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It's been rumored for months, but now the word's official and the opening of the Strip's first In-N-Out Burger this fall will be among the multiple upcoming changes in store for The LINQ retailtainment complex. In addition, the long-promised Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips -- a take-out operation serving some classic Brit. comfort food -- is finally expected to greet its first diners in late summer, as will Vegas' new Canter's Deli (which formerly has a home at Treasure Island), which will be open 24/7 and will feature a full-service bar. Other additions will include Virgil’s Real Barbecue, an outpost of European gelato brand Amorino, and the return of The Purple Zebra daiquiri bar which plans to reopen in early summer.
With the ACM Awards going down, there's a distinct Country flavor to this weekend's entertainment lineup, although as usual there's a little something for everyone, if that ain't your thang:
The group led by China’s Anbang Insurance Group Co. has withdrawn its latest $14 billion offer in the unexpected bidding war for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., reports Bloomberg, leaving the previous deal with Marriott International Inc. apparently clear to proceed, pending shareholder agreement in an upcoming vote scheduled for April 8. Anbang has given no reason for the withdrawal of last weekend's offer but the move has been confirmed by the Wall Street Journal.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is holding a super short-term twofer room special in honor of April Fool's Day, but you must book on March 21 or April 1, latest. The two-for-one room deal applies only to travel dates during the limited windows of April 20-21 and April 24-28, only. Visit the property's official website for more info and to secure your spot.
While this year's Electric Daisy Carnival will again convert Las Vegas Motor Speedway into party central this June 13-20, with the usual array of multiple stages, festival grounds, art installations, and fairground rides, the week-long homage to EDM will see the whole city involved, with the associated EDMBiz Conference and Expo (June 14-16) to be hosted by Caesars Palace this year, plus a smorgasbord of side parties taking place at multiple daylife and nightclub venues around town. Visit the official website for more information and details of the DJ talent that's already confirmed.
The Ministry of Public Security is introducing a new measure for some categories of citizen wishing to travel from mainland China to the gambling enclave of Macau, or to visit Hong Kong or Taiwan, reports the Macau Daily Times. Up until now, visitors have been able to apply for the required exit-entry visa only in their home/birth town, but as of April 1 some Chinese visitors will permitted to apply for a visa under the Individual Visit Scheme (IVS) through the city where they currently reside if it is above county level and issues residence permits to domestic migrant workers. It is a welcome development to the area's casino operators, who saw an 11.5% drop in visitation from mainland China last year and who view the spending power of these newly enabled visitors as likely to be higher than that of the traditional tourists who travel to Macau on package tours.
NHP is on the scene of a serious five-vehicle accident that took place earlier this morning at U.S. 95 North, just before Las Vegas Boulevard and has shut down all northbound lanes of the freeway; traffic is currently being diverted to Eastern Ave. We'll keep you posted of developments as we hear.
As strongly rumored (see "Today's News" 3/24/2016), things seem to be turning around for Wayne Newton, who's back at his beloved Casa de Shenandoah estate, is among the headlining talent booked for Grand Opening night at the new T-Mobile Arena, and now is also to star in his own one-man show at Bally's beginning April 21. Wayne Newton: Up Close and Personal, follows the recent precedents set by the likes of Mike Tyson, Meatloaf, and others, offering a more intimate and interactive audience experience. In the show, Newton will share stories and footage from his epic career, engage in Q&A sessions, and perform a few crowd-pleasers like "Danke Schoen" (although the emphasis won't be on singing). Tickets go on sale April 7 and start at $75.
While it wasn't "too big to fail," the Riviera Hotel & Casino is, apparently, too big to implode, at least all at once; hence, the latest recommendation is that the structure be razed in stages, with separate implosions tentatively planned for June and August to take down the tower (assuming the LVCVA's full board approves the $45 million price tag it's been quoted to perform the job when it meets next, in April). In the meantime low-rise structures, like the convention facility and parking garage, will be demolished manually.
The legendary race and sports book at the Westgate Las Vegas (formerly Las Vegas Hilton/LVH) has completed its massive recent upgrade with the introduction of a total no-smoking policy, in line with other books in town, among them Venetian/Palazzo (including Lagasse's Stadium), Tropicana, The Cosmopolitan, Hard Rock, M Resort, Palms, Silverton, Aria, and Luxor, which all are smokeless zones. "The Ultimate Fan Cave" viewing room at the Westgate has been smoke-free since it debuted back in 2011, but now the seating area in the main book and the betting windows are also entirely smoke-free.
Sheldon Adelson, CEO of Las Vegas Sands Corp., has named his son-in-law Patrick Dumont as Chief Financial Officer, a post that has been vacant since mid-2013. Dumont, who recently orchestrated the family's takeover of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, will receive a base salary of $1.2 million and be eligible for an annual bonus of up to a matching amount.
The "Let's Dance" Tour featuring Silentó, scheduled to perform in The Pearl at the Palms on April 8, has been canceled. Refunds will be provided via original point of purchase, whether box office or online.
When it comes to video poker play, are you an "artist," a "pilot," or a lowly "driver*"? Bob Dancer provides the tools with which to determine - read if you dare! [*Thankfully, there's no category for "pedestrian," which we believe is reserved for bingo players; "hoverboarder," obviously, applies exclusively to video-keno aficionados ;-)]
If you're looking for new employment, there's an open HireLive recruitment event being hosted by Suncoast next Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with employers including: ADT Security (recruiting sales reps); Crescent School (seeking bartending and dealing students); SunPower (sales reps and installation techs); The Grandview (timeshare sales reps); and Westgate Resorts (OPCs, greeters, and sales reps). Click the link for more info and to register for this free event.
According to blog VegasTripping, MGM Resorts International is delaying the introduction of its new paid-parking policy on the Las Vegas Strip, which had been set to coincide with the upcoming early-April debuts of both The Park and the new T-Mobile Arena. Instead, parking will remain free until the end of May, according to "Tripping", a move being attributed to some apparent organizational issues stemming from the company's recent move to outsource management of the valet-parking program.
It's that time of year -- another day, another pool announcement -- so here's a quick digest of the latest news:
The popular Friday "dayclub" at Palms Pool & Bungalows returns May 6, with a season opener hosted by social media personality and all-round party animal Kirill Was Here [<--link is def. #NSFW].
We've been waiting since early December for the latest gentlemen's club, Sophia's, to debut at the former Oracle Mansion/Badda Bing!/Leopard Lounge venue at 3500 W. Naples Drive, but a couple hours ago the location tweeted that its website is now live (we checked: it is, kinda...) and apparently the real thing is still "coming soon." Stay tuned and watch ToplessVegasOnline.com for updates and reviews, if/when that day finally arrives.
Chef José Andrés' noodle joint at SLS Las Vegas closes April 1; what will take its place has yet to be announced.
Yes, the April issue (kindly disregard any misleading social media notices -- we're blaming the wind...) of our member-only newsletter is now live, with the scoop on $1 oysters, a $5 lunch buffet, tax-refund bonus promos, the most-expensive show ticket in town, and a whole lot more, so check it out!
As anticipated, China’s Anbang Insurance Group Co. has upped its all-cash bid for Starwood Hotels & Resorts to US$14 billion, following the $13.6 billion counter-offer placed by Marriott Worldwide last week. Should Starwood opt to pursue the new Chinese deal, it would be required to pay a breakup fee to Marriott that could total as much as US$450 million, with the latter reacting by issuing an official press release confirming its commitment to purchasing Starwood. Shareholders in both companies are scheduled to vote on the matter April 8.
Rick Moonen's Rx Boiler Room at Mandalay Place is hosting a charity fundraising event tonight from 6-8 p.m., with an evening of storytelling, mixology contests, plus the chef's famous take on classic Kentucky Burgoo -- a southern game stew/soup finished with Wild Turkey -- which features an array of meats including elk, veal, wild boar, and rabbit, all washed down with shots of bourbon and cocktails. Tickets, available here, are $27.37, all-inclusive.
While there were no gaming bonuses over the Easter weekend, you can get 3.3X points on slots and 2X on video poker at Boulder and Sunset Stations and Red Rock either today or tomorrow. Swipe your club card at a kiosk on either day (not both) to get the bonus. Not valid on 100%-return machines.
In the first of this Saturday's Final Four games in the NCAA Basketball Tournament, Villanova opened as a -1 favorite over Oklahoma and has been bet up to -2.5. In the second game, North Carolina is -9 over Syracuse.
I-15 South has been closed at Spring Mountain Road. We don't know the reason, but cars are being forced to exit and traffic is backed up to downtown on the freeway. Associated traffic jams are also forming on Spring Mountain as a result. Avoid the area if you can.
Who says the airport slots don't hit? A Las Vegas woman hit for $933,080 at McCarran Airport on Friday. The jackpot was hit on Wheel of Fortune.
Las Vegas legend Bob Stupak will have a street named for him outside of the Stratosphere casino and tower, which he transformed from the old Vegas World. The current Baltimore Avenue will officially become Stupak Avenue on April 6, which would have been the "Polish Maverick's" 74th birthday. The Stratosphere marks its 20th anniversary on April 30. Our book No Limit, by John L. Smith, is Stupak's biography.
As is traditional, special Easter dinners are being served in the buffets and restaurants all over town. We haven't heard of any special gambling promotions running today. In general, it's been a tame weekend, with March Madness being the focus.
Davy's Locker, the long-operating dive bar on Desert Inn, has been sold and will close at the end of the month for a makeover. The new owners haven't divulged a timetable for a reopening. The bar was originally owned by noted professional boxing referee Davey Pearl, but the difference in spellings makes it unclear whether or not it was named for him.
As part of the renovation of the casino floor at the California, the snack bar has been removed and slot machines now occupy that area. There's no indication that the snack bar, one of downtown's best, will be opened in another spot. The front bar is also closed for a redesign.
Boulder City hosts the 4th Annual Boulder City Beerfest today in Wilbur Square Park, with approx. 2,500 attendees, 30 beer tents, and 8 food trucks anticipated, plus some specialty vendors. The event runs from 1-7 p.m. and the admission charge* bestows a wristband and souvenir glass for your unlimited brew samples. (*This will be somewhere a little of north of $30 on event day, but we're not sure precisely how much; just note that space will be limited so arrive early if you haven't pre-paid for your pass in advance.) Oh, and dogs are welcome too! (No age restrictions on canines -- not even in dog years! -- but everyone else must be 21+.)
What's being dubbed the "Cellphone Lot" has debuted at the south end of McCarran International's Economy Lot (off Kitty Hawk Way). The 115-space facility is so-named since it's designed for those waiting on a call from the passenger they're there to pick up and will be open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily for those in need of a short-term parking space but who don't intend to leave their vehicle. On the downside, expect a crackdown on illegal curbside loitering in the arrivals area, with a recent ordinance approved by Clark County commissioners that increases the penalties for any illegal motorist activity at the airport.
The latest acts announced for the imminent (and eclectic) grand opening festivities for the T-Mobile Arena are Nicki Minaj, with special guest Ariana Grande, who'll perform on April 7. In other news, legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli will be kicking off a U.S. tour on Dec. 3 with a performance at MGM Grand Garden Arena, where he'll be joined on stage by conductor Eugene Kohn, guest artist Katharine McPhee, and soprano Ana Maria Martinez. Tickets go on sale April 4.
So, no sooner had we followed official orders and updated our Las Vegas resort fee listings, than we received a "recall" email from Westgate Las Vegas, and a response to our follow-up query, informing us that the resort-fee announcement won't be coming until April. (Everyone, try to act like it's a big surprise when the time comes!)
Blue Martini, the popular and expansive happy hour watering hole at Town Square, is hosting an open casting call, primarily for "front door security hosts.' Call (702) 949-2583 for details.
We have to give credit to Westgate Las Vegas at least for having the cojones to issue a press release about it, instead of employing the usual stealth tactics employed by resorts, but the bad news is that as of April 14, the nightly resort fee will be raised from $24 to $29, plus tax, for guests of the off-Strip property. Visit this page for a full list of current Las Vegas hotel resort fees, and what they cover.
Don't worry, no one is going to mess with Betty Willis' iconic sign, which has been welcoming visitors to Las Vegas since 1959 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" landmark is apparently showing signs of wear and tear and will soon be receiving some TLC from owners YESCO to repair some cracks and chipped paint, reports the R-J. The cosmetic retouching will be scheduled for "off hours" so as not to cause disruption to the photo opportunity enjoyed by millions each year and, in related news, we're happy to report that the live-streaming Earthcam at the site, which was down for awhile recently, is back in action. You can find a link to this and all of Las Vegas' myriad other voyeuristic opportunities, on our dedicated Las Vegas webcam page, where you can enjoy Sin City -- from Strip to strip club! -- from the comfort of your armchair.
A $14 hike in the cost of a marriage license in Clark County last summer, bringing the fee up to $77, was intended to fund additional promotion of Sin City as a marriage destination, in light of revenue from the industry having fallen by a third since its 2004 peak at over $3 billion. However, instead this week county commissioners authorized only $12,000 of the $527,000 collected to be allocated to that cause -- a $158,000 shortfall on what the county had lobbied for -- arguing that the LVCVA was better placed, and cheaper, as a marketing engine and urged the two entities to work together. With signs of a power struggle emerging, however, this may turn out not to be a match made in heaven.
There's a double dose of mobile-eatery events today, starting from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with Food Truck Friday at downtown's Huntridge Theater (1208 E. Charleston Blvd.), where Blue Mahoe, Buldogis Unleashed, Dazzling Bistro, MTO Café, and Sauced slated to be on site to feed the hungry masses. Next up, from 4 to 9 p.m. Top Shelf Wines & Spirits (6415 S. Fort Apache) will be hosting a Food Truck Extravaganza, with another lineup of popular mobile eateries, including Cousins Maine Lobster, Poppy's Pizza Guys, El Shuko Truck, Dragon Grille, Mr Cooker, and The Cookie Bar.
Gossip columnist Robin Leach is confirming earlier rumors of a return to performance for Wayne Newton, with word that the iconic crooner has negotiated a contract with a Caesars Entertainment property -- most likely Bally's. According to Leach, The Wayner will be performing a show based on storytelling about Vegas' vintage era of entertainment, but with a couple of song performances thrown in, in spite of the throat and vocal problems that have plagued the singer for years.
Following recent approval from Nevada gaming regulators for the corporate restructuring plan, MGM Growth Properties LLC, the new REIT (real estate invstment trust) subsidiary of MGM Resorts Int'l, has filed papers with the Securities and Exchange Commission for an initial public offering; sales of shares, to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange, are expected to raise $100 million (or more). At its inception, the new entity will own Mandalay Bay, the Mirage, New York-New York, Monte Carlo, Luxor, Excalibur, and The Park in Las Vegas, plus MGM Grand Detroit, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, and Gold Strike in Tunica, with plans to acquire additional non-MGM entertainment/gaming properties to add to its portfolio in the future.
Online tickets to this year's legendary Burning Man festival, which takes place in Nevada's Black Rock Desert Aug. 28 to Sept. 5, sold out in 30 minutes when they went on sale online Wednesday, reports the Reno Gazette-Journal. Demand outstripped supply by more than 2:1, with some 70,000 would-be attendees vying for just 30,000 tickets, retailing at $390 apiece. This year's gathering features the theme "da Vinci's Workshop," which should fuel some imaginations, and if you missed out yesterday, fear not -- but start saving those pennies -- as an additional 500 tix will be released for sale down the line, but they'll carry a $1,200 price tag; hence, you may want to investigate the festival's ticket-exchange program, which will be up and running early next month.
As part of the Fremont Street attraction's "Charity Challenge," ALL proceeds from SlotZilla zipline rides from 1-7 p.m. today will be donated to The Animal Foundation, which last June announced its "Mission: Possible 2020" campaign, which seeks to transition the facility into a completely no-kill shelter for all healthy rescue animals by the end of the decade. That's a worthy aspiration if ever there was one, so show your support and help make up for the damage someone else did by helping to save a furry life!
On Saturday, April 16, Aliante Golf Club hosts the Aliante Golf Classic, limited to 40 players and with a $125 entry fee, which includes food/beverages, a souvenir logo polo shirt, and a sleeve of branded golf balls. There are prizes for first three placed teams, with a top prize of $2,000 ($500 to each team member, half in cash, half in slot free play or promo chips); additional side events include a Putting Contest and Closest to the Pin Contest, each with cash prizes. To sign up, visit the players club anytime from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily; registration is on Friday, April 16 from 6-7 p.m. only.
This Saturday, from 3-6 p.m., Downtown Container Park hosts its first (and inaugural!) Spring Wine Walk, which will feature five tasting stations offering an array of reds, whites, and bubbly to try. Tickets are limited and cost $25. Meanwhile, for serious wine lovers, on Saturday, April 30, Wine Spectator's Grand Tour Las Vegas will be hosted by the Mirage, with more than 240 wineries from around the world represented and pouring their best bottles. The event will also feature a buffet and all attendees receive a souvenir Riedel tasting glass. Early bird tickets are $325 (increases to $395 after March 26, so get yours now!)
The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Bellagio are awash with cherry blossoms, lanterns, and lucky Koi fish as the resort continues its love affair with all things Japanese in its spring display. The free attraction, which is open 24/7 daily, also features such symbolic fixtures as a traditional 12-foot-tall tea house, a hand-made wreath (Senbazuro Nest) complete with 1,000 Origami cranes, floating overhead parasols, waterfalls, and a topiary turtle fabricated from 850 fresh-cut roses.
Vocalist Lorena Peril, who left her lead role in long-running Luxor revue Fantasy back in 2013 to star in a touring version of Grease, is set to return to the cast beginning April 11. Since her Grease gig ended, Lorena has been performing in Vegas! The Show at the Saxe Theater in the Miracle Mile Shops, among many other one-off engagements and has been "on call" for Fantasy, but now evidently her former role has opened up again and we know that Arnold Snyder at ToplessVegasOnline (a big fan) won't be alone in welcoming her return.
After several years of stalling, New York’s Assembly voted 113-25 Tuesday to legalize mixed martial arts, opening the opportunity for the state to host fights beginning late this year. New York had been the only state in the nation still holding out on allowing the sport, which it had previously claimed was too violent and banned in 1997. Apparently some increased insurance provisions, coupled with the way in which the sport has evolved and matured from its rough beginnings, was finally enough to land a favorable vote for cage-fighting advocates.
When it comes to gambling, at least, this is video poker pro Bob Dancer's sage advice for a number of reasons, as you can read in his latest weekly column, now posted.
Today is that day, but so far the offers we've come across have been pretty sparse, so full marks to Pinches Tacos in Downtown Container Park, which is giving away a mini queso dip with each drink purchased today, and to Hussong's Cantina at Mandalay Place, which likewise is offering a free queso dip with any entree ordered. But come on, Vegas, we want hummus! And where's the spinach & artichoke action at?
Golden Entertainment's Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Casino has debuted its new, state-of-the-art sports book. Operated by William Hill, the facility features a new 165" HD projector screen and an additional 46 HD TVs throughout the space, plus new bar-top games, new menu items, and $1 PBRs. To celebrate the grand opening, on April 2 and 3, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., guests will receive a free drink and a hot dog for every $10 wager placed. The Golden Casino Group also recently rolled out a new player and retail rewards system, Gold Mine Rewards, which allows members to earn rewards across all three of the company's Pahrump casino locations.
In addition, the Nugget continues to host the popular Bonkerz Comedy Club in its Events Center on select Fridays, with the $10 cover including $5 in slot free play.
The Extreme Thing sports and music festival returns to Desert Breeze Skate Park April 2, with the customary lineup of live music, plus the Vegas AmJam skate and BMX competition and other extreme sports demos, food and merch vendors, and interactive games and attractions including Sharpshooter laser tag, a Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course courtesy of Camp Rhino, and Combat Zone Paintball and Zombie Apocalypse. This year, the event will feature a new bigger and badder layout, with five concert stages and a vendor village; early bird GA tix are available now and priced at $20 through April 1 (admission will be $25 at the gate). Visit extremething.com for more info and details of the band lineup.
Kimberley Tripp, who was known for her performances as "Mini Kim Kardashian" in Beacher's Madhouse, was found dead at her Las Vegas over the weekend by her boyfriend, who plays "Mini Kanye West" in the shows. The real Kim Kardashian West acknowledged her impersonator's passing, tweeting "Rest in peace beautiful soul."
As previewed late last year by ToplessVegasOnline, the major remodel and expansion promised at Spearmint Rhino gentlemen's club is now in full swing. The club remains open during construction, however.
Dirk Arthur: Wild Magic has closed at Westgate Las Vegas, but it may not be permanently. A brief press release indicates that he'll return this summer.
This week's guests on Gambling With An Edge, the Bob Dancer/Richard Munchkin podcast that airs from 4-5 p.m. on vegasallnetradio.com, are Jeffrey Compton [who apparently demanded top billing!] and and Anthony Curtis [who didn't] -- we don't know what they'll be discussing, but that just makes it all the more exciting, so tune in! Also, note that Bob Dancer's exclusive weekly column at LasVegasAdvisor.com won't be posted until Wednesday this week, so just hang tight. Wednesday is also when Bob hosts his next free video poker seminar at South Point and the game under the spotlight this week will be 9-4-4 Bonus Deuces Wild. Everyone 21+ is welcome -- get yourself to the Grandview Lounge by noon if you'd like to consult the Oracle.
Not only does Henderson have a new steakhouse, with the recent debut (on Feb. 29) at the Railroad Pass of DeSimone's (named for Joe DeSimone, who purchased the historic property from MGM Resorts), but the hotel-casino's coffee shop, the Iron Rail Cafe, is currently offering an ongoing $9.99 T-Bone Steak Special. Available 24/7 (with a players card), you can be sure that Anthony Curtis will be checking it out soon, so look out for the lowdown in an upcoming issue of the LVA newsletter. What's more, tomorrow, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the casino will be giving away free cake and champagne (while supplies last) in celebration of all March birthdays and on March 24, it's free chocolate-covered raisins all day in honor of that delicacy's "National Day." How sweet (literally)!
The Mad Greek Cafe, more famed for its OTT decor than its food, and with a legendary outpost in Baker that has long fed desperate and weary travelers on the desolate drive to Vegas from California (and vice versa), will not be reopening its location at Sahara and Durango, which had operated for more than a decade but this summer will transform into a Black Bear Diner, reports "Eater Vegas." Fans of the Greek can still also get their gyro fix in Primm, via the second remaining restaurant located Las Vegas Fashion Outlets South.
When live racing resumes at Florida's Gulfstream Park on Wednesday, it will be with a 20-cent Rainbow 6 carryover jackpot of $4,003,307.90, with the popular multi-race wager having gone unsolved for 49 consecutive programs on Sunday. The carryover jackpot is only paid out when there is only one ticket sold with all six winners, and if there's no winner tomorrow, there will be a mandatory payout on March 26, by which time the jackpot may surpass the 2014 record set when a Palm Beach bettor scored a $6.6 million payday.
Yard House, the bar-and-restaurant brand known for its beer menu and which has three locations in Las Vegas (Town Square, Red Rock Resort, and The LINQ), has plans to introduce almost 1,600 new taps of draft beer to its roster starting March 28. The 1,581 new beers will feature an emphasis on local craft brews, with each venue switching out 20-30 of its lower-selling beers for new offerings. March 28 also marks the date on which Yard House will begin offering Sam Adams Utopias, a biennial beer released in very limited quantities that retails for nearly $200 a bottle (yikes!) and will be available in two-ounce pours for $22 at most locations while supplies last.
Both FanDuel and DraftKings have agreed to cease operations in New York as part of a settlement with the state's attorney general's office. An appeals hearing on the legality of DFS is set for September. According to Eilers Research, New York provides 12.8% of DFS players, the most of any state. It's followed by California at 9.7% and Illinois at 6.7%.
As we announced earlier this month, the first of Border Grill's summertime events kicks off at 6 p.m. this evening on the patio overlooking Mandalay Beach, with things already hotting up for the Spring Break Clam Bake. (Tix, if they're not already sold out, are $97 and trust us, this looks AWESOME! Click that link for photographic proof.)
As reported by the "Eater Vegas" blog, despite receiving 39 demerits following a March 8 inspection by the Southern Nevada Health District -- two points shy of an on-the-spot shutdown -- when inspectors returned March 16 for a random re-inspection, as is customary, 16 violations were still in effect, including repeat offenses cited during the original inspection. Such a scenario forces an immediate shut-down of the venue.
Following last week's unexpected bid from China's Anbang Insurance Group, Marriott International on Monday upped its offer for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide by about 15%, to $13.6 billion, a deal that Starwood has accepted. Under terms of the new deal, should it be finalized, post-merger Starwood shareholders will own about 34% of the combined company; a vote is scheduled for April 8, but a counter bid from Anbang is also anticipated.
Trevi, the Italian bistro in the Forum Shops at Caesars, has just debuted a new range of vegan, vegetarian-friendly, and gluten-free menu items, to join the extensive ranks of Las Vegas restaurants that cater to those with special-diet needs.
On top of the current brouhaha over the erstwhile Elvis exhibit at Westgate Las Vegas, comes word that the property has been under investigation for some months by the Consumer Financial Bureau into the possibility of malpractice involving possible violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Electronic Funds Transfer Act, among other things. Click the link for more info, courtesy of LVA's Stiffs & Georges casino-business blog.
It must be "More-Shows Monday" or something, with word that Carlos Santana, who tonight performs that special one-off show being filmed for TV featuring the band's original lineup, has now also announced extra dates for his Greatest Hits Live show at Mandalay Bay's House of Blues. The additional shows commence Sept. 14 and include select dates through November 13. Tickets go on sale this Friday.
Rod "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" Stewart has announced additional 2016 dates for his ongoing residency at Caesars' Colosseum, where he'll return to play nine shows between Aug. 3 and 21. Tickets for these new performances of the Scottish rocker's show The Hits, go on sale Friday, March 25 at 10 a.m. PT.
Philip Panzica, the male party in High Roller "sexcapade" incident that took place last month on the Strip attraction, has been shot to death in a supposed carjacking incident in his home town of Houston. His fiancee, who was not the female party caught publicly partying with Panzica, was in the vehicle but was also in the vehicle but was released unharmed. Two suspects have already been arrested in connection with the (distinctly dubious-sounding but apparently coincidental) incident.
It turns out that our information about a reduced-juice promotion at South Point was good after all, we just had the starting dates confused. From now through the championship game of the NCAA Basketball Tournament, the sports books at South Point, Rampart, Cannery, Eastside Cannery, and Riverside in Laughlin are offering -105 betting on tournament games. The ads say "straight bets only," which we presume means sides and totals.
The estimates are imprecise, but it's fun to throw around the March Madness betting numbers. The American Gaming Association estimates that $9.2 billion will be bet on the tournament this year, with about 97% of that being bet outside of Nevada sports books, including man-to-man betting, office pools, and bets with illegal books. The total works out to about $38 wagered for every adult in the U.S. Further, it's estimated that 70 million brackets were completed (by 40 million people), which is more than the number of votes that will be cast in this year's presidential election.
The seafood restaurant Other Mama is celebrating its 1-year anniversary with $1 oysters and PBR through April 17. Every day a different variety of oyster will be selected for the special. Other Mama is located at 3655 S. Durango Dr. and open daily from 5 to 11 p.m.
Following changes agreed during Friday's meeting of Nevada Gaming Commission, certain Nevada casinos -- like SLS Las Vegas and The Cosmopolitan -- which are owned by private entities that do not publicly trade stock, will no longer have to report their earning publicly with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While the requirement was instituted as an added level of regulatory oversight back when struggling casinos were being taken over by private equity firms -- as opposed to having specific accountable individuals at the helm -- in practice apparently the implications of reporting have proved to be too onerous. The affected casinos will still be required to disclose details of their finances to state gaming regulators, however.
Mark Hunt is a -130 favorite over Frank Mir in tonight's UFC main event. In the other featured match, Neil Magny is -120 over Hector Lombard.
The -105 betting promo for NCAA Tournament games that we'd heard would run at South Point hasn't materialized. It was expected to begin today, but so far all games are lined at the standard -110. Sorry for the bum steer.
If you filled out an NCAA Tournament bracket, it’s probably already busted. In fact, everyone’s is. Most of the giant sports websites reported something in the area of only .1% of brackets still being perfect after Thursday's games, and Friday’s results, including the huge upset of Michigan State by Middle Tennessee State, almost certainly wiped out the remainder. CBS Sports has already announced that it has no surviving perfect picks.
If you cleared out all your junk at South Point's recent "Yard Sale" and are now looking to fix things up for springtime, head over to the Spring Home Improvement and Backyard Expo, running today and Sunday. General admission for adults is $5 and as well as all the home remodeling/decorating/landscaping inspiration, there will be lots of healthy-cooking demos; a pool, spa, and BBQ sale; plus raffles, giveaways, and more.
In spite of a few questions regarding the circumstances of his departure from Hertz and his plans to handle Caesars Entertainment's ongoing bankruptcy restructuring, the Nevada Gaming Commission on Friday voted unanimously to grant a gaming licnese to Mark Frissora, who took over as CEO of Caesars last year following the departure of Gary Loveman.
From 7 - 10 p.m. tonight, Foxtail Pool at SLS hosts the 5th Annual Beer & Music Festival, with live music from Metro Station and unlimited samplings of more than 50 different craft brews. GA tickets are $35.
Dog Haus, vendor of gourmet hot dogs and more, debuted earlier today in the mall opposite the Hard Rock on Paradise Road and it's celebrating by offering a complimentary dog (one per patron only, please) until 10 p.m. tonight.
St. Patrick's Day may officially be behind us, but Las Vegas is keeping the party going (see "Today's News" 3/17 for ongoing events through the weekend) and the Orleans and Gold Coast casinos are in on the action, with "Luck of the Leprechaun" drawings every hour from now until 6 p.m at the former, and tomorrow (Saturday, March 19) from 3-8 p.m. at the latter. 10 winners will win $200 each at each drawing, and the whole promo repeats -- same times, same places -- next weekend (March 25/26), too.
On-Camera Audiences, the largest television studio-audience seat-filler, has free tix for "extras" wishing to be in the audience for a new season of the CW Network's "Penn & Teller's Fool Us," which is returning to Las Vegas to tape April 7-15 at in the duo's magic theater at the Rio. Visit the official website to bag your free tix and follow @OnCamAudiences on Twitter for more info and updates.
As is customary (and appreciated) for peak festive moments, AAA is offering its complimentary "Tipsy Tow" service to St Patrick's day revelers who may have over-indulged, tonight and through 6 a.m. tomorrow . Traffic-related casualties in this city are already at frightening levels, so don't be an idiot or a statistic: call 1-800-222-4357 (AAA-HELP).
Following this morning's disturbing word regarding the arrest of former Strip performer Jan Rouven, comes an update on Criss Angel's show at Luxor. It was announced awhile back that the "Mindfreak" star would be revamping his show significantly and today gossip columnist Robin Leach revealed current Cirque collaboration Believe will close at the Luxor on April 17, returning May 11 in preview as new show Mindfreak Live!. The official premiere is scheduled for June 23.
It's not confirmed, but we're told by reliable sources that South Point plans to offer -105 betting (as opposed to the standard -110) on NCAA Basketball Tournament games beginning this Saturday. We don't know if the reduced-juice arrangement will apply to both sides and totals, but we're told it's expected to run through conclusion of the tournament. Check out today's Question of the Day for more March Madness-related information.
The all-new nightclub venue from Hakkasan Group, which takes the place of Haze at Aria, will debut May 19, with a Grand Opening weekend lineup that kicks off with Jamie Foxx, followed by a "to-be-announced" guest May 20, The Chainsmokers May 21, and Lil Jon on May 23.
Las Vegas tends to go big when it comes to St. Paddy's Day celebrations, so expect the green beer to be flowing all over town today (and through the weekend), but here are some of the highlights, starting at the south end of the Strip and working our way north:
Fox5 News last night broke the news that illusionist Jan Rouven, who had a residency at the Tropicana performing his popular show, The New Illusion, has been arrested by FBI agents on a felony child pornography charge following a court-approved search of his home. In an official statement, a spokesman for the Strip resort described being "deeply disturbed by the very serious charges that have been filed" and confirmed that the Tropicana has severed all ties with the performer, who is being held without bail; those holding tickets to future performances of Rouven's show will be refunded at original point of purchase.
As reported last fall, TV-chef Guy Fieri's El Burro Borracho concept has now opened at the Rio, taking over the space formerly occupied by Buzio's seafood restaurant.
The Derek in question would be Mr Stevens, owner (with partner/brother Greg) of the D, Golden Gate, former Las Vegas Club, Downtown Events Center, and now -- as we just learned from blogger Vital Vegas blog, the historic Bridger building, which they just snapped up for $2.7 million and plan to use initially as a warehouse, and subsequently as more formal office space and as a distribution center for their expanding empire.
His findings are non-binding, still former Watergate investigator Richard Davis, the court-ordered examiner who for a year has led a legal team probing Caesars Entertainment's (CEC) past business transactions as they pertain to the company's bankruptcy-protection filing, finally issued his report Tuesday. In it, he concludes that the company could be liable for up to $5 billion in damages, reports Reuters. At the crux of the investigation is whether Caesars, under the control of Apollo Global Management and TPG Capital, deliberately and fraudulently stripped away prime core assets, leaving it unable to service its massive debt. CEC and its principal creditors dispute Davis' conclusions, including that the operating unit was insolvent as early as 2008 but deliberately failed to disclose this to shareholders and creditors.
In her latest post at Frugal Vegas, "Queen of Comps" Jean Scott tackles some timely reader queries regarding tax filing; you can read all of advice, insights, and tips in Tax Help for Gamblers, which was comprehensively updated, and expanded, for the 2015 edition (available for all major e-Book platforms).
The Downtown Grand is loosening its games. Already paying 3-2 on all blackjack games, several 9/6 Jacks or Better schedules for quarters are now available on the floor. Additionally, an email to players indicates that DG is dealing no-commission buy bets at craps and offers the "loosest video keno payables" at the bar. We'll check it out for the April LVA.
From 7 p.m. every Friday evening, Crazy Horse III gentlemen's club will feature "CH3 Social Club," designed to be an after-work getaway for 9 to 5ers. The hosted events will feature shared-plate style appetizers and "social hour"-priced cocktails, including specials like a free bottle of Belvedere vodka with every bottle of Dom purchased. (For a round-up of upcoming happenings on the Vegas gentlemen's club scene, check out the weekly digest feature, This Weekend in the Vegas Strip Clubs, at ToplessVegasOnline.com.
According to Bloomberg News, owners of the North Las Vegas hotel-casino at 7300 N. Aliante Pkwy. are fishing for a buyer and have hired Los Angeles-based investment bank Houlihan Lokey Inc. to explore a sale. What originally debuted in 2008 as Aliante Station was a joint venture between Station Casinos and the Greenspun media corporation, but control of the struggling property passed to lenders at the height of the Great Recession following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization, and Aliante Hotel + Casino is now owned primarily by Apollo Global Management LLC, Standard General LP, and TPG Capital, also a part-owner of the Palms Casino Resort, which also is said to be on the market (see "Today's News" 3.6.2016).
With the March Madness tournament's play-in games about to start, Kansas is the favorite to win the championship at +480, followed by North Carolina at +520 and Michigan St. at +550. The long shots are Austin Peay, Fairleigh Dickinson, Florida Gulf Coast, Fresno St., Hampton, Holy Cross, Middle Tennessee St., Southern, and Weber St., each at +500000 (5,000-1).
In this week's column, video poker expert Bob Dancer tackles a reader-submitted query and although a straight dollar amount was all that the questioner was looking for, the answer turns out to be multi-faceted, and touches everything from risk of ruin, to risk of ruined relationships. (All that, just over a video poker promotion?!)
In other Dancer news, this week's Gambling With An Edge radio show, co-hosted by Bob and Richard Munchkin (Gambling Wizards) features a return for previous guest, pro horse handicapper, Charlie Davis, who'll be discussing playing in handicapping tournaments. Catch the show live from 4-5 p.m. or check out the podcast later at RichardMunchkin.com.
And for a triple dose of Dancer (go on, if you think you can handle it!), his free video poker class this Wednesday's will feature NSU Deuces Wild -- available as a break-even game (effectively) to members of the players club at South Point, where the seminar takes place. Beginner class at noon; intermediates at 2 p.m.; both take place in the Grandview Lounge; must be 21+.
Some seismic shake-ups continue in the world of hotel accommodation, with news today (and possible future reverberations around Las Vegas) that the planned sale of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide to Marriott International could be under threat from an aggressive bid from China's Anbang Insurance Group Co., which in recent years has already snapped up Strategic Hotels & Resorts Inc. from Blackstone Group LP (for $6.5 billion) and added New York's iconic Waldorf Astoria to its portfolio a couple of years ago. Starwood and Marriott shareholders had been due to vote on the original deal on March 28, but now Anbang has thrown a $13 billion wrench into the works. Stay tuned!
With only a couple of days until the annual sustainability-awareness lights-out event, Earth Hour Las Vegas appears to have pretty paltry participation levels right now, according to the official World Wildlife Fund website, with a few notable exceptions. Those include the full suite of MGM Resorts International properties, which are due to dim/extinguish at least those outer illuminations that won't in any way compromise guest, staff, or aircraft safety, plus Caesars Entertainment (listed under "businesses" but without specifying if all Strip properties will be participating), and the newly declared Las Vegas Sands, whose Venetian and Palazzo resorts will again be dimming for a cause. Local discount-shoe emporium Zappos is also on the list of participating companies, but Las Vegas still falls a long way behind cities like Boston, Dallas, and Los Angeles, where the entire city is getting in on the eco-awareness initiative.
Although we reported recently how a reader had broken the sad news that the MGM Grand Sigma Derby game had staged its last race, the latest word -- via social media -- is that the game is being repaired and should be up and running (no pun intended) once more in time for March Madness. Fingers crossed!
Rosie's Den, the popular cafe on Highway 93, situated about 60 miles southeast of Vegas in Arizona's White Hills, has sold its last lottery ticket, reports Fox5 News. The ticket terminals shut down Feb. 28, with owner Brad Larsen complaining that a lack of jackpots had made maintaining the service financially un-viable, with last year's ticket revenue insufficient to cover the previous year's sales tax. The cafe has previously survived a major electrical fire that saw it burned to the ground back in 2011.
After originally planning to open in August, it's expected that MGM Resorts International will request an extension for its National Harbor casino in Maryland, with plans of opening toward the end of this year. The cost of the project that was proposed at $700 million is now being quoted as $1.3 billion.
A visitor from Washington hit big at the Golden Nugget in February. The just-announced $2.8 million jackpot came on a Ghostbusters Triple Slime machine.
The sports book at Boulder Station is the latest to get a makeover. The grease board has been replaced with a digital odds board and bigger and more technologically advanced video walls have been installed. It's part of a schedule of upgrades at several Station books, with Green Valley Ranch on line to be completed next, followed by Santa Fe, Sunset, and Palace Stations.
Registration is now open for our "Sunday Funday 26" poker tournament. Play begins at noon PST/3 p.m. EST today. Along with $100 for first, there are several new prizes, including the acclaimed poker book, The Course, from Ed Miller; Advanced Advantage Play by Eliot Jacobsen, and our new books Cheating at Blackjack and Fantasy Sports Real Money. And, because we forgot to change the Valentine's day program, prizes will again be awarded to the first 14 finishers. See the entire prize pool and register to play at the LVA Casino (once signed in, click on "Poker Tournaments" and register for Tourney ID 10695). This tournament is completely free to play. There will also be other tourneys running all day for gift cards and play chips. Come have some fun! See you at noon.
Station Casinos is running the Last Man Standing contest for the March Madness basketball tournament. Entries are $25 and if you buy four you get fifth free. All entry fees are returned as prize money. You have until 9 a.m. on March 17 to enter.
Don't forget to move your clocks ahead an hour for daylight saving time. The change carries particular importance for sports bettors, as the start times for Sunday games are affected. And you don't want to miss the noon starting time for today's Sunday Funday poker tournament.
In a much-needed outcome by the daily fantasy sports industry, Virginia has become the first state to pass legislation allowing DFS contests. On the heels of the Virginia decision, Connecticut appears close to passing similar legislation.
Reserve some time tomorrow to play in our 26th Sunday Funday online poker tournament. First place gets $100, and prizes will be awarded to the top 10 places. We've added several new prizes, including our new book, Cheating at Blackjack, along with The Course -- Serious Hold 'Em Strategy for Smart Players and Advanced Advantage Play,, both retailing for $50. The game kicks off at 3 p.m. EST/noon PST. It's completely free to play, with registration beginning two hours before the tournament at the LVA Casino.
The good buffet instacomp at Caesars Entertainment properties that we discussed in the March Las Vegas Advisor has been canceled, at least for out-of-staters. We hear that the deal is still being offered if you have Nevada ID and will run through the end of the month, but it was supposed to run all month for everyone, so don't count on it.
David McKee, author of LVA's much-respected casino-business blog, Stiffs & Georges, returns to his other passion tonight, with the opening night of Steve Tesich's dark Vietnam-vet drama The Speed of Darkness. The play, directed by David, will perform Thursday to Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. tonight through March 27 at Las Vegas Little Theatre; tickets start at $10.
In the ongoing dispute over the Elvis Presley exhibit at the Westgate Las Vegas, the Elvis estate has now filed a lawsuit against the host property, which is holding a large quantity of memorabilia, on loan from Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc., as collateral in its leasing dispute with management company Exhibit A Circle. In this latest move in the saga, the Elvis estate is asking the court to order the return of the items and is also seeking punitive damages.
"Knockout Night at the D," scheduled for this Saturday, March 12 at the Downtown Events Center and set to feature a card headlined by Zab Judah vs. Josh Torres, has been cancelled. In a statement, owner of the D and DTEV Derek Stevens described how in light of "multiple calls" from the Nevada Athletic Commission regarding "eligibility concerns," it became evident last night that the event could not go ahead. Stevens didn't elaborate on those "concerns" but stated his intention to work with the commission to bring future boxing events downtown. In the meantime, all tickets to Saturday's "Knockout Night" event will be reimbursed at point of purchase.
Further to our earlier tease, there are still no details of the 2016 Grand Opening, but TAO Beach has released details of an ongoing Thursday industry party, kicking off March 24. "Get Lei'd" will feature pool volleyball and a locals open bar from 2-3 p.m.
Le Dîner en Blanc, the exclusive high-end picnic event launched three decades ago in Paris, and which has since been attended by more than 100,000 foodies at exotic locations around the globe, is coming to Las Vegas on Sunday April 17. The specific location for the epicurian pop-up picnic will remain secret until the very last minute but tix are now available on a first come, first served basis and those who wish to attend are encouraged to register ASAP, as places are limited. Visit the official website for the voluminous rules of attending, which include not only dressing in white, but also bringing your own white tablecloth (and picnic, unless you wish to order one from the event) and to bag your spot.
Pool season is about to be unleashed (see previous post) but for now, most of the weekend's activities are of an indoor nature. Here are some of the highlights:
TAO Beach, the "toptional" (on weekdays) party pool at Venetian is open all afternoon today, giving a sneak preview of what's to come this summer. Details of the Season Grand Opening will follow soon, promises their Twitter, so stay tuned!
Today's the day for the annual 24-hour "Big Give" campaign, encouraging Nevadans to "give where they live" and show their support to an array of local causes, including popular Las Vegas institutions including the Neon, Mob, Discovery Children's, and Natural History museums, plus myriad other non-profits encompassing veterans' and senior support, child safety, animal welfare, and many other issues. The fundraiser runs until midnight and has already secured almost $250,000 in donations (bravo, Nevada!), which start at $10.
Kent Harman and Chef Mike Minor, a.k.a. Las Vegas' former "Border Grill Dreamtime," have announced a new joint project, with word that Bandito Latin Kitchen/Cantina is coming to E. Flamingo Rd., between Howard Hughes Pkwy and Paradise Rd. Slated to debut late 2016 or early 2017 the new restaurant will specialize in serving Minor’s signature take on Latin and Mexican dishes, including dishes like Burnt End Burritos (Oaxacan BBQ aioli, coleslaw, duck fat fries, Monterey Jack cheese), Smoked Chicken Enchiladas (Oaxacan string cheese, caramelized onions, mole Colorado, cotija cheese, crema), and Al Pastor Sopes (crispy corn masa, al pastor meat, guacamole, habanero pineapple salsa). The new venue will join Dog Haus, the gourmet hot dog brand out of California that recently announced its first Las Vegas restaurant, destined for the former Johnny Rockets location on Paradise Road, across from the Hard Rock.
As already announced, some major remodeling is underway at Caesars' original "Roman" (now "Julius") Tower (see Today's News 10/23/2015) and at Planet Hollywood (see Question of the Day 01/23/2016); now comes an official announcement that more than 4,800 rooms in total (approx. 20 percent of CET's Las Vegas room inventory) are to receive upgrades this year, with the Augustus Tower at Caesars, plus the rooms at Harrah's, also in line for a complete remodel. More than 900 rooms at three other of the company's regional casinos (Harrah’s Gulf Coast, Caesars Atlantic Cit,y and Horseshoe Tunica) will also receive comprehensive upgrade.
If you hadn't yet noticed, there's a transformation underway throughout the valley, as the Dotty's chain of slot parlors makes the necessary physical changes to comply with Gaming Control Board regulations governing unrestricted licensees. The venues are being closed down one by one for a few days as the machines are set into new bars that separate employees from customers and transform the joints into something more akin to neighborhood bars. How the chain will manage the restructuring of its revenue streams in order to earn more money from other areas than it does from gaming -- another condition of compliance -- still remains to be seen, however...
In this week's column Bob Dancer discusses the tightening of video poker machines (no, it's not just your imagination) and how to deal with it (because yes, there are still opportunities for advantage players to make money).
In a new post at Beyond Numbers, James Grosjean makes a compelling argument for what he says is feigned concern for problem gamblers by the casino industry. And for those looking for Bob Dancer's Tuesday column, a technical glitch will delay its posting until tomorrow. Our apologies for the latter.
The guest on this afternoon's episode of Gambling with an Edge on vegasallnetradio.com features as its guest gambling expert, author, and astrophysicist (yes, really) Olaf Vancura, who'll be discussing his best-selling card-counting strategy, Knock Out Blackjack (just released in its third edition), together with his upcoming book about slot machine myths, so tune in if you get the chance and if not, you can always check out the podcast later.
This Saturday, March 12, Silverton hosts the "The Great Garage & Antique Sale" from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Early Bird entry, from 6:30-8 a.m. is $5; otherwise admission is free). Non-Commercial (household and personal items) spaces are available for $50, while a limited number of commercial-vending spots can be had for $500 on a first come, first served basis. Thousands of attendees are expected for the event -- check the official website for more information.
Country music icons Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks, and Ronnie Dunn have added additional dates to their run at Caesars Palace, with new show dates announced for REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Vegas at The Colosseum from July 12 through July 30. Tickets, which start at $59.50 (inc. tax) go on sale Friday, March 11 at 10 a.m. PT.
Just ahead of the beginning of the new calendar year, Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning has confirmed -- as widely anticipated -- that he is to retire from the National Football League, after an 18-year career culminating in his second Super Bowl.
The mini-residency in House of Blues for veteran bad-boy rocker Billy Idol has been extended, with additional 2016 performance dates announced for August, Sept., and Oct., in addition to previously announced shows beginning March 16 through May 14. Tickets for the newly announced gigs go on sale Friday, March 11 at 10 a.m.
X107.5's "Our Big Concert" is set to return to Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan on Thursday, May 12, featurimg performances by Panic! At The Disco, Atlas Genius, Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness, BØRNS, and Andrew Watt. GA tix are $42.50 and go on sale Friday, March 11 at 10 a.m. PST cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000.
As was forewarned back in October of last year, when we tackled yet another QoD on the subject, we've heard from a reader that the Sigma Derby game at MGM Grand has broken down for its last time and is being dismantled. This leaves one sole example of the cult-classic mechanical horse racing game in town, namely the one upstairs at downtown's the D.
Reports have surfaced that the Palms is actively shopping for a buyer. The casino's owners have hired a top investment bank to test the market with tourism numbers on the rise.
Expect traffic snarls around today's NASCAR Kobalt 400 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The race starts at 12:30 p.m., which means I-15 will be jammed leading up to the race. The crowd will be letting out around 4 p.m. Avoid the area if you can.
The championship rounds of the USA Sevens rugby tournament are today at Sam Boyd Stadium, with play beginning at 9:30 a.m. The United States remains in contention and will play Fiji in one semi-final, while South Africa meets Australia in the other. The championship game will be aired on NBC Sports, with coverage starting at 3 p.m.
Connor McGregor is a -500 favorite over Nate Diaz in tonight's UFC main event. In the other featured match, Holly Holm is -300 over Miesha Tate.
On the other side of town, NASCAR's Boyd Gaming 300 runs at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway today at 1 p.m. The big race of the NASCAR Weekend is the Kobalt 400, which runs tomorrow at 12:30 p.m.
The USA Sevens rugby tournament runs today and tomorrow at Sam Boyd Stadium. Seven-a-side rugby will be an Olympic sport this year, so this tournament is considered an important tune-up and will showcase some of the world's top players. The action began at 10 a.m. and there are about 20 games today, but tickets aren't cheap, with the lowest listed on their website at $79 (plus "fees). In yesterday's play, the U.S. team went 1-0-1, beating Wales and tying Canada. Today's matches air at 4:30 p.m. PST on NBC Sports. Tomorrow's championship rounds begin at 9:30 a.m.
Earn 500 base slot points today and all future Fridays/Saturdays in March to receive entry into weekly cash drawings at Arizona Charlie's Boulder and Decatur. Drawings take place at 2:15 and 8:15 p.m., with five winners being drawn at each and a top prize of $2,500 cash. In addition, a final drawing will take place on Friday, April 1, where four winners are guaranteed to win $1,000 cash and one will have the chance to win the unclaimed prize money from previous drawings.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, Henderson's Cornerstone Park host the 13th annual Bark In the Park event for dogs and their owners, featuring demonstrations, informational and vendor booths, fun contests, and lots of dogs looking for their "forever" home. All pets must be leashed and handlers must be at least 10 years old; admission is free. Check out the official website for more information.
In more Mandalay Bay news, Las Vegas' original Border Grill restaurant there is launching a new patio dining series for the summer months, featuring a different themed event each month. Tickets for the first event, the Spring Break Clam Bake which takes place on March 21 and will feature a giant bonfire on the patio, are $97 and can be purchased by calling the venue at (702) 632-7403 or visiting bordergrill.com. Ticket information for future events, which include Farm Fresh on April 22 (featuring local farmers and dishes created using their ingredients) and Tours of Tequilas on May 19, will be released soon. Sounds like fun!
On March 21, the Original Santana Band, featuring the lineup that played Woodstock, will reunite on stage at House of Blues at Mandalay Bay for a one-night-only TV special. For the first time since 1973, the Carlos Santana (guitar, vocals), Gregg Rolie (keyboards, lead vocals), Neal Schon (guitar, vocals, who joined shortly after the historic music festival), Michael Carabello (percussion), and Michael Shrieve (drums), will reunite on stage for a concert to be filmed for television and DVD release, featuring material from the group's first three albums, plus a preview of their new studio album, Santana IV. Tickets, which are standing only and are all priced at just $29.50 (plus tax and fees), go on sale tomorrow, Saturday, March 5, at 10 a.m. (Guests must be 18+ years of age with a valid photo ID to attend.)
First Friday food art, Flatts, funnies, 'n fightin' is what it's all about this weekend, plus a big eclectic dose of music.
This being NASCAR Weekend (see today's Question of the Day), there are plenty of associated happenings around town, including a meet and greet with Hall-of-Famer "The King" Richard Petty tomorrow evening from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the new race and sports book at The Cosmopolitan (located in the east tower). The event is free to attend.
California-based gourmet hot dog concept Dog Haus is to debut its first Nevada location on Friday, March 18, and will be wooing locals with the offer of a complimentary Haus Dog from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on opening day (guests will be able to choose from a selection of Dog Haus’ seven hot dog creations, which feature all-beef skinless dogs served up on grilled Hawaiian rolls). The new restaurant is located across from the Hard Rock in the space previously occupied by Johnny Rockets (4480 Paradise Rd.), which features an outdoor patio and indoor flat-screen TVs, and will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. serving a variety of sliders, corn dogs, and booze (wine, draft and canned beers, and liquor) in addition to their signature dogs.
The much-anticipated Swedish home-furnishing store currently under construction at Durango and Sunset, just north of the 215 Beltway, is set to debut May 18 it's been announced. The 351,000-square-foot retail outlet -- IKEA's 42 location in the U.S. -- will also feature a 450-seat restaurant and a supervised play area for kids.
Commencing this weekend, Mystère, Cirque du Soleil's original Las Vegas spectacular that performs at Treasure Island, invites the public to attend a free open rehearsal of the show each Saturday (from 3-3:45 p.m.) and Sunday (5-5:30 p.m.). Guests who attend the free experience will also have the chance to purchase a pair of tickets for the discounted rate of $99 upon presenting their special voucher from the open rehearsal at the box office. All ages are welcome to attend; fr more information call the box office at 702-894-7722.
Although the recent closing of Jubilee! removed a long-running back-of-house experience from Las Vegas' entertainment offerings, we discovered in the course of answering a Question of the Day last February that there are numerous opportunities to go behind the scenes in Las Vegas during the course of the year, from production shows like Blue Man Group, Elton John's Million Dollar Piano, and Le Rêve (which also offers a scuba diving experience!) to "open" kitchen events hosted by celebrity chefs and backstage tours of the Bellagio Fountains, Shark Reef, The Tank at the Golden Nugget, and Silverton's famous aquarium, so check it out!
In other Strip property news, James Packer's fifth attempt to crack the US casino market is officially on hold, thanks to Crown's current inability to realize its plan to raise half of the $2 billion price tag in U.S. debt. Alon, which early renderings depict as a two-tower resort-casino on the former site of the New Frontier, had been slated to open in 2018, but this now seems unlikely. Packer's earlier attempts at gaining a foothold in Las Vegas have been notoriously disastrous, including taking a big (as in $737 million) hit on his Fontainebleau investment, but the Australian casino mogul remains determined, commenting back in August, 2014 "You can’t be in the gaming industry and not have a special reverence for Las Vegas."
Although neither of the parties involved has yet officially confirmed the transaction, according to a Wednesday story by Real Estate Alert, MGM Resorts International and Dubai World -- its partner in CityCenter -- has sold the high-end retail mall at the complex, Crystals, to Simon Property Partnership for $1.13 billion. The move would be in line with earlier statements from MRI about selling off non-core assets; Simon Property already owns and operates the Forum Shops at Caesars, plus Las Vegas South and Las Vegas North Premium Outlets.
In an interesting and pioneering move, The D Las Vegas has announced a deal with Dan Coughlin's restaurants Le Thai and Bocho Downtown Sushi, both located on Fremont East, that enables members of the Club D Rewards player-loyalty program to redeem comp dollars toward meals at the two eateries.
The award-winning singer and musician, who enjoyed an extended run at the Stratosphere with his 10-piece band, is headed to Planet Hollywood. His new show, Frankie Moreno - UNDER THE INFLUENCE will make its debut at the PH Showroom Wednesday, April 20, 2016. Show times are Tuesdays-Sundays 9 p.m., tickets go on sale Wednesday at 10 a.m. and range from $33-$88.
Mötley Crüe (sham?)rocker Vince Neil, who's currently a contestant on NBC’s "Celebrity Apprentice," is to host a St. Patrick’s Day party on Thursday, March 17, at Paris Las Vegas' new Beer Park, which will be adding green beer to its usual roster of 100+ brews and serving Irish-inspired (note the "inspired" qualifier) food specials, including a corned beef hash burrito ($9.95).
As reported by the LA Times, following the end-of-year hike that saw resort fees raised (and, in many instances, the "amenities" they cover reduced), Caesars Entertainment has now followed the precedent set by MGM Resorts and upped the nightly charge at its higher-end Strip properties to $32/night (plus 12% tax). The change came into effect on Tuesday of this week and applies to Caesars Palace, Nobu, the Cromwell, Paris, and Planet Hollywood, apparently. We will be checking with each of these properties to ascertain whether the amenity package covered by the fee has been altered in any way. Stay tuned!
It never ceases to surprise us how our Las Vegas Webcam page is among the most-visited on our site (although that could be attributable to the Little Darlings totally-nude stage cam, perhaps?) Anyhow, we were just informed by a reader that the popular "Welcome Sign" live-streaming camera is currently down and we know not why, but we put a call in to Earthcam, so hopefully an explanation -- and a fix -- will be forthcoming soon.
Now that both properties are under the ownership of Penn National, we can likely expect more joint announcements; the latest concerns pool season and the fact that both the renamed Tropicana Las Vegas Resort Pool and M Resort Pool (no longer known as Villagio del Sole) will be open to locals. The Trop pool is set to open Friday, March 11, and will be free to locals (with valid ID) before 1 p.m. Mon-Thurs (after 1 p.m. a modest $5 cover fee will apply); on weekends and holidays, locals will be $10 all day, while non-locals may also gain access for $10 during the week and $20 on weekends. The same pricing structure will apply at M's main pool, which is set to open March 25, except that Fridays will feature the same discounted admission rate for locals and out-of-towners as applies Mon-Thurs.
The Whole Foods Market has opened a new restaurant and bar within its Town Square location. LVBar specializes in small plates, burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, and sushi and serves wine by the glass and beer by the bottle. There's a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4- 6 p.m. featuring $6 glasses of select wine, a $5 "pint of the day" and select food items from $5 to $7.
Our video poker expert's latest column has been posted and it's an arcane one this week, discussing the play nuances between 9/6 Bonus Poker Deluxe and 9/6 Jacks or Better (and being judicious regarding from whom you choose to take strategy advice). Should this topic pique your interest, Bob Dancer's free video poker class this week at South Point will feature 9/6 Bonus Poker Deluxe, with a beginner class starting at noon, followed by an intermediate class at 2 p.m.; both take place in the Grandview Lounge. (BPD is a 99.64%-return game available at South Point in denominations between 25 cents and $1 Ten Play.)
In addition, the guest on today's episode of Gambling With an Edge, co-hosted by Bob Dancer and Richard Munchkin, is gambling attorney Bob Nersesian, who'll be discussing his new book, The Law for Gamblers, which was the subject of a feature in yesterday's New York Post.
Having last month launched a revamped version of her show at Planet Hollywood, now extended through 2017, Britney Spears has announced the next tranche of performances for Piece of Me. Tickets for dates beginning Friday, June 16 and running through Saturday, Sept. 10, go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. PT on Friday, March 4.