I think I've got a question that even the LVA staff might have trouble finding an answer to: I was wondering, of the 35-40 million visitors to Las Vegas a year, what percent are first-timers? I'm guessing only 10-15%.

Last July we ran a QoD about the history of the Stardust sign -- many people's favorite example of Las Vegas neon. As part of our "Stardust Week," we're running that answer again, in an updated form, in case you missed it the first time.

The thrilling conclusion to the epic Stardust answer.

I understand the Stardust is due for implosion in March. Can you give some history on the joint? A friend of mine thought it had some connection to the Chicago organized-crime scene. True?

After visiting Las Vegas several times a year for the last 30 years, we've decided that it is time to see the Grand Canyon. We want to fly, either in a small plane or helicopter. Any recommendations? Which has the best safety record? How many companies fly the Grand Canyon? How can a person check on the safety record of each company?

How much did the Nevada casinos win in 2006? And how much of that did Las Vegas win?

My sister is celebrating her 30th birthday in Vegas in a few weeks and I am in charge of making a welcome gift for the guests. I would like to put together a Vegas survival kit as the gift. So far, I have come up with bottled water, aspirin, lip balm, and a snack to add to the kit. Is there anything that you or the other readers suggest I add to the survival kit?

Do QoDers, LVAers, or friends of LVA have any special memories of the Stardust?

I would love to do a cigar bar crawl -- maybe with cigar factory tours -- during the day, then enjoy various piano bars at night. (Going off-Strip and/or away from downtown would be okay.) You commented on this in March 2006; could you please print an update?

Our family has a trip planned to Vegas over the Easter weekend and we were told we won't be allowed downtown most of our stay unless we have rooms there because of a car race on city streets. What gives?