HOTEL32 opened at the Monte Carlo less than a week ago. This hotel-within-a-hotel on the 32nd floor is a result of the casino's rooftop fire in January 2008, as it was created in lieu of simply replacing the damaged areas. A private express elevator serves the 50 rooms and suites, which range in size from 850 to 2,000 square feet. There's also a "suite assistant" (to escort and orient guests to the rooms), concierge and butler services, and the lounge32 looking over the skyline of the CityCenter complex next door. The Monte Carlo has designed HOTEL32 to vie for Five Diamond and Five Star ratings.

DR. FEELGOOD'S: The opening is a few months past schedule, but the non-casino nightclub Dr. Feelgood's has finally debuted on Sahara Avenue, about 5 miles west of the Strip. The club is owned by Motley Cru frontman Vince Neil and is named for one of the band's biggest hits. The original is in West Palm Beach, Fla.

GARTH: Reports are swirling that Garth Brooks has signed a 16-week headliner deal with Encore to begin in October. Encore continues to deny that a deal is set, but it's been rumored for a couple months and appears likely.

TIGER: Residents of North Las Vegas reported seeing a tiger wandering their streets last week. The tiger had escaped from the Fercos Brothers Untamed Illusions magic act. The big cat was eventually captured while it lounged in someone's backyard.

BALLY'S BOOK: The race and sports book at Bally's, closed since April 1, will reopen Aug. 26. The remodeled book will feature an exclusive VIP viewing area with high-def screens, couches, sports memorabilia and specialty cocktails.

Q: Football's coming. What's the best sports book this year?

With highly subjective assessments, it's often good to look at a large sample of opinions.

In a recent poll at www.LasVegasAdvisor.com (where you can see the complete results) that garnered almost 1,000 votes, the top three finishers for favorite sports book were the Las Vegas Hilton (18 percent), Caesars Palace (16 percent) and Orleans and Mirage (tied with 6 percent each).