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January 31, 2006

Bellagio Conservatory dresses up for Chinese New Year

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Through Feb. 2, Bellagio's Jasmine cafe offers Cantonese cuisine and a Dim Sum Buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This season's Bellagio Conservatory pays tribute to the Chinese New Year (the Year of the Dog). The exhibit is 24 hours, free, and runs through Feb. 25.

Walking through the Conservatory is one of my favorite things to do in Vegas. A stroll through the foliage in the middle of the night soothes even the worst of poker bad beats.

If you can't yet be there to hear the sounds of traditional Chinese music and the dog barking (its tail wags, too) or smell the scents of the imported trees and flowers, I snapped some photos (click below) that might provide a reasonable substitute before you can experience it yourself.

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$149 room rates at Bellagio

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Bellagio has $149 rooms for Feb. 5, 6, and 7.

Reserve at 1-866-460-0728 and mention offer code D1493E or click here to book online.

January 30, 2006

Hooters Casino opens this week

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Just in time for the Super Bowl, the new Hooters Casino-Hotel officially opens this Friday, Feb. 3, but you can get a sneak peek on Feb. 2 after 9 p.m.

Events scheduled around their grand opening include:

Feb. 3
Food and drink specials throughout the day
4 p.m. to 5 a.m., entertainment on three stages
7 p.m. to 9 p.m., celebrity blackjack tournament

Feb. 4
12 p.m. to 3 p.m., Pool Party and Pig Roast with live entertainment
3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Pre-Game Chalk Talk with sports handicapper Wayne Allyn Root
4 p.m. to 5 a.m., entertainment on three stages
7 p.m., introduction of the 2006 Hooters Calendar Girls and autographs

Feb. 5
Super Bowl
Food and drink specials throughout the day
2006 Hooters Calendar Girls selling and autographing calendars
8 p.m. to 5 a.m., entertainment on two stages

You can get your hands on a free calendar between Feb. 17-26 by getting a hand pay at a slot machine, making six passes in a row at craps, or earning 1,000 points on your player's card on your first visit.

Three Vegas hotels, restaurants are AAA's Five Diamond

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Since 1977, AAA has published its prestigious Diamond Awards. Every year, 65 full-time evaluators (66 if AAA is hiring, ahem) provide extensive inspections of almost 57,000 hotels and restaurants around the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Only 0.26 percent make AAA's highest rating -- the prestigious Five Diamond level.

A complete list of the hotels and restaurants are available online in PDF format.

This year, three hotels and three restaurants in Las Vegas made Five Diamond.

The three hotels: the Ritz-Carlton (Lake Las Vegas in Henderson), the Bellagio, and the Four Seasons.

The three restaurants: Alex (Wynn), Picasso (Bellagio), and Le Cirque (Bellagio).

January 29, 2006

Riot on Las Vegas Strip leads to 14 arrests

CNN reports that 14 people were arrested last night in a street brawl right on the Las Vegas Strip.

The fight began at the Hawaiian Marketplace and when police tried to break it up, the people began attacking them as well.

It was so bad that part of the Strip between MGM Grand and Bellagio was closed to traffic for 20 minutes, and as many as 80 officers came in to control the riot.

We were right there last night but inside the safe confines of the casino losing our money like any other good gambler. Figures we always miss out on the free fights.

So far none of the local news has picked up on the story...

January 27, 2006

Gung Hay Fat Choy, Vegas style

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Jan. 29 officially marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year, otherwise known as the Year of the Dog (we just hope we remember to write the year 4703 on our checks), and casinos will be celebrating in hopes of luring in more of the lucrative Chinese market.

Traditionally, the Chinese believe the New Year is a time to test one's luck -- if you you win a bet during this time, you'll be lucky the rest of the year. And that testing time will be over the next two weeks, which is one of the biggest gambling events in Las Vegas.

Many properties have added decorations to their lobbies and casinos emphasizing Chinese symbols of luck and prosperity -- gold coins, red lanterns, and orange trees.

Tomorrow (Jan. 28) at 4:30 p.m., The Venetian holds its annual dragon dance, with firecrackers, an eye painting ceremony, and traditional Chinese music.

You can then lion hop at three different casinos to see lion dances at Rio on Jan. 28 at 11 p.m., Bally's on Jan. 29 at 1 a.m., and Paris on Jan. 29 at 2 a.m.

On Feb. 1 at 7 p.m., the Fremont Street Experience hosts the Peking Acrobats, the first time they've been in town in 10 years. The Peking Acrobats perform stunts on top of a chair pagoda and are experts in gymnastics and wire-walking, defying gravity with their flexibility and contortion. They'll be accompanied by live musicians performing traditional Chinese music with high-tech special effects.

On Feb. 4, Caesars Palace will have a painting of the eye ceremony.

Through Feb. 25, Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens transforms into a Chinese New Year spectacular.

Local restaurants are also getting into the swing of things. The Satay Malaysian Grill (3755 Spring Mountain Rd.) offers free champagne and appetizers, a martial arts demonstration, and a traditional dragon dance today at 5 p.m.

All events are free.

Splendor in the Glass Wine & Beer Tasting

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At the Las Vegas Hilton's Hilton Center on Jan. 28 from 3 to 7 p.m., Southern Nevada Public Television station KLVX puts on its 17th annual benefit Splendor in the Glass Wine & Beer Tasting.

Sample wines and beer from over 65 wineries and breweries, enjoy a jazz combo, and participate in a live wine auction and silent auction.

Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door, and can be purchased at this link.

Proceeds benefit Channel 10 Public Television.

$55 Prix fixe deal at Bouchon

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Through Feb. 9, use the below coupon for a three-course $55 prix fixe meal at Bouchon at The Venetian.

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Thomas Keller's classic French bistro Bouchon was modeled after the bouchons of Lyon and is overseen by executive chef Jeff Cerciello.

Advance reservations are required, and the coupon is limited to four guests between 5 and 6:30 p.m.


Musical Chess performs through Feb. 5

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Take a hop off-Strip to Summerlin and check out the musical Chess, with music by Benny Andersson & Bjorn Ulvaeus (half of ABBA), lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Richard Nelson. "One Night in Bangkok" came from this show, but don't judge it for that.

Chess is a love story that parallels relations between the U.S. and the former Soviet Union, all centered around a chess match.

Performed by Stage Door Entertainment, tickets are $15 to $18 and performed at the Summerlin Library Performing Arts Center, 1771 Inner Circle Dr., Summerlin (map).

Remaining performances are tonight and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m., Jan. 29 at 2 p.m., Feb. 2-4 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 5 at 2 p.m.

January 26, 2006

$4 billion Ultimate Sports Resort planned

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Earlier today, Ultimate Sports Entertainment held a press conference announcing plans for a proposed $4 billion sports-themed hotel and casino with 5,500 hotel rooms, 10 nightclubs, a 26,000-seat arena, an aquatic center, and two casinos, one of which is to be nonsmoking. Centered around sports, it will also include indoor tennis courts, swimming pool, dive center, and air-conditioned driving range.

The Ultimate Sports Resort would be located eight miles north of the Strip (I-215) in North Las Vegas, near the Speedway casino.

California developer Matt Rose hopes to lure amateur and Olympic sporting events to his resort. He's already secured $93 million in escrow for 116 acres, and though it's still a far cry from the big money he'll need for the project to go forward, perhaps he's also trying to lure one of the gaming companies not already building megaresorts to help fund the idea.

Still, Rose hopes to break ground by the summer and open in 2009.

Has the bubble burst on luxury condos?

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Has the Vegas condo boom already jumped the shark before the first tower's been completed?

Much talk has been made of the "Manhattanization" of Vegas, with Broadway shows, cityscapes, and luxury towers moving in to create a very different landscape of the Las Vegas Strip just 10 years from now.

With properties attached to high-profile personalities from Michael Jordan to Ivana Trump to George Clooney already folded, postponed, or being altered in scope, the residential real estate market is now looking more like a brush fire than an explosion.

The past two years, more than 70 towers were planned or in development, with condos going for $500 to $1,000 per square foot (in New York City, luxury apartments run double that). The flurry of initial buying (with hopeful fast turnaround profits) has slowed, while construction costs and interest rates have increased.

And as infectious as the buying was, the not buying is just as fast. The number of condo towers planned is now down to 18, and experts predict more to drop before the first luxury brick is mortared.

Aladdin $59 room rates


With construction crews dominating pit areas as they make the switch to Planet Hollywood while remaining in operation, Aladdin offers $59 nights on selected weeknights through April. Their "Springtime Early Bird Room Special" is just a coincidence, but we do warn you that you'll be dodging sudden walls that weren't there before.

Along with the special rate, you'll get $10 in free slotplay (with $20 coin-in), a 2-for-1 breakfast buffet, and two free passes to the Elemis Spa.

Click here to see dates available.

To reserve, use the code CSPRG6 and call 1-877-333-9474 or book online

Free pet sterilizations

For the rest of January, Clark County will tap into their $50,000 pet sterilization fund and hand out 1,500 vouchers (including 500 set aside just for seniors) to spay or neuter your pet for free or minimal cost with a nearby veterinarian.

No phone requests will be accepted. Pick up your voucher at one of the following places:

  • Cambridge Recreation Center, 3930 Cambridge, 89109
  • Cora Coleman Sunrise Sr Center. 2100 Bonnie Lane, 89156
  • Desert Breeze Community Center, 8275 Spring Mountain Rd., 89117
  • Paradise Community Center, 4775 S. McLeod, 89121
  • Helen Meyer Community Center, 4525 New Forest Dr., 89147
  • Hollywood Recreation Center, 1650 S. Hollywood, 89142
  • Parkdale Community Center, 3200 Ferndale, 89121
  • Sunrise Community Center, 2240 Linn Lane, 89156
  • Senior Advocate Cambridge Community Center, 3900 Cambridge St., Suite 105, 89119
  • Sunset Park Administration Bldg., 2610 E. Sunset Rd., 89120
  • West Flamingo Senior Center, 6255 W. Flamingo Rd., 89103
  • Whitney Center, 5712 E. Missouri Ave., 89122
  • Walnut Community Center, 3075 N. Walnut Ave., 89115
  • Winchester Community Center, 3130 S. McLeod, 89121
  • Sandy Valley Community Center, 650 Quartz 89019
  • Mountain Crest Community Center, 4701 N. Durango, 89129

Soup for you

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Did you know January is National Soup Month?

We didn't either, and we're shuddering at the catching up we have to do with five days remaining.

Mon Ami Gabi (at Paris Las Vegas) will help out with specially prepared soup flights for $6.95 each.

Arranged like wine flights, each contains three small versions of the French restaurant's specialty soups.

That's a relief. We already missed National Gazpacho Day (Dec. 6) and were about to celebrate with chicken noodle at the buffet.

Las Vegas Shopping

LasVegasVegas.com is proud to introduce and welcome Richard. Richard is a Las Vegas native, having lived in Las Vegas all of his life. He has witnessed first-hand the spectacular growth of a dusty desert town with a hand full of gambling joints and one high school morph into the two million metropolis of multi-billion dollar resorts and high rise living. Richard will be adding his unique (and sometimes slanted) take on all things Vegas, now, then and tomorrow.-Editor



The Venetian Resort has put out the decorations for the upcoming Chinese New year, the year of the Dog.

The Venetian Resort has put out the decorations for the upcoming Chinese New year, the year of the Dog.


Shopping in Las Vegas is fascinating, we have shops in the hotels along Las Vegas Blvd. aka "the Strip", that consider Christian Dior to be mid-range, and at the same time they're building another Walmart super store at the corner of Harmon and the Boulder Highway.
If you don't live here you absolutely have to see this place to believe it, in addition to the shows, the gambling and the bars there's some of the finest shopping in the world.
In Las Vegas, you can buy a Ferrari, a princess cut diamond, set in white gold and a hamburger made with pate and black truffles, all without leaving your hotel.

The Mirage offers shoppers a wide choice of affordable brand names and ultra-high-end merchandise.
The Mirage offers shoppers a wide choice of affordable brand names and ultra-high-end merchandise.

We have the Fashion Show mall on some of the most valuable land in the world, right at the corner of Spring Mountain Road and the Las Vegas Strip, that's where you'll find stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales, while just down the strip you'll find Ceasars Forum Shops with 175,000 sq ft of shopping it's no longer just small exclusive shops, you can find the Banana Republic, Brookstone and Magnet Maximus, but you can still find shops like Gucci, Bernini and Louis Vuitton.

Brioni at the Wynn.
Brioni at the Wynn.

Along the Las Vegas Strip you can find anything from the traditional "I Lost my shirt in Las Vegas" t-shirt to a pink diamond to match J. Lo's.
Trust me, you may not see it in the case, but if you want it and can pay for it they can get it.
I admit I don't go into the Forum Shops at Ceaser's Palace to shop, but I do sometimes wander through and window shop, not to mention, it's a great place to people watch.

Gondolas at the Venetian.
When you tire of shopping take a gondola ride thru the resort, including the Venetian's shopping district, shown here.

Las Vegas is the quintessential tourist town, it runs 24/7 and, for enough money, Vegas, will provide you with pretty much anything your little ol' heart desires, you just have to be careful who you ask for some of the more "exotic" items.

While shopping at the Mirage an ice cream break is always in order.
While shopping at the Mirage an ice cream break is always in order.

If you're coming to Las Vegas to shop, try the new joints along the strip, like the Wynn, and you'll find shops where the rent is more than most of us paid for our car, you'll also find out why people come to Vegas just to shop.
I was looking at a list of shops in the Wynn, they included Brioni, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Dior, Ferrari Maserati, Gizmos, Graff, Jo Malone, John Paul Gaultier, Judith Lieber, JLa Flirt, Louis Vuitton, Manolo Blahnik, Oscar de la Renta, W.Ink and Wynn & Co. Watches and this is just one of the hotels on the Las Vegas strip.

Pick up all your WPT logo items at the Mirage Impulse Shop.
Pick up all your WPT logo items at the Mirage Impulse Shop.

Oh, by the way, if you're staying at the Wynn everything in your room is for sale and is listed on the price brochure they leave you. Welcome to Las Vegas

As a side note: This afternoon I stopped at Walmart to buy some socks and as I was standing in line to check out, I saw an older lady wearing a hat and pearls with a nicely taylored womans business suit, the person in line directly ahead of me was a very butch female in her thirties with spiked black hair, a nose ring, several ear piercings and a Harley shirt, I am not making this up, these people really exist, and nobody but me seemed to notice that the woman was wearing pearls in the middle of the day. As the saying goes, "only in Las Vegas".

Want to buy some of the jewels offered at the Bellagio? You need to win the WSOP...twice!
Want to buy some of the jewels offered at the Bellagio? You need to win the WSOP...twice!
The Fashion Show Mall with more than 250 shops sits under the giant aluminum cloud on the Las Vegas Strip across from the Wynn.
The Fashion Show Mall with more than 250 shops sits under the giant aluminum cloud on the Las Vegas Strip across from the Wynn.

photos......Flipchip '06

January 25, 2006

Hairspray begins at Luxor

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Another Broadway show makes its way to the Strip. Hairspray, winner of Best 2003 Musical and seven other Tony Awards, premieres in Vegas at Luxor next month.

Based on the John Waters film, Hairspray tells the story of a Baltimore big girl with big hair who longs to dance on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand." For the first twelve weeks, Harvey Fierstein and Dick Latessa will recreate their original Broadway roles.

Performances begin Feb. 17 and ticket prices are $71.50 and $93.50.

However, previews are Feb. 6-14, where all tickets are $55.

"Best Of" Vegas Nighties Awards

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The 2006 winners of Light Group's Las Vegas Nighties awards (best night spots) were announced last week by Jeff Beacher and his Beacher's Madhouse Babies.

If you missed the awards ceremony at the newly christened JET Nightclub (so new, the website isn't up yet) here's The List. We especially like the winner of Best Tanning Salon because we're comforted by the fact that we can get a tan 24 hours a day.

Best Dance Club: Tao
Best Lounge: Foundation Room
Best Weekly Party: Worship Thursdays at Tao
Best Dining with a Scene: N9NE
Best Burlesque: Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce
Best Local Resident DJ: Scotty Boy
Best Gentleman's Club: Spearmint Rhino
Best Local Bar: Double Down Saloon
Best Nightclub Shopping: Bebe
Best Tanning Salon: The Tan Factory
Best Hair Salon: Globe Salon
Best Local Modeling Agency: Envy Models

January 24, 2006

Carrot Top playing at Luxor

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A recent flier from Luxor's VP of Marketing Brad Goldberg mentions he's "thrilled to have Carrot Top appearing here at the Luxor and look forward to him entertaining you for many years to come" (emphasis ours).

We're quite frightened at the prospect of having the great orange-headed one in our midst for multiple years in 40-week chunks, but we feel it only fair to mention his show just this one time and then go back to hiding behind the wooden pharoah statue.

Comedian Carrot Top has been described (by himself) as a cross between George Carlin, Steven Wright, and Gallagher.

Add in Jack LaLanne with this photo and we'll make room for you behind King Tut:

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Never have we been so thankful for a belt.


Carrot Top with all his props and pecs performs Sunday-Monday and Wednesday-Friday at 8 p.m., as well as Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. His show is dark on Tuesday.

Cost is $49.50 plus $3 service charge at Luxor.

Imperial Palace holds $100,000 tournament (no fee)

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From Jan. 26 to Jan. 28, Imperial Palace hosts the Poker Pigskin Challenge, a no-limit tournament with no fee and with a guaranteed first prize of $100,000.

Cost is $500, which comes with tournament entry, a reception, and a welcome gift.

I.P. also offers casino room rates of $49 Sunday-Thursday and $69 Friday-Saturday.

Players begin with 2,000 chips with an optional $25 dealer bonus for $500 additional chips.

Prizes are awarded through 30th place, with your $500 buy-in refunded for last place, and four drawings for $500:

First Place $100,000
Second Place $50,000
Third Place $25,000
Fourth Place $12,500
Fifth Place $10,000
Sixth Place $7,500
Seventh Place $6,250
Eighth Place $5,000
Ninth Place $3,750
Tenth Place $2,500
11th-20th Place $1,500
21st-30th Place $1,000
Last Place $500
Lucky Losers (four total) $500


Schedule:

Thursday, January 26
1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Tournament Registration
Gift Distribution
Draw for Playing Assignments

Friday, January 27
10 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. Flight One/Day One
3:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Flight Two/Day One

Saturday, January 28
11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Championship Round Play Begins
Lucky Loser Drawing/Final Table Play
Awards Presentation

To reserve your space, call 1-800-634-6441, ext. 2 or email events@imperialpalace.com.

January 23, 2006

Monthly $20,000 freerolls at Hilton

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The Las Vegas Hilton (3000 Paradise Rd.) hosts monthly $20,000 freerolls in their poker room for anyone playing 40 hours of poker the previous month.

Hours are doubled between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Freerolls take place at 10 a.m. the first Wednesday of every month with a guaranteed $10,000 for first place.

Players accruing 40 hours begin with 800 tournament chips. With 50 hours, players start with 1000 chips. With 60 hours, 1,200 chips.

Comps are $1 per hour, which can be put toward any of Hilton's restaurants.

Sapphire to be auctioned off

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At the Clark County Courthouse at 2 p.m. today, the 71,000-square-foot, 6.1-acre gentlemen's club Sapphire (3025 S. Industrial Rd.) will be auctioned off to the public.

Since opening the world's largest strip club in December 2003, owners Michael Talla and Pete Eliades have been in the middle of a lawsuit over control of the company and, unable to come to an agreement, decided to sell.

If you'd like to own your very own strip club, all it takes is a minimum starting bid of $35 million and a cash deposit.

That means they're asking $5.7 million per acre, when the average cost is going for $708,000 per acre.

That they decided to sell on the heels of Boyd Gaming's Echelon plans just in front of Sapphire's location could be just a coincidence. Boyd's venture will replace Stardust and will likely increase property value of Sapphire's location.

A simple rezoning for high-density development would put $5.7 million in the ballpark of the $6 million per acre that Concord Wilshire bought near Sapphire, though it faces the Las Vegas Strip.

If the minimum bid is not met, the club will continue to operate.

January 20, 2006

Big Daddy Burger Eating Contest at The Plaza

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Big Daddy Burger (not to scale)


On Jan 21 at 1 p.m., The Plaza holds the 2nd Annual Big Daddy Burger Eating Contest, the biggest and most challenging eating event from the International Federation of Competitive Eating.

The current champ to beat is Sonya Thomas, who at 5'5" and 100 pounds, is a bit smaller than the burger, which itself weighs in at a hefty nine pounds.

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Last year, Thomas (also known as The Black Widow) devoured the Big Daddy in 48 minutes and 10 seconds. She'll be back to defend her title.

Thomas is the first-ranked eater in the country, but she faces Rich LeFevre (known as The Locust), a Vegas resident and sxith-ranked eater in the world. He packed away 10 pounds of chili in 10 minutes.

A whopping $12,000 in prize money will be up for grabs, with $4,000 for 1st place.

A smaller, amateur warmup match begins at noon with 1.5 pounds of burger, awarding $800 for 1st place.

A couple friendly tips:

1) a variety of antacids are available in the gift shop.
2) avoid the restrooms right after the event.

Own a piece of the Boardwalk

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Here's your chance to start your very own casino, or just pick up a few souvenirs.

Tomorrow morning (Jan. 21) will be the last time you can pay tribute to the recently closed Boardwalk... by buying a piece of the Boardwalk.

An auction for all remaining items from the hotel-casino begins at 10 a.m. (preview items in advance at 8 a.m.) and is open to everyone.

Items include casino chairs and tables; roulette, craps, and blackjack tables; bar, restaurant, and hotel room furniture... even the Ferris Wheel and Shooting Gallery will be going once, going twice, and sold.

Sing Out, Louise, with the Broadway Bootcamp

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The Broadway Company brings to Vegas their popular Broadway Bootcamp, for anyone interested in prepping themselves for a musical theater life on the Big White Way.

Participants spend one week learning about what makes a good resume, headshot, audition, and more. Vocal coaching will be available, and at the end of the session, you'll put what you've learned to use when you meet casting directors and agents. Instructors are Adam Hunter (The Lion King), Dave Barrus (Beauty and the Beast), and Tony Award nominee Alice Ripley (Side Show, The Who's Tommy, Les Miserables).

Cost is $575 for Session 1, Jan. 23-27 from 6-9 p.m or $595 for Session 2, Jan. 28-29 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (includes lunch). Both sessions take place at the Backstage Dance Studio, 2230 San Jose Ave. (off East Sahara Ave.).

For more information, visit thebroadwaycompany.com or call (678) 361-3720.

January 19, 2006

Pilot shuttled $7 million in marijuana

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Pilot Gary Lynn Thomas was sentenced to 70 months in prison for shuttling some $7 million in cash to Las Vegas from selling marijuana in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Over the course of 13 years, he flew back and forth, depositing the money to Vegas banks in increments less than $10,000 to avoid IRS flagging.

But like Al Capone, what really caught up with Thomas was his failure to pay $2.1 million in taxes on his pot biz. That tax evasion, along with conspiracy to distribute marijuana, landed him the sentence.

Always pay your taxes.

Britney Spears, Kevin Federline in talks for nightclub at The Palms

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Allegedly speaking of pot (see above), Kevin Federline (you know, Mr. Britney Spears) convinced his wife to talk with the Maloofs about possibly opening a nightclub at The Palms.

'Course, the money would be coming from Spears, as Federline's singing career hasn't been the success he'd hoped (too many people downloading his songs, no doubt). And In Touch Weekly reports that Spears isn't too keen on her husband spending too much time at Vegas nightclubs.

No word on what spawn Sean Preston has to say on the matter.

Metro Pizza monthly calendar of savings

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Metro Pizza, which currently has three locations in Vegas (1395 E. Tropicana Ave., 4001 S. Decatur Blvd., inside Ellis Island, 4178 Koval Ln., and an upcoming location in Green Valley), publishes a monthly calendar of entertaining specials, available on their website.

Among these include:

Jan. 19 is Nuke Fries Meltdown. Get free nuke fries with any large pizza.

Jan. 21 is Lew Day. Get 50 percent off a large pizza if your name is Lew.

Jan. 26 is Cannoli Mania. Get a free dessert with any dine-in meal after 5 p.m.

We highly recommend stopping by for a $2.50 slice and a mug of fresh root beer.

January 18, 2006

Tattoo Girl closes this weekend

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Known for taking on dark, edgy material, Cockroach Theatre performs Naomi Iizuka's play Tattoo Girl this weekend.

Adapted from Donald Barthelme's short story "Perpetua," Tattoo Girl tells the story of a tattooed pinup girl on her journey through hops farmers, cathedral builders, the Loch Ness monster, and Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci.

The play runs Jan. 19-22 at 8 p.m. at the Aruba Hotel, 1215 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Cost is $12 ($10 in advance via PayPal on their website).

After the Friday and Saturday shows, the bar will host live music.

The Cannery turns 3

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The Cannery (2121 East Craig Rd., North Las Vegas) celebrates its 3rd anniversary today from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (though it actually opened Jan. 3, 2003).

Available to all players on the casino floor will be free champagne, cake, and t-shirts (while supplies last).

January 17, 2006

Hardwood Suite Bounces into The Palms

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The Palms' new $600 million, 347-room Fantasy Tower contains the Hardwood Suite, the only guest room anywhere containing an indoor basketball court.

The third-floor suite is a two-level, 10,000-square-foot room containing baksetball court, locker room, scoreboard, pool table, poker table, and dance floor.

If you need to sleep, it also contains three NBA-sized Murphy beds, a dining area, living/media room, Jacuzzi tub, and 42-inch plasma screens.

Customization is available, where you can design your own team jerseys, pre-stock your own bar, and invite themed cheerleaders to cheer you on... and not just with basketball.

No word on cost, but we're fairly certain it's one of those "if you have to ask, we'll have to kill you." Or was it, "If I tell you, you can't afford it"? Well, either way you'll be $50,000 per night lighter.

Tuscany $25,000 freeroll, Cracked Aces offer

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Tuscany's poker room (255 East Flamingo Rd.) offers a $25,000 Super Poker Freeroll to the top 60 poker players with at least 120 hours in live games (15 hours minimum per week) between Jan. 15 and March 18.

Ten alternates will be taken and will fill any of the 60 players' seats who do not show.

The tournament takes place Saturday, March 28.

Upon first glance, this seems like a poor deal. We posted before that Aladdin has a $50,000 freeroll for all players putting in 60 hours of live play. That's all players, not just the top 60.

And Aladdin's freeroll is double the money for half the play, which is double the pleasure, double the fun.

But... we're at Tuscany every week and have never seen more than two tables running at Tuscany (they've even added a blackjack table to the poker room), and we have strong reservations they'll even reach their 60.

And, you'll have $120 in comps to spend on anything in the casino.

If you play tournaments better with smaller fields, Tuscany may be just for you.

In other Tuscany news and a promotion we like much better, they offer $50 for Cracked Aces during these hours:

Noon to 2 p.m.
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
3 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Except for Excalibur, no other poker room in Vegas offers any consolation chips for cracked Aces. Cracked Aces at Excalibur gets you a free spin, with a minimum payout of $20 and maximum of $300 (hitting $100 after the triple).

January 16, 2006

Binion's Cash and Charger giveaway, free visor

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Binion's has a "January Cash and Charger" promotion, awarding $1,000 each to five people on Jan. 21 at 7:20 p.m. and 9:20 p.m., and a grand prize at the same times on Jan. 28.

The grand prize will have six winners, randomly drawn from a big drum in the following order:

1) 2006 Dodge Charger
2) $1,000
3) $1,500
4) $2,500
5) $5,000
6) $10,000

You must be present to win, and they'll keep drawing entries until the lucky winner screams and sprints down the aisle (they have two minutes to do so once their name is called).

Entries are earned for every 500 points accrued in slots or table games, redeemable at Club Binion's and placed into the drum the day of the drawing between noon and 9:19 p.m.

I'm generally not a big fan of drawings but do favor the Binon's visor promotion running the rest of this month. Sign up to receive a free player's card, then earn 50 points within 24 hours, and receive a free Binion's visor.

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(If you already have a Binion's card prior to last year before the new owners took over, you'll be able to apply for a new one... and of all the casino player's club cards, Binion's is the spiffiest, with see-through lettering.)

Every $1 played earns you two points, so the visor will cost you $25 in coin-in playthrough.

I tried this with the Phone Tag penny slot machine next to Club Binion's. I began with $10 and played 30 cents a pull and won $10.40 off the bat and thought this game was such a cinch, we should all give up our day jobs and become professional penny slot players.

Then came several spins without hitting anything. When the magical "Session: 50" came up on the card reader (I let it go to 51 just to be safe), I cashed out and headed to Club Binion's.

That's a far cry from the 500 points for a chance at the Charger, but I cashed out ahead $2 that paid for the valet tip and I'm now the proud owner of a sporty new Binion's green and black visor that I hope to eBay for millions of dollars.

Career Fair at Palace Station

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On Wednesday, Jan. 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Palace Station (2411 W. Sahara Ave.) hosts Las Vegas' premier Career Fair (upstairs next to the buffet).

Dozens of employers will be in attendance looking to fill positions from a variety of industries. All job seekers in all fields are sought.

Dress for an interview, bring resumes, and prepare to shake lots of hands.

Ready for a rundown of positions open? Here goes:

Sales Management, Financial Services, Accounting Managers, Management, Customer Service Reps, Direct Sales, Media Sales, Product Managers, Sales Tax Reporting, Retail, Financial Management, SQL Server, Leasing Agents, PowerPoint, Staffing, Closers,Human Resources, Retail Department Managers, Customer Service Specialists, Telecom, Treasurers, Recruiting Coordinators, Financial Reporting, Retail Trade, Sales Analyst, ACT, Commercial Services, Lead Generators, Certified Financial Planners, Consumer Products, Accounting Clerks, Advertising Account Executives, B2B Sales, Debt Specialists, Real Estate, Accounts Payable, Asset Based Financing, Restaurant Managers, Payroll, Shipping, Executive Search, Recruiting, Factoring Reps, Food Service, Servers, Transportation, Banks, Credit Analysts, Brokerage, CFPs, Fund Managers, Leasing Agents, Bankers, Top Producers, Traders, Customer Support, Bank Tellers, Cargo, Media, Management Trainees, Coordinators, Supervisors, Account Representatives, Airline Industry, Loan Officers, Financial Analysts, Refinancing, Real Estate Firms, Compliance Coordinators, Regulatory Firms, Banking, MS Office, Cash Flow, Manufacturing, Series 6, Series 63, Accounting Interns, Treasury, Brand Management, Microsoft Word, Securities Examiners, Property and Casualty, Personal Bankers, Inventory Control, Internships, Compensation Specialists, Credit Managers, Quickbooks, MBAs, Inside, Buyers, Investment Banking, Account Management, Distribution Reps, Money Managers, Cashiers, Technology, Internal Auditors, Hosts, Accounts Receivable, Telesales, Loan Processors, Account Executives, Assistant Managers, General Ledger, Brokers, Collections, Consultants, Purchasing Agents, Finance VPs, Forecasting, Travel, Microsoft Excel, Budgeting, Claims, Staff Accountants, Insurance, Sales Trainers, Check Processors, Call Center Reps, Travel Agents, Portfolio Managers, Excel, Consumer Services, Comptrollers, Billing Specialists, Business Services, Outlook, Cold Calling, Advertising Sales, Lenders, Merchandising, Processors, Directors, Mergers and Acquisitions, Series 7, Recruiting, Broker Trainees, Research Specialists, Loan Specialists, Hostesses, Underwriters, Real Estate Sales, Mortgage Banking, Operations Managers, Finance, Branch Management, Analysts, Outside, CFOs, Brand Managers, Business to Business Sales, Access, Cargo, Sales, Financial Advisors, Licensed Sales, Associates, Ph.D.s, Investment Bankers, Consulting, CFAs, Series 65, Medical Equipment Sales, Debt Consolidation Specialists, Property Managers, Loans, Tax, Receivables, Budget Managers, Bank Managers, Marketing, Bachelor Degrees, Auditors, Territory Managers, Collectors, Sales Reps, Retail Sales, Controllers, Hospitality Managers, Certified Public Accountants, Assets, Marketing Assistants, Account Managers, Advertising, Telemarketing, Accounting, Retail Management, Area Managers, Appointment Setters, Mortgage Banks, Clerks, Tax Specialists, Telecommunications, Marketing Coordinators

For more information, visit www.NationalCareerFairs.com.

Gold Coast hosts three tournaments and a $15,000 freeroll

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Gold Coast has three no-limit hold'em tournaments Jan. 19-22 with a final freeroll:

Jan. 19 at 6 p.m.: $60 + 10 freezeout ($1000 added)
Jan. 20 at 6 p.m.: $60 + 10 with one $50 rebuy ($1000 added)
Jan. 21 at 4 p.m.: $100 + 20 with one $100 rebuy ($1500 added)
Jan. 22 at noon: $15,000 freeroll for those who played all three events or received a bounty

January 13, 2006

Sam's Town auctions alpacas

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Who's your hairdresser and can you give us a referral?


No no, not another picture of Paris Hilton, but a real live alpaca.

Yep, we were unfamiliar too and had to look it up.

Alpacas are camel-ish, sheep-ish, llama-like furry creatures hailing from South America. They're domesticated and bred for their thick fiber, but careful sneaking up on them with shears because they'll spit in your eye. And alpaca spit isn't just saliva, it's a little bit of green vomit.

We bring this up because we literally stumbled on a pack of them taking over half the south parking garage at Sam's Town (5111 Boulder Hwy.) and discovered they're in town this weekend hoping to be adopted as part of the America's Choice Alpacas of America 2006 Production Auction.

Seminars include how to develop an effective advertising campaign, understanding camelid behavior, how to effectively online market your farm and your alpacas, converting farm visits to alpaca sales, what you need before you bring home your alpaca, and the advantage of alpaca fiber.

Viewings and sale registration is all day Jan. 13.

On Jan. 14 at noon, a slot tournament (with lunch and open bar) hosted by Alpacas of America offers over $50,000 in gift certificates that can be put toward an alpaca. A female alpaca will also be awarded to one lucky slot player.

The auction begins at 2:30 p.m., right after the tournament.

If you're in the market for alpacas and have large enough luggage to carry one home (the kids will love 'em), Sam's Town is the place to be Jan. 13-15.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrated downtown this weekend

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Tomorrow, Jan. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon is Las Vegas' annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. parade along Fourth St. downtown.

A series of free programs celebrating Dr. King's legacy and memory will also be presented on Jan. 15 with keynote speaker Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu.

A youth development workshop for children aged 10 to 18 will be held from 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the West Las Vegas Library Theatre (951 W. Lake Mead Blvd.).

From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., a workshop for young men will be held at the West Las Vegas Arts Center (947 W. Lake Mead Blvd.).

The day culminates with a cultural tribute to Dr. King at the West Las Vegas Library Theatre from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Call (702) 229-4800 for information and to register for the free workshops.

On Jan. 16 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Peace Fest 2006 takes place at the Clark County Community Resource Center (2432 N. Martin L. King Blvd.). Multiple vendors will be on hand providing family entertainment and activities including African dance ensembles, praise dancers, and spoken word.

A candlelight vigil with the Negro National Anthem around the statue of Dr. King concludes the ceremony.

For more information on Peace Fest, call Tanya Flanagan at (702) 455-7277 or Jani Jeppe at (702) 507-3980.

Playboy Playmate Cassandra Lynn, Stand-up Comedy at The Palms

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Tomorrow, Jan. 14 at 1 p.m., February 2006 Playboy Playmate Cassandra Lynn meets, greets, and autographs at the race and sportsbook at The Palms (a nifty new website design, by the way). Copies of the February Playboy will be available for purchase, just in case you didn't get yours in the mail.

At 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., Lynn introduces Playboy's Hollywood Comedy Tour, a new stand-up comedy show that will be at The Lounge once a month.

Tomorrow's show features Elon Gold ("Stacked"), Maz Jobrani ("Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "24") and is hosted by Cort McCown and Paul Hughes.

The autograph signing is free; the comedy show is $27.50 each and available at ticketmaster.com or the Palms Shop. There's a two-drink minimum and you must be at least 21.

Ethel M Chocolates and M&M's World job fair

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On Jan. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ethel M Chocolates and M&M's World is holding a job fair.

Come prepared and dressed to interview.

Flexible scheduling options, openings for retail sales associates, and, for Ethel M, multiple locations (M&M's World is located on the Strip at the Showcase Mall).

The job fair will be at Ethel M Chocolates, 1 Sunset Way, Henderson. If you can't make it Jan. 14, stop by any Ethel M store.

January 12, 2006

Paula Abdul led to casino firings

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The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that two employees were fired from Silverton because of Paula Abdul.

Carol Good and Damon Rosa were working graveyard when "American Idol" judge Abdul wanted to change her flight that was to leave in 100 minutes. Flight schedules were researched and printed for Abdul, but before they could take them to her, Abdul called down saying she'd checked with the airlines and they were all booked. She then blamed them for missing her plane.

Good and Rosa were suspended three days later and fired the day after that.

Silverton has been particularly keen to keep Abdul happy, as she's been rumored to be working on a three-year project that would bring a variety of her choreographed shows to Vegas, including Silverton.

$59 room rates at MGM Grand

mgmlogo.gifMGM Grand has a special offer for members only, but being a member just requires you to sign up for a player's card prior to check-in.

The offer is $59/night per room for selected dates through Feb. 26.

Each reservation includes a 2-for-1 coupon to the Grand Buffet, two free drinks at the West Wing Bar, and line passes to Studio 54, Tabu, and Teatro.

Book online at this site.

January 11, 2006

Castaways turns into 20,000 tons of rubble

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The Las Vegas Vegas Poker Blog reminisced about a 49-cent breakfast at Showboat, which became Castaways (eastern end of Fremont St.), and that it was set to implode at 7 a.m. today.

Opened in September 1954, Showboat was the first prominent casino away from the Strip and downtown. In April 1998, Harrah's bought Showboat Inc. (encompassing properties in Atlantic City and East Chicago), and in 1999, sold the Showboat in Las Vegas to VSS Enterprises, which changed the name to Castaways.

Castaways had been closed in bankruptcy since January 2004 when Station Casinos bought it in October 2004 for $33.7 million (after being in debt over $50 million). Station has not yet revealed plans for the 26-acre space, but implosion was inevitable because of the building's age and how it was built.

Since July 2005, pieces of the casino had been quietly removed (though quietly with a wrecking ball) and gutted from the bottom of the building, making for an odd sight.

The same company that imploded the old Desert Inn (where Wynn now resides) took on implosion duties for Castaways, and it went off without a hitch.

Eighteen seconds was all it took to bring down the 19-story, 447-room building, thanks to 191 detonations of 195 pounds of explosions on four floors.

The implosion was set to preserve the bowling alley, considered to be the casino's only asset.

$110 room rates at Mandalay Bay, $170 for THEhotel

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Mandalay Bay offers room rates for $109.95 and THEhotel for $169.95 on selected dates.

Each reservation includes a $50 dining credit, 2-for-1 spa pass, 10 percent off spa treatment, shopping certificates to Mandalay Place (worth $250), and $50 in airfare certificates.

Book by calling 1-877-632-7800 or via websites linked. Use offer PREJUVA for the regular rooms and PTHREJA for rooms at THEhotel.

$149 room rates at Venetian

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The Venetian offers $149/night Luxury or Bella suites in Venezia, their hotel-within-a-hotel.

Each reservation includes complimentary shoe shine, daily newspaper delivery, daily turndown service, free high-speed Internet access, 20 percent off at Wolfgang Puck's Postrio, and $25 in slot credits or table game matchplay.

Checking their website shows current dates available are Jan. 12, 15-19, 21-27, Feb. 6, 8, 14-16, and 19.

Reservations must be booked before Jan. 12 for stays through Feb. 19.

Book online or at 1-866-403-8046 with code GRED54D.

Buy 12 Lean Cuisines, get 2 Dreyers Ice Cream

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smithslogo.jpgThrough Jan. 12, Smith's Food and Drug Stores has an offer called "Eating better, feeling better."

You just buy 12 Stouffer's Lean Cuisine Entrees (6 oz. to 12.5 oz.) in one transaction, and you'll get two free Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, Yogurt, or Sorbet (1.75 quart). The Lean Cusines are on sale at about $1.89 each.

Eat better with the low-carb microwave dinners, then feel better with the high-carb ice cream?

Contradictory or not, we're taking full advantage and may have to move in a separate freezer to accommodate all the Lean Cuisines.

January 10, 2006

Paris Hilton's fiancee's underage investigation

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Authorities are investigating allegations that Paris Hilton's beau Stavros Niarchos III was snuck into clubs Tao (at Venetian) and Body English (at Hard Rock).

Niarchos is 19 years old, two years from the legal age to enter clubs in Vegas.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that Hilton was paid over $100,000 to host Tao's New Year's Eve party but that she didn't show for the midnight countdown because Niarchos wasn't allowed in.

The couple previously ran into a problem in November, when Niarchos dumped Hilton citing she was a "bad influence." Both were in Vegas at Hard Rock to celebrate Kelly Osbourne's 21st birthday, and Niarchos was stuck with a $100,000 bill after trashing a room over an argument that led to the breakup.

At the time, they had been seeing each other for one month. A month later, they had reconciled and became engaged.

That would be engagement #2, two months after Hilton broke off nuptials with Paris Latsis.

We're dizzy now and need a cocktail.

$139 room rates at Wynn Las Vegas

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Wynn has a special $139 per night offer on Resort Rooms booked for stays through Jan. 12 and between Jan. 15-18.

With each reservation also comes $50 in free casino credit.

Book online or at 1-866-770-7410 with promotions code K2T.

January 9, 2006

Bye-bye Boardwalk, Hello CityCenter

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The first casino of 2006 to go down is Boardwalk, owned by MGM-Mirage.

Trying to book a room there, we get the message, "We appear to be sold out on these dates."

But we know they're not really sold out, the rooms as well as the casino are just on the imploding block.

Boardwalk closes a few months earlier than speculated... so soon that it's noon today. Barring any Arthur Dents, the paving of Boardwalk will make way for MGM-Mirage's $6 billion Project CityCenter.

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Spanning the area between Bellagio and Monte Carlo, the Center will encompass 66 acres and include a 60-story, 4,000-room hotel-casino, three 400-room boutique hotels, 1,600 luxury condos, and 550,000 square feet of high-end retail and dining space, all under an urban setting.

When all is said and done, there could be as many as 50 new buildings with the tallest at 70 stories.

The first phase is expected to begin this summer and complete in 2009.

Las Vegas Realtor Arrested for Crime Committed 22 Years Ago

A strange, "My Name is Earl"ish story caught our eye and we felt compelled to post about it.

As part of an Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Las Vegas realtor William Beebe apologized to people he'd hurt, which included a woman he'd allegedly raped at a University of Virginia fraternity party... 22 years ago.

The victim was able to track down Beebe to Las Vegas and went to police with the information. In 1984, she had reported the crime to the university dean but didn't inform police.

With no statute of limitations on rape in Virginia, police arrested Beebe on a fugitive warrant and today is in court for extradition to face charges in Virginia.

January 6, 2006

Adult Entertainment Expo takes off today... $10 off

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The largest adult industry conference is back. The Adult Entertainment Expo runs today through Sunday, Jan. 8 at the Sands Expo Center (in Venetian).

See all the latest and greatest developments in adult entertainment. And meet, greet, and get autographs and photos with your favorite porn stars.

It all culminates with the 23rd Annual AVN Awards Show on Saturday.

Cost for the expo is $50 but if you purchase via their website, you can save $10.

Talent from the exhaustive list of attendees includes:

Acid Rain
Mya Luanna
Brooke Haven

Adam & Eve
Carmen Luvana
Austyn Moore
Nina Hartley
Charmane
Katie Morgan
Alexandra Silk

Amorz
Fujii Aya
Aoyama Yoko
Sakura Fujiko

Anabolic Video Productions
Kelsy Michaels
Haley Paige
Kat
Tiffany Holiday
Tia Takana
Alicia Angel
Alicia Alighotti
Kelly Wells

Black Widow Productions
Layla Jade
Lexi Lamour
Puma Swede
Tyler Faith
Katie Morgan

Cherry Boxxx/Baby Doll
Cytheria
Daisy

Cinderalla Distributors
Stephanie Tripp
Phyllisha Ann
Phoenix Ray

Club/Pulse
Gina Lynn

Colossal Entertainment
Mika Tan
Brooke
Vivian West
Sara Stone

Damaged Productions
Nikita Lee

Dane Productions
The Nasty Boyz
Big Daddy Mac Nasty & his wayward son Nick Nasty

Digital Playground
Jesse Jane
Janine
Teagan Presley
Jana Cova
Sophia Santi

Dragon Novelties
Dana Vespoli

Elegant Angel
Liana Lynn
Kinzie Kenner
Sammie Rhodes
Hillary Scott
Flower Tucci
Kami Andrews

ENCAE Studios
Viddy Vincent
Jenitalia Li
Caressa

Erotique Photography
Lauren Kain
Sarah Rose
Angelique Monet

Exquisite/Gina Lynn Productions
Gina Lynn

Hot House Entertainment
Marco Paris
Akex Fuerte
Alex Collack

Hustler Video
Larry Flynt
Kayden Kross
Memphis Monroe
Joey Hart

I Distribution
Tal
Todd
Models from Flava

I Love Gauge.com
Gauge
Aurora Snow
Brandy Lyons

JadedVideo.com
The Jaded Girls

Kick Ass Pictures
Gen Padova
Bianca Pureheart

Las Vegas Confidential
Andrea
Ashton
Minnie
Bella Starr
Chloe

Lifestyles Organization
Ms. Lifestyles

Madness Pictures
Shy Love
Loni
Nyomi Marcela
Destiny

Maverick Pictures
Julie Robbins

Metro Interactive
Ron Jeremy
Rob Rotten
Regan Reece
Ashley Steele
Eva Angelina
Britney Foster

Multimedia Pictures
Jim Powers
Brook Hunter
Sasha Knox
Chocolate
Mocha

New Machine
Jade Hsu
Randy West

NJ Films
Michelle Lay

Old Pueblo Distribution
Aimee Sweet
Rebecca Hilton
Jelena Jensen
Erin Dayo
Jen Stephens
Raven
Lisa Sparxx

Penthouse Media Group
Jamie Lynn
Cassia Riley
Charlie Lane
Heather Vandeven
Martina Warren
Bella Starr
Melissa Jacobs
Courtney Taylor
Sunny Leone
Cheyenne Silver
Kellie Marie
Linn Thomas

Platinum X
Bambi
Candy Manson
Hillary Scott
Marquetta Jewel
Selena Silver
Tori Lane
Brandon Iron
John Strong
Sean Michaels
Toni Ribas
Kylie Ireland
Jewe

Claudia Costa, Kristy Dwyer at Tangerine

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Claudia Costa's Christmas photo.


Tonight, Claudia Costa and Kristy Dwyer are featured at the Tangerine lounge and nightclub at Treasure Island.

Costa was Playboy's cybergirl of March 2004, and Dwyer is featured in upcoming Playboy special editions.

Dwyer, whose website is in development at kristy-dwyer.com, notes that she's "100 percent natural."

Free buffets still at Wynn


As first mentioned in this post, there have been reports that the two free Wynn buffets for your first 50 earned points has been cancelled.

Turns out the offer was just temporarily halted over the holidays and is now back running.

The only change is that you must consume the comps Monday through Friday.

Everything else remains the same -- get a new player's card at the Red Card desk and use it to play slots or video poker. Get to 50 points, go back to the desk, and cash in your two free buffets.

Points accrue at $9 per point for video poker ($450 playthrough) or $3 per point for slots ($150 playthrough).

But hurry -- this is an unadvertised offer and Wynn could pull it at any moment (best first to confirm when you first pick up your card).

January 5, 2006

Aurora Snow topless at Pleasures

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We feel it's our civic duty to let you know that porn star Aurora Snow will be onstage at the gentlemen's club Pleasures (Las Vegas Blvd. and Sunset Rd., 702-873-8800) tonight through Jan. 7.

Other goings-on at Pleasures include "The Hottest Wet T-Shirt Contest in Vegas" on Monday nights. Sponsored by KOMP-92.7 radio and Budweiser, a prize of $1,000 is at stake.

And brush up your Gwen Stefani, with Stripper Karaoke on Jan. 14 and 28, with a $500 prize.

Free popcorn and $5 movies at Neonopolis

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The Crown Theatres at Neonopolis, the $100 million complex located at the west end of Fremont Street downtown, offers $5 movies every Tuesday for all showtimes.

Submit your email address and receive a printable coupon for a free medium popcorn.

Regular ticket prices are $8.50 for adults, $5.50 for matinees (before 6 p.m.) and children age 3-11 and seniors 62 and over.

Twilite shows (the last matinee of the day) are $5.

Seniors receive $5 tickets all day Thursday.

If you're a casino employee and flash a badge or if you're a student with a current college I.D., you'll get $5 movies whenever you want.

Parking is available beneath Neonopolis, and three-hour passes are available at the movie theater. Being extra friendly to the cashier will score you an additional pass, which will let you roam around downtown for another three hours.

Current flicks this week include Aeon Flux, Cheaper by the Dozen 2, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Family Stone, Fun with Dick & Jane, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, King Kong, Memoirs of a Geisha, The Ringer, Rumor Has It, Syriana, Wolf Creek, and Yours, Mine & Ours.

Rarely are any of these theaters crowded, and oftentimes you'll feel like you're getting your very own private screening.

January 4, 2006

Consumer Electronics Show returns

ces.jpgThe biggest annual trade show is back, eclipsing even last year's.

Tomorrow begins the four-day International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), bringing over 130,000 people, 300 companies, and 2,500 vendors across 28 football fields of space showcasing the latest in upcoming electronics.

Expect to see latest models of the now-outdated cell phone in your pocket, along with cameras, high-definition, videogame consoles, computers, home networking, portable media, and much more.

Particularly showcased will be HDTV, video on-demand services, and Intel's new Viiv entertainment PC brand.

Other consumer gadgets include a new alphabetical keyboard prototype, a book scanner that turns pages after it scans, and a 3D technology that can be viewed as a regular image without the glasses.

CES takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center (3150 Paradise Rd., off the monorail) and the Sands Expo Center (The Venetian) on the following dates:

Thursday, Jan. 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 7, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hard Rock 10 percent off store coupon


The inside front cover of the Jan. 4 edition of Las Vegas Weekly (available for free at many off-Strip casinos and movie theaters) as well as inside What's On magazine has an ad for 10 percent off any of Hard Rock Casino's retail stores.

These include Love Jones, Cuba Libre, Pink Taco, Rocks Jewelers, The Retail Store, The Rock Spa, and Brannon Salon.

The ad does not state an expiration date.

January 3, 2006

Harrah's free shuttle bus expands locations

The free shuttle that went from Harrah's to Rio and back every 15 minutes has now expanded to Caesars Palace, Bally's, and Paris.

Pick-up times are every 30 minutes from each casino. No luggage is allowed.

Shuttle times run Monday-Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Thursday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m.

Where to pick up the shuttle:

Harrah's: Shuttle/Bus/Trolley drop off
Rio: Carnival World Buffet entrance
Bally's/Paris: Limousine entrance
Caesars Palace: Augusta Tower valet entrance

In related Harrah's news, we've also heard rumors of a linked bad beat jumbo jackpot between their poker rooms, a la Station Casinos. But that's just hearsay...

Watch Las Vegas New Year's Eve fireworks

Happy New Year!

The fireworks went off without a hitch after heavy winds and rain threatened a cancellation.

Fortunately, the weather cleared to a beautiful dark sky, and at midnight the Fireworks by Grucci spectacularly displayed in syncopation across 10 different casino rooftops.

Local station Channel 8 KSLA provided live coverage which was simulcast to thousands more revelers on the large screen at the Fremont Street Experience.

If you missed all this, you can view Channel 8's footage via streaming video at their website. Though decidedly smaller than the Fremont screen, it still shows off the beauty of Las Vegas. But careful, it may make you plan to be on the Strip on Dec. 31, 2006.