We first discovered Bob Benson‘s talents when we purchased a new ceiling fan in 2000. Bob was referred by the fan store, and he has proven to be a godsend. Bob is efficient, knowledgeable and has all of the tools necessary to fix just about anything. He prefers not to do plumbing repairs, but he more than makes up for that with his electrician and other skills. Bob can be reached at 702-568-9323.

Peter “Big Elvis” Vallee performs Monday through Friday at 3:00, 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. at Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall and Saloon (formerly the Barbary Coast) on the Strip. His remarkable ability to cover the King may be genetic. Vallee claims to be Elvis Presley’s love child. While his attempts to conduct DNA tests have been fruitless, his show is a perennial crowd pleaser and a great way to spend an hour if you’re nearby at the right time. I’ve taken visitors to the show — they always like it. The price is unbeatable, too: $0. More info is online here.

The very best meat loaf in Las Vegas…. Executive Chef, Tom McGrath, has created the best rendition of meat loaf I’ve ever eaten — and I think I my version of this classic meal is darn fine…. Very comfortable restaurant, with outdoor dining and superb placement of wide-screen TV’s and yet quiet and classy. I give this place my highest rating for a Nevada-style tavern.

For those interested in the latest trends in late night fashion, a real comfortable place to people watch is at the Parasol Up Lounge inside the Wynn. The small, circular lounge is slightly elevated off the gaming floor and the plush orange and black chairs are perfect for sinking into under the subdued lighting. Drinks are expensive but generously poured. Get there around 11 on a Friday or Saturday night to witness the parade of jet-setters and jet-setter wannabes heading towards either Blush or Tryst (the two nightclubs at the Wynn).

What I like best about this recreation center located just off the 215 at Green Valley Blvd and Paseo Verde in Henderson is that it offers two large swimming pools, one indoors and one outdoors. The outdoor one sports a water slide making it especially kid friendly. There is a large selection of inexpensive classes for both mind and body to choose from here. I especially like the yoga classes. A large, modern library with a coffee shop, as well as the outdoor Entertainment Pavilion are also within easy walking distance of the rec center, as is the Green Valley Ranch Spa & Casino.

Aliante Library sits just South of 215 & Aliante Parkway in North Las Vegas. Although it’s a fairly small building, it’s clean and has a good selection of books. The children’s area is comfortable and has a reading area in the back that includes a couple small tables and puzzle games. It’s set far enough away from the main library area that, if you have chatty kids, they won’t bother the adults trying to read. I recommend visiting! (2400 Deer Springs Way in North Las Vegas, NV 89084)

This large park near McCarran Airport hosts festivals and other events year round. It has tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, jogging trails, a dog area, and a picnic area with barbecues. There’s even a lake where you can fish! Feeding the ducks and geese is also a lot of fun — bring plenty of bread. What I like best are the large expanses of shaded lawn. It’s a lovely place to walk, run, or just relax. More information is online here.