Las Vegas Nevada News Feed

We recently received the following question from one of our Access Vegas Insider Vibe newsletter readers:

We are coming to Vegas in September for start of our honeymoon. Lots of people are telling me that we HAVE to visit the Grand Canyon. Can you please give me your views, is this really awe inspiring or just a “large hole”. Last year we were lucky enough to have gone on safari in Kenya and that was truly humbling, so any similar feeling from the Canyon and we would not even hesitate.

Regards

Brian and Sara

Our answer:

Our friend Mark from The Vegas Tourist is a tour guide that has taken many thousands of people all over this area. One of his favorite stories is how on bus tours that include The Grand Canyon, many people assume that it is probably just a big hole and once you’ve seen a photo of it, no big deal.

Then… they get off the bus, go over and actually look at the Canyon, and are so amazed and astounded that the literally run back to the bus for their camera and bemoan that they only have 1.5 hours there. You will be more than amazed. Similar experiences (although not quite as jaw-dropping) happen to those who visit Hoover Dam. OK… a big dam. So what. Just go stand on the thing. I’ve never had anyone visit it who wasn’t awestruck.

Our suggestion? We have a Canyon bus tour listed just above (which turned out to be a complete but nice coincidence). But for those who want the absolute best Grand Canyon experience, we strongly suggest the Maverick Helicopter Tours flight that actually lands you in at at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Check out preview video of that flight below:

This tour can be booked at Maverick Helicopter Tours

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Maverick Helicopter Tours flies from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon in comfortable Ecostar helicopters. Enjoy the video highlights:

A visit to Las Vegas isn’t complete without seeing the Grand Canyon by air. Learn more and book this amazing tour today by clicking the photo below:

Click For More Information On The Stunning Tour You Just Enjoyed Watching

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Check in the with Chase drivers as they prepare for the Victory Lap down The Strip in Las Vegas from the starting point by Coca-Cola world and the new Hard Rock Cafe.

NASCAR drivers making a U-Turn on the Las Vegas Strip at the intersection of Spring Mountain Road (Treasure Island, Venetian/Palazzo, Wynn/Encore, and the Fashion Show Mall). Plenty of driver burnouts!

Four-time defending NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson does a burnout on the Las Vegas Strip during Champion’s Week. Here’s the burnout… and the aftermath. Johnson apparently broke a rear axle, and couldn’t get his car back up The Strip. He walked part of the way!

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Starting March 12, 2009, Dinner in the Sky will begin offering five dinner “flights” a day every Thursday thru Sunday. For the month of March, special introductory rates are being offered for those anxious to be among the first to experience the newest and the boldest dining opportunity in Las Vegas.

Beginning at sunset and running thru the evening, 22 guests per flight will be taken 18 stories high for 360-degree views of the famous Las Vegas Strip and skyline from their comfortable perch that is part of the specialized Sky Box.

“This concept is a perfect fit for the excitement and energy of this city and it is a great “Las Vegas” story for people to tell back home. We have gotten a lot of positive feedback from people who have experienced this and we are extremely excited to be able to offer this experience to people on an ongoing basis,” said Michael Hinden, president of Dinner in the Sky.

Not your average dinner with a view. Dinner in the Sky is a breathtaking experience that gives its passengers the red carpet treatment from the word go. With the thrill and excitement of a fantastic show starring the lights of Las Vegas, combined with a fine dining al fresco experience complete with gourmet hors d’ oeuvre, a selection of entrees and champagne service, this is a night that will not be soon forgotten.

Reservations are available now and can be made online at www.dinnerintheskylv.com or by calling 702-257-7303 or 8774skydine. Guests must meet a minimum height requirement of 59 inches or 150cm to be safely secured in the seats.

The Dinner in the Sky experience is available for private functions and is the perfect venue for branding opportunities and charitable or fundraising events. Special rates are available for non-profit organizations. Please contact the Dinner in the Sky for more details.

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Zero Gravity Corporation (ZERO-G®), the first and only FAA-approved provider of commercial weightless flights, will host its exclusive ZERO-G Weightless Experience in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 21. The experience offered by ZERO-G is the only commercial opportunity on Earth for individuals to experience true “weightlessness” without going to space. This is the identical weightless flight experience used by NASA to train its astronauts and used by Ron Howard and Tom Hanks to film Apollo-13. G-FORCE ONE, ZERO-G’s specially modified Boeing 727-200 aircraft, will depart from Dulles International Airport. To book a seat with ZERO-G, please visit www.gozerog.com.

Each ZERO-G mission is designed for maximum fun. The aircraft’s interior is a zero gravity playroom, complete with padded floors and walls and video cameras to record the unforgettable moments. When experiencing zero gravity, guests can fly the length of an airplane cabin like superman, flip like an Olympic gymnast, pour water in the air and watch the droplets hover before their eyes, release a handful of M&M’s and chase them down like a game of human Pac-Man, and enjoy 10-times more hang-time than the world’s best basketball player. It’s not simulated; ZERO-G replicates the same levels of weightlessness enjoyed on Mars (1/3-gravity), the moon (1/6-gravity), and zero gravity. It’s an experience unlike any other!

ZERO-G guests will receive:

· Pre-flight training to maximize their ZERO-G Experience

· Private transportation to/from McCarran International Airport

· ZERO-G flight suit and patch

· Personal photography by a world-class photographer

· Post-flight re-gravitation party

· Weightless flight award certificate

· Branded ZERO-G gifts

· The chance to experience the rare and exalted state of weightlessness

Weightless flight is a rare, unique opportunity to experience the total absence of gravity. Buzz Aldrin, Martha Stewart, Joey Fatone, Tony Hawk, Princess Beatrice of York, Professor Stephen Hawking, Billy Bush, Burt Rutan, Amy Grant, Miles O’Brien, and cast members of “The Apprentice,” and “The Biggest Loser” are just a few notable passengers who’ve flown with ZERO-G and proclaimed it to be one of the most thrilling experiences of their lives.

Flights last approximately two hours and deliver 15 separate weightless experiences, each lasting about 30 seconds. This is twice the amount of weightless time achieved in a typical sub-orbital flight into space. The ZERO-G Experience is offered at a price of $4,950 per seat plus tax. For more information, or to see pictures and video of the experience, visit www.gozerog.com.

About ZERO-G

Zero Gravity Corporation is held space entertainment and tourism company whose mission is to make the excitement and adventure of weightlessness accessible to the public. ZERO-G is based in Las Vegas and Florida and is the first and only FAA-approved provider of weightless flight to the general public, as well as the entertainment and film industries; corporate and incentive market; non-profit research and education sectors; and government.

Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Las Vegas, ZERO-G is led by a world-class team of veteran astronauts and experienced business leaders. The company was co-founded by X PRIZE Chairman and space visionary, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis; veteran astronaut, Dr. Byron K. Lichtenberg, and NASA Engineer Ray Cronise. The team spent more than a decade working to bring the marvel of weightless flight to the public.

Since launching the ZERO-G Experience in September 2004, the company has conducted more than 175 weightless flights and flown over 5,000 members of the public, including celebrities and media personalities, corporate charters, science and math teachers, and individuals age eight to 93.

ZERO-G operates under the highest safety standards as set by the FAA (Part-121) with its partner Amerijet International of Ft. Lauderdale Florida. Aircraft operations take place under the same regulations set for large commercial passenger airliners.

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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.

“We are delighted to unveil these powerful predators to our guests of Shark Reef Aquarium,” said Adrienne Rowland, the facility’s director. “The tiger sharks demonstrate Shark Reef’s goal to raise awareness and appreciation of our world’s fascinating marine life.”

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.

The tiger sharks join an impressive group of animals at Shark Reef Aquarium, a 90,560-square-foot, predator-based aquarium – the only one of its kind in North America.

Since its debut in 2000, Shark Reef Aquarium has become a must-see Las Vegas attraction and educational facility, where adults and children alike can enjoy and learn about more than 2,000 divinely dangerous animals including a rare Komodo dragon, a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, crocodiles and piranhas.

Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday – Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Ticket prices are $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children; children four and under are free. Discounts are available for Nevada residents with valid ID.

For more information, visit www.mandalaybay.com, www.sharkreef.com or call (702) 632-4555.

Shark Reef Information

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino

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Johnny Avello, Executive Director of the Race & Sports Book at Wynn Las Vegas, has released his odds for the winners of the 2009 season of “Dancing with the Stars.”

[Please note: these odds are for entertainment purposes only and are not wagered on.]

With more than 20 years of experience in the gaming industry, Avello’s predictions are derived from a combination of odds-making formulas, researching and reading, and networking with people in the business and community. Created for entertainment purposes only, his television-show odds are continually featured on numerous television and radio programs including “Extra,” “Good Morning America,” and E! Entertainment’s “Daily Ten.”

Odds to Win Dancing With The Stars VIII Monday March 9th, 2009 at 8 PM on ABC

Dance Star                Partner                            Open          Current

David Alan Grier           Kym Johnson                    4 to 1           4 to 1

Shawn Johnson           Mark Ballas                       5 to 1           5 to 1

Chuck Wicks              Julianne Hough                   6 to 1           6 to 1

Lawrence Taylor          Edyta Sliwinska                  8 to 1           8 to 1

Ty Murray                   Chelsie Hightower              10 to 1         10 to 1

Denise Richards          Maskim Chmerkovskiy       12 to 1         12 to 1

Melissa Rycroft           Tony Dovolani                    14 to 1         14 to 1

Belinda Carlisle           Jonathan Roberts               15 to 1         15 to 1

Gilles Marini               Cheryl Burke                      18 to 1         18 to 1

Holly Madison             Dimitry Chaplan                  20 to 1         20 to 1

Steve Wozniak            Karla Smirnoff                    25 to 1        25 to 1

Lil Kim                        Derek Hough                     30 to 1        30 to 1

Steve-O                      Lacey Schwimmer              40 to 1        40 to 1

Odds produced by Johnny Avello (Director of Race & Sports Operations).

Odds are for entertainment purposes only. Odds as of 03/09/09

Wynn Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

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On Friday, March 6, Paris Hilton continued her weekend-long birthday bash at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino kicking off the night with an intimate dinner at AGO with rumored boyfriend Doug Reinhardt and 20 friends.  After everyone was seated, Reinhardt stood up and toasted Hilton saying, “Here’s to the world’s prettiest girl!”  The group followed up dinner with a visit to Wasted Space, then a few games in the Poker Lounge.  Later, Hilton and friends returned to the penthouse for bowling and late night snacks, finally calling it a night at 5 a.m.

Throughout the evening, Reinhardt and Hilton were inseparable and very affectionate, not leaving each other’s side for more than two minutes at a time. An insider says that she was very aware of where he was at all times and if he wasn’t around, she would send security to find him.

Photo credit – Erik Kabik/RETNA

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

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Magnificent Botanical Ox to Usher in Chinese New Year 2009

WHAT: Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens ushers in the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Ox, with a spectacular new exhibit. The majestic centerpiece will be a 15-foot-long ox comprised of more than 10,000 living plants. The ox is the second animal in the Asian zodiac.

Just steps away, an 18-foot-tall Chinese God of Wealth and Fortune will stand amidst golden lucky coins. Visitors also will delight to discover a trio of charming, 6-foot-tall giant pandas. Made of more than 9,000 living plants, the pandas will frolic in a lush garden filled with towering bamboo.

The dramatic design found within Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens will be guided by the ancient practice of Feng Shui – the art of using surroundings to attract harmony, balance and positive life energy. Guests are invited to celebrate the Chinese New Year from January 14 through February 28.

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Information

Bellagio Resort and Casino

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Beginning January 14, Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens will celebrate the 2009 Chinese New Year, the Year of the Ox, with a unique display filled with hidden meaning. The Conservatory’s design will be guided by the ancient practice of Feng Shui – the art of using surroundings to attract harmony, balance and positive life energy.

The dramatic centerpiece of this exhibit will be a botanical 15-foot-long ox. The magnificent creature will be found cooling off in a tranquil pond. His full coat will be comprised of more than 10,000 living Alternanthera, a low-growing herb, while his gleaming horns will be made with a golden-hued metal.

Legend has it that Buddha asked all the animals to meet him on Chinese New Year. Twelve came. The second animal in the Asian zodiac, the ox serves as a symbol of prosperity. Those born in the Year of the Ox tend to be self-assured, inspirational and born leaders.

Just steps away from Bellagio’s robust ambassador, an 18-foot-tall Chinese God of Wealth and Fortune will be found amidst I-Ching coins, a traditional Chinese money symbol. Widely recognized as the strongest symbol of good fortune in China, the God of Wealth and Fortune will be flanked by two Ming Dynasty-styled dings, ancestral vessels that protect against bad luck.

Nearby, a trio of charming, 6-foot-tall giant pandas, made of more than 9,000 living plants, will frolic in a lush garden filled with towering bamboo. Considered a national treasure in China and listed as an endangered species, pandas spend at least 12 hours each day eating up to 84 pounds of bamboo.

Within Bellagio’s Conservatory, visitors also will find a zigzag bridge leading to a beautiful, wing-tipped gazebo painted a deep red lacquer with shimmering gold trim and green-tiled roofs. The color red signifies happiness while the upturned roofline will ward off evil spirits. The sharp pattern of the bridge will protect against negative energy and bad spirits. A majestic mountain, seen as a pillar between heaven and earth, will serve as a dramatic backdrop.

The teachings of Feng Shui also will be used to purposely position the flow of water into Bellagio’s Conservatory, and not away, ensuring the flow of positive energy. Visitors are invited to celebrate Chinese New Year in Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens January 14 through February 28.

Chinese New Year Facts:

· The Year of the Ox is January 26, 2009 – February 14, 2010
· People born in the Year of the Ox tend to be self-assured and inspirational

Chinese New Year Conservatory Facts:

* 15-foot-long ox comprised of 10,000 Alternanthera
* Three 6-foot-tall giant pandas comprised of Helichrysum Icicles and Hemigraphis Erect
* 18-foot-tall God of Wealth and Fortune
* I-Ching coins are traditional money symbol
* Zigzag bridges, color red and water protect against evil, ensure positive energy

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Information

Bellagio Resort and Casino

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