The final-table players in the World Series of Poker’s Main Event have been determined. The traditional "November Nine" is the "October Nine" this year because the tournament will reconvene Oct. 28 to avoid coinciding with the presidential election.

The nine players who are about to become household names in poker circles are led by Jesse Sylvia with almost 44 million in chips, 14 million more than the second-biggest stack.

Last in the field is Jeremy Ausmus with just under 10 million. The ages of the players range from 21 to 56, with an average of 34.1 years old. Eight of the finalists are from the United States, and one is from Hungary. Seven of the finalists will win prizes in excess of $1 million, with the champion taking down $8.5 million.

» Girls on the bubble: While it looked like the women were about to break through with their first final-table representative since 1995, it wasn’t to be. Gaelle Baumann of France and Elisabeth Hille of Norway wound up 10th and 11th, respectively. Finishing one spot out of the money is known as "being on the bubble."

» Shrimp and dog: Get a taste of old Vegas at the downtown Fremont, where the Lanai Express snack bar offers one of the few remaining 99-cent shrimp cocktails in town, as well as old-style monster foot-long hot dogs for $2.99, or $3.99 with chili. Both are available throughout Lanai’s operating hours, 11 a.m. to 7 a.m. daily.

» Rebate down: One of Las Vegas’ most valuable gambling deals is no more: The $1,000 loss rebate at the Riviera has been discontinued. Other new-member players club promotions for lower amounts continue at Tropicana, Cannery, Eastside Cannery, Palms, Westin and the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Question: I want to see "Phantom of the Opera" before it closes. When is the last show in Las Vegas?

Answer: "Phantom — The Vegas Spectacular" runs through Sept. 2. There has been no word from the Venetian about a replacement for the custom-built Phantom of the Opera Theater.

For more information about Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons and good deals, go to www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.