We’ve been going to Sin City for many years, but on our last visit we saw many more people now doing sidewalk music and costumes. They’re all over the Strip and downtown Fremont Street. What are the city laws, and is it OK to tip them? RLO’D, Memphis TN

A: There are laws they must obey, but so far the street characters are legal. As in NYC’s Times Square and on Hollywood Boulevard, in Las Vegas they earn tips with costumes and by performing on busy tourist areas. Today, most travelers have cellphones and selfie sticks, and the performers make money by posing for photos and videos. If your camera shoots them, give a tip of from $1 to $5, maybe higher if you're with them more than a few moments. If they bother you, just walk past quickly without taking any photos.