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Rollercoasters are a natural resource we should cherish

Taking a break from its usual languorous meditations on Las Vegas -- or weirdly leering dissections of our economy -- the New York Times finds a place in its heart to praise our rollercoasters:

At Circus Circus, a few blocks north, the Canyon Blaster looks tame, partly because it’s painted the same shade of purple as Barney the Dinosaur. It costs a family-friendly $8, but do not be deceived. Completely indoors, it has a punishing double loop and a double corkscrew that roller-coaster lovers adore. The ride starts with a 90-degree turn, climbs nine stories, and then drops nine at 45 degrees. It reaches a top speed of 55 miles per hour and, mercifully, lasts only two minutes. Somehow, you do not notice the mini-golf course nearby.

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As a longtime journalist in Southern Nevada, native Las Vegan Andrew Kiraly has served as a reporter covering topics as diverse as health, sports, politics, the gaming industry and conservation. He joined Desert Companion in 2010, where he has helped steward the magazine to become a vibrant monthly publication that has won numerous honors for its journalism, photography and design, including several Maggie Awards.