Everything Las Vegas Issue # 613
February 17th, 2007
SAMMY GETS HIS STAR
By Norm Clarke/Las Vegas Review Journal
The Candy Man got his star on the street he helped make famous: Las Vegas Boulevard.
In an emotional tribute that featured an appearance by his widow, Sammy Davis Jr. was honored by the Las Vegas Walk of Stars during a ceremony at the Riviera's Le Bistro Theatre.
We learned that Davis' star in front of the Riviera soon will be joined by stars for fellow Rat Pack icons Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
Davis impersonator Luis Velez started Thursday's ceremony with "Mr. Bojangles," and Clint Holmes brought the house down at the end with "I Got to Be Me."
Davis' widow, Altovise Davis, told the crowd that she'll be forever grateful to Las Vegas for having the lights on the Strip dimmed on the day of his funeral in 1990.
Davis never headlined at the Riviera, but he often joined Sinatra and Martin on stage there during the Rat Pack years. The Riv was Martin's main headliner home for many years.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM
Las Vegas Walk Of Stars Honors “Sammy Davis Jr.”
From: www.casinotravelnews.com
Sammy Davis Jr., an extraordinary entertainer, will be honored by the Las Vegas Walk of Stars on Thursday, February 15, 2007, at 11:00 am. The site of the ceremony will be in the Le Bistro Room in the Riviera Hotel located at 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South.
Davis was born December 8, 1925, in the Harlem neighborhood of New York to parents that were both dancers in vaudeville. At the age of three, his father took him on tour where he learned to dance and soon joined the act that became the Will Mastin Trio.
Davis suffered a setback in 1954 when he almost lost his life in an automobile accident, which resulted in the loss of his left eye. The accident occurred on a bend on U.S. Highway 66 at a railroad bridge.
While in the service, he joined an entertainment unit and found that the spotlight removed some of the prejudice he endured. “My talent was the weapon, the power, the way for me to fight. It was the one way I might hope to affect a man’s thinking.” After serving in the United States Army and releasing two albums, Davis appeared in his first Broadway show Mr. Wonderful in 1956. He became a charter member of the Rat Pack in 1959, which was led by his old friend, Frank Sinatra and included Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, Peter Lawford and Shirley MacLaine.
Davis married May Britt in 1960 – the couple had one daughter and adopted two sons. They divorced in 1968 and later that year, he started dating Altovise Gore, a dancer in Golden Boy. They were married in 1970 by Reverend Jesse Jackson and remained married until Sammy’s death in 1990.
Davis’ acting career included The Benny Goodman Story, Porgy & Bess and the original Ocean’s Eleven, to name a few. The “ultimate entertainer” had many recording hits such as Candy Man and What Kind of Fool Am I.
Davis was one of the hardest working entertainers in the business. For example, in 1964 he was starring in a Broadway musical at night, shooting his own New York-based afternoon talk show during the day, and when he could get a day off from the theater, he would either be in the studio recording new songs, or else performing live, often at charity benefits as far away as Miami, Chicago and Las Vegas, or doing television variety specials in Los Angeles. Davis seemed to be incapable of standing still.
Sammy Davis died in Beverly Hills, California, on May 16, 1990, of complications from throat cancer at age 64.
Altovise Davis will accept the honor on Sammy’s behalf.
The Las Vegas Walk of Stars was developed in cooperation with Clark County, which anctioned four miles of sidewalk to the East and West of Las Vegas Boulevard South between Sahara and Russell. Similar to the “Palm Springs Walk of Stars,” located along the sidewalks of Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, California, the Las Vegas project honors people of prominence in a variety of fields including entertainment, sports, literary, humanitarian, civic, military, and pioneers. Each star is a three feet square slab of polished granite weighing 180 lbs. and inlaid with the recipient’s name and specialty. For more information, visit American Casino Guide: Extended Offer 30% Discount AMERICAN CASINO GUIDE by Steve Bourie The American Casino Guide has been The 2007 edition includes detailed information 496 pages. Reg $16.95 - less 30% = $11.87 You can order the guide here: http://www.americancasinoguide.com/Store/mr-vegas.shtml You can view all the coupons here:http://www.americancasinoguide.com/Store/Coupons-2007.shtml
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Steve's Las Vegas Quickies
The popular Sunday Night Jam Session that had been at the Hurricane Bar & Grill for so many years has moved to the Slanted Clam on West Sahara Avenue.
The jazz group heading up the session includes saxophonist Tommy Alvarado, drummer Joel Richman, bassist Chris Gordan and percussionist Matt Green.
Las Vegas SUN: LOOKING IN ON: ENTERTAINMENT
Jasmine Trias, who came in third place in the third season of "American Idol," joins the cast of the show group the Society of Seven at the Flamingo on Thursday .
She will be with the show through March 21, Wednesdays through Sundays.
Las Vegas SUN: LOOKING IN ON: ENTERTAINMENT
You know you’re doing something right when other restaurant and tavern owners are dishing out heaping plates of praises. That was the case at JR’s Place last week, when Ellis Island Brewery and Casino and Village Pub chain owners Gary Ellis and Jaimie Holcombe stopped by to hang with JR’s Executive Chef/Owner Susan Rispoli. If you haven’t hit up JR’s for ita 24-hour gourmet Italian menu, what’s taking you so long? They are located at 215 and Durango. Check them out!
theVegaseye.com
Gold Coast Hotel and Casino continues to reinvent itself with the addition of a high-limit room to its casino floor. The Asian-inspired room includes two high-limit blackjack tables, a traditional baccarat table and 23 high-limit slot machines. “We created the high-limit room to offer our customers even more gaming options,” said Mike Growney, general manager of Gold Coast. “It is just one more step in our process to provide our guests with the best possible casino experience.”
theVegaseye.com
A recent report conducted by Dr. Ira Sheskin of the University of Miami concluded that Las Vegas has grown to become the 23rd largest Jewish community in the country – a 21 percen increase in the last decade. Sheskin, however, also noted that the transient nature and the geographical layout of the city has worked against the development of stable Jewish institutions, a factor proven by the minimal 14 percent of the community that belong to a synagogue. The "Le Reve" show at Wynn Las Vegas will be closed from March 5 - April 5. During the month, the Le Reve Theater will be renovated and seating capacity will be reduced from 2,087 to 1,600 with extra perks planned for VIPs. Rumors are continuing that Harrods out of London is planning a mega-project on the Strip. Michael's gourmet restaurant will be closing at the Barbary Coast on Feb. 19 to prepare for a move in April to South Point, Michael Gaughan's new resort on the far south end of Las Vegas Boulevard. If you sign up for The Plaza's Players Club, you will get a 2 for 1 pass to see Shag With A Twist. This is an off-beat show that I really enjoyed. The Flamingo is the first Las Vegas hotel to offer Mini Pai Gow. The game is played with only six cards and the second high hands only consists of one card. There is NO COMMISSION taken in this version of the game. The Palms new Buffet will be called The Bistro Buffet when it reopens. Attendees at Saturday's 10 p.m. performance of "Love" (Mirage) had to flee the showroom when the sprinklers erupted. The downpour occurred about 40 minutes into the show. "It was pandemonium," a witness told me. Or was it "Helter Skelter"? Reunited and it feels so good: Sting and The Police have a June 15 date at the MGM Grand. They announced the tour schedule on Monday, after leading off the Grammy Awards on Sunday. The Sahara announced that it is extending The Amazing Johnathan Show for another year. Amazing Johnathan recently debuted the one-hour special "The Amazing Johnathan - Wrong on Every Level" on Comedy Central. The new material and special surprises he developed for the special have since been incorporated into his nightly act on the Las Vegas Strip. It's a fun show and I can easily see why the resort wants him to stay on. MEMORY LANE Look for an announcement next week that "Baywatch" babe Carmen Electra is teaming up with Dutch illusionist Hans Klok for a major show at the Aladdin/Planet Hollywood. R-J entertainment reporter Mike Weatherford hinted a week ago that Klok had a show going in the resort's 7,000-seat concert hall. Electra announced a similar deal at the Aladdin back in early 2001, but the show never happened.
theVegaseye.com
Beacher's Madhouse is returning to The Hard Rock after the Imperial Palace fiasco.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM
reviewjournal.com — Lenny's Las Vegas
Thirty years ago this week: The marquee performers included Tom Jones at Caesars Palace, Bobbie Gentry and Larry Storch at the Frontier, John Davidson and The 5th Dimension at the Hilton, Burt Bacharach and Anthony Newley along with "Hallelujah Hollywood" at the MGM, Jerry Vale and Rodney Dangerfield, along with "Folies Bergere" at the Tropicana, B.J. Thomas at the Golden Nugget, Joey Bishop and Charo at the Sahara and Sergio Franchi and Fred Travalena at the Desert Inn. Oh yes, and Wholly Smoke was at the Royal Inn.
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM
reviewjournal.com — News - NORM
The landmark Bertolini's at the Forum Shops at Caesars, 3500 Las Vegas Blvd. South, has been renovated and reopened as Trevi. Its menu includes many Bertolini's classics, plus new items such as Tuscan Tuna Salad, Baked Macaroni and Cheese Trevi, and polenta fries. Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Call 735-4663.
reviewjournal.com — Neon - RESTAURANT NEWS
P.F. Chang's will debut The Flavors of Yunnan menu beginning Sunday, the first day of the Chinese New Year, and continue it through September. Dishes on the menu are reflective of the province's cuisine, which includes a Serrano-type ham plus cheeses, mushrooms and chilies. P.F. Chang's has multiple locations in the valley.
reviewjournal.com — Neon - RESTAURANT NEWS
The Sahara Hotel Casino in Las Vegas is giving away seats at the World Series of Poker main event. Anyone over the age of 21 can play to win, with daily qualifying games held at 11 am, 7 pm, and 11 pm. The player with the most chips going into the final table will qualify for a seat at the monthly tournament, when the winner will be determined. There will be one winner each month and the event is ongoing through May.
Las Vegas Advisor - Features & News - Today's News
Another year, another record for Las Vegas visitation. The tally for 2006 was 38.9 million, less than a 1% increase from 2005's 38.6 million, but it was accomplished with nearly 500 fewer rooms available. The decrease in rooms to 132,605 was due to the closing of several hotels, including the Stardust and Lady Luck.
Las Vegas Advisor - Features & News - Today's News
According to an Associated Press story, Gary Loveman, the chief executive Harrah's Entertainment Inc., will receive about $94 million in stock options and other rights, according to documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If the deal is consummated, it will be the world's largest casino buyout.
Las Vegas Advisor - Features & News - Today's News
PHOTO: Stardust Signs Off
The Stardust sign, a calling card for what used to be one of the Strip's largest casinos, loses another letter on Thursday. It opened in 1959 and closed Nov. 1. The Boyd Gaming Corp. resort will be demolished later this year to make room for the $4 billion Echelon Place mixed-use project.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Feb-16-Fri-2007/news/12636976.html
PLAYER'S EDGE : Station Casinos unveils $1.25 Million Point Challenge.
Today is the first day of Station Casinos' $1.25 Million Point Challenge, a three opportunity chance for top point earners at Palace Station, Boulder Station, Texas Station, Sunset Station, Santa Fe Station, Green Valley Ranch, Red Rock Resort, Fiesta Rancho and Fiesta Henderson to win cash and prizes. The top 20 Boarding Pass/Amigo Club point earners today through March 1 will receive a Caribbean cruise for two, and those placing 21-100 receive $2,500 in cash or free slot play. The next 101-200 point earners during that period get $1,000 in cash or free slot play. The second challenge runs from March 2-15 with an almost identical prize structure, except that the top 20 point earners receive a Rolex watch. The top three point earners overall today through March 31 will receive $50,000, $25,000 and $10,000 in cash with the remaining 197 receiving from $1,000 to $5,000 in cash.
More PLAYERS EDGE here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Feb-16-Fri-2007/weekly/12596749.html
SHOW REVIEW: 'Crazy Girls'
Still 'Crazy' After All These Years: 'Girls' gets welcome makeover in time for 20th anniversary.
By Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal
The "Crazy Girls" are high-kicking toward their 20th anniversary at the Riviera. At this point they're looking better than the casino and, except for maybe the juggler, looking to hang in as long as it does.
When the topless cabaret revue opened in late September 1987, Las Vegas had 18 other production shows — compared to about 50 now — and topless dance clubs weren't the upscale, above-board competition they are now.
Producer Norbert Aleman has said it's tough to compete against networked ticketing at corporate casinos for competitors such as "Fantasy." But he got a lucky break when his decision to freshen up "Crazy Girls" late last year coincided with the abrupt closure of two rivals, "Erocktica" and "Bareback."
More here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Jan-26-Fri-2007/weekly/12159963.html
John Katsilometes notes the prehistoric turn of events at the Steve Wyrick Entertainment Complex
Here's the latest from well-financed illusionist Steve Wyrick's theater/nightclub complex at the Desert Passage mall at the Aladdin/Planet Hollywood: The lineup of performers is ready to roll (except for "Defending the Caveman," which announced Wednesday morning it is bolting the theater), Wyrick's show opens Saturday (unless it doesn't) and Ronn Lucas is scheduled to follow Sunday (don't count on it).
Vocalist Martin Nievera is still a listed headliner, with Tuesday listed as his debut.
But the big news from the Wyrick Entertainment Complex is that repeated delays at the $34 million project have producers of "Caveman" seeking a new haunt. The production team is tracking a state-of-the-art, 400- to 700-seat showroom on the Strip (something akin to what was built for Gordie Brown at the Venetian). Meanwhile Lucas, the great ventriloquist, is still on board but doesn't anticipate being ready for his scheduled Sunday opening performance.
Oddly, Lucas was not even aware of the latest rumblings from the theater until I called him in Los Angeles on Wednesday afternoon to ask whether he is still part of the Wyrick vision. Out of town on personal business, Lucas said, "I'm shooting to open on Groundhog Day (Feb. 2). If my puppet comes out and sees his shadow, we have six more weeks to wait for the theater to open." (Wyrick did not return a call before deadline for comment.)
"Caveman," originally scheduled to open Feb. 10, centers on relationships between men and women. The production has played in 30 countries and has been translated into 16 languages. So the show is a proven winner - when it is performed.
As for Wyrick's 33,000-square-foot entertainment project, the box office was scheduled to be open this morning, and tickets for his opening show in the dazzling 500-seat Steve Wyrick Theatre are going for $65.95 and $87.95 (at least, that's the price listed at www.vegas.com ). But there is also talk that the opener will be a VIP invitation-only event. In any case, if the complex passes the occupancy inspection process this week it should be ready for action Saturday. And not a moment too soon.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/do/2007/jan/25/566625351.html
Jeff Haney on the new schedule for World Poker Tour's sixth season, set to begin in May, with many events in Las Vegas.
The World Poker Tour has released its schedule of events for its sixth season, and the lucrative, made-for-TV tournament poker circuit will again have a strong Las Vegas presence.
World Poker's Season 6 begins in May with a tournament at the Aviation Club in Paris, followed by two consecutive events on the Strip: the Mirage Poker Showdown (May 19-23) and the Mandalay Bay Poker Championship (May 29-June 2).
Later in the season, the Bellagio Five Diamond World Poker Classic will take place Dec. 13-18.
The Bellagio will also reprise its role as the host of World Poker's season-ending tournament, the World Poker Tour Championship, April 19-25, 2008.
More Here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/commentary/2007/jan/24/566624018.html
South Strip Walking Tour By Rick Garman
Taking in all that The Strip has to offer is quite daunting. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and even easier to miss stuff that you will want to snap pictures of. So to make things a little easier, I’ve created itineraries for a couple of walking tours that I thought I’d share with you. Versions of these first appeared in my Moon Handbooks Las Vegas, but I’ve updated and expanded them since they were published.
Let’s start this week with a jaunt around the southern end of The Strip.
Starting and ending point: MGM Grand.
Approximate distance: 2-3 miles
Approximate time: 3-4 hours depending on how long you stop to stare
Best time: morning
Start at the MGM Grand lobby near the back of the hotel. This is convenient whether you are driving and enter from the parking garage or taking the monorail, both of which will deposit you near the check in desk. Walk west toward The Strip through the casino to get a full sense of just how big the thing is. You can catch the MGM Grand Lion Habitat just before you exit the building - use the doors on the south side directly adjacent to the habitat.
As you come out you’ll be looking across Tropicana Avenue at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino. Take the pedestrian bridge across the street and at least wander through so you can say you saw this circa 1957 bit of history before they start tearing down major portions of it. Be sure to snap a picture of the signature stained glass ceiling above the main gaming pit, a feature that helped the hotel earn its nickname The Tiffany of The Strip, since it may not survive the transition.
If you’re so inclined, you could follow the signs to the back of the hotel and check out either of the visiting attractions, Bodies or Titanic, both of which have been extended through at least spring of 2007.
Exit through the front doors of the hotel and use the pedestrian bridge heading west across The Strip toward The Excalibur. You can’t miss it - it’s that big Disney-esque castle on the corner. But don’t go inside (don’t worry, I’ll get you back there). Instead, hop on the free monorail shuttle out front.
That will ferry you to Mandalay Bay, a south-seas beauty that may not be as heavily themed as its neighbors but is still pretty to look at. Follow the signs for the arena and convention center and you’ll pass through the restaurant row where you can get a picture of yourself next to the headless Lenin statue outside of the Red Square eatery. Further down that hall (much further) is the Shark Reef aquarium, which is not one of my personal favorites but fans of our fishy friends should probably put it on their “must see” list.
Once you’re done with that, follow the signs toward the House of Blues and you’ll find the Mandalay Place mall right next to it. This small shopping gallery is built on a bridge between Mandalay Bay and your next stop Luxor, but before you get there you should stop and get a sugar boost with some of the sweet temptations at The Chocolate Swan.
The Luxor is where your camera is really going to start to get a workout. Go up to the second floor attractions level for a dizzying shot of the interior of the pyramid and then walk toward the front entrance to get a picture of the giant statues guarding the casino. A quick jaunt outside just past the valet parking will get you a great photo opportunity with the Sphinx and obelisk replicas.
Go back inside Luxor and follow the signs for the Giza Galleria shopping area and you’ll find an indoor walkway adjacent that will lead you to Excalibur. See, I told you I’d get you back here. The walkway deposits you on the second floor entertainment and restaurant level, but a quick escalator ride will bring you down into the casino. Gambling history buffs may want to scour the casino for the Megabucks machine that paid off the single largest jackpot in history, more than $37 million.
Next head toward the front door and you’ll be back on the corner of Tropicana and The Strip.
Take the pedestrian bridge across Tropicana to New York-New York. You’ll enter on the second floor overlooking the Central Park themed casino, which is a great spot for a picture of what is one of the most visually entertaining casinos in town. Head down the escalators and bear to your right to wander through the Greenwich Village homage packed with eateries that may be tempting (Jody Maroni’s sausages are fantastic). Keep going past this and you’ll find your way outside to the Brooklyn Bridge exit.
If you use this exit along the bridge replica you’re heading north toward your next destination Monte Carlo, a white and gold facsimile of French Riviera gaming that you should at least snap a picture of just for so you can say you got all the big ones. Just past the Monte Carlo is where construction is underway on the massive $7 billion CityCenter, a complex of hotels, gaming, entertainment, and shopping that will transform the skyline of The Strip in 2009.
Use the cross-walk by Monte Carlo to make your way across The Strip back to the MGM Grand.
Vegas4Visitors Weekly Column by Rick Garman
Mel Brooks confident of 'Producers' success in Vegas
By Jerry Fink/Las Vegas Sun
Producer/actor/writer/comedian Mel Brooks, in town for the grand opening of his fabulous "The Producers" at Paris Las Vegas last week, spoke about the competition (i.e., Cirque du Soleil) during a press conference touting his musical (which won a record 12 Tonys on Broadway).
"It seems that the problem with Las Vegas is attention and attention span because of the Cirque du Soleil thing," he said. "I'm not saying they're mindless. I didn't say that. I didn't say they're mindless. I didn't say they're a feast to the eye while the mind starves to death. I didn't say that. I never said it.
"But, they are spectacular and they are delicious and they are so easy to digest. You sit back, somebody jumps in the water … there's a clown; there's another clown; somebody walks by and you say, 'Is that guy in the show?' They're all interesting. They're all compelling, but it seems like they're playing down to the lowest possible attention span.
"Some of the book shows have not worked here. We have a particularly stunning book show. We have a 6-foot-6-inch guy (David Hasselhoff) in a dress, which is different from any other show."
He says he's confident "The Producers" will make it here.
"It's a tough town for a book show. Without bragging - or with bragging - we're the only book show that can make it in Las Vegas."
He noted that Hasselhoff is very popular in Germany, where he is a top-selling recording artist.
"The Germans love him," Brooks said. "The Germans will be coming to the Paris. There will be hordes of Germans coming to Paris, just the way they did in World War II. That's what they do. Come to Paris and occupy. They'll be here because they buy a lot of his records."
Las Vegas SUN: LOOKING IN ON: ENTERTAINMENT
Slot Reviews By Gayle Mitchell
Green Acres: Wms. Gaming. 2 spins. 87-90%.
Re-visit the days ‘down on the farm’ with this familiar ’TV slot’ featuring Oliver and Lisa Douglass in Hooterville.
R
Look for 3 or more scattered haystack symbols to go to the Haystack Bonus. Choose one for extra credits.
Arnolds Wild is an event where Arnold the Pig symbols are displayed with numbers imprinted on them to relate the number of symbols determining your award.
Hotcake Bonus displays a scene at breakfast time to include familiar characters, Mr. Haney, Fred Ziffel and Eb, the farm hand. Select one of these characters as Lisa flips the hotcakes to arrive at your bonus amount.
The best news is that for a quarter, you can access all options this game provides including the progressive jackpot. You will be ‘in the green’ playing this fun and exciting slot.
2) Johnny Vegas—Free Games: Atronic. 2-3 spins. 86-94%.
Johnny Vegas, the comic character is now established and upon his return, he brings a second screen bonus event, free spins and wild symbols.
The Johnny Vegas symbol is wild along with a “Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign scatter pay.
When the bonus symbols line up on reels 1, 3 or 5, the 10 free spin round begins.
During this round, Johnny Vegas is wild also thereby increasing not only the bonus round playing time but also credits amounts.
You can see just how popular Johnny is—all together now. “ Go Johnny Go"
3) Hee Haw: Bally. 3 spins. 88-96%.
Your hosts Buck Owens and Roy Clark are here for this slot version based on the popular TV Show Hee Haw.
We begin with counting corn symbols consisting of 1, 2 or 3 ears of corn.
Five ears of corn on a payline begin the progressive resetting at $10. Six ears=$50; Seven ears=$100; Eight ears=$1000 and Nine ears consisting of a triple, two doubles and two singles hits the top jackpot that resets at $2500. with max coin in play. You must bet max. coin.
Free Game spins enter the picture when that symbol is scattered on the first, third and fifth reels.
The top box provides players with a range of risk selection for Free Games and Multipliers from 1X=30 free spins up to 10X=3 free spins.
The Hee Haw characters will cheer you on where the last laugh is Heh, heh, heh, from you.
There is always a welcome mat out to new subscribers.
I encourage you to invite your family and friends to join us.
TO SUBSCRIBE: Send a blank e-mail to: CPon@casinoplayersezine.com
A confirmation message will be sent and require your reply.
From "The Vegas Eye"
Nightlife Rumors We were wondering why this week’s Eye is so nightlife heavy, then we realized there’s good reason; February is Las Vegas Food & Beverage Magazine’s Nightlife Issue, the Nightclub & Bar Convention and Miami’s Winter Music Conference are both right around the corner, and in the more immediate future both the N.B.A. All Star Game and MAGIC Convention are both heavily based around nightlife events. Mix that in with Vegas’ renewed acceptance as the nation’s nightlife capitol and a busy tourist season and it’s no wonder that many nightclubs experienced their busy weeks and weekends of the year! With that all being said, you know that the nightlife brass are hardly sitting on their laurels waiting for the next few weeks to come and go. Instead, some major news is on the verge of being announced that will further influence the way Las Vegas parties. While we can’t give you full confirmation on these rumors just yet, you know our sources are usually dead-on accurate, so stay tuned for the news to drop in coming days and weeks. First up, it would seem as though Steve Wynn has finally made a decision on LURE Ultra Lounge and what the future has in store for that high-traffic, casino floor venue. Keep in mind, the outlet was once controlled by Victor Drai and his twin wunderkinds Jesse and Cy Waits before they choose to focus their efforts on Tryst, a decision that has obviously paid off well. After that, rumors had club queen Candace Carrell taking control of the venue, instead the former MGM Grand nightlife maven is on her way to the Bahamas to oversee PURE Management Group’
Since we’re on the topic of the Waits overwhelming success at Tryst, it brings us to another rumor that’s been burning up our Blackjack (and yes, we love the phone because of the mixed Samsung interface and Windows operating system!). It would seem as though Victor Drai is so happy with the job the twin brothers have been doing at Tryst, that he is opening up the pocketbook and bringing the Waits into Drai’s After Hours on a partnership level. While we hear the paperwork is not yet signed, sealed and delivered, we couldn’t imagine Drai doing anything then moving forward, especially because the Waits have made Tryst one of the most profitable nightclubs on the planet. What does this mean for Drai’s After Hours? Well expect the city’s longest running late night haven to get a revived push and renewed commitment to local industry love, a staple of the Waits brothers success. We’re hearing some changes could be made to the venue, although nothing earth-shattering, just a refined commitment to detail with some small changes that will add elements to the club. Like the possible addition of a hip hop room, in Drai’s, say it ain’t so? Actually, maybe that’s not a bad idea after all; stay tuned for more news to follow … And, as always, remember where you read it first!
Toasts of the Town
In an era where local restaurant award shows often result in more questions than answers, we wanted to bring light to the recent 2006 ‘best of the best’ dining awards announced by Nevada Public Radio’s restaurant reviewer, John Curtas, because they are probably some of the most unbiased selections around. Taking home the biggest award, for Restaurant of the Year, was ‘chef of the century’ Joel Robuchon who won forL’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, the more casual of his two MGM Grand eateries. Receiving Chef of the Year honors was the acclaimed Julian Serrano of Picasso (Bellagio) fame, while Guy Savoy was given the award for Celebrity Chef of the Year for his Restaurant Guy Savoy (Caesars Palace) and Robuchon’s insanely talented dessert master, Kamel Guichida, took home the prize for Pastry Chef of the Year. Wynn Las Vegas was another big winner in Curtas’ eyes taking home the top prize in three categories: Paul Bartolotta for Best Entrée of the Year (Roasted Wild Turbot with Squid Ink Risotto) at his Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, Frederic Robert for Chocolatier of the Year and master sommelier Paolo Barbieri who took home the title for Sommelier of the Year. Other awards included a Hidden Restaurant of the Year title for Henderson’s Settebello, Best Cocktails of the Year for downtown’s Sidebar, Best Desserts in the Desert award for local cult-favorite Lotus of Siam and a Restaurant Design award for Shanghai Lilly (Mandalay Bay) and designer Tony Chi. Lastly, honored with an Excellence in Management and Service award was Spago general manager Oded Talmor.
Fit and Fat Last week, Men’s Fitness Magazine released its ninth annual report on the fattest and fittest cities in America, and we were surprised to find that Las Vegas topped the list as the fattest city in the country. According to the fitness pub, the results of the survey were determined by several factors, including how much junk food is available to them, workout patterns and how much time they sit in traffic, as well as how local government programs come into play. It would seem that because Las Vegas has the highest number of fast food restaurants of any city on the survey not named Cleveland, and a higher-than-average rate of lethargic residents, we deserve the title of “Fattest City in America.” Other cities on the Fattest Top 10 include San Antonio, Texas (No. 2), Miami (No. 3) and Mesa, Ariz. (No. 4). Does anyone else see a ploy to play off the amazing marketability of Las Vegas? Cleveland, for example, was named the “Junk Food Capitol” of the country and holds the title for most fastfood restaurants, yet doesn’t crack the top 10? Equally as interesting, Milwaukee was named the “Most Athletic City” in the country. No offense to anyone, but we’ve been to Wisconsin, and there ain’t much athletic about cheese, bratwursts or beer – even if it is light beer! To be honest, we’d prefer to honor a more legitimate resource, the Center for Disease Control, who notes that Charleston, W.V., is the fattest city in the union. Seemingly proving the point, of the CDC’s list of five fattest cities, only San Antonio was on the Men’s Fitness list. Just something to chew on while you’re working that treadmill. Top Gambling Movies by Bill Burton Hollywood has had a fascination with gamblers and gambling subjects. Over the years there have been many movies made with a gambling theme. Some of these have become classics. Here are a few of my favorites that deal with a variety gambling topics. http://casinogambling.about.com/od/movies/tp/movies.htm
theVegaseye.com
Five Hundy by Midnight: The Original Las Vegas Podcast
# 106
The new name for Barbary Coast is dumb
Oddly disturbing Bill’s Lake Tahoe hot dogs
Lady Luck renovation delay (again)
Hard Rock sale complete
The Producers reviews
Paris sports book changes
We’re addicted to ledgaming.com and videopoker.com demo games
The Lucky Donut finds us entertaining
http://www.fivehundybymidnight.com/fhbm/
Nevada Landing to Close in April
MGMMirage announced today that Nevada Landing, a fake paddleboat casino stranded in the desert between California and Las Vegas on I-15 will close in April 2007 to make way for a condo community with a casino attached. Why anyone would want to live in Jean is beyond comprehension. It should also be noted that MGM Mirage will partner with Greenspun Media (owners of Las Vegas Sun and Vegas.com) on this project.
From the press release:
As an initial step in this new undertaking, MGM MIRAGE will immediately move
toward consolidating assets in Jean, closing the 302-room Nevada Landing property
by April 18, 2007, and focusing its efforts in the market at the nearby Gold Strike.
"This move will expedite our efforts in Jean," added Mr. Lanni. "In addition to making
better utilization of the land, it will allow us to more properly match capacity with
demand and concentrate ongoing improvement efforts in the market on a single
entity, rather than splitting focus between two competing properties."
http://www.vegastripping.com/news/news.php?news_id=1476
Brett's Vegas Views By Jackie Brett
Don "Mr. Warmth" Rickles, who has starred in Las Vegas showrooms longer than any other performer, has signed for a series of exclusive appearances at the Golden Nugget. The much-honored comedian will launch his 48th consecutive year as a Las Vegas headliner when he appears for the first of three 2007 engagements, March 22 - 24. This engagement marks 20 years since Rickles first appeared at the Golden Nugget in March 1987 for a six-year run. His other appearances will be May 25 - 27 and Oct. 5 - 7.
After two successful weekends of shows last October and November, including an unforgettable "Gypsy" performance, Liza Minnelli will return to the Luxor Thursday, March 29 - Saturday, March 31 to again showcase her renowned talent and to celebrate her birthday. Tickets are $95, $70 and $50, call 800-557-7428 or 702-262-4400. The Luxor Theater is a 1,500-seat venue.
Minnelli has won every major entertainment accolade including an Oscar, a Tony, an Emmy and a Grammy, making her part of a select group of performers who have won entertainment's top four awards.
The boys in plaid are, once again, are heaven-sent to perform their final performances of "Forever Plaid-The Heavenly Musical Hit!" in the Gold Coast Showroom through April 1. The show featuring '50s and '60s music, fabulous harmony and ensemble playing, and comedic banter, opened at the resort in January 2005 and has been a constant hit. Tickets are $39.95 and $44.95 for the dinner and show package, call 702-251-3574.
Manilow opened "Music and Passion" at the Las Vegas Hilton on Feb. 23, 2005, and in March 2006, the resort extended his exclusive long-term engagement through 2008. Manilow, will return to headline at the Las Vegas Hilton Feb. 13 - 17 and 21 - 24,
Manilow recently teamed up with world-renowned saxophonist Dave Koz and recorded "Moon River" on Koz's new album. Manilow's Madison Square Garden shows featured Koz collaborating in person with Manilow. Could there be a repeat when Manilow returns to the Hilton?
Having starred in previous productions of the Riviera's "Crazy Girls" show, wild woman Carole Montgomery will return to familiar turf when she appears at the Riviera Comedy Club for seven nights beginning Monday, Feb. 18. Her one-woman, stand-up act is a sexual send-off leaving no stone unturned. She probes every aspect of boy/girl relationships in graphic detail. Montgomery will headline for seven nights, beginning Monday, Feb. 19.
Montgomery has been making people laugh since 1981. She has been featured on the XXX-rated comedy CD, "Extreme Comedy, The Women," and made numerous television appearances including "Politically Incorrect" with Bill Maher, "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and Showtime's "Comedy Club All-Stars 6."
http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/index.htm
Vegas Values Report for 2/11/07
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
Flamingo GO Room : The VegasTripping Review
From: http://www.vegastripping.com/
When you think about the rooms at the Flamingo, the first things that come to mind are: they're small, the bamboo print carpeting is gross, tv in an armoire is tired, the rooms are nothing special. In this context, the long-standing rumors that the ol' dirty bird was gonna get the heave-ho make lots of sense. With most of the historic Vegas properties slowly being picked off and replaced with gleaming luxury resorts it has become a question of when not if the historic Flamingo will be thrown to the scrap heap of history.
Well it appears that Bugsy's joint has been given a reprieve from its date with Controlled Demolitions Inc. in the form of a newly renovated wing of the main tower that Harrah's calls "The Go Room". The Go Rooms come in two flavors: Deluxe and Luxury the only difference between them is the view. Go Room Luxury looks out on the glorious Las Vegas Strip, where the Go Room Deluxe has a view of… everything else. We booked our Go Room through the Flamingo website, three days before our departure - a surprise meeting in Las Vegas with The Grinders, in town for a birthday blowout. Go Room prices fluxuated on the Flamingo website quite widely for three days - during normal business hours rates skyrocketed to $600/night, settled down to $300 in the early evening, then took a nose dive around midnight to around $200/night. Even though these are new rooms, and were in limited supply due to the National Finals Rodeo being in town, there was no way in hell we'd shell out six bills for a room at the Flamingo, no matter what color they painted it. I booked the room at a still over priced $230 just past 1am, when the price seemed to have bottomed out.
The rest of this article plus pictures and video can be found here:
http://www.vegastripping.com/features/feature.php?feature_id=101&page=1
NOTE:This article with all the trimmings is 10 pages long so be sure to scroll down and look for the marked page links.
Trent Carlini starring in
"The Musical History of the King"
Never before has there been a musical show portraying the entire singing career of Elvis Presley-until now!
USA Today says, "You won't believe your eyes and ears."
What if you could see Elvis on stage again! Trent Carlini sings all of your favorite hits made famous by Elvis Presley. Backup singers and a rockin' big band fill the stage with wall to wall sound. You'll think it's a live concert by Elvis himself. This show is called "The Musical History of The King" for a reason: songs from the '50s era when his first big hits were on the radio, then the movies, then from his "comeback years" at the sold out Las Vegas concerts.
Trent Carlini has appeared on Letterman, Leno and Oprah and won the Las Vegas Visitors Choice Award two years in a row. And you can see him live, on stage, tonight in a multi-media concert spectacular!
"The Musical History of the King" captures the excitement of an unforgettable stage presence and the energy of timeless music, both portrayed and delivered by the amazing Trent Carlini as Elvis.
Time Magazine says, "If you've never seen him, now you can!"
"The Musical History of the King" performs at 9 p.m. nightly Monday through Saturday (dark Sunday) in the Sahara Theater. Discounts are available for children aged 5 to 12 years old. To check ticket prices or make reservations click here or call 702-737-2515. Produced by Joey Battig and Big Horn Entertainment.
Gaming takes on a new, but familiar, sexy dimension
By Paul Szydelko/Las Vegas Magazine
The Playboy Club
Where: The Palms
When: Opens at 8 p.m. daily
Cost: Cover charge is $20 Mon.-Thurs.; $40 (which includes access to the Moon nightclub) Fri.-Sun.
Gaming and lounging are uniquely blended at The Playboy Club at the Palms.
Rise to the top of the Fantasy Tower in glass-and mirror-ensconced escalators that have spectacular views of the Vegas skyline. Two gaming areas offer blackjack, roulette and Playboy-branded slot machines. A pair of Philippe Starck-designed Baccarat crystal chandeliers hang over the area.
Design elements, custom-made for this venue, reflect the iconic Playboy spirit, from the bunny buttons on the sofas to the collage wallpaper in the bathrooms featuring every centerfold from the last 25 years.
Dressed in new Roberto Cavalli-designed costumes or sporting a vintage look, Playboy Bunnies play host, serve cocktails and deal cards. Look for profiles and photos of the Bunny dealers at palms.com.
http://www.lvshowbiz.com/
Updated Hotel Review: Santa Fe Station By Rick Garman
Let’s be honest: when this place was known simply as Santa Fe, it was a dump. There, I said it. But several years ago local giants Station Casinos bought the place and have proceeded to remake it from top to bottom in 2005 and then expanding it in late 2006, turning the property into a beautiful, lively, inexpensive alternative to stay and play. The casino and the public areas got the facelift several years ago but it’s aging gracefully. It has a more upscale feeling than Santa Fe of old, mimicking on many levels sister property Green Valley Ranch. Stonework, plants, iron fixtures, and lots of indirect lighting have added an intimate air to a space that used to be a riot of southwest kitsch.
The 2005 expansion added to the allure and enhanced the bargain aspect of staying here, with more casino space, a showroom/nightclub, an arcade, a Kids’ Quest day care center, a 16-screen movie theater, new restaurants, a poker room, and a totally renovated, state-of-the-art 60-lane bowling alley.
In late 2006 came a brand-new (and quite terrific I might add) buffet, a giant, technologically cutting edge sports book, a newer, bigger poker room, and more casino space. 2007 additions will include more new restaurants (including a branch of the famed Salt Lick Barbeque), an upscale new high-limit slot area, a completely revamping of the table games area, and more.
The casino is a large, rambling affair that has ticket-in-ticket-out slot technology and newer machines. I’ve done well at this casino in the past so that makes me predisposed to like it but of course that’s no guarantee you’ll hit the jackpot also. Historically, neighborhood casinos like this one tend to pay out better than those on The Strip and you may use your Station Casinos Boarding Pass, the players club that will reward you with comps and cash at all of the hotels in the corporate family.
There are plenty of gambling choices in that casino from penny machines to “how much per pull?” machines, all the major table games, and of course that gorgeous new sports book that combines both comfort and high-tech gloss in the latest execution of what Station Casinos has learned at all of their other hotels.
Around the edges of the casino are the entertainment and dining options including The Charcoal Room, an upscale steakhouse; a 24-hour café offering some amazing looking pastries; a food court; and others plus lounges, bars, the aforementioned movie theaters, and much more.
You don’t have to schlep through the casino to get to the rooms from the front desk – always a good thing. There are 214 rooms on five floors with simple but comfortable furnishings and just about all of the amenities most travelers need including irons and boards, hair dryers, in-room movies, high speed wired and wireless Internet, and room service. The bathrooms are postage stamp size so it’s not really the place for luxuriating in the tub but at prices this low you can roll around in all the cash you’re saving and get a similar effect.
Friendly service is a hallmark of the Station Casinos chain and it’s no different here at Santa Fe. Everyone we encountered had a smile and a hello, which may sound simple but considering the brusque manner we’ve encountered at other places in town it can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your trip.
All of these upgrades don’t cheap and that is reflected in the room rates, which have gone up to be sure. But staying here is still a crazy bargain compared to The Strip with rates during the week usually in the $49-$89 range and weekends in the $100-$150 neighborhood. Compared to the $200-$300 per night you’ll pay most weekends at most hotels on The Strip, you can understand why Santa Fe offers an attractive alternative.
Of course Santa Fe Station isn’t on The Strip, which is its primary stumbling block for the ordinary Vegas visitor. It’s located about 10 miles north of The Strip in a primarily residential and commercial area. That’s a 15 minute drive via the freeway if there is no traffic and double that if there is (and there usually is) so of course if you are serious about wanting to stay here a rental car is a must.
But even if you’re not staying at Santa Fe Station a visit to check out all of the other things the hotel has to offer may be worthwhile. Get away from The Strip and its high prices and sensory overload to grab a great meal, and do some laid-back gambling. True it’s not a volcano or a white tiger enclave but add it all up: clean, comfortable rooms at a fraction of the cost of Strip competitors; high quality, low-price restaurants; lots of entertainment diversions; a giant casino with all of the latest slots, video poker, and table games, all with lower limits; and incredibly friendly service. If all of those things sound more important to you than a volcano perhaps you should take a look at Santa Fe.
Highs: Rates, facilities, and service are all top notch.
Lows: Location is a bummer.
Location: 1 - Far north side of town puts you away from most action.
Price: 9 – Can be very inexpensive to stay here.
Value: 8 – A lot of entertainment for your dollar.
Rooms: 7 – Small-ish but nice and well-equipped.
Casino: 8 – Terrific with lots of options.
Amenities: 8 – Lots of stuff in you room.
Facilities: 9 – Plenty of things to do here.
Service: 10 – Excellent, efficient, and very friendly.
Fun: 8 – Easy to be entertained here.
Bonus: 8 – I love what they’ve done to the place.
Santa Fe Station
4949 N. Rancho Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89130
866-767-7771
http://www.vegas4visitors.com/column/index.htm
26TH ANNUAL BEST OF LAS VEGAS POLL
Beat the winter doldrums by telling us about your favorite things.
By Patricia Morgan/Las Vegas Review Journal
The holidays are long gone. The Super Bowl is a couple of weeks away. Well, there is the tax season.
Bummer. Isn't there anything fun to do?
As a matter of fact, yes. There's no such thing as the winter doldrums when the annual Best of Las Vegas Poll swings into action.
And we are all about action this year, with 248 categories to consider, an increase of 14 from the previous year. You'll be plenty busy sharpening those pencils or shaking those pens to get the last bit of ink on the ballot.
For those interested in participating in the Review-Journal's Online Best of Las Vegas Poll, go to www.reviewjournal.com/bestoflv/ballot07.html
'Spamalot' betting on shelf life.
Wynn Las Vegas brings another Broadway musical to the Strip.
By Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal
The competition between "The Producers" and "Monty Python's Spamalot" is already getting silly.
"David Hasselhoff gets a prom dress, and I've got to hop out of a can of processed meat. The theater is alive and well!" John O'Hurley proclaimed Monday, after emerging from said giant can of Spam at a media event to promote "Spamalot," the Broadway hit that opens at Wynn Las Vegas on March 8.
More here:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Jan-23-Tue-2007/news/12136144.html
CityCenter one big green machine
$7 billion mega-project to feature environmentally friendly design, construction
By Liz Benston/Las Vegas Sun.
When the first hotel guests stream through the lobby of the 4,000-room resort at CityCenter three years from now, they probably won't notice that the polished wood accents began as wood from old barns across the rural United States or that stonework was partly constructed from an old retaining wall torn down in Britain.
Nor will they dwell on the energy-efficient glass in their hotel rooms, the carpeting made from recycled materials, or that all around them is reused material that came from the casino torn down to make way for the 76-acre, $7 billion city-within-a-city.
The landmark Strip project hopes to receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, signifying that it uses environmentally friendly design and construction.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2007/jan/22/566633186.html
John Katsilometes reports that Arizona Charlie's Decatur plans to bring back the Palace Grand Theatre
By the time Arizona Charlie's Decatur turns 20, it will likely be celebrating the return of the Palace Grand Theatre. One of the city's first true "neighborhood" casinos, AC's on Decatur Boulevard opened in 1988. For years its signature venue was the Grand Theatre, which stage performances by an often eclectic series of performers - John McEnroe (yes, the tennis legend and sometimes guitarist), Dr. Hook, Herman's Hermits, Leon Redbone and the Lovin' Spoonful all graced the somewhat makeshift 800-seat showroom.
But in May 2000 the theater was turned into a 500-seat bingo hall. A sold-out performance by Bobby "Blue" Bland seemed to serve as the old theater's send-off. But last week General Manager Ron Lurie said he is in discussions for the design of the new ballroom and plans to turn the bingo center back into an entertainment and banquet facility. "We're talking to architects and drawing plans. We'd like to start relatively soon," Lurie said. "We'd like a flexible, multipurpose facility. We'd go back to chair seating, cocktail tables, and it would be for 500 to 600 people."
Lurie said the master plan would call for a new 8,000-square-foot bingo room that would be "sophisticated, nonsmoking." And today, the hotel opens an Outback Steakhouse, replacing the Yukon Grill (but good news for those looking to dine on the quick: the Sourdough Cafe remains open).
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/do/2007/jan/22/566634506.html
Posted on February 17th, 2007 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter
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