Everything Las Vegas Issue # 583
July 21st, 2006
Eileen and I are back from Las Vegas. We had another great time. We saw “Love,” “The Scintas,” “Legends In Concert” and “The Price Is Right” where the husband of the couple we met there won the right to enter the climactic “Showcase Showdown.” More about that in our fourthcoming trip report.
We had some great meals including one that our friends descibed as “the best dinner in their entire lives.”
We also met Hunter, the website and forum guru in Las Vegas and he gave me some great news. The newsletter website is gaining new readers by the rate of 20% per month and total hits are almost 100,000 per month! This is not counting the Forums. (We have an easy access FORUM link at the top of the webiste.)
The next project for the website will be the addition of travel, show tickets and hotel links.
Now on to the newsletter:
NORM: ‘Ocean’s 13′ crew scouts locations.
Directer Steven Soderberg’s “Ocean’s 13″ will return to the Bellagio, site of most of the indoor action for the remake of “Ocean’s Eleven” in 2001, it was confirmed Thursday.
Soderberg and producer Jerry Weintraub were in town last week, along with 40 members of the creative team, scouting out locations for the shoot, according to Bernie Yuman, Weintraub’s assistant.
New cast member Al Pacino was spotted in Las Vegas on Thursday, meeting with MGM Mirage executive Bobby Baldwin, who ran the Bellagio until recently.
Crews will film Aug. 6-9 at the Bellagio. Most of the Warner Bros. film will be shot in Hollywood.
reviewjournal.com — News – NORM: ‘Ocean’s 13′ crew scouts locations
SHOW REVIEWS: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic” and “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater”
Afternoons at the V: Burton’s magic, Popovich’s pets offer cool escape from hot weather.
By Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal
It’s summer, it’s hot out there, and you can do worse than sit in an air-conditioned theater to watch a cat pull itself across the chin-up bar by its front feet.
Las Vegas doesn’t collectively market itself to families anymore, but enterprising showmen know they are here in the summer and that you can snag them with an all-ages show at a decent price.
The V Theatre in the Aladdin’s Desert Passage mall is pulling respectable crowds for back-to-back matinees: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic” at 2 p.m. and the “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater” at 3:30 p.m. Each begins with a video commercial for its roommate; a full-price ticket for one gets you a half-price ticket for the other.
REVIEWS
what: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic”
when: 2 p.m. Saturdays-Thursdays
where: V Theatre at Desert Passage mall, 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South
tickets: $21.80 (932- 1818)
grade: B
what: “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater”
when: 3:30 p.m. Saturdays-Thursdays
where: V Theatre at Desert Passage mall, 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South
tickets: $15-$29 (932-1818)
grade: B
More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-21-Fri-
Steve’s Las Vegas Quickies
“Cash Grab” has returned to the New Frontier. Every day, the casino will select six people to spend 20 seconds in a wind machine to collect cash, Macy’s gift cards and bonus points. At 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., winners will be chosen randomly from among players on the floor using their slot club card and at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. winners will be chosen via a drawing. Players reluctant to enter the wind machine can select a staff member to substitute for them.
reviewjournal.com — Neon – PLAYER’S EDGE
As of August 1, 2006, three of Tropicana’s restaurant outlets will be
renamed.
Savanna Steak House will become Legends Steak & Seafood
Legends Deli will become Player’s Deli
Calypsos will become Garden Café
Rio headliners Penn & Teller have been nominated for three Emmy awards for their Showtime series, “Bull —-,” it was announced Thursday. The show was nominated for Outstanding Reality Program, Outstanding Writing for Nonfiction Programming and Outstanding Picture Editing for Nonfiction Programming. In a statement, Teller, the silent half (onstage, anyway) of the comedy-magic team, said, “On one of our ‘Bull—-’ shows we said all awards were bull—-. OK, so sometimes we’re wrong. If I get an Emmy with the title of our show inscribed on it, I will laugh and sing. I’m already chortling and humming at the nomination.”
Las Vegas SUN: John Katsilometes
If you’re heading to Vegas any time in the next couple of months you have to put the Bellagio Conservatory on your list of “must sees.” Their latest installation features a toy train theme with dozens of chugging choo-choos winding their ways through the garden areas past replicas of everything from Mount Rushmore to the Capitol Building to The Bellagio itself (complete with a miniature fountain out front). The whole thing is done from flowers and other natural materials and at the center of the display is a massive Banyan tree with pathways in and around the foliage and under some dancing water geysers (you won’t get wet, I promise). It really is a lovely change of pace from the typical Vegas madness so don’t miss it.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/column/index.htm
A Penny For Your Slots – The SpaceQuest Casino at the Las Vegas Hilton is the newest home to penny slots: 12 new Bally’s CineVision games with four different versions – Gold & Gems, Green Stamps, Bonus Frenzy, and American Original. Additional features are great graphics and some fantastic new bonuses.
http://www.las-vegas-news-reviews.com/06-07-05.htm
The Karaoke Club at the Imperial Palace is back by popular demand – but in a new home on the third floor next to the Sports Bar. Crooners, divas and American Idol wannabes can once again choose from 15,000 songs nightly as Tequila Joe’s former DJ Rusty Varney has returned as host.
“Hot Country Night Under the Neon Lights” will be a special free mid-summer concert starring country crooner Tracy Lawrence performing under the Viva Vision canopy downtown on Wednesday, July 26. The show is timed to coincide with the World Market Center convention.
Fitzgeralds has brought back the tic-tac-toe-playing chicken until August. It’s a promotion that has gone around the casinos off and on for many years. The highly trained chickens always go first, and are able to follow the strategy that makes it almost impossible for them to lose. The chickens are playing their game daily between noon and 8 p.m.
Local entertainer Robert Allen started The Vegas Mob Tour on July 15. It will be a 2 1/2 hour bus journey of Sin City landmarks. Guides will be dressed in pinstriped suits and fedoras. For reservations, call 702-737-5540.
New ad in “What’s On” magazine has a new 2 for 1 coupon for the Earl Turner Show and 2 for 1 coupon to THE FEAST buffet.
In honor of it’s 40th birthday, The Four Queens is offering all kinds of meal deals for it’s Royal Player’s Club Members.
The newest Poker Room in Las Vegas will be at Fitzgerald’s.
Monti Rock lll says that business is picking up for The Scintas at The Sahara. That’s great news for this great show. Our Forum members are also reporting that there are half-priced tickets available at the 1/2 priced ticket outlets in Las Vegas.
Look for David Cassidy to open and star in a show at The Greek Isles.
Splash at The Riviera is now doing shows 7 days a week! This show is really great but the new PR people from the show have not returned any calls I have made to them or answered any emails I have sent to them. I used to get tons of media stuff about this show, now I don’t get any. Go figure.
Binion’s has a new daily slot tournament with a $1,000 top prize and a daily prize total of $3,000. The tournament begins at noon, but you can sign up as early as 9 a.m. The first entry is $10, rebuys are $5. The first and second place at each round wins $40 and $20 and advance to the final round.
Envy the Steakhouse at the Renaissance Las Vegas, 3400 Paradise Road, has introduced a jazz brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday, with live jazz from noon to 3 p.m.
Two show closings: Headlights And Tailpipes closed overnight at the Stardust and Buck Wild will be clsoing soon at The Sahara.
The long-expected closing of Ra at the Luxor was made official Wednesday. The space will be occupied by three venues from Pure Management Group: Nightclubs LAX and the Roxy (two famed Los Angeles hot spots) will be joined by a third yet-to-be-announced restaurant. Ra closes for good Saturday night.
Gerry McCambridge is moving from afternoons at the Stardust’s Hypnotic Lounge to evenings at the Stardust Theater, beginning at 9 p.m. Friday. The seating capacity for McCambridge’s shows vaults from 250 at the lounge to 850 in the theater. His ticket prices rise from $27.95 for the afternoon show to $34.95 and $39.95 in the theater.
The Golden Nugget has opened its new plush Poker room to the public and it has been well received by the players. Amateurs and professionals can buy-in to the daily Texas Hold’Em tournaments offered at 11 a.m, 7 p.m., and 1 a.m.
There’s a great act performing inside the “V Theater” in the Desert Passage, it’s called “Pet Theater.” Many years ago Gregory Popovich and his cats performed at Circus-Circus and he hired me to do some publicity for him. Over the years he has traveled the world entertaining with his animals. Back then he had only himself and a small array of cats and dogs. Today he has 15 talented cats and dogs that do amazing things. His show is at 3:30 p.m., Saturday through Thursday. Tickets are $32.00 for adults and $18 for kids two-12.
http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/norm/index.htm
Bruce Ewing, who left “Forever Plaid” after 12 years to join “Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular,” is in good health after having a stent placed in his heart Monday. Ewing, 44, is already home from the hospital. Drop in at his ReJavaNate Coffee Lounge, 3300 E. Flamingo Road, and wish him well.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-20-Thu-2006/news/8581482.html
David Saxe, show producer and operator of the V Theater, is launching “Showtime in Vegas” in the theater on Aug. 4.
The Fridays-only production will go for a “Live at the Apollo” vibe, combining paid variety acts with amateur contestants. Mike P of KVEG-FM 97.5’s “Morning Madhouse” will host.
Rita Rudner clarified her plans for Harrah’s Las Vegas on “State of Nevada,” the KNPR-FM 88.9 radio show.
Rudner told host Dave Berns that when she moves into Clint Holmes’ theater this fall, she will share it with Wayne Newton, using the other six months of the year to continue her new career as a novelist.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-20-Thu-2006/living/8545922.html
This past Sunday, the Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook released its ever popular college wagers including College Games of the Year, and their College Over/Under Regular Season Wins. Games of the year consist of more than 80 marquee match-ups throughout the regular season. Some of the games that have already drew some interest include Ohio St. -1 @ Texas on September 9th, Georgia vs. Florida -4 ½ on October 28th, and Notre Dame at USC -2 on November 25th. Also posted are the over/under regular season wins for 28 of the top programs in the nation. These include Texas at 9 ½, Notre Dame at 10 ½, USC at 9 ½, and Michigan at 9. The SuperBook always provides the current odds and rules.
The Las Vegas Hilton, known internationally as a traditional property, has retained its classic look while simultaneously transforming itself into a contemporary resort, spending more than $40 million dollars in construction and renovation projects. The 3,000 rooms and suites of the Las Vegas Hilton are undergoing a transformation as well, starting with 923 that will feature luxurious beds, flat-screen monitors, internet access, and high-end amenities. The first two floors are ready to come on the market at the end of July.
Toga, toga! Caesars Palace will mark its 40th anniversary with a toga party at the Roman Plaza amphitheater on Aug. 2. Anyone over 21 who arrives in a toga gets in free to the party, which will feature Otis Day and the Knights from “Animal House” fame. Toga-wearing revelers will also be granted free admission to Pure nightclub after the outdoor concert.
reviewjournal.com — News – NORM
Local talent agent Jaki Baskow is in talks to return Jimmy Hopper to a local property and land a showroom for psychic John Edwards’ “Crossing Over” show.
Fitzgeralds and the Suncoast have opened poker rooms. The Fitzgeralds (nonsmoking) room, located on the second floor, runs a Texas hold ‘em No-Limit Tournament every day at noon with a $5 entry fee and $25 buy-in. Players logging 60 hours before Aug. 31 qualify for a $20,000 FreeRoll Tournament on Sept. 10. They also are the only downtown poker room offering a “Bad Beat” jackpot. The Suncoast poker room has a complete player tracking system that awards comp dollars based on time played as well as a “bonus hand” promotion that awards cash when making a four-of-a-kind or better. The room is nonsmoking with 12 tables and several plasma TVs.
reviewjournal.com — Neon – PLAYER’S EDGE
The Onda Wine Lounge has opened at The Mirage, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South, offering wines by the glass, bottle or flight, plus an assortment of artisan cheeses and meats. Hours are 4 p.m. to midnight daily.
reviewjournal.com — Neon – RESTAURANT NEWS
Pho, offering Vietnamese cuisine, has opened at Treasure Island, 3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South. Hours are 11 a.m. to midnight Sundays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
The date for the Las Vegas broadcast of Clint Holmes’ PBS special (on KLVX Channel 10), which was recorded in March at Harrah’s, is Aug. 7. PBS taped three performers in Las Vegas for its “Great Performances” series: Barry Manilow at the Las Vegas Hilton, Andrea Bocelli at Lake Las Vegas and Holmes. “I’m in good company,” said Holmes, whose last show at Harrah’s is Sept. 30. Then he’s off to London to launch his musical, “Jam.”
Las Vegas SUN: John Katsilometes
After over a month of buildup, one lucky Las Vegas visitor finally hit the Wheel of Fortune $.25 progressive as it reached a staggering $1.2 million last week (the jackpot starts in the $200,000 range). Zita Esquivel de Velazquez, a kindergarten aide from Torreon, Mexico, hit the jackpot at Terrible’s Hotel & Casino. “I was playing another machine, but something attracted me to this one,” said Esquivel eerily.
http://www.eyeonvegas.net
Upcoming Las Vegas Entertainment
Chart-topping hard rockers Godsmack hit the Theater Under the Stars at the Hard Rock Hotel on Sept. 24, with Rob Zombie and Shinedown. Tickets are $55-$82.50 and go on sale at noon Saturday at the Hard Rock box office, 4455 Paradise Road, and Ticketmaster outlets.
Legendary shock rocker Alice Cooper headlines the House of Blues on Aug. 13. General admission tickets are $42 in advance, $45 day of show and special reserved seats are $62. Tickets are on sale at the venue box office and Ticketmaster outlets.
Guitar great Jeff Beck stops at the House of Blues on Sept. 29. General admission tickets are $47 in advance, $50 day of show, seated tickets are $65 and special reserved seats are $67. Tickets are onsale at the venue box office and Ticketmaster outlets.
Curled-lip rocker Billy Idol plays The Beach at Mandalay Bay on Aug. 11. Tickets are $45 in advance, $50 day of show, and are on sale at the venue box office.
Seventies rock radio fixtures Kansas play The Railhead at Boulder Station on Sept. 23. Tickets are $26, $37, $42 and $48 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the hotels’ Boarding Pass Rewards Center, 4111 Boulder Highway.
“Cannery Stock — A Salute to Woodstock,” featuring Mountain, Ten Years After, Gregg Rolie and Jimi’s Image (A tribute to Jimi Hendrix) takes place at The Club at the Cannery on Aug. 19. Tickets are $18.95 and $24.95 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Cannery front desk, 2121 E. Craig Road.
Jazz and soul crowd-pleasers George Benson, Al Jarreau and Raul Midon hit The Club at the Cannery on August 26. Tickets are $59.99, $69.99 and $79.99 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Cannery front desk.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-21-Fri-2006/weekly/8567937.html
SHOW REVIEWS: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic” and “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater”
Afternoons at the V: Burton’s magic, Popovich’s pets offer cool escape from hot weather.
By Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal
It’s summer, it’s hot out there, and you can do worse than sit in an air-conditioned theater to watch a cat pull itself across the chin-up bar by its front feet.
Las Vegas doesn’t collectively market itself to families anymore, but enterprising showmen know they are here in the summer and that you can snag them with an all-ages show at a decent price.
The V Theatre in the Aladdin’s Desert Passage mall is pulling respectable crowds for back-to-back matinees: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic” at 2 p.m. and the “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater” at 3:30 p.m. Each begins with a video commercial for its roommate; a full-price ticket for one gets you a half-price ticket for the other.
REVIEWS
what: “Nathan Burton Comedy Magic”
when: 2 p.m. Saturdays-Thursdays
where: V Theatre at Desert Passage mall, 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South
tickets: $21.80 (932- 1818)
grade: B
what: “Popovich Comedy Pet Theater”
when: 3:30 p.m. Saturdays-Thursdays
where: V Theatre at Desert Passage mall, 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South
tickets: $15-$29 (932-1818)
grade: B
More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-21-Fri-2006/weekly/8560980.html
From “Eye On Vegas”
Golden Gaming Ready to Hard Rock.
Morgans Hotel Group, the new owners of the Hard Rock Hotel, has announced that it has entered a casino management partnership with Golden Gaming who will operate the gaming side of the hard rockin’ property. While exact terms have yet to be defined, Golden Gaming will operate all gaming and related activities for a period of up to two years and will additionally have the opportunity to make an equity investment of up to $100 million. It’s certainly an interesting choice as an operator for Morgans Hotel Group because the company operates only three conventional ‘casinos’, only one with table gaming and none in Nevada. Of course, GG has had much more success on the coin-operated side of the fence with more than 30 taverns operating under the Golden Tavern Group branch of the company which includes multiple outlets of PT’s Pub, PT’s Place, PT’s Gold and Sierra Gold.
The agreement becomes even more interesting when you take in mind Morgans’ vision to make the Hard Rock a more upscale, read expensive, property. With little experience in table games and virtually no experience in the tricky business of Vegas comps and luring high rollers through the doors, Golden Gaming will have to learn some lessons on the fly. We don’t mean to sound negative because there is certainly hope for success, especially with Blake Sartini at the helm of Golden Gaming. The GG honcho has plenty of gaming experience from his days as chief operating officer with Station Casinos. He departed in 2001 but remains one of the company’s largest shareholders.
The Eye on Vegas was the first to break the news about Sammy Hagar’s upcoming two-day bash as the Caesars Pavilion gets transformed into the world’s largest Cabo Wabo Cantina for back-to-back nights of concert performances from the former Van Halen front-man. With the Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 performances just around the corner, we wanted to share the rocker’s love of all things tequila with our readers by giving away three pairs of tickets to Saturday night’s performance. To win a pair of tickets to the concert, just tell us what you like the most about the Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Tequila. Simply e-mail us here with the subject heading ‘I want to Live it Up’ and the best responses win!
Sensual Summer Nights
Cirque du Soleil has created a phenomenal offer for locals to help make the sizzling summer heat a touch more sensual. While The Beatles get lovey-dovey down the way, Another Side of Cirque du Soleil has been thrilling fans at New York-New York with Zumanity. Last month, 400 lucky Eye on Vegas readers got to see for themselves what critics have been raving about. While vastly different, and definitely more sensual, Zumanity combines the artful aspects of other Cirque performances with a playful sense of humor, a great live soundtrack and just enough naughty moments to make you blush. The Sensual Summer Nights promotion offers amazing orchestra seats for only $69 per person. Does it get any better? You bet, add a complimentary Zumanit-tini and an aphrodisiac appetizer from the Erotic Café and the evening is set!
http://www.eyeonvegas.net/site/neweye.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Hectic pace of showbiz.
There are different levels of success in Las Vegas and its entertainment. There is Celine Dion with her apartment-sized dressing room, outfitted with group dining room and massage chamber. And there is magician Nathan Burton, saying: “I think we can beat the tow truck if they ever call. We’re only there a short time.”
“There” is the Sahara, one of two places where Burton does his magic act every night. Both shows — the Sahara’s “Buck Wild” and “V — The Ultimate Variety Show” at the Desert Passage mall — are produced by David Saxe. Burton manages to perform in both nightly performances of “V” and one of “Buck Wild,” even though two shows start at 9 p.m. I ride along one night to see how Burton pulls off this trick of what “V” co-star Jeff Hobson calls “tennis showbiz. Back and forth.”
More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/May-21-Sun-2006/living/7449234.html
John Katsilometes recalls the theater expansion at the Rio that helped give Danny Gans’ career a lift.
Long before Danny Gans was a well-known performer on the Strip, Variety magazine attempted to describe his vast collection of onstage personalities.
The entertainment publication settled on, “the Cirque du Soleil of voice.”
That was in 1996 as Gans prepared to debut at the just-opened Stratosphere’s Broadway Showroom. Last week, in a how-flime-ties piece of news, Gans celebrated his 10th anniversary in Las Vegas, enjoying a celebratory cake before his show Tuesday at the Mirage and drawing a standing ovation from a packed house at the Danny Gans Theatre after mentioning the anniversary from the stage.
Gans, who has returned to full-time performing after stepping away in November to have surgery to repair a torn right rotator cuff, was asked through his manager, Melanie VanBurch (Gans tries to limit his verbiage away from the stage), about the moment he’d realized he’d made it in Vegas.
It was not at the Stratosphere, where it all started. Or at the Mirage, where Gans performs in a customized theater bearing his name that cost $15 million to build more than six years ago. It was at the Rio’s Copacabana Showroom, where for a time Gans split time with “At the Copa” starring David Cassidy and Sheena Easton (and I do get a bit nostalgic when recalling the reportedly combustible chemistry of those two stars).
The showroom originally seated 500. But soon after Gans started his run in January 1997, the theater had to be expanded to satisfy the thick stand-by lines of between 200 and 300 fans per night. A couple of bars were removed, walls were knocked out, cocktail tables were added in the back and Gans had forged his first venue expansion. “Yep, this is going to last,” was his thought at the time.
Gans’ contract at the Mirage runs through 2009, making it likely he’ll spend nearly all of this decade at the resort. Having recently turned back an offer from Simon Cowell to be a judge on Cowell’s new show “America’s Got Talent,” and rejecting an offer from Aaron Spelling to star in an autobiographical TV series, Gans is focused “110 percent” on his Mirage show.
Gans is built to last. He works out six times per week (lately he looks like he’s using the same Nautilus equipment settings as Carrot Top, and it’s clear that he expects to smile down on the Strip from that giant marquee for years to come.
Source of article: The Las Vegas Sun
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/do/2006/may/21/566650367.html
Tropicana Bidding: And The Winner Is…
By Rick Garman
It started out relatively simply: Pinnacle Entertainment announced they were going to purchase Aztar Corp, parent company of The Tropicana in both Las Vegas and Atlantic City among other casinos around the country, for about $2.1 billion (or $38 a share). The deal seemed done and the new owners were already talking about the future of the aging Strip hotel. Then things got out of control.
Three other companies leapt into what turned into a massive and unprecedented bidding war for the company with share price bids being topped almost every day. $39 a share. $41 a share. Did I say $41, I meant $45. No, look over here… I’ll give you $48! And a pony!
Two months of this kind of shenanigans ensued and the price climbed higher and higher, reaching levels that most gaming analysts were either privately or publicly referring to as ludicrous. But the bidding continued and two of the apparently less intense competitors fell out early leaving just Pinnacle and Columbia Sussex as the sparring partners.
Well, last week it appears that the end of the war has finally been reached. And the winner is… Columbia Sussex, whose final offer of $54 a share (or roughly $2.75 billion) made Pinnacle Entertainment take their checkbook and walk away.
So what is a Columbia Sussex and what are they going to do with the Tropicana? Well, the Kentucky based company has been involved in the “hospitality” industry for years, operating more than 80 hotels around the country with such familiar names as Marriott, Wyndham, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Hilton, Sheraton, and Westin among others.
In addition, they have eight casinos in the United States. Well, seven really since one of them, the Belle of Orleans riverboat was damaged in Hurricane Katrina and has not been open since. The others include the Belle of Baton Rouge; the Lighthouse Point Casino and Vicksburg Casino in Mississippi; Caesars Tahoe and the Lake Tahoe Horizon Casino in Tahoe/Stateline; the River Palms in Laughlin, Nevada; and the Westin Casuarina casino in Vegas.
On that last one it is important to note that Columbia Sussex only operates the casino at the Westin and has nothing to do with the rest of the property so the Tropicana is their first foray into the Vegas hotel market.
The purchase of Aztar adds the Vegas and Atlantic City Tropicana properties, the Ramada Express in Laughlin, and Casino Aztar branded properties in Evansville, Indiana and Caruthersville, Missouri.
What they intend to do with the Tropicana in Vegas in a harder question to answer. Although the president of the company says they have no intention to close and/or tear down the hotel in the near future, that seems to be the foregone conclusion at some point in the not to distant future. Columbia Sussex officials say they will take their time to examine what the hotel has to offer, what can and can’t be improved, and what can be done with the land or the buildings that sit on them. I’d guess that the hotel has won yet another reprieve from the wrecking ball until 2007 at least.
As far as Pinnacle is concerned, don’t feel too badly for them. As part of the deal they received a big fat “break up” check worth $78 million. Yes, you read that right. They wisely built into the initial offer that if they didn’t wind up with the prize they’d get paid for their time and effort and man did they ever.
And this doesn’t mean that the company has given up on their quest to make a splash in Vegas. Officials with Pinnacle were reportedly seen touring the Sahara and apparently the Riviera may also be on their radar.
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/column/index.htm
LAS VEGAS HILTON SIGNS BROOKS & DUNN TO MULTI-YEAR PERFORMANCES.
The Las Vegas Hilton has signed Brooks & Dunn to multi-year performances, it was announced today by Las Vegas Hilton executives. The superstar duo kicks off their schedule by headlining at the legendary Hilton Theater during National Finals Rodeo December 4-6, 2006.
The formal announcement of the agreement was made today at a news conference at the property featuring Reba McEntire introducing Brooks & Dunn. The Las Vegas Hilton Brooks & Dunn performances are part of “The Long Haul Tour,” presented by Toyota Tundra. Besides this year’s rodeo dates, other performances are scheduled March, July and December 2007.
“The Las Vegas Hilton welcomes this legendary duo to our entertainment family,” said Ken Ciancimino, the resort’s executive vice president. “This agreement with Brooks & Dunn is another example of superstars who have made us their venue of choice, headlining in the renowned Hilton Theater and taking part in entertainment history with a transformed Las Vegas Hilton.”
The Hilton recently completed a multi-million dollar construction and renovation enhancement project that included, in addition to the Hilton Theater, the porte-cochere, front lobby, and main casino, as well as the addition of the Tempo lounge and Fortuna, a coffee and wine experience.
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.”
Brooks & Dunn will perform December 4, 5, 6 at 9 p.m. in the legendary 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)
Jerry’s Famous Coffee Shop Prepares to Opens Where Canal
Street Café Once Stood
Jerry’s Nugget Casino has been branded as
the locals’ best hangout spot for wonderful gaming and friendly
company for more than 42 years. When it comes to restaurants, nothing
beats the warm-spirited atmosphere and superb food specials found at
Jerry’s Nugget. From the quaint, little bakery to Uncle Angelo’s
Pizza Joint, Jerry’s Nugget is known for their array of food and
fabulous desserts.
“Our restaurants have always had the same philosophy of great food,
great prices, and great customer service,” states executive Jeremy
Stamis. “And now, we’ve added another edition to our contented family
of restaurants.”
With more than five years of operation, Canal Street Café closed its
doors on Tuesday, April 23rd for renovation and is set to reopen
those doors as the new and upcoming restaurant, Jerry’s Famous Coffee
Shop. The futuristic-style restaurant will combine the nostalgia of
the past with the contemporary designs of the present. Known as
Googie style, the unique layout was influenced by the 50s space-like
architecture of structured shapes and extraordinary angles. Jerry’s
Famous Coffee Shop will “celebrate the casino’s rich history as the
locals’ coffee house,” said Stamis. “We will have old pictures
representing the founders of the property and the clients who were
with us in the beginning. The pictures also show some of the
traditional meals that we served then and still serve now.”
The diner will accommodate 250 guests. Included in the restaurant’s
updated menu are seven full pages of 140-plus entrée meals, 56
delectable desserts and 68 beverage items. Nine new burgers are added
along with extra menu categories of crepes, breakfast sandwiches and
skillets, and lighter dishes for those who hunger for low-calorie,
low-fat meals. With a variety of food selections to choose from,
everyone is sure to have something to eat all 365 days a year!
The launch of Jerry’s Famous Coffee Shop is scheduled for late May.
Until the wait is over, Uncle Angelo’s Pizza Joint has extended their
hours. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Uncle Angelo’s will
operate 24-hours a day until Jerry’s Famous Coffee Shop opens. Uncle
Angelo’s has also expanded its menu during this interim period to
include various items that are considered Canal Street favorites
including Prime Rib, Mexican entrees, steaks and the ever popular
night owl specials.
Jerry’s Nugget is “Your Kind of Place” for great food, lively
entertainment and winning good times. For more information on Jerry’s
Famous Coffee Shop or Uncle Angelo’s Pizza Joint, please call 399-
3000 or visit www.jerrysnugget.com. Jerry’s Nugget is located at 1821
Las Vegas Boulevard North, North Las Vegas, NV 89030.
Venetian about to give gamblers a hand.
Strip casino to offer mobile gaming devices to customers.
By Howard Stutz from The Las Vegas Review Journal
By year’s end, Venetian customers could be the first in Nevada to gamble somewhere inside the casino using a wireless hand-held device.
An agreement between Las Vegas Sands Corp. and Cantor G&W, the first company licensed by Nevada gaming regulators to distribute mobile gaming devices, is expected to be announced today.
deal calls for Cantor G&W to be the exclusive distributor of mobile gaming equipment to both The Venetian and Palazzo, Las Vegas Sands’ new $1.8 billion Strip resort expected to open next year.
More Here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/May-25-Thu-2006/business/7596479.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Casinos haven’t forgotten the draw a star can have.
Years ago, it wouldn’t have been newsworthy that a big-name musical act planned to play Las Vegas three times in a year.
Even on Monday, news of Brooks & Dunn’s three stints at the Las Vegas Hilton probably wouldn’t have commanded a press conference, had the duo not been in town already for the Academy of Country Music awards. Heck, they already played the Hilton during the National Finals Rodeo from 2000 through 2003.
But the event — coming three days after the Flamingo Las Vegas had its own news conference to announce Toni Braxton — suggests the casinos are remembering star power as a time-tested answer to Cirque du Soleil saturation and the still-iffy tide of Broadway musicals.
More from the Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/May-25-Thu-2006/living/7557195.html
Earl Tuner
I’t’s a big, funky ‘Welcome back!’ for Earl Turner
By Greg Thilmont
Show Tips:
This show contains: A wide range of music and singing, from soul and R&B to country and pop. Earl Turner also dances and interacts with the audience.
This show is for you if: You dig the sounds of Clint Holmes, Sammy Davis Jr., James Brown, Solomon Burke or Earth Wind and Fire.
Kid friendly: No. Audience members must be 21 to attend, though there is no potentially objectionable material.
Nudity factor: None.
Show length: 75 minutes.
Refreshments: Cocktail service is availble in the venue.
Las Vegas is blessed by the return of Earl Turner to the entertainment capital of the world. This multi-talented musician enthralls audiences with his consummate stagecraft and his command of R&B, soul and pop.
Turner, along with his band, was away from the Vegas limelight for awhile. Most recently, Turner and company performed at the namesake Earl Turner Theatre at Harrah’s New Orleans. Tragically, Hurricane Katrina brought that engagement to an end.
Thankfully, however, Earl Turner will always have a home in Las Vegas. And for now, that home is the Sound Trax lounge at Palace Station.
Turner’s shows are jubilant celebrations of music and life. His impressive vocal range and singing skill are superbly matched by his band’s tight musicianship.
Most of Turner’s show focuses on the soulful side of music, such as the rave-up opening songs “Fun Time” and “Get Up, Get Down, Get Funky, Get Loose.”
Turner takes the show on a tropical diversion with an energetic rendition of “Rhythm of the Night.”
Turner’s show also has a soft, tender side&mdashas his melodious take on “When I Need You” proves.
One of the unexpected highlights of Turner’s revue is a country music segment where he hearkens back to his Missouri youth with versions of “For the Good Times” and “Funny How Time Slips Away.”
A unique, crowd-pleasing part of the show comes when he and his band join together in a doo-wop inspired “Loves Me Like a Rock.”
Turner makes a special connection with the ladies as he croons through “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” and “Unchained Melody.”
There’s much more to Turner’s performance. Things build to a peak as he sings and dances to cavalcade of funky classics ranging from “Let’s Get It On” and “I’ll Take You There” to “Soul Power” and “Love Train.” This gets crowds on their feet and their hands in the air.
Earl Turner’s show is a great time, and anyone who loves the pure joy of music&mdashregardless of the genre&mdashwill love the experience.
Source of article:www.vegas.com
“MIRACLE MILE SHOPS” UNVEILED AS NEW NAME FOR THE SHOPS IN DESERT PASSAGE.
It’s a new name and a new look for The Shops in Desert Passage at the Aladdin.
Boulevard Invest, the joint venture of Tri Star Capital and RFR Holding, and owners of The Shops in Desert Passage, revealed the shopping center’s re-branding as the Miracle Mile Shops in conjunction with the previously announced exterior and interior reconstruction throughout the center. The renovation is expected to be completed in 2007.
Miracle Mile Shops, named in part to promote the 1.5 miles of retail space the mall covers, signals the center’s transformation to a sleeker, more urbanized and contemporary space. The $50 million makeover will focus on de-theming the center’s elaborate Moroccan design for a more streamlined, clean and modern atmosphere in a move to create synergy with the $200 million renovation and re-branding of the Aladdin Hotel & Casino into the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino. Furthermore, the “miracle mile” name, synonymous with retail districts throughout the country, connotes a shopping environment and also alludes to the “miracles” that can happen in the adjoining casino.
“With the announcement of the Miracle Mile Shops name, we are eager to move forward with our re-branding efforts,” said Miracle Mile co-owner, David Edelstein of Tri Star Capital. “We are excited to create a more experiential shopping center on the Las Vegas Strip and are confident our new look and feel will resonate with shoppers and retailers.”
The architectural firms Gensler of Nevada and the Friedmutter Group, in conjunction with construction group Flagship Construction Co., are the creative team tasked with transitioning Desert Passage through its current and future image revamping project. Additionally, John Schadler with the Schadler Kramer Group in Las Vegas, leads the creative team responsible for the center’s new name, logo, re-branding efforts and creative materials.
The designers and architects of Gensler have been charged with the task of making over the center’s interior and creating an overall user-friendly environment. Planned enhancements include new, more comfortable flooring, brighter interior lighting, streamlined and modernized storefronts and kiosks and a completely de-themed interior. The mall will become easier to navigate with the addition of an interactive directional system. Gensler is also designing a three-story sculptural facade element, which identifies the entry to the mall.
Plans for the center’s exterior, led by the team at The Friedmutter Group of Las Vegas, include making the mall more contemporary, accessible and user-friendly. Their design includes adding people movers for better access into the mall, a backlit sidewalk water feature and state-of-the-art LED video offering continuous streaming imagery. Additionally, the mall’s entrances and existing retail locations on the facade be made over with floor-to-ceiling glass vestibule doors and storefronts. Finally, the new exterior will include a new patio and terrace to extend out to the sidewalk and invite potential customers inside.
Desert Passage’s exterior renovations are projected to be completed by fourth quarter 2006. Desert Passage’s interior renovations will be completed in phases through second quarter 2007. The mall’s general contractor, Flagship Construction Co., will oversee the entire construction process. The group began construction on the first phase of the Desert Passage project, which focuses on the center’s north façade area, in March 2006, and will complete the project in several phases through 2007.
Additionally, the Miracle Mile name serves to reflect the abundance of new, brand name and internationally recognized retailers that have acquired retail space inside the center. In 2006 and 2007, Miracle Mile Shops will welcome the funky, trendy men’s and women’s clothes, accessories and home décor of Urban Outfitters, the Polynesian-fusion, food and fun at Trader Vic’s restaurant, the chic British menswear of Ben Sherman, the world’s leading outdoor sports lifestyle company, Quiksilver, the trendy women’s fashions of Marciano and the “churrasco”-style Brazilian restaurant, Pampas Churrascaria. Notable names that have signed leasing deals with the Miracle Mile Shops in the past year include United Colors of Benetton and Sisley, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Las Vegas’ largest BEBE Sport store and Modern Watch Co.
Brett’s Vegas Views By Jackie Brett
The successful afternoon production show “Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur” in the Tiffany Theatre at the Tropicana has been extended through Jan. 2, 2007. The show is performed at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily except Friday. Tickets are $29 and $34, call 702-739-2411.
Arthur, who began headlining at the Tropicana in March of 2005, is known for grand illusions including the appearance of a Robinson helicopter and an Amtrak train. He is also recognized for showcasing many exotic cats including orange Bengal tigers, white striped tigers, a pure white snow tiger and black African and spotted leopards.
This is exciting news. With the city’s help, a six-block zone downtown is being developed into an area called Fremont East District, or FED, with lots of bars. The area begins on the east side of Las Vegas Boulevard and runs to Eighth Street, and from north to south it will stretch from Ogden to Carson avenues. The city has changed ordinances to allow bars to be next to each other in the area.
So far two drinking establishments, Take 1 Nightclub and the Beauty Bar, are already open. Two other venues, The Griffin on Fremont Street, and Downtown, a cocktail room around the corner on Las Vegas Boulevard South, are set to open in August or September.
The city has committed to put a 10,000-square-foot nightclub at 601 E. Fremont St.
On the west side of Las Vegas Boulevard, Hennessey’s Tavern and Micki Finnz Fish House and Bar opened recently and above the stores, the owner is planning to put in a jazz club called Brass.
In August, the city’s project to remake the street includes a large neon sign arching over Fremont Street as a huge welcoming sign to the new district. Also, a median will be added to the street, with neon signs and palm trees. Sidewalks are going to be widened and the streets will be cut down to a single lane each way to slow traffic. Valet parking at night will be available at each business.
Arizona Charlie’s Boulder located on the Boulder Strip has completed its $8.3 million expansion. The 7,300 square-foot project includes new gaming space, front desk area, Ultimate Rewards Center, gift shop and porte cochere.
The expanded gaming space features an additional 250 slot and video poker machines along with blackjack and craps tables. The front area of the property was completely made over and the front desk space and Ultimate Rewards Center are significantly larger.
The new gift shop was expanded to hold a larger inventory of items including a line of Arizona Charlie’s apparel. The porte cochere and front entrance have retained the same look as before, but re-designs have maximized the space and made it more convenient for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
It’s well known by now that the Stardust is going to close and be torn down. But, before that happens, a reunion of performers and crews from the hotel’s two famous production shows, “Lido de Paris” and “Enter The Night,” and other French extravaganzas of the era should mark their calendars for Sunday, Sept. 10. The event will be held in the convention center with a dinner, a celebration of the musical numbers, and costumes that weren’t burned as was required by contract when “Lido” close in 1991.
Tickets are $100 if purchased by July 21 and go up to $115 through Aug. 21, and then increase to $125. More information can be found on the Web site, www.castandcrewreunion.com or by calling 702-243-6329.
At Caesars Palace, Celine Dion and Elton John have their stores just feet away from the showroom. Dion’s items cater to kids with her line of baby cloths and you can even get a set of chopsticks for $10 in the shape of the singer’s silhouette. John’s shop has offbeat items such as boas, fuzzy dice, bobble-head likeness dolls and a red player piano for $54,000.
At the Las Vegas Hilton where Barry Manilow has set up shop, his retail store highlights his own wine label for wine-loving fans and his $30 pillowcases are big sellers.
While Toby Keith isn’t headlining on a regular basis in town, the country singer has the I Love This Bar and Grill gift shop at Harrah’s that sells all sorts of items including barbecue sauce.
http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/index.htm
A few weeks ago the media and VIPs were treated to master magician Lance Burton’s ten-year anniversary show and after party. Whenever you see Burton’s show, you’re reminded how talented he is. Having watched him perform a silent nine-minute dove act for nine years in the “Folies Bergere” at the Tropicana and then headlining his own show for five years at the Hacienda, he’s earned all the accolades that are bestowed upon him.
While Las Vegas is not promoted as a family destination, Burton’s show is truly one for the family and especially kids. He always gets children on stage during his show. And at the anniversary show, he got singer Robert Goulet up and used him as a prop, which was very funny.
Burton knew he wanted to be a magician since he was five years old and has always performed in the traditional classical-style donning a tuxedo that becomes his sleek figure. His career took off in a big way when he appeared on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson and was asked back to his whole act.
Burton, now 46, has celebrated his anniversary at the Monte Carlo in an exquisite theater built especially to his specifications by adding a new lighting system, a new opening tracing the history of magic, and some new routines and illusions. In one bit, he turns one of his six female dancers into a “Solid Gold Lady.”
Mentalist Gerry McCambridge has made his debut at the Stardust in the Hypnotic Lounge, which is a converted restaurant so acts have the challenge of working with a couple pillars slicing up the space midway between the audience and the stage. With McCambrige’s unique act, the pillars aren’t bothersome because it’s a casual setting and you’re into what the mentalist is doing.
He doesn’t put anyone in an embarrassing spot like some of the hypnotists do. He starts out with some simple tricks for want of a better word and uses adlib humor at all times to keep his show fun. There’s plenty of audience involvement especially when he has everyone write down some thoughts on cards that he has his assistants collect. That’s when things get really interesting as he randomly calls upon people and tells them their thoughts so it’s best to go to the show with a clean mind.
The show is fun and McCambridge has outstanding credentials. He’s been performing on stage for more than 20 years and recently performed in the ABC studios for Reuters News Service while his entire act was simulcast on the Times Square jumbo-tron. In 2004, he had his own NBC one-hour prime time special titled “The Mentalist” catching an audience of more than 6.5 million viewers nationwide which also later aired internationally. Among the many mental stunts McCambridge performed during the special; he is most remembered for driving blindfolded down Broadway in mid-day traffic
Shows times are Monday and Tuesday at 8 p.m. and Wednesday through Sunday at 5 p.m. Tickets to his Stardust show are $27.95, call 702-360-5419.
“GRACE UNDER FIRE” STAR, BRETT BUTLER,
TO APPEAR AT TROPICANA RESORT & CASINO
The Tropicana Resort & Casino proudly announces a one-night only show by stand-up comic, successful author and talented actress, Brett Butler, on Saturday, August 26, 2006 in the Tiffany Theatre.
Brett Butler is best known for her role as quick-witted Grace Kelly on the hit ABC-TV series “Grace Under Fire,” where she not only served as the show’s star, but also the executive producer. She received a People’s Choice award for her work on the sitcom. She recently made her big return to the small screen as “Joy’s Mom” on the hilarious new NBC sitcom, “My Name Is Earl.”
Brett has toured the United States with her sidesplitting no-holds-barred stand-up performance for more than 20 years. She’s known as the “Southern Lenny Bruce.” Her keen observations, and bold, brash delivery combine to create a distinct and unforgettable comic style.
Besides her stand-up comedy and television work, Brett is also a notable author. Her autobiography, Knee Deep in Paradise, made The New York Times Bestseller list.
Brett Butler performs in the Tiffany Theatre at the Tropicana Resort & Casino on Saturday, August 26, 2006 at 7:30pm for one night only. Tickets are $49, plus tax and surcharge, and are available by calling the Tropicana box office at 702.739.2411. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to attend the show.
Episode #22 of The Living In Las Vegas Podcast is now available.
Title: The Melissa 40th Birthday Extravaganza!
Today is Melissa’s 40th birthday! In this version of the Living in Las Vegas Podcast, we received birthday greetings from around the world! Thanks for calling to: Alma Lee, Cindy, Dave, Roger, Pam, Alex, Phil, Nancy, Dick, Savannah, Lee, Leslie, Liana, Jeff, Jackie, Darcy, Brandon, Michelle, Steve, Kia, Cindy B., Beth, Jan, Mark G, Roman, Tony, John B, Hunter, Joel and Jeff.MP3: http://www.livinginlv.com/podcasts/LivingInLVPodcast22.mp3
Streaming MP3: http://www.livinginlv.com/podcasts/LiLV22.m3u
Visit the Website: www.LivingInLV.com
Thanks for listening! Send your on-air questions to onairq@livinginlv.com. Leave a voice mail and hear yourself “on the air” by calling the Living In Las Vegas Listener Line: 206.202.3223.
Cheers,
– Scott
‘Shag’ adds fun to Krave.
The musical production “Shag With A Twist” brings some swinging music to Krave at the Aladdin.
Set at a 1960s Tupperware party, “Shag With A Twist” was created by visual artist Josh “Shag” Agle and choreographer Cynthia Bradley.
The show serves up music and choreography while bringing to life the campy, hip artwork of Shag, and capturing the carefree spirit of a retro era where big hair, Tupperware parties and pupu platters were at the height of fashion.
The retro-theming extends off the stage with showroom decor, frilly “birdbath” drinks, pupu platter appetizers and kitschy ushers.
Tickets for “Shag With A Twist” are available at the Krave box office, (888) 515-7424 or online at www.shagwithatwist.com. Tickets are $45 and $55 for performances Sundays through Thursdays at midnight.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-14-Fri-2006/weekly/8112285.html
Jubilee!
A many-storied show.
By: Jennifer Henry/Las Vegas Magazine
Jubilee!
Where: Bally’s
When: 7:30 & 10:30 p.m. Sat.-Thurs.
Cost: $65, $77, $82
Info: (702) 492-3960 or (866) 80-SHOWS
In little more than fishnets, feathers and false eyelashes, Las Vegas’ legendary showgirls are what Jubilee! is all about. On the eve of its 25th anniversary, Donn Arden’s original vision is still perfectly intact. A playful mix of Busby Berkeley-style Broadway with just a dash of disco-era dancing, it all seems so innocent but for the barely-there costumes.
The seven-act show takes you from the four-story stage, laden with ladies, to Samson and Delilah’s Philistine palace, to the tragedy-bound Titanic and back.
Act One opens with an introduction to Jubilee!’s “scintillating beauties” in black-and-white splendor. After the deluge of mandarin- and magenta-clad chorus girls cascades through their male counterparts-—trussed up in top hats and tails–the curtain falls, and the Long twins showcase their contortionist talents.
We rejoin the cast in ancient times, and the drama of Samson and Delilah plays out in song with Samson’s triumph highlighted in pyrotechnics. Stoyan and Alexei fly on silk scarves, defying gravity and diverting attentions, until the Titanic is towed in. We find the seafarers are already in full swing, popping champagne and putting on airs for the Astors just before the iceberg’s cue. The unsinkable ship meets its doom, but not before our lonesome lady finds comfort in the arms of a few boiler room boys.
Arden’s finale pays tribute to the entertainers that inspired him: Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Cole Porter, George Gershwin and the Ziegfeld Follies. Thirty-three scenes in all, and there’s never a dull moment. The cast of nearly 100 singers, dancers and chorus line guys and gals strut, sashay and high-kick their way across the stage with just enough time for a wink and a smile between costume changes.
Bob Mackie’s haute couture headdresses are a testament to his designerly decadence with excesses of exotic feathers accented in bold brights and whites, jewel-tone velvets, glittering gems and of course, the girls. Swathed in sparking rhinestones and plush ostrich plumage, the 24 topless performers are always tasteful, taking center stage in each of the main acts.
Show biz know-how and three 100,000-pound load-bearing elevators are Jubilee!’s secret to keeping the classic glamour going without descending into chaos during the hour-and-a-half performance. But for the cast and crew, it’s time and torn tights well spent. The showgirls grace the stage twice daily and aren’t the least bit shy about being Las Vegas legends.
http://www.lvshowbiz.com/feature5.html
Country’s leading lady shines.
By Ricardo Baca/Las Vegas Sun
Reba McEntire
Where: Las Vegas Hilton
When: 8 p.m. Sun., 9 p.m. Wed.-Sat. July 19-23 & 26-30
Cost: $66, $151.80
Info: (702) 492-3960 or (866) 80-SHOWS
It’s hard to imagine Reba McEntire’s childhood: She was a rodeo rider by day, a trade she inherited from her father, pro rider Clark McEntire. And she was a musician by night, a skill she learned from her mother, Jackie. By the time she was 16, Reba and her three siblings had scored a local hit, “The Ballad of John McEntire,” dedicated to their grandpa. And that was, obviously, only the beginning of Reba’s songwriting success.
Reba was discovered in ‘74 when she sang the national anthem for the National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City. Country legend Red Steagall heard her sing it and encouraged her to go to Nashville-—advice that led to her to Music City and a contract with Mercury Records in 1975 when she was 20 years old.
The hits started coming in with 1980’s “(You Lift Me) Up To Heaven,” and they didn’t stop until the late-’90s. Playing sassy and silly to her wildly enthusiastic fans, McEntire is known as the most successful female country artist of the ’80s and ’90s, with nearly 20 No. 1 singles and too many Top 20 songs to count.
Just recently she was voted Country’s All-Time Greatest Female by readers of Country Weekly—a testament to her continued popularity, thanks in part to Reba, her successful sitcom that will come back midseason on the newly formed CW television network.
Vegas Values Report for 7/16/06
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
Many Attractions . . . So Little Time.
Ready for a day full of fun and exciting attractions, but don’t know where to start? Pick up a “Power Pass” for $62.50 for adults and $40 for kids and receive admission to more than 20 attractions including Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art and many, many more – a value worth more than $250! Power Pass can be purchased online at
www.powerpasscard.com. Or, try Circus Circus Adventuredome, an amusement park experience packed full of 23 rides and attractions, including the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster. Guests can purchase an unlimited-ride wristband for only $22.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids – even better, admission is free! If you only have time to fit in one ride, head over to the Manhattan Express Roller Coaster inside New York-New York and get the “Family Fun Flight.” A $70 value, you can get four individual rides and two 5 x 7 souvenir photos for only $49.99. Luxor’s “Pass to Adventure” provides admission to the Tomb and Museum of King Tutankhamen, Pirates 4-D showing in the Atrium Showroom, one of a variety of films in the IMAX® 3-D Theatre and all three IMAX® Ridefilms – for $34.99. Let the fun begin!
http://www.casinotravelnews.com
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Hotel jump lands Thomas in hot seat.
The implosion gods seemed to mock Rick Thomas last year.
After eight years of building a solid afternoon business at the Tropicana, the magician decided to jump ship to the Stardust rather than wait for news about the Tropicana’s uncertain future.
Well, wouldn’t you know? It was the Stardust that got fast-tracked for implosion to make way for Boyd Gaming’s $4 billion Echelon Place.
The Tropicana held tight while its parent company went through a bidding war. The incoming owner plans to keep the casino open for a spell.
More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-16-Sun-2006/living/8443580.html
BEACHER SUES
Jeff Beacher, producer of the quirky “Beacher’s Madhouse,” has filed a cease and desist order against NBC’s hit series “America’s Got Talent.”
Beacher announced the court action Tuesday at a news conference at the Hard Rock Hotel, home of the “Madhouse” since 2003.
In the court document, Beacher claims the Simon Cowell-produced show won’t allow “Madhouse” star Leonid the Magnificent to perform for Beacher, breaching an agreement.
Beacher alleges he agreed to provide the Russian sword-balancing act to the NBC show based on “mutual promises and benefits.”
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jul-19-Wed-2006/news/8570964.html
Posted on July 21st, 2006 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter
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