by Hal Erickson
synopsis
In the first episode of a two-part story (originally telecast as a single hour-long special), Vera (Beth Howland) wins a free trip to Las Vegas. Naturally, Alice (Linda Lavin), Mel (Vic Tayback) and Belle (Diane Ladd) insist upon tagging along. And just as naturally, Mel tries his luck at the gaming tables--promptly losing his diner in a crap game. The presence of guest star Robert Goulet is a portent of the musical madness still to come.
