June Is Busting Out All Over In Vegas

In a few minutes it will be June in Las Vegas. Tomorrow, on June 1, 2007 the thermometer is bound to exceed the century mark. Tonight the full moon is blue. I don't know if this portends good or bad luck for the ofttimes superstitious Vegas visitor.

Lots of people who don't live here think it is hot all year round. Not true, we are living in the high desert, and temperatures do fluctuate depending on the season.

Las Vegas Weather & Average Temperatures

Las Vegas weather is usually quite nice with less than 45 days per year with rainfall. Summer temperatures soar to over 100 ºF although it rarely feels this hot as the humidity is very low. As a precaution visitors are advised to drink plenty of water in the summer months (ice cubes don't count) particularly if you will be doing a lot of outdoor activities. Las Vegas is situated in a desert so the tendency is for daytime temperatures to be high with the evenings cooling down rapidly. Sweaters or jackets are often required inside casinos in the summer months due to air conditioning. Although rare, Las Vegas has been known to have snow in the winter months but not in any quantity that last for more than a few hours. In the Grand Canyon, which is located about 300 miles from Las Vegas the temperatures are generally very pleasant but somewhat cooler. It is a good idea to take a light jacket when visiting the Grand Canyon as the temperatures can be chilly even in the summer months. Check the table below for the average temperatures for each month in Las Vegas.

The following shows each month's average high and low temperature (degrees F)

January   58  32
February  61  37
March     70  43
April     78  50
May       88  50
June      99  68
July      107 77
August    103 75
September 96  67
October   80  53
November  66  41
December  57  35

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Above is from Off To Vegas Site

Blue June Mooon!

Look At Tonight's Full Moon

BLUE MOON & JUPITER

According to folklore, tonight's full Moon over North America is a "Blue Moon" because it is the second full Moon in a calendar month. If you go outside to look at the Blue Moon, you'll see Jupiter as its companion. All night long, the giant planet will be located right beside the Moon. You will see the bright pair with the naked eye, or for a real treat, scan them with a backyard telescope. The moons of Jupiter, lunar mountains and craters, and the Great Red Spot are surprisingly easy to see.

Above is from Maryannaville Blog

Michael Jackson On Sale In Vegas

I could not invent this stuff, let alone write anything meaningful without wondering if Never Land has come to the Neon City Of Dreams, resulting in a kind of penultimate unreality.

From the Guernsey's auction site:

From modest Indiana beginnings, they leaped onto the world's stage and music has never been the same. Annoucing one of the most exciting auctions in Pop Culture history...The Jacksons Auction. For the first time, thousands of items from Michael, Janet, La Toya, Jermaine and the rest of the Jackson Family will be sold at a remarkable auction being held live at Las Vegas' Hard Rock Hotel. For those unable to attend, absentee bidding will be avaiable by internet, fax and telephone. Contact Guernsey's to order the terrific Auction Catalogue or learn more about the event.

Follow this link to get a list of references from Google.

Las Vegas Housing Bubble Bust - Site Of The Day

The above pictured house in Las Vegas is listed for $465,950 "Closing Costs Paid" and "No Payments For 3 Years". That is unheard of. I don't know if the seller wants a large down payment. It is definitely a buyer's market out there. I don't know if it pays to keep waiting for better bargains in the future. Nobody does.

The site of the day is the "Las Vegas Market" topic thread on the Housing Doom Housing Bubble Blog.

Definitely worth looking at if only for the graphs!

Memorial Day Weekend Local Fun In Las Vegas

Memorial Day Weekend in Las Vegas

May 25, 2007 09:21 PM from KLAS TV Las Vegas:

Memorial Day weekend is the "unofficial" start to summer, and Las Vegas Valley residents are getting ready to celebrate. Despite record high gas prices, travel is expected to be up on the road and in the skies.

The AAA motor club estimates more than 38 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles or more from home. About 84-percent of holiday travelers are expected to drive to their destination. More than 330,000 Nevadans are expected to hit the road this weekend and they will pay a new record gas price of around $3.27 a gallon.

Airports around the nation will be busy. About 11-percent of the holiday travelers will fly, depsite an increase in airfare. McCarran International Airport is expecting overcrowding in parking areas.

Check out links to some of the events happening around the valley:

• Free Rides on the Monorail for Locals



• 19th Annual Snow Mountain Pow Wow



• Remembrance Services at Annual Memorial Day Event



• Visit the Springs Preserve



• Community Events on KNPR.org



• Las Vegas Area Public Pools Listing



• Fun on Lake Mead & Lake Mojave



• Summer Fun at Lake Mead National Park



• Find the Perfect Recipes From Appetizers to Desserts

On Monday, May 28th all federal, state, county and city offices will be closed. Schools and the U.S. Postal Service will also be closed.

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Memorial Day: History, Timeline, Battle Maps, Video & More

Memorial Day Weekend Club Scene In Las Vegas

What's Happening Now!
The very latest post from the talented local personality Xtine from Global Peace GrooVes Christine - she is a very knowledgeable insider on the local Vegas club scene, and nightlife.

 

 

 

 

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• Club Rubber will have their annual Summer of Love party @ The Palms.
  
  Three day's of dancing, dj's, fashion and costumes, all in the "Spirit of the Summer of Love".
  
  For people who have never been to a Club Rubber party let me assure you it has thousands of devoted attendees who are spirited and motivated to participate in the culture by making grand costume gestures while dancing the days and nights away.



• Moon and The Playboy club kick off the party on Friday May 25th with: The Funkler, Beej, 4 Reel, Danny Love, Donald Glaude, and Felix da Housecat.



• Sat. May 26 Poolside and inside of RAIN:
  
  DJ P, Adam Rush, 4 Reel, Danny Love, CB Shaw, Charles Feelgood, Eddie Halliwell.
  
  Sunday, May 27th CB Shaw, Yvonne Black, Boris M.D., Portia Surreal, Darling Nikki, Baby Anne, Starkillers, Dave Aude, Cedric Gervais.



• Erick Morillo will perform at TAO Sunday May 27th.



• Sharam of Deep Dish will perform for Jet's 2nd annual MAIN ROOM EVENT Sunday May 27th.

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Oh, I went to the opening of Sunset Beach, the after-party for Tao Beach, which is on Sunday. The Beach at Tao is open daily, but there is an extra amount of time to party on Sunday evening.

It was fabulous: great food, drinks, view, the pools are lovely, the servers are dressed in cute bikinis with little red sarongs, the place is decorated with Tao's signature accents, the sound system is fabulous, there is a gentle breeze up on the roof of The Venetian.

I was there with some friends who I have been eager to introduce to one another and an old friend stopped by to surprise me.

I give Tao Beach the must attend/ see.

(way to go Chad Saunders!)

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For other info. about clubbing in Las Vegas visit the free local weekly newspapers web sites: Las Vegas City Life & Las Vegas Weekly, or you can pick up a hard copy of them once you arrive.

Peace and Light
Global Peace GrooVes
Christine

On the www and on MySpace:

Global Peace GrooVes.org

and
GrooVes Girl in Vegas Blog

and
Global Peace GrooVes Christine on MySpace.

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Revolution Memorial Day Weekend

Click Poster Below For Larger Image:

Don't Let Nevada's DUI Laws Stop You In Las Vegas

Sorry to sound like a party pooper here, but ...

Higher gas prices may be highest on your list of things to worry about before you drive to or in Vegas this Memorial Day weekend, but there is one other potential problem for you to consider.

I know what the Vegas ads say. Come to Vegas and do things you normally would not do at home. That's fine, but there are limits - what stays here might be you. If you are drinking (or whatever), arrange for alternate transportation. I was stopped by the police and charged with a DUI last year, but fortunately I was able to successfully defend myself in court and have it reduced. You may not be so "lucky". Even so, believe me, you do not want to go through what I went through!

This Memorial Day weekend just assume that there will be numerous Metro Police sobriety checkpoints throughout the Valley ( as there usually is for all major holiday weekends ). Those of you partying at or on Lake Mead, be particularly cautious - the Park Police have the authority to arrest you for open containers, etc., a definite damper on holiday fun!

Come to Vegas to have a good time, but don't think you can do anything really stupid and get away with it. For example, don't drink (or use drugs - legal or illegal - that impair your driving ) and drive. You may have to stay in Vegas a lot longer than you expected with less than desirable accommodations!

For those who may be interested (fore warned is fore armed), here is an outline of Nevada's strict DUI laws ( All others can just cruise by ... )

Across the United States, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) is a serious offense and carries harsh penalties. It's no different in the state of Nevada. Beyond alcohol and illegal drugs, the DUI charge even applies to prescription and over-the-counter remedies when taking them impairs your ability to safely drive a car.

Blood Alcohol Concentration Limit

The illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Nevada is:

* 0.02% for drivers under the age of 21

* 0.04% for commercial license holders

* 0.08% for everyone else

The BAC applies only to alcohol. If any detectable amount of an illegal substance―like cocaine or marijuana―is found in your blood, you'll receive at least the same penalties as you would for alcohol, and perhaps even more.

DUI Laws

The Illegal Per Se Law simply means that driving with a BAC at or above the legally prescribed limit is an offense in and of itself. However, because the BAC limits are just a guide, you can also be arrested or cited for having a lower―but still detectable―amount of alcohol in your system.

The Implied Consent Law means that you must submit to BAC testing when requested by a police officer. Getting into the car while under the influence of drugs or alcohol already "implies" your consent to being tested.

If you resist, law enforcement has been given permission to use reasonable force. You can also be arrested immediately for resisting (this is the more likely result).

The Open Container Law makes it illegal to drive a vehicle with opened alcoholic beverages anywhere in the car. It doesn't apply, however, to the living areas of a motor home or RV, or the passenger areas of buses, taxis, and limousines.If you are driving under the influence with minors under the age of 15 in your car, that will be considered an "aggravating circumstance" and will undoubtedly result in harsher penalties.

If you are convicted of driving under the influence, you will be charged an extra $60 for the chemical tests, if any were done at the time of your arrest.

The Penalties

Getting a DUI comes with two different types of consequence: administrative and criminal. The DMV will impose penalties on you and your license (administrative), and the courts may fine you and press charges (criminal).

The DMV will suspend your license upon your arrest for DUI. To get your license back after both this suspension and the court-imposed suspension have elapsed, you will be required to do the following at the DMV:

* Pay a $65 driver license reinstatement fee.

* Pay a $35 Victims Compensation Civil Penalty.

* Pay a $21.75 driver license application fee.

* Retake the vision and written tests, and possibly also the skills test.

* Have your insurance company file an SR-22 certificate with the DMV for three years.

The above penalties relate to a first offense only; consequences may be more serious for subsequent offenses.

Note: Requesting the required SR-22 certificate from your insurance company will usually result in your premiums doubling or tripling for those three years. Some insurers don't provide SR-22s and may drop you altogether.

The following are the criminal penalties for DUI convictions. This list applies to drivers over the age of 21 who aren't commercial license holders. Penalties could be harsher for young drivers (quicker and longer suspensions) and commercial drivers.

First conviction:

* Driver license revoked for 90 days. After 45 days, you may be eligible to apply for a restricted license that will enable you to drive to work and back.

* Jail sentence of at least two days and up to six months, or 96 hours of community service.

* Fine of at least $400 and up to $1,000.

* Mandatory attendance at DUI school; average cost is $150 for tuition.

* Possible order to attend a substance-abuse treatment program.

Second conviction within seven years:

* Driver license revoked for one year. You will not be eligible for a restricted license.

* Jail sentence or home arrest of at least 10 days and up to six months.

* Fine of at least $750 and up to $1,000.

* One hundred to 200 hours of mandatory community service.

* Possible car registration suspension.

* Possible order to attend a substance-abuse treatment program or undergo clinical supervision for up to one year.

Third (or more) conviction within seven years:

* Driver license revoked for three years; you may be eligible for a restricted license under certain circumstances.

* Prison sentence of at least one and up to six years.

* Fine of at least $2,000 and up to $5,000.

* Possible car registration suspension.

DUI causing death or serious injury (even on a first offense):

* Driver license revoked for three years.

* Prison sentence of at least two and up to 20 years.

* Fine of at least $2,000 and up to $5,000.

If you are arrested for a DUI offense, you're in for some time at the police station and some time in court. You may wish to have a DUI lawyer by your side while you make the decision whether to plead guilty or not guilty. If you decide to fight the charges, you'll have your best chance of succeeding if you appoint a lawyer.

Protect Yourself from Other Drivers

Even if you aren't driving under the influence yourself, your life can be drastically altered forever by coming into contact with someone who is. When you see a car on the road that is driving erratically or otherwise makes you think the driver is impaired, stay away from it. You can even report the driver by dialing *NHP (*647) on your cell phone.

The following are signs that a driver may be driving while impaired:

* Turning too widely

* Straddling the center line, or swerving between two lanes

* Near collisions with people or objects

* Weaving or drifting from lane to lane

* Driving off-road, or ignoring turn lanes and continuing straight

* Driving too fast or too slowly

* Stopping in the road for no reason

* Tailgating

* Erratic, uneven braking

* Driving into oncoming traffic

* Slow response to traffic lights or signs

* Sudden speed changes

* Driving at night without headlights

Additional Resources

The DMV has prepared an information sheet on DUI called Driving Under the Influence.

The following are other, non-DMV-related resources for awareness and information about the problem of driving under the influence:

* Stop DUI (Las Vegas): (702) 456-7687

* Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD):

* Reno: (775) 322-8852

* Winnemucca: (775) 625-3500

* Dayton: (775) 246-7522

* National Commission on Drunk Driving

* Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)

* What's Driving You?

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Medical marijuana patient charged with DUI

May 24, 2007 10:49 AM from KVBC Channel 3 Las Vegas:

A Henderson man faces DUI charges, but he says he's done nothing wrong. That's because he is a legal medical marijuana patient.

Reggie Morgan has liver cancer that is in remission, but he says he is still in a lot of pain, so he smokes marijuana to ease the discomfort. He says he has all the paperwork to make it legal - a doctors note, a letter from the Department of Agriculture, even a medical marijuana ID card.

Recently he was pulled over by a state trooper and charged with driving under the influence. We spoke with Metro police about this issue; they say legal or not, no one under the influence of drugs should be behind the wheel.

"He needs to stay home and tend to his medical issues, not being out driving putting you and me and my families at risk," said Metro Sgt. Phillip George.

NHP took a blood sample from Morgan and it showed marijuana in his system. Morgan says he was not under the influence at the time and that the drug would turn up in his system from prior use.

Las Vegas Apartment Rents Up

(Above) Graphic showing Las Vegas growth

From In Business Las Vegas:

The growth in apartment rents is beginning to slow in the Las Vegas Valley as more and more residents move out of their complexes because they can no longer afford their leases, according to a tracking firm.

Apartment lessors requested average rents of $872 during the first quarter, a 4.3 percent increase over the $836 sought in the first quarter of 2006. That's a bit of a break for tenants because landlords were seeking a 6 percent increase a year ago, according to local research firm Applied Analysis.

The rising rents lowered occupancy to 94.1 percent in the first quarter. It stood at 95.4 percent during the fourth quarter.

Competition from condos and single-family homes, many with rental prices that have been attractive, have had an impact as well, said Applied Analysis Principal Brian Gordon.

"The escalation of prices has been challenging for some consumers to afford in certain portions of the valley," Gordon said. "They are moving to more affordable parts of the valley or out of the market in some cases."

The rental rate growth of 4.3 percent outpaces the rate of inflation, but it is better for consumers than the increase of 5 percent to 7 percent in recent years, Gordon said. He said rental growth should remain steady at 4 percent for several quarters.

Despite the drop in occupancy and slowdown in rent growth, the dynamics of the market will improve for apartment owners because of the large number of construction jobs and casino jobs being created in the next two to three years with development along the Strip, Gordon said.

In addition, many residents who lose their homes through foreclosures will also be moving into apartments, he said.

Among highlights of the report:

Henderson and the southeast had the highest rent at $977 a month. That was followed by the southwest with $975, northwest with $883, south with $878.

The northeast had the lowest rents at $770 a month. The west had $870, the north, $860 and the central and east had $817.

The northwest had the highest growth rate at 6.4 percent while the northeast has the lowest growth rate at 2 percent.

Advertising Support For WHV

I usually try to keep such issues off the blog entries. Nobody really cares about this stuff.

But, I just had to ask if anybody knows why yesterday all my Google AdSense ads went from contextual to Public Service Announcement (PSA) non-paid ads? And, at the same time all my Auction Ads are no longer contextual. They are supposed to be "Vegas" items only.

I always wonder if Google will find some reason to drop me and not notify me like so many other sites report.

I will give Auction Ads a week to come back to selling "Vegas" related items before I remove their ads completely.

I don't make much on the ads, just enough to pay for my monthly cable modem charges, which keeps my blogging "free" ( plus a small profit ). I don't consider WHV to be a "commercial" site, and would not hesitate to ditch the ads if they were no longer relevant.

If any of you computer blogging experts out there have some advice on so called "site monitization" please feel free to comment!

Top Five Las Vegas Area South Side Hotel Casinos

(Above, click for larger image) The District At Green Valley Ranch

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By the "South Side", I'm referring to the South Strip (towards LA) , Henderson, Lake Las Vegas, or anywhere south of the 215 beltway.

These are the favorites of many locals, especially Boulder City and Henderson residents; but even if you are a tourist staying on the strip, you can take a short drive to these properties to see and enjoy another side of Vegas, the South Side!

1. 
   Green Valley Ranch Resort
   

   
   Welcome to the Green Valley Ranch Resort, Spa and Casino. Only minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip, you will discover an escape that combines exciting casino action and the hottest nightlife with the pampering and relaxation of a luxury resort and spa.
   

   
   


2. 
   Monte Lago Village Resort
   

   
   MonteLago Village Resort, a one of a kind luxury resort and real estate opportunity just 17 miles from the Las Vegas strip. Set among the desert mountains of Nevada on the shores of sparkling Lake Las Vegas, the Mediterranean-themed village offers exquisite shopping and dining, golfing, European-style gaming, and access to championship golf and lakeside recreation of Lake Las Vegas Resort.
   

   
   


3. 
   South Point
   

   
   We are located in the heart of the premier southwest Las Vegas valley, just minutes away from the famous Las Vegas Strip. Some of our many amenities include a 16-screen Century Theatre movie complex, 64-lane bowling center and a handful of restaurants that cater to all appetites and tastes. Our casino features a large selection of table games and the latest slot and video poker machines. Our distinctive hotel features spacious rooms and suites with 42-inch plasma televisions, Coast Plush mattresses and Wireless Fidelity throughout. A unique feature to this property is its Equestrian Center, which is the finest horse facility in the country. Stop by the South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa today, we are sure you will want to stay.
   

   
   


4. 
   Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort
   

   
   

   
   
   • 493 guest rooms including 46 suites/parlors
   
   
   • Spa featuring 11 treatment rooms, full-service beauty salon and complete fitness center featuring massages, skin therapies, manicure and pedicures, cardio and strength training equipment
   
   
   • 2 signature pools, a swimming lagoon, cabanas and water activities
   
   
   • 18-hole Reflection Bay Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus signature design championship golf course with instructional programs
   
   
   • The Falls Golf Club, including 10-acre practice facilities and PGA professionals available for private or group instruction
   
   
   • Kayaks, pedal boats, canoes and a number of electric boats to explore Lake Las Vegas
   
   
   • Lake Mead Cruise to sit back and enjoy the view, including Hoover Dam
   
   
   • 45,000 square feet of indoor function space and 70,000 square feet of outdoor function space
   
   
   • Kid's Club and Baby-sitting service
   
   
   • Self, valet and boat trailer parking
   
   
   • Laundry/dry cleaning
   
   
   • Cafe Tajine: American cuisine with Mediterranean influences
   
   
   • Arabesque Lounge
   
   

   
   

   
   


5. 
   The Hacienda Hotel - Boulder City
   

   
   The Hacienda Hotel & Casino welcomes you with gaming excitement, fine dining, and spacious accommodations.
   
   
   The Hacienda offers all of the excitement of live gaming, plus a variety of popular state-of-the-art slots, electronic keno and video poker machines. Visit our sports book to place a wager on your favorite team.
   
   
   Get away from it all at the Hacienda Hotel & Casino. We offer a spectacular panoramic view of beautiful Lake Mead and we're just minutes from Hoover Dam.
   

   
   

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Henderson Area Interactive Map

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And this about the South Point from the Vegas for low rollers LA Times article:

South Point Hotel Casino

Location: 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. S.

It isn't often you can brag about staying in a bargain-rate hotel room that features a 42-inch plasma screen TV. Mine had not one, but two.

South Point (until just recently, it was called South Coast), advertises itself as "the gateway" to Las Vegas, but it is actually a 20-minute drive south of the Strip. It's too far from the action, and it's a $25 cab ride to get there.


But it's a great deal. It has an 80,000-square-foot casino with a 25-story hotel tower; rooms are big and plush; food is cheap; and the amenities are those usually found in pricier hotel rooms.

To top it off, when I checked in on a busy Friday night, all the standard rooms -- I had booked mine anonymously two months in advance -- were full, and I was upgraded to a suite, with a sitting room and two plasma TVs. The rooms were a sunny yellow and gold, the king bed was triple sheeted and a coffee maker offered a free java jolt.

The next morning, I checked out a few standard rooms: All had 42-inch plasma TVs (one, not two), plush bedding and free wireless Internet.

Price paid: $162.41, including tax. (January rate range: $75.21-$381.50 Sunday-Thursday; $118.81-$350 Saturday-Sunday).

Parking: Free.

Amenities: Casino, room service, six restaurants, business center, fitness center and spa, child-care facility.


Pros: Inexpensive and well-maintained. Large casino on site features inexpensive food. (A 16-ounce T-bone or 10-ounce prime rib dinner is $9.95.)

Cons: Five miles from the Strip, but a free shuttle runs from hotel to airport and Strip (it stops at Mandalay Bay), 6 a.m.-12:30 a.m. daily.

Info: 866-796-7111; www.southpointcasino.com. -- Rosemary McClure

Sites Of The Day - Early Las Vegas & Future Las Vegas

"Floating" Craps Game At The Sands Circa 1953
With all the so called modern sophistication of Vegas as an adult playground nonpareil, I sometimes wander nostalgically back to the days when a bikini was considered risqué. Some things are sometimes sexier when left to the imagination.

With today's European Style Sunbathing etc we have really gone a long way, baby. But I'm not always sure it is in the right direction!

Just a thought. Nuff said.

Old Las Vegas Pools


Early Las Vegas Website

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And Now We Travel From The Past To The Future

"New Las Vegas" video from Caldwell Banker and Blip TV --- kind of frightening to me , when Vegas' skyline resembles NYC!

Accused Vegas Bomber Guilty in ID Case

The illegal alien who planted the bomb had a false id. His real name is Omar Rueda-Denvers. Surprise, surprise! Where is ICE? Why isn't his illegal status an issue? The answer isn't being discussed by the mayor or the police or the local media: Las Vegas is now a defacto "Sanctuary City". This has been hushed by the local media. This was an "act of terrorism" by any definition. 'Nuff said!

May 14, 8:08 PM EDT

Accused Vegas Bomber Guilty in ID Case

By KEN RITTER

LAS VEGAS (AP) -- A Panamanian accused of planting a bomb that killed his ex-girfriend's new romantic interest outside a Las Vegas Strip resort pleaded guilty Monday to having false identification.

A justice of the peace sentenced Omar Rueda-Denvers to 10 days in jail on the misdemeanor charge, ensuring that he would remain jailed pending an initial appearance Tuesday on murder and attempted murder charges. He could be sentenced to life in prison if convicted...

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For the complete article click here.

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Related:

Debbie Schlussel Comments On Luxor Bombing

Never forget what happened!

Is Vegas on the list of cities that are targeted by terrorists?

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God Forbid Department

Hoping Life Does Not Imitate Art:

"Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas is the fifth title in the Rainbow Six series, and pits players against terrorists who have taken the city of Vegas hostage."

Las Vegas Local Mother's Day Lightening Hits Twice On Video Poker

On Saturday night in a local Las Vegas casino I witnessed the following miracle of the night before Mother's Day:

A Mother and son were sitting next to each other playing 25 cent video poker machines.

The Mother hit a royal flush in spades, paying $1125 with the suit of the day (spades) 500 coin bonus.

A few seconds later, the son also hits a royal flush in spades for an additional $1125.

It is true. It happened. I witnessed it.

What are the chances?

Happy Mother's Day!!

WHV Most Popular Posts - May, 2007

Today I am bragging blogging about my blog.

Vegas swimming pools, niteclubs, gentlemen's clubs, buffets, tourism, etc. are all fair game topics here. "All Things Las Vegas!"

Lately, the imagination seems to be drawn to the pool area. Wonder why?

Our "webmaster" keeps all kinds of statistics. It is interesting to see which WHV topics are visited most often. Here are the current hottest topics or most popular posts, starting with the most popular first:

1. 
   European Style Sunbathing
   



2. 
   Criss Angel Book Signing Tour
   



3. 
   Top 10 Las Vegas Pools
   



4. 
   Las Vegas Nightlife
   



5. Opening Of Taos Beach Club
   



6. 
   "Vegas Eye" Article About Palms Pool Party
   
   
7. 
   Tourism
   



8. 
   Gentlemen's Clubs
   



9. 
   Buffet Restaurants
   



10. 
    Jimmy Limo
    

Viva Las Vegas!

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Top WHV Pages For The Last 30 Days

According to Google Analytics:


Criss Angel Book Signing Tour


Top 10 Las Vegas Pools


European Style Sunbathing


Industry Opening Of Tao Beach


Top Ten Best Nightlife In Las Vegas


Top Seven Broadway Style Shows


Top Las Vegas Strip Attractions


Top Seven Las Vegas Gentlemen's Clubs


Michael Jackson's New Las Vegas Home


Top 15 Comedy Acts In Las Vegas


Rating Las Vegas Buffet Restaurants


Top Ten Las Vegas Comedy Clubs


Top Ten Romantic Restaurants


Search Criss Angel

Las Vegas Is For The Birds?

This amazing but true story is just another of so many runaway animal stories. Why do pets leave the security of a caring owner? Sometimes, the urge to go to Vegas is like the call of the wild. I wonder if "Dusty" stayed at the Flamingo? I'm amazed that there is a web site for lost birds!

This story is from ArcaMax Publishing, Inc.

Parrot escapes for Las Vegas vacation

DETROIT (UPI) -- A parrot that abruptly left its Michigan owners seven months ago was tracked down recently 2,000 miles away enjoying an impromptu Las Vegas vacation.

Pet owner April Konopka of New Boston, Mich., said she had never given up hope of one day finding her lost parrot, Dusty -- and on April 21 she was reunited with her feathery friend, after learning it had taken up residence in Las Vegas, The Detroit News reported.

How the bird traveled 2,000 miles since vanishing Sept. 17 remains a mystery. It was recaptured at Las Vegas' Nellis Air Force Base.

Dusty was clearly not happy having his Las Vegas visit cut short. Cassandra Saunders said after her husband, Steven, nabbed the bird it went ballistic in her office.

"He destroyed the office, throwing stuff everywhere," she said. "He bit me a couple times as a warning to leave him alone. He's got a little bit of an attitude."

Eventually the agitated bird and its owner were reunited thanks to a Web site for lost birds, the newspaper said.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International

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Reminds me of the old song "Bird Dog" by the Everly Brothers...

Update!: Las Vegas entertainer and frequent subject of this blog, Jimmy Limo, has just informed me that actually he really believes that Vegas is going to the dogs ( and is not just for the birds )! Not only that, has provided definitive proof:

The Realignment of America - Las Vegas Tops Cities Migrated To

From today's Wall Street Journal opinion piece titled "The Realignment of America". An interesting article, well worth reading in its entirety.

The author says that migration of population in the USA follows a fairly predictable pattern, with Las Vegas leading on "inflow" or net migration into the area. I guess I already knew this, it sure takes a lot longer to drive across town and the "rush hour" is starting earlier and earlier!

From the article:

"Domestic inflow has been a whopping 19% in Las Vegas, 15% in the Inland Empire (California's Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, where much of the outflow from Los Angeles has gone), 13% in Orlando and Charlotte, 12% in Phoenix, 10% in Tampa, 9% in Jacksonville. Domestic inflow was over 200,000 in the Inland Empire, Phoenix, Atlanta, Las Vegas and Orlando. These are economic dynamos that are driving much of America's growth. There's much less economic polarization here than in the Coastal Megalopolises, and a higher percentage of traditional families: Natural increase (the excess of births over deaths) in the Interior Boomtowns is 6%, well above the 4% in the Coastal Megalopolises."

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The Nevada Palace - Old Las Vegas, A Dying Breed

Artist's rendering of the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel



Nevada Palace Today

My wife and I have a favorite place to dine and listen to great musical entertainment. To me The Nevada Palace on Boulder Highway represents Vegas as it used to be, before the large corporations took over and homogenized every casino. They all (at least on the "strip") look the same inside now. When we walk into the Nevada Palace, it literally feels like the old sitcom "Cheers" in that you are only a stranger once. Many of the waitresses and casino employees do know my wife and me by name, come to think of it.

But, sadly, for my love for Vegas as it once was, even good old Nevada Palace will be a thing of the past in the near future. Plans are being made for breaking ground for a new casino within the next few months. It will take two years to build and will occupy the land where the RV park now stands. The land which the Nevada Palace casino currently occupies will eventually be a parking garage. I hope that when the new "Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel" is built, it will keep some of the local charm that my wife and I have enjoyed; or we may wind up searching for the last remnants of "Old Las Vegas" somewhere up on Fremont Street!

I remember the Bingo Palace where the current Palace Station now stands ( on East Sahara ) and also the Santa Fe Casino where the Santa Fe Station now exists. These were the last local hangouts where I truly felt "at home". Also the older Plaza hotel downtown had that feeling once. I'm afraid those days are gone forever. The beginning of the end was when they stated handing out those darn players cards so we could all be tracked like mice in some grand maze marketing experiment. It's bad enough that the supermarkets have a record of everything I've ever bought there!

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The Nevada Palace - 5255 Boulder Highway, Las Vegas

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Related:
Article From Judy Thornburn's "Vegas Round The Clock" site


Cannery Plans Expansion

Jimmy Limo Plays Live At The Nevada Palace

Concerts At Lake Las Vegas Resort

The following schedule is from the Stars On The Lake official web site. It is billed as the "Floating Stage Concert Series" Please consult for any schedule changes or additions.

It's worth the trip to escape the Strip! The Monte Lago Village Resort is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors alike. It is a "short" trip from the Strip through "beautiful" Henderson, Nevada - just follow I-215 East until it becomes Lake Meade Drive and look for the signs for a left turn. Or call them for really good directions, I won't be offended. The reference to the adjectives "short" and "beautiful" above should be accepted in the same spirit as your friend describing your blind date (or improvise if you are a gal - the drive is not "tall" and Henderson is not "handsome" ). Enjoy! ( I still don't know what "Floating VIP" means, maybe some really important person who gets around a lot? Ask them what it means if it is important to you or you are important.)

See my previous post on Southside Casinos.

• 
  Chris Isaak
  Friday, May 11
  General Admission/Lawn: $50.00*
  Reserved: $85.00*
  Floating VIP: $125.00*
  


• 
  John Legend with Bon Appetit Wine and Spirits Focus
  Friday, May 18
  General Admission/Lawn: $55.00*
  Reserved without Box Dinner: $115*
  Reserved with Box Dinner: $175.00* available only at bonappetitfocus.com.
  Floating VIP Gourmet Dinner with Celebrity Chef: $250* available only at bonappetitfocus.com.
  


• 
  Lang Lang
  Saturday, June 2
  General Admission/Lawn: $40.00*
  Reserved: $65.00*
  Floating VIP: $125.00*
  


• 
  Kenny Loggins
  Saturday, June 16
  General Admission/Lawn: $50.00*
  Reserved: $85.00*
  Floating VIP: $100.00*
  


• 
  Three Dog Night with Warren Brothers & Fireworks
  Saturday, June 30
  General Admission/Lawn: $30.00*
  Reserved: $70.00*
  Floating VIP: $90.00*
  


• 
  Nevada Ballet Theatre
  Saturday, September 8
  General Admission/Lawn: $24.00*
  Reserved: $60.00*
  Floating VIP: $100.00*
  


• 
  Kenny G with Fireworks
  Saturday, September 29
  General Admission/Lawn: $50.00*
  Reserved: $85.00*
  Floating VIP: $125.00*
  

All performances begin at 8 PM. Gates open at 6 PM. No chairs or coolers allowed.
Small blankets permitted.

*Ticket prices do not include applicable fees.

Lake Las Vegas Resort
1605 Lake Las Vegas Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89011

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Tickets and Information:
TicketMaster.com

Michael Politz's "The Vegas Eye" Article Sets Mood For Skipping Work On Fridays At The Palms Pool Party

The following was freely borrowed from Michael Politz's latest Tuesday May 8th edition of "The Vegas Eye"...

There is much for the eye to see here. Check out The Vegas Eye site for more exciting articles

What's Your Excuse?

Weather be damned, nearly two thousand locals braved the overcast weather to help The Palms launch their weekly pool party, Ditch Fridays last Friday afternoon. The promotion that taunts locals to ditch their cubicles and desks in favor of cabanas and chaise lounges got off to a great start and is expected to continue building momentum in coming weeks. With Palms owner George Maloof walking the pool deck, playing host and buying cocktails for locals eager to get an early start on the weekend, it's clear that the Palms and N9NE Group are set on making Ditch one of the city's most popular on-going promotions.

"This year we have lots of special surprises," said N9NE marketing maven Mike Fuller, "Right Gin will have three cabanas throughout the entire summer because there is a right way to ditch Fridays,"Fuller continued using the clever marketing slogan Right Gin is promoting.

"We will be using the bungalow's for different things throughout the summer and the upper pool is being created as a VIP area for industry locals and the radio contest winners."

In Right Gin's private area, chaise lounges and cabanas adorned with the Right logo offer industry decision makers a serious place to party in the sun while a private bartender makes complimentary Right Gin cocktails. As we did last week, the Eye has a limited amount of passes to the Right Gin cabanas for eligible industry professionals.

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Las Vegas Hosts Annual Academy Of Country Music® Awards

The following is from the Academy Of Country Music website. Look for more information here at WHV as the events unfold!

The 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC® AWARDS will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Tuesday, May 15th, 2007 at 5 PM Pacific Time. The show will be broadcast LIVE on CBS Television at 8 PM (ET/PT). For ticket or hotel information please visit Tthe "Tickets" page of the site. See below for the latest information on all other ACM Events the week Vegas Goes Country™!

Attire for the Awards Show is semi-formal/cocktail. Attire for all other events during ACM Week are casual.

ACM Week Event Calendar

Check back regularly for more information on additional events. All times and details will be posted as soon as they are known. Visit each event page of the site for complete details about the event. Receive email updates by becoming an associate member for free - go to www.acmfan.com to join!

• May 12 - Fremont Street Concerts 2PM - 10PM
  
• May 13 - Motorcycle Ride 10AM --2PM
  
• May 13 - Motorcycle Ride Jam at Fremont Street from 2:30 - 9PM hosted by Montgomery Gentry
  
• May 13 - Gretchen Wilson performs at Fremont Street 10 - Midnight
  
• May 14 - Charity Golf Classic (sold out)
  
• May 14 - Albright & O'Malley Radio Seminar 9AM - 1PM MGM Convention Center Premier Ballroom
  
• May 14 - Charity Poker Tournament 2PM at MGM Grand Casino - hosted by Big & Rich and Two-Foot Fred
  
• May 14 - New Artists' Party for a Cause 7-10PM Grand Ballroom at MGM Convention Center
  
• May 14 - Songwriters in the Round 10:30 - Midnight at MGM Convention Center 3rd floor
  
• May 15 - 42nd Annual Awards live 5PM (PT) / airs on CBS 8PM (ET/PT) MGM Grand Garden Arena
  
• May 15 - All-Star Jam 8:15PM Grand Ballroom at the MGM Convention Center
  

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Free Concerts At Freemont Street Experience

The following is from the ACM Fan Site:

"Two Days of Free, Public Concerts at Fremont Street in Vegas!

WHAT: The Academy of Country Music has added on a 2nd night of all-star concerts at the Fremont Street experience in Las Vegas during The Week Vegas Goes Country®!. In addition to the previously announced Sunday, May 13, 2007 concert featuring Montgomery Gentry, Emerson Drive and Gretchen Wilson with Special Guests following the Academy of Country Music 4th Annual Charity Motorcycle Ride and Jam, they have now added on a May 12, 2007 show - also free and open-to-the-public! - featuring performances by some country's major talents including: Poverty Neck Hillbillies, James Otto, Trent Tomlinson, Ray Scott, Halfway 2 Hazard, Trick Pony, Little Texas, Keith Anderson and many more!

• Saturday, May 12, 2007 2:00pm - 10:00pm
  1st & 3rd Street Stage Fremont Street Experience
  Performers: Poverty Neck Hillbillies, James Otto, Trent Tomlinson, Ray Scott, Halfway 2 Hazard, Trick Pony, Little Texas, Keith Anderson and many more!



• Sunday, May 13, 2007 2:30pm- 10:00pm
  1st & 3rd Street Stage Fremont Street Experience
  Performers: Montgomery Gentry, James Otto, Trent Tomlinson, John Nicholson, Keith Anderson, Fremont Street Experience , Little Texas, Trick Pony, Big Kenny, Emerson Drive, Carolina Rain, Ray Scott, Heidi Newfield, Craig Morgan, Halfway 2 Hazard, Jason Meadows and more!
  
  10:00pm
  1st & 3rd Street Stage Fremont Street Experience
  Performers: Gretchen Wilson and Special Guests!

The Fremont Street Experience is a public-private partnership formed in 1995 between the City of Las Vegas and The Fremont Street Experience, LLC - owned by a group of 10 downtown casino/hotels that underwrite operating expenses for the venue. Member properties include: Binion's Gambling Hall & Hotel, Boyd Gaming (Fremont Hotel & Casino, California Hotel, Main Street Station Casino Brewery & Hotel) Fitzgeralds Casino Hotel; Four Queens Hotel & Casino; Golden Gate Hotel & Casino; Golden Nugget Las Vegas; Lady Luck Hotel Casino and The Vegas Club Hotel Casino."

Jimmy And The Q Celibrate Cinco De Mayo At The El Dorado Casino

Jimmy & The Q

A historic encounter where strings and brass* blend in perfect harmony... There was a definite leaning towards the blues last night, but my personal favorite was a cover of the Bob Dylan song "Knockin' On Heaven's Door".
And, they seem to be having a lot of fun entertaining the crowd. You are sorry you missed their performance, believe me! Pictures don't do them justice. A video is in the works, stay tuned.

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* OK music aficionados - my mistake: the saxophone is technically a woodwind instrument, even though it is made of brass! It indeed has a reed!
From Wikipedia:
"The saxophone (colloquially referred to as sax) is a conical-bored instrument of the woodwind family, usually made of brass and played with a single-reed mouthpiece like the clarinet."
and
"The view of most scholars (see organology) is that the term 'brass instrument' should be defined by the way the sound is made, as above, and not by whether the instrument is actually made of brass. Thus, as exceptional cases one finds brass instruments made of wood, like the alphorn, the cornett, and the serpent, while many of woodwind instruments are made of brass, like the saxophone."
Sorry, Tony!

Vegas Tripping, WHV thanks you for the link

Vegas Tripping has just linked to WHV from their excellent featured editorial posted by Chuckmonster titled Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas (v 2.0). Please read this most timely, important document! To be linked to or referenced or even just casually mentioned by the top ranked Vegas site is an extreme honor. Thanks, Vegas Tripping!

Here are the Las Vegas sites that are currently referenced by the latest Vegas Tripping editorial post:

Las Vegas Podcasts



• 
  - Five Hundy By Midnight
  


• 
  - The Strip Podcast
  


• 
  - Worst Las Vegas Podcast
  


• 
  - This Ain't Iowa
  


• 
  - The Vegas Tourist
  
  



Las Vegas Blogs



• 
  - Two Way Hard Three
  


• 
  - The Strip Podcast Blog
  


• 
  - The Movable Buffet
  


• 
  - Best of Las Vegas
  


• 
  - VegasRex
  


• 
  - What's Happening, Vegas?
  


• 
  - David DeMontmollin
  


• 
  - Die Is Cast
  


• 
  - 11am in Vegas
  



Las Vegas Websites



• 
  - Las Vegas Casino Death Watch
  


• 
  - Everything Las Vegas
  


• 
  - MenuVegas
  


• 
  - Vegas Today and Tomorrow
  


• 
  - RateVegas.com
  

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Las Vegas Hotel & Casino Tips and Reviews - VegasTripping.com : A Sinner's Guide To Las Vegas

Guitarist Jimmy Herring And "Widespread Panic" Coming To Las Vegas

Jimmy Herring coming to Vegas on July 3rd.

( From The Guitar Channel - News, reviews, and info from the world of Jazz Rock Fusion guitar.)

Jimmy Herring to record album with Widespread Panic



By Rich Murray

Widespread Panic will begin recording a new album this month. This will be the first album to feature new guitarist Jimmy Herring, who has been playing with the band for a while now. It is tentatively scheduled for a fall release. The band (w/ Herring) will also hit the road next month for a summer tour. Here are the confirmed tour dates:

6/9/07 – Wakarusa Music Festival – Lawrence, Kansas
6/17/07 – Bonnaroo Music Festival – Manchester, TN
6/22/07 – Red Rocks Amph – Morrison, CO
6/23/07 – Red Rocks Amph – Morrison, CO
6/24/07 – Red Rocks Amph – Morrison, CO
6/28/07 – Orpheum Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
6/29/07 – Orpheum Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
6/30/07 – Orpheum Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
7/1/07 – Viejas Concerts in the Park – San Diego, CA
7/3/07 – Aladdin Theatre – Las Vegas, NV
7/6/07 – The Backyard – Austin, TX
7/7/07 – The Backyard – Austin, TX
7/8/07 – The Backyard – Austin, TX
7/10/07 – Riverfest Amph – Little Rock, AR
7/13/07 – Chicago Theatre – Chicago, IL
7/14/07 – Chicago Theatre – Chicago, IL
7/15/07 – Chicago Theatre – Chicago, IL
7/17/07 – Tower Theatre – Philadelphia, PA
7/18/07 – Fleet Pavilion – Boston, MA
7/20/07 – Radio City Music Hall – New York, NY
7/21/07 – Radio City Music Hall – New York, NY
7/22/07 – Bethel Woods Center – Bethel Woods, NY
7/24/07 – Chevrolet Theatre – Wallingford, CT
7/26/07 – Ntelos Pavilion – Portsmouth, VA
7/27/07 – Verizon Wireless Amph – Charlotte, NC
7/28/07 – Verizon Wireless Amph – Charlotte, NC

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Jimmy Herring according to Wikipedia.

Widespread Panic according to Wikipedia.

Official Jimmy Herring website.

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Jul. 03, 2007


Las Vegas, NV
Planet Hollywood Theatre for the Performing Arts

Pre-sale tickets on-sale 5/8 @ 10am EST $40.00 Tier 1 Reserved $36.00 Tier 2 Reserved Public On-sale: 5/11 @ 10am PDT Ticketmaster.com 702.474.4000 Doors: 6:30pm Show: 7:30pm

Keep Violence Out Of Vegas

This will be my only semi-political rant for the entire year, I promise. If you do not agree with me that is fine. Post your comments below. But am I wrong or is Vegas attracting the wrong elements from LA and other parts of SoCal? I'm talking about gang bangers members who seem to think that there is an open shooting season whenever Vegas sponsors a big sporting event or entertainment events like the NBA All-Star Game or like the MTV awards in September.

Gang membership has increased significantly from 2004 to 2006: "Las Vegas police said there are now 7,447 adult and juvenile gang members in Las Vegas. This is a 26 percent increase from 2004, when there were 5,905 gang members in the jurisdiction."

I am not being racist when I say gang members, please confine your expansionist activities to LA - you have already destroyed one "nice" section of LA ( Westwood )that used to be perceived as a safe to visit. Please confine your gang activities to Cally!

The Las Vegas police department is already overwhelmed when big sporting (example: The recent NBA All-Star Game) or music events hit this town and they have to devote more and more resources to special anti-gang and anti-riot units. We don't need LV to become another LA.

Places like the Palms ( not meaning to pick on them, but they do seem to market to the gangsta wannabe crowd ) seem to be encouraging the attraction of these bad elements. Example: the upcoming MTV video awards in September. I wish they would change their tune and not encourage gang bangers to visit here. It is bad for tourism and definitely bad for tourists who may find themselves in the crossfire!

Vegas must be kept safe for both tourists and locals!

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Related (File under "Bad for Business") article from the Houston Chronicle: MGM Mirage Exec Blasts NBA All-Star Game

Bette Midler to replace Celine Dion as Caesars headliner in Las Vegas

I can see the "Divine Miss M" singing "The Rose" , "Wind Beneath My Wings" and "From a Distance" and doing her shtick in the huge Colosseum theatre. Good choice, since I don't think Ms. Streisand was available. ( Maybe next we can replace Wayne Newton? )

'LAS VEGAS - Bette Midler will replace Celine Dion as the headliner at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, officials announced Thursday, answering the lingering question of who would be chosen to step into some big shoes and the 4,100-seat Colosseum, which Dion virtually sold out for what will be a nearly five-year run by December.
Dion’s show, "A New Day," has grossed more than $500 million since it began in March 2003, producers said. The Grammy award-winning singer announced in January that she would end her run at the end of the year in the $95 million theater.
Midler said the venue was intimidating but exciting.
"I’m looking forward to it, but also I’m terrified because it’s huge," she told The Associated Press by telephone. "That’s giving me the vapors."
"At the same time, they also give you a lot of toys to play with. They give you the lifts and you can fly people in, you can fly them out. There’s all this wing space and hydraulics and stuff, and the dressing rooms are staggering. It should be an opera house somewhere in the Black Forest."
Midler, 61, said she agreed to a two-year contract to work 100 shows a year, performing five nights a week for 20 weeks beginning Feb. 20.
The schedule is less grueling than Dion’s, who performed 160 shows per year.
"That’s really what made me decide it was going to be fun," Midler said. "I have a child in school and I have a lot of commitments here in New York City. I like the idea of being able to come and go."
With Elton John continuing his 50 shows a year through 2008, there will be room for a third Colosseum performer, said John Meglen, the president of Concerts West, an AEG Live company that books talent for Caesars.
"We will probably have one additional artist, which we’ll announce later," Meglen said. He would not comment on widespread speculation that Cher also will be signed to perform.
Meglen said the Colosseum will go dark after Dion’s last show Dec. 15 until Midler begins.
Midler said she hasn’t decided what her 90-minute show will look and sound like.
"I think it’ll be my usual outrageous, flamboyant, over-the-top show," she said.
"I have tremendous background singers and I always have a great band," she added. "If I get lucky, I’ll have semi-nudes. I love showgirls and I love feathers and sequins, so I’m hoping there’ll be plenty of that."'

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Celine Dion Fan Site Blog On MySpace.

Bette Midler according to Wikipedia.

Industry Opening of TAO BEACH LAS VEGAS - May 3rd (9 PM)

On Thursday, May 3rd The MAIN Event returns to host the Industry Opening of TAO Beach. Be one of the very first to see the much talked about and highly anticipated poolside venue. The party starts at 9P with the requisite hosted bar and will be followed by Bryan Bass' 'Dirty 30' birthday party at TAO Nightclub.

RSVP

( RSVP to The MAIN Event: Industry Opening of TAO Beach on Thursday, May 3rd at the brand new TAO Beach club )

Audi R8 on test in Las Vegas - YouTube Video

My first "sporty" car was an Audi Fox back in the early seventies. I can't compare it to the R8, but I do have a certain affinity to Audi engineering.

The video shows people being distracted from the lights and glitter of the Strip when the R8 drives by and causes a refocus of their attention on the 2-seat, mid-engined super sports coupe. The video also has some good shots of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and has excellant production qualities. Now, where can I find an extra 110 grand to buy this beauty?

From the wikipedia article:

"The Audi R8 is a mid-engined sports car released by the German automaker Audi in 2006. Audi announced in 2005 that the name of the successful Audi R8 race car would be used for a new road car in 2007, the Audi R8, based on the Audi Le Mans Quattro concept car, which appeared at the 2003 Geneva Auto Show and 2003 International Motor Show. The R8 was officially launched at the Paris Auto Show on 30 September 2006. There is some confusion with the name which the car shares with the Le Mans winning R8 LMP. Originally, many thought the car would be called the R9 (as there is a gap in numbering left when Audi announced the R8's successor, the diesel-powered R10)."