Letter: Wynn destroying one of Las Vegas’ finest properties

Tuesday, July 18, 2000 | 9:41 a.m.

The Desert Inn, more so than the Dunes, Sands or the Hacienda, is a community treasure and should be saved. Since its recent renovation, it is a beautiful place to visit or vacation.

I am one of those who does not agree that bigger is better. It's a pleasure to say, "meet me in the casino" and actually be able to find your friends in the casino.

Two years ago my husband and I celebrated our 10th anniversary at the DI. We didn't have to travel far to experience the luxury and quality of staying in a first-class resort.

We were able to play golf, enjoy the spa and dine in the best restaurants in Las Vegas. I would rather dine at Ho Wan or the Monte Carlo Room than any of Steve Wynn's fancy restaurants at the Bellagio.

For those who haven't enjoyed these fine restaurants, I encourage you to do so before their expected demise. Ho Wan is probably the finest Chinese food in all of Las Vegas and you will never have a better meal or dining experience than at the Monte Carlo Room. The sommelier is friendly and knowledgeable, the caviar exquisite, the souffles are simply out of this world, and Mario is the very best head waiter in town. If you want to experience Las Vegas as it once was, when elegance and service mattered, then you will certainly enjoy an evening at the Monte Carlo Room.

If I had the political clout and could stop Steve Wynn from tearing down the hotel and ripping out the golf course, I would try. I respect those who are trying and only wish that the pleas from the DI's dedicated employees and Las Vegas residents were not falling on the County Commission's deaf ears.

SYDNEY KNOTT