MGM Resorts International says it will convert the sidewalk space in front of New York-New York and the Monte Carlo into a $100 million park and public promenade, apparently inspired by New York City’s Madison Square Park, complete with popular vendors from the original, including a Shake Shack burger stand. The park will be a part of the MRI events arena project that was announced last month and is projected to be completed in 2014. This will make two such outdoor developments on the Strip, along with CET’s Linq, which is expected to debut this year.

» Pricey play: The Bellagio has opened the 2,600-square-foot Villa Prive, a private gambling salon accessible by invitation only. Under the rules established a couple of years ago for these private salons, players must put up a minimum of $300,000. Play is constantly monitored, and reports are provided to the state Gaming Control Board.

» Hangover spa: A new "hangover spa" is planned for the subterranean shopping mall at MGM Grand early this summer. Conceived by a team of four emergency room pros, the spa will offer remedies to cure the ill effects of excess and jet lag, with prices starting at $150.

» Sweet spot: The Sweet Spot Candy Shop has opened downtown, selling "retro" candies, taffy, gummies and chocolates. Pixy Stix are a nickel, and individually wrapped Mary Jane candies and Bit-O-Honey bite-size bars are 15 cents. Classic sodas, including Nesbitt’s, Pop Shoppe and Big Red, are also on sale for $2.50. The store is on Las Vegas Boulevard South, about a block away from the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop (of "Pawn Stars" fame).

Question: I saw an item about a third Ferris wheel being built on the Strip. Can that possibly be true?

Answer: The owners of a parcel on the east side of the Strip across from Bellagio say they want to build a

$50 million "London-themed thrill park," the focal point of which would be a big (undisclosed height) observation wheel. Three big wheels on the Strip? Don’t bet on it.

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