NFBC Announces Bellagio as First Weekend Host Hotel - Replacing Flamingo!

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 12:36 pm

Originally posted by freddiezee:

Greg

If you get a lower Bellagio rate and people who have reserved rooms at the Flamingo want to switch over will the Flamingo give us a full refund?

Just wondered if that was discussed when the Fanball and the Flamingo agreed to part ways and if so, what was agreed upon. Every hotel gives you the option to cancel 72 hours before your reservation. I don't see why the Flamingo would be any different. Call me Fred if you'd like to talk more about our potential rate.

Again, I invited anyone who had a beef with us to call me today. I had an honest conversation with everyone who called and I appreciate it. I didn't get as much work done today as I'd like, but s**t happens sometimes. But call me to beef rather than just assume we're jerks trying to make your life hell by moving from the Flamingo to the Bellagio. We can't say everything that happened on the boards for obvious reasons, but the insinuations I felt weren't spot on and any complaint anyone had could have been directed to me at anytime. My phone is still live if you need me.

Hard Heads · Post by **Hard Heads** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 12:40 pm

Originally posted by Greg Ambrosius:

quote:Originally posted by Hard Heads:

quote:Originally posted by Gekko:

quote:Originally posted by Hard Heads:

It is petty, but it is also laughable that the powers that be see this as such a big deal that it had to be a surprise instead of something people weren't surprised with. craig, i could be wrong, but for the nfbc to move to bellagio they were FORCED TO or it made a lot ofsense for them to do so.

i agree that no one like changes to anything this close to the season, but this one appears to be very minor (and an upgrade) [/QUOTE]Mark,

I agree that it was minor and that was kind of the point I was trying to make. If they were forced to do it and it was such a minor upgrade then why make it a surprise this late in the game where some people would be on the defense? I just feel it was something you could have and should have communicated with people in advance, especially after having already booked rooms and paid for events didn't people have a right to have a heads up? I am just speaking as a bystander here and as one who is unaffected so take it as you wish. [/QUOTE]I think I explained this above Craig. We didn't know we were leaving the Flamingo until early this week. We never tried to leave the Flamingo. We were seeking to work with them.

But in the end, you can't stay in a house where you're not allowed in. I think we did a helluva job finding a new host hotel at such a late notice. It was either that or not run this event at all in Las Vegas because once we were out of the Flamingo, the only other recourse was a hotel very close by. Bellagio fit the bill. [/QUOTE]Greg dont take my messages the wrong way cause I am neither mad nor affected from this I am just speaking to how I might feel had I been affected. You and Tom are the reason I came to play this event and left WaCoff, but you seriously deserve a raise for how many times you have to come behind Ryan to put out a fire and twist his words to appease the masses! Again realize I am not mad at all and I find this all a bit comical! I appreciate the event you guys put on and appreciate the troubles you two have to put up with. It is an upgrade in venue and should be taken as a move for the best! See you in 5 weeks.....

NorCalAtlFan · Post by **NorCalAtlFan** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 12:55 pm

you know, i guess the reason i find the move annoying is that Ryan has poo poo'd the Flamingo site in various posts for a while now and has been touting how wonderful he is that he lined the Bellagio up for weekend 2. and now, poof, Flamingo is bye bye and Bellagio is the new site for weekend 1. so forgive me for not totally buying into the Flamingo didn't want the NFBC.

at this point, i would have liked a big announcement to be that the software is up and running and we can take a look at it, especially FAAB. or, league/overall prizes will be increased once you hit your goal of 405.

oh well. hopefully the software is up and running for the sats so we can get some kind of feedback.

Spartacus · Post by **Spartacus** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 12:59 pm

Originally posted by KJ Duke:

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Greg Ambrosius:

[qb] Oh, and we're not going back to the Flamingo. EVER.

I'm on board with this idea, Finally be able to get a decent meal............

I agree KJ. My biggest gripe with the Flamingo has always been that I thought the food was terrible..................................

.........................."and such small portions"

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:12 pm

Originally posted by NorCalAtlFan:

you know, i guess the reason i find the move annoying is that Ryan has poo poo'd the Flamingo site in various posts for a while now and has been touting how wonderful he is that he lined the Bellagio up for weekend 2. and now, poof, Flamingo is bye bye and Bellagio is the new site for weekend 1.I don't believe this is fair. Ryan didn't make this announcement so that he would look like the king of the hill. He made the announcement because he, Greg and myself ALL believe this is a great development for the NFBC. As Greg said, there are reasons why we made this move that can't be discussed here but the fact remains The Bellagio welcomed us and wants to work with us and work with you to make this event better than it's ever been before.

If Ryan is guilty of anything it's the same transgression Greg and I have been guilty of as well - and that's doing everything in our power to enhance the NFBC experience in as many ways possible every year. Today's announcement wasn't about Ryan. It was about the NFBC and all of you who travel to Las Vegas as participants. I do not believe it's fair or accurate to accuse him of doing something to undermine this event in any way.

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:26 pm

Originally posted by NorCalAtlFan:

you know, i guess the reason i find the move annoying is that Ryan has poo poo'd the Flamingo site in various posts for a while now and has been touting how wonderful he is that he lined the Bellagio up for weekend 2. and now, poof, Flamingo is bye bye and Bellagio is the new site for weekend 1. so forgive me for not totally buying into the Flamingo didn't want the NFBC.

at this point, i would have liked a big announcement to be that the software is up and running and we can take a look at it, especially FAAB. or, league/overall prizes will be increased once you hit your goal of 405.

oh well. hopefully the software is up and running for the sats so we can get some kind of feedback. Some people would think Ryan has an agenda for himself if he said there was free money at the Registration table. Craig said it himself. He thinks I bail him out. Ryan made a positive announcement and you folks see a hidden agenda. I understand your bias towards him. That's fine, but not fair.

You think too highly of Flamingo management. You should have been in the conversations we just had. Sorry you don't believe what I honestly posted, but I can't do anything but tell the truth. Believe your own version.

Time to move on. We're moving across the street to the place with a big cement pond, as Jed Clampitt so eloquently said.

Please come with us if you'd like. I think the water will be just fine over there.

NorCalAtlFan · Post by **NorCalAtlFan** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:33 pm

part of the reason is Ryan has come off as a pompous a$$ in most, not all, but most posts I have read of his.

we'll see you at the Bellagio. and after 9-10 jagger bombs, all will be forgotten.

Gekko · Post by **Gekko** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:36 pm

Originally posted by NorCalAtlFan:

after 9-10 jagger bombs what??? if i knew that i woulda found a way to vegas

Potter · Post by **Potter** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:54 pm

"Would like a free upgrade to first class?"

"How dare you!! I just checked to make sure my seat back and tray table are in their full upright and lock position! Now you want me to move? Hmm, there must be some conspiracy afoot, because the timing of this offer is highly suspicious. Just as I am identifying the closest emergency exit, you spring this on me? You really expect me to start all over from another seat? Nice try!! See this? This is the safety pamphlet you ALREADY told me is in the seat pocket in front of me. I just know there isn't gonna be one in the seat you are trying to force on me. No way, not a chance. And why would I drink free champagne when I can spend 7 bucks for a glass of white zinfandel from a finely constructed box? Find some other chump to sit there. You're not getting one over on me!!"

Hard Heads · Post by **Hard Heads** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 1:55 pm

Originally posted by Greg Ambrosius:

quote:Originally posted by NorCalAtlFan:

you know, i guess the reason i find the move annoying is that Ryan has poo poo'd the Flamingo site in various posts for a while now and has been touting how wonderful he is that he lined the Bellagio up for weekend 2. and now, poof, Flamingo is bye bye and Bellagio is the new site for weekend 1. so forgive me for not totally buying into the Flamingo didn't want the NFBC.

at this point, i would have liked a big announcement to be that the software is up and running and we can take a look at it, especially FAAB. or, league/overall prizes will be increased once you hit your goal of 405.

oh well. hopefully the software is up and running for the sats so we can get some kind of feedback. Some people would think Ryan has an agenda for himself if he said there was free money at the Registration table. Craig said it himself. He thinks I bail him out. Ryan made a positive announcement and you folks see a hidden agenda. I understand your bias towards him. That's fine, but not fair.

You think too highly of Flamingo management. You should have been in the conversations we just had. Sorry you don't believe what I honestly posted, but I can't do anything but tell the truth. Believe your own version.

Time to move on. We're moving across the street to the place with a big cement pond, as Jed Clampitt so eloquently said.

Please come with us if you'd like. I think the water will be just fine over there. [/QUOTE]It truly saddens me Greg that that is all you can read out of my message....see you in Vegas

Fourslot40 · Post by **Fourslot40** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 2:02 pm

Greg/ Ryan,

I think I understand what's happening. All of those who oppose this decision must be in the Friday, March 19, 4pm auction league because if I knew I was drafting against Johnny Bosch, I'd be looking for a way to back out too.

Woooooo!! I'm glad it's the Bellagio. Keep up the good work guys! I'll be in two places all weekend... in the draft room or in the sportsbook.

MadCow Sez · Post by **MadCow Sez** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 3:15 pm

Originally posted by Potter:

"Would like a free upgrade to first class?"

"How dare you!! I just checked to make sure my seat back and tray table are in their full upright and lock position! Now you want me to move? Hmm, there must be some conspiracy afoot, because the timing of this offer is highly suspicious. Just as I am identifying the closest emergency exit, you spring this on me? You really expect me to start all over from another seat? Nice try!! See this? This is the safety pamphlet you ALREADY told me is in the seat pocket in front of me. I just know there isn't gonna be one in the seat you are trying to force on me. No way, not a chance. And why would I drink free champagne when I can spend 7 bucks for a glass of white zinfandel from a finely constructed box? Find some other chump to sit there. You're not getting one over on me!!"

Well said, ER.

Good call on the move, Ryan.

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Thu Feb 18, 2010 3:32 pm

Originally posted by Potter:

"Would like a free upgrade to first class?"

"How dare you!! I just checked to make sure my seat back and tray table are in their full upright and lock position! Now you want me to move? Hmm, there must be some conspiracy afoot, because the timing of this offer is highly suspicious. Just as I am identifying the closest emergency exit, you spring this on me? You really expect me to start all over from another seat? Nice try!! See this? This is the safety pamphlet you ALREADY told me is in the seat pocket in front of me. I just know there isn't gonna be one in the seat you are trying to force on me. No way, not a chance. And why would I drink free champagne when I can spend 7 bucks for a glass of white zinfandel from a finely constructed box? Find some other chump to sit there. You're not getting one over on me!!"

Now that post is DEFINITELY worth several Corona's!! Awesome. Made me laugh for the first time today.

Walla Walla · Post by **Walla Walla** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 2:42 am

This is not the first time this has happened.

NFFC had a draft I forget which year that had to move the main event to a off strip location.

After asking, Greg provided Bus service.

So it's not just a Fanball issue.

Still Ryan E. you need to study the past to avoid future mistakes. Thank God I switched to the second weekend!

colorado · Post by **colorado** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 3:14 am

Similar layout at no extra cost to us like the Flamingo?

[ February 19, 2010, 09:16 AM: Message edited by: colorado ]

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 3:21 am

Originally posted by colorado:

Similar layout at no extra cost to us like the Flamingo? Of course. And a better sportsbook to boot!!

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 3:26 am

Originally posted by Walla Walla:

This is not the first time this has happened.

NFFC had a draft I forget which year that had to move the main event to a off strip location.

After asking, Greg provided Bus service.

So it's not just a Fanball issue.

Still Ryan E. you need to study the past to avoid future mistakes. Thank God I switched to the second weekend!

John, thanks for jogging the ol' memory bank. Yes, the Excalibur treated us even worse in 2005 and we were forced at the last minute to find space for the NFFC main event. We had to go to Palace Station, believe it or not, and bus folks over there. It was tough, but we pulled it off.

Anyone who has dealt with hotels knows they don't care about you or your business. They just need any sale for that time period. The Bellagio has been VERY different with Fanball and that's been refreshing for me. They really WANT us to host the NFBC, NFFC, FFOC, ISC and other key events there. Basketball too next fall. It's exciting to have a partner like this at the best hotel on the Strip. I'm not sure why folks are defending the Flamingo management when they don't know what happened here.

Hey, I've been doing this for seven years now in Las Vegas. Would you take any of our other draft destinations over the Bellagio? Here they are:

Rio

Flamingo

Excalibur (Palace Station)

Stardust (FANTASTIC sportsbook)

Flamingo with new GO Rooms

Now the Bellagio.

Chest Rockwell · Post by **Chest Rockwell** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 3:30 am

I thought the Flamingo was just terrible. Bad room, bad food, they did not clean my room one day etc.

Greg do you think Bellagio is better than Winn or the hotel at Mandalay Bay? I have never stayed at Bellagio and if it is I will be very pleased.

Bottom line is Bellagio is a great location and I would have definitely went to NY or Chicago if it were back at the Flamingo.

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 3:38 am

Originally posted by Chest Rockwell:

I thought the Flamingo was just terrible. Bad room, bad food, they did not clean my room one day etc.

Greg do you think Bellagio is better than Winn or the hotel at Mandalay Bay? I have never stayed at Bellagio and if it is I will be very pleased.

Bottom line is Bellagio is a great location and I would have definitely went to NY or Chicago if it were back at the Flamingo. Bellagio is in the heart of the Strip, is one of the best hotels I know and everything about the place gives you a good feeling. I haven't stayed at the Wynn. Mandalay Bay is beautiful, but out at the end of the Strip and they have been impossible to work with on smaller conventions. They host HUGE conventions out there and have never had the time of day for anything I've been able to host. Rooms are also much pricier than what we're getting at the Bellagio.

Last year our room block at the Flamingo was $169 per night. This year we are offering $159 per night on both weekends of March Madness and we're working hard for an even lower rate that first weekend. We're doing all we can to help you folks and make the NFBC better, whether you believe it or not.

All I know is that after seeing snow for the past four months, that flower garden at the Bellagio and that gorgeous pool will be a sight for sore eyes!!

RedRyder · Post by **RedRyder** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:08 am

Originally posted by Greg Ambrosius:

quote:Originally posted by Chest Rockwell:

I thought the Flamingo was just terrible. Bad room, bad food, they did not clean my room one day etc.

Greg do you think Bellagio is better than Winn or the hotel at Mandalay Bay? I have never stayed at Bellagio and if it is I will be very pleased.

Bottom line is Bellagio is a great location and I would have definitely went to NY or Chicago if it were back at the Flamingo. Bellagio is in the heart of the Strip, is one of the best hotels I know and everything about the place gives you a good feeling. I haven't stayed at the Wynn. Mandalay Bay is beautiful, but out at the end of the Strip and they have been impossible to work with on smaller conventions. They host HUGE conventions out there and have never had the time of day for anything I've been able to host. Rooms are also much pricier than what we're getting at the Bellagio.

Last year our room block at the Flamingo was $169 per night. This year we are offering $159 per night on both weekends of March Madness and we're working hard for an even lower rate that first weekend. We're doing all we can to help you folks and make the NFBC better, whether you believe it or not.

All I know is that after seeing snow for the past four months, that flower garden at the Bellagio and that gorgeous pool will be a sight for sore eyes!!

[/QUOTE]Greg, will we know today if the first weekend can get a better rate than $159? Although, I will say $159 is a good rate for the Bellagio.

Chest, you didn't ask me, but nothing compares to The Hotel!! Bellagio is good though, I think you will like it.

Potter · Post by **Potter** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:09 am

I've been in all and stayed at most of them.

Bellagio/Wynn/Venetian are all incredible. Mandalay just a small notch below, but they do have a topless pool:)

The Venetian has bigger rooms, but Bellagio's location > Venetian > Wynn. Plus they have imo the best buffet in LV, and the Venetian doesn't even have one. At least last I checked. Wynn has a really good one too though. So I would rank them B,V,W.

I have never met anyone who stayed at the Bellagio who didn't love it. I'm sure those people exist though. This thread proves you can't please everyone

I hear the new joints @ City Center are really nice (Aria, Vdara), but no casino.

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:10 am

Originally posted by RedRyder:

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Greg Ambrosius:

[qb] [QUOTE]Originally posted by Chest Rockwell:

[qb] Greg, will we know today if the first weekend can get a better rate than $159? Although, I will say $159 is a good rate for the Bellagio.

Chest, you didn't ask me, but nothing compares to The Hotel!! Bellagio is good though, I think you will like it. I hope so. Ryan has an answer already and is just getting verification today. I'll post as soon as he gets the final yes on this.

Sack · Post by **Sack** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:19 am

One time at the FLAMINGO, some guy walked up to me and handed me a room key and said "Here, is your room key". Didn't have a clue as to who this guy was or how the hell he got my room key? An hour later, same guy is in the same auction as me

and he is bidding me up to $19 on Phillip Hughes.

Which turned out to be a complete bust.

This was my introduction to CHEST ROCKWELL

I'll never trust Jim Christie with my room key ever again.

Kent, take it easy on me this year.

[ February 19, 2010, 10:20 AM: Message edited by: Sack ]

sportsbettingman · Post by **sportsbettingman** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:22 am

This is by far the worst economy the Bellagio has seen since opening in 1998. I hope you get some longer term contracts before they bump you or dump you when the economy gets rolling again!

Greg Ambrosius · Post by **Greg Ambrosius** » Fri Feb 19, 2010 4:36 am

Originally posted by sportsbettingman:

This is by far the worst economy the Bellagio has seen since opening in 1998. I hope you get some longer term contracts before they bump you or dump you when the economy gets rolling again!

Always filled with positive thoughts Lance. Appreciate it!!

But you are correct, we could be yesterday's news tomorrow with these folks.

The economy is so bad that you grabbed a beautiful picture when the fountains were off. Couldn't they afford to start up the fountains at this time?