Poker fans all over the world (and there are millions of them now) will be looking to the Rio Hotel-Casino this week in anticipation of the crowning of a new world champion. The nine remaining players in the game's most prestigious event will sit down on Saturday to determine the new champ and the winner of an $8.5 million first prize. This year's table mix will be different than in years past, as it includes one of poker's biggest superstars, Phil Ivey (currently in seventh place). After a quick editing job, the event will be aired on ESPN on Nov. 10.

GOOD PR: The Orleans has an outstanding deal on a complete prime rib dinner in the Courtyard Café. It comes with an eight-ounce cut of meat (with au jus and horseradish), soup or salad, choice of potato, rolls, dessert and a drink — all for $9.99. The dessert alone is worth half, since you choose from the full dessert menu, where items start at $4.49. The special runs from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

BEST ON MONDAYS: You can get a free hot dog and a beer at the Monday Night Football parties at Sam's Town and Suncoast, but here's one that's even better. The party in Stoney's at Santa Fe — with unlimited chips and hot dogs — is free. Domestic bottled beers are $2, but $5 gets you a wristband for unlimited drafts throughout the game.

Q: Last week you wrote that Garth Brooks will play at Encore. Do you have more information?

A. Garth Brooks' return to the stage was as big a draw as expected, causing his first 15 dates to sell out in minutes. However, the agreement with Encore is for five years at 15 weeks per year, and Brooks insisted that only 200 seats be held for comps for any show, so you'll have your shot. Tickets for all seats are $143 after taxes and fees.