its implication a topless show with a minimal amount of clothes.

I am not a huge antique car fan. So I was thinking this is going to be just another topless show. Well, it’s not just another topless show. It is certainly not your run of the mill topless show. There are in fact cars I liked in this show. There was a pre-1960 Ford Thunderbird featured during a Beach Boys tune, Fun, Fun, Fun Till Her Daddy Takes Her T-bird Away or whatever that tune is entitled. There is a song about a Pink Cadillac and several other Rock N Roll standards about cars and women. My favorite car was probably a mid-60s Pontiac GTO. There were also Corvettes and Chevy Bel Aires.

Without doubt the strength of this show is the beautiful dancers. There are ten or eleven of the most beautiful ladies you are likely to see in Las Vegas. Melania De Los Santos is one of the dancers, who came over from X-An Erotic Adventure. Meeka and Ruthe also came over from that show. That is a very strong core group of dancers to start off with. I still consider Melania to be the hottest showgirl in Las Vegas. I first saw her dance over four years ago when she was with the Showgirls of Magic. She ended up modeling for the show Showgirls’ artwork. She went to Crazy Girls, and back to Showgirls of Magic, before she went over to X. As I watched her dance from front row Center Stage on the outside of the Stardust’s showroom’s circular runway, I knew she was very beautiful and it probably took me 15 minutes to figure out it was Melania. It took me probably less time to recognize Meeka, who has a fairly distinctive exotic look. If Melania and Meeka are the lead dancers in this show, you know the quality of the overall chorus line is going to be very good.

I was sailing along enjoying the Headlights and Tailpipes, and the vintage music about cars, when a sudden change in the show nearly lost me. From out of nowhere, a former hyperspace Playboy playmate, let’s call her the Mistress, came out and sang kind of a Techno-pop song she had written. Well, I can take some Techno-pop, but I have never heard it with a vocalist. That was pretty unsettling to my musical sensibilities. And then she sang another one of her penned songs that sounded pretty similar. While I didn’t mind her taking shots at Hugh Hefner in song, it would have been nice if it sounded better. Then the next song was a long Rap song. I was ready to leave. My quota for a show is one Rap song, but this followed two bad sounding songs.

What saved the show for me was a comic coming out after I was ready to leave by the name of Lonesome Dave. His wife had come out earlier, and she was somewhat funny, but not easy to understand since she was from the Dominican Republic. I thought I was going to have to put up with Lonesome Dave and his guitar doing country music, but he was really funny. So my mood was changed, and I was ready to watch the rest of the show.

Well, the rest of the show included a BMX bicycle group, which I wasn’t very enthusiastic about until they did some back flips off of ramps. I don’t know what bikes have to do with Headlights and Tailpipes, but I liked the flips. I am giving this show an 8.0 out of a possible 10. If you are under 35, don’t mind Tehcno-pop vocals and some Rap, then this is a show you will like even more than I did. I just wasn’t in the demographic. However, I am giving this show a passing grade with some reservations because the dancers are just outstanding.
——————-
From “Eye On Vegas”

The Eye has learned that plans have been finalized for the replacement resort that will be built after the implosion of the long-standing New Frontier toward the end of the year. Coined ‘Montreux,’ the resort will apparently feature a Swiss mountain theme that will carry a price tag of $1.9 billion and will feature 2,500 rooms, large retail area, and, of course, the requisite F&B and entertainment amenities. Renowned architect Paul Steelman has been hired to design the property that is tentatively slated for a 2009 opening.

Rumors are running rampant that retired hip hop legend Jay-Z is in talks to take part in a Las Vegas casino, discussion that may have started over bringing his popular East Coast nightclub, the 40/40 Club, to sin city. Hova’s nightclub concept originally started in New York City and enjoyed a successful expansion to Atlantic City last year. We’re not sure how much credence we’d put into this one, however, a 40/40 club is reported to be opening in Los Angeles towards the end of the year and far-east destinations as exotic as Shangai, Hong Kong and Tokyo are optimistically hoped for by 2010.

After 10 months, massive publicity and multiple rumors about its demise, Related Las Vegas has closed the Las Ramblas sales office and has sold the 25-acre plot of land to the Edge Group, the developers of the neighboring W Hotel, Casino & Residences, for $202 million. The project was to be one of the centerpieces of the so-called Harmon Corridor (Harmon Avenue from Paradise Road to Las Vegas Boulevard) in which the W Group now owns 50 acres. As usual, rising construction costs are being blamed for the closure of the project, although experts observe that the Miami- and New York-successful company was over-confident in their abilities to negotiate reasonable construction deals in Las Vegas.

On Friday, June 9 the newly single and always stunning Denise Richards will join the Pussycat Dolls Dance Troupe for one night only as she signed on to MC the One Year Anniversary of the Pussycat Dolls Lounge at PURE Nightclub. Richards will mark the fourth occurrence of a celebrity host following in the stilletos of Eva Longoria, who hosted the opening night festivities, Nicollette Sheridan and former LVFBM cover model Pamela Anderson. A few days earlier, Wednesday, June 7 to be exact, former Salt N’ Pepa DJ, DJ Spinderella will be spinning to the masses at Tangerine.

Sushi Roku has officially announced the opening of the Red Sun Lounge, a new addition to the home of some of the Strip’s finest and freshest sushi. The lounge has been constructed in the area of the restaurant adjacent to the bar which had previously contained several sunken tables and legless (yes, leg-less) chairs. The Red Sun Lounge will kick-start Red Sun Happy Hour every day of the week with specials on ice-cold beer and steaming, warm sake to accompany a special sushi menu that will occupy the lounge. Sushi Roku is located on the third floor of the Forum Shops expansion phase. For reservations call 702.733.7373.

With pool-driven madness taking place at properties up and down the Strip you knew it was only a matter of time before a higher-end property like Wynn Las Vegas weighed in with a response. Wynn will be sharing their luxurious version of the five senses in a series of parties that get started on Friday, June 9. Taking care of the Taste, Touch and Smell categories will be Mark LoRusso, executive chef of Tableau, Grant MacPherson (executive chef of Wynn Las Vegas) and Frederic Robert (executive pastry dhef of Wynn Las Vegas) who will offer tantalizing tastings of their culinary creations. Providing the entertainment, as well as handling the Sound and Sight categories, will be the on-the-rise jazz sensation, Kyle Riabko. The poolside experience kicks-off at 8P with a $150 price tag on the tickets. Riabko is a well respected youngster on the music scene and with a record deal from Columbia, this could be your first chance to see a superstar in waiting. To purchase tickets please call Wynn Las Vegas directly at 702.770.7000.

Speaking of Las Vegas Nightlife organizations operating successful restaurants, the Light Group’s newest restaurant, STACK, continues to be a hit with star power looking to fill their empty stomachs. King of Queens funnyman Kevin James made multiple stops bySTACK last week; three days in a row, as a matter of fact! According to spies within the restaurant the large-and-in-charge comedian’s favorite dish was the Brooklyn Filet. Also stopping by STACK was Denver Broncos’ cornerback Champ Bailey who imbibed in several Orange Vodka and Sodas before heading over to JET Nightclub. Rounding out our celeb list was music mogul Quincy Jones who dined with several friends on Friday night.

When the ‘Big Flamingo’, Don Marandino, said he was going to re-vamp the Flamingo Hotel pool party and several weekly promotions that would go along with it, we never doubted him. That being said, we had no idea he was going so big. How big you ask? How about 80 feet x 80 feet big because that’s the measurement of the Bacardi Bat logo that has been painted on the top floor of the Flamingo Hotel parking garage. The logo and concept, which was the brainstorm of Bacardi’s John Moreschi, Flamingo Pool Queen Charleen Mairs and Vice President Gino Lafrate, can be seen not only from the Flamingo Hotel, where it beckons guests with a “Why aren’t you down here?” tagline, but additionally, it can be seen from Bally’s, the Imperial Palace and Caesars Palace. Now that’s marketing! Shout-outs to Brian Pritchett of BP Paint who designed and painted the piece, as well as to Randy Phillips of Color Reflections who helped design the stencil. Are you looking to logo up or paint part of your property? E-mail us here and we can put you in touch with the qualified team behind the 80-foot Bacardi Bat.

The Official Bacardi Beach Bash takes place at the Flamingo Pool every Saturday from noon-4P.
http://www.eyeonvegas.net/site/neweye.html
————–
Lenny’s Las Vegas

Magical Anniversary
Burton celebrates 10 years with ‘The Solid Gold Lady’

Time flies, especially as we get older, it seems, but I was surprised to learn that next month, Lance Burton will celebrate 10 years of magic at the Monte Carlo. I remember it like it was yesterday, going to opening night and then interviewing him a few weeks later. Not only is he a great magician, but he’s been a great resident of our town, giving his time to all kinds of charities and events. I wish him another 10 good years and more here.

I’m also looking forward to June 21, when Burton will present his newest creation called “The Solid Gold Lady” in which he will try to make $10 million in gold bricks disappear. And in case you’re wondering, it’s the real thing. Each night, the bricks will be taken from the Monte Carlo vault and delivered to the stage by armed security, so if you’re thinking of planning a heist, I’d think again.

Burton says it has taken him five years to perfect the illusion. Once he did and felt ready to go with it, there was a last-minute snag. Apparently, because of insurance concerns, Burton said, “I am not allowed to physically touch the gold. This is going to make the illusion much harder to accomplish, but I am not taking this personally,” he adds with a laugh. “I’m not allowed to play blackjack in the casino either. Keep your fingers crossed.”

Randy Morton, Monte Carlo prez, said, “At first I thought Lance was joking when he asked us to provide him with $10 million in gold. He eventually convinced me that this was for real and I agreed to go along with him. I had only one condition — I made him promise to bring the gold back at the end of the evening.” The magician will be offering a special $10 discount for his 10 p.m. performance beginning in June.
—————-
NORM: Hotel sells, minus two Hendrix items.

Peter Morton is giving up a priceless collection of pop memorabilia with the sale of the Hard Rock Hotel.

All but two Jimi Hendrix items will be included in the $770 million purchase by Morgans Hotel Group, in a deal announced Thursday.

“My two boys wanted Jimi’s floral print jacket and his flying V guitar,” Morton said in a telephone interview.

He also gave up the Hard Rock Hotel brand name, which he created with co-founder Isaac Tigrett with the launch of their Hard Rock Cafe empire in 1971 in London.

He’s not giving up on Las Vegas, however.

“How could anyone be done with Vegas? It’s been fantastic to me.”

I asked Morton whether there was any truth to rumors that the Hard Rock’s $1 billion expansion project had soured him and was a catalyst behind the sale.

“Not at all,” Morton said. “I’ve been thinking about this for a long time.”

For now, his focus is on Hollywood, he said. He’s the executive producer of the upcoming film “Stardust,” co-starring Robert De Niro, Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sienna Miller “and some great young English actors,” he said. It’s being filmed in England.

His oldest son, Harry, 25, is taking the Hard Rock’s Pink Taco Mexican restaurant brand to Los Angeles, Scottsdale in Arizona and possibly beyond, Morton said.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM: Hotel sells, minus two Hendrix items
————
Brett’s Vegas Views By Jackie Brett

Wynn Resorts broke ground on its newest expansion, Encore, on the site of the original Desert Inn. The resort will be erected adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas on the north side of the property and is scheduled for completion in December 2008.

The Encore April 28 groundbreaking commemorated a memorable date in Las Vegas history with both the opening of the Desert Inn and Wynn Las Vegas. On April 28, 2000, Steve Wynn and the newly formed Wynn Resorts acquired the Desert Inn property. Exactly five years later, Wynn Las Vegas opened its doors on April 28, 2005. Over its 56-year heritage, this site has embraced a resort philosophy with golf and spa coupled with entertainment as well as gaming.

Encore will be developed and mark the second full-scale hotel to occupy a portion of the company’s 240-acre assembly of real estate in Las Vegas. The expansion of the resort will be fully integrated with neighboring Wynn Las Vegas, containing all the usual elements that complete a resort experience; including additional rooms, convention and meeting space, more casino space, restaurants, nightclubs, spa and salon, retail outlets and swimming pools.

Gordie Brown, after headlining at the Golden Nugget downtown, has signed a multi-year agreement to bring his edgy mix of music, comedy and impressions to The Venetian beginning in August. Accompanied by a live band, Brown will perform his raucous act in a newly constructed, 800-seat theater in The Venetian.

Gordie Brown at The Venetian will be presented by Bernie Yuman, the longtime manager of Siegfried & Roy, and produced by BASE Entertainment, which is also currently producing “Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular” at The Venetian, and Bernie Yuman Management.

The Monopoly game maker is planning a new version called Monopoly Here & Now with plans for it to be in stores this August. The idea is for the new board game to represent 22 of America’s greatest destination cities and Las Vegas is one of them. Now through May 12, Monopoly fans are asked to vote online at www.monopoly.com from among three landmarks picked to represent each destination. For Las Vegas, the choices are Hoover Dam, “The Strip” and Tropicana Avenue. The favorite top vote getter nationwide will occupy the coveted Boardwalk position.

“Menopause The Musical®,” the show that is a celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change,” will be adding an 11th show to their 10-show lineup at the Las Vegas Hilton. Effective May 8, there will be a 7 p.m. show every Monday. The hit show recently celebrated its 100th performance with two casts sharing the work schedule.

Tabú ultra lounge at the MGM Grand continues to break new ground with technology that stimulates the senses. Tabú is introducing patrons to five interactive tabletops and the “Human Locator” system.

This new-layered interactive technology, exclusively by Realisations, Inc., allows the club to manipulate any image or video projected on the tabletops to become a playful element of the nightlife experience. Using infrared technology, the system reacts to body heat sensitive motion sensors to bring to life the image or video reflected on the tabletops.

The Cannery will hold the fourth annual Blues, Brews and Barbecue festival June 23 - 24 at The Club indoor / outdoor festival grounds. The event serves up various styles of barbecue from notable local restaurants along with craft brewed beers and hard ciders. Festival hours are Friday, June 23 from 5 p.m. to midnight and Saturday, June 24 from 2 p.m. to midnight. Admission is $5 at the door.

There will be continuous entertainment throughout both days of the festival. A newcomer to the Cannery’s festival will be Janis Joplin’s original band, Big Brother & The Holding Company performing on Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 10 p.m. John Lee Hooker Jr. will sing blues songs from his Grammy nominated CD, “Blues with a Vengeance,” on Friday at 10 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

The Reading Room is an intimate bookstore at Mandalay Place that offers book signings.
Janet Evanovich, author of “12 Sharp,” the latest novel in Evanovich’s most popular series with lead character Stephanie Plumb, will be signing on Friday, June 23 at 3 p.m.

http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/043006.htm
————–
Demise of Broadway in Vegas raises questions.
By Mike Weatherford
From The Las Vegas Review Journal

Should what happens on Broadway stay on Broadway?

The second closing of a Broadway musical in as many months raises questions of whether Las Vegas casinos have imported unfair expectations along with the titles.

Local producers of “Hairspray” announced Monday the show will close Sunday, after four months at Luxor. Co-producers Michael Gill and Myron Martin would not comment beyond Gill’s statement, “The show did not find the audience it needed for us to continue.”

It follows the May closing of “Avenue Q” at Wynn Las Vegas and last year’s closing of “We Will Rock You,” a musical imported from London, not Broadway.

More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-07-Wed-2006/news/7821063.html
————–
NORM: Jillette named in suit over firings.

Three San Francisco radio personalities who were fired for encouraging listeners to kill comedy magician Penn Jillette have filed a lawsuit for wrongful termination.

KIFR-FM, 106.9 talk-show hosts John London, Dennis Cruz and Chris Townsend also sued for breach of contract, interference with a business contract and other actions, according to a news release.

lawsuit, filed in San Francisco Superior Court, names CBS Radio, Jillette and KIFR. Jillette was sued, the lawsuit contends, because he urged CBS Radio CEO Joel Hollander to immediately fire the trio, who had a “no cut” contract that ran through Oct. 19, 2007.

The three men were fired in April after taking issue with Jillette’s scathing riff about Mother Teresa on his syndicated CBS radio show, which aired on KIFR.

The suit alleges that Jillette compared the Nobel Peace Prize recipient to Charles Manson, and that she “got her kicks watching people suffer and die.”

London countered, on air, “Penn Jillette has said on a number of occasions that words do not hurt people. We should be able to say whatever we want, in the open marketplace of ideas.

“So here’s a little string of sentences for ya: How about if I give somebody $5,000 to kill ya? I’ll add $2,000 to that if there’s some suffering attached to it.”
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-08-Thu-2006/news/7844659.html
————–
How To Make a Pass Line Bet by Bill Burton

Craps is not as confusing as it looks. It actually is an easy game to learn. An understanding of the basics of the game and how to make a passline bet will get you started on your way. You don’t have to be concerned with any other of the craps bets when you begin to play craps. There are about 40 different bets that can be made on a craps layout but most of them like the proposition and hardway bets have terrible odds that you should avoid.

To get started playing craps, all you need to understand is the basic pass line bet. A pass line bet in craps with its low house edge of 1.41 percent made it one of the best bets in the casino.

More Here:
http://casinogambling.about.com/od/craps/ss/passline.htm
—————-
5 Millionth Showgoer Sees “Legends in Concert” at Imperial Palace

Veronica Flori, and her fiancé, Charles Bray, were just entering the Imperial Theatre last night to see the 7:30 p.m. show of “Legends in Concert” at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino when they were asked to step out of the line.

Bray said at first he thought they were in trouble, but how could that be? “We didn’t cut in line, so we didn’t know what was going on,” Bray said.

Then the engaged couple from Ottawa, Ill., learned that Flori was the 5 millionth showgoer to see the celebrity tribute spectacular, now in its 24th year.

Escorted to their VIP table by showgirls and toasted with a bottle of Dom Perignon, Flori and Bray were introduced to the audience from the stage by Marcel Forestieri as Jay Leno, who announced to the lucky winners their gifts of a Luv Tub Getaway and $500 in cash.

And as the show finale got under way, Flori and Bray were escorted onto the stage, where they received an oversized certificate marking this significant milestone, while being serenaded by the entire cast led by Matt Lewis as Elvis singing “Viva Las Vegas.”

“We felt like we just won a jackpot,” Bray said.

Flori and Bray also received a wooden wall plaque noting their selection as the 5 millionth showgoer in “Legends in Concert.”

But there was still one unanswered question – about the oversized certificate.

“How are we going to carry this home?” Flori chuckled.

“Legends in Concert” debuted May 5, 1983, with impersonators Buddy Holly, Janis Joplin, Marilyn Monroe, Bobby Darin and Elvis. Since then, 70 celebrities have been impersonated on the Imperial Theatre stage during more than 14,000 performances, making “Legends” the longest-running independently owned production show on the Las Vegas Strip. The most impersonated act has been the man once nicknamed “Elvis the Pelvis,” with 16 different performers paying tribute to the legendary “King of Rock and Roll.”
—————-
“Lunchtime With Ira”

“Lunchtime With Ira, Live from the Las Vegas Hilton,” a weekly radio show broadcast from the classic property’s Shimmer Cabaret on KDWN AM 720 TALK RADIO in Las Vegas, carried nationally on Cable Radio Networks (CRN), aired on the Watchit Television Network (Watchit Media, Inc.) channels on hotel in-room television sets, and streamed live (and archived) on www.lvhilton.com, is now available as a pod cast on the property’s Web Site (the aforementioned www.lvhilton.com). The show, produced live every Monday at noon, features Ira David Sternberg talking with the celebrities, entertainers, writers and personalities who make Las Vegas the most exciting city in the world.

Ira David Sternberg talks with Celebrity Week editor-in-chief Sean Daly, Fabulous Las Vegas columnist John Katsilometes, Sunset Strip’s Steven Lee and Lorena Peril and The Wine Guy this Monday (June 12) at noon. And, in case you didn’t read the item above, “Lunchtime with Ira” is broadcast live from the Las Vegas Hilton on KDWN AM 720 TALK RADIO in Las Vegas, carried nationally on Cable Radio Networks (CRN), streamed live, archived and pod cast on www.lvhilton.com, and aired on the Watchit Television Network (Watchit Media, Inc.) channels on hotel in-room television sets.
————-
The Lowdown on Increasing Fees by Rick Garman
A disturbing trend is emerging at Las Vegas hotels and it’s called a “Resort Fee.” Up until now most hotels in the area charged a room rate and tax then tacked on any additional charges on an ala carte basis. Want to use the gym? That’ll be an additional $20 please. Need to make some phone calls? That’ll be $1 a minute. Need a place to park? Well, that’s usually free.

Not anymore.

Several major hotels have tacked on a so-called Resort or Facilities Fee on top of the regular room rate. What this fee covers, and in fact how much it is, varies based upon what hotel you’re staying at, but generally speaking it includes things that most people will never use or that they got for free before.

For instance, the new Red Rock Resort and its sister hotel Green Valley Ranch each charge a daily $19.95 Resort Fee on top of the regular room rate. At Red Rock this includes nightly turn down service, a daily newspaper, access to the fitness center, spa, and pool, a daily shoeshine, access to the 24-hour concierge service, and transporation to and from the airport or the Fashion Show mall on The Strip. At Green Valley the list is virtually identical except it including in-room coffee service.

Remember this is a daily fee and there is no way to opt-out of it. So if they quote you a $199 room rate, automatically tack on an additional $20.

So why do this instead of raising the room rates by $20? No one I spoke to was willing to comment on the practice on the record except to say uninteresting things like “added value” but what it really boils down to is a perception. It’s easier to quote a room rate of $199 and sock you with an additional $20 a night charge than to quote $219 inclusive.

At least at Red Rock and Green Valley they are offering you something for that $20. I know most people will never use the gym or Jacuzzi but other hotels charge anywhere from $20-$35 a day to use their facilities so that alone is worth it if you plan on doing so.

But other hotels are adding these fees for virtually no additional recognizable benefit. The Hard Rock Hotel charges a $5 a night “Amenities Fee” that covers the 42” plasma television in your room and upgraded Bose stereo system. Never mind that you’ll find these in every single room and there is no way to get a room without one, that’ll be an extra $5 a night please.

The Stratosphere is also charging a $5 a night resort fee that includes access to the pool and fitness center plus free tower access (normally a $9 charge) but only between the hours of 10am and 2pm. You also get 2-for-1 show tickets and a coupon book for other discounts, but remember, these are things most hotels used to give away for free.

Other hotels that I found currently charging extra fees include the Station properties like Sunset, Texas, and Santa Fe, each charging a $5 a night tariff for parking, free local and toll-free calls (oxymoron much?), workout room access, and discounts at the hotel gift shop.

The new Signature condo-hotel at MGM Grand charges an additional $15 a day but that includes free wired or wireless Internet service, two bottles of water a day (which in Vegas can run you $6 a bottle), fitness center access, coffee service, and a newspaper.

The Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas also charges a fee but they seem to provide the most bang for the buck, presuming you’re interested in the things that are included. Their $20 per night resort fee includes daily morning coffee in the lobby, a shuttle around Lake Las Vegas, a $20 gift certificate to use at the spa boutique, gym and spa access, exercise classes, discounts on golf rates, and all of the sports equipment like croquet sets and mountain bikes.

Currently those were the hotels that I could find that charge the extra fee. As of this writing Bally’s, Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Four Seasons, Harrah’s, the JW Marriott, the Las Vegas Hilton, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, Mirage, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Orleans, Palms, Paris Las Vegas, The Rio, Silverton, South Coast, Suncoast, THEhotel, Treasure Island, The Venetian, and Wynn Las Vegas do not charge any type of additional resort or facilities fee.

But I guarantee you the bean counters at all of these places are all watching this new trend with interest and if it does not negatively affect business you can expect to see more of the popping up at hotels around town.

So what can be done to stop it? Probably nothing. But if you’re serious about wanting to try you can do two things… be sure to ask when booking a hotel if there are any additional fees and if they have one, tell the reservation agent that you intend to book a room at a hotel that doesn’t have one. There is some anecdotal evidence that some places will waive the fee if they know you are serious about taking your business elsewhere, but this is not a guarantee.

Second, if you stay at a hotel that does have one, complain about it. Again, there have been stories of people getting these fees taken off their bills either through comp points or just by desk clerks who don’t want to deal with the angry voices anymore.

My personal opinion is that this kind of thing is obscene, especially when room rates are skyrocketing already. Tack on the fact that some of these fees are covering things you used to get for free (PARKING??!??!) and it really adds insult to your hotel bill injury.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/column/index.htm
————–
Las Vegas Q and A by Rick Garman
Question: Of all of the upcoming hotel projects, which one are you looking forward to the most?

Answer: That’s a tough call, Lee, not because I’m so full of anticipation for the new hotels coming to a Strip near you but because there’s just not a lot on the list that I’m terribly excited by.

Let’s be clear… Project CityCenter from MGM Mirage, if executed according to the vision, should be a revolutionary and spectacular addition to the city’s skyline. Ditto Echelon Place, the Stardust replacement. And you can never discount the new projects from the visionaries of this city: Steve Wynn’s Encore, Sheldon Adelson’s Palazzo, and even Donald Trump’s International.

But all of these and the other new projects heading down the Strip feel a little, well, bland. Compared to the visual wonder of places like New York-New York, Bellagio, Paris, and The Mirage, these sleek new luxurious palaces will certainly be nice but risk a lack of a distinctive personality, one of the things that made Wynn Las Vegas a creative disappointment to some.

This is what we have to look forward to through the end of this decade so perhaps it’s the next decade that I’m looking forward to in terms of Las Vegas development. I’m waiting anxiously for the day when a casino developer says “the luxury market is over-saturated so I’m going to build the best hotel in the world aimed squarely at the leisure traveler – those middle America, middle income, dependable folks who aren’t always in search of the hippest and the hottest and therefore willing to abandon you the next time something prettier and shinier comes along.”

Does anyone else remember the first time they saw places like New York-New York or The Venetian? Jaw dropping is the term I’m looking for. It’s the kind of thing where you couldn’t believe what your lying eyes were telling you and you couldn’t wait to get back home to tell people about the wild thing those nutjobs in Vegas thought of this time.

Simply put, I’m looking forward to the day when the next wave of casino development in this city is about bringing the kind of fun back to Vegas that doesn’t have to stay in Vegas.

Question: Is it true that room rates are cheap during the summer months?

Answer: Like everything else in Vegas, Abby, cheap is a relative term these days. Cheaper than normal? As a generally rule, yes. Cheap? Not in my book.

I called and surfed the Internet for a few different hotels just for grins and this is what I found…

Bellagio is offering weekday rooms as $169 in June and July, which is really a steal compared to what they usually charge. Now granted, most summer dates are still well over $200 with a few over $400 but compared to what they charge during peak periods it’s still cheaper.

The other ultra-expensive hotel in town, Wynn Las Vegas, had a couple of weekdays at $179 a night most were between $200 and $300 a night while most weekends are running well over $300 a night. I guess when you consider that they often charge over $400 a night on peak weekends you are saving yourself a little bit of dough by coming during the summer.

On the next tier down I checked Paris and the Mirage. The former was offering ooo-la-la rates as low as $119 per night during the week but most were averaging in the $139 range. Weekends were going for as low as $189 but most were well over $200. The Mirage was similar, with weekday rates as low as $109 but most in the $129-$179 range with weekends as low as $169 but mostly over $200.

Down one more notch on the price ladder I looked at Luxor and Bally’s. Luxor had rooms as low as $89 in June, July, and August with most weekdays hovering around $100 and most weekends in the $150-$200 range. Bally’s was similar with weekday rates as low as $79 and only a few ever going over $100 with weekends about the same as Luxor.

On the low end of the price spectrum I checked The Stratosphere and few of the “neighborhood” casinos in the Station portfolio. You could get rooms at the big tower for as low as $30 a night during the week with very few ever going over $50 while weekends were as low as $70 and almost never over $100. Station properties like Sunset and Texas were mostly in the $50 a night range during the week and $100 a night range on the weekends. Of course those don’t include the obnoxious new facilities fees they are charging so tack on another $5.

So overall yes, you can save money on your rooms by coming during the summer but not as much as you used to.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/
————-
Vegas Values Report for 6/4/06

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.
http://www.americancasinoguide.com/Promotions/VEGAS-VALUES.shtml
—————
The Original Las Vegas Podcast

Montreux sketches and details
A few of Harrah’s plans emerge
Stratosphere plans for new nightclub way up high
Desert Passage becomes Miracle Mile
Oprah visits Las Vegas
Tropicana will soon be filled with corpses, and we’re not talking about the patrons
Steve Wynn slaps Franco Dragone
Monkeypokerdome update
Send us Las Vegas book recommendations
http://www.fivehundybymidnight.com/fhbm/
————–
“RIV IT UP” IS A FREE VARIETY SHOW
DAILY AT THE RIVIERA

Song stylist/hostess Mary Jane Samoy has been bringing her “Riv It Up” troupe of acrobatic merrymakers to the casino’s open-air center stage at the world-famous Riviera Hotel and Casino for more than two months. “There’s no end in sight!” said the curvy entertainer. “The lineup now includes magic and impersonators.”

Samoy has performed professionally in major showrooms, cruise ships and casinos in the United States and overseas. She was a Grammy nominee in 1987 for “Play at Your Own Risk. A bundle of talent, she keeps Riv It Up moving at a rapid pace. She is the perfect hostess and MC.

Her gang includes Larissa Youens specializing in the art of acrobatics with hoops; Passion 2 Balance (Nelson Pivaral & Goulia Rozyeva) the exotic adagio balancing duo, and Mr. Stoyan Metchkarov, a Rolla Bolla, Russian Bar acrobat.

Les McKinney has been added to the main state schedule. Her performs stage illusions which can be viewed from 360 degree angles!

Doug Masters and Gene Sironen impersonate The Righteous Brothers.

Shows are FREE daily at 12:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 3:l5 p.m., and 4:45 p.m. The show’s familiar faces also performed under the name of “Air Play.” Acts and times are subject to change. Call the resort at: (702) 734-5110.
————–
“RIBBON OF LIFE” APPEARANCE LEADS TO CUT OF NEW SINGLE

Tim Searcy’s “We Can All Make A Difference” Now A CD Single; Opens “Ribbon of Life 2006” with Encore Performance at June 10 & 11 Shows

At last year’s “Ribbon of Life” stage spectacular, Tim Searcy stole the show with the world premiere of his new song, “We Can All Make A Difference.” The performance went on to win two Toddy Awards, for Best in Show and Best Male Vocal Performance. Now, the song has just been released as a CD single, and Searcy will open this year’s “Ribbon of Life” show with a special encore performance.

The song’s searing lyrics are an anthem to Golden Rainbow and its mission:

“Want to make a difference is a helping hand
Someone who cares
Shouts out and takes a stand
Wanna make a difference
Is somebody who believes
Who believes in me
Who I am makes a difference
Cause I believe that I can
Together we can all make a difference”

Also appearing in the 20th annual “Ribbon of Life” are 28 shows and local groups, the most ever to perform in “Ribbon of Life.” Shows represented include American Superstars, A New Day, Breck Wall Productions, Cirque du Soleil, Dragapella, Fantasy, Fashionistas, Folies Bergere, Foy & Baker Productions, Hairspray, Headlights and Tailpipes, Clint Holmes, Jubilee!, Ka, Krave, Legends in Concert, Mamma Mia, MGM Grand Productions, Missy Cochran Entertainment, Mystere, O, Rio’s Show in the Sky, Sirens of T.I., Splash, Tangerine, UNLV Drum Corps, The Vamps Girlie Revue and Viva Las Vegas.

Clint Holmes will make an exclusive appearance at Saturday’s production, and Sunday’s show will feature a tribute to Siegfried & Roy.

The 20th annual “Ribbon of Life” production spectacular is staged in the Jubilee! Theatre at Bally’s Las Vegas June 10 and 11 at 1:00 p.m. each day. Tickets range from $50 to $200 and are available now by calling (702) 384-2899 or online at GoldenRainbow.org.
—————
LAS VEGAS HILTON KICKS OFF NFR WITH THREE TOP ACTS
BROOKS & DUNN, VINCE GILL, BIG & RICH JOIN LINEUP
The Las Vegas Hilton has signed three of country’s top selling acts for National Finals Rodeo (NFR), including previously announced Brooks & Dunn, Vince Gill, and Big & Rich. All three acts will headline in the Hilton Theater.

The Las Vegas Hilton Brooks & Dunn performances, December 4-6, are part of “The Long Haul Tour,” presented by Toyota Tundra.

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn debuted as Brooks & Dunn in 1991 and became the nation’s premier country music singer-songwriter duo. They have won the “Vocal Duo” Award of the Country Music Association every year between 1999 and 2005 (except for 2000). B&D’s music covers the full range of modern country music, and both band members write, sing, and play guitar. Their latest album is Hillbilly Deluxe, which features the number one single “Play Something Country.”

Vince Gill, despite 15 Grammy awards, 18 CMA honors (including “Entertainer of the Year” twice and “Song of the Year” four times) and 22 million in album sales, is, at heart, still the Oklahoma kid who picked up a guitar about the time he could walk and never looked back.

Big & Rich, the popular country music duo of Big Kenny (Kenny Alphin) and John Rich (formerly of Lonestar) have performed together since 1998. Their first album, Horse of a Different Color” (2004) reached number one on both the Billboard national chart as well as the Billboard country music chart.

Brooks & Dunn will perform December 4, 5, 6 at 10 p.m. in the Hilton Theater. Tickets are $135 (plus tax and service charge), $100 (plus tax and service charge) and VIP seating, which includes a meet-and-greet with Brooks & Dunn, priced at $195 (plus tax and service charge). Big & Rich will perform December 1 at 10 p.m., 2 & 3 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $90 and $80 (plus tax and service charge. Vince Gill will perform December 7 & 8 at 10 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $65 and $50 (plus tax and service charge). Tickets 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.
——————-
I hope you enjoyed this newsletter. Please feel feel to post a comment.

Steve

Posted on June 9th, 2006 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter