I'm certain that many readers will be heartbroken to learn that the Klondike Hotel & Casino (at the south end of the strip) is closing. The casino will close on June 28, with the hotel following on June 30.

The Klondike's main (only?) claim to fame is that it is almost directly across from the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign. Indeed, about 30 years ago the sign had fallen into disrepair, and the owner of the Klondike cleaned it up and restored power to it, possibly saving it from destruction.

The "hotel" (motel, actually) is the sort of place that no one stays in more than once. It is 45 years old and looks every bit of it.

The casino has 4 blackjack tables with $2 min, quite likely the last $2 BJ to be found anywhere on the strip.

The coffee shop features one of the last remaining 99 cent breakfast specials (two pancakes and an egg).

The Klondike is of course being replaced with a billion-dollar luxury hotel-condo project, 1200 suites and an 80,000 sq. ft. casino. There are no plans to offer a 99 cent breakfast special. Or $2 blackjack.

But do not despair. The Sunset Klondike was not part of the deal, and will carry on the proud Klondike tradition.