Las Vegas NV USA

2012-02-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

Monte Carlo

2012-02-11T09:46:00.001-08:00

Everyone’s a VIP this March as Monte Carlo Resort and Casino marks a month-long celebration filled with contests, events and surprise giveaways during the resort’s self-proclaimed “National VIP Month.”

“National VIP Month at Monte Carlo is a fun and exciting way to celebrate and reward our guests,” said Anton Nikodemus, the resort’s president and COO. “Every guest is a VIP in our eyes, every day of the year and we look forward to celebrating them.”

Guests of Monte Carlo will have the opportunity to live like Vegas VIPs throughout the month with unexpected rewards. The surprises begin upon arrival as VIP room keys are intermixed with regular keys and are randomly distributed to lucky guests at check-in. These VIP keys unlock the fun with access to all-day happy hour at The Pub at Monte Carlo, 15% off select retail outlets, 20% off packages at Minus5 Ice Bar and 15% off food items at d.vino Italian Food & Wine Bar and Dragon Noodle Co. & Sushi Bar.

On Thursdays throughout the month, masks from the world-famous dance crew Jabbawockeez will be carefully hidden across Monte Carlo for savvy guests to find during social media scavenger hunts. Guests will be given a chance to win complimentary tickets to that evening’s performance.

The celebrations during VIP Month extend into several of Monte Carlo’s restaurants. Lucky diners will randomly be selected to top off their meal with a free entrée or beer at The Pub or a free appetizer at The Café. The party continues with two-for-one vodka martinis at Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge or 10% off their bill at d.vino Italian Food & Wine Bar and Dragon Noodle Co. & Sushi Bar. VIPs can also keep it cool at Minus5 Ice Bar with two-for-one entry to the frozen hot spot throughout March.

Guests looking to get in on the special treatment are invited to reserve the VIP Room Package featuring accommodations up to 15% off, a VIP card to The Pub, 2-for-1 Raft Rentals at the pool, 2-for-1 Entrees at The Café and 20% off select spa services at The Spa. Expect a few cool surprises upon check-in too.

Culminating the celebration, the lucky 10,000th guest that checks in during March will be rewarded with the ultimate VIP experience - a complimentary upgrade to the exclusive HOTEL32, flowers upon arrival and a surprise greeting.

The month-long celebration at Monte Carlo will lead up to “National VIP Day” on March 26 (recognized nationally as Name Your Holiday Day) where lucky guests will randomly receive tickets to Jabbawockeez upon check-in while others may enjoy a complimentary dessert while dining at Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge.

VIP Month will go out with a bang March 31 at the complimentary VIP Pool Party for all Monte Carlo and New York-New York guests including those enjoying their Spring Break Escape package. Throughout the day DJs will spin the hottest beats as party-goers enjoy poolside BBQ, drink and cabana specials and cool giveaway items. A red carpet filled with fun props will be rolled out for all guests to capture those special VIP moments. Guests can enter online for a chance to win the “Vastly Impressive Penthouse” or other VIP experiences.

Packages are based on availability and subject to blackout dates. Guests must be 21 or older to reserve these offers. Packages are non-transferable and may not be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions including those from other MGM Resorts International destinations. To book your Monte Carlo VIP Package, visit montecarlo.com/vip.

Vegas Happenings

2012-02-05T10:54:00.000-08:00

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Debuts Pop-Up Wedding Chapel
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is welcoming weddings of all kinds to the new Strip-level wedding chapel. Packages begin at just $80 and include weddings, vow renewals and even faux ceremonies. Also available is a retail store with all of the necessities for a ceremony. For more information, contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak Communications, thecosmopolitan@kirvindoak.com.

The Chuck Jones Experience Opens at Circus Circus
The Chuck Jones Experience is a nearly 10,000-square-foot place to learn about the art of animation. The Chuck Jones Experience takes visitors on a unique journey through Jones' life, engaging guests with interactive exhibits, displays and learning experiences along the way. The Experience is also home to the largest collection of original Chuck Jones animation and fine art anywhere in the world with more than 250 pieces on permanent display. For more information, contact Kim Sudhalter, Urban Legend PR ,kim@urbanlegendpr.com

Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure Opens at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
After 14 successful years, Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure has expanded its operations with the opening of their new Las Vegas hub. The Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure offers racing fans the opportunity to race an authentic race car on a major racetrack. Guests will learn to race like NASCAR drivers, find the line, draft, and pass for optimum fun. Packages are available for a 4-lap ride along all the way up to a 60-lap driving experience. For more information, contact Jeff Klein, PR Plus, Jeff@prplus.com.

Oscar’s Beef • Booze •Broads Opens at Plaza Hotel & Casino
Former Las Vegas Mayor, Oscar Goodman, opened Oscar's Beef · Booze ·Broads, a steakhouse inside the iconic dome of the Plaza Hotel and Casino, overlooking Fremont Street and the heart of his beloved downtown Las Vegas. The restaurant's entrées and appetizers are inspired by family recipes and tailored to meet the tastes of even the most discerning diners. For more information, contact Amy Maier, B&P Public Relations, amaier@bpadlv.com.

Bellagio Completes $70 Million Room Remodel
Bellagio has completed the remodel of all 2,568 rooms in its main tower, offering guests a fresh collection of newly redesigned deluxe accommodations. The new rooms reflect an updated, elegant feel pairing modern conveniences with the warmth of home. The remodel, totaling approximately $70 million, began in June 2011 and took six months to complete. For more information, contact Stacy Hamilton, MGM Resorts International, shamilton@mgmresorts.com.

Las Vegas to Celebrate Muhammad Ali’s 70th Birthday
Muhammad Ali's 70th Birthday Celebration will be held at MGM Grand. The event will celebrate the life and legacy of "The Greatest," Muhammad Ali at the 16th annual Power of Love Gala on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, while raising funds in support of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health and the Muhammad Ali Center. The celebration is designed to honor the boxing legend's contribution to the world and raise awareness for Alzheimer's, Huntington's, ALS, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's. For more information, contact Kate Whiteley, Kirvin Doak Communications, kwhiteley@kirvindoak.com.

Las Vegas Hilton Debuts New Name
On Jan. 3, The Las Vegas Hilton became known as the LVH, Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. Along with the new name came a new website, www.thelvh.com. For more information, contact Marty Garay, LVH, marty@thelvh.com.

Mob Museum Scheduled to Open Feb. 14
The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement is scheduled to open to the public on Feb. 14. To celebrate the opening, seven lucky couples will participate in a wedding in the courthouse of the museum, officiated by former Las Vegas Mayor, Oscar Goodman. For more information, contact Ceres Hill, Mob Museum, cereshill@themobmuseum.org.

USA Sevens Rugby Tournament Stops in Las Vegas
The USA Sevens international rugby tournament in Las Vegas is the fifth of nine stops on the 2011-12 HSBC Sevens World Series. The three-day tournament, Feb 10-12, is the only North American stop for the Sevens World Series. As the premier rugby tournament in North America, fans will see 16 national teams play 44 matches during the three-day competition in an attempt to gain points in the Sevens World Series standings. For more information, contact Michael Mack, Las Vegas Events, Michael@lasvegasevents.com.

Las Vegas Mayor’s Cup International Soccer Tournament Returns
The City of Las Vegas Mayor's Cup International Showcase, is a youth soccer tournament co-hosted by the City of Las Vegas and Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club, Feb. 17-20. For the 12th year in a row the Showcase tournament brings together more than 350 teams from around the world to play before college coaches and recruiters. For more information, contact Michael Mack, Las Vegas Events, Michael@lasvegasevents.com.

Las Vegas 2012

2012-01-03T14:03:00.000-08:00

Bellagio Introduces Three New Songs to the Fountains at Bellagio
For the first time in six years, the Fountains at Bellagio will perform new numbers. Beginning this month, "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" by The Beatles, "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson and "In the Mood" by Glenn Miller will be inserted into the rotation. For more information, please contact Sara Gorgon, MGM Resorts International, sgorgon@mgmresorts.com.

Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace to Open Jan. 2
Octavius Tower, the sixth hotel tower at Caesars Palace is scheduled to open Jan. 2, 2012, adding 668 rooms to the property. Guests staying in the Octavius tower will have a private entrance, separate hotel lobby, direct access to the Garden of the Gods pool oasis and an innovative in-room MediaHub. For more information, contact Leslie Thuet, Caesars Entertainment, LThuet@Caesars.com.

Fremont Street Experience to Celebrate Chinese New Year
Fremont Street Experience, CHD, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and Golden Catalyst are bringing the first-ever Chinese New Year celebration to Downtown Las Vegas. Chinese New Year - Dragon in the Desert will celebrate the Year of the Dragon from Jan. 24 - 28 with a five-day festival featuring many of the traditional and symbolic elements needed to wish good fortune to all. Opening ceremonies will take place Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. Those in attendance will welcome the New Year with a live authentic dragon dance that includes virtual firecrackers on Viva Vision, an eye painting ceremony and a parade of performers dressed in elaborate costumes. For more information, contact Mindy Eras, Preferred Public Relations, mindy@preferredpublicrelations.com.

New Nightlife Venues Open on the Strip
New Year's Eve marked the opening of three new nightlife venues on the Las Vegas Strip: RPM Nightclub at Tropicana, Hyde Lounge at Bellagio and 1OAK at Mirage. For more information, please contact Jennifer Polito jenniferp@preferredpublicrelations.com, Natalie Mounier (702) 737-3100 and David Gonzalez dgonzalez@mgmresorts.com.

Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace Now Open
Old Homestead Steakhouse, one of New York City's most historic restaurants, recently opened its first location on the west coast at Caesars Palace. With more than 6,000 square feet, the new restaurant features a total of 250 seats with a full dining room, private dining room, lounge and bar. Guests will be introduced to several signature dishes from the classic New York City menu including the popular colossal crab cake, 32-ounce Gotham rib-eye steak and the Old Homestead New York-style cheesecake. Additionally, new menu items will be created exclusive to the Las Vegas location. For more information contact Brandy Bell, Caesars Entertainment, bbell3@Caesars.com.

Jersey Boys Moves to Paris Las Vegas
The smash-hit Jersey Boys is moving to a new home at Paris Las Vegas this spring and tickets are now available. The award-winning musical will begin performances in the Paris Théâtre on March 6, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. The production's run at The Palazzo Las Vegas concluded on January 1, 2012. For more information contact Kelly Frey, Caesars Entertainment, kfrey@caesars.com.

Buffalo Bill’s Unveils Major Resort Renovations
Primm Valley Casino Resorts continues its mission of improving guests' experience with rejuvenated offerings and significant upgrades throughout Buffalo Bill's Resort and Casino. The casino resort recently unveiled renovations to rooms and dining options as well as a refreshed casino floor and additional major projects. Included in the project was a redesign of the casino layout, addition of a party pit on the gaming floor, upgrade in the Attraction Zone Arcade, new carpet, upgraded restroom facilities, new beds and an expanded retail facility. For additional information contact Alison Monaghan, Kirvin Doak Communications, amonaghan@kirvindoak.com.

Aston MonteLago Village Resort Launches “Make Room for Breakfast” Package
Aston MonteLago Village Resort is set to launch its 'Make Room for Breakfast' promotion for those looking to get away. Guests can book a one night stay which includes a complimentary breakfast for two at Harry's Café starting at a special rate of $101 per night for a spacious Luna di Lusso studio. For additional information contact Alissa Kelly, PR Plus, Alissa@prpluslv.com.

Miss America Pageant at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
The 2012 Miss America Pageant promises to be a vibrant, colorful and exciting event. The final night of competition will broadcast live from Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino on Saturday, Jan. 14 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC. Celebrity judges evaluating the competition include: Mark Ballas, ABC's Dancing with the Stars; Raúl de Molina, Univision's El Gordo y La Flaca; Mike Fleiss, Executive Producer of ABC's The Bachelor; Kris Jenner, E!'s Keeping Up With The Kardashians; Teri Polo, ABC's Man Up; Chris Powell, ABC's Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition; and Lara Spencer, ABC's Good Morning America. For more information contact Kelly Frey, Caesars Entertainment, kfrey@caesars.com.

Mirage Offers Yoga Class with Dolphin Views
The Spa at The Mirage Hotel & Casino is now offering a new, one-of-a-kind class, Yoga Among the Dolphins, offered in a serene, underwater viewing area within Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. The class is offered Friday through Sunday at 8:30 a.m. The 60-minute classes are open to the public and can be customized to accommodate all skill levels. The cost is $50 per person and includes use of a yoga mat, post-class smoothie and day pass for the fitness center, spa vanity, wet areas and lockers. For more information contact Sara Gorgon, MGM Resorts International, sgorgon@mgmresorts.com.

El Cortez Celebrates 70 Years in Operation
The El Cortez recently celebrated 70 years of operation in Las Vegas, securing the title for the oldest continuously operating hotel-casino in the city. The property originally opened in 1941 and was owned by notorious mobsters Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky, Gus Greenbaum and Mo Sedway. Keeping with the traditional theme, the El Cortez has undergone a complete property renovation and had played a key role in the revitalization of downtown Las Vegas. For more information contact Matt Guidish, Kirvin Doak Communications, mguidish@kirvindoak.com.

**PHOTOS & B-ROLL AVAILABLE**
Need Las Vegas photos or b-roll for your story? Let us help. The LVCVA has redesigned its press room to include a new media center allowing journalists to download photos and video of special events. While you're on the LVCVA site, be sure to check out our online press kit for the latest information about Las Vegas.

Mirage

2011-08-20T15:08:00.001-07:00

THE MIRAGE’S NEWEST DOLPHIN CALF NAMED AS PART OF SPECIAL M LIFE MOMENT

M life, MGM Resort International’s Loyalty Program,
Provides One Member with Lasting Memory

Click to Tweet: Dolphin calf @TheMirageLV named "K2" by M life member as part of special #Mlife moment. http://pitch.pe/165184

LAS VEGAS (August 8, 2011) – A moment to last a lifetime. We all have memories we will never forget, and MGM Resorts International is providing guests the chance to live some of those special life moments at their 15 participating properties through M life, their new loyalty program. One such moment arose recently when an M life member had the unprecedented opportunity to name the bottlenose dolphin calf born July 3 at Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage.

M life’s popular program, M life Moments, offers experiential opportunities for members to see or do things they may not otherwise have the chance to do, such as
take private dance lessons with the world-famous Jabbawockeez, cook alongside one of the country’s top chefs or sit ringside at a championship boxing match.

The birth of The Mirage’s dolphin calf provided this type of special moment for one lucky M life member and his wife, Mike and Cheryl Mendez from Scottsdale, Ariz. After learning they were chosen, the couple decided on the name, K2, in tribute to the charity organization, K2 Adventures Foundation.

“We are honored to be given the opportunity to name the newest addition to The Mirage,” Michael Mendez said. “The name was selected in honor of a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based organization near and dear to our hearts.”

K2, alongside mother Duchess, is in the Birthing and Research pool, which is open to public viewing during regular operational hours of the facility. The Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage is accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, an international association dedicated to the highest standards of care for marine mammals and to their conservation in the wild through public education, scientific study and wildlife presentations.

Bill Hornbuckle, Chief Marketing Officer for MGM Resorts International, said, “With a collection of resorts and amenities unlike any other company in the world, we are able to create unique moments for our guests. Naming the newest dolphin calf at The Mirage is just one example of how we provide extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences our guests can’t get anywhere else.”

August 2011

2011-08-03T15:24:00.001-07:00

Caesars Palace & Nobu Hospitality Execute Agreements for New Hotel Concept
Caesars Palace and Nobu Hospitality executed definitive agreements to create the first-ever Nobu Hotel, Restaurant and Lounge in Las Vegas. This unique boutique-style hotel is set to open summer of 2012. This innovative concept will combine the world's first Nobu Hotel with the first Nobu restaurant and lounge on the Las Vegas Strip. David Rockwell of the Rockwell Group will lead the overall interior design of the 180-room Nobu Hotel. The 11,200 square foot Nobu restaurant and lounge, located in the heart of the Nobu Hotel, will be the ideal destination to be seen, socialize, and enjoy the unique cuisine of celebrated Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. For more information, please contact Celena Haas, Caesars Entertainment, chaas@caesars.com.

Rice & Company Opens at Luxor Hotel and Casino
Rice & Company, a 10,000-square-foot Asian bistro, has opened at Luxor Hotel and Casino. The restaurant, sushi bar and lounge offers contemporary Chinese and Japanese cuisine, an array of sushi and sashimi selections, and an expansive sake menu. Rice & Company is the newest dining concept by food and beverage industry veteran and restaurateur David Wu. The restaurant will be located on the Luxor's second level at the entryway to The Shoppes at Mandalay Bay. For more information, please contact Abigail Miller, Wicked Creative, aigail.miller@wickedcreative.com.

Central Michel Richard to Debut at Caesars Palace in September
Central (sen-TRAL) Michel Richard at Caesars Palace will make its grand entrance on the global culinary stage this September. The James Beard award-winning Chef Michel Richard is integral in the creation of this new restaurant concept that will showcase his signature American cuisine with a French accent-and will do so around the clock. Central will be the first restaurant ever helmed by a James Beard award-winning chef to keep its doors open 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Crafted to be not only delicious, but also-in Richard's own words "unpretentious and fun,"-breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night menus will feature all the dishes he is known for at Central in Washington, D.C., plus a substantial number of new dishes created especially for the Caesars Palace location. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Vox Solid Communications, mnicola@wearevoxsolid.com.

Flamingo Las Vegas Announces Plans to Open First West Coast Carlos 'n Charlie's
Flamingo Las Vegas has announced plans to open the first West Coast location of the high-energy Mexican eatery, Carlos 'n Charlie's. The restaurant and bar will make its debut later this winter. Located adjacent to the Race & Sports Book, Carlos 'n Charlie's will span more than 8,000 square feet serving lunch and dinner nightly. The menu will offer a wide variety of authentic Mexican favorites. Guests can also create their own tableside guacamole with Carlos 'n Charlie's interactive guacamole cart, for the perfect unique blend. Partygoers will enjoy the extensive bar menu featuring margaritas, sangria and a lengthy selection of signature cocktails. For more information, please contact Celena Haas, Caesars Entertainment, chaas@caesars.com.

La Cage to Re-emerge at the Four Queens Hotel and Casino
An Evening at La Cage, the world-famous Las Vegas extravaganza, brings its glitz and glamour to the Four Queens Hotel & Casino. The show had been on hiatus since it closed at the Riviera two years ago. An Evening at La Cage features the most amazing female impersonators, celebrity look-alikes and tribute artists alive today in a top-notch performance of nonstop music, dance and comedy. Produced by Starr Pro Productions, with a special licensing agreement with longtime producer Norbert Aleman, La Cage will star Jimmy Emerson, the internationally known comedian and impressionist. For more information, please contact Krista Gilbertson, PR Plus, Krista@prpluslv.com.

MGM Resorts International Installs First Personal Electric Vehicle Charging Station
MGM Resorts International has introduced the company's first Electric Vehicle Charging Station and the first such facility on the Las Vegas Strip for environmentally conscious consumers. This new Charging Station is located at the valet entrance to The Shoppes at Mandalay Place, between Mandalay Bay and Luxor resorts. Charging service is available free of charge to retail and resort customers driving personal electric vehicles, like the Nissan LEAF and the Chevy Volt. To take advantage of this new amenity, drivers simply pull into one of the two specially designated parking spaces reserved exclusively for personal electric vehicles and plug into the easy-to-use PEP Station to charge their vehicle. Each station has a touch-screen interface that guides users through steps to safely charge their electric vehicle. For more information, please contact Gordon Absher, MGM Resorts International, gabsher@mgmresorts.com.

Zebra Shark Pups are Newest Additions at Shark Reef Aquarium
Three male Zebra Shark pups are the newest addition to the Shark Reef Aquarium Touch Pool at Mandalay Bay, following in the paths of their parents who were among the attraction's original residents when the facility opened in 2000. The parents currently reside in the Shipwreck exhibit where the eggs were laid last fall. Staff divers removed the eggs which were taken to the facility's on-site Husbandry Center for care and observation until they hatched in January. The pups will remain on exhibit in the Touch Pool until they are ready for transfer this fall to another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility. For more information, please contact Wendie Mosca, MGM Resorts International, wmosca@mgmresorts.com.

Dolphin Calf Makes a Splash at The Mirage
A male dolphin calf was born July 3 to Duchess, matriarch of the bottlenose dolphin family at Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. Duchess, an experienced mother, and her calf are in the Birthing and Research pool which is open to public viewing during regular operational hours of the facility. Plans for naming the calf will be announced at a later date. For more information, please contact Wendie Mosca, MGM Resorts International, wmosca@mgmresorts.com.

Grand Canyon Coaches to Launch New Fleet of Premium Mini-Coaches
Grand Canyon Coaches will launch its brand-new fleet of premium mini-coaches this August. Consisting of nearly 30 new vehicles, each seating up to 13 passengers, the new vehicles will provide an exclusive ground tour experience for the discerning traveler. For Southern Nevada travelers, all tours will originate from Papillon Aerocenter in Boulder City. All tours include complimentary round-trip shuttle transportation from most Las Vegas hotels and casinos. Tours include West Rim Eldorado Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Grand Canyon. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Vox Solid Communications, mnicola@wearevoxsolid.com.

Caesars Entertainment Launches Las Vegas Trade Website for Travel Agents
Caesars Entertainment Corporation has announced the launch of CaesarsTravelAgents.com, a website created specifically for travel agents. The site provides direct access to customized offers and promotions from their origin destination and up-to-date news and access to sales resources. The site offers travel agents a central place to find relevant information including agent commissions, selling tips and the latest news from the world of Caesars Entertainment. For more information, please contact Leslie Thuet, Caesars Entertainment, lthuet@caesars.com.

Fifth Annual Women of Color Conference Returns to Mandalay Bay
The MGM Resorts Foundation has announced its fifth annual Women of Color Conference to be held Aug. 1-3 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Providing a forum for career and professional women to network with peers as well as internationally known authors, career coaches, image consultants, business development experts and motivational speakers, the conference is open to the public. For more information, please contact Erika Pope, Vox Solid Communications, epope@wearevoxsolid.com.

Mrs. United States Pageant Celebrates its 25th Anniversary in Las Vegas
The Mrs. Unites States Pageant will celebrate 25 years at the Las Vegas Hilton on Aug. 4, 2011. The pageant, which honors the contributions and achievements of America's married women, will feature 54 representatives from every state and U.S. territories. For more information, please contact Isabella Iiacqua, Mrs. United States Pageant, ii@mrsunitedstates.com.

Gay Nights Lights Up Las Vegas, August 4-7
Las Vegas welcomes Gay Nights Las Vegas, presented by MGM Resorts International, an indulgent four-day party weekend for the LGBT community, Aug. 4-7. Gay Nights will offer special events and promotions at several MGM Resorts properties including ARIA Resort & Casino, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, New York-New York, Luxor and Crystals at CityCenter. The weekend includes spectacular LGBT pool and nightclub parties, exclusive meet and greets with Cirque du Soleil performers and Dine OUT, the ultimate social dine-around. For more information, please contact David Gonzalez, MGM Resorts International, dgonzalez@mgmresorts.com.

Tropicana Las Vegas to Host Vegas Cine Fest
Serving as a springboard for many of tomorrow's top filmmakers, the third annual Vegas Cine Fest will be held at the all-new Tropicana Las Vegas Resort and Casino Aug. 25-27. The festival will feature premiere screenings, Q&A sessions and themed after-parties at Club Nikki. The three-day event will conclude with a Gala Awards Ceremony, with awards presented to winners in the Feature Film, Featurette, Film Shorts, Screenplay and Music Video categories. For more information, please contact Jennifer Polito, Preferred Public Relations, jenniferp@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Las Vegas Restaurant Week Celebrates 5th Anniversary
Lauded as one of the best culinary cities in America, fine dining perennially tempts travelers to the "Entertainment Capital of the World." On August 29, gourmands will have yet another reason to visit when the Fifth Annual Las Vegas Restaurant Week begins. This year, Las Vegas Restaurant Week is a two-week celebration ending Sept. 11. More than 40 participating restaurants will offer three-course menus for $20.11, $30.11 or $50.11. Portions of the proceeds will benefit local food bank, Three Square, which provides meals for more than 300,000 men, women and children struggling with hunger in Southern Nevada. For more information, please visit www.helpoutdineoutlv.org.

**PHOTOS & B-ROLL AVAILABLE**
Need Las Vegas photos or b-roll for your story? Let us help. The LVCVA has redesigned its press room to include a new media center allowing journalists to download photos and video of special events. While you're on the LVCVA site, be sure to check out our online press kit for the latest information about Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Happenings

2010-08-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

Boutique Resort RUMOR Debuts
The Siegel Group has opened boutique resort RUMOR located near Paradise Road and Harmon Avenue. Formerly the St. Tropez Hotel, the two-story resort features 150 suites, an intimate lobby and bar, a new restaurant called Addiction, and an outdoor courtyard with pool area, which transforms into a nightlife venue with live DJs and musicians. RUMOR also welcomes pets, offering an outdoor dog run, customized in-suite bowls and plush dog beds. RUMOR is an 18 and over resort. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Wagner Junker Agency, marina@wjagency.com.

South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa Announces Expansion
South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa has announced a two-phase expansion of its casino and restaurant offerings. The first phase includes a $20 million, 55,000-square-foot expansion of the casino, adding 600 slot machines, a new poker room, a new race and sports book and an entertainment area. The second phase includes the addition of a Steak 'n Shake restaurant brand and a future Japanese restaurant to open in the fall. For more information, please contact Courtney Fitzgerald, South Point Hotel & Casino, fitzgeraldc@southpointcasino.com.

Minus5 to Open Second Las Vegas Location at Monte Carlo
Minus5, which opened America's first ice lounge at Mandalay Bay in September 2008, will debut their newest location - Minus5 Ice Bar - this August at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. The new Minus5 Ice Bar will include a 1,200-square foot ice encased room where everything is made of 100% Canadian ice including the bar, tables, benches, and walls. Created in New Zealand, Minus5 is a unique ice-themed experience where guests enjoy vodka cocktails served in a glass made of pure ice, all within a -5° Celsius (23° Fahrenheit) ice environment. For more information, please contact Rosalind Terlitzky, Langdon Flynn Communications, rosalind@langdonflynn.com.

Bellagio Launches FlyteChannel featuring Live Airport Arrival and Departure Screens
Adding to the amenities Bellagio offers, guests now have the convenience of viewing live airport arrival and departure screens without leaving their room. FlyteChannel, on channel 50 in guest rooms, shows cities, flight numbers, scheduled and actual arrival/departure times, airline logos, and gates. Flights are sorted by city names to allow guests to quickly check flights and identify alternative flights if necessary. FlyteChannel is currently available in all guest rooms. For more information, please contact Wendy Zamaripa, Kirvin Doak Communications, wzamaripa@kirvindoak.com.

Le Rêve Presents the Ultimate SCUBA Experience
Wynn Las Vegas' show, Le Rêve, is giving certified SCUBA divers the opportunity of a lifetime with the Diver's Dream Package, allowing SCUBA diving during a live performance of Le Rêve. The Diver's Dream Package offers a weekend of excitement, including a two-night stay in a Resort Room at Wynn or Encore, VIP Indulgence tickets to Le Rêve, a private backstage tour, SDI Certified SCUBA training session with the Le Rêve diving team and the unparalleled opportunity to dive during the live show. Le Rêve is the only staged production in Las Vegas to offer this exclusive access to guests. For more information, please contact Lauren Bower, Wynn Las Vegas, lauren.bower@wynnlasvegas.com.

MGM Resorts International Offers New LGBT Event
Hosted by MGM Resorts properties' ARIA, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor and Excalibur, "Fabulous Las Vegas" is a four-day celebration Aug. 12-15 catering to the LGBT community. Guests can choose from four hotel packages offering varying levels of VIP access to private parties and preferred entry into LGBT events. Select packages also include tickets to the sold-out Lady Gaga concert, tickets to Zumanity and private parties at ROK Vegas and Studio 54. The weekend will feature drink specials, meet-and-greets, pool parties, blackjack and slot tournaments, fashion events, docent tours and much more. For more information, please contact David Gonzalez, MGM Resorts International, dgonzalez@mgmresorts.com.

Rock & Rita's to Host Nations International Flair Bartending Challenge
Rock & Rita's, the "Great American Party" restaurant and bar at Circus Circus, will host NATIONS, the international flair bartending competition, August 16-17. Selected for its specially designed flair bars, which were created to meet flair bartending competition requirements, Rock & Rita's will welcome more than 50 internationally ranked flair bartenders from nine countries across the globe as they compete for $25,000 in cash and prizes. Competitors will flip, fling, pour and roll crazy cocktail concoctions for the chance to win the first place title, $10,000 cash and the NIFC Grand Champion Trophy. For more information, please contact Leslie Thuet, Wicked Creative, leslie.thuet@wickedcreative.com.

Las Vegas to Host 2010 Miss Universe Pageant
NBC, Donald J. Trump and Paula M. Shugart, President of the Miss Universe Organization, have announced the 2010 Miss Universe® Pageant will air live on NBC and Telemundo, Monday, August 23 (9 p.m. EST) from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Miss Universe 2009, Stefania Fernandez, will crown her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour telecast. Each contestant, representing over 80 countries around the world, will compete in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Worldwide distribution of the competition has topped over 190 countries in past years. For more information about the pageant, please contact Lark-Marie Anton, Miss Universe Organization, lanton@missuniverse.com.

Las Vegas Restaurant Week Returns
Lauded as one of the best culinary cities in America, fine dining perennially tempts travelers to the "Entertainment Capital of the World." On August 30, gourmands will have yet another reason to visit when the 4th Annual Las Vegas Restaurant Week begins. More than 80 participating restaurants will offer sensationally priced seasonal menus. Portions of the proceeds will benefit local food bank, Three Square. For more information, please contact Emily Wofford, R&R Partners, Emily.Wofford@rrpartners.com.

The Forum Shops at Caesars and FunJet Vacations Partner for 10/10/10
On Oct. 10, 2010 at 10:10 a.m, 10 couples will meet in front of the Trevi Fountain in front of The Forum Shops at Caesars and propose simultaneously to their significant others. It's all part of a contest created by FunJet Vacations and The Forum Shops at Caesars in celebration of the auspicious date. Ten couples were selected through an essay and photo/video contest at www.101010at1010am.com. The couples will receive an all-expense paid trip to Las Vegas provided by FunJet Vacations, a two-night stay at Caesars Palace and much more. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Wagner Junker Agency, marina@wjagency.com.

ALEX Receives 2010 Grand Award from Wine Spectator Magazine
ALEX, the namesake restaurant of Chef Alessandro Stratta at Wynn Las Vegas, has received the coveted 2010 Grand Award from Wine Spectator magazine. ALEX joins an elite group of 75 dining establishments around the world to receive the Grand Award, the magazine's highest honor. Wine Spectator magazine began its recognition of the world's best wine programs 30 years ago, and will continue the tradition of profiling the year's victors in the August 31 issue of the magazine. Restaurants are selected based on their superior wine lists in addition to outstanding food, service and ambience. For more information, please contact Casey Leblang, Becca PR, casey@beccapr.com.

LVCVA and R&R Partners Receive Global Advertising Honors
The American Advertising Federation honored the LVCVA and R&R Partners with two Gold ADDY Awards and two Silver ADDY Awards for the popular "What Happens Here, Stays Here" campaign as well as the "What's Your Excuse?" campaign. These awards represent the best work in the domestic advertising industry. The 57th Annual Cannes Lion International Advertising Festival, the world's largest, most prestigious celebration of creativity in communications, awarded the LVCVA and R&R Partners with a Bronze Cannes Lion for the "What's Your Excuse?" campaign featuring the "ChinChilli Day" spot. Las Vegas was the only destination in this year's event to win a Cannes Lion trophy. For more information, please contact Betsy Ward, R&R Partners, betsy.ward@rrpartners.com.

Vegas Weekend Update

2010-03-06T11:44:00.000-08:00

SPRING ARRIVES AT BELLAGIO’S CONSERVATORY & BOTANICAL GARDENS

Bright Blooms and Fantastical Oversized Ants Celebrate Beauty and Whimsy of

Mother Nature’s Busiest Season

LAS VEGAS – In celebration of spring, Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens will feature a spectacular floral exhibition filled with vivid blooms and a magnificent one-of-a-kind series of large-scale bronze sculptural ants. Inspired by the social nature of these industrious creatures, American artist Susan P. Cochran created a seven-member colony that represents the ideals of cooperation and teamwork.

Four enchanting gardens, created by Bellagio’s talented horticulture staff, will provide a lush landscape for these intricately detailed creatures. Resting below two towering yellow jonquils, a queen ant will allow guests to climb onto her back for a unique photo opportunity. The stunning 8,500-pound queen will provide an ideal vantage point for viewing an exhibit of botanical snails and bumblebees as well as brightly colored tulips, poppies, daisies, mums and daffodils.

Steps away, three 10-foot-long ants will be found attentively preparing for the warm months ahead at the mouth of a 15-foot-tall flower pot, overflowing with rainbow-hued blooms. A beautiful spring butterfly will rest atop the oversized pot while a towering 28-foot spade will stand nearby. Overhead, bumble bees made of preserved sunflowers pause mid-flight in their tireless search for nectar.

Close-by another first for Bellagio’s Conservatory, five giant mushrooms – ranging in size from 5 to 15 feet tall – will provide a natural canopy for the pair of 6-feet-tall ants found communicating below.

A jardin à la française, or French garden, will complete this fantasy botanical wonderland. Within its fragrant symmetrical borders, a large anthill will be flanked by two water spheres. A 3-foot-long ant will be seen crawling into the golden sunlight from its earthen tunnel as its industrious counterpart works nearby.

Throughout this mesmerizing exhibit, botany fans will delight to find a rare exhibition of 10 potted olive trees, each more than 100 years old. Over the years, these ancient trees have been carefully sculptured into oversized bonsai presentations.

Access to the spring exhibit within Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is complimentary to the public and will be on display March 14 through May 9.

# # #

Spring Exhibit Facts

Display dates: March 14 – May 9

Ant Artist: Susan P. Cochran

Ant Total: 7 ants will be on display

Ant Dimensions:

Weight 800 to 8,500 pounds

Length 5 to 24 feet (queen ant)

Height 3 to 6 feet

Width 6 to 19 feet

Olive trees: 100+ years old

Flower pot: 15 feet tall

Spade: 28 feet tall

Mushrooms: 5 to 15 feet tall

Media Contact:

Shant Apelian

MGM MIRAGE Public Relations

(702) 650-7562

sapelian01@mgmmirage.com

What happens in Vegas

2009-06-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

NHL to Host its Annual Awards in Las Vegas

For the first time ever, the National Hockey League will host its 2009 Awards in Las Vegas at The Pearl at Palms. The NHL is bringing its annual awards celebration to Las Vegas as part of a three-year agreement with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. The 2009 NHL Awards celebration will feature the League naming its top players for the regular season in a host of categories including, most valuable player, outstanding goaltender, outstanding defenseman and outstanding rookie. Tickets are on sale now for the June 18th event and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

CineVegas to Host 11th Annual Film Festival

The 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival will kick off with the world premiere of Hue Rhodes’ Saint John of Las Vegas, along with eight other films. The 2009 Festival will be held June 10-15 at the Palms Casino Resort and Brenden Theatres. The Festival will also offer a selection of world and U.S. premieres of documentaries, advance screenings of high-profile films, the best new independent films, and a program of shorts and features from Nevada filmmakers. For more information, please contact Kelly Frey, CineVegas, kelly.frey@cinevegas.com.

Fremont Street Experience Presents the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust”

Fremont Street Experience takes Las Vegas back 40 years this summer with the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” festival and concert series beginning Memorial Day weekend. The celebration offers tourists and residents a summer full of free concerts by iconic bands from 1969, including The Guess Who, Blood Sweat & Tears, Rare Earth, Janis Joplin’s Original Band Big Brother & The Holding Company, The Grass Roots, Jefferson Starship, The 5th Dimension, Canned Heat and Three Dog Night. All summer long, themed nightly entertainment will also include cover bands and tribute artists, theatrical performances with costumed entertainers, new Viva Vision shows paying tribute to the year 1969, and special guest appearances. All concerts and entertainment are free to the public. For more information, please contact Stephanie Capellas, Preferred Public Relations, Stephanie@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Don Bull Productions Brings Bullfighting to Las Vegas

Don Bull Productions will bring six days of bloodless bullfighting to Las Vegas for the first time ever this September. In conjunction with Mexican Independence Day festivities, the South Point Arena, located inside the South Point Hotel & Casino will welcome some of the best bullfighters in the world. Using specially designed adhesive Velcro pads instead of traditional banderillas, rejones and steel harpoons, competitors are able to preserve the existence of the toros while keeping the excitement and skill of traditional bullfighting alive. Events will take place Sept. 14 & 15 and Sept. 27-30 and will feature world-famous bullfighters Eulalio Lopex “El Zotoluco” (Mexico), Federico Pizzaro (Mexico), Antonio Barrera (Spain), Jorge Hernandez Garate (Mexico) and many more. For more information, please contact Craig Nyman, Kirvin Doak Communications, cnyman@kirvindoak.com.

CityCenter Nears Completion as it Tops Out Veer Towers

CityCenter is celebrating a milestone with the recent “topping out” of its dramatically inclining high-rise condominiums, Veer Towers. It is the final residential component to be topped out in preparation of the urban resort destination’s opening later this year. Designed by Helmut Jahn, Veer Towers features two glass towers that rise 37 stories and incline at five-degree angles. At peak, approximately 700 construction workers will work on Veer Towers. For more information, please contact Natalie Mounier, Kirvin Doak Communications, nmounier@kirvindoak.com.

El Cortez Opens New Boutique Hotel in Fremont East District

The El Cortez Hotel & Casino has opened its new Cabana Suites, providing a new form of luxury to downtown Las Vegas with plush rooms and high-tech amenities. With 64 rooms, the Cabana Suites will bring an artistic, boutique style with its sleek design and vintage Miami feel. Amenities include HDTVs, iPod speaker docks and WiFi. The property also has a state-of-the-art fitness center, business center and is conveniently located next to some of the Fremont East District’s trendiest bars. For more information, please contact Matt Guidish, Kirvin Doak Communications, mguidish@kirvindoak.com.

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts Celebrates its Groundbreaking

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts celebrated its groundbreaking on May 26 with a ceremonial carillon bell casting and ringing. A 4.75-acre complex housing the Nevada Ballet Theatre and the Las Vegas Philharmonic, The Smith Center will become the cultural hub of Las Vegas when it opens in the Union Park 61-acre development in downtown Las Vegas in early 2012. Designed to address the needs of community residents, The Smith Center will offer a blend of performances by local arts groups as well as first-run touring attractions. It will feature music, theater, and dance companies who celebrate cultures from all over the world. For more information, please contact Morgan Kise, Kirvin Doak Communications, mkise@kirvindoak.com.

Pool Season in Full Swing at Flamingo Las Vegas

Set in a sprawling 15-acre tropical retreat, the pool at Flamingo Las Vegas has opened for the summer season. The pool complex includes the Flamingo’s adults-only GO Pool offering European-style sunbathing in a secluded area, as well as tan ambassadors, drink specials, luxury cabanas and water activities such as floating beer pong and water volleyball. Guests looking to stay at the Flamingo this summer can book the “Go Get Wet” hotel package. Starting at just $69 a night, guests stay in a Flamingo GO Room and receive two complimentary cocktails. For more information, please contact Jamie Nielsen, Harrah’s Entertainment, jnielsen@harrahs.com.

Friday Night Equals Endless Seafood and Beer at Seasons

Seafood and beer is what guests can expect Friday nights at Seasons Buffet inside Silverton Casino Lodge. Seasons recently launched its new Seafood Buffet, which features delectable seafood dishes from American, Asian and Mediterranean cultures, as well as an endless supply of domestic beer. The buffet includes a soup and salad station, hot and chilled seafood selections, Asian and Italian seafood stations and a dessert bar. For more information, please contact Spence Johnson, BRAINtrust Marketing + Communications, spence@braintrustlv.com.

Select MGM MIRAGE Resorts Offer “Buffet All Day” Bargains

MGM Grand Buffet invites guests to take advantage of a $29.99 “All-Day Meal Pass.” Available Monday through Thursday, each pass allows for one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner – a savings of almost 50 percent. At Excalibur’s Roundtable Buffet, patrons can “Buffet All Day” for $25 per guest. Offering a savings of more than $20 off regular pricing, the value package includes VIP buffet line passes and unlimited reentry privileges. At Cravings Buffet at The Mirage, dinner guests can enjoy an “Early Bird Special” of $19.95 when they dine between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, please contact Jessica Gildar, MGM MIRAGE, jgildar@mgmmirage.com.

Imperial Palace Welcomes “Imperial Hawaiian Luau” Season

Now in its 18th year, the Imperial Palace has brought back its poolside “Imperial Hawaiian Luau.” The open-air dinner show features an all-you-can-eat buffet, all-you-can-drink adult beverages and a souvenir Pagoda cup. From the sights of the ten beautiful Pacific-Island dancers, to the sounds of the drums and conch shell, to the taste of the finest Pacific-Island Cuisine, the luau is a journey for the senses. The 90-minute dinner show features live music and traditional dances and costuming from several of the Pacific Islands including Hawaii, Tonga, Fiji and Samoa. The island-themed cuisine is a plentiful offering of roasted pig, seafood, an extensive dessert bar and many other island favorites. The Luau is offered every Tuesday and Saturday through Sept. 29. For more information, please contact Michelle Mosbacher, Harrah’s Entertainment, mmosbacher@harrahs.com.

Chef Paul Bartolotta Wins the James Beard Foundation Award

Paul Bartolotta, chef of Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare at Wynn Las Vegas, received the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef Southwest on May 4. Bartolotta previously won the 1994 Best Chef, Midwest James Beard Award when he helmed the kitchen of Chicago's Spiaggia, which received four-star ratings from both the Chicago Tribune and Chicago magazine. Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, which received a 2006 James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant, offers a simple, yet refined Italian menu that redefines traditional American notions of Italian dining. For more information, please contact Amy Rossetti, Wynn Las Vegas, amy.rossetti@wynnlasvegas.com.

MGM

2009-05-23T08:17:00.001-07:00

MGM MIRAGE Hospitality and Pearl Dubai to Develop

Bellagio, MGM Grand, and Skylofts Brands at Dubai Pearl

LAS VEGAS – MGM MIRAGE (NYSE:MGM) and Pearl Dubai FZ LLC today announced plans to develop Bellagio, MGM Grand, and Skylofts hotels, as well as branded residences at Dubai Pearl, the USD4 billion (AED15 billion) world-class, fully integrated luxury development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The hotels are expected to be operational in 2013.

Pearl Dubai FZ LLC will own and finance the 250-room Bellagio hotel, 350-room MGM Grand hotel, and 30-suite Skylofts hotel, while MGM MIRAGE Hospitality will manage and provide technical services for the three new ventures.

The agreement includes the development of Bellagio branded luxury residences, in addition to featuring world-renowned dining, entertainment, spa and convention that complement the luxury offering of the hotels.

Gamal Aziz, President and Chief Executive Officer of MGM MIRAGE Hospitality, said: “We are honored to be part of a significant development located in the heart of new Dubai. Dubai Pearl is a product born out of enhanced creativity and imagination, and our properties will inspire travelers and residents with a sense of livable luxury that infuses energy and excitement with sophisticated service.”

MGM MIRAGE is one of the world's leading and most respected development companies with significant holdings in hospitality and entertainment.

The partnership between the two companies will see the Dubai Pearl project getting Dubai’s first hotel and residences brands under the MGM MIRAGE portfolio.

Abdul Majeed Ismail Al Fahim, Chairman of Pearl Dubai FZ LLC, said: “Our alliance with MGM MIRAGE reflects our commitment to forging world-class partnerships with premium brands that are renowned for their operational excellence.

“The project’s entertainment elements will help complete the vision of making the Dubai Pearl a true landmark that will deliver an unforgettable experience through its diverse components and unmatched services.”

Located opposite the Palm Jumeirah Island in the heart of the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, Dubai Pearl is a landmark destination designed to offer spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. Through integrating first-class facilities, it will shape a pedestrian friendly, 24-hour living city that with a spectrum of commercial, retail, residential, hospitality and leisure components. Dubai Pearl will also boast a 2000 seat performing arts theatre aimed at meeting the needs of Dubai’s growing cultural calendar and complementing the project’s entertainment offering.

Featuring an active business district with a quality urban lifestyle, the development will be host to the world’s top brands and include sky palaces with private pools and landscaped gardens, luxury branded apartments and condominiums.

May in Vegas

2009-05-05T13:47:00.001-07:00

Las Vegas Celebrates Third Annual Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appetit

Las Vegas will celebrate the 3rd Annual Vegas Uncork’d presented by Bon Appétit May 7 – 10. Highlights include a pool-side Grand Tasting with 75 celebrated chefs and vintners; a high-stakes culinary competition; after-hours blackjack; tour-de-force Masters Series dinners with internationally acclaimed chefs such as Bobby Flay; an exclusive culinary experience featuring Chef Joël Robuchon fused with performances by the cast of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil; an all-star interactive luncheon with first-hand instruction from star chefs like Paul Bartolotta; wine immersion seminars; and a gala evening celebration featuring chefs such as Michael Mina. Vegas Uncork’d presented by Bon Appétit features a roster of Las Vegas’ top culinary talent and is made possible by the LVCVA, and anchored by Bellagio, Caesars Palace, MGM Grand and Wynn/Encore Las Vegas. Co-sponsored by Travelocity and Southern Wine & Spirits, Vegas Uncork’d presented by Bon Appétit is known for creating an extraordinary culinary experience for visitors and showcases a selection of star-studded events across the city. For more information, please visit www.VegasUncorked.com.

Fremont Street Experience Presents the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust”

Fremont Street Experience takes Las Vegas back 40 years this summer with the “Summer of ’69: Vegas or Bust” festival and concert series beginning Memorial Day weekend. The celebration offers tourists and residents a summer full of free concerts by iconic bands from 1969, including The Guess Who, Blood Sweat & Tears, Rare Earth, Janis Joplin’s Original Band Big Brother & The Holding Company, The Grass Roots, Jefferson Starship, The 5th Dimension, Canned Heat and Three Dog Night. All summer long, themed nightly entertainment will also include cover bands and tribute artists, theatrical performances with costumed entertainers, new Viva Vision shows paying tribute to the year 1969, and special guest appearances. All concerts and entertainment are free to the public. For more information, please contact Stephanie Capellas, Preferred Public Relations, Stephanie@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Unveils The New Joint and New Resident Headliner

Hard Rock Hotel has opened an all-new premiere concert venue. The Joint features a cutting-edge sound and lighting system and offers seven luxury suites. Inheriting its name from the legendary original Hard Rock venue, the new Joint carries on the up-close and personal feel with the furthest seat in the house only 155 feet from the stage. In addition, the venue contains four dressing rooms; a top-notch green room and meet-and-greet room; WiFi access with full blogging station for press covering events; ability to transform for boxing, wrestling, mixed martial arts events, corporate functions and trade shows; as well as red carpet movie premieres and advanced screenings. Signing on as the first rock and roll resident artist in Las Vegas, legendary guitarist Carlos Santana brings his talent to The Joint through a multi-year deal with AEG. Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits debuts May 27. For more information, please contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak Communications, bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

Disney’s The Lion King Opens at Mandalay Bay

Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay have announced the award-winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING coming to the Mandalay Bay Theatre May 15, 2009, with preview performances beginning May 5, 2009. This production will join the six other highly successful companies of THE LION KING around the world in New York, London, Hamburg, Paris, Tokyo and Fukuoka. Mandalay Bay’s production of THE LION KING will be virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon. For more information, please contact Erin Randell, MGM MIRAGE, erandell@mgmmirage.com.

Cadillac Ranch Rolls into Town Square

Cadillac Ranch, the 12,000-square-foot all-American bar and grill, has opened at Town Square. The rock ‘n’ roll-inspired eatery is open for lunch, dinner, happy hour and late night fun and features a mechanical bull. The space includes an outdoor patio, multiple big screen televisions for sporting events, a menu featuring American favorites with a Southwestern flair, and themed specials each night. For more information, please contact Stacy Gold, Town Square, sgold@turnberry.com.

Serendipity 3 Opens at Caesars Palace

Serendipity 3, one of New York City’s most beloved eateries with more than 50 years of history, has opened at Caesars Palace near Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Road. Defined as “…the art of making happy discoveries, or finding the unexpectedly pleasant by chance or sagacity,” the new Caesars Palace location offers guests a whimsical café with many similarities to its New York location. The over-the-top desserts and sweets are perfect for the ultimate indulgence, and the variety of savory creations makes for a haven of comfort food. In addition to popular favorites like the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, the restaurant also serves Strip Steak sandwiches and Cotton Candy Cocktails. For more information, please contact Celena Haas, Caesars Palace, chaas@caesarspalace.com.

REHAB Reopens at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

The 2009 season of REHAB, the renowned Sunday pool party, has opened and features a number of new amenities including an expansion to the pool that was previously named one of the Top 10 pools in the world by the Travel Channel, as well as renovations to 50 of the signature thatch-roof cabanas including 42-inch plasma flat screen HD televisions and poolside spa service options. The Hard Rock has also added brand new sundecks with daybeds, as well as a new, state-of-the-art sound system. Guests can still expect some of their favorite amenities at REHAB including 4.7 acres of tropical paradise with real sand beaches, top-notch food and beverage service from the Hard Rock Beach Club, and the popular swim-up Blackjack tables. For more information, please contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak Communications, bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

Venus Pool Club Opens at Caesars Palace

With the 2009 pool season upon Las Vegas, Venus Pool Club at Caesars Palace has opened for sunbathers ages 18 and up. Surrounded by lush greenery and the Romanesque elegance of Caesars Palace, Venus Pool Club features posh cabanas, oversized chaise lounges, and an air-conditioned bar with flat screen TVs. DJs spin beats as staff provides guests with such amenities as frozen towels, cooling Evian face spritzers and poolside body massages. Venus Pool Club is open Wednesday - Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can be rented out for corporate events and private parties. For more information, please contact Craig Nyman, Kirvin Doak Communications, cnyman@kirvindoak.com.

Papillon Airways Unveils Multi-Million Dollar Aerocenter in Boulder City

Papillon Helicopters and Grand Canyon Airlines/Scenic Airlines, the largest premiere “flightseeing” companies in the world, have unveiled their $9 million dollar Boulder City Aerocenter. The new 30,000 square foot terminal enables guests to seamlessly check in for all flights and tours offered by Papillon and Grand Canyon Airlines/Scenic Airlines. The terminal features 26-foot high ceilings and modern décor, with the center rotunda adorned by an enormous, avant-garde propeller with 24-foot long blades. Outside on the ramp, there lies space for Papillon’s local fleet of 15 helicopters and Grand Canyon Airlines/Scenic Airline’s 16 airplane fleet. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Wagner Junker Agency, marina@wjagency.com.

Pink Jeep Tours Launches Grand Canyon Classic Deluxe Tour

Pink Jeep Tours has announced a new Grand Canyon Classic Deluxe Tour featuring exclusive access to Quartermaster Point, one of the most remote areas at Grand Canyon West. The tour includes brief stops and photo opportunities at the historic Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the desert community of Dolan Springs and the rugged Joshua Tree forest, then continues to the Grand Canyon's West Rim, home of the Hualapai nation with views of the Skywalk attraction. Once at the West Rim, guests travel to Quartermaster Point. The absence of handrails, fences or crowds makes Quartermaster Point a remote and panoramic viewpoint overlooking the magnificent Colorado River. The tour lasts approximately 9-10 hours. For more information, please contact Marina Nicola, Wagner Junker Agency, marina@wjagency.com.

“Daycation Package” Now Available at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

This summer, escape to Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas for a day of relaxation and pampering. Offered Sunday through Thursday, the new Daycation Package combines a sampling of the hotel’s most exclusive offerings with its signature service and residential-style tranquility. Priced at $140 per person, the Daycation Package includes a 50-minute spa treatment, 20% off spa products, $50 off an Ajne custom perfume blend, use of the health club and a day pass to the hotel’s private pool. For more information, please contact Erica Johnson-McElroy, Four Seasons, erica.johnson-mcelroy@fourseasons.com.

Aquae Sulis Spa at JW Marriott Introduces “Ahhhpricot Summer Treatments”

Aquae Sulis Spa at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa introduces “Ahhhpricot Summer Treatments” using all-natural ingredients from The Eminence Organics line. Starting June 2 and offered through Sept. 1, 2009, the spa will offer body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures, vichy treatments and body scrubs using the kernel, oil and flower of apricots. For more information, please contact Lisa Roughley, Roughley Speaking Public Relations, lisa@roughleyspeakingpr.com.

Loews Lake Las Vegas to Launch SummerFest

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Loews Lake Las Vegas will offer SummerFest featuring recreational events for both children and adults. The program offers summer specials such as stay two nights and get the third night free; Date Night featuring classic romance films and cocktails for couples; Sushi and Sake School; Dive-in Movies; daily pool activities; a Kids Club; Spa happy hours and much more. For more information, please contact Raquel Sanchez, Loews Lake Las Vegas, rsanchez@loewshotels.com.

Monte Carlo and New York-New York Offer Vegas Summer Escape Package

From pool parties to dining offers, Monte Carlo and New York-New York are partnering to host the ultimate summer escape with incomparable deals beginning May 6 through Sept. 13. Daily activities will provide a thrilling escape without breaking the bank. With rates starting from only $55, book a room and enjoy these special inclusions: 2-for-1 buffet at Monte Carlo, 2-for-1 tickets to Lance Burton at Monte Carlo; 2-for-1 roller coaster ride at New York-New York, 35% off Zumanity tickets at New York-New York and much more. For more information, please contact Behnaz Salimian, MGM MIRAGE, bsalimian@mgmmirage.com.

Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Announce Indulgent Getaways

Wynn Las Vegas and Encore now offer luxurious room packages that include the ultimate in fine dining, spa, entertainment and leisure offerings. With standard room reservations available from $169 a night, there are also five packages available that offer everything from a romantic retreat for two to a leisurely golf game on the Las Vegas Strip's only golf course. Now through September, packages include “The Suite Life” featuring private car service to and from the airport and two daily spa passes; “The Bed and Breakfast Getaway” including a two-night stay and a gourmet breakfast; “Romantic Retreat” with a prix-fixe dinner for two at Stratta and two tickets to Le Reve; “Golf Getaway” featuring one round of golf for two and a prix-fixe lunch for two; and “Distinctive Guest Experience” offering a $75 resort credit with a pre-paid room booking. For more information, please visit www.wynnlasvegas.com or www.encorelasvegas.com.

Las Vegas Happenings

2009-04-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

DATELINE LAS VEGAS

APRIL 2009

Las Vegas Convention Center Celebrates 50th Anniversary

On April 12, 1959, community leaders realized their vision of Las Vegas becoming a leading convention destination when the Las Vegas Convention Center opened and hosted the World Congress of Flight. Since then, Las Vegas has become the premier convention destination and the convention center has grown to more than 3 million square feet. The Las Vegas Convention Center regularly hosts more than 1.5 million delegates per year resulting in approximately $2.5 billion in non-gaming economic impact. This month, the Convention Center celebrates its 50th anniversary. For more information, please contact Jeremy Handel, LVCVA, jhandel@lvcva.com.

New York-New York Introduces the Value Passport

New York-New York offers a variety of exhilarating nightlife – all under one roof, for one low price. With the purchase of the new $25 Value Passport, guests can party all night at a variety of venues, without breaking the bank. Deals offered with the Passport include one premium specialty cocktail at Center Bar; a pint of beer at Pour 24; a ride on The Roller Coaster at New York-New York; a pint or cocktail at Nine Fine Irishmen; admission and a brew at The Bar at Times Square; and VIP line pass admission into ROK Vegas. The Value Passport is available at the New York-New York Box Office. For more information, please contact Christi Braginton, MGM MIRAGE, cbraginton@mgmmirage.com.

Imperial Palace Las Vegas Introduces “All In” Vacation Packages

Imperial Palace announces its “All In” travel packages that offer guests the convenience of rooms plus unlimited food and beverage at a variety of locations throughout the property, a concept new to Las Vegas. The Imperial Palace’s “All In” packages start at just $95 per night. The convenient way of travel includes accommodations, unlimited trips to Emperor’s Buffet, meals at Teahouse (café open for breakfast, lunch and dinner), and all-you-can-drink alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at casino and pool bars. For more information, please contact Jamie Nielsen-Langdon, Harrah’s Entertainment, jnielsen@harrahs.com.

The Palazzo and The Venetian Restaurants Create “Date Nite”

The Palazzo and The Venetian have created a restaurant stimulus package that will satisfy your appetite without breaking the bank. Now through April 24, “Date Nite” will feature pre-fixe menus at a cost of only $40 per person. At The Palazzo, enjoy Charlie Trotter’s Bar Charlie, Mario Batali’s Carnevino, Dos Caminos, Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro, and SUSHISAMBA. At The Venetian, the selection of restaurants includes Mario Batali’s Enoteca San Marco and Wolfgang Puck’s Postrio. Additionally, Double Helix* Wine Bar at The Shoppes at The Palazzo will be offering a specially priced glass of wine during Date Nite. For more information, please contact Amy Carlson, Venetian/Palazzo, amy.carlson@venetian.com.

Miracle Mile Shops Opens New Stores Including Three Las Vegas Firsts

Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino welcomes Las Vegas’ only Club Tattoo, founded by Linkin Park front man Chester Bennington and long time friend Sean Dowdell. The venue features talented tattoo artists, body piercers and a full line of brand apparel. Rock & Roll Religion is the Los Angeles-based company’s only Las Vegas outpost featuring brands such as English Laundry, Fender: The Clothing Collection; Jimi Hendrix: The Experience, and Da Vinci. DC Shoes, the California-based retailer, features men’s, women’s and children’s footwear inspired by an extreme sports lifestyle. American Apparel showcases a wide range of clothing items for men and women. For more information, please contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak, bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

Bare Pool Lounge Opens at The Mirage

Bare pool lounge at The Mirage, The Light Group’s exclusive adult alternative to the typical Las Vegas pool experience, has opened. In its third season, Bare pool lounge has quickly become the summertime sanctuary for Hollywood’s A-list. Last summer Bare pool hosted celebrity birthday parties and live evening concerts. The ultimate in poolside pampering, Bare is defined by its two saltwater luxury dipping pools, distinctive contemporary ambiance and ultra VIP service for which The Light Group is renowned. The DJ-spun music mix sets the party mood as guests enjoy European-style sun bathing secluded by towering palms. Bare will be open Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Beginning May 1, Bare will be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, please contact Alex Acuna, Light Group, aacuna@lightlv.com.

Dixie’s Dam Bar at Hooters Goes Rock ‘n’ Roll

Hooters Casino Hotel recently opened Dixie’s Dam Bar, a 3,000-square-foot, laid back rock ‘n’ roll bar. Originally called Dixie’s Dam Country Bar, where country music and live bands were the norm in the venue, Hooters recently decided to change the theme of the bar to have an edgier feel. The country look has been changed to rustic decor with a touch of rock ‘n’ roll. All tunes come from a digital jukebox playing all rock hits. Dixie’s Dam Bar is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 p.m. until the party stops. For more information, please contact Michelle Tsang, Preferred Public Relations, mtsang@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Sin City Brewing Co. Now Open Inside Flamingo Las Vegas

Sin City Brewing Co.’s second Las Vegas location is now open daily, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m., inside the Flamingo Las Vegas. The Las Vegas-based microbrewery’s newly opened outpost, located near the hotel’s guest entrance and valet, offers a full-bar experience featuring all four of Sin City’s custom brews on tap. Sin City Amber, Sin City Light, Sin City Stout and Sin City Weisse, are produced in small batches using traditional methods and premium raw materials. For more information, please contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak, bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

“Sin City Bad Girls” to Open at Las Vegas Hilton

Platinum Productions will debut its super sexy, rockin’ topless revue, “Sin City Bad Girls,” on Friday, April 24, at 9 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton’s 340-seat Shimmer Showroom. “Sin City Bad Girls,” created and produced by entertainment executive Glenn Medas and Emmy Award-winning choreographer and director Michael Chambers, will feature a cast of eight gorgeous dancers, lead by songstress Lorena Peril backed by an electrifying live band. The only show of its kind with a live band will showcase the sounds of pulsing rock, pop, country and blues. Show time is nightly at 9 p.m., dark Sunday. For more information, please contact Shelley Mansholt, Mansholt PR, shelley@mansholtpr.com.

New Owners for The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas

Village Hospitality, L.L.C. has purchased The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas, the award-winning 349-room resort and spa located 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. The transaction closed in late February 2009. The prior owner of the resort sought reorganization in April 2008, and the acquisition by Village Hospitality concludes a 10-month bankruptcy period. For more information, please contact Bonnie Crail, Crail Communications, bcrail@crailcommunications.com.

Las Vegas to Host 2009 NHL Awards

The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced the 2009 NHL Awards will take place for the first time ever in Las Vegas on June 18, 2009. The NHL is bringing its annual awards celebration to Las Vegas as part of a three-year agreement with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). The 2009 NHL Awards celebration will feature the League naming its top players for the regular season in a host of categories including, most valuable player (Hart Trophy), outstanding goaltender (Vezina Trophy), outstanding defenseman (Norris Trophy) and outstanding rookie (Calder Trophy). More details regarding the 2009 NHL Awards festivities including tickets on sale, entertainment, ancillary events, broadcast details and media information will be announced at a later date. For more information, please contact Kerry McGovern, NHL, kmcgovern@nhl.com.

17th Annual Las Vegas City of Lights Jazz Festival Returns

Michael Schivo Presents has teamed up with Las Vegas Events (LVE), the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), 105.7 Smooth Jazz, KJLH Radio Free and KTWV radio - The Wave in Los Angeles -- to co-sponsor the 17th Annual Las Vegas City of Lights Jazz Festival on Saturday, April 25, 2009. By popular demand, the festival now has a new location at Government Amphitheater. The festival starts at 1 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m. The lineup includes handpicked musicians to entertain throughout the day and night including Boney James, Wayman Tisdale, Incognito lead singer Maysa, Marion Meadows and Jessy J. For more information, please visit www.yourjazz.com.

Las Vegas Happenings

2009-03-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

DATELINE LAS VEGAS

MARCH 2009

M Resort, Spa and Casino Opens

On March 1, M Resort, Spa and Casino opened its doors for business. M Resort, Spa and Casino is located on over 90 acres at the southeast corner of St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard. Situated higher in elevation than other resort-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort provides optimal views of the world-famous Las Vegas skyline from its guest rooms, suites, conference center and restaurants. The resort features 390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 square feet of gaming, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, and a variety of luxury amenities including a partnership with Taubman Centers, Inc. to bring in up to one million square feet of retail. The resort also features a 14-screen digital movie entertainment complex, nine restaurants and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center. For more information, visit www.theMresort.com or contact Rina Foster, Preferred Public Relations, rina@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Vdara Now Accepting Reservations

This October, MGM MIRAGE will introduce its newest luxury boutique hotel on the world-famous Strip, Vdara at CityCenter. Vdara is now accepting reservations for Oct. 1, 2009 and beyond. Soaring 57 stories, Vdara will offer 1,495 suites including 250 corner-view units, ranging from approximately 500 to 1,650 square feet. Amenities will include a two-level spa, salon and fitness facility; Silk Road, a modern trans-ethnic restaurant; Bar Vdara, an eclectic lobby lounge; The Sky Pool & Lounge with spa cabanas and semi-secluded plunge pools; The Gourmet Grocer offering a variety of produce and gourmet foods; 24-hour in-suite dining; housekeeping; valet parking and much more. Vdara’s opening will deliver the first glimpse into this urban metropolis. Nightly rates will range from $159 to $2,000. For more information, please contact Jennifer Hanson, Kirvin Doak Communications, jhanson@kirvindoak.com.

Zowie Bowie to Open at The Palms

Las Vegas sensation Zowie Bowie, one of the most popular nightclub acts in the country, will begin performing at The Palms Casino Resort every Friday and Saturday night at 10:00 p.m. and midnight beginning March 6. Zowie Bowie has been bringing a unique blend of today’s hottest dance, hip-hop, Top 40 and classic Las Vegas music to audiences for the past three years as headliners at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa. Zowie Bowie features the musical talent of Chris Phillips, Marley Taylor and a high voltage band that has become a Las Vegas mainstay. The show will be located in “The Lounge” in The Palms, which is being renovated to accommodate the new show. For more information, please contact Larry Fink, The Palms, larry.fink@palms.com.

The Mirage Comes to Life with Terry Fator & His Cast of Thousands

After entertaining millions of fans across the country with his highly successful tour, Terry Fator takes permanent residence at The Mirage with his new show Terry Fator & His Cast of Thousands. Winner of NBC’s 2007 season of “America’s Got Talent,” the celebrity impressionist, singer, comedian and ventriloquist has been perfecting his craft for 32 years, all to achieve his dream of becoming a Las Vegas Strip headliner. On February 14, 2009 Fator began preview performances in the Terry Fator Theatre, with regularly scheduled performances beginning March 17, 2009. Terry Fator will perform Tuesday - Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; dark Sunday and Monday. Guests must be 5 years of age or older to attend. For more information, please contact Adrianne Offermann, Kirvin Doak Communications, aoffermann@kirvindoak.com.

Platinum Masters’ Monster Circus Comes to the Las Vegas Hilton

Monster Circus opens to all rock fans on March 19 inside the Las Vegas Hilton Theater. A truly unique spectacle, Monster Circus combines a high-octane live rock concert with sexy dancers, human circus acts, aerialists and a tour bus full of platinum certified rock stars. An irreverent ringmaster along with Sicko The Clown, Monster Circus’ mascot, lead the audience along the 75-minute journey through the powerhouse rock and metal anthems of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Rock artists include Rudy Sarzo (DIO and formerly of Whitesnake, Quiet Riot and Ozzy Osbourne), John Corabi (formerly of Mötley Crüe and Ratt), Fred Coury (Cinderella), Bruce Kulick (formerly of KISS) and Tony Montana (formerly of Great White). The circus is in town six nights a month on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights with an 11 p.m. show time. For more information, please contact Alissa Kelly, PR Plus, Alissa@prpluslv.com.

Elton John’s “The Red Piano” Final Engagement at Caesars Palace

Acclaimed singer, songwriter and performer, Elton John returns to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for his final engagement of his hit show “The Red Piano.” Final performances will be April 7 -8, April 10-12, April 14-16, April 18-19, and April 21 – 22. “The Red Piano” was originally booked for 75 shows over three years. Responding to overwhelming demand, the resort accelerated the number of shows presented each year, completing the original commitment in only 18 months. During this time, Caesars Palace extended the agreement for an additional 166 shows for a final engagement total of 241. For more information, please contact Celena Haas, Caesars Palace, chaas@caesarspalace.com.

Miracle Mile Shops Announces New Fountain Feature

Located inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, a new multi-million dollar water feature transforms from a tranquil piece of art into an entertainment centerpiece. As the center’s latest free attraction, the fountain entertains and inspires onlookers with lighted water effects and eruptions 50 feet high, color changing fog, bursts of light and dramatic, original soundtracks broadcast via a state-of-the-art surround sound system. For more information, please contact Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak, bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

ElevenSpa Brings Hollywood Glamour to Las Vegas

ElevenSpa, the new luxury spa featuring a salon by world-renowned celebrity hairstylist, Ken Paves, has opened at Town Square. With elements of old Hollywood fused throughout the 20,000 square-foot facility, ElevenSpa Vegas was envisioned by Nicole Oden to look and feel like the Beverly Hills Hotel. With 28 treatment rooms, 6 make-up stations, a manicure bar and pedicure room, a hand ritual fountain and a full-service Ken Paves signature salon featuring 12 styling stations, ElevenSpa Vegas surpasses ordinary. For more information, please contact Leslie Thuet, Preferred Public Relations, leslie@preferredpublicrelations.com.

The Spa at Four Seasons Las Vegas Now Offers Ajne Parfum Demi-Blending

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas has joined forces with leading natural perfumer Ajne to unveil the ultimate in custom pampering - an innovative Demi-Blend experience in which guests create their own signature fragrance. The Demi-Blend experience consists of guests enjoying a one-on-one appointment with The Spa’s mélanger, a trained specialist who will create a customized experience especially for them. Each of the unique fragrances at the Ajne Rare & Precious Blending Bar is based on the ancient Chakra system. For more information, please contact Erica Johnson-McElroy, Four Seasons, Erica.johnson-mcelroy@fourseasons.com.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas Announces New Golf Packages

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas has unveiled two premium golf packages. For aficionados of prestige links and for those who relish variety in their play, the new offering includes a Golfer’s Dream package with access to acclaimed Cascata, and a one-to-four-night Golf-Around providing a choice of award-winning courses for daily play. The Golfer’s Dream package, from $649 per night, includes deluxe, lake-view accommodations, one round of golf at Cascata, cart and forecaddie, and more. The Las Vegas Golf-Around, from $379 per night, includes deluxe lake-view accommodations, one round of golf at Reflection Bay, Rio Secco or Revere at Anthem, cart and much more. For more information, please contact Bonnie Crail, Crail Communications, bcrail@crailcommunications.com.

Five Days of Blarney at J.C. Wooloughan Irish Pub

J.C. Wooloughan Irish Pub in the JW Marriott Las Vegas will host a five-day festival to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day from March 13-17. The festival will include Irish Happy Hours, performances by The Wild Celts, the Martin Percival School of Irish Dance, Thompson/O’Keefe, John Windsor, Playground and Tartanic, a traditional Irish brunch and plenty of Irish food and beverage. For more information, please contact Barb McGettigan, Roughley Speaking PR, barb@roughleyspeakingpr.com.

McFadden’s St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza

McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 with an all-day and night party, concluding with a “Last Man Standing” and Green Bikini contest. McFadden’s will kick-off St. Patrick’s Day with an all-you-can-eat Irish breakfast and all-you-can-drink domestic draft green beer. From there, the restaurant and saloon will offer various all-day drink specials. Irish dancers, leprechauns and bag pipe players will be entertaining at McFadden’s all night long, gearing the crowd up for the biggest St. Patrick’s Day party in Las Vegas. For more information, please contact Jessica Murray, Wicked Creative, Jessica.murray@wickedcreative.com.

Show Your Irish Pride at New York-New York

Celebrate the luck of the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day at New York-New York. The hotel’s annual Celtic Feis (festival) will offer the best in traditional Irish fare and music. A three-day party at Nine Fine Irishmen and outside on New York-New York’s Brooklyn Bridge will kick-off March 14 and continue through the wee hours of St. Paddy’s Day, March 17. Entertainment will be provided by Irish favorites Ri Ra and U2 cover band Rattle and Hum, among others. A $25 three-day pass will be available for March 14-16 and will include three complimentary draft beers. For more information, please contact Sandy Zanella, MGM MIRAGE, zanellas@mgmmirage.com.

NEW MULTI-LANGUAGE WEB SITES SEND WARM LAS VEGAS WELCOME

TO NON-ENGLISH-SPEAKING GUESTS

Resort Web Sites Offer Everything from Information to Booking

LAS VEGAS – While a few resorts offer Spanish versions of their main pages, until now no one on the Las Vegas Strip had taken the next step; allowing guests to book rooms online in their own language with no interpreter needed. Now, Spanish and German-speaking guests can plan and book their vacation directly on some of the most popular Las Vegas-resort Web sites.

The language-option booking engines were launched this February on all Las Vegas MGM MIRAGE property sites including Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage and MGM Grand. With easy access on the home page via drop-down menus, Spanish and German-speaking visitors enjoy language-specific sites as well as the option of booking their stay in their native tongue. French, Italian and Japanese-speaking guests currently benefit from dedicated Web sites, with plans to add the custom booking engines later this year. Plans also call for the addition of other languages.

“Our push to enable visitors to browse and book in their own language confirms our commitment to our guests,” said Lou Ragg, executive director of Internet Operations and Marketing for MGM MIRAGE.

Citywide, roughly 12 percent of visitors are from outside U.S. borders, although some properties average a significantly higher percentage than the city-at-large.

H. Fletch Brunelle, senior vice president of Hotel Sales and Marketing at Bellagio, said, “This past summer, we peaked at more than one third of leisure customers coming from overseas. It’s a growing trend, and we believe that providing our guests with the capability to book online direct in their own language is a big asset.”

The Spanish and German booking engines are already having an impact. The Spanish-language booking engine was used to make room reservations at Bellagio within 24 hours of the site going live. “We know that both domestic and international visitors are taking advantage of our new sites,” Ragg said. “It makes us proud to provide a service that was sorely lacking in the market.”

The Web sites of the Las Vegas MGM MIRAGE resorts can be found at www.bellagio.com, www.mgmgrand.com, www.mandalaybay.com, www.mirage.com, www.treasureisland.com, www.montecarlo.com, www.nynyhotelcasino.com, www.luxor.com, www.excalibur.com and www.circuscircus.com

# # #

Media Contact:

Christi Braginton

MGM MIRAGE Public Relations

(702) 650-7532

cbraginton@mgmmirage.com

Vegas Weekend Update

2009-02-17T11:31:00.001-08:00

It really takes a village to pull off the E BUNNY program each year. The private, charitable outreach group has grown in 19 years, from delivering 25 baskets the first year, to over 1,300 Easter baskets in 2008.

Baskets go to kids who need them most. Beyond the neon glitz of the Las Vegas Strip, thousands of children exist under impoverished circumstances... many homeless... in temporary housing, under the most depressing conditions.

"We get requests from various programs and shelters every year," says coordinator and program founder Barbara Kenig. "Our goal is to find groups and organizations that aren't sponsored by large charities or outreach programs; we look for those who otherwise wouldn't have Easter baskets for the kids. We don't accept monetary contributions," Kenig added. "We just ask for Easter Baskets that can be donated directly to the kids."

Since 1990, E BUNNY has delivered thousands of baskets to homeless and underprivileged children thanks to the generosity of retailers, industry, casinos, manufacturers, individuals, (many anonymous), churches and dedicated volunteers.

Businesses across America — the likes of TY Inc., Costco, Sam's Club,& Walmart — have helped through the years. And Las Vegas companies like Veolia Transportation, Payroll Solutions, Station Casinos Outreach Team, Kohls, Nevada State College School of Nursing and Faith Community Lutheran Church collected hundreds of baskets for kids in need last year.

Organizations that received baskets in 2008 included: Las Vegas City Mission, Las Vegas Housing Authority, Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Clark County Social Services, Safe House, Sunrise Children's Hospital, Nevada Social Services and Straight From the Streets. A complete list of all who donated, and those agencies and organizations who received can be found on the E BUNNY web page at: communitylink.reviewjournal.com/lvrj/ebunny

You can make a difference in a child's life by purchasing an Easter basket and donating it to the E BUNNY "One Special Basket for One Special Child" program; then, inspire others in your life to donate an Easter basket too! The cost of a basket typically ranges in price from $7-15 and they can be purchased at any drugstore, supermarket, or retail store like Walmart, K-Mart, Odd & Big Lots, and Target.

Easter/Spring is the season of hope and renewal. No matter what your religious beliefs are, it's a great time to put a smile on the face of a child who really doesn't have a lot to smile about, and be part of a community effort that cares for kids.

For further information on donating an Easter basket, e-mail Barbara Kenig at barbarakenig@aol.com - call 702.498.9808 - or visit the we page: http://communitylink.reviewjournal.com/lvrj/ebunny

M Resort, Spa and Casino Unveils its Food and Beverage Offerings

M Resort Spa Casino has announced its lineup of nine restaurants. Studio B, the resort’s show kitchen buffet, integrates a state-of-the-art restaurant with a live-action cooking studio. At Marinelli’s, guests can enjoy authentic Italian dishes in the stylish restaurant or overlooking the Villaggio Del Sole. Terzetto will combine great charcoal-grilled steak and seafood with an even better social atmosphere. Gracing the summit of the M Resort, Veloce Cibo will combine an extensive menu of appetizers, entrees and sushi. Red Cup Café, a 1920s art-deco inspired 24-hour gathering spot, will be the place for hand-prepared American classics. The Hostile Grape will be known as the cellar and tasting room with an attitude. Baby Cakes, a European-inspired patisserie will offer an impressive assortment of confections including pastries, cakes, and a variety of coffees. Adjacent to the race and sports book, guests can order by the numbers at Vig Deli with an extensive menu that includes hot dogs, burgers and hand-tossed pizza. A casual outdoor dining experience, Piazza Grille will be a sun-soaked Mediterranean-style experience. For more information, please contact Rina Foster, Preferred Public Relations, rina@preferredpublicrelations.com.

Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at Monte Carlo Re-opens After $2 Million Renovation

Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at Monte Carlo has re-opened with a new look, new offerings and new chef de cuisine Greg Engelhardt. Considered the first Las Vegas celebrity chef, Andre Rochat has enhanced his AAA Four Diamond restaurant by combining its original old-world charm with a modern twist to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The new layout of Andre’s, designed by Urbane Design Associates, is evident upon arrival. Floor-to-ceiling, clear-glass entrance doors allow a glimpse into the visually open and expanded wine bar. Upstairs, guests will discover three private dining rooms as well as the intimate Cigar Lounge. The menu features traditional French cuisine overseen nightly by Chef Rochat, who gives his personal stamp of approval to each plate before it leaves the kitchen. For more information, please contact Andrea Brown, MGM MIRAGE, abrown@mgmmirage.com.

SUSHISAMBA Introduces SUSHI+SAKE101

SUSHISAMBA, located at the Shoppes level of The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino, offers a unique SUSHI+SAKE101 class that teaches sake and the art of sushi making from Las Vegas' only female master sake sommelier and a master sushi chef. SUSHI+SAKE101 introduces guests to the history and traditions of sushi and sake and offers in-depth instruction about these two worldly traditions from resident experts. Class participants learn what it takes to become a “master sushi chef," while sipping sake alongside a five-course meal that includes sashimi, tempura, edamame and sushi rolls. The class is taught every second Wednesday of the month and is $85 per person. For more information, please call 702-607-0700 or visit www.sushisamba.com.

New Joint at Hard Rock Hotel Provides the Ultimate Rock ‘N’ Roll Experience

The Joint, an all-new, $60 million concert facility at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, will open this April. Inheriting its name from the legendary original Hard Rock venue, the new Joint was designed by the renowned Montreal-based architectural design firm Scéno Plus with a capacity to hold 4,000 people. Offering seven premiere VIP hospitality suites and an innovative sound and lighting system, the new Joint will double in size while keeping the same atmosphere as the original venue. The new Joint features 700 balcony seats, WiFi access, four dressing rooms, a green room, 36 flat screens throughout the venues and much more. For more information, please contact Cherryl Kaopua, Kirvin Doak Communications, ckaopua@kirvindoak.com.

ND’s Fuego to Open at Rio

ND’s Fuego – The Evolution of Nightlife debuts a multi-faceted club experience beginning Feb. 12 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. The Latin-themed nightclub provides a total sensory experience with state-of-the-art technology and integrated performances by talented dancers and singers backed by live music. Interludes with surreal characters, elaborate costumes, high-tech digital imaging and guest performances from world-renowned DJs make ND’s Fuego a premier nightlife destination. The venue will accommodate up to 1,000 guests and will feature some of the biggest names in the music industry. For more information, please contact Deanna Pettit, Harrah’s Entertainment, dpettit@harrahs.com.

John Huntington Set to Open High-End Tattoo Lounge inside the Palms

Premier nightclub promoter John Huntington will open his new tattoo lounge, Huntington Ink, this spring inside the Palms Casino Resort. The co-producer and star of A&E’s hit reality show “Inked” returns to the Palms with a high-end, Asian inspired tattoo lounge that will replace Hart & Huntington. Reflecting Huntington’s love for the Asian culture and his martial arts background in Jujitsu and Muy Thai, the newly designed lounge will feature previous work on an interactive wall of touch screen units. Huntington will also incorporate a tattoo stage and state-of-the-art sound system for guest DJs and the nightclub guru’s friends. For more information, please contact Larry Fink, Palms, larry.fink@palms.com.

The Palazzo Unveils Enchanting Entertainment Experience

The Palazzo has introduced The Living Garden, a unique entertainment experience combining the beauty of nature, classical music and graceful choreography. Featuring three statue-like female performers adorned with elaborate make-up and costumes, the entertainment experience begins with a procession to the base of the cascading waterfall inside The Palazzo, where the elegant transformation from statue to living fountain evolves. They then proceed to the second floor and enter The Shoppes at The Palazzo, where they are greeted by two living vine characters. These stunning, mysterious female vines stand over nine feet tall, as they interact with shoppers and guests, posing for photos, teasing the crowd and moving with acrobatic grace and flexibility. For more information, please contact Amy Carlson, The Venetian/Palazzo, amy.carlson@venetian.com.

Rita Rudner Extends as Harrah’s Las Vegas Headliner Until 2012

Rita Rudner, the accomplished comedienne, screenwriter, best-selling author and actress, has announced that she will extend her stay as headliner at Harrah’s Las Vegas until January 2012. Rudner has enjoyed a successful run at Harrah’s since October 2006, prior to which, she had a six-year headlining engagement on the Las Vegas Strip, performing more than 2,000 shows before almost a million people. For more information, please contact Jamie Nielsen, Harrah’s Las Vegas, jnielsen@harrahs.com.

The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas Awarded Four Stars

The Venetian and its sister-property The Palazzo Las Vegas, which are both owned and operated by affiliates of Las Vegas Sands Corp., have been honored with the prestigious Mobil Four-Star Awards. This is the first year The Palazzo has been rated and it joins the list of overall 2009 recipients as one of its newest additions. For the fourth consecutive year, The Venetian tops the list as the largest property on the highly-regarded list of 137 hotels in North America. For more information, please contact Amy Carlson, The Venetian and The Palazzo, amy.carlson@venetian.com.

SkyLofts and Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand Receive Mobil Five-Star Honors

Mobil Travel Guide has announced its highest accolade, Mobil Five-Stars, to first-time recipient SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand and three-time winner Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand. With only 44 Mobil Five-Star hotel winners for 2009, this rating distinguishes SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand as one of the top hotels in the United States and Canada. Joël Robuchon is one of only 20 Mobil Five-Star restaurant winners in 2009. Mobil Travel Guide’s ratings process is based on more than 750 standardized criteria for hotels, more than 250 for restaurants, and more recently, 450 different criteria for spas, making it the most rigorous and comprehensive in the industry. For more information, please contact Sandy Zanella, MGM MIRAGE, zanellas@mgmmirage.com.

Also see Olio at http://drforgot.com

Las Vegas Happenings

2009-01-04T14:19:00.001-08:00

DATELINE LAS VEGAS

JANUARY 2009

Las Vegas Convention Center – 50th Anniversary

In April 1959, community leaders realized their vision of Las Vegas becoming a leading convention destination when the Las Vegas Convention Center opened and hosted the World Congress of Flight. Since then, Las Vegas has become the premier convention destination and the convention center has grown to more than 3 million square feet. The Las Vegas Convention Center regularly hosts more than 1.5 million delegates per year resulting in approximately $2.5 billion in non-gaming economic impact. This year, the Convention Center celebrates its 50th anniversary. For more information, please contact Jeremy Handel, LVCVA, jhandel@lvcva.com.

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art to Debut “Classic Contemporary”

On Jan. 23, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) will debut “Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends.” On loan from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, the collection will feature contemporary masterworks by such iconic artists as Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Ellsworth Kelly, Sol Lewitt and Frank Stella, to name a few. The compelling exhibition will be on view at BGFA through September 8, 2009.

For more information, please contact Rebecca Ingram Frisch, MGM MIRAGE, ringram@mgmirage.com.

David Spade Brings His Stand-up Act to The Venetian

The Venetian has announced that comedian and actor David Spade will join its line-up of entertainment at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino for a series of limited engagements in 2009. Best known for his sarcastic sense of humor and cutting one-liners, Spade’s stand-up performance runs 75 minutes and features real-life situations that only he can turn into comedy. Spade begins performances in January inside the 742-seat Venetian Showroom. For more information, please contact Leann Tinch, The Venetian, leann.tinch@venetian.com.

Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort Offers Sushi & Sake Lessons

Master Sushi Chef of Loews Hotels, Chef Osamu “Fuji” Fujita, will personally conduct sushi classes every second Saturday, starting Jan. 10, of every month through 2009 at 3 p.m. inside Marssa restaurant at Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort. The two-hour sushi and sake clinic is designed to educate participants about traditional Tokyo and Osaka-style Japanese cuisine in a fun, hands-on environment. For more information, please contact Raquel Sanchez, Loews Lake Las Vegas, rsanchez@loewshotels.com.

Trump Hotel Las Vegas Invites Guests to Stay a Little Longer

Starting January 1, Trump Hotel Las Vegas will offer a guaranteed complimentary late check-out of 4 p.m. for all guests. Unprecedented for a hotel destination located on the Las Vegas Strip, the late check-out time will provide guests with a few more hours to fully enjoy all that Las Vegas has to offer. Certain blackout dates may apply. For more information, please contact Erin McCleskey, SK+G, erin.mccleskey@skgadv.com.

CityCenter to Launch Search for More Than 12,000 Employees

Beginning Jan. 5, CityCenter will be accepting applications via www.citycentercareers.com to fill more than 12,000 jobs, marking the largest single new employment opportunity in Las Vegas history. CityCenter will be hiring for positions at ARIA Resort & Casino, Vdara Hotel & Spa and Crystals, the development’s retail and entertainment district. In addition, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas and The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences, each managed by independent companies, will be accepting applications through the web site beginning spring 2009. For more information, please contact Natalie Mounier, Kirvin Doak Communications, nmounier@kirvindoak.com.

Final Curtain Falls on MAMMA MIA!

Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! will end its record-breaking engagement at Mandalay Bay Theatre Sunday, Jan. 4. After nearly six years on the Las Vegas Strip, MAMMA MIA! set the precedent for musicals in Las Vegas celebrating more than 2,200 performances and 2 million guests. MAMMA MIA! premiered at Mandalay Bay Theatre on February 13, 2003. The Mandalay Bay Theatre will welcome Disney’s The Lion King on May 2. For more information, please contact Adrianne Offermann, Kirvin Doak Communications, aoffermann@kirvindoak.com.

Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower to Host Smooth Jazz Ladies Night

The Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower will host a regular Smooth Jazz Ladies Night at Romance Lounge on Wednesdays through March 11 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Ladies are invited to enjoy an unparalleled view of Las Vegas from Level 107 of the Stratosphere Tower, fabulous drink specials including half-price martinis, live jazz by the William Moran Jazz Trio and the chance to win a designer purse and other giveaways. For more information, please contact Michael Gilmartin, American Casino & Entertainment Properties, michael.gilmartin@acepllc.com.

Baby Its Cold Outside

2008-12-19T14:13:00.000-08:00

Paralysis of Analysis

Don’t let your heart be snowbound: Yes, Las Vegas is in the Mohave Desert. Yes, the desert is hot and dry. Yes, the average precipitation in Las Vegas is about 2.75” annually, but when it rains, “gully washers” start high in the foothills on the west side of town and cascade down onto the Strip a little more than 300 feet below, then down to Henderson, another 300 feet or so, and finally into Lake Mead. The County has spent millions of dollars to tame the flooding with catch basins strategically placed throughout the Las Vegas Valley and for the most part it works pretty well. No longer do cars float in the Strip Hotel Casino parking lots, and those lucky enough to be visiting during a desert rainstorm are no longer treated to Mother Nature’s fury. But the snow… well, that’s another story.

Oh the weather outside was frightful: Earlier this week a storm blew down from Alaska and Canada and through the desert. This happens every 5-8 years or so and the Las Vegas valley sees a sprinkling of show but not very often and not for very long. But records are made to be broken, right? The 3.6 inches that fell on Vegas last Wednesday was the heaviest snowfall in recorded history. That is not a misprint 3.6 inches was a record. McCarran International airport was shut down tighter than the lid on a pickle jar, and I-15 northbound to Utah and southbound to California was shut down. U.S. 95 north toward Reno and south toward Boulder City and Arizona was shut down. The city came to a grinding halt. Thousands of airline passengers were stranded. Of course, there are worse places to be stranded than Las Vegas, unless of course, you gambled all your money and had your airline ticket pinned to the inside of your underwear. Nobody was Leaving Las Vegas.”

The fountain of knowledge was turned off: Nevada, like most other states is experiencing an economic slowdown. Two rural schools had meetings planned to see if they would be eliminated forever. One, on Mount Charleston, was set to have a town meeting Wednesday to discuss its future but the meeting was snowed out. So were Christmas concerts, plays, and other school activities were all canceled. School administrators got their heads together and fortunately didn’t hurt themselves, but decided to close the schools Thursday. Let me repeat, 3.6” of snow. Of course, as luck would have it, Thursday was bright and sunny and teachers and students had the day off but without an opportunity to play in the departed, melted snow.

Are there bargains in Vegas?: The MGM seems to think so.

MGM GRAND AND THE SIGNATURE AT MGM GRAND MAKE ESCAPING EASY
WITH MASTERCARD® WORLDWIDE

Book Stay with MasterCard Card and Receive 30 Percent off Dinners, Shows and Spa Services!

This winter, Las Vegas visitors can indulge in a luxury getaway without busting their budget. MGM Grand, a AAA Four Diamond hotel, and The Signature at MGM Grand, a non-smoking, non-gaming luxury resort, are partnering with MasterCard Worldwide to offer a valuable experience and savings to cardholders and guests. Now through January 30, 2009, guests are invited to enjoy great hotel rates paired with incredible discounts on dining, entertainment, select retail and spa purchases when charged to the room. Whether relaxing or indulging, this limited time offer allows visitors to save while splurging. Offering the best of both worlds, The Signature at MGM Grand provides a peaceful retreat, just moments from the “Maximum Vegas” excitement of MGM Grand.

HOW IT WORKS: Book a suite, from $129 per night, at The Signature at MGM Grand or a room at MGM Grand, from $89 per night, with a valid MasterCard card. Receive 30 percent off bars, restaurants, select retail outlets, shows and spa services when you charge to your room and pay with your MasterCard card.*

MGM Grand offerings that can be charged to the hotel bill include:
 Award-winning dining featuring the culinary creations of some of the finest chefs such as Tom Colicchio, Michael Mina, Wolfgang Puck and the world’s most starred chef Joël Robuchon
 World-class entertainment including Cirque du Soleil’s KÀ, a renowned production combining acrobatic performances, martial arts, puppetry, multimedia and pyrotechnics to bring the epic saga of separated twins to life; and MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris, celebrating the artistry of the nude
 MGM Grand Spa’s pampering treatments for the mind, body and soul

HOW TO BOOK: Call 1-800-929-1111 and use booking code “SIG007” for The Signature at MGM Grand.

*Must book and pay with a valid MasterCard card. Book by January 30, 2009 and actualize by January 30, 2009. The 30 percent discount excludes room and tax. Guests will charge items to their rooms and the 30 percent discount will be applied upon check-out. Discount may be applied to dining, entertainment and spa. Please inquire for specific rules and regulations. Rates and availability vary.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kate Evans/Joan Bloom, M Booth & Associates
(212) 481-7000
katee@mbooth.com or joanbl@mbooth.com

About The Signature at MGM Grand: For a gratifying getaway, look no further than The Signature at MGM Grand, ideally situated away from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip. Ranging from 550 to 1,500 square feet, suites feature king-size, pillow-top beds draped in 300-thread count sheets and soft, down comforters; bathrooms stocked with plush towels, cozy robes and June Jacobs’ spa products; and in-suite kitchens featuring top-of-the-line appliances and cabinets filled with bone china, glass stemware, sterling silverware and a selection of cookware. Guests also enjoy The Signature’s private pool complex, state-of-the-art fitness centers and superior concierge staff readily available to customize a dream vacation. While staying at The Signature’s non-smoking, non-gaming environment, guests are only steps away from the excitement of MGM Grand’s electrifying casino, award-winning dining, world-class entertainment, dynamic nightlife and luxurious spa and salon.

A little blogging music Maestro… One more time with Elvis doing, “Viva Las Vegas.”

Dr. Forgot

Vegas Weekend Update

2008-11-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Vegas Weekend Update

What happens in Las Vegas…

TIGER SHARKS NOW LURK AT MANDALAY BAY: Species Ranked Second Deadliest to Great White Shark. Two female tiger sharks now rule the waters of Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. The only tiger sharks available for viewing in the U.S., these exciting new additions can be identified by their distinct tiger-striped markings in the 1.6-million-gallon aquarium. Attributing to the tiger sharks’ impressive reputation are their sharp, serrated teeth, powerful jaw and insatiable, non-discriminating appetite. These sharks have been known to consume unusual items such as license plates, tires, baseballs and other debris – earning them the moniker “garbage cans of the sea.” Currently, Shark Reef’s two tiger sharks are more than six feet in length, and the species can reach up to 14 feet in length. The scavengers lurk in shallow, coastal waters in tropical and temperate regions such as Hawaii and Australia.
For more information, visit www.mandalaybay.com, www.sharkreef.com or call (702) 632-4555.

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas to Open in December
Encore, the new signature resort in the Wynn collection, is located next door to flagship property Wynn Las Vegas. Encore, set to open in December, is a distinct resort destination with its own repertoire of accommodations, culinary offerings and leisure activities including 11 retail outlets, seven cozy bars and lounges, five restaurants, one ultra-chic nightclub and an opulent spa and salon. The Encore experience includes a landscape of foliage and shimmering pools of water. Butterflies, vibrant carpets, mosaic tiles and textured walls draw you into juxtaposition between indoors and out. For more information, contact Jennifer Dunne, Wynn Las Vegas, jennifer.dunne@wynnlasvegas.com.

Michelin Selects 2009 Restaurant and Hotel Selections for Las Vegas
The world’s most discriminating restaurant and lodging guidebook – the prestigious, 107-year-old Michelin Guide from France – recently released its 2009 edition to showcase Las Vegas’ offerings. The Michelin Guide Las Vegas 2009 features 140 restaurants and 32 hotels. Among Las Vegas restaurants receiving coveted starred ratings: Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand (three stars – the guidebook’s top rating); Picasso at Bellagio, Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace and Alex at Wynn Las Vegas (two stars); and Alizé at the Palms, André’s Downtown, Aureole at Mandalay Bay, Bradley Ogden at Caesars Palace, Daniel Boulud Brasserie at Wynn Las Vegas, DJT at Trump International, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand, Le Cirque at Bellagio, Michael Mina at Bellagio, miX at Mandalay Bay, Nobu at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Restaurant Charlie at Palazzo and Wing Lei at Wynn Las Vegas (one star). One star means a very good restaurant in its category. Two stars mean excellent cooking, worth a detour. Three stars mean exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. For more information, contact Ceci De La Montanya, Allison & Partners, ceci@allisonpr.com.

AAA Announces 2009 Five Diamond Award Recipients
AAA recently announced the hotels and restaurants that achieved Five Diamond status, the travel authority’s highest rating. For 2009, Las Vegas AAA Five Diamond-rated hotels include Bellagio (eighth consecutive year), Four Seasons Las Vegas (tenth consecutive year), Skylofts at MGM Grand (third consecutive year), Wynn Las Vegas (third consecutive year) and The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino (second consecutive year). Las Vegas AAA Five Diamond-rated restaurants include Alex at Wynn Las Vegas (fourth consecutive year), Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand (third consecutive year), Le Cirque at Bellagio (sixth consecutive year), Picasso at Bellagio (eighth consecutive year) and first-time winner Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace. AAA rates nearly 60,000 restaurants and lodgings each year throughout all 50 states, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, providing the broadest coverage of any U.S. rating system, both geographically and by number of properties rated. Of those, only 103 resorts and 59 restaurants earned the highly coveted AAA Five Diamond rating for 2009. For more information, contact Heather Hunter, AAA, hhunter@national.aaa.com.

Las Vegas Art Museum Presents L.A. Now
The Las Vegas Art Museum is pleased to present L.A. Now, curated by David Pagel. The exhibit displays 20 emerging and established artists who are currently living and working in Los Angeles. The artists work in a wide variety of styles and media; each has gained national or international recognition for artistic achievement. Mr. Pagel is an art critic for the LA Times and a professor at Claremont Graduate School. The exhibition opens for regular viewing on Dec. 12, and remains on view through March 8, 2009. For more information, contact Anne Kellogg, Las Vegas Art Museum, akellogg@lasvegasartmuseum.org.

NOBHILL TAVERN (Formerly NOBHILL) Debuts at MGM Grand
NOBHILL TAVERN by Michael Mina infuses a new concept into the
ever-evolving Las Vegas dining transformation. Tavern cuisine, an innovative drink menu that pays homage to classic cocktails, and an expansive lounge area where guests can relax while listening to a music selection of popular songs from a variety of genres make up the NOBHILL TAVERN experience. The menu affords guests the opportunity to enjoy Michael Mina’s signature trio concept. For more information, contact Michael McKiski, MGM MIRAGE, at mmckiski@mgmmirage.com.

Pianist Philip Fortenberry of “Jersey Boys” Debuts “Liberace and Me”
Philip Fortenberry, a solo pianist, improvisational composer and cast member of “Jersey Boys,” has debuted his new acoustic cabaret-style piano performance “Liberace and Me” for a six-month limited engagement through March 23 at the Liberace Museum. As a tribute to the legacy of Liberace, the 45-minute, afternoon show features original compositions, selections from the classic repertoire and Broadway music in the 75-seat Cabaret Showroom. For more information, contact Shelley Mansholt, Mansholt PR, at Shelley@mansholtpr.com.

Bar Louie Opens at Town Square
Bar Louie, a casual neighborhood restaurant and bar, has opened a location at Town Square. The popular Chicago-based chain is known for its signature sandwiches, uniquely prepared appetizers, inventive pizzas and specialty cocktails. The 6,500-square-foot space seats more than 200 and features design elements characteristic of all Bar Louie locations. The venue, which is the 49th in the nation, is open for lunch, dinner and late-night dining. For more information, contact Amy Weisenburger, Bar Louie America, at amyw@restaurants-america.com.

The Holidays Arrive at Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens will welcome winter with a holiday display rich in nostalgia. The display will feature flying reindeer made of whole pecans, a charming snowman family created with white carnations and an oversized wreath adorned with pine cones and a golden bow. The centerpiece is a 32-foot Shasta Fir tree featuring more than 12,000 holiday lights. The holiday display is available for guests to enjoy December 7, 2008 through January 3, 2009. For more information, contact Rebecca Ingram Frisch, MGM MIRAGE, at ringram@mgmmirage.com.

Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Celebrates 50 Years with Big-Name Entertainment
The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR), considered the world’s premier rodeo, features 10 straight days of the best in rodeo competition, with a total of 120 contestants competing every night in seven events. Each December, the top 15 contestants, based on the 2008 Crusher Rentals PRCA World Standings, in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and bull riding qualify to compete at the Wrangler NFR. Some of the biggest names in country music will take the stage at Thomas & Mack Center Dec. 4-13 each day to open the event. Entertainers include Trailer Choir, Jake Owen, Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn, Crystal Shawanda, Red Steagall, Ronnie Milsap, Charlie Daniels, Jewel, Jack Ingram and Matt Lewis as Elvis. For more information, contact Michael Mack, Las Vegas Events, michael@lasvegasevents.com.

Ethel M Chocolates Creates Its Annual Chocolate Wonderland
Located adjacent to its Henderson factory, Ethel M Chocolates has transformed its three-acre Botanical Cactus Garden into a Chocolate Wonderland complete with thousands of sparkling lights, opportunities to visit Santa, and appearances by local choirs. Visitors can wander down the garden’s illuminated cacti pathways and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week excluding Christmas Day. The attraction is free of charge and open to the public through Jan. 1, 2009. For more information, contact Katie Knoch, SK+G, katie.knoch@skgadv.com.

The Springs Preserve Presents Its Second Annual Winter Lights Festival
The Springs Preserve proudly presents its second annual Winter Lights Festival. The lights display in the eight-acre garden and throughout the Preserve is created from half a million LED lights illuminated by solar power, a leading example of a sustainable holiday celebration. Guests enjoy entertainment from roaming performance groups, carriage rides, visits with Santa Claus and Theater Las Vegas’ original puppet show “Dickens Done Over.” Holiday inspired treats and green gift options are available throughout the Preserve. The festival runs 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday through Dec. 21, and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily from Dec. 22-24 and Dec. 26. For more information, please Dawn Barraclough, Springs Preserve, dawn.barraclough@springspreserve.org.

Las Vegas Monorail to Operate on New Year’s Eve with Special Fare
With approximately 300,000 revelers descending upon the Strip on New Year’s Eve, the Las Vegas Monorail will continue to operate even when the Strip closes to vehicles and buses – providing a convenient transportation option for visitors looking to get to the city’s hottest spots safely, quickly and efficiently. The Monorail will be open from 7 a.m. Dec. 31 to 3 a.m. Jan. 1 to transport people throughout the night. The Las Vegas Monorail Company will offer an Unlimited Ride Day Pass for $12. For more information, contact Kristen Hansen, Las Vegas Monorail, kristen@lvmonorail.com.

America’s Party to Bring Fireworks Closer to the Las Vegas Strip
Las Vegas Events and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) will once again partner with Fireworks by Grucci for its annual midnight fireworks display to be launched from nine locations along the Strip. Las Vegas’ famed Fremont Street Experience will host a New Year’s Eve celebration called “TributePalooza.” The world’s best tribute bands will perform 14 hours of live music from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m. on two stages, and will include tribute bands such as Billy Joel, Eagles, David Bowie, KISS, The Rolling Stones, U2, Queen and Aerosmith. The five blocks of the Fremont Street Experience, home to 10 legendary casinos, will be transformed into the biggest private party in town. For more information, contact Michael Mack, Las Vegas Events, michael@lasvegasevents.com.

JW Marriott Las Vegas Celebrates New Year’s Eve
JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa will offer two great ways to ring in the New Year. J. C. Wolloughan’s Irish Pub will offer an all-inclusive, three-course dinner complete with party favors and a champagne toast. The culinary team at Ceres has prepared a four-course dinner menu and champagne reception. Join in the countdown with entertainment provided by DJ Kayle Stevens. For more information, contact Lisa Roughley, Roughley Speaking PR, at lisa@roughleyspeakingpr.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas Offers Ways to Ring in the New Year
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas will offer a four- and five-course gourmet dinner menus at Medici Café & Terrace complemented by party favors, champagne, dancing and live entertainment. Or, guests can join the party in the Firenze Lobby Lounge for dancing, a selection of fine libations and light dining fare. For more information, contact Bonnie Crail, Crail Communications, at bcrail@crailcommunications.com.

BELLAGIO PRESENTS ‘CLASSIC CONTEMPORARY: LICHTENSTEIN, WARHOL & FRIENDS’ New Exhibition in Partnership with Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego Debuts January 23, 2009. Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) is pleased to announce the debut of “Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends. Organized in partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD), the exhibition will feature important paintings and sculpture by major contemporary artists with a focus on the 1960s and ’70s. The exhibit will include many of the major works in MCASD’s collection, primarily large-scale paintings along with sculpture and works on paper. The iconic artists to be featured were the leaders of their generation – Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly, Sol LeWitt and Ed Ruscha, among others. Their innovative use of material and imagery was at the forefront of Pop Art and Minimalism worldwide. See www.bellagio.com or www.ticketweb.com.

A little blogging music Maestro… “Viva Las Vegas” sung by Elvis.
Dr. Forgot

http://drforgot.com

Read me also at http://vegasnews.squarespace.com/dr-forgot-andrew-r-nixon/

Vegas Weekend Update

2008-11-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

Election is over, Back to Unreality
Las Vegas Happenings

Aliante Station Celebrates Grand Opening Tuesday: Station Casinos’ newest property, Aliante Station, will open Nov. 11 in North Las Vegas. The $675 million Aliante Station will offer 202 hotel guest rooms and suites; six restaurants and a food court; 14,000 square feet of meeting, banquet and convention space; Regal Cinemas’ 16-screen movie theatre; Access Showroom, a 600-plus-seat entertainment concert venue and an array of popular gaming choices including traditional table games, a poker room, state-of-the-art race and sports book and slot machines. Aliante Station will represent Station Casinos’ 11th hotel-casino and its 18th property in Southern Nevada. For more information, contact Lori Nelson, Station Casinos, at lori.nelson@stationcasinos.com.

Caesars Palace Tops Off $1 Billion Expansion: Caesars Palace topped off its new 23-story, Octavius Tower as part of a $1 billion expansion. The resort’s sixth tower will add 665 hotel rooms to the property and will be located next to a new 263,000 square foot meeting and convention center and three new pools. The expansion is slated for completion in mid-2009. For more information, contact Debbie Munch, Caesars Palace, at munchd@harrahs.com.

CityCenter Tops Out Mandarin Oriental: CityCenter celebrated the topping out of its third high-rise tower Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas. The 47-story tower is part of MGM MIRAGE’s CityCenter project, a more than $9 billion urban metropolis set to open late 2009. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas are comprised of approximately 227 luxury condominiums situated on the upper floors of the 400-room hotel tower. Met with strong demand, Mandarin Oriental has sold 93 percent of its residential units, generating $656 million in sales. For more information, contact Natalie Mounier, Kirvin Doak, at nmounier@kirvindoak.com.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Celebrates Expansion Milestone: As part of its $850 million expansion project, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino topped off its new North Tower slated for completion in September 2009. The 17-story building will feature 479 guest rooms, state-of-the-art meeting space, 10 luxurious pool suites and a 3,400 square foot penthouse. For more information, contact Cherryl Kaopua, Kirvin Doak, at ckaopua@kirvindoak.com.

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts Announces New Development Plans: The Smith Center for the Performing Arts has announced new development plans for the world-class performing arts center to be built Downtown. Citing recommendations from design architect David M. Schwarz, the exterior of the Smith Center will now be built using Indiana Limestone instead of rose met quartzite. In addition, the 650-seat small hall previously envisioned for the campus has been removed from the building program. Plans for the cultural center now include a total of three theaters. The 2,050-seat main hall will be home for the Las Vegas Philharmonic and touring Broadway shows, in addition to housing the Nevada Ballet. A smaller, 300-seat theater will have a stage facing Symphony Park and host jazz, cabaret and other performances. The third theater will be a 200-seat flexible studio used for rehearsals, children’s theater and local community events. Groundbreaking for The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is slated for early 2009. For more information, please contact Morgan Kise, Kirvin Doak, at mkise@kirvindoak.com.

Harrah’s Las Vegas Unveils Modern “M” Suites: Harrah’s Las Vegas recently introduced the new “M” suite product featuring sophisticated design and an array of high-tech accessories. The focal point of the bedroom is the dramatic headboard featuring a bold white frame with a chocolate brown patent leather center, set against a deep brown wall with vivid red velvet striping. Convenience and technology meet in the “M” suites with digital amenities including a top-of-the-line Denon sound system with MP3 player docking station and CD/ DVD player, sleek Bang & Olufsen telephones and wireless internet connection. Rooms also are equipped with 42” flat-panel, HD television sets and built-in screens in the bathroom mirrors. The 33 new “M” suites are located in the Mardi Gras tower and complement the property’s other recently renovated standard guest rooms and suites. For more information, contact Jamie Nielsen, Harrah’s Entertainment, at jnielsen@harrahs.com.

ELEVEN Spa to Open at Town Square: ELEVEN, South Florida’s top spa escape, has announced that it will open a 20,000 square-foot sister location on the Las Vegas Strip before the end of the year. ELEVEN Vegas will be located in Town Square, the 1.5 million-square-foot regional lifestyle center with more than 100 shops, 12 restaurants and several entertainment venues. The spa will open in early December. The ELEVEN brand includes spas, signature skincare and makeup lines, a clothing boutique and more. ELEVEN Vegas will offer features such as a pool area with crystal chandeliers dripping into the water, a large specialty hair salon, 30 treatment rooms, 11 makeup stations, a signature brow bar and its very own helipad. For more information, contact Danika Daly, Shamin Abas PR, at danika@shaminabaspr.com.

Disney’s The Lion King to Open at Mandalay Bay: Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay have announced the award-winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING coming to the Mandalay Bay Theatre May 2, 2009, with preview performances beginning April 20, 2009. This production will join the six other highly successful companies of THE LION KING around the world in New York, London, Hamburg, Paris, Tokyo and Fukuoka. Mandalay Bay’s production of THE LION KING will be virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon. For more information, contact Erin Randell, MGM MIRAGE, erandell@mgmmirage.com.

Donny & Marie and Flamingo Sign Two-Year Deal: Flamingo Las Vegas has announced that brother-sister duo Donny & Marie will extend their contract as the resort’s headliners for two years, through October 2010. Presented by Danny Gans and Chip Lightman of GansLight Entertainment, Donny & Marie is an energetic, 90-minute variety show that incorporates singing, dancing, comedy and the stars’ signature brother-sister banter. For more information, contact Jamie Nielsen, Harrah’s Entertainment, at jnielsen@harrahs.com.

The Real Deal! Premieres at The Venetian: The Real Deal!, the first ever live, interactive poker-themed stage show, has arrived at The Venetian Showroom at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino. Starring comedian roaster Vinnie Favorito as the host, the world’s greatest poker professionals and the entire audience, the show introduces a new paradigm in entertainment and establishes a completely original live show format that combines fast-paced action and humor with the latest in wireless technology and abundant prizes, including a chance to win $1 million. The Real Deal! occurs Tuesday through Sunday with shows at 5 p.m. and primetime performances on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $35 - $125. For more information, contact LeAnn Tinch, The Venetian, at leann.tinch@venetian.com.

SUSHISAMBA Strip Launches Signature SAMBAbrunch and SUSHI+SAKE 101:
SUSHISAMBA Strip is now serving its signature SAMBAbrunch every Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located on the retail level of The Shoppes at The Palazzo, SUSHISAMBA now offers a family-style brunch menu complete with Continental and Brazilian, or Feijoada, breakfast selections for $22.95 per person. Additionally, the restaurant has announced an interactive, two-hour teaching and tasting event called SUSHI+SAKE 101. Beginning Nov. 5, participants will learn what it takes to become a master sushi chef while sipping sake alongside a five-course meal. The class introduces students to the art and history of this unique cuisine. For more information, contact Marina Nicola, Wagner Junker, at marina@wagnerjunker.com.

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Extends Popular Exhibition Through New Years:
Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art has announced the extension of its “American Modernism” exhibition. The compelling collection now can be viewed through Jan. 2, 2009. Organized by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), the exhibit features masterworks by Georgia O’Keeffe, Stuart Davis, Marsden Hartley, Arshile Gorky and others. For more information, contact Rebecca Ingram Frisch, MGM MIRAGE, ringram@mgmmirage.com.

Paris Las Vegas to Host 2nd Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration: Following last year’s inaugural celebration, Paris Las Vegas has announced its 2nd Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration set to kick-off at 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 20. Honoring the long tradition regulated by French law, Beaujolais Nouveau, a red wine made from Gamay grapes in the Beaujolais region of France, is released no sooner than the third Thursday of November when it is ready for consumption just six weeks after the harvest. Paris Las Vegas will host special events, tastings and unique Beaujolais Nouveau wine pairing menus at its restaurants. For more information, contact Tanesa Medlin, Mixed Media Entertainment, at tanesa@mmelv.com.

Virgin America Expands New York-Las Vegas Route: Virgin America, the California-based airline, announced it will add another daily non-stop flight between New York’s John F. Kennedy International (JFK) and Las Vegas McCarran International (LAS) airports. Effective Dec. 11, 2008, Virgin America will have two daily flights on this busy travel route. On Sept. 4, Virgin America launched the non-stop JFK-LAS route with a star-studded inaugural flight. For more information, contact Abby Lunardini, Virgin America, at abby.lunardini@virginamerica.com.

Catholics Humble in Las Vegas: Little known facts about the Catholic Church in Las Vegas --There are more churches in Las Vegas than casinos. During Sunday services at the offertory, some worshipers contribute casino chips as opposed to cash. Some are sharing their winnings - some are hoping to win. Since they get chips from so many different casinos, and they are worth money, the Catholic churches are required to send all the chips into the diocese for sorting. Once sorted into the respective casino chips, one junior priest takes the chips and makes the rounds to the casinos turning chips into cash. And he is known as .....................The Chip Monk! For more information put your tongue in your cheek and pass this one on to a friend.

A little blogging music Maestro… “Viva Las Vegas,” By Elvis.

Dr. Forgot

http://drforgot.com

Read me also at http://vegasnews.squarespace.com/dr-forgot-andrew-r-nixon/

Where to Go, What to Do

2008-08-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

Then and Now in Las Vegas

Came to Vegas in a Jaguar, Left on a Greyhound: Lots of jokes have been told about Las Vegas. Plenty of myths abound. Las Vegas had been called little more than phony glitter and tinsel. But I’m here to tell you that under all that phony glitter and tinsel lire real, live, Honest-to-God glitter and tinsel. But you’ll never know what’s happening if you don’t come to see us. And when you do, some of your options include:

Strike Gold at the Nugget: An old Sinatra standard croons, “Fly me to the moon and let me play among the stars…” There are plenty of stars in Las Vegas and the Golden Nugget is doing their best to get you here on a comp. Continental’s One Pass mileage program turned 21 this month and since they are now old enough to play in a casino, the Nugget has decided to give away more than 21 million Continental One Pass miles. Awards were given August 9 as part of the winnings of the Golden Nugget poker tournament. Texan Bill Shiver won the tourney and walked, uh, flew away with 21 million frequent flier miles on Continental. Ten other winners in the poker tourney had miles added to their Continental One Pass portfolio as did another Texan who won a slot tourney at the same time. More info at jmcvay@goldennugget.com Book online directly at www.goldennugget.com.

Nugget Also Rides, and that’s no bull: The Golden Nugget has a history of supporting local activities. In that spirit they have agreed to partner with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Association to be the host hotel for the PBR World Finals competition. The Hotel will house the competitors (the riders, no bull) as well as social events. The Championship will be held from Oct. 31 thorough Oct. 9. Bulls will be bucking at the UNLV Thomas and Mack Center but festivities will be at the Golden Nugget. Special packages for attendees are available. More info at jmcvay@goldennugget.com or book directly online at www.goldennugget.com.

Helping Las Vegas Homeless: A special benefit called “Listen to my Heart” will be preformed September 6 by a group of Las Vegas Strip performers. “Listen to my Heart; the Songs of David Friedman” will be performed by performers from such hit venues as Forever Plaid, Phantom, Mama Mia, Jubilee, and many other Vegas hit shows. The performance will benefit families who have become homeless and will help them get back on their feet. It will be held Saturday, September 6 at the Community Lutheran Church. More info at BruceEwing@gmail.com. Or buy tickets direct at www.FamilyPromiseLVTickets.com. Phone 702.245.0992.

Japanese Bomb Pearl Harbor: Sunday, December 7, 1941 in the lazy climes of the Hawaiian Isles Japanese bombers surprised residents of Hawaii and American sailors stationed there with a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Sixty seven years to the day another group will be running. But this time there will be no war, except perhaps among participants, no sneak attack, and the running will take place along a given route. The famed Las Vegas Marathon will be run December 7, 2008. Japanese companies will be among the sponsors and participants. The international Japanese marketing company will include Midori Uekusa and Roy Kawaguchi. Las Vegas Marathon 2008 Executive Director will continue the record setting legacy of the Las Vegas Marathon as it wends its way between the Strip and downtown Glitter Gulch. This time the only guns to be heard will be the starting gun as Elvis belts out “Viva Las Vegas st the Mandalay Bay starting point. Nissan will sponsor a 2-day Quality of Life Expo preceding the marathon. This promises to be one of the most fun events held in Las Vegas. If tradition follows, participants will include several Elvi (plural of Elvis), Santas, and costumed crusaders from popular movies. For additional information go to http://vegasbuzznews.com.

A little blogging music Maestro... Bob Seger’s “Against the Wind.”

Dr. Forgot
See me also at http://vegasbuzznews.com/
and http://drforgot.com

Vegas Update

2008-06-07T22:22:00.000-07:00

Vegas Happenings

Dibs on Ribs – Adam had ‘em: I tell you no fibs when I talk about ribs. UNLV Professor and restaurant guru Adam Carmer is a ribologist. He’s the owner of Adams Ribs at 4770 Maryland Parkway near the UNLV campus. Adam has come up with a libation to go with his ribs and he calls it the amazing Barbecue Margarita. In order to determine the likeability of his invention Adam has invited the Las Vegas Chief Executive Officer and libation connoisseur, Hizzhonor Mayor Oscar Goodman to be among the first to preview the provocative new cocktail. The event will be held Tuesday Junbe 10th beginning at 5 p.m. more info at BarbaraKenig@aol.com.

Steaks well done after the fire: Those pyromaniacs are at it again at Monte Carlo Resort & Casino. Only this time the only flame in the house is the grill. The Light Group has opened the Brand, which is one part classic steakhouse, one part lounge, and all parts good food and fun. The 5500 square foot dining and lounge area is one of the most spacious on the Strip. And offers all the traditional classic steakhouse items plus a 120 ounce (that’s 7 ½ pounds) beef porterhouse for six. Enjoy it with five of your closest friends. More info at aacuna@lightlv.com.

You’ve gotta be ribbin’ me: Those rib joints seem to have it all together. Famous Dave’s newest location opened at 4390 Blue Diamond Road joins his other spots to not only serve yummy ribs but supports the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Southern Nevada. Dave’s has sponsored a motorcycle “Ride for Dreams” with over 1,000 participants as well as several other fundraisers throughout the year. Famous Dave strives to be a good citizen to the community. More information about his three locations can be found at www.famousdaves.com.

Step aside High Tea: The Donald has taken a British tradition to a new level. High Champagne at DJT, the Trump International Hotel & Tower signature restaurant does a fantastic twist on daily happy hour. Trumps finest champagnes are matched with delicacies from the DJT menu. What kinds of things go better with champagne? Lots, including caviar and oysters on a half shell. More information at Katie.knoch@skgadv.com.

One good way to get high: Those zanies who like to hang out at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino are back by popular demand. Masquerade Show in the Sky, features dancers in costumes on floats suspended from above the crowd. The show is a little naughty, but what happens at the Rio... And this show happens on the hour from 7 until midnight and is FREE! More info at lblanchette@lvrio.harrahs.com.

A little blogging music Maestro... Our favorite weekend song by the King, “Viva Las Vegas.”

See my blog at http://drforgot.com

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Happenings

2008-06-01T13:26:00.000-07:00

What Happens in Vegas....

Torrid Ain’t Horrid: Hawaiian Tropic Zone’s bar and patio areas at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino transforms into Torrid nightclub every Wednesday through Saturday night beginning at 10 p.m. Torrid features drink specials, DJ-spun music, go-go dancers and various celebrity hosts. There is no cover charge to attend Torrid and bottle service will be available by reservation. More information at: Brad Seidel, Kirvin Doak Communications, at bseidel@kirvindoak.com.

Love (Buggy) in Las Vegas: The famous Desert Love Buggy is currently on display at the Nevada State Museum. The Love Buggy is exhibited in the museum’s History Gallery on long-term loan from owner Tim Cashman. It is a 1911 Sears-Roebuck Model K business car. In 1939, the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce bought several antique vehicles to run in that year’s Helldorado Pioneer Parade then offered them for sale to various individuals and organizations willing to restore them for the celebration. The Love Buggy has been restored to its original 1911 condition with funds provided by the Cashman family. This is the first time the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas has exhibited the Love Buggy since it was restored to its original color scheme. For more info at: Teresa Moiola, State of Nevada: tjmoiola@clan.lib.nv.us.

Ho ho ho, hee, hee heee: A stellar lineup of contemporary comedy’s cutting-edge comedians will perform in the COMEDY AFTER HOURS Comedy Club at Fitzgeralds in downtown Las Vegas. Performances are scheduled for 9 p.m., Thursdays through Tuesdays, with additional performances at 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Comics slated to appear through July include Marc Ryan (CMT, CBS and Star Search); Adam Hunter (finalist for this year’s NBC’s Last Comic Standing, recent appearances on Craig Kilborne, Showtime’s White Boyz from the Hood); Tim Young (last year’s finalist for NBC’s Last Comic Standing, recent appearances on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, MTV); Will Marfori (one of the country’s top college acts, recently appeared on Craig Ferguson); Flip Schultz (Last Comic Standing, HBO, Que Loco, Star Search, Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham); Shaun Jones (BET’s Comics View); Tommy Johnagin (May 9th David Letterman show, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, CMT); Rob Little (semi-finalist in this year’s Last Comic Standing, Comcast Comedy Spotlight); and Chad Daniels (Comedy Central Presents).Additional info at (702) 388-2400 or slindsey@fitzgeraldslasvegas.com.

No Restless Palms Here: The Palms Place is the hippest new condo/hotel high rise to open in Las Vegas. The newest tower, appropriately named Fantasy Tower, recently opened to the public. George Maloof has done a superb job marketing the Palms. He’s outfoxed and outmarketed the bigger corporate joints on the Strip. More info at www.palmsplace.com.

A little blogging music Maestro... Against All Odds by Phil Collins.

Dr. Forgot

Romeo, Romeo, Wherefore Art Thou?

2008-05-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

Stupidity Left Untreated is Self Correcting

Was the fighter (pilot) also a lover?: Ah, Nevada politics. Some say that an honest politician is one who will stay bought. Maybe our politicians aren’t any wackier than those of other states, it just seems so. A candidate for Sheriff seems to have run a Ponzi scheme with his helicopter school, another was reportedly murdered by her husband, and a rising star in Nevada politics – a Notre Dame graduate and beauty queen - was charged with four felony counts. Our current governor is doing his best to become one of the wackiest politicians in recent memory.

Everybody loves a salacious saga: During his brief tenure to date the state’s deficit has ballooned to nearly $ 1 billion (with a B). The public yawned. Illegal immigrant maid kept in his basement. Ho hum. Appointed a banking lobbyist to run the Nevada Business and Industry Department - hardly a notice. Secret midnight swearing in ceremony - a one day story. And so it goes with a litany of bumbles, tumbles and ethical lapses. But bring in a potential sex scandal or two and the public loves it.

Jimbo and the bimbo: After then gubernatorial candidate and Mormon Gibbons finished getting soused with his campaign manager and a couple toadies at a bar/restaurant he staggered into the parking lot. There he saw the girl of his dreams. Long dark hair, big boobs and a pretty smile - the cocktail waitress who had come to his table earlier was alone. He walked her into the darkened parking garage then began to, uh, well, let us say, do more than just help find her Hummer. It was a great scandal for a week or two but tapes of the incident mysteriously disappeared and no charges were filed.

Heartache #2 was when you walked out on me: He won the election if not the gold medal for the wrestling event and moved into the governor’s mansion with wife Dawn. After half a year in the Big House, Governor Goofy packed his toiletries and overnight bag and left the Mansion in Dawn’s capable hands. Rumors began to swirl that “Jimmy has a girlfriend.” He denied it. Reports said this was an old high school chum. Of course the fact that she’s 20 years his junior meant either he holds the world’s record for flunking third grade, or it was a false report. Besides, the alleged “other woman” is the respected wife of a surgeon and former nanny (no, not the same as the illegal locked in the basement) and longtime friend. Guv Gibbo hurriedly had the divorce documents sealed from public view and prying eyes.

Wifey number two speaks: Long haired Dawn Gibbons was left behind like Rapunzel to wallow in the fine Mansion. Her lawyer responds to the affair: “The (other) woman has for years stalked the man who could give her the public persona and prestige that apparently she craves and for which she is willing to, concurrently, abandon her husband.” Stay tuned folks. This one has all the ingredients to become a staple on Fox news.

A little blogging music Maestro... Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) by Journey.

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Weekend

2008-05-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

What Happens in Vegas

Weekend Update, Las Vegas: Passing the fire doesn’t mean you must get burned. Native Americans have a custom of “passing the embers” when they move from one place to another. “Famous Dave” Anderson will include his heritage’s custom when her opens his newest “Famous Dave’s Barbeque” Tuesday with a rib cutting ceremony for his newest Famous Dave’s Barbeque on Blue Diamond and 215. Dave started his famous BBQ in Wisconsin and has transferred the good luck embers to each new location. He will offer free tastes to the public and provide support to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. More info at: Erika@braintrustlv.com

Speaking of good food: Dr. and Mrs. Forgot and I stumbled upon a new eating place recently. Makino is a Japanese restaurant that features what they claim to be the world’s best sushi- 60 different varieties. If you limit yourself to sushi, however, you’re missing the fishing boat. A phenomenal variety of salads are also available as well as hot dishes with a vast array of fish, all so fresh that you might have to slap it. The dessert selections range from yummy chocolate dipped large strawberries to individual servings of crème brule, tiramisu, green tea ice cream and others. It is served buffet style.

Speaking of green tea, their Makino green tea is the absolute best. It tastes so good it can’t be healthy. But it is. More info at: www.VegasBuzzNews.com or www.MakinoGreenTea.com.

AAA knows best – or not: The American Automobile Association paints a grim picture of the Memorial Holiday according to local media outlets. AAA says high gas prices and chillier than usual weather will keep crowds down. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is expecting over 300,000. I’d bet on the LVCVA. They are the local experts and their projections are usually right on the money.

Getting to the Root of politics: Wayne Allen Root is the Unknown Candidate, but don’t tell him that. The admitted health nut consumes 85 vitamins, herbs, and supplements each day. His goal is to become the presidential candidate of the Libertarian party. Root can be accused of being a Donald Trump lookalike He’s a self-proclaimed oddsmaker and wannabe politician who will attend the Denver convention in hopes of becoming the third=party candidate. But his bid for the nomination will be more difficult than Hillary’s since ex=Republican Texan Bob Barr jumped into the race. Root has big dreams but clearly the odds do not favor this oddsmaker.

A little blogging music Maestro... Our usual weekend rendition of “Viva Las Vegas."

Dr. Forgot

Trouble in Carson City

2008-05-23T11:21:00.001-07:00

Music Man Ditty Updated

Trouble in Carson City: One of my favorite musicals is “The Music Man.” One song in particular, “Trouble in River City” tells of problems in a bucolic little town. Nevada’s capital, Carson City, is the home (more or less) of Governor Jim Gibbons, former Delta Airlines pilot who was reportedly fired by Delta for missing too much work, then rehired after a reported ethical lapse over some alleged favors over a fuel tax. During his gubernatorial campaign there were allegations of his forcing affections on a cocktail waitress after a bout of drinking, and once in office, he left his wife and moved out of his home (the guv’s mansion, that is). A presidential election is coming soon. This is just too good not to have a song about, so in deference to Professor Howard Hill, we’ll do our own version of “Trouble in Carson City:

Well, either you’re closing your eyes to a series of fiascos you do not wish to acknowledge or you are not aware of the caliber of disaster in the State of Nevada by a Governor who reached a 28% approval rating in just five, count ‘em f-i-v-e months – a feat that took our President five YEARS to accomplish! You’ve got trouble, friend, right here in Carson City. Trouble with a capital T and that rhymes with G and that stands for “Guv.”

Sure I’m a voter. Mighty proud to say I’m mighty proud to take part in my right as an American citizen. Why I proudly display my “I Voted Early” sticker on the front window of my eco-friendly desert dwelling. I consider the hours spent researching political candidates and issues as golden. Helps you cultivate horse sense and a keen eye to read the ballot and eliminate any possibility of a hanging chad.

But just as I say it takes judgment, brains, and maturity to properly serve the people of the great state of Nevada, I say any fool can trick the public into getting elected. And I call that Nevada politics. The first big step on the road to feeding off the lobbyists of Washington Dee Cee.

I say to you, first it is a sip of wine at dinner with a group of friends, then after each one has ordered a round of booze you end up in a wrestling match with a cocktail waitress and try to blame it on not being able to find your car in a dark parking garage.

And the next thing you know he’s been voted into office and the state ends up with a half billion dollar deficit. Friends, you done elected a buffoon, that’s buffoon with a capital B and that rhymes with G and that stands for Guv.

Then week after week he gets to fritterin’ I say, fritterin away his time on the Official State Computer, going to the web sites of his old cronies who take him on vacation and treat him royally, which some say is in exchange for political favors. Yes, friends, you’ve elected a governor that’s ethically challenged, I say challenged with a capital C and that rhymes with G and that stands for Guv.

But wait, there’s more. Amid his budget slashing and taking money from schoolchildren the Guv decided to move out of the mansion and left Dawn to run the house. She asked what he was doing and he replied that he wants a divorce. A divorce, friends, with a capital D and that rhymes with G and that stands for Guv.

Voters of Carson City, heed the warning before it is too late. Watch for the telltale signs of corruption. An election is coming up this fall. Does your candidate have a record of being wined and dined by lobbyists? Has he or she made promises to the constituency that cannot be kept? Then has dinner with big donors whose huge donations help to renege on those promises? And do certain words creep into the conversation? Words like, “Tax cuts,” and “Big oil profits.” If so, you’ve got trouble friends. Trouble with a capital T and that rhymes with E and that stands for Election.

So the next time an opportunity arises to vote for a candidate, don’t get fooled. Demand more disclosure. That’s disclosure with a capital D and... well, you get the idea.

A little blogging music Maestro.... Kate Smith singing “God Bless America.”

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Weekend

2008-05-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Weekends in Vegas

Good Old Days - Jacksons vs. Osmonds: Oh for a bit of history. The Jackson Five burst on the scene a few decades ago with little brother Michael who grew into one of the biggest pop stars in music history. The Osmonds had a TV show that featured Donny and Marie, then seemed to disappear. Fast forward to 2008. Michale Jackson has had his troubles and is reportedly hiding out in the Middle East, the rest of the family are, as we used to say, “doing their thing,” and the Osmonds are soon to be playing Vegas! Flamingo Las Vegas announced that Donny and Marie will present a 90 minute show on a custom designed stage. They will sing their greatest hits backed by multiple video screens and a troupe of dancers. This will be the first time in three decades that they’ve done an extended gig in Vegas. More info at dpettit@harrahs.com

Toity Poiple Boids, Sittin’ on a Coib: If you ever lived in New Joisey you’d understand that intro. If not, well you surely have enjoyed listening to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons (think She-e-e-rie Baby). The unlikely road to stardom has been captured in the wildly popular “Jersey Boys.” The group wrote its own songs that sold over 175 million copies before any of them hit age 30. The musical is now playing at Palazzo. More info at ezbylut@kirvindoak.com.

Everybody Comes to Las Vegas: Travel Industry Association’s 40th Annual Powwow comes to the Valley of the Dollars next week. More than 1,000 travel originations from every corner of the country will meet at the Convention Center. 1,500 international and domestic buyers from more than 70 countries will discuss how to direct the $ 3.5 billion travel industry they control. Their days will be spent in the Convention Center but nights will include visits to local attractions, excursions, and dining with local media. More info at www.tia.org/powwow.

Dying is easy, comedy is hard: Las Vegas is the place to play if you are an entertainer. Over the years venues for comics trying to break in have dwindled. Workshops and comedy clubs are not as plentiful as they once were. Once a comic gets some traction, is still difficult to find venues outside hotel big rooms to try routines and polish material. The Fitzgerald downtown is addressing the issue. Next week Comedy After Hours will showcase some of the country’s top comedic talent. Three cheers for Fitzgerald’s for providing such a venue. It is worth the walk to the second floor – OK, take the elevator if you must. More info at 702.388.2400.

A little blogging music Maestro.... How about Elvis one more time with “Viva Las Vegas.”

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Happenings

2008-05-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas Weekend

Las Vegas is the only town where the cabbies tell you where to go. So this weekend I’ll be the cabbie and let you know about some of the upcoming activities in the Valley of the Dollars.

Las Vegas Uncork’d: Next week Bon Appetit magazine meets Bellagio, Caesars Palace, Hard Rock Hotel, and Wynn Las Vegas hook up for a week of pure unadulterated (burp) Vegas fare. Co-chairs for the festivities include chef Wolfgang Puck and Bon Appetit Editor-in-Chief Barbara Fairchild. Highlights of the event will include A Tale of Five Chefs Gala, brunch and cocktail smack down, the Grand Tasting, and Masters vs. Pro-Am cooking competition. More info at www.bavegasuncorked.com

Burgers and other fine cuisine: LBS, and American classic burger joint will soon join the other fine restaurants at Red Rock Casino and Resort. A planned opening this fall will feature the finest, freshest ingredients and a 101 seat restaurant with more than 40 microbrews. Local restaurateur Billy Richardson will again perform his magic. We’ll be licking our chops for this one to open. More info at Michael@braintrustlv.com.

The Higher the Top the Longer the Drop: Everybody loves records as the Guinness Record Book people have discovered. Another entry will be attempted as Jean Philippe Patisserie in Bellagio has submitted measurements of their chocolate fountain as the World’s Tallest Chocolate Fountain. The floor-to-ceiling fountain is 27 feet tall and circulates two tons of chocolate at 120 quarts per minute. The fountain is real and outdoes the fictional Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. More info at mmckiski@mgmmirage.com

Hand Over Your Chocolate and Nobody Will Get Hurt: A good way to wile away your time while thinking of chocolate is to watch the Payard Chocolate Clock at Caesars Palace. The 13-foot high timepiece displays nine different time zones and dispenses free truffles. The clock mechanisms create the six-step process in making chocolates and truffles. More info at terlitzkyr@caesarspalace.com

Las Vegas; The Meadows: Las Vegas was named for a desert oasis. Today that oasis appropriately on the grounds of the Las Vegas Valley Water District called the Springs Preserve, a 180 acre cultural and historical attraction. The ambiance of the Springs Preserve is something that might just as easily be found in Idaho or Iowa or Kansas. Every Thursday night in the Springs Cafe on the property, concerts are available sponsored by restaurateur Wolfgang Puck and a special Farmers Market will show local produce, fruits and vegetables as well as arts and crafts. More info at rwolfson@kirvindoak.com

Quit Draggin’ your Dragon: Mandalay Bay includes a Shark Reef Aquarium but do not worry about getting eaten. It is a great display that will soon include a rare Komodo Dragon on display. The huge lizard, which can grow to 200 lbs. will be among the 2,000 other animals in the Reef and could be the meanest as it has no known predators. The Shark Reef is the only aquarium of its kind in North America. More info at zanellas@mgmmirage.com

A little blogging music Maestro... I can hear the strains of Elvis singing “Viva Las Vegas.”
Dr. Forgot

Lost Wages in Las Vegas

2008-04-17T15:06:00.001-07:00

Las Vegas Variety

A Day at the DMV: Today we are going to talk about life and visiting in Las Vegas. Today I had to go to the dreaded DMV to register a car. Normally I’m savvy enough to register online and avoid the crush. Nevada provides a pretty hip set of options of not only renewing your car’s registration but renewing your driver’s license. But today I had to go to the DMV. It is on my least liked things to do list, right below getting a shot and having a root canal. The lines are horrible, the customers are frustrated and often short tempered and often slobs. The employees are nearly always on the defensive after being shouted at, threatened, and even spat upon. So with trepidation I entered the DMV, dodging the petition signature requesters. The information line took about 15 minutes to negotiate and I was out in 30 minutes flat. A speed record.

A Fluke or a Sign: I could not help but notice the emptiness of the DMV. Could it have been because it was Thursday around noon? Could it have been because it was the middle of the month? A fluke perhaps? Or could the reason have to do with the economy? MGM Grand just laid off a gaggle of people, restaurants seem to be not as full, those who work for tips complain that that tips are getting smaller. The days of 5,000 – 6,000 new residents per month moving to the Valley of the Dollars may well be behind this fair city.

Shuffle Into a Deal: The slowdown may also have benefits. Every zig has its zag and every ping has its pong. I remember after 9/11 the economy slowed to a crawl and hotels offered fantastic deals. Mrs. Dr. Forgot and I stayed at the Ritz Carlton for a week including meals, free valet parking and an upgraded room for about $ 500.00. Things aren’t that bad but The Wall Street Journal reports that deals are abundant along the Strip. Gamblers are becoming more frugal, conventioneers are cutting their stays short, and leisure travelers are staying home. The result is room rates cut up to 25%. Now is the time.

You’ll Never Take Me Alive Copper: As the economy tightens people become more creative in ways to survive. Copper theft from homes under construction or abandoned foreclosures or even public sources such as light poles and school air conditioners have become rampant. The thefts have cost the city millions in repair plus the danger posed when streetlamps are out. During a recent theft of 30,000 feet of copper the thief stole a city truck to transport it. Mayor Oscar went to court as a victim advocate The crook got 18 months and a big fine. The Mayor also suggested that taggers who deface public property have their thumbs cut off. You’ve gotta’ love Mayor Oscar.

A little blogging music Maestro... One more time.... Elvis doing, “Viva Las Vegas!”

Dr. Forgot

Mmmm-mmmmm Good

2008-04-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

A bicycle can’t stand alone because its two tired.

I missed you: Seems like a very long time since we’ve electronically interacted. Lots of national and international things are happening. The Olympic torch run is being protested. For some reason people seem to be pretty upset with China. You’d think they’re water-boarding their prisoners or locking them up without charging them or wiretapping their phones. We heard from a most reliable source that one unnamed country will skip the Olympics this year. Seems that everybody in that unnamed country who could run, jump, or swim is already in the U.S.

Psssst, buddy, could you buy a fella a drink: The water bubbles and flows outside the Bellagio but inside fine wine flows. And in order to have fine wine, you need one of those folks who know how to make the presentation and be able to tell the screw tops from the corked bottles. Bellagio has just added a fourth Master Sommelier to their uh, stable of cork poppers. In a city where we are used to seeing records set, Bellagio has done it again. No other property in the world has four Master Sommeliers on property. Congrats.

Fine wine (belch) good food: For two decades one of the highlight events for those “in the business” has been The Annual Epicurean Affair. That’s the gathering in which attendees get to sample the best food and drink to be had at more than 100 bars and restaurants around town. This year it will be held poolside at the Flamingo May 1. For more info visit www.nvrestaurants.com

I’m on a seafood diet. I see food and I eat it: If you are a longtime local you’ll remember some of the seafood buffets around town. Word about them would go through the community faster than a needle scare at a local clinic. Usually held on Fridays and Sundays, lines would always form for the good stuff. The Rio has decided to bring it back with the Village Seafood Buffet. Prawns, salmon, crab, lobster and the like are flown in from around the world – more than 200 tons of it each week. Oh yes, they pair drinks to the dinner. For more info ask Celine at chaas@harrahs.com

Prefer your food fast?: Just in case you’d like to not eat healthy at any of the above venues, or if you need to grab something on the run, how about a few facts on the calorie count of some fast foods. According to Fast Food News the Pizza Hut’s new Double Deep Meat Lover’s Pizza offers you 580 calories, 330 from fat, PER SLICE! Jack in the Box sells their new Sirloin Steak Melt with 640 calories, 360 from fat. Carl’s Jr’s Huevos Rancheros Breakfast Burrito weighs in at 660 calories and 34 grams of fat. But Quizno’s wins the prize with their Tuna Melt. The large has over 2,000 calories and 175 grams of fat, the regular has 1420 calories and 118 grams of fat, and the small has 770 calories and 60 grams of fat. Bon apetite.

A little blogging music Maestro… “Pour Some Sugar on Me” by Def Leppard.

Dr. Forgot

Viva Las Vegas

2008-03-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Politicians have amnesia for as long as they can remember.

Hillary ducks questions, not bullets: Ok, perhaps those paragons of media outlets CNN and FOX News have not shown the clip of Hillary taking flowers from the little Bosnian girl as often as they have shown the Wrong Reverend Wright, but it is now clear that the former First Lady’s recollection of the events surrounding her visit were, uh, not consistent with film of the event. The term, “I misspoke,” now has another definition – “Dang, you caught me.”

Las Vegas Whoopee: Remember Monte Carlo? No, not the one with Grace Kelly that was the setting of romantic movies in the 1950s but the one whose motto in January became, “You burn me up.” The façade burned. The only thing that was hurt was the pride of the workers who accidently started the fire. Turns out those workers were welders who neglected to get the proper permits for their job. The result was 6,000 guests displaced and $ 100,000,000 in damage and lost revenue to the hotel. But the fire chief took a line from the NBA and said, “No harm no foul.” Translated that means no charges will be filed against the miscreants. That makes it the world’s most expensive weenie roast.

Are local high school students “Dumb, da, da dumb?” It is often said of some of the more promiscuous dropouts, “They can’t add or subtract, but Lord, can they multiply!” Recent tests taken by nearly all local high school students seem to support the adage. 91% of Algebra I students, 87% of Algebra II students, and 88% of Geometry students who took the January exams flunked them. I guess they don’t know if pi r squared or pies are round.

Why Math is important: In a town that likes to keep the acne off its face, it is interesting to see local publicists embrace the new film “21.” The movie is based on the true story of an MIT math wizard who decided that if numbers are predictable, he should be able to win at the casino tables. And did they ever… well, I don’t want to spoil it for you. Perhaps the movie should be shown to those struggling students so demonstrate how good math skills can be helpful.

Could that thump you hear be the Real Estate bottom: Real estate markets across the country have been taking a beating. The news media loves to cite Las Vegas to be one of the worst hit. But to quote that famous Vegas philosopher, Francis Albert Sinatra of song, “The higher the top, the longer the drop.” Real estate prices went meteoric for a few years just like tech stocks had a decade earlier. As we pointed out I a previous post, had you bought a house for $ 200,000 in 2000, it would have appreciated to well over $ 400,000 before the market slide. That same house is now priced at well over $ 300,000. See the big picture?

A little blogging music Maestro… Johnny Cash, “Home of the Blues.”

Dr. Forgot

Monday, Monday

2008-03-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

A Leading Authority Has Guessed Right Once

Bang, Bang... Whoops: From the “Post- 9/11 Genius Ideas” department comes the one from Usless Air – er, U.S. Airways. Seems that the panic driven rule that allows pilots to carry guns onboard planes, uh, backfired when a gun went off in the cockpit of a plane. The U.S. Airways flight was bound from Denver to Charlotte and had 124 passengers on board. Nobody was injured except for the pride of the pistol packing pilot. Officials say it was a full flight but full of what? We’ve not yet heard from the NRA but I’m sure the response will be something like, “Pilots don’t blow out windows in airplanes, guns do.”

Tums and Rolaids won’t fix this gas problem: Pain at the pump can be felt throughout the U.S. A few weeks ago I was in the San Diego suburb of La Jolla and the Union 76 station on the main drag posted full service premium gas at $ 4.99 per gallon. Was that a gouge or harbinger of things to come? Average gas prices this weekend topped $ 3.40 per gallon in some states. Tipsters tell us how to ease the pain: stay away from stations in ritzy hoods, avoid stations that are also repair shops or car washes, buy Wednesday morning and use wholesale club gas pumps. Oh, and how about driving less?

Sounds like, “I am not a crook”: Kwame Kilpatrick, that lover-boy mayor of Motown insists he will be exonerated. He and an aide were charged with perjury and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors say that sexually explicit text messages between the two may have been sugar sweet but lying about them in sworn testimony was perjury. Poor Kwame. All around him are people who spew hate and they do not get into trouble. But try a little loving and BAM! Your career is in jeopardy. Perhaps he can get an attorney referral or seek advice about how to handle the situation from Eliot Spitzer.

Sad day in Paradise: Few things are sadder than the loss of a loved one. Over the weekend the Paradise Animal Hospital in Las Vegas burned. The fire was so intense that rescuers were unable to save a single pet during the midnight inferno. One can only imagine the grief of pet owners whose pets were recovering from illnesses or being boarded during the holiday weekend. Everything was destroyed but if the owners are able to reconstruct their client list they should send each owner a letter of sympathy and include perhaps a gift certificate from the animal shelter and a gift card for future services.

Rrrrr-eeee-bbbb-eelllsss: The chant of the UNLV athletic teams was born during the Harvey Hyde football days. It has since been adopted by nearly every other UNLV sport and was heart during the March Madness tournament. Hats off to a ragtag group that the national media continually referred to as “Two walk-ons and a former air conditioner repairman.” Hats off to Coach Lon Kruger as well for bringing out the teams character rather than having to clean up after a bunch of characters.

A little blogging music Maestro… From the Rebel fight song, “U-N-L-V, UNLV Go Fight Win.”

Dr. Forgot

The Law Won

2008-03-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

Every Snowflake in an Avalanche Pleads Not Guilty

Who, Me? Uh, uh. Well, Maybe. Ok, I did it: We’ve all heard the old saw that nobody in prison is innocent. Sometimes it proves to be true. DNA analysis and student lawyers often research old cases to determine if “the lady doth protest too much” or if the criminal is guilty. We hear about the few that are overturned but rarely about the guilty.

Is justice delayed really justice denied?: We often hear of somebody who committed a crime but somehow escaped the long arm of the law for years or even decades then is captured. Sara Jane Olsen became caught up in the SLA – a radical group from the 1970s. But she apparently discovered the error of her ways, changed her name, and lived a model life for 24 years before being caught and sentenced. A man from Las Vegas was convicted for a crime and walked away and lived life on the lam as an ideal husband and father for decades before being found out. If the purpose of prison is to rehabilitate and somebody is becomes a model citizen outside the prison gates, who wins?

Peek-a-boo, I see you: An old joke tells about professional skier Picabo (pronounced “Peek-a-boo”) Street donating a hospital wing that was named in her honor – Peek-a-boo ICU. But real peekers have sneaked into the personal files of presidential candidates. Passportgate broke this morning when it was revealed that several workers had spied into passport files of Barack Obama as many as three times. Another, proving he was a fair if unbalanced peeping Tom also scanned the files of Senator McCain. Hillary Clinton’s files were compromised. It reminds me of the Richard Nixon line when he said he knew he would be under a microscope while serving but did not expect to be examined by a proctoscope.

Smoke ‘em or smash ‘em: Las Vegas is said to have some of the most bizarre drivers anywhere. One reason might be due to the fact that everybody drives by the rules back home. But today the pipe dream of a trucker became a pipe nightmare for commuters. Seems that a semi hauling pipes was minding its own business in I-15 when some hibilly ran into it causing the truck to depipe. Result? 14 vehicles involved in six crashes. That’s some piping!

Quick! Think of Las Vegas: What is first thing that comes to mind? Lights. All those lights. One can read a newspaper at midnight. But somebody blew a fuse, or more accurately a transformer, that thrust four major hotels into electric limbo. Elevators stopped, lights went out, and most importantly, slot machines stopped spinning. Well, maybe not the slots. But at 8:00 p.m. or so until 9:30 we were reminded that we really are a desert community dependent on electricity.

A little blogging music Maestro: Anything by the Electric Light Orchestra.

Dr. Forgot

A Serious Matter

2008-03-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

Another Award Winning Speech

Barack talks for 37 minutes: Normally I don’t take sides in this blog. I’m an equal opportunity jokester. I make fun of the president’s gaffes, of Hillary’s crying, McCain’s age, Obama’s turban photo (who does he think he is - a NY taxi driver?), and the rest of the plethora of candidates that began this race. But after listening to one of the most moving, eloquent, relevant speeches I’ve heard in decades, I am stunned to see pundits from the other side belittle and demean the words that are needed to heal a most divided country.

Rush and other nut cases: When Rush first came on the scene I got a huge chuckle out of his shtick. But then a funnier thing happened. People started to take that satire seriously and Rush’s ample head and body began to relish the attention to the point that I think he might actually believe his fawning ditto-heads. It is no sin to believe strongly in your side whether that side is your church, your country, or your political party. But to extend your belief to extreme in either direction, left or right, is to blind yourself to reason, fairness and objectivity.

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, open your heart: Despite the fact that Barack Obama’s speech could have been given by few, if any other orators simply because of much of it was based on his experiences, had members of the opposition not known who was giving the speech and listened simply to the content, no rational person could have disagreed with most of what was said. Our country is divided. We are at a precipice in time, while publicly unspoken racial, class, religious, and other hatred eats like a cancer at the very fabric of our great nation, threatening to cast it further into the depths of despair. To attack simply for the sake of attack, simply because the speaker looks or speaks, or worships differently than we do is contrary to what our founding fathers and our soldiers in every war since fought for. Yet it has become chic to use the airwaves as bully pulpits of hot air, demagoguery, and to spread seeds of hatred.

Fair and balanced is neither: Media outlets have catchy phrases to tout their supposed positions – Fair and Balanced, Best political team on television, and other arrogant boasts which rather than being based in fact are so much puffery. In a two day period while admittedly watching only part of the time, I counted 35 showings of the hateful language by a pastor that the reporters attached to one candidate, yet I heard nary a word about the hate spewed by pastors on the other end of the political continuum who marginalize minorities and other groups with hate-filled rhetoric. So much for fair and balanced.

What this country desperately needs is a huge dose of kindness and understanding by its leaders and men and women of God. But even more so we as proud Americans need to show the world what makes us proud, what has made us the envy of the rest of the world, and what has made this country grow and prosper. Lose the hate, friends. Pay homage to the melting pot we once were and the tossed salad we have become. God bless America.

Dr. Forgot

Money and Politics

2008-03-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

If your feet smell and your nose runs, you’re upside down

Running for office: Obama gave one heck of a speech. No known connection but as the O man was talking the DOW was climbing. Both were pleasant surprises. Hillary decided to release her schedule while First Lady. If she wins the election, will be First Laddie? Meanwhile, back at the oasis, Senator McCain spoke to his camel, his troops, and anybody else who would listen. Three candidates, two parties. This reminds me of some of the fuzzy math that was spoken of during past elections.

Nosing around: Meanwhile, Dick Cheney, the “Where’s Waldo” of politics was spotted in Israel. No, it was Oman. Whoops, I mean the West Bank, Wrong, it was Saudi Arabia. Uh, uh, he flew into Turkey. That man moves faster and is seen less than a guilty husband during the holidays.

From the Sunshine State to the Rust Belt: Who is the bad guy here? Let me see if I have this straight. The states of Michigan and Florida, both members of the “Me first” club, wanted to upstage other states by having their primaries early. The Democratic National Committee said that if they do it would not count, but they did anyway. All eight candidates (back in the days before the dropouts dropped out) signed an agreement to ignore the to baddies who had violated the rules. Now the baddies are crying “Foul!” Sir Walter Scott got it right: “Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.”

Some good news and some bad news: ICE and Homeland security have teamed up to sweep many of those who entered this country illegally back from whence they came. More than 380,000 illegal entrants have been deported in fiscal 2007 compared to 186,000 a year earlier. That is a good thing, right? Maybe yes, maybe no. Reports from around the country show that many menial jobs typically held by illegals are going unfilled. Labor intensive job are among those where shortages exist.

Snip snip. How much will it help?: At this writing the feds just announced an interest rate cut of 0.075%. Within minutes the DOW dropped over 100 points. Not sure where it will end but the free fall continues. We will keep you posted.

A little blogging music Maestro... “Every Little Bit Hurts” by Alicia Keys.

Dr. Forgot

Sunday Senior Sillies

2008-03-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

Old Age is Nothing to Worry About Unless You’re Cheese

Today, just for a change of pace we will pay tribute to seniors. May we all live to become same. For most of the stories I thank my good friend Dr. Jerry. I’ve added a few from my own archives.

Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked,
“How old was your husband?”
“98, she replied."
“Two years older than me”
“So you're 96,” the undertaker commented. She responded, ''Hardly worth going home, is it?"

Reporters interviewing a 104-year-old woman: “And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?” the reporter asked.
She simply replied, “No peer pressure.”

An elderly couple walked into a pharmacy. They asked, “Do you sell canes?” The pharmacist nodded in the affirmative. Walkers? Again in the affirmative. Dentures? Yes, Depends. Uh, huh. And on and on went the interrogation listing every conceivable product used by seniors. Finally the pharmacist asked why all the questions. They both smiled coyly and the gentleman said, “We’re planning to get married and are looking for a place to register."

I've sure gotten old! I've had two bypass surgeries, a hip replacement, new knees, fought prostate cancer and diabetes. I'm half blind, can't hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation; hardly feel my hands and feet anymore. Can't remember if I'm 85 or 92. Have lost all my friends. But, thank God, I still have my driver's license.

I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor's permission to join a fitness club and start exercising. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.

An elderly woman decided to prepare her will and told her preacher she had two final requests. First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Wal-Mart.
“Wal-Mart?'' the preacher exclaimed. ''Why Wal-Mart?”
“Then I'll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week.”

My memory is not as sharp as it used to be. My memory is not as sharp as it used to be.

It's scary when you start making the same noises as your coffee maker.

These days about half the stuff in my shopping cart says, “For fast relief.”

Always Remember This: You don't stop laughing because you grow old, grow old because you stop laughing.

Finally, sorry if I missed any but my memory is not as sharp as it used to be. My memory is not as sharp as it used to be.

A little blogging music Maestro... Vern Pullens, “Old Folks Home.”

Dr. Forgot

Artificial Intelligence vs. Natural Stupidity

2008-03-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

A Weekend Wasted isn’t a Wasted Weekend

Wrath of Basketball Gods: March Madness is a phrase that probably very few jocks or basketball fans know is borrowed from the Bard. That’s Shakespeare’s Hamlet for those of you who were absent that day. Not to be confused with his Julius Caesar who was told to “Beware of the Ides of March.” That refers to March 15, 44 B.C. the date Caesar was murdered. So today is the 2,052nd anniversary of his death. But for fans today is the last day for amateur bracketologists to try to figure out which teams will go to the NCAA Big Dance (college basketball playoffs) and which will stay home. Perhaps the basketball gods were making their preferences known when they huffed and puffed and almost blew down the Atlanta arena that was hosting playoffs.

With friends like this: Now that Albany Whoregate seems to have fizzled out media pundits are searching for new muck to rake. There is probably no truth to the rumor that former VP candidate Geraldine Ferraro who dissed and denied will be the new host of the Imus show. She’s old news too. But Fox News might have caught one that will last more than 72 hours. The Barackster’s minister has made controversial statements. If that is a criterion for being lambasted I’m hoping the media never finds out who my friends are.

Space jockeys work well with Son of HAL: Remember HAL in 2001 Space Odyssey? He was the computer in the space ship who was the lone astronaut’s best friend until they had sort of a lover’s spat. Then HAL proved he had a mind of his own, which led to the end of the mission. Today the space station’s new robot, Dextre, is powered up and operating smoothly. Dextre has its own bed, called a pallet, and now has power. To date everything is working well and no Klingons have been spotted.

Space station – Vegas connection: Speaking of space stations one must include Star Wars in the mix. Star Wars producer George Lucas flew into the Valley of the Dollars for the annual theater owners convention, Showest. He teased the group with clips from the latest Star Wars movie, The Clone Wars, premiering the ides of August. It will be a TV series as well so future astronauts can learn the finer points of surviving when clones go wild. The movie will refresh Obie-wan in the theaters during the time Obie-two is making a run for the presidential nomination. Who says life doesn’t imitate art?

A little blogging music Maestro... a bit of Strauss, “Also Sprach Zarathustra,” also known as the theme from “2001: A Space Odyssey.”

Dr. Forgot

Friday's Follies

2008-03-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas Silliness

More churches than casinos: Everybody has heard the old saw that there are more churches than casinos in the Valley of the Dollars. If true, it might be that so many people are either praying for a winner or praying for forgiveness. But there is one church just off the Strip that lets people know that all donations are welcome, even gambling chips. The church receives such a large percentage of chips that it sends the offerings to a nearby monastery to have the money separated from the chips. The chips are then separated by denomination and casino and turned in for cash. And who does all this work at the monastery? A particular sect of holy men – the Chipmonks!

Blonds in Vegas: A blond was seen at a soda machine. She already had about a dozen sodas but continued to put dollar after dollar in the machine. When a security guard asked what she was doing she replied, “Duh… winning!” Then there was the blond who called her parents after being in Las Vegas for two weeks to proudly announce that she had finally learned how to spell “MGM backwards.

Las Vegas mob boss: As the story goes a mob boss hired a deaf accountant. That way if the mobster was ever arrested and the accountant was hauled before the grand jury, he would be unable to tell about the skimming and other nasty tales. However the accountant embezzled a million dollars from the mob boss before the boss discovered it. The boss brought in somebody from the sign language institute and sat the deaf accountant down, placed a gun to his head and said to the translator, “Tell him to tell me where he hid the money or I’ll blow his #%^&$ing brains out.”

The translator signed the message and the frightened accountant signed back that the money was under a tree next to a rock in the desert. The translator looked at the mob boss and said, “He says you’ll never find it and you don’t have the balls to pull the trigger.”

World’s smartest Vegas dog: A gambler from Iowa comes to Vegas every six months and only plays blackjack. One day he goes to his usual poker table and is shocked to see a dog sitting in his usual chair. The gambler watches a few hands as the dog scratching his paw for a hit and tapping the table to stand. After a few hands the gambler says, “That is the smartest dog I’ve ever seen!” The dealer yawns and says, “He’s not that smart. Every time he gets a good hand his tail wags.

A little blogging music Maestro... What else but Elvis doing, “Viva Las Vegas.”

Dr. Forgot

Fun With Spitz and Kris

2008-03-13T07:32:00.000-07:00

Stupidity Left Untreated, is Self Correcting

What was the Guv thinking?: It might be three months past Christmas but the words “Ho-ho-ho must be ringing in his ears. Client #9. Too bad he didn’t get caught in traffic. Then he would have been “Client #8 and perhaps missed all this. A comment on yesterday’s post pondered, “Where was the official Guv Security Detail while all this was, uhm, “going down?” This puts a whole new meaning to red lights on the Secret Service cars. Let’s see, did 2-timing Client 9 go Code 3 down I-87 to arrive at Room 813 on 2/13 by 10 p.m.? Was Kristen 2 good 2 be 4 gotten? Will he be the ex-Guv by 3/17? 10-4.

Flee to escape political persecution: This pilgrim boarded the Mayflower in hopes of escaping political persecution but will likely be facing legal prosecution. There might not have been anybody to deflower at the Mayflower, but when the voyage was complete the charge for the Mayflower compact was $ 4,300. That is more than a week’s salary for the Guv but an hour or so work for an unelected official. But the Guv overpaid by $ 500 according to reports. Was the extra five “C’s” a tip, a down payment for a future voyage, or did the trollup ask if he could loan her five hundred until she got back on her back? Such mysteries we may never know.

Las Vegas gossip: For the young hip crowd who know the difference between MTV and the MGM, we’ve discovered that “The Hills” star Audrina Partridge will head from the hills to the Valley of the Dollars to dance onstage as one of the Pussycat Dolls. Doesn’t ring a bell? Think Paris Hilton, Carmen Electra, and Gwen Stefani, other stars who’ve bumped and ground their way onto the PURE stage at the Luxor. No dead mummies in that pyramid, only scantily clad hardbodies and maybe an IRS agent or two.

If you got the money, honey, Vegas has the time: Ok boys and girls, today’s lesson will be on gambling. Why do we go to Las Vegas? Right, to gamble. To Atlantic City? Right again, to gamble. And is there a chance you might lose your money when you test the fates with the gods of dice, cards, and sports books? Yes. That is why it is called… GAMBLING! Ok, one bonus question: what do lawyers do? That’s right. They SUE.

Since you got 100% class, we’ll tell you about Arelia Travis, an accomplished attorney who earned well into six figures annually. She gambled in Las Vegas and Atlantic City and, wonder of wonders, she lost! Whose fault would that be? Right! The casinos. The disbarred lawyer is now suing seven casinos for $ 20 mil because they ENABLED her. Hello! Counselor! That is what casinos do. They are not there for the 49 cent shrimp cocktail. Here’s a tip, counselor: you’ve got to know when to hold, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk away and know when to run…”

A little blogging music Maestro... What else but Kenny Rogers, “The Gambler.”

Dr. Forgot

Running From Office

2008-03-12T10:45:00.001-07:00

A Fool and His Money Are Parted at the Mayflower

The Guv who was: Client 9. How long until that becomes the trade name of an expensive perfume, or a line of Victoria’s Secret negligee, or even a code work in the escort business for a high roller? After watching the wife of the N.Y. Guv at the press conference today, I’m sure she deserves plenty of retail therapy. Perhaps he can get the Kobe Bryant playbook. Perhaps the Guv can buy the bauble from Kobe’s wife. Somehow, watching him say he is sorry just doesn’t seem like enough punishment. Poor wifey looked like she was hungover – the wrath of grapes.

More Political Brickbats: Ok, let’s see if we are able to make heads or tails of this political game. One of Barrack’s minions called Hillary a monster and resigned under pressure as a result. One of Hillary’s minions struck back with a nya-na-na-na-na stating that the only reason Barrack is running is because he is black. Huh? If that were the case President Jesse Jackson would have had his Rainbow Coalition Cabined in place several elections ago. BTW, the statement maker was none other than the first female VP candidate. Oh yes, Hillary’s reaction was a severe mild slap on the wrist. Can’t we all just get along?

Another Politician in Trouble: These are difficult times for politicians. Yet another scandal has rocked the foundation of the political system in New Haven, Connecticut. That bucolic community that boasts Yalies and other Elis has seen one of its icons tumble from grace. Michael Sheridan was discovered to have committed a crime and was stripped of his political office. He was barred from attending activities surrounding his office and was banished from the city-owned property where he had served. Michael, formerly class vice president, had committed the grievous error of purchasing a bag of Skittles from a classmate. A school official stated that candy sales had been banned in the school district since 2003. Is there no end to the transgressions of rogue politicians?

Leaving Las Vegas: Visitor volume has declined in Las Vegas over the past year a whopping 0.6%. That is less than one percent. Such a downward trend must be stopped and reversed! Fortunately the brain trust of those who take care of such nagging problems plan to spend $ 12 million to tease the gamblers back to the Valley of the Dollars. If you snooze, you lose.

The Gift that Keeps on Giving: Clinics, doctors and nurses continue to come under scrutiny as officials investigate unsafe practices. Hepatitis and other diseases could have been transferred. Those implicated and shown to have been a party to the fiasco need to update their resumes: References – “None. I’ve left a path of destruction behind me.”

A little blogging music Maestro... “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?” by Boy George.

Dr. Forgot

Running From Office

2008-03-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

Love American Style

2008-03-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

Sin Is Attractive Because Wages Are Paid Immediately

The Guv’s hooker was a looker: Good ole Client 9. Did he use Love Potion #9? He asked what his gal looked like and was told she was pretty. For $ 4,300 she’d better be. To resign or not to… that seems to be the question. Hillary prays he does not (he’s a Super-delegate pledged to her). Obama hopes he does (the replacement will pledge to the Barrackster). Rumors have it the First Lady of Noo Jork has wrapped yellow crime scene tape around his waist. I guess that would be considered Capitol punishment

Who’s Number one?: The CDC (Center for Disease Control) released a study that cited statistics on STDs, (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) which showed that one in four teen-aged girls are infected. This is a sad fact. The U.S. is number one in many areas but does not care to have this statistic amongst the bragging rights.

The Professor and Maryann: Here on Gilligan’s Isle. The popular comedy series from about 1,000 years ago starred Bob Denver as Gilligan and among others, Dawn Wells as Maryann, the pure, sweet girl-next-door character who was cast opposite sexpot Tina Louise. We always wondered how the Professor was able to invent all manner of life sustaining contraptions but could not figure out how to patch their boat and get them off the island. We should have wondered what they smoked in their spare time. Bob Denver was busted for smoking grass numerous times and sweet little Maryann was recently busted in Idaho for smoking while driving. She copped a plea.

Remember Voodoo politics: Ah that burning question on the lips of every candidate and Florida and Michigan delegate, “Who do the Voodoo that you do so well?” All the doo doo about the do-over would put Rover in the clover. But the manure spread by both candidates over whether or not to redo the primary or caucus in the states begs this question: “Didn’t ALL candidates sign an agreement to ignore the two states that broke the rules?”

Who shot the ice cream lady and why: Remember a couple of weeks ago when a Henderson ice cream couple got in trouble with the cops? Hubby was pulled over for speeding and the cops called his wife. I’ve been pulled over for speeding a few times and nobody ever called my wife. But it wasn’t in Henderson. Maybe that’s the difference. Anyhow, wifey arrived and argued with the cops and was shot. Cops claim she was threatening them. Hubby said she was on the ground when it happened. An independent autopsy showed she was on the ground. Whoops. I smell a lawsuit if the lawyers have time between Endoscopy centers.

Here’s a tip - No outrageous behavior: The extortion that went on at LAX and perhaps other night clubs, as documented in the Las Vegas Sun tells a lot about the young generation. Back in the 1800s when I was a young bachelor in Las Vegas the closest thing to clubs were lounges and the drinks were free.

A little blogging music Maestro... “Memories.”

Dr. Forgot

Whores and Politicans

2008-03-10T14:52:00.001-07:00

Politics: Poly (Many) + Ticks (Bloodsucking parasites)

May your Mayor check his Willie: The Big Apple’s serpent slithered into D.C. According to news wires, the law and order Guv of New York left Time Square to walk the plank on board the Mayflower – Hotel that is. The Loot Guv, as blind justice works, will now become the Guv. Seems that while he crusaded against bad guys doing nasty stuff by day he was a hooker booker after the sun went down. Like the song in Les Miz: “She plays a virgin in the light but needs no urgin’ in the night.”

Who’s Number one?: You’ve got to give the Clinton campaign credit. They’ve learned a lot by getting attacked in office for four years. Slick Willy helped trick with Hilly as she offered Obie-one the chance to be Obie-two. Here’s the logic: “You flunk the P{resident test so let’s put you a heartbeat away from the presidency.” Huh? Obama paused for a comma, then pointed out the ludicrousness of the suggestion. Perhaps the Clintons did not learn well enough from the marauding Rovers - the attempt to flip flopped.

The Mac flies above the flack: Several months ago everybody in the Repub party including many of his campaign workers and that crew whose politics are three miles to the right of Attila the Hun were taking part in the McCain mutiny. He was carrying his own bags, made a seat on Southwest Airlines his company plane, and pundits said the wheels had come off the Straight Talk Express. But just look at him now! Basking in the glow as a presidential nominee, he smiles and waves and holds the hand of his pretty Rodeo Queen wife. What a life!

Shaking the family tree can cause embarrassments: Ever since Alex Hailey’s book Roots hit the best seller list nearly 40 years ago genealogy came out of the Mormon closet and into the limelight. Somebody did a family background check and discovered that Obama and Vice President Lon – uh, I mean Dick Cheney were cousins. Barack admitted that the revelation caused embarrassment in his household – related to a Republican?

Speaking of the Vee Pee: Speaking of the Dickester, he leaves aboard Air Force Too in a week or so to visit Oman, Saudi Arabia, and other oil producing countries. It is said he is headed there to visit his other relatives – the Halliburtons. We’re not sure if this trip qualifies as visiting a prostitute.

Is Oregon clinic going nuts?: Our final bit of today’s blog comes from the Pacific Northwest where people quack up and Ducks play sports. The Oregon Urology Institute wants to add a little sadness to March Madness. The institute’s director suggested a vasectomy for men who want to watch the entire weekend of basketball. It will give them an excuse to sit on the couch four days to recover.

A little blogging music Maestro... Is there a musical version of “The Agony and the Ecstasy?”

Dr. Forgot

More Guatemala

2008-03-07T14:17:00.000-08:00

Chichicastenango

No politics today: Today I again refuse to satirize the Democratic nomination process. They are doing quite a good job themselves. Instead I will talk about some excitement during a recent visit to Guatemala. It is a beautiful country on the south border of Mexico. Like the U.S. if is bounded east and west by the Atlantic and Pacific oceans respectively. The weather is not unlike Hawaii – eternal springtime.

First visit can get one hooked: My first visit to Guatemala was in early 2007. I spent most of my time visiting three universities and a college of dentistry that are all in close proximity of one another in the capital, Guatemala City. University Francisco Marroquin was named for a holy man and is the one that caters to the wealthiest students. Their curriculum: law, economics, medicine, assures that they produce many of the country’s movers and shakers. Universidad de Valle is also beautiful but most of its students do not come from the privileged background of its neighbor. Universidad Galileo is my favorite. They are the “University of the 21st Century,” as they were founded in the year 2000 by a brilliant scientist, politico and educator, Dr. Eduardo Suger.

Former capital Antigua: For many years Antigua was the capital but an earthquake changed all that and the capital was moved to the current location. Still, Antigua is a must-visit, especially if you get lonesome for ex-patriot Americans or if you wish to immerse yourself in one of the many Spanish language households.

Highways, byways, and buses: This time we were taken to a village several hours away in the mountains. The highways are improving under the plan of newly-elected President Colom, but driver education is something to be imagined. Our driver was named Louis. He had worked several years in the U.S. but returned home to care for his ailing father. Louis carried a handkerchief that he used to wipe his right eye while driving to Chichicastenango.

The narrow mountain roads had no apparent speed limits as we passed several police cars while doing 60+. Center lines mean little as we were passed around blind curves by buses doing 80+. I learned that every little boy in poverty imagines being a bus driver. The buses are personalized like some of the 18-wheelers in the U.S., with girlfriend’s names and home villages painted or etched in gorgeous artwork.

Locals and Yokels: Locals ride the buses along with their goods to sell at market, including pigs, chickens, bricks, tile, clothing, and any manner of items. The goods are stowed atop the bus and a “conductor” rides the top like a bucking bronco rider as the bus swings back and forth around suicide curves. At each stop the conductor amazingly knows whose baggage belongs to whom, for as the peasants exit the bus their stuff is tossed down to them even as the bus clamors to get back on the road. Time is money, you know.
After several close calls with other vehicles and mountain roads with no guardrails, we arrived in Chichicastanango. I asked our guide about his eye and he replied, “I recently lost this eye and have very bad cataracts in the other one.”

Thinking quickly I said, “I’ve always wanted to drive in Guatemala. Do you think I could drive back?” He agreed and I drove the return trip. The ride home was not nearly as eventful or as quick, but we arrived.

A little blogging music Maestro... Duane Eddy’s “Forty Miles of Bad Road” comes to mind.

Dr. Forgot

What a Day

2008-03-06T10:08:00.000-08:00

Day From Hell

Ever have one of those days? Mine was the day before yesterday. That’s why I have not posted for a couple of days – coping and catching up. It started innocently enough. I was doing my normal morning routine – one slice of toast with peanut butter and a banana and 4 ounces of orange juice. After that I read the local paper and do the crossword puzzle. That is my morning routine. It rarely deviates. After the crossword is done the hygiene – shower, shave, scrub the cavities, etc.

Ding dong – not Avon: The crossword was frustrating for a Tuesday. I was so deep in thought I barely heard the doorbell at 7:15. Mrs. Forgot answered and a neighbor said, “Did you know the windows are broken on your car?” That started the downhill slide. I purchased a small used Saturn for my granddaughter’s graduation and parked it in front of the house. A “Club” locks the steering wheel since every teenager in town knows how to start a Saturn with a screwdriver. The potential thief apparently broke the driver’s side window, saw the club, and took off.

Have you priced a side window lately? I swept as many glass shards as I could then got the small vacuum for the rest – and promptly broke it while trying to drag it through the car. Went to get the upright vacuum and Mrs. Forgot said, “Oh, I meant to tell you, the vacuum broke last week.” Could it get worse? Yes.

Prices vary: I began phoning and checking the internet for auto glass replacement. A dozen bids later I discovered that bids ranged from $ 140 to $ 375 for exactly the same job! Now I remember why it pays to shop around.

Driving Miss Dizzy: While driving the car I noticed a pulsating in the brakes. After the glass was replaced the car went to the shop for brakes and related work. I was quoted a price for a complete brake job but after the technician examined the patient the cost tripled. No thank you, we will take it to another brake shop.

Car troubles, vacuum troubles finally end: As the great philosopher, 10-year old Annie once said, “The Sun’ll Come Up Tomorrow,” and it did. The glass was replaced, the brakes repaired, the vacuum needed a new belt, and the small vacuum simply needed a bag change. Everybody needs a day from Hell so when the good days happen an average can be established.

A little blogging music Maestro… anything else from “Annie,” of for that matter, anything upbeat.

Dr. Forgot

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2008-03-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

WHAT A WACKY WEEK!

Why lovers never say “Goodbye” My goodness. A fellow can’t even leave his hometown for a week without the entire Valley of the Dollars going to Hell in a hand basket. We got out of town for a few days to visit the land of fruits and nuts on the left coast. Since a little 6.0 earthquake hit the state of Nevada a week earlier we wanted to see the coast before the Big One puts Las Vegas landowners in possession of beachfront property. While our back was turned things went even more nutty than usual.

Hospitals and clinics: The CEO of the only local public hospital in Las Vegas was indicted on felony theft and official misconduct charges. The CEO was charged with giving no-bid contracts to cronies in Chicago. No bid contracts??? Who does he think he is, Halliburton? The CEO’s alleged comments included one to the deputy DA that he was “…not interested in abiding by the law,” and to his boss that she “did not have the authority to fire him.” Give the man an A for Arrogance.

GIGO: Garbage in, garbage out: Seems like a local health clinic decided to cut costs by reusing syringes. Single use vials were used over and over, exposing patients to potential risks of hepatitis B, C, and the AIDS virus. Up to 40,000 patients were considered to be at risk. In this writer’s mind, the doctors who called for reuse of the vials to distribute anesthetic prior to colonoscopies should be given the procedure – without anesthesia.

Ricin Krispies for breakfast? You remember ricin. The white powder that caused such a stir around Capitol Hill when it showed up in the mailroom. Well, the same stuff showed up at a local motel whilst we were gone. Seems like some loser from Utah was doing something other than a school science project in his rented room. Nobody is sure exactly what happened or how but the guy is on his deathbed in a hospital, his cousin’s house in Utah is being combed by HAZMAT, and the perennial reporter’s questions, “Who, what, when, where, and why” are being asked.

Pussycats fly from LAX to Pure sans taxes: Pussycat Dolls Lounge in Vegas is a hangout for the young hip crowd. Ditto LAX which is neither short for laxative nor and airport lounge. Both joints are swanky and located in major Strip hotels. The management group that operates the two has a third club called Pure. It is that club that drew another three-letter acronym – IRS. No, not the name of another hip club but the guys that Governor Huckabee wants to abolish. Vegas has always operated by crossing one’s palm for a favor. The IRS wants a piece of the palm crossing.

Trouble in Paradise: Another story that broke while we lay soaking up the rays on a California beach was about the Guv himself. This is the same guy who was accused of making a pass at a gal during his election campaign. No known connection but sources close to the mansion say that the first lady might fly the gilded coop. And that was the week that was.
A little blogging music Maestro… “If You Go Away,” by Karen Carpenter.

Dr. Forgot

"It's Not My Fault," San Andreas

2008-02-28T21:23:00.000-08:00

AROUND THE HORN

La La Jolla Land: We recently spent time in La Jolla, CA, a suburb of San Diego and discovered they have news there too. Some of the happenings in the Village meet the “only in…” criteria. The latest fight in La Jolla is whether or not to place parking meters in the village (downtown) area. The local news media points out that a group of radicals from, of all places, Vail, CO have voiced their opinions that parking meters would benefit. From this outside observer’s opinion it looks like the proponents might get run out of town on a parking meter.

Beach booze ban benefits: A year or so ago La Jolla (pronounced La Hoya) banned booze from its beaches. The ban worked so well that neighboring beaches decided to go and do likewise. The drunks at those beaches are now protesting that they have nowhere to wile away their time and panhandle. Only in California. Also, city fathers (and mothers – remember, this is California) are considering installing cameras to watch for crime – I guess like drinking and stuff. Word on the street is that city workers are fighting over who gets to monitor those cameras.

More booze problems: It happened in a neighboring city. The police came upon a drunk who was passed out on the sidewalk. He had a companion also three sheets to the wind. The police recognized the drunk and loaded him into the patrol car for a few block ride home. That was that until local media got hold of the story. Seems the drunk was the mayor and the friend was a city worker. Well, at least he wasn’t drunk on the beach or he’d have really been in trouble.

One more California story: While the rest of the country is debating about insurance coverage and aliens from south of the border a clever man from San Diego is actually doing something about it. Jim Ariola grew up poor in San Diego. He excelled in sports and set a record for running the mile that still stands. After high school he attended the U.S. Military Academy. He returned home to become a businessman and entrepreneur. His latest venture is to offer health insurance to mostly poor Hispanics who can use doctors on either side of the border. Why does this sound like a good idea? Probably because this guy is no politician.

A few bits of tid: Tattoos fade. Seems that fewer Americans are marking themselves up with tattoos. Numbers are down about 3% of those who mark their bodies like only drunken sailors used to. The feds hve delayed construction of a virtual fence along the Mexican border. I guess there aren’t enough virtual illegal aliens to justify it. Pitcher Roger Clements is in trouble for fibbing to a houseful of liars. What’s wrong with that picture?

A little blogging music Maestro… how about “Stop the World, I Want to Get Off.

Dr. Forgot

All the News That's Fit to Blog

2008-02-27T21:35:00.000-08:00

FULL NEWS DAY

Sweet Sounds of Phil: The New York Philharmonic Orchestra made a landing in North Korea – the most Americans to land in Korea since the Korean War. Whew, at least the president didn’t make another pre-emptive attack on one of the “Evil Empire” countries. Instead this one was no bomb. In fact, the Koreans gave the Philos the equivalent of a standing “O.” It was cold, bleak and snowy outside the concert hall but inside it was pure love. Could fiddles in Washington while North Korea thaws.

One not so lucky Asian: While North Koreans were looking down on the orchestra in Ping-pong town, another Asian was looking down on some bad news in Texas. Houston Rockets star Yao Ming was watching his version of “My Left Foot,” and did not like what he saw. A stress fracture will require surgery or not. Either way he will likely be lost for the rest of the season. The screwed up injury will likely require screws to hold his foot together. Talk about seven feet of bad news.

Learn baby, learn: Some say Las Vegas is a cultural wasteland filled with pimps, hos, and pleasure palaces. Despite the numerous theaters, concerts, and other cultural activities the stereotype is difficult to shake. Libraries abound, although it is true that the one in Henderson will begin to close Sundays as budgets are reduced. Another bookstore has closed and the one in Mandalay Bay has announced it will close as well. But this week is reading week and dozens of local celebrities will read at local schools – a thirty-year tradition. Perhaps Senator Harry Reid will encourage the movement by changing his name to Harry Read.

Shortage of clicks flicks Google in a fix: Years ago if a floorman in a Las Vegas casino needed to order a drink for a customer he would click a Halloween clicker to summon the cocktail waitress. The mighty click has taken on new status online where every click on one of Google’s ads yields advertising money for the information gatherer. But over the past several months a dearth of clicks has caused Google’s main source of income to wither sending their stock value from a high of $747 per share to a low of $ 447. Google is trying to bounce back from the nadir.

Speaking of nadirs: That sometime politician with all the personality of a box of rocks, Ralph Nader has again announced a run for the presidency. Many thought his involvement in 2000 was the chad that broke the Democrats back. No known connection but shortly after the announcement the lights went out in Florida leaving 3 million people in the dark. The Republican National committee immediately rushed to get the votes counted for next fall’s election.

A little blogging music Maestro… how about “The Night the Lights Went Out.”

Dr. Forgot

Silly Sweets and Guns

2008-02-26T10:07:00.000-08:00

43% of All Statistics Are Made Up

Kiss kiss, bang bang: A rash of shootings has brought Las Vegas into the spotlight recently. For more than a decade local media boasted that between 5,000 and 6,000 people moved to the Valley of the Dollars each month. But nobody seemed to take notice that all the incoming Vegans were not doctors, lawyers and casino executives. Many were second chance people who had issues with theft, drugs, rock and roll, and violence. Gang members from the streets of other large metropolitan areas moved with the flow and as local population topped two million, big city problems became part of the new Las Vegas.

The gun violence is not unique to the Valley. Bucolic campuses in Virginia and Illinois have been hit with gun violence. Yet spineless politicians continue to pander to the gun lobbies while the proliferation of weapons continues. Said lobbyists are so frightened on both sides of the aisle that despite the gun violence wreaked on the American public, nary a word of solving the problem has passed the lips of any candidate. Until Americans grow a spine the violence will continue.

Hershey, Utah? Probably the best know name associated with Utah is Senator Orrin Hatch. But the state that gave us crickets, BYU, and a basketball team named the Jazz has cut a sweet deal with chocolate company Hershey. America’s largest manufacturer of chocolate and other sweets announced recently that it will accept an incentive from Utah and build a distribution center in Ogden, just north of the City of Salt. To date Ogden was best known as the home of Weber State University.

What good can possibly come of such a move? Will Reese’s Pieces become Tabernacle Tidbits? Will Hershey’s Kisses become Brigham’s Busses? Will the Great Salt Lake be renamed Sugar Central? Possibilities are endless.

Demos look like dummies: Say what you will about the Democratic presidential nomination race. It is colorful (no pun intended), offers two strong candidates running neck and neck, and well organized. Well, maybe not so well organized in the Silver State. Dems had a convention last weekend and rented a room at Bally’s that could hold up to 5,000. Problem was more than 10,000 showed up. I suppose that is better than holding a convention where nobody came, but not by much.

Perhaps the parties should share leadership. The Republican frontrunner, Sen. John McCain is a military man from Arizona. He could have given the Democrats some sound advice on organization. Instead this fiasco reeked of “Ready, fire, aim.”

Turban Warfare: Did Hillary’s campaign leak a picture of Barack wearing an African turban to the news media? If so (or if not), this is a story because? Who cares? At the risk of being accused of plagiarism of one of Senator Obama’s lines, this is the silly season in politics. Dump the minutia. On with the substantive stuff – like Hillary ditching that yellow blazer or Barack taking notes, or whether or not John made googley eyes at a female lobbyist.

A little blogging music maestro… a silly song for the silly season: “You Can’t Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd,” by Roger Miller.

Dr. Forgot

Are We Afraid Yet?

2008-02-25T12:38:00.000-08:00

Chicken Little

The sky is falling: The space junk from a spy satellite has fallen to earth after a successful shoot down by the U. S. Navy. The real estate market has also plummeted to the earth in Las Vegas, right? I mean, that is what the media has been pounding into us for the past year or so, right? Well, let’s just take a closer look.

Have you quit beating your wife? Like that trick question pundits say that the Las Vegas housing market has taken a beating. Media repeats what the pundits say like so many seals clapping their flippers and moaning, “Urp, urp.” A recent article in the local paper focused on one particular zip code in Las Vegas in which the housing prices are down by 24%. However, a chart that accompanies the article gives a better perspective. The AVERAGE depreciation for homes in the Valley of the Dollars is a tad over 4%.

Down compared to what? Suppose you purchased a home in Las Vegas in 2000 at a cost of $ 200,000. That year your home saw 8% appreciation so the home where your heart is increased to $ 216,000. In 2001 the house increased in value by 9% for a grand total of $ 235,440. In 2002 it went up 8% for a value of $ 254,275.

Hold on to your hats: Then the market in Vegas began to really do wild toad ride. Beginning in 2003 home values increased by 13% which resulted in your digs jumping to $ 287,331. It got even better in 2004 with an additional 40% increase to make the value a whopping $ 402,263. In 2005 your Vegas shanty increased by 20% for a value even greater at $ 482,716. Things started to slow in 2006 to add only 4% making your old $ 200,000 house worth $ 502,025. Then the housing market crashed according to real estate pundits. Alas and alack in 2007 4 % depreciation occurred making the hovel worth a paltry $ 482,000.

Be sure to not live in the wrong zip code: The illustration above speaks to average appreciation and decreases. The 89169 zip code that shows the 24% decrease is near the Strip where the Wynn and Palazzo construction has been going on making single family dwellings drop in value. Other areas that saw speculators rush to buy and flip which pumped their values up like a Ponzi scheme are now showing the steepest decline.

Parallel to the tech stock crash of 2000? Comparisons have been made between the current housing market in Las Vegas and the tech stock crash. While some similarities exist many factors are not the same. With tech stocks people bought in many cases what businesses call “blue sky,” or a concept with little actual value. Those who borrowed to buy stocks usually borrowed what they could afford. With the real estate run-up the product was solid – housing, but lenders were anxious to loan money on housing regardless of the borrower’s strength or without closely examining the property because they were betting on future value. The market may be down but if you still live in your Las Vegas home that you purchased in 2000 for a market value of $ 200,000, the current value of nearly $ 500,000 makes it a good investment.

A little blogging music maestro… “Home of the Blues,” by Johnny Cash.

Dr. Forgot

Traveling

2008-02-22T10:55:00.000-08:00

Guatemala

Did you miss me? We just returned from a trip to Guatemala and did not have time to write while gone. The country is beautiful. It has had a peaceful and stable democracy for the past couple of decades and recently elected a new president. As an American in the political season we sometimes get caught up in our own affairs and do not realize the wealth of other cultures. This is ironic since we are the melting pot of the world.

Habla usted? One reason that we often don’t outward is that we are such a large country. Many of our states are larger than most countries. Another is our wealth. If California were a country, and some believe it should be (just kidding), it would be one of the world’s wealthiest. Another reason is that we can travel coast to coast and border to border for thousands of miles and everybody speaks the same language. In fact, Europeans often tell this joke: “A person who speaks many languages is multi-lingual. A person who speaks three languages is tri-lingual. A person who speaks two languages is bi-lingual, and a person who speaks one language is American.”

Surprises and excitement: I was surprised by the beautiful college campuses in Guatemala. San Carlos University is public and has some 40,000 students and a gaggle of areas of study. Francisco Marroquin University is perhaps the most lavish with stunning architecture in a gorgeous tropical surrounding. The university of the twenty-first century in Guatemala is Galileo University. It is headed by Dr. Eduardo Suger, a brilliant visionary who was a presidential candidate in the recent election. Galileo University is aptly named for the Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer and philosopher who led the scientific revolution in sixteenth century. Today’s students at Galileo emulate their namesake with studies and technology to rival that of any U.S. University.

A religious experience: Guatemala has much to offer and a rich history. Indigenous Mayans performed dentistry and brain surgery in today’s Guatemala when Europeans were fighting with spears. Ruins of the ancient cities are visible in many parts of the country. To get to those places requires a car or bus ride that is guaranteed to bring religion to the hearts of any American who thinks the LA freeways or the I-95 corridor is a traffic experience.

We visited several locations including Chichicastenango, a historic mountain village about three hours from Guatemala City. It is famous for the market that draws many different indigenous Indian groups who sell to locals and tourists. The village is breathtaking as is the trip to get there. Mountains roads, many of which are being improved to four lane highways but are still often under construction, mixed with bus and truck drivers who are out of the best chase scene in any James Bond movie make the trip one that will cause any atheist a reason to find religion.

Back to puns, politics, and satire next week: We will likely need the weekend to recover from our travels but fear not. Our tongue-in-cheek election coverage and Las Vegas updates will return next week. In the meantime we will pause to reflect over the Guatemalan experience where we met some of the most intellectual and hospitable people and saw some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.

A little blogging music maestro… Rick Nelson’s “Travlin’ Man.”

Dr. Forgot.

Money Talks - It Can say, "Goodby"

2008-02-16T21:07:00.000-08:00

If #2 Pencils are so popular – why are they still #2?

Really, who IS #1? Seems like everybody wants to be number one. Sports fans and players extend their index finger whenever a play goes their way. Sometimes they extend a different finger of things do not go their way. Vanity license plates can hold the status of being #1. So when a man in Abu Dhabi decided to auction off his car’s #1 tag, folks lined up to bid on it. I’ mean, if the $5 plate brought $ 6.8 million last year (it did), what would #1 bring. ‘Tis a mystery no longer. The plate was purchased for a cool 52.2dirham. Oh, in American money that would be $ 14.3 million. The buyer has his #1 and more cents than sense.

Some people don’t have good cents: We’ve all seen kids throw pennies onto the street. Nobody bothers to pick them up. A movement exists to get rid of the penny (see post of 10/26/07). Readers old enough to remember penny loafers can remember wearing money in their shoes. And every penny arcade had a machine that encased a penny in an aluminum horseshoe that said, “Keep me and you’ll never go broke.”

Some folks actually save pennies. Walter J. Husak is one such person. His penny collection was recently sold. His collection wasn’t very big – 301 pennies in all. Probably not the most impressive of collections. Although it did have so0me rare pennies including one minted in 1793 for two weeks but stopped because of complaints that Lady Liberty looked frightened. Another minted in 1794 had raised stars to discourage counterfeiting. Those two alone brought over $ 632,000. The entire collection of 301 pennies? $ 10.7 million. That averages out to a tad more than $ 35,000 per penny. That ain’t hay.

Up, up, and away: That is where the money went. Silver State Helicopters owner Jerry Airola’s company filed for bankruptcy protection a couple of weeks ago. Airola flew high including financing his own campaign for sheriff – which lost. The difference between Airola and Mitt Romney is that Mitt spent money he had. Jerry exemplified those immortal words of the great philosopher Francis Albert Sinatra who once crooned, “The higher the top the longer the drop.”

Students at the helicopter school were left high and dry and broke after investing as much as $ 70,000 per student to learn about whirlybirds. The company operated schools in 18 states and collected millions in tuition. For now the school remains grounded and flight students learned a difficult economics lesson.

Where’s Andy Sipowicz when we need him? The old NYPD show, still in reruns was a longtime hit. Members of the precinct caught bad guys and had their share of weirdos to deal with. The show is gone but weirdos are still running loose in the Big Apple. A Parks Department employee who did his job on a golf cart went on a rampage running over and killing at least five birds in a park in Lower Manhattan. The 45-year old birdbrain was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment and intentional injury to an animal.

See you next week: Finally, we will be on hiatus until next Thursday or so. See you then. A little blogging music Maestro… Freddy Fender’s “Going Out With the Tide.”

Dr. Forgot

Friday's Follies

2008-02-15T14:31:00.000-08:00

A Closed Mind is a Good Thing to Lose

Day in the life: Today’s news has been bleak. The shooting of perhaps dozens of students and killing at this writing of six on a bucolic Illinois campus. Not a good way to start the day. Adding to the angst was the conviction of an ex-cop of murdering his pregnant ex-girlfriend and her unborn baby. An early morning blizzard I-8 in San Diego County stranded as many as 30 motorists and a teenager got a tiny cut on his finger that led to an infection and his death.

Smothers Brothers prophetic: Those kings of parody did a song in the 1960s or 70s that still rings true today… “They’re rioting in Africa, They’re starving in Spain, There’s hurricanes in Florida, and Texas needs rain. The whole world is festering with unhappy souls, The French hate the Germans, the Germans hate the Poles, Italians hate Yugoslavs, South Africans hate the Dutch, and I don’t like anybody very much.” Perhaps that is why the campaign message of hope resonates with so many young people.

Wash your eyes out with this: The writer’s strike is over so your favorite shows will continue and late night jokesters will have new and clever material. U2 lead singer arranged a Valentine’s Day charity auction of contemporary artworks to raise money for HIV/AIDS relief programs and earned nearly 43 million for the cause. An Israeli Arab woman applied for a new ID card. As required she showed her birth certificate which seemed to confirm her age – 120. She has 10 sons, the eldest of whom is well into his 80s. Remember, it is reported that it takes fewer muscles to smile than to frown, so be lazy. Smile a lot.

What’s eaten in Vegas stays inside: Locals in Las Vegas are no different than fans of the NY Giants football team. We love to boast, “We’re number one.” We have the most shows, biggest hotels most rooms, best gambling, prettiest women, sunniest weather, fattest people… WHAT???? Men’s Fitness magazine claimed this week that Las Vegas is the fattest ‘hood in the country. And they did not mean the wads of money in our pockets folks, they meant we are portly, rotund, gordo, obese, plump, tubby and gargantuan.

Could it be? Could the city of dancers and performers that has some of the world’s finest restaurants and largest buffets and a gym on every corner also be the community of the greatest blobs? We’re not too sure how this ranking was reached. Of course, anytime a survey is involved magazine sales increase. Add anything about Las Vegas and sales increase more. Of course, the near naked goodbody on the cover of the magazine doesn’t hurt sales.

Local reporter Brendan Buhler did not take a day off when the story appeared. He instead researched some data from the CDC (Center of Disease Control) and discovered that the corner of Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia held the honor of fattest area. The CDC ranks the Valley of the Dollars a paltry 33d. We have to fix that. Drop those dice, get out of the gym, and run from the slots. Go home, lounge in your Lay-Z-Boy and order a pepperoni pizza. We don’t want to see you again until you’ve added a couple of dozen.

A little blogging Maestro… Anything by Fat Joe or Fats Domino.

Dr. Forgot

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-13T22:03:00.000-08:00

Myths and Other Trivia

You’ve gotta believe: People love to believe in myths, superstitions, and the like. Don’t believe me? Ask yourself why you take pains to not break a mirror even though you “know” the seven years of bad luck thing is balderdash. Still not convinced? Walk into any bowling alley and watch the contorted position a bowler ends up after a strike. He will try to mimic that position every time he rolls the ball in an effort to recreate the strike. Ditto golfers, coaches and gamblers of any ilk. Despite the psychology truth that “correlation does not necessarily imply causation,” people find it easier to believe than to seek.

St. Valentine’s Day is for the birds: One myth held that if a young girl saw a particular bird on St. Valentine’s Day she would marry a particular type of man. Blackbird = man of the cloth, bluebird = man of humor, dove = man of kindness, goldfinch = man of wealth, robin = man of the sea, sparrow = man of the country and if she saw a woodpecker on Valentine’s Day she’d remain a spinster.

Top 10 gifts for her on Valentine’s Day: #10, a personally cut CD with her favorite music, #9, tickets for a weekend getaway to either her favorite spot or a romantic place you want to explore (hint: DO NOT take her to the romantic place you and your ex enjoyed so much). # 8, lingerie. Be sure to tell her that she looks better than the models at Victoria’s Secret. #7, dinner out at an upscale restaurant and make it a very special night #6 by getting there in a limo. #5 Chocolates in a heart shaped box, #4, a huge bouquet of roses complete with baby’s breath and greens. #3, jewelry, depending on your budget this could be a heart-shaped locket or lots of diamonds. #2 is poetry. If your ability is limited to “Roses are red, violets are blue,” or if you can only rhyme love to above, perhaps a fine poem from a commercial source would be your choice. And the #1 gift for a most special Valentine’s Day is the renewal of your vows. Take her to a chapel. If I may use the line that you used when wooing her, “Trust me.”

Nothing says “I love you” like a… dolphin? For as long as there’s been romance there have been symbols of love. Today we are most familiar with flowers, especially roses, hearts, lovebirds, doves, and of course Cupid and his arrows. Scholars tell us that Valentine’s and romantic symbols over the years have included pendants, crystals, butterflies, and even dolphins.

Cupid is the son of Venus, the Goddess of Love. According to mythology whomever his arrow hits will fall in love with the first person s/he sees. The love knot concept was born in the Muslim culture where women would send a message of love to a man by tying the knots of a carpet in a certain way and sending him the carpet. It is believed that on Valentine’s Day love birds and doves found their mates. And of course, the heart is the very center of life. Hence, the symbol of cupid’s arrow piercing the heart has come to represent true love.

A little blogging music Maestro…. Today there can be no better selection than John Paul Young’s, “Love is in the Air.”

Dr. Forgot

Another Hump Day in Paradise

2008-02-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

Politics, Weather, and Other Olios

Hell hath no fury: Today's temperature in parts of the Valley of the Dollars is expected to reach the low 70s. A couple of Easterners we know left these balmy temps yesterday and crossed the country and walked smack into an iceberg. Snow, ice, sleet, road closures and pileups. Those are but a few of the reasons why so many Las Vegan have chosen to relocate from the rust belt.

Stick 'em up: That phrase has a whole new meaning these days especially when listening to baseball players and other athletes. The great steroid scandal continues to be played out as former baseballer Roger Clemens maintains his innocence. Perhaps his testimony was full of mispronunciations of names, misuse of words and rambling because he was nervous. I don't think one of the side effects of steroid use is the stupids. Come to think of it that could be a prerequisite for injecting that poison into one's body. But try as they might to blame the user, it is becoming clearer with each testimony that the use of performance enhancing drugs, if not subtly encouraged, was at least ignored by those who should have been watching - and we don't mean the fans.

Sorry Bill, it's for the good of the party: David Wilhelm, former head of the Democratic National Committee and former national manager of President Clinton's campaign is going to (or from, depending on your point of view) the dark side as he has agreed to team up with Barack Obama. He claims it is for the good of the party. That has to come as a severe blow to presidential nominee candidate Senator Hillary Clinton who is watching the wheels come of her campaign bandwagon with the replacement of two top campaign workers.

Build it and they will come: The lights of Las Vegas still shine despite the recent report that Lake Mead will dry up and quit producing electricity in a decade or two. Last year those lights were enjoyed by nearly 40 million people who left the one-arm bandits, table games and other forms of entertainment 11 billion of their money. The record setting pace of visitors and money to the Valley of the Dollars is welcome news to the hoteliers who currently boast an average occupancy rate in excess of 90%. Other communities would kill for that rate. And by 2009 thousands of rooms will be added to the inventory.

How 'bout them Rebels? Congratulations to the UNLV basketball team. Talk about underdogs! Just before the season began their star center left the team. He had been the only tall guy among the hoopsters, leaving a group of midgets - the tallest player is 6'8." Problem is, somebody forgot to tell the Rebels and their coach Lon Kruger that they couldn't cut the mustard. They are a whisper away from another 20-win season and a game behind league leading BYU.

A little blogging music Maestro... how about the UNLV Rebel fight song?

Dr. Forgot

Bet on It

2008-02-12T12:47:00.000-08:00

Dry, Straight Up, or On the Rocks

Lights dim to in Vegas? Dam bad news: A study released recently by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla predicts that within eight years there is a 50-50 chance that water levels in Lake Mead will have receded to the point that it is impossible to generate hydroelectric power. If it proves true not only will the Valley of the Dollars and famous Strip be effected but few realize that the lion’s share of the power generated by Lake Mead turbines goes to Southern California.

The Colorado river which flows into Lake Mead currently operates at a deficit of one million acre-feet of water per year. That amount serves the needs of eight million people. Rather bet on a long shot? The same experts predict a 10 percent chance the lake will dry up within six years and a 50-50 chance the lake will disappear and the Colorado River will become a dry gulch in about a dozen years.

Take my poodle… please: Ever watched those silly dogs prancing around in circles leading their masters and mistresses by the leash? Each year mutts of every uppity description drag their doting owners to the Westminster Kennel Club annual dog show in New York. The canines tolerate their humans and indulge them in allowing for all sorts of grooming, stroking, coaxing, and making absolute asses of themselves (the people, not the dogs) as they prance around the track with their charges.

If you are not steely enough to bet on whether or not Lake Mead will dry up and Las Vegas will return to real desert landscaping in a few years, perhaps a canine wager is your cup of tea. If you happen to meander into the nearest casino sports book – the Wynn for one – you are now able to prognosticate on the odds can be found among those of basketball, hockey, and horse racing winners. Buss your beagle, pick your poodle, sidle up to your shepherd, or cheer for your chow. The televised dog contest was moved from USA to CNBC so as not to conflict with “WWE Monday Night Raw.” Must be quite a spillover between the two audiences.

My mortgage has fallen and it can’t get up: It is no news flash that the real estate market is down and foreclosures are up. Rates are down but repos are up. Feds want to help but aren’t sure how so mortgage holders have gotten step with the frigid weather and have decided to freeze foreclosures for now. Project Lifeline as it is called, will meet with seriously overdue mortgagees and try to work out a plan to help them keep their homes. Three cheers for the companies who have agreed to the plan. They may be a day late and their borrowers a dollar short, but it is a start.

A little blogging music Maestro… “Home is Where the Heart Is” by Elvis.

Dr. Forgot

Monday, Monday

2008-02-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

USA and Chinatown

Who’s Your Daddy? Candidates on both sides of the aisle continue to cry, “Me…. Me…. Pick me.” To the of Senator McCain stands Governor Huckabee. Those right wing religious conservatives seem to heart Huckabee more than a Big Mac. Many openly complain that Mac does not lean as far to the right as they would have him. Reverend Huck has embraced the so-called Religious Right and together they have faith that without their endorsement Big Mac will be unable to sustain his march to the party nomination or a victory in the subsequent election. Pundits favor Mac as the victor but we know how accurate their predictions have been in the past (Think Rudy).

Would the Opposition Rather Pillory Hillary? Or Bomb Obama? Everybody has an opinion regarding who the Republicans would rather run against. Sleazemasters Rush Limbaugh (self proclaimed “On loan From God”) and Anne Coulter (quoted as “I’d rather vote for Hillary than John McCain”) have opinions that inflame and while rarely are on the mark are always in the money. One set of theories is that the Republicans would prefer to run against Hillary because they’ve been preparing for her longer and she and her potential First Laddie seem to be an easier target. Others accept the fact that it will be a horse race regardless of the Democratic nominee.

When your team is losing fire the manager: Such is the policy in baseball, football, and so it seems in politics. The campaign manager for Hillary recently had her sword broken, stripes ripped from her shoulder, and sent packing in favor of a replacement. Whether the newbie can stop the flood of Obama victories remains to be seen.

Happy New Year, Rat: Chinese New Year is typically a big celebration in Las Vegas. Last year it happened to coincide with the NBA All Star Game and the two constituencies meshed like Democrats and Republicans during an election year. Suffice it to say a culture clash was evident that made many Chinese visitors rethink their future visits to the Valley of the Dollars.

Chinese tourism which represents only a small fraction of tourists is expected to Shitake, uh, mushroom in the future. Gaming is still forbidden on Mainland China but with the replication of much of the Las Vegas Strip in Macau, many Chinese residents have had a taste of the Vegas experience and are expected to come to the Valley to experience the real thing. Oh yes, this is the Chinese New Year of the Rat. Local promoters hope stands for Register At The Strip.

A little blogging Maestro… How about the theme from “Chinatown?”

Dr. Forgot

Wowsa, Meowsa!

2008-02-08T11:28:00.000-08:00

(I'm no critic, but....)

Student Stalwarts Straddle Stardom

High School Musical Extrodinaire: Today we will digress from politics and satire and talk about some stupendous students in Las Vegas. Las Vegas High School is on the east side of town. But some local readers might remember the old Las Vegas High School on South Seventh Street - the first and original. When the "school" was moved the original building remained and became a magnet school: the Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing and Visual Arts. Students must audition to earn a slot. The school houses some of the nations future artists and performers and puts on displays and performances that rival those seen on Broadway. Whether Beauty and the Beast , Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, or the other thirty-plus performances over the past half decade, these kids put on a first class operation.

Of course, every mother's son or daughter is the pride of performers, but these kids are the stars of tomorrow. The cast, crew, and faculty directors put on hit after hit that rivals nearly any performance on the Strip. Last Night we enjoyed opening night of CATS, based on "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats," by T.S. Eliot adapted to a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. We've seen the musical performed in London, New York, and Los Angeles. The performance last night compared strongly with any of the others we've seen.

The cast and ensemble, which seemed like thousands of cats, were all superb. Philip Cerza as Munkustrap took the audience on a walk through the lives and haunts of his fellow felines. Among them Lynda DeFuria's Grizabella, Jamie Crider and Arielle Panarae as Mongojerrie and Rumpleteazer, Cody Canyon as Skimbleshanks, and Elija O'Connell as (Aspara)Gus brought their characters to life. The musical solos, especially "Memories" enraptured the audience. Professional Neal Taffe as Old Deuteronomy set an example for the students to emulate as his deep and powerful voice brought it all together in the final Ad-dressing of Cats.

Few who have not been part of a production can appreciate the work and effort that goes on behind the scenes. Musicians enhance the singing and dancing of the cast, the production staff under the direction of Producer/Director Glenn Edwards choreograph, design sets, provide the stunning technical effects, lighting, costuming, sound, hair and makeup, on and on. Without the expertise of the people the audience does not see, the performances would be impossible.

So a flip of the paw and flick of the ears to the Las Vegas Academy Theater and the Las Vegas Academy Dance and Music Departments. If you are a Las Vegan or in town for a visit, CATS is a must see.

Dr. Forgot

Hey Big Spender

2008-02-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

The Agony of de Feet

Oh nooooooo: Mitt Romney could have borrowed a line from a TV celebrity today. As the cartoon character Mr. Bill from Saturday Night Live used to say whenever he was about to get pulverized, "Oh noooooo." Perhaps he ran out of pocket change after spending $ 50 million of his own money, or perhaps he got tired of being beaten up by his fellow Republicans, or perhaps he cut a backroom deal to provide for a Big Mac. Regardless of his motivation, the Mitt has been smit from the race. That leaves only Reverend Mike to stand in the way of the Commodore. It also means that each party is down to two little candidates (see January 30 post Hungry Candidates Await Supper Tuesday and "Ten Little Candidates").

Mitt Wastes $ 50 Mil? He's a piker: Those of us "Little People" as described by the late Leona Helmsley might think that the ability of Governor Mitt to spend $ 50 million of his own money is a huge commitment. Wonder how much he has left (whoops, sorry about the use of the word "left"). I guess it just depends on one's perspective. Steve Wynn, chair and CEO of Wynn Resorts has seen his stock holdings decline by $ 1.4 billion (with a B).

Could it be worse? It could if you're Kirk Kerkorian, majority stockholder of MGM Mirage has seen his portfolio slip by a whopping $ 4.6 billion (also with a B), more than triple the loss of Steve Wynn. And his losses weren't the worst for Las Vegas stake holders!

Local hotel magnate Sheldon Adleson, dreamer and builder of the Venetian and Palazzo Hotels in Las Vegas has had seen an adjustment in his portfolio of nearly triple the amount of Kirkerkorian's loss - $ 10.8 billion! That is a big hit, even if last September he was cited as the third richest American with holdings of $ 28 billion. It reminds me of the sage who once said, "A million here, a million there... pretty soon you're talking about real money.

"Please sir, can I have a little more?" Compared to the guys above, Las Vegas schoolteachers seem a bit like the Charles Dickens character, orphan and beggar Oliver Twist when he dared ask for another morsel of food. Local teachers, hat in hand, have for years begged the legislature for a humble increase in their pay but state budgets have kept them ranked among the bottom few states in pay. One justification is that perks such as no state income tax should make up the difference.

But teachers have come up with a different tack, asking that Fagin, er, the gaming industry's tax rate be increased by a mere three percent with monies designated to be spent on teacher salaries. The state's largest industry compensating teachers??? What a concept!

A little blogging music Maestro.... How about the old Cricket's tune, "Money (That's What I Want)."

Dr. Forgot

Hump Day

2008-02-06T13:48:00.000-08:00

Super Tuesday Settles It… Or Not

Mac, Mitt, Mike: Those to the right of center – but far enough right according to some in the party are each claiming victory. Mike cried “Hallelujah and Amen” as voters in ‘Bama, his homies in Arkansas, peaches in Georgia, volunteers in Tennessee, and mountaineers in West Virginny all decided they hearted Huckabee best. Brother Mitt found Alaskan Eskimos, Colorado Rockers, three M’s (Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Montana) were mmmm-mmmm good to him, as were ballot punchers in N. Dakota and Utah.

The big winner, despite rantings and ravings from a certain pill popper in Florida, was Mac who knifed through nine states (AZ, CA, CO, DE, IL, MO, NJ, NY and OK), all of which were okay to Mac by delivering 423 delegates on a silver platter. Mac must have been singing Abba’s “The Winner Takes it All” as he relished in the Republican rules in most states which give all the state’s delegates to the winner. Super Tuesday’s outcome did not dampen the spirits of either of the other two candidates, however as they still consider themselves contenders.

Tales from the left of center: Hillary must feel that yellow blazer is her lucky coat. Either that or she is considering becoming a school crossing guard after her political career ends. Whether it was the magic yellow blazer or Bill’s lip being zipped, she came out on top Arkansas, Tennessee, and Oklahoma as well as states with large urban centers and heavy Latino makeup – AZ, CA, MA, and the two News; York and Jersey. However, in all states except Arkansas (69%) she took 56% or less of the vote.

If Hillary took the diverse urban states, Barack cruised in the mostly white rural states including 80% of the ballots cast in Idaho, 75% in Alaska and Kansas and 65% in his home state of Illinois. The results made one thing clear – there is no clear winner on the Democratic slate and probably will not be for another month or so. One thing is for sure – there is no sure thing.

When is a flag just a rag? Las Vegas’ Liberty High School colors are red, white, and blue and its mascot is a Patriot. What better setting for a self-proclaimed 18-year old atheist to refuse to stand during the morning flag salute because he objects to the phrase, “One nation under God?” The student was sent to the Dean to get things sorted out but instead called Mommy who told him to come home. He now could be in trouble – not for refusing to stand. The law allows for that. But for leaving campus without permission. What a country!

A little blogging music Maestro… Tommy Blakes, “Freedom.”

Dr. Forgot

Sunday Olio, Super Chooseday

2008-02-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

New York, Political, and Other Giants

Show class in victory and defeat: No longer can the i be removed to make them the New York Gnats. The Pat Riot is over. The Patty-cake from the land of baked beans found that cactus country ended the dry spell of their cross-a-couple-of-states rivals. Brady did not have the beauty from all the other games as the Beast belittled the Pats. As any Monday morning quarterback can say, I saw it coming. The Perfect Pattys could easily have not been so had it not been for a bad call at Baltimore or a bad bounce against Sand Diego or even their previous meeting with the NY Ogres. Eli is due his gin as is the rest of the team. Pat Coach Belichick's belly-ache post game interview could have shown more class. I'm sure his radio played "Hurt So Bad."

Yes We Can: get as many endorsements as possible. Who is winning the race for California backers? Hillary seems to be leading the pack with some 30 high profile backers including politicos Gary Davis, Diane Feinstein, Maxine Waters, and seven city council members as well as entertainers Ron Howard, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ron Howard, Rob Reiner, and Steven Spielberg. Barack trails with some 22 major endorsements including less well known politicos and George Clooney among his actors. On the Republican side Johnny Mac claims 12 endorsements from Sly Stallone, Guv. Arnold, and a host of politicos. Mitt boasts endorsements from 11 politicos including the Orange County GOP chair, and five boosters heart Mike Huckabee including the co-founder of the Minuteman Project, former candidate Duncan Hunter, and tough guy actor Chuck Norris.

CSPAN Class Act: The get-together of the girls for "O" man included "O" ladies Oprah and Michelle, along with supporters Caroline Kennedy and Maria Schriver - wife of the Governator. Oprah was.... well, Oprah. Caroline was fine and Maria made a strong case for her support of Senator Obama. But in this writer's opinion, Michelle Obama stole the show. If was one of the first times she has spoken at length in a national forum. Ms. Obama was as eloquent as she was "down home." Her message is sure to touch the hearts of the young and restless. My only concern is that some conspiracy theorist will start looking into Obama, Oprah, Iowa, and find that there are just too many vowels.

Flipping real estate in Las Vegas: The media gives us our daily dose of the shaky Las Vegas real estate market but we can prove that there are still bargains out there. One report gave upbeat sales figures to commercial buildings and more recently the Gold Spike, which had been purchased six months ago for $ 15.6 million, was recently flipped, or resold for $ 21 million. Not a bad profit.

Bits of Tid: We reported in a post recently that the Monte Carlo and MGM Mirage management showed class in the way guests were handled in the aftermath of their fire. Several guests have spoken out and most seem to be in agreement that personal trauma was kept to a minimum and many were upgraded to suites at other properties. North Las Vegas has grown from its "Northtown" image of a bedroom community for Las Vegans to a formidable competitor to Las Vegas and Henderson. The community or 200,000+ plans to add 330 acres of new gaming and hotel rooms in the I-15/215 area. Remember, Las Vegas was once little more than a watering hole.

A little blogging music Maestro... Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler."

Dr. Forgot

Friday's Follies

2008-02-01T11:36:00.000-08:00

Super Summary

Super Bowl Sunday: This weekend's game in Arizona will be another boon for Las Vegas. From the prop bets - Hilton alone offers 50 pages worth - to betting on the outcome of the game (Pats are hands down favorites but will they cover the spread?), to packages that go through Las Vegas, this will be one of the biggest sports weekends of the year. Beer and snack sales are up, big screen TV sets and recliners are being lugged out of stores, and pizza makers are bracing for an onslaught. A call-girl cal has even gone out since there are not enough escorts to escort fans. The big bowl helps to keep Las Vega$$$ green.

Slip sliding away: Taxable sales slipped in November - a whopping 1.3% according to those who report such things. Can't help but wonder why they did not report that November sales were at 98.7% of last year's record? Still, the weekend should boost sales taxes as well as casino spending. The Valley of the Dollars is usually considered a destination but many Super Bowlers stop here for a few days then mosey on down to the game. Those without tickets opt to stay and see it locally. It is cheaper that way and they get to see replays and those fancy new commercials.

Are candidate debates de bait? It is looking more and more like both parties have their two finalists for the pageant. The Republicans had their debate the other day on the right side of the left coast and Mitt and John seem to be the emerging candidates. Last night the Democrats had their Kodak moment on the left coast as Hillary and Obama continue to be center stage. Seems like it should be a movie - actually two movies. The Rebub debate was cast as "Grumpy Old Men" and the Dem debate was cast as "Love Story."

Where have all the flowers gone? We don't know about the other flowers but if a Rose by any other name (as in Thomas Rose) doth appear as a Peter Piper of Paradise Plumbing, he may have pilfered a peck of palettes from the public pavilion. Police partook plenty of packages from the pigeonhole that belongs to the owner of Paradise Plumbing. Problems persist pursuant to pilferage of University Medical Center property that has pitfallen into places where they should not be perched. Paradise Plumbing was paid 50 grand to replace valves without the benefit of a bidding process. That is perplexing.

Won't you be my friend? It wasn't Mr. Rogers but President Bush who flew into the Valley of the Dollars looking for friends. But most of the Republican officeholders were conspicuously absent to greet him for photo ops. In fact, members of the media were kept at such a distance that it was nigh impossible to get a photo shot of him. The Pres was able to dig up a few supporters including the Guv, who is having many of his own problems that are not unlike those of the Prez. During a 30-minute speech the hand picked audience that gave the biggest round of applause to his correctly pronouncing "Nevada."

New meaning may come to The Strip: Like Rodney Dangerfield, some people just don't get no respect. Take strippers for example. Wait, let me rephrase that. An estimated 10,000 strippers - uh, exotic dancers, actually pay for the privilege of getting naked as independent contractors. But a group of the ladies have sued to become employees and be paid wages by club owners for whom they work. When they say "minimum" they are talking about attire, not wages. A recent ruling cleared the way for a class action lawsuit that some may consider no-class seeking to change the work status. One might say the new law would cover the uncovered.

A little blogging music maestro..."Your Mama Don't Dance" by Poison.

Dr. Forgot

Money - Brilliance and Stupidity

2008-01-31T12:54:00.000-08:00

Logic and Illogic

Why didn't I think of that? Today's local newspaper's editorial page had a letter from Las Vegan Bob Hartman. I don't know him, how long he has been in Las Vegas, or anything else about him but I tip my mortarboard to him. Hartman came up with a suggestion to address the budget shortfall in Nevada. As he puts it, "This may be too simple for the Legislature and governor..."

But before we reveal this brilliant plan, let me refresh your memory. Last week the projected budget shortfall was put at $ 564 million. Others have projected less, but let's take that figure. The Guv has proposed cutting budgets by some 8 percent. That includes budgets of K-12 schools which are already in the bottom 10% in the nation in funding. It also includes cuts to Health and Human Services and Higher Education, both of which are severely underfunded like K-12. Total cuts just among those three entities exceeds $ 231 million plus the loss of another $ 40 million in federal matching funds to HHS if budgets are reduced.

The Guv has refused to raise taxes, has ignored suggestions to tap the "rainy day fund" and has ignored other suggestions. Hartman suggests adding on a $ 1.00 per night surcharge for every room rented. With a statewide room count of about 130,000 and 90% occupancy, the surcharge would yield nearly $ 43 million in a year. A $ 2.00 surcharge would yield nearly $ 86 million. My vote for State Budget Director goes to Mr. Hartman.

NCAA pretends to come clean: We have railed against the NCAA and their predatory practices against athletes in the past. College athletes, especially in the so-called revenue-generating sports of football and basketball are too often Gladiators courted by schools more concerned with the bottom line than the academic best interest of the athlete. The indentured servitude lasts for four or five years during which time an NCAA violation occurs if a scholarship athlete accepts a free t-shirt, meal, or any other so-called "extra benefit" not available to the student body in general.

The payoff for the athlete, says the NCAA is a college degree which is earned in many cases by fewer than half of the Gladiators. The NCAA lives in grand style off the spoils produced by the Gladiators. Plush offices and frequent travel to meetings, fine food in only the best hotels are but a few of the perks enjoyed by NCAA members. TV contracts, licensing agreements and bowl payouts provide hundreds of millions of dollars to NCAA schools and administrations. Coaches earn millions. Players earn peanuts.

A teeny-weeny pushback occurred when four athletes filed a class action lawsuit. But the NCAA, fearing a lawsuit might bring further scrutiny agreed to a settlement of $ 10 million - a drop in the bucket compared to revenue produced by the athletes. NCAA sources show revenue of
$ 564 million for the 2006-07 year. Each of the five BCS Bowl games paid out $ 17 million. The NCAA got off easy. I can hardly wait for the next class action.

A little blogging music maestro.... "Money for Nothing," by Dire Straits.

Dr. Forgot

Behind the Headlines

2008-01-30T16:50:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas Hip, Hip, Hype

Home sales in the toilet: I don't blame the pundits, headline writers, and analysts, really I don't. They have to produce something that will attract people so their ratings increase so more advertisers can be attracted to pay higher prices for ads. What makes the whole engine run is that naive and lazy readers of and listeners to the headline writers and media pundits. Recent surveys show that a shocking number of people get their news from comedy and satirical news shows. Most people do not take the time to investigate or research on their own.That is why we get exactly the political leadership we deserve.

A recent headline shouted that a study shows homes still unaffordable. The implication from the headline is that homes are affordable by only a few. But homes are still affordable. Ok, perhaps the zero down loans for 105% of the appraised value no longer exist. It might take a family a while longer to save up for a 10% down payment on a home, but the market is flush with good deals.

Another recent headline bemoaned, "Five percent unemployment highest in years." Hello! It does not take a Phi Beta Kappa math major to subtract five from 100% and determine that the corollary of the headline is that 95% of the work force is not unemployed.

A third headline shrieks, "Foreclosure filings soar during '07," citing a report that shows 3.7% of houses in Nevada received foreclosure notices in 2007. Despite the fact that receiving a notice does not necessarily mean foreclosure will automatically follow (intermediate steps can often be taken), even at face value of the headline, the converse is that 96.6% of Nevada houses did not receive foreclosure notices.

In fairness, some good news was squeezed in among the fear mongering. Retail development "continued to flourish" according to another article. The number of hotel rooms continues to grow as does tourism.

So do your own homework. Don't copy the answers from somebody else because that person has his own TV program or writes about economics. Plenty of research is available. Remember, you can lead a horse to water but you cannot make him drink. You can lead a man to knowledge but you cannot make him think.

A little blogging music Maestro... George Gershwin's "It Ain't Necessarily So," from Porgy and Bess.

Dr. Forgot

Marx's Tomb. A Communist Plot

2008-01-29T11:09:00.000-08:00

Sunnyday Tuesday in Sunshine State

El Primerio - Fighting it out in Florida: Today is the day that Rudy Guiliani will find out if his battle plan worked. Like the beggar who asked for $ 500 for a cup of coffee, Rudy decided to put all his begs into one ask-it. Senator McCain is basking in the limelight of having received the endorsement of the Guv. Pundits say that gives him the battle but not the war - yet. Mut the Good Guv Mitt is not ready to be smit by the McCain machine. His pundits say the race is a dead heat. If they tie, it is going to be interesting to see how the 57 Florida delegates will be split. In the back of the voting classroom Rudy and Rev. Huckabee are doing their best Horschak imitation of "Me, me me. Pick me!" We will bring you the results in tomorrows post.

Democratic Faux Pas? The Dems have certainly had a quiver-full of Florida frustrations from hanging chads in 2000 to touch screen fiascoes in 2004. So what is their strategy this year in the fourth most populous state with oodles of big money donors? They play hooky. The DNC punished Florida for moving its primary to January 29. But the spanking backfired as it left the Republican candidates almost unlimited free airtime the week before Super Tuesday. That showed those nasty little Florida legislators. Note to the DNC: Can you say, "Ready, Fire, Aim?"

Top of the Monte Carlo Conversation: We reported yesterday that workers would try to begin to repair fire damage to the Monte Carlo despite high winds. Instead we are imagining a conversation between a couple of rooftop construction workers that may have gone: Worker 1: Windy, ain't it? Worker 2: No, it's colder than Thursday. Worker 1. Me too. Lets get a hot cup of Joe. Work will begin in earnest today.

Bits of tid: This is a new segment of our posting. We will occasionally provide a gaggle of activities and happenings. Are you strapped in? That "Whole Lot of Shakin' Goin' On" in the Lake Tahoe area was not Jerry Lee Lewis. A 3.2 temblor hit the Incline Village area yesterday. One finger salute from the auto dealer who wants to fly an oversize flag on an oversized pole. City fathers say, "No, no." Car dealer says, "Watch this!" That white stuff on Mt. Charleston is legal. Sixteen inches of snow fell in the mountains around Las Vegas this weekend. Snow bunnies are delighted. Of course the curmudgeons say, "The more snow, the more opportunities for avalanches. Right. And the more rain the more opportunities for drowning.

A little blogging music Maestro... "Going Out of My Mind"

Dr. Forgot

Everything in Moderation. Even Moderation

2008-01-28T12:49:00.000-08:00

Everything you Want to Know

Equal rignts; Equal justice: Life just isn't always fair. Take for instance the penalty for dognapping in Virginia - a felony that can result in up to 10 years in the hoosegow. But steal a cat (would that be a cat nap?) and the penalty is but a misdemeanor. Local politicians are up in arms, er, paws about the discrepency. The proposal has been dubbed, "Ernie's law" after Ernie the kitten that was stolen from the SPCA. At this writing we're not sure if the law will pass or if it will be scratched. But we do know that being in the doghouse means trouble but being in the.... well, you get the idea.

Off-Strip dining elegance: Last night we attended a birthday dinner way off the Las Vegas Strip. A recently-opened restaurant called Six Tables is on Lake Mead and Rampart, about as far away from the strip as one can get. But it is somethingt new for Las Vegas - elegant and upscale with a strong European flavor. Six tables is the maximum that will be seated at any given time and only one seating per night - 7:00 p.m. Las Vegans are nortorious for arriving fashionable late but Chef Roland tells us they're getting there on time. A full course meal with no microwave preparation. A two hour dinner. No need to fight the tourists. How much better can it get?

Nothing is guaranteed but death and taxes: Take actor Wesley Snipes. Ok, if you don't take him the government might. The feds are sniping at the actor for no other reason than he stopped paying his income taxes. Oh, yes, he also demanded $ 11 millon in taxes that he'd already paid. Who does this guy think he is, Halliburton? Prosecutors ask that if he likes the number 11, how does he feel about 16? That is the number of years he could serve if convicted.

Windy with a chance of cleanup: Today's weather in Las Vegas emulates some politicians - blowhard. When the winds blow the cradle might fall but hundreds of cleanup workers put on their longjohns and gear up to clean up the Monte Carlo after the fire. The 2,400 guests, all of whom were relocated to rooms in other hotels where the smoke did not get in their eyes, have mostly left Las Vegas. Employees of the hotel are at this writing drawing their full salaries. Some have been asked to participate in cleanup efforts and the others are asked to check a hotline number daily. A tip of the hat to the Monte Carlo and owners MGM-Mirage for their class in handling of this event.

Politics ala Republican: As candidates get ready for the opening bell in the Florida primary the M&M boys, Mitt and McCain, continue their slugfest for position while Rudy must be asking himself, "Is anybody out there listening to me?" Rudy's strategy was like a marathon runner who did not start the race until the rest of the pack was five miles down the road. Meanwhile, back at the boxing ring Senator McCain accused Mitt of having a plan for troop removal. Mitt got so angry he said, "You, you... are being dishonest!" Wow. That should put the Arizonan in his place.

Politics ala Democrat: Hillary and Bill, who have been doing their best Billary campaign performance, walked directly into a haymaker from left field. Call it the Kennedy Krunch. Sunday's media told of Caroline's support letter for Senator Obama, then today Teddy and Patrick of the Kennedys announced their Barack support as well. Senator Clinton will take a standing eight count while her corner's cutman wipes the blood from her scorecard. Between rounds, from now until Tuesday her camp will try to figure out a strategy to overcome today's blow.

A little blogging music Maestro... "Not Ready to Make Nice," by the Dixie Chicks.

Dr. Forgot

Out of My Mind. Back Shortly

2008-01-27T13:01:00.000-08:00

Rain and Other Poppycock

It never rains in California: But it rains regularly in Las Vegas - a couple of times in January, once or twice in February, then a few sprinkles every 90 days or so until the annual 3.75" rainfall has been reached. In some respectable communities near Seattle, Dallas, or Pittsburgh, that 3.75" can fall in hours. When it rained in Las Vegas in the old days there would be gully washers as the high points in the west part of the valley saw water cascading to the lower parts of the east valley and on to Lake Mead. Caesars Palace parking lot was built in the midst of one of the gullys and cars used to float from one side to the other and under the Strip. But flood control ruined all that and catch basins now deny current generations the thrill of watching the desert floods.

Prop up the Super Bowl betting: Betting purists look down their noses at prop or proposition bets - bets on obtuse kinds of things associated with the big games such as who might win the coin toss, who will get the first first down, longest pass completion, reception, run from scrimmage, etc. But bets on the offbeat and simple kinds of things that can happen in a game have brought thousands of new bettors to the windows of the casinos. A person doesn't have to have an intimate knowledge of the game to understand the longest pass or run play. As for me, I'm still not sure if inside linebackers play indoors and outside linebackers play outdoors. But I have a prop bet: I'll bet that the Monte Carlo casino and sports book gets reopened in time to bet on the Super Bowl.

Vote for Hardy. That's Party Hardy: Local city council members might be described like an Italian mushroom. There's many a "fun-guy" among them. The local Sun newspaper did an 18-month review of the spending habits of what wacky Latin might describe as "politicus spendus." Special event spending prizes go to Steven Ross, Lois Tarkanian, and Gary Reese led the pack of spending on items such as hula dancers, candy bars beach balls and dog treats to the tune of over $ 150,000. That should make taxpayers roll over and play dead. The story also revealed that Hizzoner the mayor spent a paltry two grand on such silliness. So much for his reputation as a big time party mayor.

Swing and a miss: A local attorney who bills himself as "The Heavy Hitter" on his local promos is about to strike out in the eyes of the judicial system. Barrister Glen Lerner missed the first day of his client's murder trial last week. The heavy hitter was not exactly in the training room getting his ankles taped for the national pastime, he was instead on "sabbatical" in Pennsylvania. He muffed his line drive as though it were a blooper to the infield. Talk about mixed metaphors. The umpire, er, judge, in this case, Michelle Leavitt, has not ruled if his excuse was fair or foul, but it is clear that the barrister is not batting a thousand on this field. Was his move a balk? We will let you know the score as soon as it comes in.

A little blogging music Maestro.... perhaps a few bars of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."

Dr. Forgot

Monte Carlo - Money to Burn

2008-01-26T14:42:00.000-08:00

Saturday's Leftovers

Meanwhile, back at the post: When we last met you, during the day of yester, the fire at the Monte Carlo in Las Vegas blazed, the sky was falling, and plenty of tourists and locals were running around trying to get the best shot of the flames for posterity or to sell to Fox news or both. A fisheye look at some of the events that surrounded Blazing Battles follow.

First things first: The instant it was determined that an emergency existed, highly trained Monte Carlo employees flew into action starting with casino employees who battened down the hatches - which is to say they secured the moolah. Maids, security, and others who were on various floors went door to door knocking and opening to be sure all were being evacuated. Factoid: it is believed that at any given time some 20% of the hotel guests are asleep in this 24-hour town.

Shoo, shoo, all of you: Once the hotel was cleared of guests employees exited the property and effectively turned it over to the professionals - firefighters, police, and journalists. The firefighters from Fire Station #11 just down the street (Strip) arrived first, right at 11:00, along with police who were on routine patrol in the area. Since the hotel had been about 90% occupied including Miss America pageant contestants, several journalists from around the world happened to be there. Within minutes the local TV and radio stations as well as CNN, Fox News, and other national outlets were abuzz with "Fire in Las Vegas."

Obligatory coverage: Since it had a slow news day, the electronic equivalent of "EXTRA, EXTRA!" resonated throughout the airwaves and helicopter shots were followed by i-reporters shots and the airwaves were inundated with the story, giving TV its biggest boost since the writers strike began. This looked to be a really, really big story. Except that the fire burned itself out in a couple of hours without serious injury or loss of life - in fact no rooms were damaged, only the sign and facade on the roof. But coverage continued with some clever angles. A bride whose wedding dress was inside the hotel, birthday and anniversary celebrants who had partied all night and just gotten to bed, housekeepers who knocked on doors, and others who in the "Where were you when..." interviews made for excellent post-fire coverage.

Could have been worse: As the interviews waned the obligatory comparisons with former fires began to take over - the big one at the MGM Grand (now Ballys) in 1980 that killed 87 followed a few months later by and arson fire at the Hilton that killed 8 (the arsonist was convicted and sentenced to 8 life terms) and how changes have been made in high rise fire safety.

Bottom line: at this juncture it looks like Monte Carlo employees, firefighters, police all rehearsed and did their jobs well preventing any serious injuries. All guests were relocated and life in Las Vegas is back to abnormal.

A little blogging music Maestro...this will have to be Jerry Lee Lewis "Great Balls of Fire!"

Dr. Forgot

Friday's Follies

2008-01-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

The Week in Review

Gore Invented the Internet. Quayle did the Spellcheck: Politics continue to run rampant and will continue to do so. Today's chatter is full of the Dems in South Carolina and Repubs two states further south in Florida. The bickering among candidates and between parties has been going at a fever pitch. Hillary and Barrack diss each other to the point that Uncle John scolds them. On the other side of the wannabe aisle "Straight Talk John, zaps Amen Huck, who pings Mormon Mitt, who belittles Rugged Rudy who dumps on Rally-round-me Ron who pounds the policies of George who isn't even in the race.

Each candidate spends plenty of time degrading their opponents views then a little time defending their own platform. With so many contradicting charges and defenses, somebody has to be stretching the truth. The whole series of misstatements, spins, and untruths remind me of a quote from physician and writer John Arbuthnot whose life straddled the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, "Political parties die from swallowing their own lies." Perhaps we are seeing two parties choking on their own pablum. It might be time for a third or even fourth party to enter the fray. Could something be Blooming in New York?

Bring back the good old days: Three cheers for Terry Caudill. For those who are able to remember Downtown's Glitter Gulch in the days when most casinos were owned by locals who spent much of their time on site, things are reverting. Caudill is a homey. A UNR grad who worked as a keno runner and craps dealer. Keno running literally takes place on the ground floor. His mix of formal education and OJT makes him a good bet to add former King Benny Binion's place to his deck of Queens. Terry, owner of the Four Queens was recently cleared to be the owner of Binion's Gambling Hall & Hotel.

Union's dilemma: The local unions will have to practice their tightrope walking. Revenue to state tax coffers are as bare as Mother Hubbard's cupboard. The Sir Gibbons the Guv has proposed cuts in all state budgets, resulting in a howl from those who feel the squeeze. The Guv pulled an ace from his sleeve and signed an executive order that repealed the use of project labor agreements, or PLAs. The agreements are agreements between public agencies and unions that effectively give the unions contracts that guarantee wages and benefits. Think pre-emptive no-strike. The union dilemma? Let the work go to non-union contractors and save the state millions, or insist on a hit and hope they don't bust.

THIS JUST IN... As we create today's post word comes that the top four floors of the Monte Carlo Hotel are on fire. The 32-story hotel that accommodates some 3,000 guests is ablaze. At this writing there are no reports of injuries or deaths. We will update you in tomorrow's post.

Dr. Forgot

Button Up Your Overquote

2008-01-24T10:23:00.000-08:00

Who Said That?

Las Vegas is a city like no other. One of my favorite quotes about Las Vegas came from Johnny Carson who described the homey atmosphere as: "Beneath all that phony glitter and tinsel you'll find real honest-to-God glitter and tinsel." Las Vegas was little more than a way station for the railroad between Salt Lake City and Los Angeles until gaming was legalized. Legend has it that when the proposal went before the legislature to legalize gaming crafters of the bill decided it would be more palatable if gaming revenues went to a good cause so they included a provision that a good portion of the gaming revenue go to education. As the story goes, a couple of little old elected officials from the cow counties said, "We don't need your dirty money educating our kids." And that portion of the bill was struck. Truth or fiction? No matter. One can only imagine the research centers that would exist today in Nevada had it been so.

Stephen Alan Wynn was born a Connecticut Yankee in the midst of World War II. A good enough student to get into Penn, he earned a degree with a major in English Literature. He took over the family bingo parlor business and parlayed that into an interest in the Frontier hotel then the Golden Nugget downtown, which he transformed into a 4-diamond resort. From there it was the Mirage, Treasure Island, and Bellagio and finally the Wynn. He waxed eloquent as the English major he was when he said, "Las Vegas is sort of how God would do it if he had money."

Chuck Palahnuik was born on the opposite side of the country - Pascoe, Washington. He wrote, among other horror and fiction stories, "Fight Club." Chuck agrees with Mr. Wynn's assessment of Las Vegas with his own slant, "Las Vegas looks the way you must imagine heaven looks at night."

Each quote above has included an allusion to Deity or heaven. Although the Valley of the Dollars is said to have more churches per capita than casinos, the religious comments are not restricted to holy places. Comments such as "Oh God!" and "Oh my God," can be heard in casinos after a jackpot, after losing big on the tables, and even in the bridal suites. Others marvel at what was built in soil that could not grow a decent crop.

Comic Jason Love once remarked, "Las Vegas has all the amenities of a modern society in a habitat unfit to grow a tomato."

We could not conclude without a quote from "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" author Hunter S. Thompson, "I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they've always worked for me."

Finally, in keeping with the religious theme, journalist David Lamb has a more portly perspective, "Las Vegas is the world capital of obesity. You can buy candy by the yard or the bucket at the Candy Jar in town, and there are more fat people here at any one time than there are Muslims in Mecca."

A little blogging music Maestro... ah the strains of Elvis singing "Viva Las Vegas."

Dr. Forgot

Liars, Damn Liars, and Politicians

2008-01-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

Summary to Date

Liar, Liar, Iraqi Fire: The problems keep adding up for the current administration. A study by two non-profit journalism organizations reported the Bush White House told more than a few little white lies about Iraq in the two years after 9/11. Of the 935 false statements by the Decider, the Vice Decider, and top level staff, 532 untruths stated that Iraq had WMDs, was trying to produce them, or had links to al-Qaeda. It worked.

Poor Dennis Kucinich: He has been running for the presidential nomination consistently slightly below none of the above. He has been treated worse than Rodney Dangerfield while seeking respect. Last week prior to the Las Vegas Democratic caucus DK was invited to be one of the four candidates to grace the Cashman Center stage. But a funny thing happened to the long shot from Ohio on his way to the debate - he was, as the Country and Western song says, "stepped on, lied to, cheated on and treated like dirt." Master debater NBC (Nothing But Caucuses) decided that three on a match played better than a foursome so they shoved the Ohio odd man out.

DK cried, "Foul" and on Debate Eve stepped to the legal free throw line - the court system. But the case landed in the lap of a missing judge - one who has been suspended because she asked her bailiff to rub her sore feet and other stupid stuff for a judge to do. The case went to a substitute judge who had been whistled into the courtroom for the day. But Judge Sub was in a hurry to get to his real courtroom so an hour and a half after DK filed his suit Judge Sub sat patiently for 20 minutes and told (NBC) Never Bank on Courts it had to let the gentleman from Ohio orate. When the sun next rose on the Valley of the Dollars the state Supreme Court upset the applecart and overturned the hasty pudding judges decision. Solon Kucinich sat out the debate and must have been Nothing But Crushed.

Some Caucus Slobs: The at large sites that were set up at hotels on and near the Strip got most of the publicity but the caucus was held mostly at schools. The Clark County School District did their part for democracy by allowing 258 local schools to be used as sites. For the most part the caucus goers followed the school rules, but one group put themselves at risk of being suspended until their parents could come in and meet with the principal. Some might have put on restriction for the rest of their lives plus two weeks. Caucus goers in one upscale community ignored agreed upon rules that forbid campaign signs from being affixed or stuck in the ground, food being eaten in classrooms and, well you remember the rules. Cleanup will cost an estimated $ 100 grand which the school district plans to bill the organizers.

Fiscal Health of Health Care Group: A couple of decades ago a group of local doctors, fed up with health care system red tape, decided to start their own. The health services group grew and thrived as the entire Valley of the Dollars did for many years. They became so attractive that a national group decided to buy the locals. The national group is in the midst of consummating the deal when they stated their fourth quarter earnings. They had their worst fourth quarter in over a decade - a mere $ 1.22 billion in net income. Things are tough all over.

A little blogging music Maestro... "Crazy Times" by Gene Vincent.

Dr. Forgot

More on the Raucus Coucus

2008-01-22T11:16:00.000-08:00

Hail Caesar and Other Hotels

We referred in a previous post to the "Bacchus Caucus," as sites were approved in Caesars Palace as well as several other on and off-Strip hotel locations. The purpose was for the Democratic party to get more people involved in the election process and did it ever! Latest estimates were that more than 116,000 caucused for their candidates including many registered Republicans and Independents who registered as Democrats for the day. Analysts wonder at the long term impact the numbers might have, especially of those registered Republicans who would rather switch than fight. Will they vote for the party of the switch, or did they get caught up in the euphoria of a rare caucus in Nevada?

Another interesting phenomenon of the statewide caucus is the number of rural voters who tossed their support to the Obama camp rather than the Clinton camp. The mining and ranching counties are meager in population compared to Clark and Washoe counties, and are historically Republican dominated, yet in nine of 14 of those counties Obama was a decisive winner. That helped to give him the edge in delegates even though Senator Clinton won the popular vote - a fact that made some Democrats shudder as they reflected over a similar phenomenon that occurred in the Gore/Bush election of 2000.

Is Billy a bully? After the Iowa primary in a state that has been described as "the whitest place outside the North Pole" gave Senator Obama the nod over Senator Clinton, weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth was heard from the Clinton camp and seen in interviews - mostly through the pipeline of the media and talk show pundits. Republicans sat up and took notice as they had for years been preparing a campaign against the former first lady - to keep Bill from becoming the country's main man. The gloves came off in the Clinton camp and Sexy Ex-Prexy Bill became a player (although many felt he had been a player for some time). The result was two consecutive Hillary victories.

But some say that the country's ex had no business providing "Give me a break" and other critical soundbites. Regardless of what else Exy Prexy might be he is a strong campaigner. That much was evidenced in Las Vegas when he relentlessly sought as much back-of-the-house access to employees as he could get in an effort to blunt the culinary support of Obama. And it worked. Although Hillary supporters railed against the Strip caucus sites because they were seen as strengthening the Obama endorsement, she won the popular vote at nearly every site.

Four years ago the Demos were barely able to eke out 10,000 folks to caucus. This time 116,000 showed including as many as 40,000 new registrations, The large numbers also brought plenty of complaints about the mechanics of the caucus. Long lines, early door closures, and jeering of the opposing candidates were but a few of the complaints. Party leaders saw the glitches as the result of a good thing - the large number of potential voters. Will the excitement hold? Time will tell.

A little blogging music Maestro... Cindy Lauper's "Time After Time."

Dr. Forgot

Who Can? Republican. Who's That Democrat?

2008-01-19T15:36:00.001-08:00

And the winner is:

At this writing with nearly 100% of the precincts reporting in Nevada, the local Republicans have spoken. Ant the word uttered from most of the Republican lips rhymes with hit, what is what John McCain and the other Republican hopefuls took from Mitt Romney. While some pundits and pollsters predicted McCain and Huckabee running stronger, that shows their failure to become acquainted with Nevada culture.

Nevada has a large contingent of well educated, well organized, politically savvy Mormons, many of whom blatantly support their favorite son, Mitt Romney. Similar demographics exist in Wyoming a state Mitt also left smiling. But another unmentioned factor exists among Nevada voters - they don't like John McCain. He has railed against legal gambling and supported measures detrimental to the gaming industry. Although McCain is from a neighboring state, he is viewed as not a friend of Nevada. That could explain his third place finish behind the prodigal and "Who the Heck is Ron Paul."

Many pundits felt Fred Thompson would do better than a tie with Huckabee since he is in the entertainment business. Huckabee's showing did not surprise many. While Nevada is generally conservative politically, it is not evangelical. Finally, Rudy Guiliani whose face was on everybody's TV screen in the 9/11 aftermath barely eked out a few more votes than Duncan Hunter - who many voters thought was a cake mix.

The Democrat caucuses were significant if for no other reason that ten to 15 times as many showed up to caucus as in 2006. Not so surprising is that the pollsters and pundits got it wrong again. While they predicted a Hillary victory, the margin of victory over Obama was predicted at ten-15 points. It turned out to be barely a five point victory, and that is with the Clinton campaign pulling out all stops and former President Clinton stumping for his wife at virtually every Strip hotel. The two front runners garnered 96% of the votes between them. Running a far distant third was Senator Edwards who received a mere four percent, and Dennis Kucinich who came in below "none of the above."

Pundits who felt Edwards would do better in Nevada now say he could still play a significant role as king-maker depending on which candidate he eventually throws his support behind. That is, of course, assuming his star does not rise again among the forty-some states that are left to decide who will be the candidate of choice going into the fall elections.

A little blogging music Maestro... the old Dixie standard, Race Track Boogie."

Dr. Forgot

The Bacchus Caucus at Ceasars et.al.

2008-01-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

Walk Us To The Caucus

If there is one thing the Nevada Democratic caucus has done it is to raise awareness about the political process on both sides of the aisle. Prior to this election the avreage culinary worker, I daresay, thought a caucus was some sort of food preparation. Even among those not of the culinary union ilk the very word caucus sounded odd. But thanks to the teachers union the term will forever be ingrained in our lexicon.

A bit of Democratic Nevada Caucus history: Last May it was determined that at-large caucuses would be held for those who worked on caucus day and be otherwise unable to caucus in their assigned locations - which are based on one's residence. It would be not unlike allowing 1950s auto workers in Detroit to caucus in auto plants or steel workers in Pittsburgh to caucus in steel mills. The largest group of unionized workers in Nevada is the Culinary Union. The plan was reviewed and approved in October and nine Strip area hotels were identified to make time and space available for culinary workers. So far so food.

Then a fly landed in the ointment. The culinary union decided to endorse Senator Obama. Shortly thereafter the Nevada state teacher's union, which leans toward Hillary, decided that at-large caucus sites on the Strip were inappropriate since other employee groups were not given the same option. The culinary union retorted that the vast majority of union workers who would be employed during the Saturday caucus were culinary workers employed on the Strip and therefore the at-large sites were justified. Others claimed the timing of the protest came only after culinary made their endorsement. The teachers union filed a lawsuit to block the at-large sites. A federal judge denied the suit. Score: Waiters 1, Teachers 0.

But the teachers union and other Clinton supporters might get the last laugh as they prepare for a Sunday chant of, "No more caucus, no more cooks, no more culinary sassy looks." Pollsters have projected that despite the Culinary Union endorsement Senator Clinton is projected to carry 41% of the Nevada Democratic voters to Senator Obama's 32%. And we all know how accurate the pollsters can be.

As for John Edwards, who continues to Show in the presidential horse races, it will be interesting to see who he will support once he wakes up and smells the Starbucks, and realizes that his biggest bargaining ship will come in the form of his endorsement.

A little blogging music Maestro, let's hear the Minutemen do, "This Ain't No Picnic."

Dr. Forgot

Year of the Cat

2008-01-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

One Life, Maybe Two

They say a cat has nine lives. But this cat - or more correctly, catalytic converter, has one for sure but maybe two. The catalytic converter is a device under your car. In all likelihood you have never seen it. It makes its best efforts to return the atmosphere back to the days when air was clean and sex was dirty and polluting cars were not a problem. The feds mandate the device to be attached to every car and it has been so attached since for the past thirty-plus years.

Pretty boring so far, huh? In order for your car to purr cleanly the cat is comprised of, among other things, precious metals - as in platinum, palladium, and rhodium which collectively sell for well over $ 8,000 PER OUNCE! And what happens as the value of the dollar drops as it has been doing for months? The value of precious metals skyrockets. And that makes the catalytic converters great for recycling. Are you starting to hear the magic words, "Here kitty, kitty, kitty?"

Where does one take a hot cat for a cool payoff? the same place copper thieves take stolen copper that has been ripped out everything from street lamps to air conditioning units - any recycling center. Word on the street is that each one of the metal felines brings between $ 100 and $ 200. Let's see, it takes any old drugged up hippie 10 minutes or so to remove the device. A practiced thief with a portable battery-powered saw can have one gone in 60 seconds. Thieves can live pretty well working part time.

What of the hapless car owner? Costs up to a couple of grand to get the meow back on your motor. So who wins? Crooks and recyclers. Who loses? Individuals - simply for the deductible if they are insured, but for the whole ball of platinum if they are not, and insurance companies. And who gets to pay the additional cost of insurance because of the rash of thefts of these little kittens? You and me.

Law enforcement folks tell us that SUVs, 4-Runners, and other trucks that sit high are most vulnerable to the converter thefts since they sit high off the ground making it easier for a thief to slip underneath and do the dirty deed. The problem is not unique to Las Vegas. The Topix.com blog has more than 250 stories of such thefts - and that is only one board! The answer is not in locking or otherwise protecting the device, as that is next to impossible. Even if your car is equipped with an alarm it is unlikely that it would be tripped as the two unkind cuts are made to allow for removal.

The solution is stricter enforcement of the recycle yards. Require a photo and thumbprint for every sale. As for punishment of both the catalytic converter and copper thieves? I haven't decided whether capital punishment is appropriate - but then my cat has not yet been stolen (as far as I know).

A little blogging music Maestro... "Steal My Heart Away," by Van Morrison.

Dr. Forgot

When Shall We Three Meet Again?

2008-01-15T09:13:00.000-08:00

Shakespeare 101

Today we will to describe the upcoming Nevada Democratic Caucus as though it were a Shakespearean play. Let's first set the stage as though it were Macbeth, Act IV, Scene I: "When shall we three meet again? In thunder lightning or in rain. When the hurlyburly's done. When the battle's lost and won. Double double toil and trouble. Fires burn and cauldrons bubble" Sorry, Mr. Kucinich, Shakespeare didn't write the scene for four.

Later, in the garden Juliet, played by Senator Clinton, discusses whether she should emphasize the name Rodham or Clinton, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."

Macbeth, played by Senator Edwards pines for primaries in the Southern states where he feels his strength lies, "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow. Creeps in this petty pace from day to day."

In a scene from Hamlet, Senator Obama talks to the media regarding Hillary's denial that her camp had anything to do with the lawsuit to bar at-large caucuses. The lawsuit would play to her advantage. "The lady doth protest too much, methinks."

Meanwhile, across the country in Michigan, Governor Huckabee, playing Duke Orsinio in Twelfth Night, has been taking a beating from his opponents. Ever the optimist he picks up his guitar and says to the people of Michigan, "If music be the fruit of love, play on."

Back in Nevada, President Clinton discusses strategy with Hillary. She asks what he thought of her emotional display in New Hampshire. Jacques, played by Bill responds, "All the world's a stage. All the men and women merely players."

Senator Obama, as Hamlet, is being encouraged by his advisors to come out a little more negative in his debates. The senator ponders then responds, "To be (negative) or not to be. That is the question."

President Clinton has left the room but Hillary has an important question for him regarding the caucus so she calls to him, "Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou?"

A culinary worker asks Senator Edwards whether he feels he has a chance for the nomination given the fact that he has been running such a distant third. Senator Edwards, as Prospero responds, "(Winning the election is) Such stuff as dreams are made on."

As the caucus draws to a close, Juliet, again played by Senator Clinton, waves goodbye to the Nevada crowd and cries, "Parting is such sweet sorrow."

Dennis Kucinich as Richard in Richard the Third laments to his entourage his distant fourth place finish, "Now is the winter of our discontent."

While Senator Obama, ever the optimist, looks to the Florida primary with optimism and this time as Romeo asks, "What light through yonder window breaks?"

And Senator Edwards, as Hamlet, who has just been given the news that Mitt Romney will drop out of the race after placing a distant third in Michigan, comments, "Alas poor Yorick. I knew him well."

And so boys and girls the curtain falls on another caucus. Who wins in the end? You must attend the next play to find out.

A little blogging music Maestro? What else but Korn's "Politics."

Dr. Forgot

Money, Money, Money - Its A Rich Man's World

2008-01-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

Votes "Fore" Sale?

Nevada is having problems making ends meet. Join the club. Governor Terminator of the Earthquake State next door has it even worse and has proposed drastic budget cuts. Ditto our own Guv who first said that K-12 education would avoid the 8% tax cuts of higher education system, prisons, social programs, and nearly every other state agency. Then he told the little kiddies, "Not!" and said millions had to be slashed from the peanut gallery budget. No exemptions. No excuses. Nobody gets to avoid the slashes.

"Twenty lashes," responded the teacher's union. "Not only is the Guv a liar, liar, pants on fire, the gaming industry isn't paying their fair share. We need money to educate the kids and since some states tax their gaming at a rate several times higher than Nevada, how about tacking on a few percentage points for reading, writing, and 'Rithmatic?"

"Blasphemy!" cried the gaming industry, "It will kill tourism. People will go elsewhere to dispose of their disposable income." And so it goes, from entity to entity. Everybody wants what taxes bring but each entity feels the tax burden on them is unfair, should not be increased, and if anything, should be lowered.

Then there are the golf courses. Some clever lobbyists in the year two thousand and "fore" crafted a provision and quietly slipped it into an assessor's bill that was sent it to the legislature. The provision would revalue the golf course property and lower taxes a little. How little? Assessed values changed from $ 25,000 per acre to less than $3,000 per acre. Remember, it was during a time that property values in Nevada were climbing like skyrockets in flight - a real afternoon delight.

And the taxes that were due on the golf courses? Quicker than you can say, "Meet me at the 19th hole for a drink," taxes on one of the parcels on a private hotel golf course dropped from more than $ 5,000 to $ 13 and change. Another parcel at a different private golf course got its taxes out of the sand trap - $ 134,000 in 2004 to $ 72,000 for the current year. The rates contributed to a huge budget divot of the state's $ 450 million shortfall.

The provision, it seems was, was drafted by Senator N. O'Tme and Assemblyman I. Dunno since nobody can remember who sponsored it. But the 60 or so golf courses in the Valley of the Dollars and double that number statewide have benefited by not having to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes compared to previous years. Lobbyists for the golf industry claim the tax breaks are necessary or the golfers will flee to Arizona and Florida to seek their par. That's like saying gasoline is cheaper in another state so that's the place to buy it.

Then there is the "obsolescence factor," a complicated formula that is designed for golf courses that shut down in winter months to only pay taxes on the equivalent of the months they are open. Even though the calculation is designed specifically for winter weather courses, the loophole can be applied to all courses allowing them to further eschew their tax burden. Hole in one? Sounds like some legislators had a hole in the head when they voted for this one.

A little blogging music Maestro... "18 Holes" by Gus Van Sant.

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Cuisine - Friday's Leftovers

2008-01-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

Another Week That Was

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow? The giant International Consumer Electronics Show is winding down. Upwards of 140,000 geeks and geekettes from around the techno world descended on Las Vegas for the annual showcase of all things new in technology. Among the 140,000 were Microsoft chair Bill Gates who played the opening act as he has for years, General Motors Chair Rick Wagoner, and honchos from just about anything remotely (pun intended) connected with the sounds, sights, feels, tastes, or smells of technology. The show has grown so large - only one has eclipsed it - Comdex which crashed along with the techno sector of the stock market early this century. But are the techno geeks victims of their own genius?

Advances in technology have allowed hotels to track and predict the number of rooms that will be occupied on a given night. That has result in occupancy-driven rates for every room. That is, the same room that might rent for $ 49 on a Sunday of a slow week, might rent for ten times that amount on a busy weekend. Hoteliers call that tracking. CES attendees call it gouging. They are threatening to pick up their stereo and go home and never return. Some locals shudder at the possibility. Others say, "Good riddance. They are cheap and don't tip."

Hut, Hut... Busted! The principal at Green Valley High School may have never entered a science fair but he's discovered how to become a lightning rod. He plans to randomly drug test athletes at the school. The proposal has brought mixed reactions. Many parents have taken up the cry of a recent movie, "Yeah, Baby!" But some students, especially athletes, have wondered aloud, "Why us?" The ACLU has weighed in as well. They contend that while random drug testing of athletes is constitutional, they wonder what consequences of a dirty test would be. Stay tuned.

Hit a jackpot to his the sack: Remember the song named for Van Gogh's "Starry Starry Night?" A bed maker has used the same name for their new reason to have you never have to leave the bedroom. Starry Night Sleep Technology was updated the two-bit magic fingers bed to one that does everything but pay your monthly bills. And those bills will increase if you buy this sleeping beauty. It can cost up to $ 50,000 and does not even promise a good night's rest - of course, you might be too worried about paying for it to rest.

The bed has anti-snoring technology built in as well as mattress adjusting technology, individual heat controls - from 68-117 degrees, the obligatory massage, breathing and body movement monitors, and will call 911 if it detects you're about to kick the bucket. It also includes an iPod docking station, surround sound, and a projection system to show movies. And, you ain't read nothing yet. It also includes a "love button" that can lower window shades, dim lights, and play preselected music. It has other features, "too numerous to name." But can it predict who will win the presidential election?

A little blogging music Maestro.... the Eurythmics, "Sweet Dreams Are Made of This."

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas le gusta Hillary?

2008-01-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

Not so Very Culinary

I'll give this to folks who want to get elected to the presidency: their campaign managers can be very creative and they as well as their campaign workers seem to be indefatigable. Hours before the New Hampshire results came pouring in pundits had Hillary pilloried, down and out, stepped on, lied to, cheated on, and treated like dirt. If your name was Hillary, you were bound to be hurt. But a funny thing happened on the way to the vote calculations... she won, albeit a narrow victory.

All of a sudden the idiots who were managing her campaign became geniuses. And the pundits who, of course, could never be wrong, decided it was because she had cried and become more human to women. Or it was because New Hampshire women were better educated than the farm girls in Iowa, or wait, no, it was the race factor. Ah yes, these are the same types of people who can always predict what will happen in the stock market AFTER it happens.

After the New Hampshire perk-up Hillary's strategists looked at their next challenge: the powerful Culinary Union in Las Vegas had thrown its support to the "O" man. That is important because the Culinary Union is made up primarily of Latinos and African Americans, a constituency that had historically been a core of Clinton voters. But Hillary Hillary didn't worry. Hillary didn't cry or scurry. She looked at her options, bad and good. And took her brood to the neighborhood. She made a cross country trek to the desert and with a better diet and more exercise took a brief tour of parts Las Vegas rarely seen by other tourists.

Hillary had a Democratic elected official from the neighborhood near Eastern Avenue and Washington Boulevard, one inhabited by plenty of minorities, walk her door to door, then she had a rally at one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in town, Lindo Michoacan. The only problem with the plan was that none of the Gringo newscasters were able to pronounce the restaurant's name properly. That aside, it seems to have been a coup for the Senator from New York. Or not.

Local Demo politico Rory Reid (scion of Senator Harry) and Congresswoman Shelly Berkley have tossed their support to Senator Clinton. But the Culinary Union is probably the most stalwart group in Las Vegas. Anybody who cleans a toilet, washes a sheet, cooks at a buffet, serves a meal, etc. etc. etc. is a member of that union. The good Senator from Illinois plans to visit the Valley of the Dollars today to embrace union members. So was Hillary's attempt at busting the union's solidarity commitment to BarackO successful? Ask the pundits. They might be right. Or not.

A little blogging music Maestro... How about "I Want You to Want Me" by Cheap Trick.

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Happenings

2008-01-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

Forty Million Tourists Can't Be Wrong

Las Vegas is the Entertainment Capital of the world. Visitors are the lifeblood that drives the economy of the Valley of the Dollars. Many tourists visit regularly. Some even have second homes locally. Although Laughlin is considered Snowbird haven, Las Vegas has its share of seasonal residents. But many transform themselves from visitors to residents. How many? Best estimates are that about 5,000 - 6,000 new residents arrive in the valley each month. That adds about 100,000 newbies every 18 months or so and that has kept Las Vegas at the front of the pack in terms of new residents for 19 of the past 20 years. There is no slowdown in sight.

Residents come to Las Vegas because there are jobs - mostly in the hospitality business but construction is still a lively occupation. Six new hotels are on the docket including the Palazzo, a sister to the Venetian which had a soft opening a week ago. Not all the action is on the Strip, though. Palace Stations $ 700,000,000 Aliante Station is scheduled to open later this year providing adding 1,700 new jobs. Along Boulder Highway the Eastside Cannery, which was recently sold to an Aussie outfit, will open this year. A farmer from Illinois was considering buying some Strip property in the 1950s. He ran the sand through his fingers and laughed at the salesman. "What the Hell do you think you could grow in this?" he asked. The salesman answered with one word, "Money."

Back on the Strip The Donald will open Trump's Tower later this year - his initial foray into the REAL gaming and entertainment business. In 2009 MGM plans to open the $ 1 billion "M" hotel, resort, spa, and casino further south on the Strip and MGM's $ 7.7 billion City Center is scheduled to open in Late 2009.

According to Deutsch Bank Securities, within the next four years 18 new major construction projects are scheduled at a collective $ 44 billion. Economists say that translates to 40,000 new rooms and 100,000 new jobs. Hold on to your hats. It looks like the E-ticket ride in Las Vegas continues at an unprecedented pace.

But not only residents move into this fine community. Some the business who are following the lead of The Donald and taking Horace Greeley's advice literally include AGO restaurant which plans to move open a branch of its popular LA restaurant to the Hard Rock. From Miami's South Beach in Florida, Opium Group brings its signature brand to Las Vegas with the opening of Prive' and the Living Room to Planed Hollywood, and Chef Kerry Simon opens Simon's at the Palms.

A little blogging music Maestro.... one more time for "Viva Las Vegas."

Dr. Forgot

Vegas Follies

2008-01-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

Only in Las Vegas?

Hear Ye, Hear Ye. Court's in Session: In the old days when the Mafia ruled Las Vegas a saying often heard was, "An honest judge is one who will stay bought." Whether or not it was true those days are long gone, but not the follies from the bench. One judge was castigated for sealing the record of a fellow judge's divorce case. Another judge has decided not to run for reelection. No reason given but allegations have been swirling regarding possible misuse of campaign funds. Then there is the forever law clerk who ran for office and won.

Her term was still in its infancy when charges were made against her and she was temporarily removed - although still kept her hundred grand salary. The charges recently have become official and they include: looking for information in all the wrong places, the judge improperly contacted a family court hearing master to get the goods on an attorney who appeared before her, fell asleep during at least three trials, engaged in improper contact with deliberating jurors, assigned herself two unqualified people to act as bodyguards, attempted to breach computer security in order to read employee emails, and made false statements to the media. And we've not even addressed the sexual harassment allegations. The judge is still suspended... and still drawing a hundred grand salary.

Judge-ment Day Cometh: Despite the number of judges in and around Las Vegas who are having their own trials, the filing period for those who would wear black robes recently opened. Of the 40 seats in the Valley of the Dollars that will be seeking bench warmers, more than 50 have applied for anointment. And there are 10 more shopping - uh, I mean filing days until the courtroom door slams shut.

Reading, Writing, and Economics: Everybody has money problems these days, it seems. With the housing market in the tank it is no wonder that tax revenues are down. Our governor has hit on a solution with the battle cry, "Take money from the kids. Full speed ahead!" The little nippers are not required to give up their piggy banks, but the state wants at least 96 million of its budgeted dollars back. Cuts will probably occur in kindergarten (the littlest kids are easiest to take candy from), and remediation programs.

The Guv had said that state school districts would be exempted from the cuts. Liar, liar, pants on fire. One senator suggested the unkind cuts are unnecessary. The state has a so-called "Rainy Day Fund" of $ 267 million. Baby, the rain must fall, so tap the rainy day fund says the state senator. The superintendent claims that if the day is not rainy enough to tap the fund, at least count the $ 67 million that was not required because the school district came in below enrollment projections. It must be true: figures don't lie but liars figure.

A little blogging music Maestro... how about "Rainy Days and Mondays Always Get Me Down."

Dr. Forgot

Gates to Las Vegas

2008-01-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas Happenings

All Hail the Techies: They keep on coming - a flood, a plethora, a locust-like stream of people using every means of transport are coming to town. 300,000 New Years celebrants have returned to their homes and have been replaced by 140,000 Consumer Electronics Show attendees. They were led Sunday by Elvis and his guitar.... well, Elvis was played by King William of Gates and the guitar was played by an X-Box. The Gates Man played the big room as well as the other King, Midnight Idol, or Sigfried and Roy. Ok, he didn't make anything disappear, except perhaps anxiety over the next decade of technology, he did not play multiple instruments, at least not musical ones, and he didn't toss his scarves into the outstretched hands of crooning women. But he wowed his audience just the same.

His performance marked a decade as the headliner of the CES. Future performances might be less frequent as he soon will change his focus from all things Microsoft to philanthropic endeavors. He reflected on the success of technology's first decade and teased the audience with peeks into the technological future. Microsoft's sync technology for music and talk while in the comfort of your car is just around next model year's corner. Hollywood will come to the home theater (uh, the media room) room through the X-Box and allow for more interaction. Voice recognition and touch screens larger than life are but a few of the future ways of life. Bill Gates has become our Jules Verne.

Nugget Becomes More Golden: The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, one of the stalwarts among the Fremont Street Experience, has once again reinvented itself. I watched in the 1980s when then new owner Steve Wynn personally sat behind the wheel of a vehicle and crashed a wrecking ball into a Nugget wall as a symbolic gesture to tear down the old and replace it with a newer, better, more glamorous property. The Hotel-wrecker has since gone on to grander designs and the Golden Nugget has changed hands a few times.

Present owners have announced another expansion and makeover of the property to the tune of $ 60 million. A multi-purpose events center to be called the Grand and expanded gaming floor will complement the Red Sushi, a new restaurant and an even grander night life venue will be called, what else? The Gold Diggers. The dance floor will be bordered by bartenders to cater to the whims of the movers and shakers on the dance floor. The nightspot opens up on an over sized balcony to give party goers a grand 180 degree view of the Fremont Street Experience. Something about the Nugget seems to attract designers of vision.

A little blogging music Maestro... How about Ian Brown's "Golden Gaze."

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Weekend Wrapup

2008-01-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

All the News That's Fit to Blog

The Geeks Are Coming: The geeks are here! Today begins the annual Las Vegas homage to geekdom. Some 140,000 loyal followers of all things geek will bow at the alter of technology and show secrets that will further make our lives better - or at least different. The King of all Geeks, His Majesty William of Gates will present the keynote chatter tonight that will no doubt be backed by more than just bells and whistles. Stay tuned to this blog for a summary of what new stuff the Gatester will show and predict."

We Want our Money Back: Buyer beware. It might come as a surprise to some investors that real estate is not guaranteed to increase in value regardless of economic conditions. Many of those getting bitten in the wallet right now had dollar signs in their eyes a few years ago when they bought spec homes and properties hoping to continue to ride the wave of inflated housing prices in the Valley of the Dollars. Some buyers are not only above the Strip, but are over their heads.

Earlier in the decade when land began to become scarce and buildings began to reach for the sky, a new concept was brought to town - the condo-hotel. The idea is to own a high rise condo that overlooks the lights and glamor of the Strip and rent it out to tourists. The hucksters who sold the units allegedly painted very pretty pictures and became prophets of profits which have not materialized. Their penthouse is sending them to the poorhouse. "Foul!" cried the investors and thus far about 40 have sued the company for misrepresenting profits. Can you say, "What you see is what you get?"

Lost in the Translation: Ever tried to tell a joke in a foreign language? Too often the punch line is lost in the translation. Other times innuendos and double entendres just don't make it in the other language. Such was the allegation of an insult at a pre-Christmas show attended locally by a large group of Iranian-Americans. A featured artist made a comment in Farsi, the local language, that some in the audience found offensive. Others said those offended didn't understand the context of the remark. Still, the question remains, did the Farsi folks parse the program to pillory the presenter, or was it just a farce? I have no clue. I'm sticking to English.... "A Rabbi, a priest, and a minister..."

Flooding in Fernley, Nevada: Dateline Fernly Nevada.... Congratulations to the news staff at CNN who, despite their east coast studio location, were able to properly pronounce Nevada (the "a" sounds like the "a" in cash. not like the "a" in "aaaaw, busted"). Some are calling the bursting of the levee "Little Katrina." Probably a good analogy since nobody has seen hide nor hair of FEMA. It will be interesting to see if any of the presidential candidates who arrive for the January 19 Nevada caucus will tour Fernley.

A little blogging music Maestro... How about Brittany Spears, "You Drive Me Crazy."

Dr. Forgot

Las Vegas Electronics

2008-01-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

Bright Lights, Big City

One of the huge advantages of living in Las Vegas is that it all comes to you. Las Vegans don't have to go to either coast to see the biggest stars entertain, or to see Broadway productions such as Mama Mia, or to witness a college football bowl game or the National Rodeo Finals, or enjoy the benefits of tourism dollars pumped into the economy to ease the tax burden on locals. But one of my favorite reasons for living in Las Vegas is the number of conventions that meet here. And where better? Groups as obtuse as the Association of Owners of Funeral Homes or as mainstream as Consumer Electronics Show all come to town for their conventions.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority keep space costs to a minimum in an effort to draw as many conventions as often as possible. Additionally, Las Vegas passed Chicago and Orlando in room count and now has more hotel rooms than anywhere else. In fact, 14 of the largest 15 hotels in the world are in Las Vegas. The granddaddy of all conventions in the pre-TSC days (pre-Tech Stock Collapse) was COMDEX which grew to some 300,000 visitors per year. These days the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) is the largest with more than 140,000 attendees.

CES convention attendees are beginning to straggle into town this weekend as the show begins Sunday. The big draws once again will be the new gadgets and the old Gates - Bill Gates, one of the many stars to appear in Las Vegas who traditionally opens the show. For the tenth consecutive year Microsoft Man will reveal cutting edge products and discuss the future of electronics. The CEO of General Motors will also speak. Vendors at the show will unveil their i-pod lookalikes, i-phone lookalikes, and i anything and everything else. Past shows have introduced many of the products that are taken for granted today such as GPS, HDTV, plasmas, CDs, as well as anything digital or lithium-powered.

So what's new this year? Flying cars? Maybe not but you can bet your bottom i-phone that alternative fuel-powered automobiles will be featured along with any other new item that addresses one's sense of sound or vision. The difference between CES and other conventions is that by the very nature of electronics, not only do the masses come to the mountain, but the Mountain (in this case Mount Las Vegas) is beamed to the masses. CES features Las Vegas in every medium in far greater numbers than does any other convention.

So what's a fella (or gal) to see in this cavalcade of electronics? Not much. Just about 1.8 million the highest definition television screens surrounded by stereophonic sound, TV cameras and at least one reporter for every square foot of space all trying to get a different slant. Tens of thousands of new items will grace the floors spread over at least three convention center venues, hundreds of semis toting items to and from the show and thousands of workers with hundreds of boom lifts, delivery vehicles and electric carts to do the setup and takedown one week later.The very thought of the magnitude of this event makes me dizzy. A little blogging music Maestro... How about Blood, Sweat, and Tears "Spinning Wheel?"

Dr. Forgot

Leftovers into the New Year

2008-01-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Snapping up Snippets

Up Up And Away: Americans are a curious lot when it comes to flying. Over the past decade real tickets have given way to e-tickets, fares have increased, food service has all but disappeared, employees have disappeared (have you checked in at a kiosk lately?), flight crews have become surly, cops have been added, lines are longer, planes are more crowded and arrive later, and the employees who are left are overworked, underpaid, and anxiously awaiting retirement - hoping that their company does not join dozens of others already in bankruptcy.But we keep flying in ever increasing numbers. Atlanta continues as the busiest airport in the US with nearly a million flights annually. Hence the old saying, "If you're going to Hell you have to go through Atlanta," still holds true. Las Vegas had fewer flights but more people aboard. Chicago's O'Hare and Dallas Fort Worth, and LAX are also among the dizziest and busiest.

Blow 'em up, knock 'em down, build 'em up: Las Vegas has a history of blowing up and replacing hotels. Dunes. Boom! Bellagio. Sands. Boom! Venetian. Castaways. Boom! Mirage. Mirage parking lot. Boom! Treasure Island. Desert Inn. Boom! Wynn. And the booming beat goes on. Sometimes buildings just divide and expand like so many amoebas. The old Nevada Palace on Boulder Highway has blossomed into a Cannery that is such an awesome blossom that an Aussie bought it. The Hard Rock is bursting its seams to the tune of a $ 750 million 950 room addition and the Venetian recently spawned Palazzo. The building boom has changed Las Vegas from Little Lulu to Baby Huey.

Pssst... Hey buddy, wanna buy something?: Retailers are not happy about flat sales this holiday season. Sales are off a couple of percent compared to last year's. What's a marketer to do? In the spirit of making every holiday more commercial some retailers have figured out that Hispanics still have loose change in their pockets so several campaigns have started to target shoppers for the "Three Kings" celebration of the Magi which is celebrated January 6. It is surprising the retailers have not yet figured out that Russian, Greek, and Serbian Orthodox church members follow the Gregorian calendar and celebrate Christmas January 7. But I'm sure they will. After which they can boldly announce, "Only 36 shopping days left until Valentines. Day"

Da place for wise guys: If pink flamingos are soooo south Florida, what is soooo Vegas? Elvis? Garish homes decorated in "Early Pit Boss?" Neon and more neon? Yes to all of the above, but move over chic shtick, there's a new attraction coming to town. Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman is robbing the post office. Well, not actually. The old downtown post offices closed a few years ago and Oscar has proposed turning it into a Mob Museum. It is logical. If Washington D.C. can have a spy museum (which they do), why not a mob museum in the Entertainment Capital of the World?

A little blogging music Maestro.... anything by Guns and Roses.

Dr. Forgot

7-7-7 You're a Winner! And a Loser

2008-01-01T20:53:00.000-08:00

Ka-Ching... ker plop

Californians are the biggest liars in Las Vegas. Years ago when I first arrived in Las Vegas as a young, struggling schoolteacher I took a second job as a taxi driver and later as my wardrobe improved, a limousine driver. Whenever people would get into my cab or limo I'd always chat with them - "Where are you from? How are the casinos treating you?" etc. Most fares were from California. That is not a surprise as more than half of the visitors to the Valley of the Dollars come from San Andreas by the Sea. What surprised me most is that they would nearly always answer, "I broke even."

I'm here to tell you that if every visitor to a casino broke even, Las Vegas would still be more desert and gulches than concrete and neon. Of course, SOMEBODY has to win a jackpot occasionally. That's one of the things that keeps visitors returning to our oasis. With that in mind, the favorite of all government agencies, the IRS reminds us this time of year to read their Bulletin 419, "Gambling Income and Expenses."

A CPA friend of mine tells me that ALL income is taxable, even the change that you pick up in the parking lot because your kid is too lazy to bend over. Your kid might be lazy but he might not be so stupid since he will not have to declare the parking lot change as income. Although the casual gambler rarely reports casino or track or even internet gaming winnings, the IRS requires it. Three sevens might turn out to be lemons. Be careful how loudly you yell, "Bingo!"

The IRS allows you to deduct losses as long as those deductions don't exceed your winnings. And they want you to keep a log if you plan to deduct. No, not those tallys that casinos provide you. You know, the ones that have disclaimers printed on them? Nope, Uncle Sam wants YOU to keep detailed logs of how often, how much, when and where. Kind of takes the fun out of impulse gambling, but the more information you can provide the better your chances you'll be believed when the tax man cometh.

Want to be a professional gambler? That doesn't mean you place a bet on the Raiders for your brother-in-law. The IRS has recently established a designation of "professional gambler" for those whose frequent gambling activity serves as their primary source of income. The pros get to deduct related expenses such as hotel stays, car rentals, etc. But most gamblers are simply weekend warriors or day trippers upon whom Lady Luck occasionally smiles. If you fall into that category, the IRS wants you to share that information. And when your auditor asks you how you did at the tables, don't say you broke even. He'll know you're lying even of you're not from California.

A little blogging music Maestro... How about The Gambler, Luck Be A Lady, or even Camptown Races?

Dr. Forgot

Weekend Update

2007-12-29T11:11:00.000-08:00

Catching up on Minutia

Who do buy? MGM sales of shares are those some buyers do buy. Sometimes the sales are as sweet as dew buy. Other times selling is what share owners do by. But a recent large purchase made the SEC and other gaming company watchers ask, "Are those the folks from Dubai who do buy MGM stocks?" The sentence might be a tongue twister but the purchase by Dubai investors of nearly half a billion dollars of MGM stock qualifies the investors for a seat on the MGM Board of Directors. That milestone came as a shock to many gaming insiders, not to mention some folks from Dubai where gaming is illegal. There is no truth to the rumor that MGM placed restrictions on the sale of their stock - such as the ability to spell MGM backwards.

Slip Sliding Away: The line from the once popular song, "The nearer you get to your destination the more you keep slip sliding away," seems to capture the sales figures of new home sales nationally as well as in Las Vegas. While new home sales locally are down more than 40% compared to the same month last year, housing prices have not taken that severe a fall. Although those numbers might convince so many Chicken Littles that not only sales but the sky is falling, there is another side to the coin. The only people who point out that a falling market presents opportunities for those in a position to buy seem to be economics professors.

Make it so: Remember Data in the old Star Trek series? He was the android who just wanted to be a real boy even more than Pinocchio. But sadly, unlike Pinocchio he remained a "droid." In several episodes of Star Trek Data wore a poker visor. A Trekkie bought the visor for 6 grand at an officially sanctioned auction. But when he tracked down the actor who played Data for a signature, the real life actor told the hapless collector it's a fake. I smell a lawsuit here.

All Things to All People - Not: Wal-Mart. The place where you can buy nearly anything from HDTVs to lunch no longer offers online movie downloads. As shocking as that might seem to the millions of Americans who are on the edge of their La-Z-Boys, folks who want to rent flix will have to try Netflix or one of its competitors. If Wal-Mart is your huckleberry for DVD rentals, I hope you're already stocked up for New Year's Eve. Otherwise you might be singing, "Should Auld old movies be forgot..."

Gimmee a Break: Tourism folks who talk about New Year's eve in Las Vegas predict that crowds will break 300,000 this year setting another attendance record. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority thinks that number will pump $ 212 million of non-gaming revenue into the economy. There are 10 new clubs in which to party hearty and few new rooms available but they're priced slightly higher than last year's. If you are a steely-eyed gambler you might wait until the last minute to see if the price drops - but if they all sell out you could be sleeping in your car.

Dr. Forgot

What's Happening New Years 2008?

2007-12-28T21:51:00.000-08:00

Vegas Wins Hearts in Diamonds With Clubs

Last New Year's Eve celebration in Las Vegas saw well over a quarter million revelers singing, dancing, hugging, and kissing to gamble on a great 2007. This year the trains, planes, and automobiles promise to bring more than 300,000 to try to outdo last year. With all those folks in town, where's a body to party??? Two main public venues will be the Downtown Fremont Street Experience - a seven-block party that begins at Main Street under the dazzling Viva Vision light show canopy, and continues beyond Las Vegas Boulevard to Seventh Street. Two blocks have been added to last year's five-block venue. The intimate setting includes the front doors of the Golden Nugget, Golden Gate, Four Queens, Fitzgeralds, Plaza, and El Cortez and several casinos.

The other and much larger venue will be the famed Las Vegas Strip, which will be closed to motor traffic between Russel Road and Sahara Avenue, a distance of four miles. But most of the action will probably be from Flamingo Road to Spring Mountain - a bout a mile that includes Paris, Ballys, Bellagio, Caesars, Flamingo, Mirage, Treasure Island, Wynn, Venetian and it's new cousin scheduled for a soft opening this weekend, Palazzo.

But if your tastes on New Years eve favor clubbing several new ones join the fracas. The Palazzo boasts the 40/40 modeled after its sister club in NYC, the CatHouse and LAX at the Luxor, Planet Hollywood's Prive and Triq, Tryst or Blush at the Wynn, Body English at the Hard Rock, Jet at the Mirage, Pure at Caesars, Tao at the Venetian, Mix at Mandalay Bay, Rain, Moon, Playboy Club, and the Ghost Bar at the Palms, Risque at Paris, MGM's Tabu or Studio 54, and Tangerine at the TI (Treasure Island). Did I miss something? Probably, but you've just got to be here to writhe in the ambiance.

Lest you feel worried that with all the action going on in the Clubs, girls getting Diamonds, and winning guys Hearts, that the Spades are absent suits in the casinos, fear not. As the revelers revel outside and the clubbers club inside, and tipsy couples exchange diamonds and hearts, spades will be dealt with the other suits in a business as usual fashion inside the Four Queens and all other casinos. The Big Wheel will keep on rolling and some gamblers will win - or lose the hard way.

After the fireworks are fired and all the booze has been imbibed (no bottles or cans allowed outside, thank you very much), and the revelers have all unraveled, and the sun is about to rise in the desert for the first time in 2008, the cleanup crew will traverse Fremont Street and the Strip and do an amazing job making both areas spic and span before the first wave of tourists stagger out of their beds. Tis a sight to behold. Only in Las Vegas.

A little blogging music Maestro... How about "Viva Las Vegas!"

Dr. Forgot

We're Number One! (again)

2007-12-27T21:22:00.000-08:00

Nineteen of 20... Not Bad

Ok, I admit it. Although I'm not a member of the Chamber of Commerce or on the board of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, I was bummed last year when I discovered that after a run of 19 consecutive years, Nevada had ceded the title of fastest growing state in the union. To Arizona, no less. Silver Staters felt stepped on, lied to, cheated on and treated like dirt. How could the census takers have given our long-held title away? Could they have missed somebody in the nation's fourth largest state? Perhaps a few aliens living in Area 51. However, this year, despite housing slowdowns and a near recession nationwide, the Valley of the Dollars and other areas of Nevada have regained the title. (add noisemakers here)

Between the two Julys - 06 and 07, Nevada's population grew at a rate of 2.9% to 2.5 million souls while the second place Arizonies grew at a paltry 2.8% according the Census Bureau. Nevadan's take this stuff seriously enough to plan a gaggle of Las Vegas resorts to open beginning in 2009. Even Ivana's ex - the guy with the funny hair has seen the light in the desert and is building a Tower to Trump all others. With the new building and the jobs they create new residents who will continue to flock to the Entertainment Capital should turn the housing slump upside down.

Let's talk for a minute about the so-called housing slump. Historically Las Vegas has had cheap housing, especially when compared to the Earthquake State to the west, reasonably-priced utilities, and decent wages. A couple of years ago housing prices started to boom. It was not unheard of for a development to begin selling homes based on a few models, and buyers selling the homes before they were completed at profits over six figures. Mortgage money flowed easily as "values" continued to increase. That brought in speculators who bought multiple houses with plans to "flip" them. And they did, until the bubble popped and the Ponzi scheme stopped with a few residents and many speculators holding the bag - uh mortgage.

But for resident homeowners of 5 years or more, many saw their home values double, triple, and more. Now that the big city pundits are bemoaning the great sub-prime debacle, they tell us that the average home has slipped in value about 6%, but in California, Phoenix, and Las Vegas the decline could exceed ten percent. HELLO!! It doesn't take a mathematics Phi Beta Kappa to figure that if your has house doubled or tripled in value, then loses 10% of that value, that fact does not send you directly to the soup kitchen without passing Go or collecting $ 200.00. The folks who are hurt are those who bought at the peak of the market - mostly speculators. Save your crying towels for those whose homes were destroyed by Katrina and those who did not have a 4-5 year run-up in prices.

What's the big deal with states such as Nevada, Texas, and Arizona growing in population while others such as Ohio, Michigan, and Rhode Island losing? Well for one thing, the U.S. House of Representatives and electoral votes can be affected. Texas will probably gain seats, Ohio will likely lose seats, and Nevada, Arizona and Utah may well grow enough to gain another. A little blogging music Maestro.... How about Barbara Streisand's "People."

Dr. Forgot

The Morning After

2007-12-26T22:54:00.000-08:00

Vegas After Christmas

Twas the day after Christmas,
And throughout the Strip,
All of the wise guys,
And their molls who were hip.

Walked through casinos,
And into the Malls,
Ignoring Roulette Wheels,
And other games calls.

They hoped they'd find bargains,
Their glassed-eyes were bleary.
The girlfriends with no jewelery,
Were disgusted and teary.

Etc. etc. etc. There have been so many spinoffs on "The Night Before Christmas" that I thought I'd bring you up to speed on what things look like in Las Vegas the day after. And they look pretty much like Dubuque, Iowa or Winston-Salem, North Carolina, except for the leftover tourists who have not yet departed. That and the casinos and the buffets, and the all the things that make the Valley of the Dollars a unique place to live.

December used to be dead time in the old days. Shows went dark and performers went home to visit with their families. Then some clever marketer thought, "Why don't we take these slow times and bring in some action?" And before you could say, "Yippie Kai-o" the National Finals Rodeo moved from its cramped space in what New Yorkers call the Southwest, to the real Southwest. December has become the real cowboy month with pickup trucks and big belt buckles and lots of hats.

Years ago the December holidays would be used as a "thank you" for locals, especially cab drivers, culinary workers, and the people who make this giant carnival wheel turn. Hotels would provide comps, 2 for one shows, and many other perks and all you had to do is to prove you were a local. In fact, one year, the local school teachers were trying to decide who would represent them - the union or the teachers organization. The union brought in a university - the first ever besides UNLV, and the teachers organization cut deals with the hotels to comp teachers to food and beverages as well as shows. The result? Free food and shows won out over university credits.

This week the community is gearing up for the giant new year's eve celebration. Some 300,000 visitors will come from around the world to celebrate. Local legend says it is second in size only to that ball-dropping experience in New York, complete with fireworks, blocking off the Strip, back-to-back and belly-to-belly crowds, and lots of booze and entertainment.

Let's all raise a cup in hopes that 2008 is a better year. Are you ready for the blogging music maestro? No, I don't think it is too early to start to practice "Auld Lang Sayne."

Dr. Forgot