Yesterday my fellow blogger David McKee wrote about cuts the casinos were making to try to adjust to a worsening economy. Not surprising I had been compiling notes about this myself.

For example, I noticed Green Valley Ranch buffet has started charging extra for crab legs - 1/2 lb $3, 1 lb $5. I heard via Internet forums of other cuts there, like downsizing the wine glasses for slot players and switching from Red Bull to SoBe. We aren’t big seafood eaters and mostly drink water so these are changes that don’t bother us, but could be fairly important to others.

However, this next cut has caused a roar of protests on the Internet forums. Harrah’s has closed the Seven Star Lounge at Caesars and has cut the food selection at all their Diamond Lounges in Vegas. Many have commented that this is the last straw since Harrah’s was taken private and so many downgrades have taken place. They will vote with their feet and take their play elsewhere.

Some casino cuts have affected their employees more than their customers, with numerous layoffs. However, sometimes this cutting of employees will impact the quality of customer service. And Wynn cutting down their dealers income by making them share their tip pool with pit bosses is bound to affect the morale of the employees which in turn can also lead to an unpleasant atmosphere for players.

But the general opinion of whether the faltering economy is all bad for Vegas is mixed. If you have lost your job or your house, of course it is bad news. But for players like us, retirees who don’t need a job and their home is paid for, the few cuts we feel in the casinos are overwhelmingly forgotten because of the good things they are doing to get more warm bodies in their casino.

There is talk about decreased comps and some of that is happening. However, hotel prices are coming down all over the place, even at the top resorts. We recently received an e-mail room offer from the Palms for $49, including free admission to the Ghost Bar or Rain, 20% off spa services, and $25 in free slot play. True it was for a few specific dates, but it is an example of how players who search diligently can find all sorts of bargains, not just on rooms but on food and shows.

Promotions is another area where a scrambling player can find real gold these days. Brad and I are finding more good plays than our tired old bodies can do.

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