With the fire at the Monte Carlo on 1/25, what are some of the more historic fires on the Strip?

Your question on Las Vegas race tracks [QoD 1/22/08] reminded me that years ago I went to the then-MGM Grand and watched Jai Alai. I believe it was in 1980, but it could have been 1982. Was I dreaming or was Jai Alai there? I've stayed at Bally's my last three trips to Vegas (my host comps me a suite, so why not?) and I'm curious where it was located, and why was it there? I assume there was gambling involved, but I don't remember, I just know the group I went with wanted to go so, I just tagged along. Thanks.

I remember the name of Harrah's casino across from the Mirage being Showboat before Harrah's purchased it. It had the look of a showboat. I know there was also another casino named Showboat, so I must be wrong. What was the name of the casino before Harrah's took over?

How far is Las Vegas from Area 51? Are there any tours for this? Isn't there a guided tour of the atomic weapons testing range?

The Question of the Day about Old Vegas brought back memories of another attraction in the area. What is the story of Las Vegas Down racetrack? I remember that it was closed down the first time I visited Las Vegas in 1984. I also remember advertisements in greyhound racing magazines announcing the re-opening in 1991. Whatever happened?

I remember reading your history of the Stardust and now that it’s gone, do you think that Caesars takes its place as having the most sordid past of all the Las Vegas casinos? And if you do, how about telling us about it?

What are some of the craziest/wackiest records that some of the hotels or casinos in Vegas have?

What ever happened with National Airlines? I thought the casinos would have helped bail out a hometown airline that brought in big business as opposed to letting it fold.

I have heard that Atomic Liquors on East Fremont downtown has liquor license no 00001 and has been under the same ownership for 50 years, and that the movie Casino was filmed there, too. True?

I remember the restaurant Dive by Spielberg on the Strip in front of the shopping mall. Do you have any further info on the joint, like photos and what was inside the place? Thanks!