Sports betting is like a world all its own, and Las Vegas is the only place in the world where you can walk in and place a legal bet on sporting events. Unless that’s not true, in which case it sounds like it could be true, and that’s close enough, right?

Anyway, there’s no busier day in sports books, in the world, than on the day of the Big Game We Can’t Name Specifically. You know the one. The one we can’t say because of the lawyers. But it’s the national pro football championship event spectacular thingy. And it’s happening February 3, 2013. Unless that date is trademarked, too, in which case all hope is lost for humanity.

We didn't say it! It's a photo of an officially-sanctioned merchandise kiosk.

We’ll say right up front, this blog is not a sports betting expert. And by “not an expert,” we mean, “We know almost exactly nothing about sports betting.”

We do, however, know sports betting experts. We popped into the sports book at Rio Las Vegas to chat with David Pemberton, Director of Specialty Games, about some of the fun bets, called “prop bets,” surrounding the Big Game We Can’t Name Specifically.

Based upon his interaction with this blog, David Pemberton may be the most patient person in Nevada.

Right off the bat, we asked David for some bets everyone can make money on, guaranteed. Apparently, those don’t exist. Who knew? However, this didn’t deter us from learning more about prop bets.

“A lot of the prop bets are the same from year to year, but each game has its own custom bets,” says Pemberton. “We compile information from a variety of sources to determine the odds. The odds change, based upon betting patterns, right up to game day.”

Fact: People who work in sports books have large brains.

David Pemberton was kind enough to give us a crash course in prop bets. Prop bets are bets on things like “Which team will score first in the game?” and “Total touchdowns scored in the game.” Odds makers use math and research this blog doesn’t even remotely understand to determine the likelihood of the various outcomes.

What makes betting on the Big Game We Can’t Name Specifically so entertaining is the virtually infinite number of wacky bets on things like “Will the team that scores first win the game?” or “Will the jersey number of the player to score the first touchdown be more or less than 27 1/2?”

It gets even better! Try this one: “Total yards of the shortest successfully-made field goal in the game.” Or “Will either team score in the final minutes of the first half?” There’s even a prop bet for “Will either team score three consecutive times without the other team scoring?” There also one for “Will the Ravens convert a fourth down attempt?”

There are even bets related to specific players, a group of bets where bettors seem to do particularly well, Pemberton says: “Total receptions by Michael Crabtree,” “Will Frank Gore score a touchdown?,” “Total rushing yards by Ray Rice,” etc.

This is how our brain saw sports betting before our Pemberton crash course.

This blog’s favorite weird bet involves a player who, we’re pretty sure, doesn’t even play football: “Which will be greater on Feb. 3, LeBron James points or the 49ers points?”

Prop bets can be made at the sports book right up to the opening kick-off, then betting is closed. At least until halftime, when more betting is allowed for the second half of the game.

Pemberton says, “Our second half betting is very popular. Everybody rushes to the windows during the halftime show. We’re writing tickets until the very last minute. During the game, people can cash as the results come in, so you don’t have to wait until the game’s over to collect.”

If you’re baffled by all the bets, ask a sports book team member for assistance. Just avoid waiting until the last minute, because things get crazed on Big Game day. Bets similar to the Rio’s prop bets can be found in sports books across Las Vegas, including the ones at Caesars Entertainment casinos, because they pay this blog’s salary.

One of the easiest ways to bet on the Big Game We Can’t Name Specifically is to use a “parlay card.” It’s kind of the keno of sports betting (with better odds), or like a Pick 4 bet in horse racing. You choose one of two options for multiple bets (up to 10 bets at once). Heck, even this blog took a stab at it. We’ll let you know how it goes.

Trying to copy this blog's parlay card could very well the worst financial decision of your life.

Here’s some inside scoop that could give you a little edge: Take a look at the prop bet for “Which will occur first, a score or punt?” It’s been a punt for the last three Big Games. Another pattern: “Will there be a special teams or defensive touchdown scored in the game?” Yes, for the last three years. “Will either team score in the last two minutes of the first half?” That’s happened in the last three years, too.

Is sports betting an art or a science? We say both. So, who you rooting for in the Big Game We Can’t Name Specifically?

The “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is perhaps the world’s most recognizable sign ever in the expansive history of signs, objectively speaking.

The design of the Las Vegas sign is an example of the Googie architecture movement. And, no, we did not just make that up.

We recently ventured out to the sign to grab a time lapse of the sign as the sun set on The Strip.

During the two-hour window, you can get a sense of the popularity of the iconic sign as a photo op, with dozens, maybe hundreds, of people from around the world converging on the sign, snapping away with pretty much every imaginable digital device.

Take a look.

This time lapse video was made with hundreds of photos, taken at 10-second increments.

In just that two-hour span, there were brides and grooms, families, models, Elvis impersonators, tour groups and people of myriad cultures and backgrounds and ages.

They all had one thing in common.

They were all brimming with excitement to be in Las Vegas and couldn’t wait to capture and share that excitement with the people in their lives. Perhaps not surprisingly, we totally get that.

It is with mixed feelings this blog reiterates the fact Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon will shut its doors on Feb. 4, 2013.

The popular hotel, at the corner of Flamingo Boulevard and Las Vegas Boulevard, is set for a multi-million dollar renovation and will re-open with a new name (we vote for “Pulse of Vegas Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon”) in early 2014.

Temporary sad face.

That means all the things we’ve loved doing at Bill’s will have to be done elsewhere, at least for the time being. Here’s our top 11, probably because we don’t entirely grasp the metric system.

1. Beer Pong

It’s a captivating combination of alcohol, balls and trash talk, and now we’ll have to seek out another location for all our beer pong needs. Two great options are inside The Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, just south on The Strip a bit. Blondies Sports Bar & Grill and DB’s Pong and Pool have everything serious beer pong players (oxymoron, if ever there were one) could desire.

Look at the ball jokes we're not making. This blog's maturity level is truly epic.

2. Big Elvis

Pete “Big Elvis” Vallee, was a talent too large for Bill’s to contain, so he moved to Harrah’s Las Vegas a few months ago. Catch his free show at the piano bar. Phew. That was an easy one. By the way, when we asked Pete how many shows he did while at Bill’s (and before that, Barbary Coast), he said 7,000. Wow.

B.E. T.C.B. at H.L.V.

On a related note: Another Vegas institution, lounge icon Cook E. Jarr, will also grab a spot at Harrah’s. He’ll perform each Saturday and Sunday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., starting Feb. 9, 2013.

If you haven't done a Cook E. Jarr show, you haven't done Vegas.

3. Rapid Craps

A hybrid version of craps, Rapid Craps, has been exclusively at Bill’s for years, and loyal fans of the game were worried it would disappear when Bill’s closes. However, we’re pleased to provide a Pulse of Vegas blog exclusive: There are tentative plans to move Rapid Craps to The Quad. Crisis averted.

Rapid Craps is expected to re-emerge at The Quad, like an electronic phoenix of some sort.

4. Poker

The intimate poker room at Bill’s hosted many lively games, but there are plenty of alternatives nearby. Poker fanatics can try the famed poker room at Caesars Palace, across the street, or the poker rooms at Bally’s Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood.

You were small, but nevertheless adorbs, Bill's Poker Room.

5. Nightclubbing

We hear Drai’s Nightclub at Bill’s will take up temporary digs while Bill’s is being renovated, but a location hasn’t officially been announced yet. Until we get more scoop, get up off your thang (if people still do that) at Pure Nightclub at Caesars Palace or Chateau Nightclub at Paris Las Vegas.

Vegas is full of places to get your "oontz" on.

6. Show Tickets

The Tix4Tonight Half Price Shows booth was a hit at Bill’s. There are other locations around Las Vegas, including downtown. Check out the alternatives here.

We're pretty sure tearing your ticket in half invalidates it. We're just saying.

7. Western Union

Yes, Bill’s had a full-fledged Western Union office. While weird, people liked it. Come to find out, you can pick up money wired through Western Union at the cashier cage at Harrah’s Las Vegas. Which we should have known before an Internet search two minutes ago. Hey, you try fitting all this stuff in one brain.

Western Union may have other signs, but they'll never be as fancy as the one at Bill's Gamblin' Hall.

8. Steakhouse at Bill’s

This joint was old-school Vegas, and had a loyal following. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of steakhouses on The Strip that provide delicious eats and world-class service. Try Center Cut Steakhouse at Flamingo Las Vegas, Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas, the new Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Harrah’s or this blog’s personal favorite, Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace.

There are plenty of other restaurants in Vegas that will take care of your meat. Umm, about that maturity thing.

9. Slushy Drinks

We’d grown emotionally attached to some of the great beverages at Slush inside Bill’s, but Las Vegas has never been at a loss for those frosty diversions. Drop by Numb at Harrah’s or Caesars Palace, Margaritaville or Carlos’n Charlie’s at Flamingo and Fat Tuesday at The Quad. Also try Cabo Wabo Cantina or PBR Rock Bar at Planet Hollywood. Oh, and let’s not forget Evening Call at Rio and Bally’s. Vegas definitely knows slushy.

You'll still be greatly missed, Vegas Vice.

10. Craps Lessons

The free craps lessons at Bill’s drew crowds. But here’s the thing: They were at 10:30 a.m. Chances are, if you visit ANY craps table in Vegas at 10:30 a.m., you’ll find idle dealers more than happy to give you a craps lesson. During lulls, dealers are happy to share the basics and their insights from years of watching the highs and lows of the world’s greatest casino game. Objectively speaking, of course.

Craps, the cause of, and answer to, all of life's problems.

11. Go-Go Dancers

Oh, no! If we can’t see go-go dancers at Bill’s, where on Earth will we ever see go-go dancers in Las Vegas? Yeah, right. Sin City always has a back-up plan. Find a slew of shimmying seductresses in the Pussycat Doll blackjack pit at Caesars Palace, onstage in the casinos at Rio and Flamingo, in the Pleasure Pit at Planet Hollywood or in the Ooh La La Party Pit at Paris. Please note, we’re only sharing this video because we like the music.

So, after an appropriate period of mourning over the loss of Bill’s, get out there and find other great places in Las Vegas to play, eat, drink and drink. Oh, did we say “drink” twice? How ever did that happen?

The construction wall at Nobu Restaurant and Lounge at Caesars Palace has come down as the new establishment readies to open on Feb. 4, 2013, which means we finally get a peek at this much-anticipated new restaurant.

While still a work-in-progress, we couldn’t resist poking our camera in to snap a few “under construction” photos.

This blog's chopsticks are at the ready.

The new Nobu Restaurant is a whopping 12,775 square feet, making it famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s largest to-date. There are 24 Nobu restaurants worldwide.

The restaurant at Caesars Palace was designed by architect and designer David Rockwell.

Let there be light. Fixtures.

Nobu Restaurant has a sushi bar, a private dining area and a distinctive exterior inspired by traditional Japanese ikebana baskets. The restaurant seats 325 people.

Ikebana, by the way, is the traditional art of flower-arranging. Yes, this blog reads from time to time. As a last resort, of course.

The interior features natural design elements including stone, wood and paper. The interior also sports patterned, private “dining pods” and over-sized light fixtures, inspired by Japanese tea whisks.

The aforementioned whisk-inspired lights, we presume.

The menu will have a wide selection of dishes including Nobu’s signature black cod with miso, rock shrimp tempura, yellowtail sashimi with jalapeno and squid pasta. Note: Dibs on “Squid Pasta” as a band name.

Also unique to Nobu Restaurant and Lounge at Caesars Palace will be teppanyaki (iron griddle) tables, the first time a Nobu restaurant in the U.S. has had them.

No, way! Has Cleopatra's Way has been renamed to Nobu Way? Yes, way.

The restaurant’s opening coincides with the Feb. 4 opening of the first-of-its-kind Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace.

On what we assume is a related note: Hyakumi restaurant at Caesars Palace will no longer serve dinner after Feb. 1, 2013. The restaurant will, however, continue to serve lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

More news about Nobu Restaurant and Lounge at Caesars Palace to come!

The name’s a little funky to remember at first, but once you’ve tasted the food at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, now open at Harrah’s Las Vegas, you’ll quickly get past it.

Say this five times, fast.

To clarify, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is named after Ruth Fertel, the founder of the popular chain of restaurants. She originally bought a restaurant named Chris Steak House in New Orleans, and decided to keep “Chris” as part of the name. Now you know.

The new joint looks great, including two private dining areas.

Fancy, but not snooty. Unless you like snooty. They can probably make it snooty if you ask nicely.

Let’s see some food, already!

Let's eat. This is the Seared Ahi Tuna appetizer. We tried to make parts of it blurry so it would be more popular on Pinterest.

Life’s too short to only have one appetizer. You can quote us on that.

The sliced tomato and onion salad seemed to be on every table during our visit.

The new restaurant at Harrah’s, formerly The Range, is the 137th Ruth’s Chris Steak House. So, unlike with many new restaurants, you know what you’re getting here, and what you’re getting is one of the finest selections of filets, ribeyes, New York strip, T-bone and porterhouse steaks anywhere on the Las Vegas Strip. And signature cocktails. Did we mention those yet?

Another "appetizer." The Ginger Coconut Lemon Drop. Don't judge.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House has a traditional steakhouse vibe, with two bars, not that we’re counting.

We always liked this bar, so we were happy to see it didn't go anywhere.

The artwork reflects the restuarant’s New Orleans roots, as well as its new home center-Strip at Harrah’s.

A little jazz, plus a nod to Harrah's New Orleans (upper right).

Although it’s not on the menu, the restaurant also boasts one of the better views on The Strip.

Thanks for the light show, Forum Shops.

The steaks are the stars of the show, as you might suspect. They’re broiled in Ruth’s Chris Steak House’s trademark 1,800-degree oven and served on a 500-degree plate. This blog loves its steak hot, so this practice is revelatory and we’re not quite sure how we were able to enjoy steak before now.

Like buttah.

Naturally, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is more than steak, with a tasty variety of appetizers, family-style sides, salads and desserts, as well as an extensive wine list and the aforementioned handcrafted cocktails. Emphasis on “handcrafted cocktails,” of course.

Blueberries are a fruit, so theoretically, your mom would approve of this Blueberry Mojito.

Appetizers include barbecued shrimp (photograph below, and currently in our belly), seared ahi tuna and mushrooms stuffed with crabmeat.

There's nothing shrimpy about the barbecued shrimp.

For an entree, we opted for the filet, and our dining companion went for the Cowboy Ribeye (below). Both were great, but please note the Cowboy Ribeye is as large as a surfboard. Fair warning.

Bring a large, hungry friend.

Sides are served in ample portions, with all your favorites like creamed spinach, potatoes au gratin, sweet potato cassarole (so sweet, some customers order it a la mode, no kidding), sauteed mushrooms and others.

The desserts threaten to steal the show, with offerings like creme brulee, bread pudding with whiskey sauce, banana cream pie, fresh berries and sweet cream, and cheesecake. Our favorite was the Chocolate Explosion, a devil’s food cake with a warm, chocolate center, topped with vanilla ice cream and fresh caramel sauce.

The Chocolate Explosion may actually replace your spouse.

Help us welcome Ruth’s Chris Steak House to Harrah’s Las Vegas, preferably not by diving headlong into your Chocolate Explosion cake, because somebody’s going to have to clean that up.

Enjoy a few more photos, several of which are even in focus, in our exclusive gallery.

Cruising The Strip, we were happy to see the near-complete new escalator just outside PBR Rock Bar inside The Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood.

Construction of the $2 million escalator seems to have happened in record time.

Escalator steps move 1-2 feet per second. Not that you need any more useless information in your brain.

Currently, when pedestrians reach the end of the overhead walkway at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue, heading toward Planet Hollywood, they only have the option of going south, or away from Planet Hollywood.

The new escalator will make visiting The Miracle Mile Shops and Planet Hollywood much more convenient, which is good, because there are, among other things, cocktails inside.

The escalator is being built to “balance the flow of traffic,” which, of course, when translated, means, “Um, hello, potential customers, over this way!”

We look forward to our first ride on the new escalator, because in Las Vegas, it’s not just an escalator, it’s an “adrenaline-fueled altitude-defying attraction experience destination.” Or something.

A slew of stars, including Jason Statham and Jennifer Lopez, came out to stroll the red carpet at Planet Hollywood for the premiere of a new action flick, “Parker.”

Spoiler alert: In "Parker," Statham uses a handgun clip as a knife. Just to provide a sense of the film's milieu.

Jason Statham has made a tradition of opening his films at Planet Hollywood, saying, “I love this place. I’ve been coming here who knows how long. Maybe a dozen years. And every time I come, I always have a good time.” “The Mechanic” and “The Expendables” also made their debut at Planet Hollywood.

Jason Statham took a few moments to schmooze with fans, and we grabbed some video with the Pulse of Vegas Cam. Patent pending. Pointlessly, but pending.

We’re thinking of calling it The Shaky Cam. Now, back to the red carpet excitement! Look, it’s Jennifer Lopez!

We're not going to pander to the lowest common denominator by sharing a gratuitous photo of Jennifer Lopez from the back, sorry.

In “Parker,” Statham plays a crook who’s double-crossed by his crew and left for dead. Parker seeks his revenge, eventually calling upon the assistance of Jennifer Lopez’s character, who spends a good deal of the movie walking away from the camera, if you know what we’re saying. (We are not making this up.)

Are you familiar with this blog at all?

The film is based upon “Flashfire,” the 19th in a series of novels about the character, written by Donald Westlake under the name Richard Stark. Who we think was also Iron Man, but we’re too busy to look that up.

“Parker” is directed by bigtime director Taylor Hackford, who we snapped roaming the Planet Hollywood casino. Hackford also directed “An Officer and a Gentleman,” “Dolores Claiborne,” “The Devil’s Advocate” and “Ray.”

No, Taylor Hackford isn't related to Taylor Hicks. It doesn't work like that.

Statham commented, tongue-in-cheek, “Taylor [Hackford] pushed me in a different direction I’m not used to going in. I’m used to beating up tons of people, and doing things very efficiently. But Taylor really wanted me to get hurt, wanted me to bleed. He wanted me to sweat and be out of breath and be in pain, and I didn’t like it, not for one minute.”

A host of Vegas performers also hit the red carpet, including the event’s host and The Quad comedian-juggler, Jeff Civillico. Civillico gave Statham a run for his money, having recently been named one of the hunkiest headliners in Las Vegas.

Mention the hunk thing to Jeff Civillico after his show. He never fails to blush.

Also giving cameras a workout were “American Idol” alum Taylor Hicks (now performing at Napoleon’s at Paris Vegas) and Anthony Cools, comedy-magician at Paris.

Taylor Hicks recently extended his contract to perform through 2013 at Paris Las Vegas.

“Peepshow” stars Coco Austin, Cheaza and Josh Strickland kept the flashes popping.

Yep, that's the same Coco from "Ice Loves Coco" on the E! channel.

Former “Peepshow” star Holly Madison showed off her seven-months-pregnant baby bump, to the glee of fans the phalanx of photographers in attendance. You just never know who you’ll bump into in Sin City, baby.

This blog was ready with towels and boiling water, just in case.

Rounding out the roster of celebrities were comedian Carrot Top, celebrity chef Carla Pellegrino, model Claire Sinclair (below) and fighter and action star Randy Couture.

Claire Sinclair will soon star in her very own Las Vegas show, "Pin Up." Look it up on the Google.

Enjoy a few more nearly-in-focus pics from the “Parker” red carpet at Planet Hollywood in our exclusive gallery.

We’ll own up to having cravings from time to time. Maybe we’re pregnant. Although we hope not, since our cravings, quite often, involve cocktails.

Las Vegas is to cocktails what Middle Earth is to dwarves. Although, granted, in a much less nerdy way. We’ve put together an all-star list of 10 cocktails we’re craving right now, and which may also serve as reminder of just how wonderful life is.

1. HK Antioxidant at Gordon Ramsay Steak

The HK stands for “Hell’s Kitchen” (Chef Gordon Ramsay’s hit reality cooking show) of course, but you’ll be in heaven when your face closes in on this flavorful concoction. Want to make one? Muddle 15 blueberries and the juice of a lemon in a pint glass. Add ice, an ounce of agave and two ounces VeeV acai liqueur and shake. Fill a rocks glass with ice, double strain your mixture and garnish with fresh mint leaves and blueberries. Find it at Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas.

If you can't stand the heat, this.

2. Negroni at Old Homestead Steakhouse

A Negroni is equal parts Beefeater 24 gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, whatever that might be. We got ours at Old Homestead Steakhouse inside Caesars Palace. This drink is especially delicious because it was named after an Italian Count, Count Camillo Negroni. This seemingly useless trivia could help you win some serious clams on a game show someday.

Like a shiatsu massage for your tongue.

3. Pink Velvet at Eiffel Tower Restaurant

The Pink Velvet, served at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant boasts Grey Goose, watermelon liquor, pomegranate syrup, pineapple juice, lime juice, Angostura Bitters and one of the best views in town.

Our next band name: Pink Velvet.

4. Sangria at Carlos’n Charlie’s

Carlos’n Charlie’s at Flamingo Las Vegas knows liquor. Their traditional sangria has layers of flavors, all intended to put you into the mood to make sweet love to a complete stranger in a photo booth. (Actual results may vary.)

It's akin to archeology, except with a buzz.

5. Caipirinha de Uva at Central By Michel Richard

The Caipirinha de Uva is a signature cocktail at Central restaurant (and bar, ahem) at Caesars Palace. It’s so good, we don’t even care that “Uva” sounds like something you’d learn about in an anatomy class. This cocktail features Cachaca, grapes, basil, honey and lime.

Bonus: "Cachaca" sounds like the sound of a coin coming out of a slot machine.

6. Margarona at Yolös Mexican Grill

This blog isn’t really a beer drinker, but this combo won us over. This is the Margarona, served at Yolös Mexican Grill at Planet Hollywood, complete with an up-ended Coronita.

The Margarona once auditioned for Cirque. True fact.

7. White Violet at Payard Patisserie & Bistro

The White Violet, exclusively at Payard in Caesars Palace, has Sauvignon Blanc, violet syrup and muddled basil, garnished with Payard’s lavender honey, basil and an edible flower.

An even better band name: Lavender Honey and the Basils.

8. Amazonian at Carnival Buffet

The Carnival World Buffet at Rio Las Vegas is known for many things. But along with food as far as the eye can see, it should be known for the Amazonian. This 45-ounce monster has Midori (a melon liqueur), Berry Vodka and Blue Curacao liqueur.

Suitable for sharing. With a football team.

9. Swedish Fish at Sugar Factory

Sugar Factory at Paris Las Vegas has an uncanny knack for adding sweet twists to its signature drinks. The Swedish Fish is like licking a gummi fish while getting a foot rub in an IKEA. Or something.

Sugar rush delivery device.

10. Caramel Apple Martini at Center Cut Steakhouse

A martini at Center Cut Steakhouse at Flamingo Vegas is the best way to enjoy your meat to its fullest. And if you read anything into that, you’re a lot less mature than this blog thought.

Writer E.B. White called martinis the "elixir of quietude," because you can never have too many band names.

We’d share more Las Vegas cocktails, but that would involve: 1) Amending the title of this blog post and, 2) you being even less productive. And we wouldn’t want that.

Our post about Free Vegas Shows That Aren’t Shows got us thinking we should share more photos of the High Roller observation wheel construction site. As if we need an excuse. It’s a mind-blower.

In Vegas, it's go big or go home.

There have been a number of deliveries in recent days, with some key parts of the High Roller (crown jewel of the massive Linq project, courtesy of Caesars Entertainment) being unveiled, like the wheel’s larger-than-life hub pieces (below).

Don't try to measure these hub pieces. Your measuring tape will get a hernia.

The hub revolves around a spindle. There are also bearings involved. Who has time to read up on all this? We’re too busy taking photos.

Sprouting out from the hub, like spokes on a bicycle tire, will be a number of massive cables (never photographed, until now), with each coil of cable stretching more than 240 feet. At least that’s what one of the guy’s with a hard hat said. Just before he called security. We do know the cables were made in France, which makes them extra fancy.

The things we do for an exclusive! Including, specifically, "looking under a tarp." Please note the helical grooves, whatever those might be.

Here’s a close-up, now can you see the helical grooves?

Great band name: The Helical Grooves.

The main structure itself is already incredibly tall, but additional leg segments are expected to be installed in the next week or two.

Yes, those are full-grown humans in there.

Also on the agenda is the raising of the “kickstand” (braced leg) segment of the wheel. This leg will be perpendicular to The Strip.

This is the base (called a "plinth") of the support leg. Plinths are known for their patriotism.

Let’s just say that when you see the High Roller construction site in person, you’re struck by two things: 1) This isn’t entirely possible. 2) Yeah, that first thing.

Despite it’s apparent impossibility, the High Roller is, in fact, happening, and in dramatic style.

"We resent being included in these photos just to provide some scale," these construction workers would probably say if they knew we were taking their photo.

There are a number of other wheel parts we can’t entirely identify, but let’s just say they’re larger than your mother-in-law.

What? That’s not sexist. It’s just a fact. Oh, all right, it’s also larger than your father-in-law. Yawn.

There's a good chance these are parts of the spindle. Confirming this would take "effort," so we'll just pass for now.

It feels like giant new pieces of the High Roller are being bolted and welded into place daily. We’re trying to keep up, but we are a Las Vegas blog, not omniscient.

This is new. This area is where people will hang out before and after they wheel.

Here’s a little video snippet from the High Roller site, which we were dying to share again, so thanks.

We’re excited to see what’s next with this unparalleled feat of engineering. And this time, we’re not even blowing marketing smoke up your dress (or pants, happy?). It is actually unparalleled, and a feat, and it does involve engineering. So, there.

Today's job we don't want? Walking on that scaffolding, yes, way up there.

If you’re curious about the status of Skyvue, that other much-discussed observation wheel on the south end of The Strip (the High Roller is center-Strip, behind Flamingo Las Vegas, The Quad and Harrah’s), well, it’s probably a good time to lower your expectations.

More updates to come!

The best things in life are free, and that applies to Las Vegas, too. Here are eight free “shows” in Las Vegas you won’t want to miss.

1. Noodle-Making at Beijing Noodle No. 9

Every day at Beijing Noodle No. 9 at Caesars Palace, classically-trained chefs make Chinese noodles the old-fashioned way, by hand. Their skill is a wonder to behold. See more.

2. The High Roller

Construction of the High Roller observation wheel, which will be the world’s tallest, is underway behind Flamingo Las Vegas and The Quad. It’s an awe-inspiring work of engineering, and each day brings with it some mammoth new part or segment or crane. We could just sit and watch the activity on the site for hours (and have).

The hubs are here, the hubs are here! Sorry, we get excited.

It’s hard to adequately describe the scale of this project, so we stopped by and grabbed some video.

3. Bull Riding at PBR Rock Bar

Even if you don’t have the brass ones to mount the mechanical bull yourself, others taking on the beast at PBR Rock Bar in Planet Hollywood is a great spectacle. Get some bullriding tips.

4. Craps Tables

A full craps table exudes the essence of Las Vegas casinos. The chips fly, the language is colorful, and fortunes hang in the balance. Hang out near any craps table in Vegas and you’ll not only get great, free entertainment, but you may even pick up a tip or two. (If you’ve never rolled the dice before, give it a try, and if you get on a hot streak, as “virgins” so often do, a “whale” may even give you a literal tip.)

Craps is our National Sport of the United States of America. And that's the story we're sticking to.

5. Cooking at Hyakumi

The food at Hyakumi, inside Caesars Palace, isn’t the only star of the show. Chefs prepare your food, teppanyaki-style, right before your eyes. See more.

6. Ice Cream-Making at IcePan

One of this blog’s favorite treats is the ice cream at IcePan in Harrah’s Las Vegas. Part of the fun is watching the ice cream take shape, starting from liquid form.

IcePan ice cream has no preservatives and many fewer calories than regular ice cream. It’s like magic ice cream. And if you try it, and don’t agree, we’ll eat another scoop of IcePan ice cream just so we learn our lesson.

It's a happy place, all year round.

7. People-Watching

People-watching will always be one of the best free shows in Las Vegas. Head downtown to the Fremont Street Experience, or grab a table at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas or Cabo Wabo Cantina at Planet Hollywood, or heck, just pick a spot on a bus stop bench. Then, just watch as humanity does what it does.

Mon Ami Gabi translates as "Yes, it's French, but not the snooty kind of French."

8. Flair Bartending

Las Vegas is the flair bartending capital of the universe. The Strip is dotted with bars, and where there are bars in Las Vegas, there are often flair bartenders. These folks spend countless hours perfecting their juggling, twirling and bottle-balancing skills.

No bottles were injured in the making of this blog post. Probably.

Here’s a look at some “flairtending” at Slush inside Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall.

There’s free entertainment all around in Las Vegas. You just have to know where to look.

If you doubt whether Vegas has a great sense of humor, check out the anti-Valentine’s Day special menu at Sugar Factory American Brasserie restaurant inside Paris Las Vegas.

No cherubs were harmed during the making of this advertisement.

The prix fixe (French for, “I hate doing math”) menu is four courses, $40 a person, and eschews the traditional, lovey-dovey schmoogling typically associated with Valentine’s Day.

After a first course of garlic soup (how better to avoid someone wanting to kiss you?), the appetizer (below) takes a clever jab at love.

This isn't the clever part. This is the tasty part.

Seems innocent enough, right? It’s just arancini (fried rice balls coated with breadcrumbs), right? Wrong. Cut into the balls and a smoked salt beet gelee gives the “Bleeding Heart” its desired, anti-Valentine’s Day effect.

Both clever and delicious.

The entree course is called “The Separation,” and features cider braised beef short ribs, grilled prawn, candied fennel and a crispy potato web.

"Honey, you're beef. I'm a prawn. I'm sure you're going to make someone else very happy someday."

Dessert is referred to as “Cold Hearted,” a delicious vanilla semifreddo with pistachio butter and burnt cherry compote.

Cold heart, but happy taste buds.

This blog is going to continue to pretend we know what semifreddo is.

Insider tip: If you break up before dessert comes, you won't have to share.

Of course, no visit to Sugar Factory is complete without a signature cocktail. Start off with a Minty Moscow Mule.

Bonus: If you call your date a Minty Moscow Mule, you'll be well on your way to the best anti-Valentine's Day ever.

To deaden your heartbreak, follow up with a 36-ounce goblet drink like the Hawaiian Crush, complete with a dry ice cloud to shroud your heart during this most awkward of holidays. Or something.

Sure, it's 36 bucks, but it's not like you'll be spending any money on a gift for your significant other, so drink up!

The Sugar Factory’s special menu is available only on Feb. 14, 2013, 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Find out more about Sugar Factory American Brasserie restaurant.

Two new tribute shows have opened at V Theater inside The Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, “Country Superstars” and “Tribute Royalty.”

If you guessed this is the poster for "Tribute Royalty," you may want to pursue a career that does not involve, you know, guessing.

“Country Superstars” features a live band and impersonators portraying country hit-makers like Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Brook & Dunn, Willie Nelson and others.

“Country Superstars,” which previously had a successful run downtown, performs nightly at 6:00 p.m. at V Theater.

If you guessed this is the poster for "Country Superstars," you may want to get a CAT scan.

“Tribute Royalty” calls itself a “high-energy concert phenomenon,” and despite that is probably pretty good because it features some of music’s biggest icons, like Michael Jackson, Elvis and the sneery woman above, whomever she may be.

Oh, and there are dancers. Which, in Vegas, tends to involve a good deal of skin.

“Tribute Royalty” shows daily at 4:00 p.m. (dark on Sundays), also at V Theater. Find out more about these new shows at the official V Theater site.

The latest Jason Statham action flick will get its world premiere at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas on Jan. 24, 2013.

Jason Statham, co-star Jennifer Lopez and other celebrities will walk a red carpet outside the hotel’s “Peepshow” theater  at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to ogle and gawk, although not necessarily in that order.

Jason Statham at the premiere of "The Mechanic," also at Planet Hollywood.

“Parker,” featuring dialogue written entirely in iambic pentameter, which we probably just made up, is the story of a thief (Statham) who is double-crossed and left for dead by his crew. Parker forms an unlikely partner with Lopez’s character to exact his revenge. Oh, does it really matter?

Here’s a preview.

Some people have asked this blog how a movie with this kind of budget can afford an A-list star like Jennifer Lopez. Well, because of our extensive experience in the field of entertainment, we can say with certainty a star like Jennifer Lopez often accepts a lower up-front salary because (wait for it) she can make it up on the back end.

No, this is not a movie about a Las Vegas valet.

If you’re interested in seeing “Parker” before it hits theaters (the film officially opens Jan. 25), text PARKER to 227466 and you could win a pair of tickets to an advanced screening at Planet Hollywood on Jan. 24. Do we hook you up, or what?

If you stand in just the right place when you’re entering Planet Hollywood, and tilt your head at just the right angle, and if the sky is crystal clear just after sunset, and if you move to the perfect spot so you can get a glimpse of the Paris Las Vegas balloon, too, this is what you’ll see.

It's even jazzier in real life.

Then, go inside and gamble or grab a bite. Because if you continue to stand there with your head tilted, people are going to think you’re weird.

A new video game, “World Series of Poker: Full House Pro,” based on the world’s most recognizable poker tournament, will come to Xbox 360 and Windows 8 in spring 2013.

The new game is touted as “the most visually-stunning digital poker game on the market.”

Complete with WSOP bling.

The World Series of Poker, of course, happens each year at Rio Las Vegas. The most recent winner, 24-year-old Greg Merson, won $8.5 million of real-world money. (The video game version is “for amusement purposes only,” of course. The good news: At least you won’t have to deal with the IRS.)

Here’s a preview of the new “World Series of Poker: Full House Pro” game, in all its chip-flippin’ glory.

“World Series of Poker: Full House Pro” expands upon the popular Xbox Live Arcade hit, “Full House Poker.” Players can build their bankrolls and compete against opponents from around the world, creating their own chip tricks and playing against backdrops inspired by real-world casinos in Las Vegas and elsewhere. Yes, in one part of the video, participants are even playing in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Hey, it could happen!

Just like the real Final Table at the Rio. Just with fewer craps tables nearby. Sad face.

The game will feature a single-player mode, single-table games and full-blown tournaments. To give the game an added element of realism, “World Series of Poker on ESPN” announcers Lon McEachern and Norman Chad provide the play commentary.

Get more details at the official World Series of Poker site.