Poker World Series kicks off with prize of at least $10M

While it may seem as though the latest World Series of Poker champion was crowned only yesterday (actually, it was in November), the time has already come to look for the next champ. The 45th World Series of Poker began last week at the Rio in Las Vegas, where 65 "bracelet events" will be contested over the next month.

The Main Event begins July 5 and runs through July 14, when the November Nine final-table players will be decided. For the first time, the champion is guaranteed at least a $10 million prize, which celebrates the 10th anniversary of the tournament being held at the Rio. The $1 million buy-in Big One for One Drop tournament will be played June 29 and could produce a winner’s share of more than $20 million. Viewing of all tournaments is open to the public.

Dollar oysters: Head to a new west-side restaurant called District One Kitchen & Bar (3400 S. Jones) for $1 oysters on the half shell. The oysters and other specialties are available during happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Po’ boys only: Emeril’s at MGM Grand has instituted a three-course po’ boy lunch special for $19, available 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. The meal comes with a starter, choice of sandwich and choice of dessert, including Emeril’s famous banana cream pie.

Airport pharmacy: McCarran International Airport has opened a medical clinic and full-service pharmacy with licensed medical providers on staff. It also offers a selection of toiletries and sundries that are TSA-approved to carry on planes.

QUESTION: You wrote that the new "Street Dice" game at the Downtown Grand is a variation of craps. What’s the variation?

ANSWER: Players have only three rolls to make an established point before sevening out, as opposed to unlimited rolls in the traditional game. However, winners are paid at higher odds to compensate. The result is a casino edge of about 5 percent compared with only 1.4 percent for regular craps.

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