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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Sunday, July 9, 2006

GOING VEGAS
World Series of Poker in play at the Rio

By Anthony Curtis

The 37th World Series of Poker, probably the biggest gambling event in the world, is under way. This year's tournament, June 25 to Aug. 10, is being held at the Rio. When the $10,000-buy-in No-Limit Texas Hold 'Em World Championship tournament concludes, it will mark the first time it's been played at a venue other than Binion's Horseshoe. This year's meet is expected to smash all records, with the final alone expected to draw more than 8,000 players and have a first prize as high as $12.5 million. This year will also be the first for the HORSE tournament, in which players will compete in five games — hold 'em, Omaha, razz, stud, and high-low split/eight or better. The entry fee is $50,000. Tournaments are open to the public to play (for an entry fee) or observe (for free).

MEAL DEALS: At the Rio, the Mexican eatery Bamboleo has half-off appetizers and margaritas weekdays (4 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m.) and weekends (3 to 4 p.m. and 9 to 11 p.m.). Hamada has an all-you-can-eat sushi deal for $29 from 5 to 11 p.m. daily.

MIRACLE MILE: The Shops in Desert Passage will be renamed the Miracle Mile Shops as part of a redesign. "Miracle Mile" was the term applied in the late '90s to the Mandalay Resorts' casinos stretching from Excalibur to MBay, but it never caught on. The new Miracle Mile is due to debut in 2007.

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