We are asked quite often how bars are affected by the current looming economy. E4's unexpected and rather abrupt closing this past weekend helps to answer this question. For the most part, bar sales along with the entire hospitality industry have been on the decline along with tips, which are the lifeline of the service industry's employees.

There are, of course, bars that are doing very well even in these tough times, such as American Junkie and The Lodge. Perhaps because they are the newest additions to the Scottsdale Nightlife or perhaps because they have truly captured their niche market - only time will tell.

You've probably been indulging in cookies and egg nog all week anyways, so what's another few 1000 calories of booze? Tonight's Christmas hotspots are going to be Acme and American Junkie.

Now that Acme is host to a bartending reality TV series (which has yet to picked up by any major TV syndicate) they have really stepped up their promotions. Tonight is no different and features a $20 all-u-can drink special starting at 8pm and going until close. Just don't get too sloppy, you might end up on FOX!

We mentioned Cream Stereo Lounge well over a month ago... and with it's New Years Eve Grand Opening just around the corner, Cream Stereo Lounge promises to be Scottsdale's coolest new venue. Owner's Marte and Apolo Sevilla are club owning entrepreneurs from Cancun Mexico, and they hope to bring some of that Cancun pressence to the Scottsdale nightlife.

The owners feel Scottsdale bars and clubs are lacking both customer service and real entertainment. So what can you expect from the new Cream Stereo Lounge?

By offering an affordable tapas menu and swankier decor, Mill Avenue's newest nightspot hopes to distinguish itself from nearby clubs and bars.

Tempe's Vintage Lounge opens Dec. 20, catering to Arizona State University students and area regulars. The second-story storefront at Fourth Street and Mill Avenue once housed the Coconut Club, which closed earlier this year due to liquor-licensing troubles.

Vintage Lounge owner Mark Brown is optimistic about the area's appetite for a more upscale club, one that's slightly less casual, less college-focused.