Anthony Curtis nationally syndicated weekly column.
Feb. 24, 2010
Little more than a month after it assumed control of hotel operations, Harrah’s has completed its takeover of Planet Hollywood on the south Las Vegas Strip. The name will remain Planet Hollywood and Harrah’s will… have the right to use the brand for its international casinos. It’s expected that some physical changes to the property will be made right away and that Planet Hollywood will be integrated into Harrah’s Total Rewards database by the end of March. Not included in the acquisition are some of the restaurants, Privé nightclub, Miracle Mile Shops, and the just-opened PH Tower, which was not controlled by Planet Hollywood. The acquisition gives Harrah’s nine casinos on the Strip.
Bar Change: In more news from the same venue, the Hawaiian Tropic Zone restaurant and club, adjacent to Planet Hollywood, closed last week. After a quick transition, it will reopen as PBR Rock Bar in the spring.
More Garth: His return from retirement for an encore at Encore a bona fide success, Garth Brooks has announced a new set of show dates: March 26-28, Apr. 9-1, June 25-27, July 16-18, and Aug. 6-8. All tickets are $143 and they sell out fast.
BJ Mini: M Resort has initiated a new weekly blackjack mini-tournament that runs on Tuesdays, beginning at 9:15 am (registration). The buy-in is $25 and the prize structure is guaranteed, with $2,400 in the pool and $1,200 going to the winner.
Burlesque Pit Closes: One of Las Vegas ’ most famous places to play blackjack, the Pussycat Dolls party pit, will close this week. The space will be converted into a new music venue.
Question: Is “CSI—The Experience” at MGM Grand a ride?
Answer: No, it’s an interactive experience similar to “Star Trek—The Experience” that used to be at the Las Vegas Hilton. You’re confronted with a crime and clues and you have to go through the forensic maneuvers to figure out who done it. It’s a lot of fun (and don’t worry, it’s not that hard). Tickets are $30.
