Though he doesn’t often refer to himself as Tony, your recollection in every other respect describes Anthony Curtis.
To answer your question, we wouldn’t go so far as to say Anthony’s middle name is "Mingle" (he’d never forgive us, since his friends would torture him forever with it). But yes, Anthony, whether he’s recognized or not, is extremely friendly in the casino, especially when he’s relaxing (and may have a Heineken or two in him).
What’s more, he’s more often recognized than not, having been one of the most visible "faces of Vegas" for close to 20 years. And when he is recognized, he’s even more solicitous, often taking out time that he doesn't have to stop and chat.
When he’s out in public, you see, he’s almost always a man on a mission, checking some gambling promotion, 2-for-1 coupon, hot dog deal, beer special, bargain steak or prime rib, and so forth, or rushing to a meeting or broadcast taping, or shepherding around a visiting journalist, or any one of a hundred errands that he runs around town. Still, we’re continuously amazed at how gracious and cooperative he is, especially knowing how busy he is.
But we’re not surprised by it, not in the least. Because if anyone was born to be the Las Vegas Advisor, it’s Anthony Curtis. And he’s completely in his element when he’s out and about in this city, totally on his game.
It has utility for him too, since he often picks up on what visitors, especially LVA subscribers, are thinking. He gets lots of feedback and pays closer attention than you’d imagine to what he hears and sees and senses. Often times, it translates into stories in the newsletter and on the website, even books and other products that we produce.
So, not only do people, like you, love bumping into him, but he loves bumping into them too.
