From a reader, commenting on my last blog entry: 

Jean: 

“First off, let me say I have enjoyed your writings and cherish your latest autographed book. However…[Oops, I know the other shoe is going to fall]… times change, as we know very well, living in Michigan.  We have had to give up certain benefits to keep jobs for the better of the auto companies.  Las Vegas is in as bad shape as Michigan, if not worst.   Therefore wouldn’t you expect some “benefits” to be changed to allow others to keep their jobs?  Isn’t it better for club members to receive fewer kickbacks rather than let employees lose their jobs?  After all, check the stock market and the price of Las Vegas Sands, MGM or Wynn stock.   These companies are hurting and deserve support not criticism.  You and your following should support and emphasize the positive or Las Vegas attendance will continue to decline.  Remember if you paint a negative picture, why would anyone want to come to Vegas? 

“I look forward to my visit to Vegas, at the end month, and I look forward to reading your POSITIVE comments.” 

First, I must say I always appreciate input from my readers, whether they agree with me or not. However, sometimes I must defend my own views. 

I’m not an expert on the automobile industry, but I do know that if an automobile company doesn’t have any customers, it will go out of business. So if it, for example, decides to raise prices above the competition, it will start losing customers, even those long-time loyal to the brand. The same thing will happen to a casino company; cutting benefits (that’s like raising the price of entertainment) will cause a loss of customers. 

That part of Vegas is negative. But there are many positive things in Vegas right now that make it a wonderful and frugal place for gamblers to visit or live. Many casinos are running the best promotions I have seen in years. Room rates are at rock bottom. Many casinos have not cut basic benefits. 

So to the reader who wrote above and all others, I give this advice: Seek out the promotions. Consider your many options and pick the best!

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