Tonight's episode of "CSI" has more actual "Vegas" than normal, although we'd be hard pressed to call it real Vegas. The Golden Nugget's pool is the primary location for tonight's story, which features a cameo performance by Peepshow star Holly Madison. If you want a sneak peak of the action, check out spoilertv.com (the episode title, "Shark Pool," is a bit of a giveaway in itself). The show airs on CBS at 9 p.m.
Gossip columnist Robin Leach just reported via his Twitter, @Robin_Leach, that Las Vegas-based tennis stars Andre Agassi and Stephi Graf are suing the managers of Pure Nightclub, in which they are part-owners, claiming they mismanaged finances and used the nightclub's money to fund competing venues. This comes in the wake earlier this week of the announcement that Pure Management Group has sold all nine of its Las Vegas properties to Angel Management Group.
The 10th Annual Las Vegas Bike Fest coincides with Mario Barth's Biggest Tattoo Show on Earth, so expect a lot of ink in town this weekend, and some wet t-shirts. Just warning you...
Luxor executive Gene Kilroy, a long-time friend of actor Tony Curtis, who passed away at his Las Vegas home last night, has told the AP that a public funeral and burial will be held 11 a.m. Monday at Palm Mortuary & Cemetery in Green Valley. A reception will be held afterward at the Luxor.
A new free featured thread -- "Alf M's College and Pro Football Week #4 -- just went live at LVASports.com. Plus, look out for the next "Fezzik Friday" feature in tomorrow's QoD.
If you're not on any of our mailing lists* you might not have heard about the amazing pre-order offer on on our new dining guide, Eating Las Vegas. Compiled by the city's top three food critics, this one-of-a-kind guide book picks out the Top 50 Essential Restaurants, including the Top 10, plus contains the authors' picks of the best sushi, pizza, dessert, cocktails etc., plus a handy guide to Chinatown. But it's definitely not your typical restaurant guide -- it's also really entertaining, not least because the three authors have trouble agreeing on anything. These books are selling like hot cakes and now through Oct. 15 only, we're offering Eating Las Vegas for 50%-off the cover price (plus only $2 shipping) -- a total of just $8.50! So, don't miss out.
*We offer a number of different email lists you can sign up for to receive our popular Question of the Day feature, plus special offers, news alerts, and more. Click the link to see the different mailing lists you can sign up for, all of which you can unsubscribe from at any time.
As many as 30,000 bikers and enthusiasts from across the country are expected in Las Vegas starting today for the 10th annual Harley Davidson Las Vegas BikeFest, which runs through Sunday. The event includes live music, food, beverages, a Motorclothes parking lot sale, motorcycle displays and demos, a wet T-shirt contest, and more. Click the link for details.
Today's the last day to save 50 percent off local adult admission to the Springs Preserve attraction. Use coupon code TWTR0910 at the online box office.
Robin Leach reports that female impressionist Frank Marino's been given the go-ahead by doctors to return to his Divas Las Vegas show at Imperial Palace, following health complications last week stemming from a gall bladder op. Tonight will be a belated celebration of his 25th anniversary performing on the Strip. Click here for the current best Las Vegas show deals.
Olympia Gaming of Las Vegas will today request the Sparks Planning Commission for a special-use permit to begin the planning process for the hotel-casino at the Legends at Sparks Marina shopping center, which opened last June. The casino element of the project that's been on hold due to the recession.
Pre-sale tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. this morning for Rod Stewart's gigs at Caesars' Colosseum this November. Click here for the Ticketmaster site and enter password: RSHET10. The code's good for 36 hours.
Actor Tony Curtis, a long-time Las Vegas resident famous for his roles in movies including Some Like It Hot, and father of actress Jamie Lee-Curtis, died last night at his home of cardiac arrest at age 85.
The BBC reports that travel site TripAdvisor.com is being sued by up to 700 hotels who complain they are victims of unfair reviews unpoliced by the website. We can confirm that we read every single review posted on our site and remove any that don't smell right; while the BBC reports that the norm is for people to post negative reviews, we actually find the opposite and are impressed by the thoughtful candor and general positivity that our readers put into their reviews -- here's a recent example about Sunset Station. Bravo! And keep 'em coming -- it's such an invaluable resource for everyone and you can post a review and rating about just about everything listed on our site, including hotels, restaurants, buffets, nightclubs, limo and taxi services, wedding chapels, poker tournaments, and more!
MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren confirmed today that the Borgata in Atlantic City is among the assets the company will sell in order to reduce its $13 billion in long-term debt. This has long been known, since objection from Gaming Control to the company's business dealings with the controversial Ho family in Asia is prompting them to exit the New Jersey Market. According to Forbes, an upcoming IPO in Macau is expected to bring in an additional $500 million for MRI.
Golden Gaming's Golden Route Operations is to launch a new combined slot players club in October for the Gold Spike and Siegel Slots & Suites. The club is planned to launch Friday, Oct. 1 at the Gold Spike and mid-October at Siegel Slots & Suites.
Michael Konik, best-selling author of The Man with the $100,000 Breasts, Telling Lies and Getting Paid, and Ella in Europe, will be in Las Vegas this weekend promoting his controversial new Huntington Press title, Reefer Gladness: Stories, Essays, and Riffs on Marijuana. On Friday morning, you can catch him at 10 a.m. on KNPR's "State of Nevada", followed by a 7 p.m. book signing at the Bluebird Coffee Shop (2025 Paradise Rd.), the only venue in the valley that can boast a plush lounge for card-carrying medical marijuana users to safely and comfortably smoke together. The signing is open to the public and will continue until 10 p.m. as part of First Friday.
On Saturday, Oct. 2 there will be a more conventional signing at the Borders Bookstore in Summerlin (10950 W. Charleston Blvd.) at 4:20 p.m.
The Light Group is auditioning for dancers tomorrow, Thursday Sept. 30, from 3-5 p.m. at JET Nightclub inside the Mirage.
This Friday, Oct. 1, Crazy Horse III gentlemen's club, part of The Playground entertainment complex, will celebrate its first anniversary with a performance by Heather Chadwell of "Rock of Love." For the full lowdown on the Las Vegas strip club scene, check out the new Topless Vegas Pocket Guide, available from ShopLVA.com.
In order to bring attention to Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Thursday's issue of the Las Vegas Review-Journal will be printed on pink newsprint, and every news section will include stories about breast cancer.
The auction of what's described as $10-$18 million-worth of 5-star hotel inventory from Fontainebleau that we reported yesterday takes Oct. 6, with an on-site viewing on Oct. 5; thanks to the LVA reader who provided us with this link to the website of Heritage Global Partners, the auctioneers handling the sale, which will be webcast worldwide from 10 a.m. PST today.
Angel Management Group, the event company that emerged as a growing presence in the Las Vegas nightlife/daylife scene this year, today announced an agreement to acquire hospitality conglomerate Pure Management Group (PMG). On conclusion of the transaction, Angel will assume operation of all nine PMG entities, including PURE Nightclub at Caesars Palace, LAX Nightclub at Luxor, and Social House restaurant at Crystals at CityCenter, all of which are already listed on Angel Management Group's website.
Flamingo Road has been closed in both directions between Lindell and Solteros due to a serious accident. [This item posted at 3 p.m.]
Chef André Rochat is showcasing a six-course meatless tasting menu at Alizé, the French restaurant at the top of the Palms, for National Vegetarian Month, which kicks off October 1. The special menu is priced at $55 per person and $5 of every vegetarian tasting menu purchased will be donated to Nevada Cancer Institute.
Mandalay Bay is offering a promotion that combines an upgraded ticket to Disney's the Lion King (reg. price $86, plus tax/fees), and an adult entry to the Shark Reef attraction ($16.95) for a combined price of $90 per ticket. To take advantage of the ongoing offer, visit any MGM Resorts International box office or concierge desk, or call 702/632-7580.
The Travel section of today's USA Today includes a feature about the great deals currently available at many Las Vegas buffets. Publisher Anthony Curtis is quoted, recommending that the Harrah's "Buffet of Buffets" pass is a great way to "graze" and sample a variety of different venues and meals.
Rod Stewart will perform eight shows between Nov. 6 and 21 at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, and hinted in a statement that he was testing the waters with a view to a possible longer engagement. Tickets for the shows start at $69 and are available from the box office and from all Ticketmaster outlets.
Low-cost airline Allegiant has today announced a new, nonstop jet service between Bakersfield, Calif., and Las Vegas that will begin Nov. 17, with introductory fares as low as $29.99 one-way.
The new flights will operate three times weekly between Meadows Field Airport and McCarran, with service Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday. The introductory fares are not available on all flights and seats must be purchased by Oct. 20, 2010 for travel through March 8, 2011. More information can be found on the airline's website.
The singer's September 11 show at the Joint at the Hard Rock, which was postponed at the last minute due to illness, has been rescheduled for November 14. Tickets for the Sept. show will be valid for the new date, or refunds can be requested at point of purchase. .
The New York Post reports that billionaire investor Carl Icahn is holding a fire sale at the unfinished Strip resort-casino, which is 70 percent complete. Apparently, beds, dressers, TVs, and other furnishings are being sold off -- further evidence that Icahn is looking to flip the property when the market picks up, rather than complete and operate it.
Vegas the Show, the historical musical comedy currently performing downtown at Vegas Rocks Café (not to be confused with Vegas the Show!, currently performing in the David Saxe Theater in the Miracle Mile Shops), is offering free tickets to the first 25 people who turn up. The show performs Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The Tropicana location of Metro Pizza is offering 50%-off all dine-in pies tonight for Monday Night Football.
Maryland's first casino debuted today, nearly two years after voters approved a constitutional amendment legalizing slot machines. The Hollywood Casino is located in Perryville, about 40 miles north of Baltimore, next to Interstate 95.
The Hollywood rumormill reports that Steve Carell, star of "The Office," in which he's about to conclude his role, will play a Las Vegas magician in his next big-screen role. Burt Wonderstone's a comedy about a Las Vegas-based magician who kills his partner by accident and now has to regain his confidence in order to compete with a young "extreme magic" rival. We'll keep you posted as we hear more.
The Palms is still looking for cocktail servers and will be hosting another recruiting event today in the Lounge from 4-6 p.m. Please bring current head full-length shots, if available.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has announced that it will hire 5,000 staff ahead of its Dec. 15 opening and is hosting a virtual career fair tomorrow, Sept. 28, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., which will allow applicants to speak with recruiters online. Job candidates can register at the Cosmopolitan's website, where you'll be asked to provide details of your employment history; you don't have to upload a resume, however.
The online gambling giant is seeking a regional managing director for its Asian facing licensee, Bodog88, which is based and fully licensed in Manila. According to the press release, the job comes with a package that "will give you the sort of lifestyle rock stars dream of." Interested parties should send a resume and covering letter to: [email protected].
It's been revealed that TAO's latest nightclub, debuting at Cosmpolitan this December, will be called
Southwest Airlines is purchasing fellow discount airline AirTran for $1.42 billion, which will introduce Southwest to 37 new cities, the largest of which is Atlanta, and give it a bigger presence in cities like Boston and New York. Southwest has also said that it will drop Airtran's baggage fees when the two companies fully combine in 2012. AirTran currently charges $20 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second.
A customer who stayed at Vdara is claiming that the reflection of the sun off the hotel glass into the pool area produced a beam so hot that it scorched his hair (and partially melted a plastic bag). The phenomenon is clandestinely referred to as the "Vdara death ray," though management says it prefers "hot spot" or "solar convergence." Natch!
Get a 2-for-1 lunch or dinner buffet at Silverton every day until the end of the month. All you need to do is show your Discovery Club card.
The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens unveils its autumn display today, with a harvest tableau that will be featured until Nov. 27. The exhibit is free to all to enjoy.
Anthony Curtis, LasVegasAdvisor.com, Huntington Press, and its authors have been receiving a lot of media attention recently; check out all the latest press at LVA in the Media.
The ever-popular "Pawn Stars" show on History Channel is holding a contest to design a t-shirt for Chumlee. Click the link for more information -- his favorite design wins $250.
Today until 6 p.m., and again from noon to 6 p.m., NBC's "The Marriage Ref" will be holding open auditions in the Extra Lounge at Planet Hollywood.
With the worst of the summer swelter behind us, there are more outdoor activities on the calendar. Today the Springs Preserve hosts an Asian Moon Festival from noon to 6 p.m. The event will feature arts, crafts, food, and entertainment, including drummers, lion dance performances, and storytellers. Admission to the event is free and includes access to all galleries and exhibits.
The annual west-side arts and crafts fair takes place today and tomorrow from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at 1800 S. Town Center Dr. (between Charleston and W. Sahara Ave.), featuring more than more than 100 artists.
Operation Medicine Cabinet takes place today from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Galleria at Sunset Mall. Dispose of your old or unused medications safely.
There are less than two and half hours remaining in our Fall Clearance Sale at ShopLVA.com - don't miss out!
An LVA customer just called (10:20 a.m.) to inform us that the Bellagio and Aria online reservations systems are currently undergoing maintenance, so for now book by phone at 888/987-3456 or 866/359-7757, respectively, to book rooms at either property. For the best deals at many Strip properties right now, however, check out the current available LVA discount codes.
Daily Fiasco reports that History Channel's popular "Pawn Stars" reality show, filmed in a real Las Vegas pawn broker downtown, is spawning a spin-off starring Rick Dale, the store's go-to restoration expert. "Rusty Nuts" premieres Oct. 18 at 9 p.m.
As of Thursday, the Royal Resort Theater is no more, we've just been informed. All of the shows that were previously performing there are in search of new homes, but for the time being Dixie Dooley, Remembering Redd, Vegas Mob Tour, Haunted Vegas Tour, et al are dark. The latter two have discount coupons in the 2010 MRB; we'll let you know if/when they become valid again in due course.
Numb cocktail bar, which already has a location in Caesars Palace, debuts a sister venue at Harrah's today. It features a mixology bar and specializes in frozen cocktails.
Today marks the start of the 38th annual Las Vegas Greek Food Festival. Hosted by the St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (5300 South El Camino), the three-day festivities get underway at 3 p.m. today and admission's $6 for adults (children under 12 are free). Click the link for more information, including details about parking and shuttles and a map of the festival layout.
If you haven't already checked out our big Fall Clearance Sale at ShopLVA.com don't delay, because many of the current discounts end at 5 p.m. PST today. There are all kinds of amazing deals in the Bargain Bin, from top poker titles to mob memoirs, and guide books to Vegas history. You'll find lots of great ideas if you want to get an affordable jumpstart on the holidays, too.
From biking to baking, comedy to classic cars, and muscles to moussaka, there's all kinds of stuff going down in Sin City this weekend. Here are just some of the highlights:
Hash House A Go Go, about to launch its third venue in the Valley, turns five today and is celebrating with a smorgasbord of food and drink specials, including offering their one-pound stuffed burgers for $5 all day, plus 5-cent beer and free appetizers from 5-6 p.m. this evening at the original location at 6800 W. Sahara Ave.
It's just been confirmed that Frank Marino will not be hosting Divas at the IP tonight, but the show will go on without him. The performer is suffering from complications stemming from gall bladder surgery performed a couple of weeks ago.
"Fox 5 News" reports that Hard Rock Café International is suing the owners and operators of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, and other users of the Hard Rock name, in an attempt to terminate licensing deals that they claim are damaging the brand's good name. If the lawsuit's successful, the resort-casino could be forced to change its name and re-brand.
While the lawsuit doesn't mention any specifics, it's been reported that the "Rehab" series on TruTV, which follows the exploits of staff and guests at the notorious pool party at which a patron recently drowned, is a major factor in the suit.
Tonight marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of female impersonator Frank Marino's career on the Las Vegas Strip, but the celebrations may be muted due to health reasons. We're not sure what the problem is, but understand from gossip columnist Robin Leach that Marino's currently undergoing an MRI. The IP, home to Divas Las Vegas, confirmed that they still expect the star of the show to perform tonight, although understudies may take some of his roles; Robin Leach indicated that Marino would not be in costume but would be there to celebrate with cake and champagne. We'll keep you posted if we hear more.
The Cloud Nine helium balloon, grounded since high winds destroyed it in March, is set to conduct a test flight today and resume its regular schedule by this weekend, according to today's LV Sun. The attraction, which takes riders 500 feet above the Strip for a one-of-a-kind view and photo opportunity, operates daily from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (midnight on weekends) and flights start at $22.50. Don't forget there's a twofer/50%-off coupon in the 2010 MRB.
Overnight tonight a new barrier wall will be installed to separate airport and commuter traffic in the vicinity of McCarran International Airport and beginning Friday morning, all non-airport traffic must utilize the designated Airport Bypass lanes located on the right (east) side of the northbound tunnel. Click here for more details and an aerial map explaining the new configuration.
Today through Saturday sees the third annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction at Mandalay Bay, featuring hundreds of exotic vehicles, including 10 owned by the late Danny Gans.
At 1:30 p.m. local time today, Philadelphia is set to become the largest city in the U.S. with a casino, with the debut of the new SugarHouse on the Delaware River waterfront. It's been six years since the state Legislature legalized gambling and today's opening gives Pennsylvania its 10th casino, despite years of community protests and delays.
The eco-friendly attraction is offering a discount to Twitter followers through the end of the month -- get 50% off the price of an adult admission when you enter the code TWTR0910 at the @SpringsPreserve online box office.
"Mr Las Vegas" Wayne Newton, who's had well-publicized financial problems recently, is meeting resistance from neighbours over plans to turn his Casa de Shenandoah home into a tourist attraction that would feature shuttle bus tours to and from the 38-acre ranch. Apparently, a crowd of 200 turned out for a neighborhood meeting this week and all were opposed to the project, fearing its impact on traffic in the area.
The legendary guitarist has announced additional dates for his ongoing residency at The Joint at the Hard Rock, with shows added for April 20-May 1. Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits performs Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $51 and may be purchased from the Hard Rock box office and all Ticketmaster outlets.
Last night saw the premiere of the new attorney-based drama series, "The Defenders," starring Jim Belushi and Jerry O'Connell, who play the roles of real-life Las Vegas attorneys Michael Cristalli and Marc Saggese. The show airs Wednesday at 10 p.m. on CBS and apparently old-time Italian restaurant Piero's is a heavily featured real location in the series.
Last month we reviewed the David Perrico Group in LVA. It's an excellent collaboration between Marley Taylor from Zowie Bowie and Perrico, who's the lead trumpet and featured soloist in Viva Elvis! at Aria. The group plays tonight in the Celebration Lounge at the Tropicana from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. It's the first of an ongoing Wednesday gig. Check it out.
The monthly downtown arts fest is currently interviewing for general labor positions. Email [email protected] for details.
Following their recent divorce settlement, Steve Wynn's ex-wife is among the 16 newcomers to this year's Forbes magazine's list of the 400 wealthiest Americans. To make the grade this year, a person must be worth at least one billion dollars; the list is topped for the 17th consecutive year by Bill Gates, whose estimated worth is $54 billion. According to the list, casino owner Sheldon Adelson was one of the year's biggest gainers financially and is now the 13th richest American; Kirk Kerkorian comes in at #119; Steve Wynn's #205 with a net worth of $1.9 billion.
In honor of Vegetarian Awareness Month, Origin India is offering 20% off their extensive menu of veggie dishes throughout September. For more suggestions of vegetarian/vegan-friendly restaurants in Las Vegas, click the green button in our Dining section.
If you didn't receive an email from us, please be advised that we just launched a big Fall Sale at ShopLVA.com, where you'll find all kinds of top gambling how-tos, Vegas guides, and general interest titles at knock-down prices in the Bargain Bin, now through the end of this week. For anyone who experienced any previous problems with a shipping-rate glitch, please be advised that this has now been fixed; we apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced and encourage you to revisit our online store while this limited-duration sale is still in effect.
The Academy of Country Music has named Green Valley Ranch, home of the monthly Nashville Unplugged event, Casino of the Year. It's the fourth such award for a Station property but the first for GVR.
Vegas and "CSI" fans take note: While much of the hit TV series is filmed in studios, next Thursday's episode features scenes filmed at the Golden Nugget downtown, where filming took place over the span of three days. The show airs on CBS on Sept. 30 at 9 p.m. EST.
We understand that Cher has announced that the date of her final show in Las Vegas will be Feb. 5, 2011. Tickets for this last performance at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace are due to go on sale this Saturday, Sept. 25.
Angel Management Group, the daylife/nightlife company that currently manages brands including Wet Republic, Studio 54, and Tabu Ultra Lounge at MGM Grand, Rehab at the Hard Rock, and Moorea Beach at Mandalay Bay, has just announced that it's now also taken over Vanity nightclub at the Hard Rock.
Today's LV Sun reports that Dolce Hotels and Resorts has been chosen by owners Village Hospitality LLC to rebrand and manage the Ritz-Carlton hotel at Lake Las Vegas, which has been closed since May. Dolce specializes in hosting meetings, weddings, and other social events. The property's due to reopen in the first quarter of 2011.
We just posted a new free Thread of the Week at LVASports.com, so check it out, and while you're there get up to speed on all the latest football-party and contest info, which we're updating on a daily basis.
Singapore's two recently opened casinos have apparently attracted up to one million Singaporeans during their first seven months in operation, in spite of an entrance fee imposed on locals that's aimed at detering them from gambling. Tourists are exempt from the cover, which was introduced at the instigation of church and civic groups concerned at the potential social impact of Asia's newest gaming market.
Back by popular demand, the iconic singer/songwriter returns to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace this December 10 and 11 as the finale to his his current world tour. Tickets which start at $49.50, go on sale Saturday, September 25 at 10 a.m. and are available from the Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets.
Did you vote in our current Reader Poll about your favorite off-Strip, non-casino restaurants? If not, be sure to get your vote in today, as it closes at midnight tonight. The results so far are very interesting and not what we would necessarily have expected... They'll go live for all to see on Saturday.
U.K.-based Internet gambling company Sportingbet Plc, has agreed to forfeit $33 million in illegal gambling proceeds earned from U.S. customers and, as part of a non-prosecution agreement, will maintain a permanent restriction on providing online gambling services to U.S. customers.
The annual comedy festival that used to take over The Colosseum at Caesars may have been a victim of the recession, but there's a much smaller and more intimate affair taking place this week at Alexis Park. The festival, featuring 101 comedians, will have peformances today through Sept. 25, with performances at 6 p.m., 8 p.m., and 10 p.m. and each show features eight comics, who the audience has the chance to vote on to see who advances to the next round. Tickets start at $9.95 (plus fee) -- visit worldseriesofcomedy.com for more information and to purchase tickets.
Satay Las Vegas is celebrating Monday Night Football today by offering a complimentary espresso, Boba tea, or Singha beer all day to anyone who ReTweets their Tweet promising same -- follow at @sataylasvegas for this and other daily offers.
The latest figures from the Department of Employment, Training & Rehabilitation reveal that Nevada has retained the unwelcome mantle it earned back in May, when it toppled Michigan from the top of the list of states with the highest unemployment rates. Although jobs were added last month in several sectors, including restaurants and construction, the loss of temporary Census and other public-sector positions led to a net decline in hiring that pushed statewide unemployment to the record level of 14.4 percent, up almost 2 percent on the same month last year.
As predicted, Paris Hilton pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor chargest his morning, stemming from her Aug. 31 arrest for cocaine possession and received a year's probation. Judge Joseph Bonaventure warned the heiress that any arrest during the probationary period would result in a one-year prison sentence and that the "Clark County Detention Center is not the Waldorf-Astoria."
Palm Springs has unveiled an aggressive new ad campaign that pokes fun at Las Vegas clichés, with tag lines like, "Getting high means something completely different to us," framed against a shot of a Palm Springs Aerial Tramway car ascending in front of Mount San Jacinto, "The Rat Pack came here, too, to get away from all the crazy people," and, "They have Wayne Newton. We don't."
Boardwalk Empire, the new HBO series about the prohibition era in Atlantic City, is set long before gambling was legalized there; however, it figures to incorporate plenty of gambling scenarios. The bootleggers were often connected to illegal gambling and the two activities flourished together. Boardwalk Empire debuts tonight.
Station Casinos is holding a system-wide blackjack tournament with $200,000 in prize money. Qualify by earning 1,000 table-games points between now and Oct. 17 (earn points by showing your Boarding Pass card when you play). Qualifiers will play in satellite tournaments with the top 16 advancing to the finals Nov. 12-13. You can also buy into the satellites for $250.
The Palms is hiring cocktail servers Monday at an open call from 4-6 p.m. in the Lounge. Bring head and full-length shots, if available.
After making so many "10 Great Places" lists in USA Today, Las Vegas was surprisingly absent from this weekend's "10 Great Places to See the Sites -- Free." There are more free things to do in Las Vegas than anyplace else. Interesting omission.
The Kats Report in today's LV Sun reports that this coming Wednesday, Liberace fans opposed to the announced Oct. 17 closure of his museum here in town will stage a protest outside the venue, demanding the ousting of both the Chairman and President of the Liberace Foundation. Click the link for more information in an effort to save the attraction.
Visit the Playboy store in the Forum Shops at Caesars from 1-4 p.m. today for a chance to meet Miss October, Claire Sinclair, who'll be in-store signing autographs.
Come out on Sunday morning for a free 90-minute outdoor yoga experience at the new Rumor resort, opposite the Hard Rock. No reservations required but the session starts at 10 a.m. sharp. If you haven't already, it's a good excuse to check out this new boutique hotel, which has really tranquil grounds and a nice pool area, with hammocks.
Ex-Bay City Roller/Rabbitt singer-songwriter Duncan Faure performs for free tonight, and every Friday in October, at the Arts FActory downtown (107. E. Charleston). After the gig, which runs from 6-8 p.m., there's a free screening of movie classic La Dolce Vita.
Heiress and socialite Paris Hilton has agreed to plead guilty Monday to two misdemeanor drug charges in order to avoid a possible felony conviction and prison time. If she's arrested anytime during the probation period, Hilton will have to serve a full year in prison.
Tomorrow and Sunday from 4-7 p.m. are the last hiring sessions for the Halloween Fright Dome at Circus Circus. Must be 18+ to apply. Bring a valid government-issued ID and your social security card to the Adventuredome either day this weekend.
As reported in today's LV Sun, there's been a major upheaval in the Wynn/Encore nightlife scene of late. The most high-profile move was the firing of Paris Hilton's boyfriend Cy Waits, following his August DUI bust outside Wynn. He'd previously been managing partner of Tryst nightclub at Wynn and XS at Encore. Waits' dismissal came just days after Wynn severed his partnership with long-time Vegas nightclub impresario Victor Drai, who owned a third each of the two clubs and had been instrumental in their design and management.
Last week a company spokesperson confirmed that Encore Beach Club and Surrender nightclub managing partner Bob Mancari was no longer with the company. Now comes word that David Pappas and Larry Murphy, both part of the Las Vegas Nightlife Group, which operates Blush, Surrender, and Encore Beach Club, are also out. No word as yet as to whether this series of departures heralds any deeper changes in the Wynn nightlife scene.
We continue to add details of more football parties (it's busier than ever this year!), with Anthony Curtis' first-hand reports, plus new team bars, contest updates, and more, so check out all the free content at LVASports.com.
According to newly released figures from the Nevada State Gaming Control Board, the statewide gaming take in July was down almost 5 percent on the same month last year. Mesquite and North Lake Tahoe were the only two submarkets to show an increase for the month; the take for the Strip was flat at $461.3 million.
Anthony Curtis just posted his second Las Vegas Football Update at LVASports.com, with lots of tips and updates, so check it out.
As reported in Mike Weatherford's column in today's R-J, the Riviera Comedy Club is set to close on Halloween, at least in its current incarnation as a hotel-run operation.
It's a weekend of music and mirth, particularly the latter, with an avalanche of funny people bringing their talents to various stages across town, plus the annual downtown music festival. Here are the highlights:
The Business section of today's Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that the World Market Center home interior showcase has defaulted on debts for two of its towers to the tune of $564.7 million and has in fact been in default since April, although management denies that foreclosure proceedings are underway.
In celebration of the ongoing Mexican Independece Day celebrations around town (see our feature in Spotlight), Dos Caminos at The Palazzo is sharing the recipe for its popular guacamole (today also happens to be National Guacamole Day). Log on to their Facebook for the details.
Mississippi-born singer Michael Grimm, who already performs regularly at various locals properties around the valley in his new home-town of Las Vegas, was the surprise winner of last night's "America's Got Talent" final, winning himself a major Strip gig with a contract to perform at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and $1 million. His winning performance was a duet on Me & Bobby McGee performed with Jewel.
An interesting article in today's Las Vegas Sun quotes a study recently conducted by UNLV's Center for Gaming Research, which concluded that Las Vegas casinos have been slow to adopt social networking tool Twitter and are not using it regularly. Exceptions to the rule include Casino Royale, which on average tweets nearly 16 times daily. Interestingly, the Luxor was the first casino to open a Twitter account, followed by MGM Grand, which is always in the forefront of technological advances like mobile technology and Web design.
The study's results surprise us somewhat, as our own @LVA_Tweet list of Las Vegas Hotels & Casinos follows no less than 63 Twitter accounts, which we find to be a mine of useful information and special offers. We have four additional Twitters ourselves, too, for different projects: @SinCityAdvisor for adult-oriented Las Vegas news (a future website is in the works); @ToplessVegas for updates from the world of strip clubs, shows, pools, the burlesque scene, and more related to our Topless Vegas guide book (now out in handy pocket-sized edition); @GreenVegas for news about environmental initiatives in Las Vegas, which hotels are adopting "green" practices (you'd be surprised...), information about farmers markets, vegetarian/vegan/organic/sustainable dining, events, and more, which ties in with our Las Vegas Green Visitor Guide, and lastly, @Reefer_Gladness, the Twitter specifically associated with Michael Konik's new book of the same name, where you'll find marijuana-related news and updates about book signings and other events. Follow whichever of these takes your fancy!
Wayne Brady will be moving his improv show Making %@it Up, which previously performed at the Venetian, to Planet Hollywood for four dates in October on 1,2,8, and 9. We'll post details about show times and ticket prices in our "Events" section when they're confirmed.
The Cloud Nine Balloon Ride was due to re-launch today, following several months hiatus while the giant helium balloon, destroyed in heavy winds, was repaired. We confirmed the launch date with them a couple of weeks back, but calls yesterday and today went unanswered, although the website still touts today as official launch day. We'll keep you posted as and when we find out more.
Gossip guru Robin Leach reports in his "Vegas Deluxe" column in the LV Weekly that both magician David Copperfield, a regular Strip headliner, and the cast of the Beatles' LOVE Cirque show at Mirage, will be appearing on tonight's finale of "America's Got Talent," where the money's on either 10-year-old Jackie Evancho and or local Las Vegas blues man Michael Grimm to take the top prize.
As the mushrooming Asian gaming market continues to eclipse Las Vegas, first Steve Wynn announced that he was moving his HQ to Macau; now Las Vegas Sands Corp. has said it may drop "Las Vegas" from its name to better reflect its international footprint. No new moniker has been settled on as yet, but apparently Sheldon Adelson has suggested Sands International or Sands Resort International.
Vegas Drive in the northwest part of the valley has been closed in both directions from Buffalo to N. Rainbow following back-to-back accidents. (This item posted at 4:10 p.m.)
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has approved a $2.2 million deal to bring the World Route Development Forum to Las Vegas in 2013. The event is expected to bring some 3,000 travel executives to the city and return about a million dollars through sponsors. It's hoped that hosting this key trade-show conference will boost international visitation to Las Vegas.
The city's casino revenues were up by 1.1 percent in August, thanks entirely to an almost 9 percent surge at MGM Grand Detroit, the largest of the city's casinos with 43 percent of the market. Revenues at MotorCity and Greektown were down 5.1 percent and 2.4 percent, respectively, compared to August 2009. The latter emerged from bankruptcy at the end of June.
El Pollo Loco is celebrating 30 years in business with daily deals throughout the month of September. Click here for more info and to download printable coupons.
No sooner had we posted the previous item than a report came in from Hotels.com, via the Reno Gazette-Journal, revealing that hotel room rates nationwide are up for the first time since 2007, with a 9% uptick in Nevada (16% for Reno). Nevada had the fifth-lowest average rate per night in the U.S. at $88, and Las Vegas was shown to be the No. 1 desination for domestic travelers and No. 2 for international travelers (behind New York). So, even more reason to take advantage of our exclusive room-rate deals!
Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Or looking for an excuse to? We continue to build out our new room-booking dimension, with unbeatable codes for discounted Las Vegas hotel rooms. You cannot get a cheaper rate booking with the hotel direct -- we know, we've checked. For the top daily deals, click the left-hand tab on the home page feature; for all the other current best offers, click the "hotels" tab; shows will follow soon.
Nunsense, the award winning off-Broadway musical comedy, opens today at the Las Vegas Hilton. The show will perform daily (dark Tuesday) at 4 p.m. and now through Sept. 29 Nevada resident preview pricing is available for $19. Starting Setp. 30 tickets will be $29 (plus taxes and fees) for Nevada residents, with regular seats starting at $39.
A study just released by Nielsen Media Research has revealed a massive 40% increase in the number of UK online gamblers over a twelve-month period, with an additional 3.2 million players signing up. Although historically 46% of the UK's online gamblers have been women, the new report reveals that the latest surge has been fueled primarily by middle-aged men in the middle-class income bracket.
The Connecticut tribal casino announced yesterday that it will lay off 355 workers and close one of its two buffets, citing ongoing revenue declines due to the economy. 120 workers will be assigned to other positions throughout the property.
NV Energy is reporting a power outage in the northwest part of the Las Vegas valley. It's not currently known how many customers may be impacted or for how long.
The third Hash House A Go Go is set to debut inside the M Resort October 7. The restaurant will serve breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and dinner from 5 p.m. to close.
The 25th season of the popular reality show will be set in Las Vegas at the Hard Rock, with filming due to start this October. This will be the second time Las Vegas has served as the backdrop for "Real World," which in 2002 was based at the Palms, where you can still book the "Real World Suite" -- for $10,000/night.
Today through Sept. 19, it's the annual San Gennaro Festival, which has moved from its former home on W. Flamingo to the Silverton. We were there last night to check out the Monday Night Football action (there was none) and the feast seems to get bigger every year, with two Ferris wheels, a bunch of other rides, and of course copious food vendors selling Italian delicacies. Click here for times, prices, discount coupons, and more information.
Las Vegas hardly needs an excuse to party, so when there is an excuse, like the 200th anniversary of Mexican Independence, then we really go to town. Check out the new Spotlight on... feature for our lowdown on the tequila and mariachi madness.
Mac King's Comedy Magic, currently in its tenth year performing at Harrah's, has just had its contract extended through 2015. Mac's long been a loyal LVA supporter and we love his show, so our congrats go out again!
Anthony Curtis and an LVA staffer just had a lunch meeting at Carnegie Deli at The Mirage and can confirm that this was indeed a worthy winner of our recent Best Sandwich in Vegas reader poll. Congrats!
Churchill Downs has announced that it will acquire Harlow's Casino Resort & Hotel in Greenville, Miss. for $138 million in cash as part of its effort to diversify from its core horse racing business, while Las Vegas-based Full House Resorts is purchasing the Grand Victoria Casino & Resort in Indiana for $43 million.
Defending the Caveman at Excalibur is celebrating its 1,500th show in Las Vegas on Sept. 21 with $15 tickets for Nevada residents for 15 days starting September 21 to October 5. (GA tickets are usually priced at $39.95 for the evening shows and $34.95 for the Wednesday matinee performance.) Must be 13+ to attend.
Tonight marks the start of the Monday Night Football season. We're checking out the parties as you read this (and what we already know is posted at LVASports.com). We expect that Sam's Town and Suncoast will be giving away a free hot dog and beer again. We'll let you know.
The boys from History Channel's popular reality show are back from the road show and inviting fans to post questions on their Facebook page, so feel free to pose your queries, both personal and professional, to Rick, The Old Man, Corey, and Chumlee, and they'll answer the best via video.
The Sahara has very quietly launched a new topless show, Striptease The Show, a burlesque revue with a cast that includes a four-times Miss Nude World champ, a Vivid pornstarlet, and 2009 Penthouse Pet of the Year and Winner of VH1's Brett Michaels "Rock of Love" Taya Parker. The show opens Sept. 28 and will perform Tues-Sun at 11 p.m.; tickets start at $49.99. Look out for a review in the upcoming electronic edition of Topless Vegas v.4.2, which is in the works and will also feature new reviews of several of the other adult Strip revues, several of which have undergone significant changes of late.
Rock and Rita's, which recently debuted at Circus Circus where the coffee shop used to be, has just launched a all-night menu, with reverse happy hour specials nightly from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. The new menu features seven items for $5 each, including soft pretzels, spinach dip, nachos, sliders, quesadillas, and pulled BBQ pork or beef dip, plus two-for-one drinks.
While the rumored residency never came to fruition, Diana Ross will be gracing the stage at the Colosseum with her legendary presence for two nights only this November 12 and 13. Tickets go on sale this Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10 a.m. and start at $49.50 (plus applicable fees).
Today's msnbc.com "Travel" section has an interesting feature by local writer Steve Friess about the new generation of Las Vegas restaurant architecture and design. As an aside, production is well underway on our upcoming dining guide, Eating Las Vegas: The 50 Essential Restaurants, which will be available early November, well in time for the holidays.
"Fox 5 News" reports that the historic Plaza downtown Las Vegas will close its hotel later this year, laying off 400 workers. The closure is not permanent -- the hotel will be shuttered early November for wholescale renovations, which are anticipated to take a year to complete. A portion of the casino will also be closed for remodeling, but apparently the Rat Pack Is Back show, food court, or Firefly restaurant (check the twofer tapas offer in the 2010 MRB) will remain open for biz.
The Plaza's online reservation site allows guests to book rooms up until Nov. 4, with all following dates blacked out and bargain-basement $29 rates offered on its final week. Owners Tamares group said some of the laid-off workers will be offered jobs at the Vegas Club across the street.
The popular burger chain, which arrived in the Vegas Valley earlier this year, has announced the unveiling of a raft of new menu items today, including three additional Smashchicken sandwich recipes and four new Smashsalads. The Las Vegas locations are: 7541 W. Lake Mead Ste 2 (Lake Mead and Buffalo); 9109 W. Sahara Ste 108 (Fort Apache and Sahara); and 5655 Centennial Center Blvd. Ste 170 (Ann and Centennial Center).
Former N'Sync member and "Dancing With the Stars" contestant Joey Fatone begins his exclusive run hosting The Price is Right Live at Bally's tomorrow, Sept. 14. Joey will host the show through Sept. 25.
You still have three chances left to attend the seasonal recruitment drive for Circus Circus' Halloween attraction, with auditions for Frightdome taking place today from 4 to 7 p.m. and again next weekend on Saturday and Sunday at the same time. Must be 18+, bring a valid government-issued ID, and not be afraid of things that go bump in the night...
Local favorite Metro Pizza is also offering a Twitter promo today: Follow @MetroPizza and show yesterday's promo Tweet for 25% off all pizzas today at the Trop location (1395 E. Tropicana Ave.)
According to Ethel M's recently-launched Twitter, today is "National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day." We thought that was Dec. 16, but we're not going to knock it because in honor of the special occasion, our local chocolatier is offering 10% off all purchases today for anyone who mentions "I Love Ethel M."
The NFL starts today. The sports books are packed everywhere. Check out LVASports.com for leads on parties and deals throughout the city.
Sheryl Crow's show tonight at The Joint at Hard Rock has been postponed due to illness. The new show date will be announced soon. September 11 show tickets will be valid for the rescheduled date. Ticketholders should hold on to their tickets or refunds can be requested at the point of purchase.
Lagasse's Stadium at Palazzo is jumping for the college games. The sofas are all taken, but there are plenty of places to set up at a bar or on a rail to watch all the action.
Parties featuring the college games are running today at Cabo Wabo Cantina, Rock & Rita's, Big Dog's Draft House, and McFadden's. Check out LVASports.com for updates and more leads on parties and other sports-related happenings around town.
The weekend USA Today contains a feature on Las Vegas real estate emphasizing the availability of "deals." Strip condos are identified as the best play for cheap pick-ups.
Today's the end of the line for the popular French eatery after six years at Mandalay Bay. Chef Hubert Keller will be sticking around and converting into a tapas-style restaurant, however, scheduled to open mid-December.
Thanks to sponsorship from Target, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum (N. Las Vegas Blvd. at Washington) is offering free admission today (normally $10 for adults, although there's a permanent 2-for-1 printable coupon on their website). Go check out thenew Treasures of Egypt exhibit.
Vegas-based boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. has been arrested on a charge of grand larceny, after allegedly letting himself into his ex's house Thursday and removing a number of possessions. Josie Harris, who has three children with Mayweather, called Metro to report that the boxer had broken into her home and assaulted her in front of the children; Metro is apparently pushing for Mayweather to also be charged with domestic battery.
It's still unknown what caused the 3 Alarm fire that broke out this morning in the strip mall that houses the Can Can Room nude club and other adult businesses. One woman was taken to hospital with injuries. More information as we get it.
The totally nude gentleman's club on Dean Martin Dr. around the corner from the Las Vegas Advisor offices, is currently experiencing a 3 Alarm Fire. We'll keep you posted.
After 31 years, the exhibit on E. Tropicana dedicated to the flamboyant singer's life is to close October 17th, the latest victim of the economic downturn that's hit Las Vegas tourism hard. The Liberace Foundation will continue to keep the showman's legacy alive, and the memorabilia from the museum is scheduled to be transformed into a touring exhibit.
The South Beach transformation continues at the Tropicana Las Vegas, which has just announced that there will be a recruitment drive on Monday, Sept. 13 to hire 140 workers to staff Café Nikki, the dining component of Nikki Beach, which is set to open in November and will apparently feature a live DJ for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visit the hotel website for more information.
Anthony Curtis just posted the first of this season's "Football Updates" at LVASports.com. Look out for weekly reports throughout the season as he reviews football contests, parties, and more.
Pool season's winding down, finally, but just as football's cranking up, so there's no danger of a lack of parties -- check out LVASports.com for the lowdown. Not a sports fan? No problem. Here are just some of the other highlights to look forward to this weekend.
All 37 Valley PT's locations are hosting Football Season Kick-off Parties tonight from 5-10 p.m., with free stadium buffet, Bud Light specials, contests, and prizes. For our in-depth coverage of football parties, contests, and team bars, visit LVASports.com, which we'll be updating throughout the season, plus Anthony Curtis will be posting regular reports throughout the season as he does the legwork for you and finds who has the best deals and most fun scenes in town.
As reported by "Stiffs & Georges" blogger David McKee in his Twitter, the European Union is set to challenge the new $14 "Tourist Tax" that was introduced Wednesday and will be levied on visitors to the U.S. from countries that do not require a visa, including most citizens of Europe, as well as Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan
Planning a trip to Vegas? If so, be sure to check out the current LVA Room Deals. Even if you weren't planning a visit, you might see an offer in there that's just too good to pass up...
Today's Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that on October 22, President Obama will visit Las Vegas for the third time this year in an effort to rally support for Democratic candidates Sen. Harry Reid and Rep. Dina Titus.
Now through the end of the month, Las Vegas locals who present a valid I.D. at the box office can purchase tickets to the Riviera Comedy Club for just $15 (regular price $35.49)
Check out the latest featured discussion from the members-only message boards at LVASports.com, which we're sharing for free just to give non-member sports bettors a taste of what they're missing... And look out for the next "Fezzik Friday" in tomorrow's Question of the Day column.
Yahoo Travel has picked the Hard Rock's coffee shop, home to the famous $7.77 off-menu "Gambler's Special", as one of the Best 24-Hour Hot Spots in the U.S. Click here for the complete list.
Las Vegas' newest gentlemen's club, which has eclipsed Sapphire as the largest strip club in the world, holds its official Grand Opening on Sept. 10. Owner Larry Flynt, plus Lisa Ann, Little Lacy, August Hustler centerfold Cami Parker, and the girls of LA Direct Models will all be on hand to get the party started. For comprehensive information about the whole Vegas strip club scene, check out our guide to Topless Vegas.
"Project Runway" style expert Tim Gunn will be hosting the Fall 2010 Fashion Show on behalf of Lucky Brand Jeans this Saturday and signing copies of his latest book. The event, which is taking place from 1 p.m. in the Forum Shops, will feature refreshments and music and is open to the public, but seating's limited.
Las Vegas has been getting a lot of love today, one way or another. The latest is news that Tao, the ultra-hip club at Venetian, has been named #1 Top Club in the U.S. by Club Planet. Congratulations!
The Monte Carlo has replaced long-time headliner magician Lance Burton with hip-hop dance crew Jabbawockeez, the first-season winner of MTV's "America's Best Dance Crew" contest. Burton ended his 14-year run last weekend, after citing "irreconcilable differences" with the new management at the property; the seven-member dance crew is due to open in October and is scheduled to perform for at least six months.
For a limited time only, the Rio's Village Seafood Buffet is hosting a Baja Seafood & Cerveza Fest, with all-you-can-eat lobster and crab legs, diablo shrimp, margarita mahi mahi, seafood enchiladas, a ceviche bar, and 99¢ frozen Sauza margaritas and $5 Coronita and Pacifico buckets. The usual $38.99 price applies, with $5 off for locals with valid ID. It's not yet known how long this promotion will run, so get it while you can.
The new season of truTV's "Rehab" series, chronicling the goings-on at the notorious Hard Rock pool party, debuts tonight at 6 p.m. Click here for a preview clip and more info.
On Sept. 1 a handler was attacked by one of the lions at the MGM Grand's free exhibit, and video of the incident, filmed by a spectator, has now surfaced on YouTube. Meanwhile, we just read via Twitter from a friend of the victim that he received over 100 stitches, although from the video of the attack it doesn't look that serious.
JR's Place, the Italian bar and restaurant at 5745 W. Durango, has closed its doors, a victim of both the economy and horrible ongoing roadworks on Durango. Today and tomorrow they're holding a liquidation sale, so call by if you're looking to pick up any bar furniture or just want a souvenir.
There's an open casting call for cocktail servers at the Palms on Sept. 13 from 4-6 p.m. in The Lounge. Bring current head and full-length shots.
Cathy Scott, author of Huntington Press' best seller The Killing of Tupac Shakur, will be featured on ESPN tonight at 11 p.m., following the screening of their documentary about Tupac and Mike Tyson. Today is the 14th anniversay of Tupac's fatal shooting in Las Vegas; to date, no one has been brought to justice for his killing.
We have good news if you're a new or previous member of the notorious "Black Book," the Nevada State Gaming Control Board's list of "Excluded Persons." You might not be able to set foot in any of our casinos anymore, but from Sept. 10-12, you can get 20% off your purchase at White House Black Market in the Miracle Mile Shops. School teachers with valid ID will receive 15% off their purchases through Oct. 2, too. (We're not sure if you can combine these deals if you happen to be a teacher and in the Black Book, but we hope so.)
The "$200K Curiously Strange Slot Tournament" is underway at the Palms, featuring performances on the hour from members of Jim Rose's crew of circus freaks and sideshow performers in the Key West Ballroom. Every day through Oct 2, Club Palms members will have the chance to participate in the tournament, which will be held daily from 9 a.m.–10 p.m., with 120 winners each week walking away with a share of $50,000 in free slot play, plus other perks for high scores. Check with the players club for more details.
Today's LA Times reports that Reggie Bush will likely be stripped of his 2005 Heisman Trophy, on the grounds that he was ineligible for the award during his Trojan playing days due to illegal benefits he received. Click the link for more information.
Encore Beach Club has announced the conclusion of its Thursday "Dip and Dance" party; Surrender Nightclub will be open Thursdays as a replacement. This weekend marks the unofficial end of pool season. The pools will remain open and events will continue to run well into October, but the pace will begin to fall off.
Lance Burton has concluded his 14-year run at the Monte Carlo. No word yet on where he may go next; however, it looks like the show Jabbawockeez will replace Burton beginning in October.
At least the Paris Hilton drug bust is providing some good material for the late-night talkshow hosts. Reportedly commenting on why Paris was subsequently banned from the Wynn, Jay Leno reportedly quipped, "I think we can rule out card counting."
Happy Labor Day. Station and Fiesta casinos are awarding 7X points on slots and 5X points on video poker. At South Point its 5X on slots and 2X on VP. El Cortez is handing out free White Castle burgers to all Club Cortez members from noon to 6 p.m., and visit the players club for 500 free points.
Station and Fiesta casinos have a good low-level comp deal, good Sundays through Thursdays in September. Earn 100 Boarding Pass points in a day and get a free breakfast or lunch buffet, or earn 200 for a free brunch or dinner buffet. You keep the points. Depending on the games you play, that's just $100-$400 coin-in -- a very low qualifying requirement.
For the fifth straight year, this weekend South Point hosts the annual Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, which has been running since 1966. Free seating is available to the general public, but it's limited and will be on a first come, first served basis, from 9 p.m. September 5 to 2 p.m. September 6. Click here for more information about the event and who's participating this year. Click here for more information about the event and who's participating this year.
Today's LV Review-Journal contains its annual list of bars with NFL team affiliations, which helps you find places to watch your favorite team play with fans who are from your home town or at least rooting the same way. It's a good list, though usually not as comprehensive as the one we post each year. Ours goes up later this week at LVASports.com.
Say goodbye to the Beatport Beach party for the summer with a bang today, as pool season begins to wind down. Check out our Labor Day listings in "Special Events" for more parties, and check the "Cool Pools" feature in Entertainment and Nightlife for those pool parties that are ongoing.
Hugh Hefner confirmed via his Twitter that October Playmate Claire Sinclair has been chosen to guest star in MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris revue the last week in October (21-28, 2010).
The current trend for mobile gourmet street food continues, with the launch today of yet another food truck. The latest is dubbed the Flow Rider Truck and will be serving giant subs and burgers, including an eight-patty monster. To check on their current whereabouts, visit FlowRiderTruck.com and to read about all the other food trucks currently operating in the Vegas Valley, see the September issue of the LVA newsletter.
Upwards of 290,000 visitors are expected to come to Las Vegas this Labor Day weekend. That's a 2.8% increase over last year; however, revenues are expected to be lower in most areas. It's an extention of the overall theme for the past several months: More people, less spending.
The Coast Connection supplement came out in Friday's LV Review-Journal. It includes a $10 matchplay for the Orleans and a $25 matchplay for Gold Coast. There's also good information on the Coast's football promotions.
Expect zero tolerance for drunken or otherwise-intoxicated driving this weekend as Metro rolls out the largest DUI checkpoints in the Valley's history for the holiday.
One lucky lady will win $5,000 today as Planet Hollywood crown's "Miss Pleasure Pool" at the season-finale of their bikini contest at 3 p.m. today.
Every Saturday, the Whole Foods Market on Fort Apache serves up chicken, beef, pork, and grilled veggie street tacos for $1 each.
Matt Youman's column in the "Sports" section of today's LV Review-Journal includes commentary from Fezzik on this weekend's UNLV/Wisconsin match-up. Lately it's been all Fezzik all the time (including the first "Fezzik Fridays" in Question of the Day) as LVASports gears up for the start of the new football season.
If Restaurant Week got your appetite whetted and you're wondering what to do next, fear not! On Thursday, Sept. 9, the Nevada Restaurant Association (NvRA) and The Palazzo host the Las Vegas Epicurean Affair, with poolside samples of cuisine and cocktails from nearly 75 restaurants and beverage purveyors. The event takes place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and General Admission tickets are $100 each, available at the Venetian and Palazzo box office on 702/414-9000.
According to gossip columnist Robin Leach, ex-N' Sync member and Dancing With the Stars contestant Joey Fatone will be guest-hosting The Price is Right Live show at Bally's mid-month. More details as/when we get them.
This weekend Paris is hosting another "Secret Rendezvous" promotion for Total Rewards members. Drawings will take place every hour from noon to 7 p.m., Friday through Sunday, for $1,000 in free slot play and 1,000 Gift Points. Every Base Reward Credit you earn during these days gets you one entry.
Macau's gambling revenue rose 40% in August from a year earlier, reports today's Wall Street Journal -- a slowdown on the pace earlier this year, but still proof that China's gambling mecca has recovered from the effects of last year's economic slowdown.
According to rumors currently being circulated by the U.K.'s Daily Mirror newspaper and gossip blogger Perez Hilton, a Las Vegas residency at a major hotel could be on the cards for Bon Jovi. No further details have been forthcoming at this point, so we'll just add it to the pile of other rumors currently piling up regarding similar fates for Madonna and DJ Tiesto...
According to figures released today by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Labor Day weekend visitation is up 2.8 percent this year compared to 2009, with an estimated 290,000 visitors due in town this weekend. The estimated nongaming economic impact, however, is down to $160.7 million, a 3 percent or $5 million drop from last year.
Did you vote in our current Reader Poll, in search of who makes the best subs and sandwiches in Las Vegas? It's a subject many readers seem passionate about, so make sure your fave gets your vote if you're a sandwich fan!
Las Vegas Hilton spokesman Ken Ciancimino has today issued a statement saying that the troubled heiress, who's experiencing much negative fallout from her recent alleged cocaine-possession bust at Wynn Las Vegas, remains welcome at her namesake hotel, although it's no longer owned by the Hilton family. No word from Paris Las Vegas as to whether or not she's welcome there (we recall interviewing Paris on the opening night, when she was only 18 years old but confirmed that she liked to gamble in her grandfather's casinos.)
JR's place, the Italian bar/eatery at 5745 S. Durango, is hosting a special happy hour tonight from 4-7 p.m., with 99¢ "Rock" brand sake, cocktail menu, and meatball sliders, while this evening also sees the debut of Hussong Cantina's (Mandalay Place) new "Uno, Dos, Tres" Thursday happy hour, where you can get a beer, a shot of tequila, and a taco for just $3.
The "Travel" section in today's USA Today features an article recommending five hidden hotel values in Las Vegas, including one on our "Free Wi-Fi" list (see today's QoD) and another in our ever-exanding Green Vegas Guide.
This is a big holiday weekend for Vegas, that traditionally heralded the end of pool season (these days, since the advent of the "daylife" concept, it extends through September and even into October). You'll find all the poolside highlights in our Special Events section; in the meantime, here's the best of the rest.
Today's Las Vegas Sun reports how Sheldon Adelson plans to appeal the decision by a Las Vegas jury to award $43.8 million to Hong Kong businessman Richard Suen, who claims he was not compensated for his role in helping the casino mogul get approval for two casinos in Macau.
We reported in this column yesterday that there were rumors of complications with singer Celine Dion's pregnancy and that she'd been forced to undergo emergency surgery in Europe. We also reported that her publicist denied the story, and we can now confirm that a source very close to the singer assures us that the rumor was totally without basis and and Celine and the twins she's carrying are all doing fine.
As the season kickoff looms, Anthony Curtis' column is all about football this week, including the lowdown on contests, parties, wagering tips, and more, so check it out at LVA in the Media. We're in the process of updating all the football info at LVASports.com, too, so keep checking back for updates on parties, contests, team bars, etc.
If you're going to be in town for the holiday weekend, don't forget to check out our Labor Day feature in "Special Events."
The Lopez vs Marquez fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, due to take place Sept. 18, has been rescheduled for Saturday, Nov. 6.
After a few tight-lipped days, Wynn Resorts today issued a statement confirming that Cy Waits, who had recently been promoted to Co-Chief of Nightlife Operations at Wynn and Encore, has been "separated from the company and is free to pursue other interests," while it's just been reported that Paris Hilton has been banned from both properties after her cocaine bust at Wynn last weekend.
As part of its ongoing remodel and upgrade, the Tropicana Las Vegas has just unveiled its new casino area.
American Wagering Inc., the company behind the Leroy's Horse and Sports Place sports books throughout Nevada, is launching an app for BlackBerry devices that will allow legal wagering in time for the start of college football and the NFL regular season, whether or not you're in a casino. The company plans to launch new apps for iPhones, Droids, and Windows-based phones soon but each application requires separate approval from state gaming regulators. CEO Vic Salerno is quoted as saying, "I'm all-in on this. We've reinvented the company entirely."
The popular old-school Italian eatery on E. Tropicana just Tweeted "RT this for 2-for-1 drinks and 25% off all appetizers today at the bar, served by a ninja." Follow @CasaDiAmore for more information and other promos from this former LVA Local Corner.
According to Fox News, Trump Taj Mahal is planning to be the first casino in Atlantic City to have a strip club on property and is scheduled to open a SCORES-branded gentlemen's club before the end of the year. In the meantime, don't forget that our acclaimed guide to the Las Vegas strip-club scene is now available as a handy pocket guide for just $5.95 -- click here for more information about Topless Vegas.
Channel 8 has just reported a serious accident downtown involving a pedestrian and a vehicle that's closed streets around Bonanza Rd and H St. (This item posted at 8:57 a.m.)