MGM Mirage will invest in the M Resort, an 80-acre mixed-use development that will be located on the far south end of Las Vegas Boulevard (the Strip), approximately 9 miles south of Mandalay Bay. Construction is scheduled to begin within the month, with an anticipated debut in mid-2009. On the flip side, another big mixed-use project, W, has been officially canceled. The ambitious condo-hotel-casino, which was to be built next to the Hard Rock, is the third project along east-of-the-Strip Harmon Avenue to be scuttled in the past two years.

WORLD SERIES OF POKER: The biggest gambling event in the known universe, the World Series of Poker, gets under way at the Rio Friday and runs to the final table of the $10,000-buy-in, no-limit Texas hold 'em championship July 17. There will be 55 "bracelet events" this year, including the $50,000 buy-in H.O.R.S.E. event beginning June 15 and the main event beginning July 6.

POKER ROOM DOWN: Bucking a three-year trend of poker-room openings, the Fiesta Rancho Casino has closed its poker room. The small area will be used to add more slot machines.

BUFFET BACK: Las Vegas' best buffet is back in its old spot downstairs at Planet Hollywood, after spending a few months in a ballroom during the changeover from the former Aladdin. The Spice Market Buffet features several food stations. On any given day you'll find sushi, crab legs, fresh shrimp, prime rib, turkey, and creative desserts, plus lots of good salad and vegetable offerings. Breakfast is $13.99, lunch is $16.99, and dinner is $24.99.

For information about Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons and deals, see www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.