What's the difference between baccarat and chemin de fer, as it's played in Europe?

We’re going to a video poker tournament in late January. Any advice on how to play it is deeply appreciated.

We caught the tail-end of a show airing on the Travel Channel about someone "breaking the bank" at the Monte Carlo. We’d like to know the rest of the story. Thanks!

I'm a big fan of 7-card stud (not stud eight or any of the variants), but it's not dealt regularly in the poker rooms near where I live. Is 7-card stud dealt regularly in at least some of the Vegas poker rooms? If so, which ones? Thanks.

I don't know if this subject has crossed your mind or not, but today's QoD (the one on 6-5 blackjack, 11/20) made me think of this. Have you ever stopped to tell your readers about problem gambling? I would think that now might be a good time to spread some sober thoughts for a change. Maybe not. I haven't a clue as to what your thoughts would be.

How can slot change people put "out of order" signs on slots for two hours for patrons? This practice is very unfair, but I've seen it done at the Fremont casino.

Why are the colors red and black associated with gambling? You've got your red diamonds/hearts and black spades/clubs on cards; red and black roulette wheels/squares; and aren't pai gow tiles black with red dots? Perhaps these colors are the palette of risk-taking?

On my last visit to Vegas, I was in a slightly altered state one evening when I walked down the Strip and into Imperial Palace to watch the "dealertainers." Surrounded by dealers in costume, impersonating pop stars, I got to wondering about Las Vegas in 50 years. Anyone there care to speculate about what the future of the city and gambling games -- blackjack, perhaps -- might be?

I'll be in Las Vegas in about four days, so I know it's unlikely you'll have an answer for this by then, if you answer it, BUT, here it is: The Luxor has been touting its table reservation program where you and friends can reserve a blackjack table all for yourselves if you meet certain minimums ($300 cash in and $15 per bet, I believe). Since it's always more fun, I think, to play with friends at the same table, do you know of any other casinos who offer this table reservation option, or might be considering it?

Is there any player advantage for doubling down on a blackjack in an even-money or 6-5 game rather than taking the sure payoff?