Boyd Gaming is selling back the South Coast casino to former owner and founder of Coast Casinos, Michael Gaughan. Boyd acquired South Coast as part of its 2004 $1.3 billion merger with Coast Casinos, but the property on the south end of the Strip has underperformed since opening in late 2005. Since Boyd retains the rights to the Coast name and brand, it's necessary that South Coast be renamed. Though not official, local reports indicate that the new name will be South Point.

ADVANCE CHECK: The Venetian has partnered with McCarran Airport to introduce Airport SpeedCheck Advance, a service that allows guests to bypass airport lines by checking their luggage and receiving boarding passes at the casino. The service costs $20 and is available from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily via a check-in desk in the Convention Center. Passengers must present valid ID and drop off luggage at least three hours before departure.

VIDEO POKER LESSONS: Video poker is one of the best gambles in the casino, but only when played correctly. You can learn to play this game proficiently by attending free video-poker lessons taught by Bob Dancer. Classes are Tuesdays at the Twin Creeks Steak House in the Silverton casino. Beginner classes are at 10 a.m., intermediate classes at noon.

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