The powers behind the adult magazine Penthouse are seeking a "significant" presence on the Las Vegas Strip. Despite — or maybe because of — the current down cycle, the company says now may be the time to buy, with an eye toward creating a branded "casino and pool." The idea is not without precedent. A couple years back, Maxim magazine made a half-hearted effort at getting into the game, and, of course, the Playboy Club at the Palms continues to thrive. Penthouse currently has a branded gentlemen's club west of the south Strip.

FREE CLASSES: Learn the ins and outs of video poker by attending free weekly seminars on Tuesdays at South Point. They're taught by video poker guru Bob Dancer, with an early class geared for beginners running from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and a second class for more experienced players running from 3 to 4 p.m. Classes are held in the South Point showroom.

CHEAP LOVE: Get 25 percent off tickets to "Love" at the Mirage, for dates from now through Feb. 27, by booking online at Mirage.com. The discount is for specified levels of seating and for limited dates, but this is a rare discount for this show.

PLANET PEEPS: "Peepshow" will be the new production show at Planet Hollywood, replacing the departing "Stomp Out Loud." It's being described as "modern burlesque" and will star "Dancing With the Stars" luminary Kelly Monaco and ex-Spice Girl (Scary) Mel B. Preview performances are scheduled to begin March 30, with tickets in the $59-$149 range.

Q. What's the verdict on the new Aliante Station?

A. An amazing place, especially considering the location. Aliante is similar to Red Rock Resort in that it's upscale enough to be a Strip property, but located way out of town — in this case, the far north side of town at Aliante Parkway and 215. All the restaurants and bars are operating and priced well. It's worth the trek.

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