Jeff,
Check out the messages posted 01/14/06 at 3:27 pm. (on this board) about staying at the Sahara.
I also found the message board on www.lasvegasadvisor.com to be very helpful. Major words of wisdom from other Vegas travelers: Ask for the Tangiers Towers (rooms are newer), don't use the room phone (hotel charges high $$$, so bring a cell phone) and stay away from the buffet if possible.
I also noticed on Las Vegas Advisor, the price of a 1 way ticket on the Monorail has risen from $3 to $5.
Have a great trip!