First there was the astonishing drop in temperature. Then a mystical visage appeared on a toilet seat. But sometimes the real wonders are the ones we take for granted. Continue reading »

It only seems like the sky is falling... Ellen Ross shares some good news about how to preserve the value of your home. Continue reading »

Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, former mob lawyer and "the happiest mayor in the universe" celebrated his 70th birthday in true Sin City style: surrounded by showgirls and applauded by a crowd of fans. Oh -- and lots of gin. Continue reading »

A fast train between Las Vegas and Los Angeles might make the journey smooth and carefree, but in spite of accidents, traffic jams, and 3-digit summer temperatures, I'd miss the road trip charms of Interstate 15. Not to mention the Mad Greek's strawberry shakes. Continue reading »

Imagine the scene. Kings, queens and bishops lined up by the thousands in the Grand Ballroom of the South Point Hotel and Casino. Hundreds of battles waged simultaneously – gambits offered, attacks mounted, kings endangered. How is it possible that a major chess tournament has been held in Las Vegas for the last 25 years and I have known nothing about it? Continue reading »

I love this job. My publisher is handing out assignments, and the one I get is "My Top 5 Vegas Fantasies." Jackpots? Beautiful girls? Cushy jobs? Excess and extravagance? Surprisingly, after living here a couple of years my fantasies have changed. Continue reading »

Super Bowl 43 is coming up soon, time for football fans to place their bets and find a place to watch the action. Unless you scored tickets for the gridiron in Tampa, chances are you will be watching the game on a widescreen TV here in Vegas. Let me recommend three neighborhood bars with great seats and good beer. Continue reading »

Great weather, great atmosphere, great music, a lake view, freshly made gelato and no tourists – what better entertainment value is there in Vegas? Oh yeah, it’s all free too! Monte Lago Village is possibly the best-kept secret in Las Vegas. Even locals only share the tip with their closest friends, no doubt to the chagrin of the Lake Las Vegas proprietors. But I suspect that is starting to change and here’s why. Continue reading »