Fewer casinos are holding pool parties this year, and they're all on the south side of the Strip. The new South Coast runs parties on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. There's a $7 admission charge, but that includes two drinks, food, and a book of casino coupons. Free parties take place at the Tropicana on Saturdays at 6 p.m. and at Hooters Thursdays to Sundays (afternoons and evenings); the Hooters parties may be the best of the bunch. The biggest pool party in town begins Sundays at noon at the Hard Rock. The big "Rehab" blowout is wild, but it costs $20 for women and $30 for men, and there's always a long line.

TROP DEAL: After fielding 16 offers from four casino companies over two months, Aztar, parent company of the Tropicana, finally accepted a bid by Columbia Sussex for $2.75 billion. Columbia also owns the Westin in Las Vegas. Long-term plans presumably call for the Tropicana to be replaced with a new megaresort.

BIG DOG: With the Westward Ho closed, the Slots A Fun snack bar can now claim — without an argument — the biggest hot dog in Sin City. The half-pound monster is $1.29. It's actually more fun to look at than it is to eat, but you can chop it up to feed two or three.

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