Everything Las Vegas: Issue 697/ May 1st, 2009
Las Vegas headliner Danny Gans dies.
Wynn remembers Gans as ‘talented and loving friend’
From: The Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas Strip performer Danny Gans died this morning at age 52.
Wynn Resorts spokeswoman Jennifer Dunne says Gans died early today at his Las Vegas-area home.
Dunne calls the death sudden. She says she doesn't know details yet about how or why Gans died.
In a statement this morning, Steve Wynn said the death was unexpected and devastating.
"Elaine and I and all of us in the Company are devastated at the loss of our brilliant, talented and loving friend. One of the most unique human beings and entertainers in the world has been taken from us in an unexpected moment. A profoundly tragic event that leaves us all sad and speechless. The loss of Danny to his wife Julie, his children Amy, Andrew & Emily is at this moment impossible to comprehend. We will all try to go on with our lives without our dear friend. At this moment it seems almost impossible," Wynn said.
More here:
http://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/01/reports-las-vegas-headliner-danny-gans-dies/
Las Vegas entertainer Danny Gans dies at home at age 52
MIKE WEATHERFORD/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Danny Gans, the impressionist who became as big a Las Vegas name as some of the voices in his act, died at his Henderson home early Friday. He was 52.
The cause of death is unknown.
Henderson police spokesman Todd Rasmussen said police received a call about 3:45 a.m. from a woman inside the home at 761 Ricota Court in Henderson. The woman said that a 52-year-old male was having breathing problems. When officers and paramedics arrived they found the man unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are conducting a death investigation at the home as per department procedure, Rasmussen said. The Clark County coroner’s office said this morning that it had not received Gans’ body.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/44137092.html
Please note there are many links at the site of the above two articles for a lot more info on Danny Gans.
Lance Burton mourns passing of fellow entertainer Danny Gans.
The news of Danny Gans’ passing is unbelievably shocking. Las Vegas has lost one of its best ambassadors. He was quite simply one of the greatest entertainers ever to step foot onto the stage. In my 27 years in Las Vegas, I have never seen anyone better.
I first worked with Danny over 20 years ago in Palm Springs. President Gerald Ford was in the audience during the benefit at the Bob Hope Theater. As recently as last year I performed with Danny at a benefit show at the Mirage.
He was a dear friend and I am profoundly sad today. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Julie, his children Amy, Andrew, Emily and his longtime friend and manager Chip Lightman.
- Lance Burton
Death of headliner Danny Gans creates gap at Encore.
By: Steve Green/Las Vegas Sun
The sudden death of Encore headliner Danny Gans today reminded some of the 2003 tiger attack that ended the Siegfried & Roy show at the Mirage.
Once the immediate shock passes and after a period of mourning, Wynn Resorts will have to deal with the uncomfortable task of finding new entertainment for Encore.
Like the attack on Roy Horn at the Mirage, the loss of Gans may have some limited financial impact on Encore.
"It's a horrible thing,'' Union Gaming Group analyst Bill Lerner said of the loss of Gans.
More here:
http://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/01/death-headliner-danny-gans-creates-major-gap-encor/
Danny Gans
http://lasvegassun.com/news/ae/danny-gans/
Steve's Las Vegas Quickies:
Elton John ends his five-year, 241-show run tonight at Caesars Palace. A boatload of bold-faced names are among nearly 200 attending the after-party at Sophie Ideker's Sea Harbour, the high-roller seafood emporium at Caesars. Cher also is leaving Caesars. She had signed to do 200 shows over three years, starting last May, but chose to complete the deal in 18 months. Her last show will be Dec. 20.
After 25 years in "An Evening at La Cage" at the Riviera, Frank Marino is back on the Strip as a special guest star in "Tony n' Tina's Wedding" at Planet Hollywood Resort. Starting May 8, he will be appearing as a famous drag queen friend of the bride's family.
A first? Britney Spears and Paris Hilton in Las Vegas on the same weekend, and nothing scandalous happened (that we know of). Spears, said to be on a short leash, had her after-party at Phil Maloof's rooftop suite at Palms Place early Sunday, with jugglers and contortionists providing the "Circus" theme.
Las Vegas remains at the top of Bravo's list, I hear, for "Housewives of Las Vegas" but it's not a done deal. In addition to the married candidates, they've interviewed a single woman, and, here's the potential bombshell twist, a high-profile gay man with a show business connection. No, not former "La Cage" star Frank Marino.
Comedian John Padon didn't keep his "Sin City Comedy" at the Harmon Theater a month before what he perceives as a better deal came along. He's moving it inside the same Miracle Mile mall, to a new venue inside the V Theater. Theater operator David Saxe has long been developing the empty second-floor space that sits above Cheeseburger Oasis.
The Imperial Palace is hosting a news conference Wednesday, apparently to confirm the Australian vocal group Human Nature as the new resident act. The showroom has been vacant since "Legends in Concert" moved next door to Harrah's Las Vegas. The quartet reinterprets Motown classics with some type of official sanction from Smokey Robinson, which will be more fully explained Wednesday.
We didn’t win the premiere of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, but we did get the only Hugh Jackman wax double anywhere in the world. It will be unveiled privately today at 11 a.m. at Madame Tussauds museum in The Venetian. I’ve been wondering if Hugh might surprise us with a sneak visit, but I’ve been told not to bother holding my breath!
The Wolverine wax figure will go on display to the public at noon complete with the motorcycle used in Wolverine filming. Guests will be able to sit on the bike for the free photo op with the slice- ’em-and-dice-’em mutant!
Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall, Las Vegas' first true "locals" casino is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month., It is the foremost one-stop entertailnment center on the Boulder Strip.
Remember the infamous Kato Kaelin from the O.J. Simpson saga? It seems that our man Kato has a part as a wedding crasher in Tony and Tina's Wedding which is playing at Planet Hollywood. Seems as though he still a major crasher who will will crash in on any type of affair.
Wes Winters will receive the 2009 Tribute Artist of the Year Award from the Entertainment Consumers' Exchange on May 11 at their awards party.
The Luxor has extended Carrot Tops appearance for another two years.
Le Reve, the much revamped show at The Wynn, has undergone yet another "face-lift". Franco Dragone is back doing what he does best and has made some positive changes in the show (and peace with Steve Wynn), so as to appeal to a wider audience.
Gerry "The Mentalist" McCambridge is ending his run at Hooters Hotel Casino on May 14 and opening the next night at a new 300-seat venue inside the V Theatre at Planet Hollywood Resort. Like omens? Opening night will be his 777th performance since arriving in Las Vegas.
Serendipity 3, a spinoff of a longtime New York City favorite, has opened next to the fountains at Caesars Palace. The pink ice cream shop offers a full menu along with the famous sundaes that brought in a celebrity crowd, from Cher and Cameron Diaz to Anderson Cooper and Barbra Streisand. The Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is an icon in the Big Apple. Open Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight.
Luxor has closed its Chinese restaurant, Fusia, effective immediately. "Future plans for the space will be released at a later date," says MGM Mirage.
Few Strip shows have displayed the promotional flair of Bette Midler's The Showgirl Must Go On. The latest case in point is a series of auctions for bragging rights to be what the Divine Miss M would call a "Smug Mutharf&*%er." Each Saturday night in June, two winning bidders will be treated to a pair of front-row seats each, a backstage meet-and-greet, and a photo op with the star. Place your bids at www.Ticketmaster.com/MeetDivineMissM.
High roller Terrance K. Watanabe was indicted yesterday on counts of passing bad checks and felony theft. Watanabe owes an aggregate of $14.7 million in outstanding markers to the Rio and Caesars Palace.
May 1 will be the opening date for nightclub impresario John Huntington's new tattoo parlor at the Palms. Huntington Ink will take the place of Huntington & Hart, the Palms' former tattoo stop. "I am so excited to rejoin forces with George Maloof and the Palms team to take the casino tattoo experience to the next level. No other team could have brought me back to Vegas from Costa Rica," Huntington said. "Expect to be blown away." Or at least poked with lots of needles.
Actress Lindsay Lohan, who attended last week's premiere of the the new Peepshow burlesque show at Planet Hollywood denies rumors that she seeks a starring role in the production when Kelly Monaco departs, but agreed that she'd be interested in a one-off guest appearance. Look out for full reviews of the show in the May Las Vegas Advisor newsletter and our soon-to-be released Topless Vegas guide.
From coast to coast, casinos are becoming considerably less generous with their comps, according to an Associated Press. Some, like the Trump Entertainment casinos, have done it to reduce debt while others can’t justify the cost, given current levels of play. "A lot of people are out of work. They have more time to spend in the casinos," said one managerial consultant, "they just don’t have money to spend in them." Added Boyd Gaming’s Rob Stillwell, "We’re much more cautious with our money. You’ve got to be more strategic in targeting your customers." Comp cutbacks listed in the article ranged from 9% to 30%, compared to last year.
East Fremont Street between Sixth and Las Vegas Boulevard will be the scene of a farmers market every Friday, starting tomorrow from 4-8 p.m. Co-sponsored by the El Cortez Hotel & Casino, the market will play host to 20 or more vendors, hawking their vegetables, fruits, baked goods, pasta, salad dressings, etc. The market is part of the recently created Fremont East Entertainment District, which endeavors to connect the El Cortez and nearby businesses to the Fremont Street Experience.
Pedestrians and drivers passing Luxor would find it hard to miss the fact that the central panel of the Believe wrap has been removed. LVA asked MGM Mirage about the change and was told the vinyl "has outlived its useful life by several months" and the company had been planning to make the shift anyway, having sold the east façade of Luxor to serve as a six-week billboard for a soon-to-be-released movie. (We guessed Transformers 2 even before reading that it's the rumor du jour.) As for Angel, his giant-sized likeness will now grace the property's East Tower. The north, south and west façades of Luxor remain available as potential billboards.
A hoped-for May 8 reopening of Star Trek: The Experience in Neonopolis, in downtown Las Vegas, has been postponed. According to the Las Vegas Sun, CBS/Paramount does not want the exhibit to open in conjunction with the Star Trek film, set for theaters early this month. That seems perverse but we'll keep you posted as the story develops.
DOUG ELFMAN: Las Vegans show 'great talent'
"America's Got Talent" came to Vegas looking for wanna-be-famous people on Wednesday and Thursday.
TV producers got their fill.
A group called Snake Army was a fire-juggling belly-dancing troupe starring a woman with a candle chandelier on her head.
A sideshow guy pounded a nail through his nose, while his partner walked on broken glass — scattered on top of him — then they danced.
When a long-haired man sang, supervising casting producer Roz Taylor-Jordan thought aloud, "That's a boy?"
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/44123302.html
Carlini tries hard with 'Elvolution,' but it comes off as glorified karaoke.
By Mike Weatherford/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
He's a "Lonely Man." He's lonesome tonight. He's down at the end of Lonely Street.He's Trent Carlini and, well, you get the idea.
Carlini is the one Elvis impersonator to sustain a name presence on the Strip. "Trent Carlini's Elvolution," at Steve Wyrick's theater in the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, is the latest sign of resilience for a guy who has seen both the heights of winning a network TV talent show, "The Next Best Thing," and lean times at the former Boardwalk casino.
But Carlini soon will find out if he has generated enough goodwill to support this new venture, which comes off like a glorified karaoke show.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/44123137.html
HEIDI'S PICKS eats of the week.
Heidi's Picks is a weekly selection of restaurant suggestions from Review-Journal critic Heidi Knapp Rinella. Her reviews are done anonymously at Review-Journal expense.
Price symbols are based on the cost of an average entree: $ = entrees less than $10; $$ = entrees between $10 and $20; $$$ = entrees between $20 and $30; and $$$$ = entrees more than $30.
BOULDER DAM BREWING CO.
453 Nevada Way, Boulder City; 243-2739
The beer's the thing here — and so is the only real beer garden in Southern Nevada — but Boulder Dam Brewing Co. offers some pretty solid bar food as well. The bar-staple spinach-and-artichoke dip, for example, was much better than most, and the Brewer's Bratwurst was plump and flavorful. And if the Ploughman's suffered a bit from too-timid cheese and the Bavarian Beer Pretzel was a little too charred, you can't miss with the beer. (10/26/07)
Overall: B $
GOLDEN STEER STEAK HOUSE
308 W. Sahara Ave.; 384-4470
This icon of Old Las Vegas has turned 50 but hasn't faded a bit, with red-leather U-shaped booths and other decor clearly refreshed without losing any of its period charm. We stuck to the classics with a gin martini, shrimp cocktail, tomato salad, cream of corn, Chicken of the Angels, filet mignon and tableside Cherries Jubilee and were pleased with it all. (1/25/08)
Overall: A- $$$$
MARCHE BACCHUS
2620 Regatta Drive; 804-8008
An ownership shift launched Marche Bacchus through some turbulent waters for a little while, but after a chef change and some tinkering, all is well again. We loved the lakeside outdoor terrace and the extensive selection in the retail wine shop – and $10 corkage in the restaurant — but no less than the artisan cheese platter, beef tartare, rack of lamb, pork chop and flourless chocolate cake. (4/17/09)
Overall: A- $$$
TABLE 10
Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 607-6363
Emeril Lagasse works his magic again at Table 10, an affectionate nod to the table in his first New Orleans restaurant where planning for the restaurant was done and the staff gathered after the opening. It's a cruise through the world's best cuisines and one that's well worth it, especially in the case of the marinated goat cheese, Tartare Trio, Pasta Jambalaya and Kurobuta pork loin. (9/19/08)
Overall: A $$$$
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/44123157.html
Chuck Rounds' Las Vegas Entertainment News: May 2009
Every year, May brings out the best in Las Vegas entertainment. In recent months, several shows have opened, and there are still more are on the horizon. The convention calendar is full. The summer season is upon us, and the pool party schedule is active until September. It is a crucial time for productions to get a strong foothold into the entertainment world and establish themselves for the very busy fall season. The summer will generally determine what shows are going to be staying around for a while and which ones will be closing forever. This May is going to be an interesting month for a lot of reasons. May is always an odd transitional month…the weather is changing as frequently as the shows…the only thing that we can really count on is that we know that by the end of the month, things will start getting hot…and the economic situation is a wild card for this entire season. Last month, the Visitor and Convention Bureau reported that tourism was at a "normal" level, but hotels reported losses due to the fact that room rates have been slashed.
Singing sensation Clint Holmes brings his powerful voice and magnetic stage presence to the Suncoast Showroom in "An Evening With Clint Holmes With Musical Director Bill Fayne," May 22, 23 and 24. Holmes' fans know him as more than just a singer. He's famous for making every performance an original and captivating audiences with his charisma and signature style. Known best in Las Vegas for his recent six-year run at Harrah's.
The best-selling comedy-recording artist in history, Jeff Foxworthy, will be bringing his redneck jokes and hilarious observations about human nature to the Orleans Arena for one night only, May 16 at 8 p.m. One of the country's most successful comedians, Foxworthy is a multiple Grammy Award nominee and best-selling author. He delivers nonstop laughs and goes beyond the expected to explore the humor in everyday family and human interactions in a style that has been compared to Mark Twain's.
The biggest entertainment news is the opening of "The Lion King." Previews are starting on May 5th, and the Grand Opening will be in the last part of the month. Mandalay Bay's production will be virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon. Disney's, "The Lion King" continues to reign as one of the most popular shows around the world. The global phenomenon is the winner of more than 70 major awards worldwide including the Tony Award® and NY Drama Critics Award for Best Musical, the Grammy® for Best Musical Show Album and the Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design. The show has been seen by more than 45 million people in 11 countries, including cities such as Sydney, Osaka, Shanghai, Taipei, Toronto, Melbourne, Amsterdam, Mexico City, Johannesburg and Seoul.
San Gennaro Feast is at the Grand Canyon Shopping Center from May 6th to the 10th. The festival is the biggest Italian Feast in town is now even bigger. The Annual San Gennaro Feast is now a festival that is held twice a year and held in honor of the Saint San Gennaro. The festival features a wide variety of ethnic food vendors, live national acts hourly on the main stage, amusement rides and game fun for the whole family. The festival is one of the most popular festivals for locals and visitors from all over the world. Each festival expects to out-do the last…and the food is wonderful.
Helldorado Days are on the horizon. A Las Vegas tradition since 1934, Helldorado Days recaptures the spirit of the Old West. It is a celebration of our community's western heritage for residents and visitors. It is the longest running civic event in the area. For generations, southern Nevadans have joined in Helldorado Days with parades and events that highlight our city's western heritage. The event is hosted by the Las Vegas Elks. The annual Helldorado parade will be on Saturday, May 16th at 7:00 pm, and will feature floats, bands, civic organizations, school groups and our community's elected officials.
May brings out some of the best people to kick off the summer season, and the offerings are huge…
The first week brings out…
2009 United States Bowling Congress Open Championship
Cashman Center Through July 23
Asset Thursdays at Bare
Mirage Summer Pool Parties Through Sept 7, Women $10 – $20; Men $20 – $40
Daylife Sundays
MGM Grand Summer Pool Parties Through – Sept 7, Women $20; Men $40
Ditch Fridays
Palms Summer Pool Parties Through – Sept 7, $20
Rehab
Hard Rock Summer Pool Parties Through- Sept 7, Women $20; Men $40
Relapse Mondays at the Go Pool
Flamingo Summer Pool Parties Through – Sept 7, Women free, Men $10 – $25
David Spade Live
Venetian Apr 30 – May 2
Howie Mandel
MGM Grand Apr 30 – May 6
Black Label Society w/ Dope and Cycle of Pain
Mandalay Bay May 1
Boz Scaggs
Las Vegas Hilton May 1
Four Tops
Orleans May 1 – 3
Johnn Chan Charity Poker Tournament
Red Rock May 1 – 2
Las Vegas Tenors
Suncoast May 1 – 3
Maxxis Mini Moto SX
Orleans May 1
Platinum Entertainment Boxing Event
South Point May 1
Robin Thicke & Jennifer Hudson
Palms May 1
Rusted Root
Hard Rock May 1
Tony Orlando
South Point May 1 – 3
Top Rank Boxing
Hard Rock May 1
Viva! – Tribute to Santana
Cannery Casino May 1 – $5
WBC Title Fight: Adolfo Landeros vs. Alejandro Perez
South Point May 1
Baby Time Expo
South Point May 2 – 3
Cher
Caesars Palace May 2 – 24
Monster Energy Supercross
Sam Boyd Stadium May 2
Pacquaio vs. Hatton
MGM Grand May 2
Stephen Lynch
Mandalay Bay May 2
The Cult
Hard Rock May 2
The Mothership – Retro Dance Party
Mandalay Bay May 2
War
Cannery Casino May 2
Static-X w/ Burn Halo & the Flood
Mandalay Bay May 3
The second week has…
Fonseca
Mandalay Bay May 6
San Gennaro Feast
Grand Canyon Shopping Center May 6 -10
David Spade Live
Venetian Resort May 7 – 9
Tom Jones
MGM Grand May 7 – 20
Chuck Mangione
South Point Casino May 8 – 9
Dave Matthews Band w/ Jason Mraz
MGM Grand May 8 – 9
J. Holiday & Day 26
Mandalay Bay May 8
Jim Curry – John Denver Tribute
Silverton Hotel May 8 – 9
Paul Anka
Orleans Hotel May 8 -10
Ray Romano & Brad Garrett
Mirage May 8 – 9
Shades of Sinatra
Suncoast Hotel May 8 – 10
West Coast Regional Finals Rodeo
South Point May 8 – 9
15th Grapplers Quest Las Vegas
Las Vegas Sports Park May 9
Billy Ray Cyrus
Cannery Casino May 9
David Foster & Friends
Mandalay Bay May 9
Fight Night Live Boxing: Antonio Tarver vs. Chad Dawson
Hard Rock May 9
Jason Mraz
Palms Casino May 9
Los Grandes Del Acordeon
Planet Hollywood May 9
Steel Pulse
Hard Rock May 9
Dancin' Feet – A Romantic Musical Comedy
South Point Casino May 10
The third week includes…
Alonzo Bodden
South Point Casino May 15 – 16
Dennis Miller
Orleans Hotel May 15 – 17
Eek-A-Mouse
Hard Rock May 15
Jay Leno
Mirage May 15 – 16
Joey & Rory
Santa Fe Station May 15
Mac MacAnally
Green Valley Ranch May 15
Michael John – Tribute to Billy Joel
Cannery Casino May 15
Shecky Greene
Suncoast Hotel May 15 – 17
Staind and Shinedown
Sunset Station Hotel May 15
Three Dog Night
Buffalo Bill's Resort May 15
America
Cannery Casino May 16
B.B. King
Mandalay Bay May 16
Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone
Aliante Station May 16
Hot Island Nights
Green Valley Ranch May 16
Jeff Foxworthy
Orleans Hotel May 16
Jimmy Buffett & the Coral Reefer Band
MGM Grand May 16
Johnny Gill
Silverton Hotel May 16
REO Speedwagon, Styx and .38 Special
Thomas & Mack Center May 16
Tiger Jam XII featuring No Doubt w/ Paramore and The Sounds
Mandalay Bay May 16
The fourth week will feature…
Nine Inch Nails & Jane's Addiction
Palms Casino May 18
Ben Folds with guests Rachel Unthank and The Winterset
Mandalay Bay May 19
Joe Cocker
Buffalo Bill's Resort May 20
Air Supply
Orleans Hotel May 21 – 24
David Copperfield
MGM Grand May 21 – July 1
Platinum Masters' Monster Circus
Las Vegas Hilton May 21 – 23
Clint Holmes
Suncoast Hotel May 22 – 24
Crown Boxing
Orleans Hotel May 22
Dane Cook
Palms Casino May 22 – 24
Gerald Albright and Kirk Whalum
Santa Fe Station May 22
James Darren
South Point Casino May 22 – 23
Joe Rogan
Mandalay Bay May 22
Kool & the Gang
Silverton Hotel May 22
Ozomatli
Hard Rock Hotel May 22
Sax for Stax starring Kirk Whalum & Gerald Albright
Boulder Station May 22
Scott Weiland
Aliante Station May 22
The Crystal Method w/ L.A. Riots
Mandalay Bay May 22
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Palms Casino May 23
Cheech and Chong
Palms Casino May 23
DJ Starscream aka Sid Wilson #0 from Slipknot
Mandalay Bay May 23
Flight of the Conchords
Hard Rock May 23
Lewis Black
Mirage May 23 – 24
Smokey Robinson
Buffalo Bill's May 23
Summer Jam 2009 w/ Jesse McCartney, Asher Roth
Henderson Pavilion May 23
Summer of Fun Kickoff Tour
Cannery Casino May 23 – Free
Taylor Swift with special guests Kellie Pickler and Gloriana
Mandalay Bay May 23
UFC98: 'Sugar' Rashad Evans vs. Lyoto 'The Dragon' Machida
MGM Grand May 23
Allman Brothers Band
Red Rock Casino May 24
Baby Bash & Frankie J with Paula Deanda
Mandalay Bay May 24
The last week of May will have…
Bette Midler – The Showgirl Must Go On
Caesars Palace May 27 – June 28
Deadly Seven
Mandalay Bay May 27
Santana
Hard Rock May 27 – June 14
Platinum Masters' Monster Circus
Las Vegas Hilton May 28 – 30
2009 XTRM AMA Supermoto Championship Series
South Point Casino May 29 – 30
Bill Maher
Orleans Hotel May 29 – 31
David Sanborn
South Point Casino May 29 – 31
International Gem & Jewelry Show
Las Vegas Convention Center May 29 – 31
Las Vegas Spring Home Show Extravaganza
Las Vegas Convention Center May 29 – 31
Pennywise and Pepper
Mandalay Bay May 29
Ray Romano & Kevin James
Mirage May 29 – 30
Sugar Ray
Hard Rock Hotel May 29
World Stars of Magic
Suncoast Hotel May 29 – 31
Animal Collective w/ Black Dice
Mandalay Bay May 30
Country Summer Bash
Cannery Casino May 30
Fleetwood Mac Unleashed: Hits Tour 2009
MGM Grand May 30
Loverboy & Night Ranger
Sunset Station May 30
Robin Trower
Boulder Station May 30
The Offspring
Palms Casino May 30
Erykah Badu
Mandalay Bay May 31
For dates and times, be sure to log onto the Las Vegas Online Entertainment Guide: ( www.lvol.com ).
777th show? McCambridge hopes move to Planet Hollywood will be lucky.
By: Jerry Fink/Las Vegas Sun
Mentalist Gerry McCambridge isn’t superstitious but he says when he moves his popular show from Hooters to Planet Hollywood on May 15 his opening night will be his 777th performance since moving to Las Vegas four years ago.
“That must be some sign of luck for my new venture,” he says.
McCambridge has been at Hooters for two years. He closes his show there on May 14 and opens in his new venue the following evening, a 300-seat room in the V Theater inside the Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/01/777th-show-mccambridge-hopes-move-planet-hollywood/
Lenny's Las Vegas BY Len Butcher
Comedy Club Offers Classes
For all you wannabe comedians, Bonkerz Comedy Club inside Palace Station will begin its second session of comedy classes May 7. The six-week class will be held every Thursday inside the club from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. The classes will let each comic focus on his or her own stand-up material and teach techniques to help with timing, delivery and working the crowd. The course’s main instructor, Mick Lazinski, will offer the students insight from his real-life experiences as a comedian. Lazinski has headlined at comedy clubs all over the country and opened for acts such as Joan Rivers, Craig Ferguson and George Carlin. At the end of the course, the students will have the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience and will receive a DVD of their five minutes on stage.
Cost is $250 for the six week course and includes two complimentary tickets to each Thursday show at Bonkerz during the course. To register for the class, call (866) 414-2665 or email info@bonkerzcomedy.com.
Did You Know……
Here’s some trivia for you to impress your friends. Did you know The Adventuredome at Circus Circus has welcomed more than 50 million visitors since opening August 23, 1993? Nevada’s largest indoor theme park, the five-acre venue features 25 rides and attractions including the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster, the Canyon Blaster.
It is more affordable to visit Las Vegas than other tourist destinations, with average daily room rates of $104.89. It’s even lower now since these rates were in effect several month’s ago. In comparison, San Francisco’s average room rate in for 2008 was $192.45.
And as of January of this year, Las Vegas’ hotel room inventory was 140,729, and this number is expected to increase by 9.9% to 155,562 by the end of 2009. In comparison, Orlando has 111,700 hotel rooms and San Francisco a little over 33,300.
Mac King Lends A Hand
Always good to see people do nice things and in this case, it’s comedian-magician Mac King who has put together his own “entertainment stimulus package” offering complimentary admission during May to his Mac King Comedy Magic Show at Harrah’s. The offer is being made to any Las Vegas resident experiencing financial hardship. If this includes you, then just go to Harrah’s box office, show them your Nevada ID and receive complimentary admission for two to his show. Tickets will be issued on a first come, first serve basis and based on availability. The Mac King Comedy Magic Show is performed Tuesday through Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m.
“I believe that laughter is the best medicine and there is no way that family fun should be sacrificed just because of a gloomy economy,” said King. “This is just a small way for me to say ‘Thank you’ to the community that has always been so supportive of me. Of course, I hope the lucky ones that haven’t experienced hardship will still continue to pay to see my show.”
Titanic Exhibit A Winner
A major event in world history took place on April 14th and 15th, 1912 — the sinking of the Titanic — and to commemorate that historic event, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor invited guests to pay tribute to Titanic’s passengers by laying flowers at the Memorial Wall where the names of all 2,200 passengers and crew are displayed.
If you have not as yet visited this exhibition, put it on your must-see list. It first came to Las Vegas several years ago for a short run at the Tropicana, but the response was so great, it remained there before being moved to the Luxor where it enjoys an even increased popularity. And no wonder.
The expanded Exhibition galleries feature more than 20 never-before-seen authentic artifacts including gaming chips, passenger personal papers and decorative sections from Titanic’s famed Grand Staircase and you can experience the ship’s historical journey in chronological order: from the construction yards, to her maiden voyage, first and third class room re-creations, the Promenade Deck, the fated sinking, and modern day recovery efforts.
Tickets are $27 for adults, $20 for children, $25 for seniors and $24 with a Nevada ID. It’s open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with the last tickets being sold at 9 p.m. Call 702-262-4400 for more information or visit www.Luxor.com.
http://www.lennyslasvegas.com
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME TO 1969 AS FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE PRESENTS ³SUMMER OF ¹69: VEGAS OR BUST²
Fremont Street Experience takes Las Vegas back 40 years this summer with the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” festival and concert series beginning Memorial Day weekend.
The celebration offers tourists and residents a summer full of free concerts by major iconic bands from 1969, including The Guess Who, Blood Sweat & Tears, Rare Earth, Janis Joplin’s Original Band Big Brother & The Holding Company, The Grass Roots, Jefferson Starship, The 5th Dimension, Canned Heat and Three Dog Night.
Fremont Street Experience will transform itself for the 40th anniversary of 1969 by taking visitors back to the legendary year. The “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” event series kicks off Memorial Day weekend and continues 108 days through Labor Day weekend. All summer long, themed nightly entertainment will also include cover bands and tribute artists, theatrical performances with costumed entertainers, new Viva Vision shows paying tribute to the year 1969 and special guest appearances. All concerts and entertainment are free to the public.
“We invite everyone to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic and influential year 1969,” said Fremont Street Experience President Jeff Victor. “Fremont Street Experience is presenting an impressive line-up of major music artists from 1969 to the public at no cost. It will be a groovy summer of music, entertainment and lots of fun. With downtown Las Vegas consistently offering great deals on rooms, dining and entertainment, there is no better vacation spot to have a great time at a great value.”
“Memorial Day Weekend: Celebrate & Remember” brings a military tribute to Fremont Street Experience and kicks off the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” event series. The event begins Saturday, May 23 and goes through Monday, May 25 and will honor past and current members of the military who have served the United States. Special guest performers include The Guess Who on Saturday, May 23 and Blood, Sweat & Tears on Sunday, May 24.
“Vegas Groovy Cruise” drives into Fremont Street Experience Friday, June 5 until Sunday, June 7 and features classic cars plus muscle cars from 1969 on display. Rare Earth and Bill Haley’s Comets will both perform concerts on Saturday, June 6.
“American Pie 4th of July” commemorates Independence Day weekend from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5 and highlights Fremont Street Experience’s Viva Vision show, “Don McLean’s American Pie.” Headline concerts will feature Janis Joplin’s Original Band Big Brother & The Holding Company on Friday, July 3 and The Grass Roots on Saturday, July 4. The evening of the 4th of July will also showcase a brilliant virtual fireworks show on the Viva Vision canopy.
“One Giant Leap: 40th Anniversary of Moon Landing” will mark the historic event of mankind, commemorating the launch of Apollo 11 on Thursday, July 16, the landing on the moon on Monday, July 20, then splashdown back on Earth. Special “moon landing” concerts will feature Jefferson Starship on Saturday, July 18 and The 5th Dimension on Saturday, July 25.
“Woodstock TributePalooza: 40th Anniversary of Woodstock” will relive that historic music festival from August 1969. Fremont Street Experience will bring the best tribute artists from around the country to Las Vegas to pay homage to Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Joe Cocker, The Grateful Dead and others from Friday, August 14 through Sunday, August 16. They will take the crowd back to the heyday of true feel-good music.
“Labor Day Weekend: End of Summer, What a Bummer Bash” will close the summer concert series the weekend of Friday, September 4 through Monday, September 7. Highlighting the weekend will be concerts by Canned Heat on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Three Dog Night on Sunday, Sept. 6.
All 10 Fremont Street Experience properties (Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel, The California, Fitz Casino and Hotel, Four Queens Hotel & Casino, Fremont Hotel & Casino, Golden Gate Hotel & Casino, Golden Nugget, Main Street Station Casino, Brewery & Hotel, Plaza Hotel & Casino and Vegas Club Hotel & Casino) will take part in the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” with specially themed promotions and outdoor food and drink specials. Retail shops and kiosks will also feature custom “Summer of ‘69” merchandise.
All events are free and open to the public. For complete information, go to www.vegasexperience.com/summerof69
DOUG ELFMAN: Snoop digs figure at wax museum.
Snoop Dogg was immortalized as a wax figure at Madam Tussauds on Monday. Why Snoop? He was the most-requested celebrity waxee, so says The Venetian museum.
Monday was also April 20, or "4/20," the day pot smokers consider the biggest pot-smoking holiday of the year — just as 4:20 p.m. is a daily get-high moment for many. I asked Snoop if he would be honoring 4/20.
"You better know that," he said and laughed.
More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43330327.html
MCCARRAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: Arrest raises security issues.
Authorities investigate luggage incident.
By ADRIENNE PACKER and ANTONIO PLANAS/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
The Transportation Security Administration is retracing the steps of a passenger who departed McCarran International Airport on Saturday with luggage that included explosives, weapons and ammunition.
Justin W. Reed, a 22-year-old Marine corporal, was arrested after his baggage was scanned a second time during a layover at Boston-Logan International Airport on Sunday morning. Reed was arrested on charges of possessing a concealed weapon and possessing an infernal machine. He is being held on $50,000 bail.
Reed declared his firearm with the airline before boarding the flight, said Salt Lake City-based TSA spokesman Dwayne Baird. But Reed's checked luggage contained materials that are illegal to carry onto an airplane.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43330317.html
NORM: Now you see it, now you don't.
Word that Criss Angel's promotional wrap was being removed from the face of the Luxor set off a media scramble Tuesday.
Was it lights out for the controversy-courting magician?
No, just a routine cleaning of the pyramid resort where Angel's collaboration with Cirque du Soleil has been running since last fall.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43411487.html
NORM: Elton John wraps at Caesars Palace.
Elton John closed out his five-year, 241-show engagement at Caesars Palace on Wednesday with "Your Song" and hints that he might be returning to Las Vegas.
It was a night of long ovations for the Rocket Man, who started his run on Feb. 13, 2004, and kept adding dates.
In the audience for his finale was Elizabeth Hurley, her husband, Arun Nayar, American artist Julian Schnabel, jazz musician Dave Koz, and Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne.
John wore a red shirt under a long black jacket that had "Pirates" embossed on the back and a skull and crossbones patch high on his right sleeve, with the word "captain" underneath.
After opening with "Benny and the Jets" he joked about Celine Dion's skinny frame and mused about who would fill the shoes of Celine and himself.
"Bette Midler, Cher … The Village People?" he said.
The rest of his playlist, in order: "Philadelphia Freedom," "Believe," "Daniel," "Rocket Man," "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues," "Someone Saved My Life Tonight," "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road," "Tiny Dancer," "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," "Candle in the Wind," "Pinball Wizard," "The Bitch is Back," "I'm Still Standing" and "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting."
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43528547.html
PHOTO: 'RED PIANO' SHOWCASE: Elton John strikes the final notes.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43540527.html
NORM: Friends celebrate at 'Piano' party.
Toughest ticket in town? Had to be the 170 invitations to Elton John's after-party on Wednesday at Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant at Caesars Palace.
The Rocket Man got half of them, Caesars got 30 to 35 and the restaurant's co-owners, Sophie Ideker and Susie Phelps, got the other 30 to 35.
Sir Elton's friends included his partner David Furnish; Houston socialite Lynn Wyatt, a major contributor to the Elton John AIDS Foundation; British model (and face of Estee Lauder) Elizabeth Hurley and her husband, Indian textile heir Arun Nayar; supermodel Cheryl Tiegs, a three-time cover girl for Sports Illustrated's swimsuit edition during the 1970s and 1980s; rocker Ozzy Osbourne and his wife, Sharon; Frank Presland, John's manager; Keith Bradley, John's European tour director; Howard Rose, John's agent for almost 40 years; jazz saxophonist Dave Koz; and acclaimed American painter and filmmaker Julian Schnabel, best known for his films "Basquiat," "Before Night Falls" and "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly."
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43610202.html
560 rooms at Tropicana closed; building code concerns cited.
By BENJAMIN SPILLMAN/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Officials at the Tropicana have closed 560 rooms that are believed to have renovations that don't comply with building codes.
On Thursday, hotel managers made the decision to close the rooms in the Paradise Tower to deal with a discovery that plumbing renovations to the rooms are out of compliance, general manager Ron Thacker said.
"We intend to work diligently and in cooperation with local authorities to bring the rooms into compliance as soon as possible," he said.
All other rooms, casino, pool and convention facilities remain open.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/breaking_news/43596012.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Singers blend 'Voices' at Hilton
Some partnerships are arranged at birth, like Flamingo headliners Donny and Marie Osmond.
Others are made by hiring proven Las Vegas talents to co-star in the same show, and telling them, "Figure it out."
Such was the case with the new Las Vegas Hilton show "Voices," a title explaining the link between powerhouse singers Earl Turner and Lani Misalucha.
The two were set to open Wednesday night in the Shimmer Cabaret, sharing the stage (and bandstand set) with the topless revue "Sin City Bad Girls" that debuts Friday.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43528487.html
THE BUZZ. BY Doug Elfman/Las Vegas Review Journal
The Hard Rock is back. For some years, it lost cachet to the Palms, Wynn and elsewhere. Now the buzz that radiated the hotel a few years ago is back or closer to it.
Look at last weekend. First, The Killers opened the new Joint, a big sweet spot of a concert venue. (Some serious surprise concerts might go there this summer.)
On Sunday, Snoop Dogg showed up for the dayclub pool promotion, "Rehab," where people stood in line for hours to find out whether they were pretty enough to get in, then dropped big dollars for drinks, all to be part of the see-and-flirt of bikinis and shorts.
At 6 p.m. Sunday, I saw a girl in a bikini getting wheelchaired out of Rehab. Drunk. Then I got passed by a girl in a bikini who was crying her eyes out. Did she spot her boyfriend making out with someone else?
This might all sound too much for you. (And for me, I'll admit it.) But this means … buzz.
Later Sunday, Paul McCartney brought in not just the oldsters but a lot of younger music fans. He's 66, yes? Whatever. His was my favorite concert in a year.
So — between the pool and concerts, and the casino stripper-pole dancers (they look hotter than they dance), and the boob-spilling dealers, and the still-a-secret steak-and-shrimp special at Mr. Lucky's — it looks like the Hard Rock's $750 million renovations and concepts are paying off.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43610212.html
HEIDI'S PICKS by Heidi Knapp Rinella.
From: The Las Vegas Review Journal
CANAL STREET
The Orleans, 4500 W. Tropicana Ave.; 365-7111
Prices at steakhouses across the valley have gone sky-high in recent years, and in most cases, they're not worth it. So we were particularly pleased to find good value at the elegant Canal Street, where we enjoyed a salad of mozzarella and peppers, oysters Rockefeller, a filet mignon, Parmesan-crusted veal cutlet Tuscan and a chocolate lava cake. Excellent (but not snobby) service put the icing on the cake. (6/29/07)
Overall: B+ $$$
ISLA
Treasure Island, 3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 894-7111
Overly strong and overly spicy seafood enchiladas put a damper on our dinner at Isla, which was otherwise notable for very good sweet roasted corn soup, queso fundido, roast pork Pipian, flan atop a corn cake — even the requisite chips and salsa. For good service and an atmosphere that's colorful but not kitschy, we'd happily return to the island. Just not to the fish. (6/15/07)
Overall: B $$
SWITCH
Encore, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 248-3463
The unique interiors of this restaurant — yes, interiors in the plural, because the walls and ceilings periodically switch among three permutations, which is very cool — are spectacular, but don't overshadow superlative food and flawless service. We happily recommend the risotto with champagne and Parmesan, oysters on the half shell (three from the West, three from the East), seared Arctic char, organic free-range chicken, gratin Dauphinois, creamed spinach and chocolate crunch bar. (4/10/09)
Overall: A $$$$
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43610037.html
Upcoming Las Vegas Entertainment.
Classic rockers Aerosmith team up with ZZ Top at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 25. Tickets are $55, $95 and $185.48 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at Ticketmaster outlets.
Rootsy Chicago rockers Wilco hit The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel on June 19. Tickets start at $35 and go on sale at noon Saturday at The Joint box office, 4455 Paradise, and Ticketmaster outlets.
Radio-friendly popsters Third Eye Blind dip into the pool at the Hard Rock on June 12. Tickets are $29.55 and go on sale at noon Saturday at the venue box office.
Country legend Loretta Lynn visits Texas Station on June 20. Tickets are $29 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Texas Station Boarding Pass Rewards Center, 2101 Texas Star Lane, North Las Vegas.
Rising young pop singer Demi Lovato performs at the Orleans Arena on July 18, with David Archuleta. Tickets are $39.50 and $49.50 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Orleans Arena box office, 4500 W. Tropicana Ave.
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43610057.html
PLAYER'S EDGE: Here are a few definitions for some of our commonly used terms.
As this week is especially slow for casino promotion news (we've already told you about all the April promotions, and it is too early to write about May), we will explain the various terms that appear in this column every week.
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43610062.html
SOUNDS: She's Baaacckk …
Britney Spears has had a rough road in Vegas, but there are still reasons to love her.
By JASON BRACELIN/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Like Pabst and quiche, vomit and velour, Britney Spears and Las Vegas haven't always mixed so well.
To say that Britney has traveled a bumpy road in Sin City is to ignore potholes big enough for wild game to bathe in.
She's passed out in nightclubs, gotten universally skewered for a roly-poly performance at the MTV Video Music Awards at the Palms, seen her posse tussle with the paparazzi and yawned her way through a House of Blues concert where she pretty much used her fans' ticket stubs as toilet paper.
But you know what, Las Vegas?
Britney Spears is still good for you.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43610067.html
SHOW REVIEW: 'Peepshow'
Broadway puts its mark on Vegas' new high-class girlie show.
By MIKE WEATHERFORD/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Look a little higher guys. Higher. Above the shoulders. There you go. See?
She's singing.
In fact, Katie Webber was on "American Idol" (Season 3) and on Broadway in "Wicked." In "Peepshow" she rolls around with a giant white teddy bear, which amusingly transforms into a bearskin rug as peekaboo accessory.
The dance number is familiar to the Las Vegas stage. The fact that it's sung live by a performer with some recognition — and no special billing — is almost unheard of. Especially if you mistakenly lump "Peepshow" in with lower-budget topless revues, where it's standard practice for dancers to lip-sync as they bump and grind.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/43610092.html
JOHN L. SMITH: 'Folies' let dancers lead normal lives while experiencing glamorous dream.
With resounding applause erupting in the evening air, the fabulous "Folies Bergere" went dark last month at the Tropicana after a 49-year run.
Nostalgic reminiscences were plentiful and heartfelt, but as Terri Buffet thumbed the pages of her photo album it became clear the "Folies" meant much more than that. For professional dancers, the "Folies" and shows like it provided an opportunity to work in one place, to earn a good living, raise a family, and enjoy things others take for granted.
For a generation of dancers and musicians, that was the saving grace and secret blessing of Las Vegas. There are job openings for doctors, lawyers, and Indian chiefs, but just try landing steady work as a dancer who doesn't use a pole.
More from The Las Vegas Review Journal here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43733872.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Still hope for those who want to 'Believe'
It just had to be a false alarm when the Criss Angel building wrap started coming off the Luxor last week. Turns out the "Believe" sign is just being moved.
Ticket-buyers who consider themselves burned believe Cirque du Soleil's much-mocked magic show should close, sooner than later if they have any say.
But c'mon, folks. It hasn't even been open a year! Saying that isn't as much of a joke as it probably should be.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/living/43733662.html
M Resort Raises Buffet Prices…ALREADY
Here is an email that one of my members sent me concerning buffet prices at M Resort:
Thought you might like to know that M Resort & Casino raised their buffet prices effective 4/24/09. The employees just found out about it yesterday.
Thursday 4/23/09:
Breakfast Buffet Monday thru Friday was $8.95 and $6.95 with M Players Card
Lunch Buffet Monday thru Friday was $10.95 and $8.95 with M Players Card
Dinner Buffet Monday thru Thursday was $18.95 and $16,95 with M Players Card.
On Friday, April 24, 2009
Breakfast Buffet $10.95 and $8.95 with M Players Card a $2 Increase
Lunch Buffet $14.95 and $12.95 with M Players Card a $4 Increase
Dinner Buffet $22.95 and $20.95 with M Players Card. a $4 Increase.
I was told by the buffet supervisor a lady named Catherine that the increase was due to the great quality of the food being served.
What has my wife and I upset is all the promises that the Marnell family has expressed in the Review Journal about keeping prices low so that the locals would be able to afford to come and play and eat there at a reasonable price. Now less than 60 days after opening they have raises prices considerably.
We enjoy your column and thought you might want to know about this situation.
Sincerely Yours
Paul
PHOTOS, VIDEO: Sculpture and contents described as "Vegas' largest martini"
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43962622.html
THE CATFIGHT OF CATFIGHTS by Norm Clarke/LVRJ.
World Series of Poker commissioner Jeffrey Pollack wants an apology from Joan and Melissa Rivers.
Pollack is upset over comments the mother-daughter duo made during Sunday's superheated episode of Donald Trump's "Celebrity Apprentice."
In what will be remembered as one of reality TV's legendary catfights, the Riverses raged at Las Vegas poker star Annie Duke and Playboy Playmate Brande Roderick after Trump fired Melissa.
Before storming out of the Trump Tower, Melissa called Duke and Roderick a "cabal" of "whore pit vipers."
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/news/43962677.html
CASINOS IN CRISIS: Wynn may buy back Bellagio.
No deal in works, but developer 'kicking tires' on Strip.
By HOWARD STUTZ/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Nine years after selling Mirage Resorts to MGM Grand Corp., Steve Wynn may be looking to buy back some of the Strip properties he originally designed and built.
Wynn, now chairman of the company that owns Wynn Las Vegas and Encore, told Bloomberg News on Tuesday he would be interested in acquiring casinos owned by debt-strapped MGM Mirage if the Strip casino giant is forced to sell some of its assets to pay down debt.
"I'd be interested, if at the right price, whether it's Bellagio or Circus Circus," Wynn told the news service after speaking at the Milken Institute's Global Conference in Beverly Hills, Calif.
However, he also emphasized that a transaction was not imminent.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/business/43962552.html
Cinco de Mayo festivities to be music to your ears.
By COREY LEVITAN/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Looking for somewhere to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Chances are, you're not from Mexico.
The fifth of May — frequently misconstrued as south of the border's Fourth of July — marks the 1862 victory against France at the Battle of Puebla. But it's not Mexico's Independence Day. (That's Sept. 16.) It's not even a Mexican national holiday.
Then again, we live in Las Vegas, and when has history ever mattered here? Especially if we can party instead. So expect to find plenty of mariachi music and flavorful spicy fare between Friday and Tuesday. Here's a list of activities we found.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/44041202.html
Jump Into Pool Party Season.
Casinos compete for beauty and bucks.
By SONYA PADGETT/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Say you're a guy with $50 burning a hole in your pocket and you're faced with the decision of, if not a lifetime, at least a weekend: topless pool party or topless club?
There are so many reasons to choose that pool party, says Michael Kleen, general manager of the Sapphire Pool at the Rio.
First, you need to know that the pool party is operated by the people who own Sapphire Gentlemen's Club. The strip club teamed up with the Rio to host a topless pool party last summer and is celebrating this year's grand opening Saturday.
Former NBA star Robert Horry will host the party, with Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian scheduled to make an appearance. Lots of exotic dancers will be there, tanning and tantalizing guests with their toplessness.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/44041232.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: Discount ticket booths at war.
The war is on. A new discount ticket outlet has opened a few storefronts away from the signature outlet of the company that dominates the market.
Vegas Tix 4 Less has new locations in the Showcase mall — known for its pop-art Coca-Cola bottle — and inside O'Shea's casino.
It's not the only competition for Tix 4 Tonight, which sells discounted show tickets under the Coke bottle and in five other locations. In fact, the new Showcase kiosk of Tix 4 Less is the same camera-store location once held by a vanquished competitor.
But this is the one producers have been talking about. Vegas Tix 4 Less is a division of Vegas.com, the Greenspun Corp. operation that in recent years consolidated much of the market for full-priced ticket sales.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/44041252.html
A healthy dose of new Vegas, and it looks nothing like The King.
By: John Katsilometes/Las Vegas Sun
Old Vegas collided with New Vegas last night, and an Elvis tribute act on the Strip was dwarfed by a guy who doesn’t sing, doesn’t play an instrument and is so unassuming that away from the stage you might mistake him for a member of his own entourage.
Elvis impressionist Trent Carlini held his VIP gala opening last night at the Steve Wyrick Theatre at the Miracle Mile Shops in Planet Hollywood. His show is slyly titled “Elvolution,” to reinforce Carlini’s claim that the production is a bolstered version of the Elvis act he cut loose on the public nearly 20 years ago, most recently as “The Dream King” at the Sahara. Carlini’s show is good for Elvis fans who want a healthy dose of nostalgia. He enthusiastically sings the Elvis classics, re-creates a segment of the legendary 1968 comeback special, wears a snugly fitting white jumpsuit and deals black scarves to women invited to the lip of the stage. He ably performs the famous Elvis karate kicks, chops and spins, taking long pauses to straighten his costume and catch his breath. The 2007 champion of ABC’s “Next Big Thing” talent contest, Carlini sings in a husky, Elvis-esque voice and looks so much like The King that suspicious minds wonder how a guy was blessed with such idyllic features.
Star-crossed Turner gives Vegas one more shot at the Hilton’s Shimmer Cabaret.
By: John Katsilometes/Las Vegas Sun
For years Earl Turner has been one of my favorite Vegas performers, except that he has this finicky practice of not performing in Vegas. But Turner is back, in the new show “Voices,” with former Society of Seven vocalist Lani Misalucha, at the Las Vegas Hilton’s Shimmer Cabaret. The show opened Wednesday and is staged nightly (dark Sundays) at 7 p.m.
I’m glad to see the gifted but often star-crossed Turner back onstage in Vegas. I’ve not seen a performer work harder than Turner, who is often soaked in sweat after two numbers and, to borrow a tennis term, leaves nothing on the court. That’s no backhanded compliment. He’s an ace. He works to the hotel’s advantage. He plays a great set and is happy to serve, and I’m now finished with the tennis references.
Brainstorming who’s in and out as Elton John departs The Colosseum.
By: John Katsilometes/Las Vegas Sun
Before the giant, phallic apples-and-banana stage prop was deflated for the 241st and final time, Elton John plugged The Village People.
“Who’s going to fill my shoes?” Sir Elton asked. “You’ve got Bette Midler and Cher. Next, it’ll be The Village People.” Is this such a bad idea? The Colosseum is losing Elton John, whose “Red Piano” performances played for 4½ years and was a commercial and creative success in a 4,000-seat venue whose ticket prices (topping out at $225 apiece) were among the highest on the Strip. It’s a limited field of candidates that could replace him, no question. Anyone’s list should include Elton himself, as he not so subtly claimed near the end of the show. “I’ll see you with Billy Joel, and by myself, and one day I might even see you back in Vegas.”
But until then, how do you fill those 4,000 seats? I imagine, while typing, the meeting of AEG Live/Concerts West executives as they sort out who makes the vaunted “short list” of performers considered to play The Colosseum:
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2009/apr/23/brainstorming-whos-and-out-colosseum/
A Peepshow pictorial of provocative poses and shameless shenanigans.
By: Robin Leach/Las Vegas Sun
Since its opening night when Lindsay Lohan scooped the headlines (click HERE for our breaking news report), Peepshow with Mel B and Kelly Monaco has become the most talked about show on the Strip. Now for the first time, Vegas DeLuxe has the first full photo gallery of the sassy and saucy stars and their backup burlesque beauties.
Mel, the artist formerly known as Scary Spice, and Kelly, General Hospital vixen, are having the time of their lives with the show. “We’re enjoying every moment,” Kelly told me. “It’s fabulous fun, and everybody in the cast is getting along beautifully!”
Entertainment dollar goes a long way at Ovation Lounge.
By: Jerry Fink/Las Vegas Sun
Michael Grimm is part of the eclectic mix of entertainment that keeps the Ovation showroom at Green Valley Ranch Station Casino hopping.
For those with a death grip on their entertainment dollars, many shows — including Grimm’s — are free.
Grimm is not to be missed if you like great blues.
His band performs at Ovation at 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and he moves inside Hank’s Steakhouse at the casino on other nights.
More here: ‘Jersey Boys’ celebrates first anniversary at Palazzo. Time flies when you're having a great time and you won't have a greater time in Vegas than seeing "Jersey Boys," the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The bio-musical celebrates its first anniversary on at the Palazzo Sunday, May 3. In honor of the show’s first anniversary, the cast of "Jersey Boys" will present a medley of songs in a live performance in support of Race for the Cure at 9:50 a.m. Saturday, May 2 on the 3rd Street Stage of the Fremont Street Experience. More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/30/entertainment-dollar-goes-long-way-ovation-lounge/
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/29/jersey-boys-celebrates-first-anniversary-palazzo/
By: Jerry Fink/Las Vegas Sun
When two electrifying performers come together on the same stage, it’s a sure bet sparks will fly.
Longtime Vegas entertainer Earl Turner and versatile Philippine vocalist Lani Misalucha join forces beginning Wednesday at the Las Vegas Hilton’s Shimmer Cabaret for a show that promises to be as dynamic and inspiring as any in town.
“Lani has a different style and energy,” Turner says. “And you know what I play — I’m old school. Taking these two styles and putting them together should be lot of fun.”
Guaranteed.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/21/vegas-veteran-society-seven-singer-team-hilton-gig/
Las Vegas Summer Packages.
Summer Fun at Luxor
Start the fun early and enjoy spring and summer at Luxor with this package, which includes:
25% off cabana reservations or VIP pool seating
15% off at Oasis Pool Store
$10 beverage credit at Oasis Restoration Cost: Rates start at $60 per night plus tax
Availability: Now through August 31, 2009
Reservations: (877) 386-4658 or www.luxor.com
Summer Splash at MGM Grand
Spend sizzling summer days at MGM Grand at great summer rates
$35 dining credit
Two-for-one spa passes for facility and fitness center use at Grand Spa
Two (2) poolside cocktails
$25 slot FREE PLAY® Cost: Rates start at $75 per night plus tax
Availability: Now through October 10, 2009; offer must be booked by May 12, 2009
Reservations: (800) 929-1111 or www.mgmgrand.com
Summer Family Fun at Circus Circus
Guests can save over $150 when booking the “Family Fun Package.” The special offer includes:
Two-for-one All Day Ride Passes to The Adventuredome Theme Park at Circus Circus (up to two free passes)
Buy one, get the second admission half-off to Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (up to four discount passes)
Two-for-one rides at The Roller Coaster at New York-New York (up to 2 free rides)
Two-for-one admission to Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage (up to two free passes)
Two-for-one tickets to the Tournament of Kings Dinner Show
20% off admission to Bodies, The Exhibition at Luxor (up to 4 tickets)
20% off admission to Titanic, The Artifacts Exhibition at Luxor (up to 4 tickets) Cost: Rates start at $41.95 per night plus tax
Availability: Now through September 9, 2009
Reservations: (800) 937-7777 or www.circuscircus.com
Wayne's World BY Wayne Bernath
Here’s a tip for a tip. Tell your fares to just mention at The Lance
Burton Theatre’s Box-Office that they want “the special” and they will get
a 25 percent discount and a program.
Big changes at the Tropicana Resort and Casino with “The Sopranos Last Supper” moving to the cellar from the Greek Isles after opening on April 24th. “Hypnosis Unleashed” starring Michael Johns and Terry Stokes opened in the late spot on April 25th after moving over from the Harmon Theatre (KRAVE). Still no word on who is replacing “les Follies Bergere” the longest running show ever to play Las Vegas with almost 50 years under their belt. Barbara Walters father was responsible for the show’s opening in 1950. During the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s it was considered the sexiest show on The Strip.
Those were the days when there were walk-on showgirls and there were dancers.
Those duel 52-stories are the PH Towers by Westgate a major timeshare company. “These are luxury timeshare properties that provide 500,000 timeshare owners with vacation experiences unavailable anywhere else,” says David Siegel, President and CEO of Westgate Resorts. The top five stories will include 8’ TV screens with 4,000-12,000 square feet of living space with up to four bedrooms. It’s scheduled to open in September.
My wife and I zip-lined in the Costa Rica jungle and what a rush! Low and behold you can do it cruising above the Grand Canyon at speeds of up to 50 mph.
BootlegCanyon Flightlines is where thrill-seeking vacationers and locals can experience the view of the canyon as they hover above the desert
valley.
Afraid of heights? Naahhh! Besides some of the world-renowned casinos on The Las Vegas Strip and the best golf courses in the world and the fabulous nightlife Vegas has got it all. There’s simply no place like Vegas!
Carlos Santana will be to the Hard Rock beginning May 27 what Barry Manilow is to the Las Vegas Hilton. Santana a legendary guitarist and his 10-piece band will perform 36 shows a year thru 2010 in an exclusive contract with the Hard Rock. Santana stole the show at Woodstock. Who would have thought 40 years later he would play Vegas?
The Joint was recently remodeled to include luxury suites and a top-notch
video system. His new rock ‘n’ roll show will be called “Supernatural
Santana: A Trip Through the Hits.”
Directly across The Strip from the Monte Carlo is the world’s busiest candy store with eight million visitors since it opened 10 years ago. M&M’s World is a four-level
retail story and the candy just sweetens the visit. The shop leads to a 3-D
movie theater showing “I Lost My M&M in Vegas.” Also on display is a
replica of M&M’s race car from NASCAR Sprint Cup Series that is driven
by Kyle Busch. See www.mymms.com.
Gordie Brown’s relationship with his audience is a big part of his show
at the Golden Nugget. His inspirations were Rich Little, Elvis and Paul
Anka. Gordie Brown has a huge repertoire of impressions exceeding 60
notables. Brown’s repertoire includes Mike Tyson, Jack Nicholson, Tom
Cruise, Sly Stallone, Robert DeNiro, Jim Carrey and Dr. Phil. His singing
impressions are dead-on with Cold Play, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra
and Sammy Davis Jr. I saw his act 20 years ago when he was the opening
act for Melinda: The First Lady of Magic at the Landmark (now a parking
lot for the LVCVA).
The top 10 shows in Las Vegas are always changing so in grading them
based on talent: (1) Lance Burton: Master Magician – the best magic
show in the world for all ages, (2) Terry Fator & His Cast of Thousands
– the best ventriloquism act in the world, (3) “Jersey Boys” – the most
talented tribute singers ever, (4) Donny & Marie Osmond – the best
singers on The Strip with superb showmanship (5) George Wallace – the
funniest comedian on The Strip (6) “Blue Man Group” – the most offbeat
but entertaining show for something different (7) “Hypnosis Unleashed”
– you will see Michael Johns or Terry Stokes now at the Tropicana very
funny stuff, (8) “Le Rev” – it’s very European and has come a long way
since opening night, (9) “Mystere” – one of my favorite shows on The
Strip especially the preshow part, (10) “Phantom – The Las Vegas
Spectacular” – great!
The 5th Annual Nicky’s Week fundraiser takes place from May 24-30
at RA Sushi Bar Restaurant at the Fashion Show Mall to benefit St. Jude
Children’s Research Hospital. RA Sushi has chosen this charity to work
with because one of the owners had a nephew who had suffered from
brain cancer and St. Jude assisted the family during his treatments.
Nicky passed away in February of 2005. The fundraiser was named in
his honor to promote the support provided at no cost to families and
children receiving care at St. Jude. RA Sushi will donate 100 percent of
the proceeds from the sale of various food and beverage items.
From "Report On Vegas.Com"
Ultimate Poker Acadamey:
The High Heels Poker Tour Academy (HHPTA) will be offering a 2-day all women's poker academy on June 5th & 6th ,with poker pros Barbara Enright, Susie Isaacs, Karina Jett, Lisa Adams, JJ Liu, and others who will offer their insight, expertise, and experiences as the best in the industry. This is the first time, that an all women's poker academy has brought so many world class female pros together to offer this one in a lifetime experience. With over 50 years of experience between them, these women can offer training that is unmatched.
Tuition to this academy includes a free entry into the June 10th's HighHeelsPokerTour Ladies Event at The Hard Rock Poker Lounge. Students, who participate, will benefit from a hand-by-hand instruction, individualized attention from the top female pros in the industry and leave with personal feedback from their instructors. The women who attend any academy will also receive promotional give-a-ways, prizes and much more. To reserve your seat to this once in a lifetime experience, go to www.highheelspokertouracademy.com or click on "academy registration".
New Publication In Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Black Image Magazine, which will feature monthly insightful and entertaining highlights of African-Americans celebrities and residents in the Las Vegas Nevada area. Readers who have an overall interest in the diversity “in living” of African-Americans in Nevada will be delighted to have The Las Vegas Black Image Magazine as a literary option. It is projected that the visiting national and international tourist community visiting Las Vegas will attain the hard copy or internet Las Vegas Black Image Magazine issue to find out the latest news and information encompassing African-Americans in Las Vegas Nevada.
http://www.reportonvegas.com/
Monti-licious from "Report On Vegas.Com"
The Miss USA Pageant was held this week at Planet Hollywood where the beautiful Miss California, who has a right to her opinion, lost the crown due to her response to a question posed by Perez Hilton. Perez Hilton, the blogger, tends to be mean spirited at every opportunity. He's known for outing men who don't want to come out of the closet among other things. Why do we have to make a gay issue of a pageant when each of us is allowed to have our own opinion. I also take issue with reporter Alicia Jacobs and others who tend to come across, or at least try to, as holier than thou when it comes to the religious right or political correctness. This is America and a right to free speech is a guarantee.
Sir Elton John closed his show at Ceasars Colosseum. It was a big fan fare. After all he had done almost 300 shows over the last five years. In the audience for closing night was spotted Elizabeth Hurley and her new husband as well as the Osbourne clan. His after-show party at The Sea Harbor Seafood Restaurant with 170 invited guests was a show in itself. Rumor has it he may return in a year or so. I'm still waiting for Celine Dion to come back and show everyone how it's done. Celine come back, we need you.
Lani Misalucha and Earl Turner are starring in a new show at the Hilton," Voices"., The show is presented by John Stewart from Legends in Concert fame and is playing at the Shimmer Showroom. Lani's singing of operatic arias is a show stopper. She is on her own now but first came to Las Vegas as part of the Society of Seven. Earl Turner was one of the first entertainers I saw when I arrived in Las Vegas and he does an admiral job of bringing the audience up to par. A little fine tuning and this show will produce legs.
The Peepshow celebrated their world premier at Planet Hollywood this week and I'm sure my readers of Gaming Today have been waiting for the review. Peepshow is like Broadway meets Vegas.. Jerry Mitchell is a genius at choreography and directing. It's extravagant, expensive and well produced. The show has great singers and beautiful costumes. full of girls, girls, girls and specialty numbers starring Mel B who was fabulous with co-star Kelly Monaco, (who has basically little to do). I would like to see more of the all girl band that it features and although the show is a tad long, it could use a little more comedy.. It's only an idea.
Opening night audience for Peepshow included Donald Trump, who was probably in town for the Miss USA Pageant, Bob Mackie, Mimi Hines and Lindsay Lohan. Rumors about town said Lindsay would eventually replace Kelly Monaco, (almost anybody could replace her) but according to my spies that's not likely. Lindsay, looking much too thin, appears to be on a downward swing again, and seems much too frail for the demands of a nightly Las Vegas show. Lindsay, get back on track. You are too young and talented to destroy yourself. The latest rumor is that Elizabeth Berkley will replace Kelly.
Certain shows in Las Vegas have a common thread running through them. Burlesque? Maybe. Girlie? For sure! My readers know I'm a fan of Anita Mann whose show Fantasy at the Luxor has been running for nine years. The show is kept fresh by Anita's constant attention and re-tooling. Another example of the common thread was Showgirls at the Rio where I was a guest star for Greg Thompson's production of Showgirls. Crazy Horse, originally from Paris, has been doing very well at the MGM for the last few years. It's that common thread, adult entertainment, the Las Vegas expectation, the brand that keeps those shows here for years. And don't forget the newer shows, Men of X an Hooters and XBurlesque at The Flamingo.
Steve Wynn's appearance on television's 60 Minutes was a nice shot for Las Vegas. After all, Steve is our true visionary. He was quite open about the issues with his eyesight and CBS touched gently on his multi-million dollar divorce. Can you believe he was actually sitting on top of Encore when they made that commercial? It's true and I'm glad they made it known. Friends of mine in California called after seeing the 60 Minutes bit and said they had recently seen Steve in Los Angeles dining with a lady friend.
Last week we saw the latest production of Legends, now at Harrah's. The show still has "it" and is a piece of Las Vegas history. After the show we had a fabulous dinner at The Range, where the food and service are the best.
For those of us with strong consitutions, there is the new show at O'Sheas, –"FREAKS" Produced by Anthony Cool, this is Coney Island revisited, and, for us older folks , a hint of the great Tyrone Power movie, Nightmare Alley, The show moves through a series of vignettes, some of which are, shall we say, unbelieveable. It's quite an experience, all acts are legit, with no illusions. It the kind of show that Las Vegas does best.
With the closing of the Folies Bergere at the Tropicana I was reminded that the Folies had been a starting point for many entertainers including Lance Burton and Siegfried & Roy. When Barbara Walters' late father, Lou, first brought the show to Las Vegas from Europe some fifty years ago it included specialty acts along with the topless showgirls and lots of glitz and glamour. My first time in Vegas was in 1967 when I came to perform at Caesars Place. I was just a kid from New York and seeing the Folies was mind boggling and truly extraordinary.
http://www.reportonvegas.com/
Free Printable Las Vegas Coupons
From: www.vegas4locals.com
Allure Salon: New customer specials
Annie Bananie Wild West Tours: Up to $30 off tours
Awesome Adventures: $30 off ATV, horseback, kayak & gold mine tours
Casino Roofing: 10% off and free estimates
Casting Call Entertainment: Free head shot session with acting or modeling class
Dixie Dooley Master Mystifier: 2-for-1 admission
Fashion Outlets: Shopping coupons
Fitz of Laughter: 2-for-1 admission
Haunted Vegas Tour & Show: $10 off admission
Hypnosis Unleashed: $10 off admission
ICE Direct from Russia: $20 off admission
Ignite: 2-for-1 admission
Jay White as Neil Diamond: 2-for-1 admission
Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville: Free souvenir with purchase
LA Comedy Club: 2-for-1 admission
Las Vegas Comedy Show: 2-for-1 admission
Larry G. Jones Singing Impressionist: 2-for-1 admission
Liberace Museum: $12.50 off museum & cabaret admission
Madame Tussauds: Up to $16 off admission
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Mystery Adventures: $5 off tour price
Nathan Burton Comedy Magic: Free admission with buffet purchase
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Pampas Brazilian Grille: Free bottle of wine
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Riviera Comedy Club: 2-for-1 admission
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The Mentalist Gerry McCambridge: Free ticket with drink purchase
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The Sopranos Last Supper: $10 off admission
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Tony & Tina's Wedding: $15-$30 off admission
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Too Hotties Haircuts: New customer special
Valhalla Wellness & Medical Center: $50 off medspa services, $75 off membership
Vegas Indoor Skydiving: $10 off single flight
Vegas Mob Tour: $10 off admission
Vegas Wedding Chapel: $50 off any ceremony
Vinnie Favorito Comedy Show: $10 off admission
Voices with Earl Turner and Lani Misalucha: $35 ticket (save $14.95)
X Burlesque: $10 off admission
Click Here for Las Vegas coupons
Paradise Found.
As the mercury rises, VooDoo Beach, the Rio's Brazilian escape, turns into the quintessential tropical party.
By: Jack Houston/Las Vegas Magazine
Brazilian beaches have always had a certain mystique about them: the white sand, the turquoise water and, ah yes, those barely there swimsuits. It's why tourists flock to the shores of Copacabana in the South and Pipa in the North, and why the allure of the tall and tan and young and lovely Girl From Ipanema lingers year after year.
When it comes to Las Vegas, where the nearest sand usually includes a cactus or two, many vacationers are inclined to believe such a tropical oasis is miles away. Not so. VooDoo Beach at the Rio bottles all the fun and sun of a Brazilian praia and uncorks it across four lush pools with all the amenities just a few sun-soaked steps away.
VooDoo takes our favorite tropical icons – real sand, palm trees, waterfalls – and liberally sprinkles in that Vegas panache: bikini-clad cocktail servers, luxury cabana rentals and a grill serving everything from nachos to sushi. Four hot tubs are located around the complex, as well as chaise lounges, and the Cabana del Sol is the one-stop shop for everything you forgot, including suntan lotion, swimwear and sunglasses.
A round, canopied stage is the spot for live entertainment, and VooDoo kicks off its summer concert series there with a free, 18-and-over performance by Spin Doctors on May 21. Future concerts include Cracker, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Marcy Playground and Nine Days, and Presidents of the United States of America and the Ataris.
A second retreat, secluded behind a bamboo fence on the far side of VooDoo, Sapphire Pool returns for its second season with European-style sunbathing and newly renovated cabanas, circular daybeds and padded chaise lounges. Splurge for the cabanas and everything from massages, food delivery and bottle service to 32-inch drop-down, pivoting flat screens can be yours. The adults-only haven also boasts three cascading waterfalls, two Jacuzzis and music courtesy of DJ Girl 6.
It all gets under way when Audrina Patridge hosts Sapphire's grand opening party on May 2. The event is open to the public with proceeds from the evening benefiting the Prostate Cancer Foundation. But the party doesn't stop once the Hills hottie hits the hay; the caipirinhas flow freely all summer long at VooDoo.
VooDoo Beach is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily and is free for all hotel guests and locals. Cabanas can be reserved by calling 702.777.7196.
Sapphire Pool is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily beginning May 1. Admission is $30 Sun.-Thurs., $50 Fri. & Sat. and $60 holidays for men. All hotel guests and local ladies are admitted free; local men receive half-off admission. Cabanas can be reserved by calling 702.777.7709
http://lvshowbiz.com
Back To The Future.
Flamingo's Go Rooms define contemporary luxury.
By: Lesloe Frisbee/Las Vegas Magazine
"An oasis in the desert where travelers from both the East and West Coast could come for gambling, fine food, luxury accommodations and great entertainment." That was Bugsy Siegel's dream. The man credited with turning Las Vegas into the gambling mecca of the United States, Siegel envisioned a luxury property that would have individual air conditioning, tiled bathrooms, gardens and swimming pools and provide guests the "complete experience," a property he would call the Pink Flamingo Hotel and Casino.
Now a 3,500-room property owned by Harrah's Entertainment, the Flamingo, located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, is surrounded by lush tropical gardens, a 15-acre wildlife habitat, swimming pools and spectacular waterfalls. The hotel boasts a 77,000-square-foot casino, headline entertainment, stunning Strip views and one-of-a-kind guest rooms.
Having completed an award-winning renovation, the Flamingo's redesign transformed more than 500 hotel rooms into lavish, stylish and technologically advanced suites. Acknowledged by the prestigious Hospitality Design Awards for Creative Achievement, the Flamingo GO Rooms renovation project was recognized as a finalist in both the Hospitality Debut and Mid-Range Hotel categories.
A collaboration between Flamingo and Cagley & Tanner, a Las Vegas interior design firm, the GO Rooms' designs capture the essence of the architecture of the legendary 1940s resort.
Highlighting the renovations was the completion of 30 GO Metropolitan rooms. The sleek 1,500-square-foot, two-bedroom suites epitomize luxury. They're adorned with rich hardwood floors, marble bathrooms and state-of-the-art entertainment centers, four 42-inch flat-screen high-definition televisions and a vibrant green, brown and orange color scheme. The posh retro suites provide a stunning view of the pulsating Las Vegas Strip.
In a city where the landscape and skyline are forever changing, it is nice to know that a little bit of Las Vegas antiquity can still be found in the heart of the Strip at the Flamingo. As for Siegel, one can only assume that his "oasis in the desert" has far surpassed his imagination. And yet some 80 years later, the Flamingo is exactly what he envisioned…a place for guests to GO for a "complete experience."
http://lvshowbiz.com/
The Big One
Jersey Boys celebrates four seasons on the Strip.
By: Kiko Miyasato/Las Vegas Magazine
Everything about them said "ordinary." The place they grew up. The way they spoke. The problems they shared. But out of the ordinary something extraordinary happened.
Gearing up to celebrate its one-year Vegas anniversary on May 3, Jersey Boys continues to be one of the hottest shows on the Strip. The smash hit at The Palazzo explores the lives of one of the biggest groups in music history, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. The original Broadway hit was the recipient of four Tony Awards, including 2006's Best Musical. In addition to the Vegas and New York residencies, the musical plants its feet in Toronto, Melbourne, London and Chicago and also boasts a touring show.
The story is a powerful one, made even more potent because the story is true. It's told from four different perspectives, based on each member. Follow Tommy DeVito, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi and Valli as they meet when they're boys, stick together as they grow into men and create "that sound, their sound." In a time when popular music was being imported, The Four Seasons were creating an all-American, working-class sound. It started with a handshake, a favor, a recommendation, a dive bar and a song.
Now if you ask each member who was the glue that held band together, you get four different answers. Some might say DeVito was responsible for making the whole thing happen. Or without Valli's distinct falsetto voice, the band would have lost its particular sound. Or without Massi's cool demeanor, the band wouldn't have stayed in line and grounded. Or, some might say, without Gaudio, the hits wouldn't have been written. Anyway you look at the equation it's pretty safe to say that the sum was greater than the parts.
At the core of the story, Jersey Boys is about family, friendship, ups and downs, growing up and growing apart – real people with real problems. But let's not forget the music. Just as Valli says, "The first time we made that sound, our sound, when everything dropped away and all there was, was the music…that was the best."
Get nostalgic and relive history when songs such as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Walk Like a Man," "Bye, Bye Baby" and "Who Loves You" are performed to perfection. If you didn't realize just how many hits this group had, you'll be pleasantly reminded. The show is a grand trip down memory lane for some, a pleasant discovery for others, and real life for four boys from Jersey.
http://lvshowbiz.com/
Vegas4Visitors Weekly Awards By Rick Garman
The Jackpot of the Week Award goes to Rachael Renee Romanick who sat down at a Megabucks machine in Reno, Nevada last week and ten minutes later lined up the right symbols to earn her a cool $33 million. It’s the second largest slot jackpot in history. The Extension of the Week Award goes to the Luxor, which has extended the time in which you can book their all inclusive package with a room, all day passes to the buffet, tickets to various shows and attractions, spa visits and more. The package, which starts at $210 per night, is now available through the end of the year (originally you had to book by April).
The Groovy Man Award of the Week goes to The Fremont Street Experience, which will pay homage to the 40th anniversary of Woodstock with a summer long psychedelic music and entertainment festival featuring bands like Three Dog Night and Blood, Sweat, and Tears plus special shows on the Viva Vision light and sound canopy.
Staying Safe in Vegas: Crime BY Rick Garman
When the economy goes down, crime usually goes up. With the economy in the toilet it’s not surprising that there has been an increase in reports of crime in Las Vegas, everything from pick-pocketing to room break-ins. In fact last week, celebrity Kelly Monaco’s hotel room was burglarized while she was in it. She wasn’t hurt but thieves made off with some loot while she hid under the bed.
With this in mind, I thought it would be a good idea to offer up a few pointers on how to reduce the chances that you will be a victim of a criminal act while visiting Las Vegas.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It’s very easy to get distracted in Las Vegas – there are lots of shiny things and pretty colors designed to capture your attention. But people who are lost in the Vegas madness are more likely to be targets for those looking to take advantage of the situation. While staring at that fountain show or pirate battle or pumping dollars into a slot machine, look around every now and then to see what’s going on in the real world. Take note of strangers who seem to be invading your personal space or seem to be taking more of an interest in you than they should. Pick-pockets and the like will notice you noticing them and will be more likely to move on to someone who isn’t paying as much attention.
Guard Your Assets
Men should consider carrying their wallets in a front pocket or wearing one with a chain that attaches to the belt buckle. Women should consider not carrying a purse at all or if absolutely necessary, get one with a long enough strap so it can be worn across the body instead of casually slung over your shoulder. While they are not the most fashion-forward statement, fanny packs are also good alternatives although you should make sure to keep them zipped closed whenever not in use.
Stick to the Beaten Path
Compared to other major metropolitan areas, Las Vegas is pretty safe and most of the tourist areas in Las Vegas, including The Strip and Fremont Street in Downtown, are fine to explore and enjoy. But just like any other city there are some bad areas of town and unfortunately many of those areas are immediately adjacent to the main tourist spots. The neighborhoods that surround Downtown and those just west of The Strip range from not so great to downright scary. Don’t wander off the beaten path, especially at night.
Use the Valet
How many times have you driven to a hotel’s self-parking area only to find it so full that you wind up having to park in the furthest corner of the upper-most floor? That can put you and your vehicle at risk, especially if you are planning to head back to your car late at night. Valet parking is free at most major hotels in Las Vegas so why not use it? If the valet at your hotel is full, consider trying one at a neighboring hotel. For instance, if you can’t use the valet at The Mirage, go to Treasure Island and then take the tram between the two hotels.
If People are Lurking, Wait
When you are going to your hotel room, be sure to pay attention to other people in the hallway. If you see anyone who looks even remotely threatening – you know, like an 82-year-old woman with a walker – wait a few moments before you open the door to your room. You can pretend to be looking for your key or you can just stand there if you feel like it, but waiting until the hallway is clear will ensure that no one will try to come in the room with you.
Lock and Bolt Your Door
I know this sounds ridiculously simple but a lot of people use only the auto-lock feature on their door and don’t bother with the extra security features while inside. Most Las Vegas hotel rooms have additional bolts, locks, or chains that can increase safety and while they are never foolproof, they do put an extra level of security between you and someone who wants to get inside.
Use the Safe
Most hotel rooms in Vegas these days have in-room safes. If yours does, use it, even when you’re in the room. Keep your cash, phones, jewelry, or whatever else you have of value in it at all times and only take them out when you need to use them. If your room doesn’t have a safe, ask the front desk if they have safety deposit boxes – most do.
Privacy Please
One little trick that I use all the time is to put up the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my door whenever I leave the room. This is the same effect as leaving the lights on when you leave the house, signaling to would be burglars that there is someone inside. If they have a choice between a door with a privacy sign on it and one without they will probably be more likely to choose the one without.
Staying Safe in Vegas: Health
Great – as if we didn’t have enough to worry about these days, apparently now there’s a burgeoning global pandemic of the swine flu. Just what we needed, thanks for that. Going to Vegas poses unique health risks for a few reasons. First, the sheer number of people from all over the world means you are more likely to be exposed to all manner of illnesses. Second, your touching a lot of stuff that someone else just touched and we’re not talking about the usual door handles or sink faucets we’re talking about slot machine handles or buttons, cards, gaming chips, and more.
There is no way to ensure you won’t get sick while visiting Las Vegas short of not visiting… or perhaps wrapping yourself in plastic. But that would be uncomfortable and not terribly stylish. However, there are a few tricks you can use to reduce the chance that you’ll bring home a cold or worse.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands often with warm water and soap is one of the simplest and best defenses against catching someone else’s germs. You don’t need to be obsessive about it, but when you get up from a gaming table or change slot machines, stop by the bathroom for a quick scrub. And definitely wash your hands thoroughly before eating anything, especially if you have just come from the casino as so many people do.
More Hand Care
Other options for keeping your hands free of germs is to carry around a bottle of hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial wipes. Again, you don’t need to go crazy – no need to wipe down between every hand of blackjack – but if the soap and water isn’t easily accessible this makes a good backup plan. If you really want to go to an extreme, you could also wear gloves. Ladies can evoke their inner Audrey Hepburn and there are several stores that sell special “gambler’s gloves.” They look a little silly but if you’re serious about not wanting to get sick they are hard to beat.
Listen for Sniffles
If you’re in a casino or a showroom or at a restaurant pay attention to the people around you. If you hear or see someone sniffling or sneezing or coughing, you may want to consider a different blackjack table or another station at the buffet. I once sat next to a woman at a gaming table who kept coughing without covering her mouth and despite my repeated requests to cut it the hell out, I finally had to move. Unfortunately I didn’t move soon enough and a couple of days later I was in bed with a cough of my own.
Re-Sanitize
Most major hotels do a good job of sanitizing the bathrooms, which is where the bulk of the nasty stuff that can get you sick lurks. But despite their best efforts, bacteria and viruses can stay behind even after the cleaning crew leaves – note the multiple outbreaks over the years of the norovirus at Strip and Downtown hotels. So, remember those antibacterial wipes I mentioned above? Why not give your faucet handles, toilet seat and handle, light switches, and other similar surfaces a quick wipe before you use them? It only takes a minute and trust me, the maids won’t be offended.
Water, Water Everywhere
One thing that a lot of people don’t do enough of while in Vegas is drink water. It’s easy to get distracted by the general hubbub and the constant on-the-go nature of the town and people don’t remember to drink as much water as they should, especially when it gets hot. Worse, I’ve heard a few of you may have an alcoholic beverage or two while you’re in Las Vegas, which only dehydrates you more. Drinking lots of water helps your body’s natural defenses and could help you fight off disease.
What Do You Mean Pulling a Slot Handle Isn’t Exercise?
I know, I know… the last thing you want to do in Vegas is exercise. You’re on vacation! You want to sleep until noon and eat too much at the buffet and order too many free cocktails at the blackjack table and stay up until 5 in the morning partying. I hear you. But here’s the deal: getting even a moderate amount of exercise can give your body that boost it needs to stay healthy. Most hotels in Vegas have a gym so go spend 15 minutes on the treadmill or, if you prefer, forgo the cab to that casino up the street and walk instead.
http://vegas4visitors.com/
Vegas Values Report for April 26th.
http://americancasinoguide.com/information/vegas-values/april-26-2009-vegas-values-report.shtml
Brett's Vegas Views By Jackie Brett
CADILLAC RANCH IS NEW RESTAURANT AT TOWN SQUARE
Cadillac Ranch is a new 12,000-square-foot All American Bar &Grill located on the South Strip in Town Square across from Rave Motion Pictures, on the second floor, adjacent to Blue Martini and above the Yard House, which are also national chain eateries. Together the three restaurants create an exciting happening place especially for the singles' scene.
The theme is rock 'n' roll inspired with photos and guitars around the room. Some of the ceiling is made up of tacked up license plates from around the country. While the place is immense, it is broken up into areas that include two separate huge outdoor patios with fire pits, three separate bars with one opening to the outside, and dining throughout.
A focal point as you enter is the mechanical bull. Rides are $3. Sports can be watched on more than 30 plasma TVs.
Daily hours from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. allow for lunch, dinner and late night fun. Happy Hour is Monday – Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. with domestic beers, well drinks and wines being $3.
The menu includes steak, fresh salads, hickory smoked BBQ ribs and wings, and the famous Angus Beef burgers moderately priced from $7 to $29.
http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/041909.htm
Posted on May 1st, 2009 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter
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