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Tag: Las Vegas

  • VEGAS DINING NEWS: Steaks Stripped from Caesars Palace Eatery, Red Rock to Swap New Restaurant for Old One – Casino.org

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    Posted on: November 15, 2025, 06:00h. 

    Last updated on: November 15, 2025, 09:06h.

    In March 2023, Caesars Entertainment and Tao Group Hospitality debuted Stanton Social Prime at Caesars Palace as an offshoot of New York City’s Stanton Social, which closed in 2018. But steak didn’t cut it for the owners — at least not as much as the Stanton connection did.

    Executive chef and Stanton Social brand owner Chris Santos traded prime cuts for primavera at Caesars Palace. (Image: Caesars Entertainment)

    So the restaurant quickly and quietly switched both its cuisine and name last week to Stanton Social Italian. Former Stanton Social executive chef and co-owner Chris Santos still mans the kitchen, only now it’s prepping primavera instead of prime cuts.

    “The next chapter for Stanton Social focuses on classic Italian cuisine by way of New York’s long and storied history of Italian-inspired, iconic neighborhood restaurants from Little Italy to the Bronx,” Santos said in a Friday announcement.

    The new menu features a curated selection of modern Italian dishes designed for sharing, including Fritto Misto with calamari, shrimp, squash, cherry peppers, arrabbiata sauce and preserved lemon aioli.

    Astonishingly, the restaurant managed to remain open during the change.

    Dining Ins & Outs

    The Hello Kitty Café opened at Park MGM in July 2019. (Image: sanrio.com)

    A third New Hello Kitty Café is coming to the Strip. Kitty White, the icon behind the global pop culture brand, will open the eatery on the second floor of the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. (The other Hello Kittys are at Park MGM and the Fashion Show mall.)

    Zippy’s, the beloved Hawaiian food diner that opened its first Las Vegas location in October 2023, will open its fourth and fifth locations in early 2026: at 10810 W. Charleston Blvd. in Summerlin South and 5485 Camino Al Norte in North Las Vegas. (Its current restaurants are at 7095 Badura Ave. in southwest Las Vegas, 4590 S. Hualapai Way in Spring Valley and 9570 S. Eastern Ave in Henderson.)

    Leoncito ya no está en Red Rock Resort. (Image: Facebook)

    The Hush Puppy — comforting Las Vegas and enriching its cardiologists with southern-fried goodies since 1975 — will open its second Las Vegas location, at downtown’s Neonopolis, on November 18.

    Red Rock Resort quiet-closed Leoncito modern Mexican in late September. According to Vital Vegas, it will be replaced early next year with Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar. Bizarrely, this is the very restaurant that Red Rock shuttered in 2023 to create space for Leoncito.

    Red Rock also plans to close the oven on Side Piece after four years and replace it with another pizza concept, Good Pie.

    Finally, as per Vital Vegas — which we gratefully credit for half of this column’s news — the struggling  Pepper Club at downtown’s English Hotel will close on January 1, 2026. Its replacement is something that the real-estate development group renting the space called “something exciting” in a press statement even though it probably has nothing lined up or it would have mentioned it.

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    Corey Levitan

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  • Bad Bunny wins album of the year at the 2025 Latin Grammys, capping an electric night

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    It should come as a shock to no one: The 2025 Latin Grammy Awards were all about Bad Bunny. The Puerto Rican superstar won album of the year for his landmark release “Debí Tirar Más Fotos.” After thanking his family and all those who worked on the album, he ended his speech with “Puerto Rico, I love you, thank you.”

    Those are powerful words honoring a record that doubles as a love letter for his island.

    “I want to dedicate this award to all the children and young people of Latin America, especially those of Puerto Rico. Never stop dreaming, never stop being yourselves, no matter where you come from. Never forget where you come from, but never forget where you are going,” he said. “There are many ways to show patriotism and defend our land: we choose music.”

    The artist born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio was destined to dominate from the jump. He also won the first award of the night, for música urbana album. Halfway through the show, the singer found himself back on stage accepting the música urbana song trophy for “DTmF.” “I never practice my speeches,” he said in Spanish. And then he showed up for a third time: to perform “Weltita” with Chuwi.

    He wasn’t the only one with reason to celebrate: Song of the year went to Karol G, Andrés Jael Correa Ríos and Édgar Barrera for “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido.” And Alejandro Sanz took home record of the year for “¿Y Ahora Qué?”

    Live from Sin City, the 26th annual Latin Grammys were both energetic and eclectic. Take Raphael, the 2025 Person of the Year, who launched into an emotive rendition of “Qué Sabe Nadie” and “Mi Gran Noche,” inviting the crowd to sing along.

    That was after Santana kicked things off — specifically, Maluma singing Santana’s 1970 hit “Oye Como Va” with the guitar legend himself.

    It was just the beginning of a memorable medley, talents of today celebrating Santana — Christian Nodal joining in for “Corazón Espinoza” and Grupo Frontera for their 2025 collaboration with the virtuosic musician, “Me Retiro.”

    Performances hit hard and fast: Aitana brought her dreamy electro-pop, Sanz delivered a medley of “El Vino De Tu Boca” and “Las Guapas,” Rauw Alejandro channeled Puerto Rico in Vegas with “Khé?,” the bachata “Silencio,” “Falsedad” and “Carita Linda.” Then: Danny Lux, Kakalo and Ivan Cornejo brought contemporary Mexicana sounds. Pepe Aguilar followed, with his life-affirming mariachi — “El Cihualteco” into “El Fuereño.”

    Elena Rose slowed things down with “Me Lo Merezco.” Karol G and the legendary Mexican singer Marco Antonio Solís dueted the romantic ballad “Coleccionando Heridas.”

    Two of the biggest groups in regional Mexican music – Grupo Frontera and Fuerza Regida – launched into their joint hit, “Me Jalo,” before the latter took over for “Marlboro Rojo.” That’s a cut from their record-breaking 2025 album “111xpantia.” Carín León’s lovely raspy vocal tone carried throughout “Ahí Estabas Tú”; then he was joined by Kacey Musgraves for “Lost in Translation.” Not long after, León took home the trophy in competitive contemporary Mexican album category for “Palabra De To’s (Seca).”

    Morat brought the pop-rock with “Faltas Tú” and Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso brought a kind of outsider, artistic spirit. Joaquina delivered a full-bodied “Quise Quererte.” Any aspiring artists watching would be wise to take a page out of the Brazilian singer Liniker’s book; “Negona Dos Olhos Terríveis” was one of the night’s most joyful. The same, of course, should be said about norteño band Los Tigres del Norte.

    The coveted best new artist trophy was handed out to Paloma Morphy.

    Traditional tropical album went to Gloria Estefan for “Raíces.” Not long afterward, she hit the stage for “La Vecina” and “Chirriqui Chirri,” joined by Nathy Peluso for the latter.

    Then ranchero/mariachi album went to Christian Nodal for “¿Quién + Como Yo?”

    Most of the evening’s awards were handed out during a pre-televised Premiere Ceremony. That included: Bad Bunny’s “Voy A Llevarte Pa Pr” winning for reggaeton performance. Argentinian duo Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso cleaned house then, too: taking home their first Latin Grammys for short and long form music video, alternative song, as well as alternative music album for “Papota,” and pop song for “El dia del amigo.” That’s five wins, making them the most awarded act at the 2025 show.

    The three-hour award show aired live from Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena. It was hosted by the dynamic duo of Maluma and actor, producer and musician Roselyn Sánchez.

    ___

    This story has been updated to correct that Maluma helped open the Latin Grammys, not Miguel.

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  • Durango Casino Plans Next $385 Million Renovation • This Week in Gambling

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    Red Rock Resorts has announced a $385 million investment for the next phase of expansion at Durango Casino & Resort in Las Vegas. The new development will be built on the north side of the existing property and will add roughly 275,000 square feet of new space.

    Construction on this phase is set to begin in January 2026, with completion expected around mid-2027. The expansion will introduce a 36-lane bowling center, a luxury movie theater complex, additional dining venues including a food hall, and an expanded casino floor with about 400 more slot machines.

    This follows the first expansion phase, which is already underway and expected to be completed by the end of 2025. That earlier project includes 230 new slot machines, with 120 located in a high-limit gaming area featuring a private bar, along with expanded parking and new amenities to support growing visitor traffic.

    Lorenzo Fertitta, a director at Red Rock Resorts, said the company’s decision to move forward reflects the strong reception Durango Casino has seen since opening. He noted that guests have responded positively to the resort’s mix of gaming, dining, and entertainment options.

    Frank Fertitta III, chairman and CEO of Red Rock Resorts, added that the expansion aligns with the company’s evolving neighborhood-casino model. The goal, he said, is to create properties that serve as full entertainment destinations rather than just gaming venues.

    Red Rock Resorts reported strong financial results for the Las Vegas market in the most recent quarter, with net revenue reaching $468.6 million and adjusted earnings of $209.4 million. This marks the ninth consecutive quarter of record revenue for the company.

    Executives also hinted at further long-term development plans for Durango Casino & Resort. Future phases could include a hotel tower, convention space, and other amenities as part of a broader master plan. An update on the next stage of expansion is expected to be announced in early 2026.

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  • Eastside Cannery Casino Set for Demolition • This Week in Gambling

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    Boyd Gaming has confirmed it will demolish the long-closed Eastside Cannery hotel-casino and sell the property for residential development. The move ends years of speculation about the fate of the site on Boulder Highway, which has been dormant since the COVID-19 shutdowns in 2020.

    The Eastside Cannery has remained closed since Nevada’s statewide casino closures more than five years ago. Boyd Gaming, which owns the property, determined that demand in the local market did not justify reopening the resort. Company officials said the decision followed a lengthy review of financial and operational considerations.

    Built in 2008, the Eastside Cannery featured a 16-story hotel tower with 307 rooms, a 64,000-square-foot casino floor, multiple bars and restaurants, a 250-seat entertainment lounge, and 20,000 square feet of meeting space. The property was once considered an important part of the Boulder Strip’s local gaming scene.

    Boyd Gaming acquired the Eastside Cannery in 2016 as part of a $230 million deal that also included the Cannery Casino Hotel in North Las Vegas. While the North Las Vegas location continues to operate, the Eastside property never reopened after the pandemic closures.

    During its closure, the site was used by community groups and public agencies. The Three Square Food Bank operated weekly food distribution events there, while local law enforcement and fire departments used the facilities for training, including emergency response and active-shooter drills.

    Despite being closed, Boyd continued to maintain the property at significant expense, reportedly spending more than half a million dollars per month on utilities, technology systems, and security. Those ongoing costs, combined with limited market interest, contributed to the company’s decision to demolish the building.

    The move follows a broader trend in Las Vegas, where several casinos that closed during the pandemic have since been demolished rather than reopened. Other Boyd properties, including the former Joker’s Wild site in Henderson, are being repurposed for new development under the company’s Cadence Crossing project.

    Boyd Gaming has begun preparations for demolition and is in discussions to sell the Eastside Cannery site to developers for residential use. The company has not yet announced a timeline for when the demolition will begin or when the property might be sold.

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  • Vegas Projects on Life Support: Can They be Saved? • This Week in Gambling

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    New Las Vegas projects and construction is always popping up, but even the most promising and exciting plans don’t always work out. So, This Week in Gambling, we’re looking at four Sin City projects: Two open now, and two under construction, that might not make it another year.

    For every Las Vegas player who wins, there are many players who lose. And for every Las Vegas project that succeeds, there are many projects that fail.  Now, the city’s new baseball stadium and that high-speed rail project are in jeopardy. But let’s begin with one of Sin City’s biggest gambles ever: The Las Vegas Sphere!

    The lights came on July 4th of 2023, and the venue opened to the public a few months later. Their first quarterly financial report showed a loss of almost $100 million which included opening expenses and some construction costs. However, 2 years removed, the Sphere has yet to post a profit. Their latest financials show a loss of nearly $130 million just last quarter. And their parent company, Sphere Entertainment, was carrying a $ 1.5 billion debt to start the year. So, what’s going on?

    Unlike some other Las Vegas projects, the Sphere relies on high demand, high revenue residencies, and there are not many of those to go around. Also, attendance is tied to Las Vegas tourism, which has been in the tank this year, leading to lower ticket demand and prices. All is not lost though as their Wizard of Oz show has generated more revenue than expected, leading to a change in business philosophy towards creating unique and immersive content, and running more shows each day. But still the question remains: Just how much can they lose before they have to call it quits?

    And speaking of Vegas projects hemorrhaging cash, one of the newest five-star resorts in Sin City also opened in 2023 and has also failed to show a profit yet, and that is Fontainebleau. As they approach their 2-year anniversary, the property is in a critical financial time and needs to refinance their debt. How much debt is not clear, but it’s estimated to be nearly a billion dollars.

    Adding fuel to the fire is the ongoing federal investigation into possible anti-money laundering violations, along with the layoffs of more than 50 table game dealers. Plus, the departure of several key executives, including their  Chief Financial Officer and Chief  Technology Officer. Restructuring debt could significantly reduce the interest on their loans, and while there is no immediate threat of Fontainebleau closing, the risk of failure is not insignificant.

    Now, it was just a month ago that we visited the site of the new Las Vegas baseball stadium, and construction was underway. But for how long? That’s the question. Many of the best laid plans for new Las Vegas projects break ground only to run out of money before completion. Think Dream Las Vegas. And that’s a real concern with this stadium project as well. Estimates for the new ballpark were initially $1.5 billion… then 1.75 billion… and now it’s up to $2 billion or more. And that’s just for the stadium, not the new Bally’s casino that they want to build next to it.

    The company had been working with gaming and leisure properties on several sale leaseback agreements in order to raise cash, but GLPI seems reluctant to go any further with this project, raising serious doubts about where they will find the rest of the money. Additionally, the lack of another serious investor has led many to believe that the stadium will never be completed, let alone a new 30,000 room Bally’s resort.  And if you think this is a fiasco, then you haven’t been following the high-speed rail project.

    Brightline West has barely started the construction of their 220 miles worth of tracks, connecting Las Vegas with Los Angeles, but things are already off the rails.  Initial cost estimates put this project in the $8 billion range, which doubled to $16 billion not too long ago. But new estimates have the final cost at a whopping $21.5 billion… and they don’t have the money. With less than $5.5 billion available to them, Brightline has now asked the US Department of Transportation for a $6 billion loan. And that’s in addition to the $3 billion they received in federal grant money.

    But that would still be considerably short of what they actually need. Additionally, the cost of train tickets on Brightline would be equal to or more than plane tickets, and travel time by rail will take over two hours compared to just 1 hour in the air. So, that’s a look at some of the Las Vegas projects that may or may not make it through 2026. Hopefully, they survive, but when money is involved, you just never know. 

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    This Week in Gambling

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  • VEGAS DINING NEWS: 7 Vegas Spots Ranked Top 100 US Earners, Siegel’s 1941 to be Rubbed Out – Casino.org

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    Posted on: November 11, 2025, 01:20h. 

    Last updated on: November 11, 2025, 01:20h.

    Restaurant Business magazine’s annual list of the 100 top-earning Independent US eateries includes seven from Las Vegas.

    The Vegas restaurant that scored the highest sales last year serves its food at the highest elevation above the ground. (Image: Top of the World)

    For the fourth time in the past five years, the Top of the World Steakhouse has topped all other Vegas entries in this ranking. Without generating an equivalent critical dining buzz, the rotating establishment — located 844 feet up the Strat’s tower — quietly outgrossed all ultrafine-dining and celebrity-chef-driven spots during 2024.

    Also notable were Cafe Americano‘s double placement in the respected trade publication’s rankings — for its Caesars Palace (No. 24) and Paris Las Vegas (No. 41) locations.

    Here’s the full list…

    Rank Name Sales Average Check Meals Served
    16 Top of the World Steakhouse at The Strat $25,810,716 $135 190,842
    24 Cafe Americano at Caesars Palace $23,826,031 $33 708,353
    41 Cafe Americano at Paris Las Vegas $19,819,246 $29 675,579
    42 Barry’s Downtown Prime at Circa $19,500,000 $145 134,500
    59 Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan $14,987,127 $169* 184,114
    80 Cabo Wabo Cantina at the Miracle Mile Shops $12,976,111 $59* 450,000
    87 Mercato della Pescheria at The Venetian $12,320,402 $55 221,286

    Source: Restaurant Business

    Vegas came in fourth among all US cities in the number of ranked indie restaurants, behind New York City (12), Chicago (11) and Miami-Ft. Lauderdale (8). Restaurant Business, which began the ranking in 2014, defines independent restaurants as those with no more than five US locations.

    Dining Ins & Outs

    The mob-themed Siegel’s 1941 is owned and operated by El Cortez — as was its predecessor, the Flame Steakhouse. (Image: Shutterstock)

    Siegel’s 1941, the mob-themed classic American eatery at downtown’s El Cortez, is expected to close after nearly 11 years in April 2026. According to Vital Vegas, it will be replaced by a “New York-style steakhouse.” The restaurant takes its name from the year that Las Vegas’ oldest casino debuted, though Bugsy Siegel and his crew didn’t own El Cortez until 1945-46.

    The Malibu Barbie Café, a pop-up roller rink and restaurant dedicated to the doll from toymaker Mattel, will roll into AREA15 for an unspecified duration starting December 18. The traveling attraction’s restaurant features a menu created by “Master Chef” finalist and “Chopped Champion” Becky Brown.

    Picanha     (pronounced PEE-kahn-yah) plans to open its third Las Vegas location downtown at 124 Sixth St. sometime next year. The Brazillian steakery — named after a prize beef cut known for its juicy texture and rich fat cap — already has locations in southwest Las Vegas and at Allegiant Stadium.

    A new restaurant called Wonder Fine Liquids is slated to open in Las Vegas’ Arts District next year, according to WhatNow Vegas. The project is headed by of James Manos, the owner and co-founder of Las Vegas craft brewery Able Baker Brewing, which is also in the Arts District.

     

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    Corey Levitan

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  • What to know if your travel plans are impacted by the FAA’s flight cancellations

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    If you have upcoming travel plans anytime soon, you might notice fewer options on the airport’s departure board.

    Airlines are scaling back flights at dozens of major U.S. airports to ease the pressure on air traffic controllers, who have been working unpaid and under intense strain during the ongoing government shutdown.

    The Federal Aviation Administration says the decision is necessary to keep travelers safe. Many controllers have been putting in long hours and mandatory overtime while lawmakers are at a standstill over how to reopen the government.

    Major hubs like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are among those affected, and the ripple effects could mean more cancellations, longer delays and fuller flights for travelers across the country. The cutbacks will impact hundreds if not thousands of flights daily.

    Here’s what to know about the FAA’s order — and what you can do if your plans are disrupted:

    Is my airport on the list?

    There’s a good chance it is. The list spans more than two dozen states.

    It includes the country’s busiest airport — Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia — and the main airports in Boston, Denver, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco and Salt Lake City.

    Multiple airports will be impacted in some metropolitan hubs, including New York, Houston, Chicago and Washington.

    How long will this go on?

    It’s hard to say. Even if the shutdown ends soon, the FAA has said it would not lift the flight restrictions until staffing at airport towers and regional air traffic centers makes it safe to do so.

    “It’s going to take time to work through this,” said Michael Johnson, president of Ensemble Travel, an association of travel agencies in the U.S. and Canada.

    That’s why, he said, it’s important to plan ahead — whether you’ve already booked flights or you’re just starting to make holiday travel plans.

    Know before you go

    Airlines say they will let their customers know if their flight is called off.

    Still, it doesn’t hurt to check your airline’s app or a flight-tracking site for updates before you leave for the airport. It’s better to be stuck at home or in a hotel than stranded in a terminal.

    My flight was canceled. Now what?

    “Take a deep breath. Don’t panic,” Johnson said. “There are options available. They may not be ideal, and they may be inconvenient, but you have options.”

    If you’re already at the airport, it’s time to get in line to speak to a customer service representative. While you’re waiting, you can call or go online to connect to the airline’s reservations staff. It can also help to reach out on the social platform X because airlines might respond quickly there.

    Now might also be the time to consider if it makes sense to travel by train, car or bus instead.

    Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, said the shutdown is different from when a single airline is having problems and travelers can just pick another carrier.

    “The longer the shutdown drags on, it’s unlikely that there will be one airline running on time if the rest of the them are failing,” Potter said.

    Can I get a refund or compensation?

    The airlines will be required to issue full refunds, according to the FAA. However, they aren’t required to cover extra costs like meals or hotel stays — unless the delay or cancellation was within their control, according to the Department of Transportation.

    You can also check the DOT website to see what your airline promises for refunds or other costs if your flight is disrupted.

    Should I just stay home for the holidays?

    Not necessarily. You might just need a little more planning and flexibility than usual.

    A travel adviser can help take some stress off your plate, and travel insurance may give you an extra safety net.

    Johnson also warned that flights could sell out fast once the shutdown ends.

    “There will be a flurry of booking activity,” he said. “So try to get ahead of it and make sure that you’re protected.”

    Booking an early flight can also help, says Tyler Hosford, security director at risk mitigation company International SOS. If it gets canceled, you still “have the whole day” to sort things out.

    Other tips

    Travel light. Limiting baggage to a carry-on means one less airport line to deal with, and if your plans change unexpectedly, you’ll already have everything with you.

    Give yourself extra time at the airport, especially if you’re an anxious flyer or traveling with young children or anyone who needs extra help getting around.

    And be nice. Airline agents are likely helping other frustrated travelers, too, and yelling won’t make them more willing to help. Remember, the cancellations aren’t their fault.

    “An extra ounce of kindness to yourself and to others at this time of year, with all of the disruptions, will go a long way,” Johnson said.

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  • Affinity, Owner of Las Vegas, Primm Casinos, Reportedly Seeking Debt Deal

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    Posted on: November 7, 2025, 08:21h. 

    Last updated on: November 7, 2025, 08:22h.

    • Company is reportedly working with investment bank Moelis.
    • Creditors said to have hired a law firm known for Chapter 11 expertise.
    • Affinity owns several Las Vegas-area and regional casinos.

    Affinity Interactive, the owner of the Silver Sevens Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, is reportedly working with investment bank Moelis in hopes of potentially restructuring its outstanding liabilities.

    Affinity Gaming SPAC
    Affinity Gaming’s Buffalo Bill’s Casino in Primm, Nevada. The company is rumored to be working with a bank to restructure its debt. (Image: Pinterest)

    Earlier Friday, Bloomberg reported the operator of the Primm Valley Resort & Casino is working with Moelis to possibly compel bondholders to come the bargaining table for restructuring talks. Some of those creditors hired law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP — known in part for its Chapter 11 bankruptcy expertise, according to the news outlet.

    That same firm was recently hired by a consortium of Bally’s creditors that balked at that regional casino operator’s plans to sell the real estate of a Rhode Island casino to free up financing for its Chicago integrated resort.

    Creditors of Affinity, which also owns the Daily Racing Form, are believed to be restless because the gaming company’s senior secured debt trades at significant discounts

    Affinity Debt Ratios Surged

    Affinity bondholders are right to be concerned. At the end of 2023, the company’s debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) was 7.8x, but that metric swelled to 11.7x by the end of the third quarter 2024. That compelled S&P Global Ratings to drop its grade on the gaming company to “CCC+” from “B-.”

    Corporate bonds rated in “C” territory are considered highly speculative and vulnerable to default. S&P notes Affinity’s debt ratio trajectory isn’t tenable.

    We view Affinity’s capital structure as unsustainable because we expect the company to sustain S&P Global Ratings-adjusted leverage above 8x through 2026, when it would likely begin to explore refinancing its senior notes. The downgrade reflects weaker than expected credit metrics and our forecast for leverage sustained above 8x,” according to the research firm.

    In March 2023, Affinity sold the Rail City Casino in Sparks, Nevada to affiliates of Truckee Gaming, LLC to raise cash, but that transaction also modestly pinched EBITDA, said S&P Global.

    Affinity Could Conduct Casino Fire Sale

    Earlier this year, reports surfaced that Affinity is working with CBRE and Goldman Sachs to identify potential buyers for Silver Sevens and its three Midwest regional casinos — the Lakeside Hotel Casino in Iowa, the Mark Twain Casino, and St. Jo Frontier Casino in Missouri. Iowa and Missouri are competitive casino markets dominated by larger operators.

    Deals for those properties haven’t been announced as of yet and it’s likely Silver Sevens is the most valuable, though it is an off-Strip property.

    If Affinity sells those venues to raise cash, it’s casino portfolio would consist of Buffalo Bill’s in Primm, Nevada and Primm Valley Resort & Casino. The company also owns the Primm Center & Pilot Truck Stop.

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    Todd Shriber

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  • UPDATE: Vegas Officials Green-Light Parking Garage Right Next to Airport Fuel Tanks – Casino.org

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    Posted on: November 5, 2025, 10:49h. 

    Last updated on: November 5, 2025, 10:49h.

    UPDATE: Las Vegas officials voted on Wednesday to approve the construction of a six-story parking garage next to eight large fuel tanks at Harry Reid International Airport. The Clark County Commission said the garage can be built if developers meet safety and security requirements imposed by the Clark County Department of Aviation.

    EARLIER: The Clark County Commission is scheduled to vote on Wednesday, November 5, on whether to approve a controversial proposal for a new parking garage at Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport. The proposal raises safety concerns due to its proximity to eight large jet fuel tanks, the nearest being less than 100 feet away.

    This aerial photo shows the distance between a proposed six-story parking garage, currently occupied by a Sky Chefs building, and the Las Vegas Airport’s east-side “fuel farm.” (Image Google Earth)

    The 2,200-car structure would be situated on 3.8 acres just north of Terminal 1, a space currently occupied by airline food supplier Sky Chefs, whose building is slated for demolition. Terminal 1 is home to Las Vegas’ busiest airline, Southwest.

    The garage is being proposed by land American Nevada Co., a legacy developer known for master-planned communities and commercial developments throughout Las Vegas. It was founded in 1972 by Hank Greenspun, the late publisher of the Las Vegas Sun newspaper, and his wife, Barbara.

    According to a county staff report obtained by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the Clark County Department of Aviation, which runs the airport and would also need to approve the project, has raised “numerous safety and security concerns.”

    A rendering of the parking garage proposed by American Nevada Co. (Image: TRC Parkitects)

    The main one is that the new structure would provide an “elevated, direct line of sight” to the tanks.

    According to the staff report, the developer will be required to build a solid wall obscuring views to the tanks and airfield from any part of the parking structure — especially its roof. In addition, the garage must be surrounded by a “vehicle crash mitigation rail” capable of stopping a 15K-pound vehicle doing 50 mph.

    A fuel tank on the west side of the airport was targeted by Stephen Paddock during the Route 91 Harvest Music festival massacre that claimed 58 lives on the night of Oct. 1, 2017. Two bullets, fired from the gunman’s perch on the 32nd floor of Mandalay Bay, hit the tank but caused little visible damage, according to reports at the time.

    Hank Greenspun’s descendants maintain close ties to local politics. Clark County Commission chair Jim Gibson was the president and CEO of the online travel agency Vegas.com from 2010-2013, when it was owned by the Greenspun Corporation.

    A public comment session is scheduled to be held at the commission meeting on Wednesday.

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    Corey Levitan

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  • Gear Up for the National Finals Rodeo 2025 • This Week in Gambling

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    If you’re headed to the National Finals Rodeo in Sin City this December, then listen up: After all the riding, roping, and wrangling there’s still plenty to see, do, and enjoy. So, if you’re attending, we got you covered with how to do Las Vegas country style! Nearly 200,000 people will be attending the NFR in Las Vegas December 4th through the 13th for a 10-day competition in everything from steer wrestling to barrel racing! And This Week in Gambling, we’re sharing the country concerts, comedy shows, and special events that will bring it all together!

    What better way to relax and enjoy the National Finals Rodeo than an evenings of  amazing music? So the NFR is kicking things off with the legendary Tim McGraw, who will perform select dates at Caesars throughout the rodeo. Plus, country icon Brad Paisley, who will play two shows at the win December 4th and 5th. You can also catch Aaron Watson and Tyler Booth, plus Wayne Wilson, who will take the stage at T-Mobile Arena. Old Dominion will be playing Planet Hollywood on the 5th and 6th, and other performances are scheduled from Clay Walker and Mark Chznut.

    The Zack Brown Band will fill the Sphere on December 5th and 6th, then again on the 12th and 13th, while Riley Green will appear on stage at Resorts World. Gary Allen headlines the win on the 6th and 7th. But there are concerts every night of the rodeo with over 100 performers. So you should check out the NFR website for a complete listing. And it should be mentioned that the beloved and age defying Dolly Parton was also scheduled to be in town over this time, but an illness forced her to cancel.

    However, if it’s one thing Dolly loves, it’s a good laugh. And the National Finals Rodeo has that covered, too. Beginning with Rodney Carrington, who will be at the MGM Grand for three nights, the 4th through the 6th. And the hilarious Ron White will take the stage at the Cosmopolitan, also on December 6th. Brian Regan will hit Venetian. Then Jeff Dunham will bring his unique approach to comedy when he visits Planet Hollywood on the 7th. And what rodeo show would feel complete without an appearance from Jeff Foxworthy on the 10th, also at Planet Hollywood. Plus, Dane Cook will stop by at Venetian on the 13th.

    Finally, this week, while your days may be filled with the rodeo and your nights with music and comedy, there’s still more to do. If you can find the time, like special events, parties, and even shopping at the official gift shop of the rodeo, Cowboy Christmas, filled with themed merchandise and vendors, or the ultimate western gift show at South Point. Both of these events are open to the public without an admission fee.

    Fremont Street is getting into the spirit December 3rd with the Downtown Hoedown featuring Corey Kent, Josh Ross, and others, plus Rodeo World at Resorts World with music, athlete meet and greet sessions, and a 10-day freestyle bull fighting tournament. There will also be parties and watch parties all over town during the rodeo with free concerts, dancing, giveaways, and rooftop views. And all of these come with free admission.  And so, my friends, that’s a roundup of what’s going on around Las Vegas during the National Finals Rodeo this year. But do check out their official website to see even more as there was just too much to cover. 

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  • Alice Cooper and Criss Angel Teaming Up for Vegas Nightmare Show

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    Shock-rock pioneer Alice Cooper has joined forces with illusionist Criss Angel for a once-in-a-lifetime Las Vegas event titled “Welcome to Our Nightmare.” Caesars describes it as a theatrical mash-up. It’s a live rock and death-defying magic show set to light up the Strip in March 2026. Alice Cooper and Criss Angel are teaming up for two nights only… at least for now.

    Details of the Alice Cooper and Criss Angel Show

    The two-night limited engagement takes place at the Criss Angel Theater inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7, 2026. The announcement on Alice Cooper’s website, describes the show as the “Shock Rock Magic experience of a lifetime.” The show will combine Cooper’s signature hits, songs like “Poison,” “I’m 18,” “School’s Out,” and “You & Me” with Angel’s jaw-dropping illusions and theatrical staging.

    Fans can expect a 90-minute spectacle featuring a full band, and mind-bending magic tricks. It’s a clash of rock theatrics and Las Vegas showmanship. Alice Cooper’s built his career on guillotines, snakes and horror-movie theatrics. On the other hand you have Criss Angel, who has dominated the illusion-world with TV specials and his longstanding Vegas residency.

    Tickets for Alice Cooper and Criss Angel’s “Welcome to Our Nightmare” shows are available to the general public on Thursday, November 6 2025 at 1 p.m. EST. A special presale begins Tuesday, November 4 2025 at 1 p.m. EST. VIP “Nightmare Collectible” packages and backstage meet-and-greets will be available. You can get tickets through Ticketmaster.com/crissangel, or by calling (855) 234-7469.

    A Perfectly Macabre Match-Up

    Both Alice Cooper and Criss Angel have reputations for boundary-pushing performances. “Welcome to Our Nightmare” promises to be one of 2026’s most thrilling Las Vegas residencies. Plus both performers love wearing straightjackets. Granted, it’s only a two-night residency, but still, it’s shaping up to be unforgettable.

    Donielle Flynn has two kids, two cats, two dogs, and a love of all things rock. She’s been in radio decades and held down top-rated day parts at Detroit, Philadelphia, and Washington DC radio stations throughout her tenure. She enjoys writing about rock news, the Detroit community, and she has a series called “The Story Behind” where she researches the history of classic rock songs.

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  • Trump Wants to Restart Nuclear Tests Near Las Vegas, Prompting Opposition

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    Nevada officials pledged to resist any attempts to resume nuclear testing in the state, near Las Vegas, arguing that such tests are unnecessary and could trigger a new arms race. Their remarks followed President Donald Trump’s statement, made just before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, expressing his desire for an immediate return to nuclear testing.

    Trump’s Vow to Restrain Nuclear Testing Near Las Vegas Sparks Political Backlash

    “Because of other countries’ testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis,” President Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social website. “That process will begin immediately.” He also stated that the USA possesses more nuclear weapons than any other nation, with Russia ranking second and China a “distant third.” Trump also noted that the US has not carried out a nuclear test since 1992.

    Perhaps it should not be surprising that opposition to the idea arose quickly. “Absolutely not,” Nevada Democratic US Rep. Dina Titus wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter), claiming she would be introducing legislation to put a stop to it. 

    At an Armed Services Committee hearing, Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., warned that restarting nuclear testing would be “devastating and catastrophic.” She emphasized that she would do everything within her power, both as a senator and as a US citizen, to prevent it from happening and to protect Nevada families, declaring that it would not occur “on her watch.”

    Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nev., whose district includes the Nevada National Security Site, stated that Nevada has already made significant contributions and sacrifices regarding nuclear weapons. He emphasized that restarting the nuclear testing program disregards the lasting impacts the state has already endured, noting that the issue affects every community in Nevada and is not a partisan matter. Horsford also argued that full-scale nuclear testing is unnecessary, as subcritical tests and computer modeling already provide reliable data.

    Las Vegas’ History with Nuclear Tests

    The Nevada National Security Site (known as the Nevada Test Site until 2010) is a US Department of Energy reservation located in southeastern Nye County, Nevada, approximately 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Covering roughly 1,350 square miles (3,500 km²) of desert and mountainous terrain, it contains around 1,100 buildings across 28 areas. These are linked by 400 miles (640 km) of paved roads, 300 miles (480 km) of unpaved roads, ten heliports, and two airstrips.

    A January 1951 detonation was the first of many dozens of above-ground nuclear tests. These tests, observed by tourists from Las Vegas bars and hotels during “atomic viewing parties,” concluded with the signing of the Partial Test Ban Treaty in 1963. However, underground tests of nuclear bombs continued until 1992.

    The numerous explosions left large areas of the Nevada site contaminated with radiation, with fallout exposure linked to higher rates of cancer and other serious illnesses among workers and nearby residents. Las Vegas also felt noticeable seismic impacts. Westerly winds often carried fallout from the atmospheric nuclear tests, contributing to increased cancer rates in Utah and other regions, according to a 1984 medical report.

    Protests against the conducting of nuclear tests in the area aren’t anything new. According to government records, the site has been the location of 536 publicized and organized anti-nuclear protests, involving 37,488 participants, of whom 15,740 were arrested.

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  • Local Leaders Blast Resumption of Nuclear Weapons Testing Near Las Vegas – Casino.org

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    Posted on: October 30, 2025, 04:38h. 

    Last updated on: October 30, 2025, 08:43h.

    When President Trump posted to Truth Social on Wednesday that he had ordered the Pentagon to resume nuclear testing “immediately,” Las Vegas government leaders clapped back.

    A US Air Force photographer places himself within 10 miles of an explosion at the Nevada Test Site in 1957. (Image: US Department of Energy)

    They knew that the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS), 65 miles northwest of the Strip, is the only US location capable of conducting full-scale nuclear explosive tests. And, if expediency is the priority that the president claims it is, then building a new location will take too much time.

    “Absolutely not,” Nevada Democratic US Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nevada, tweeted Wednesday. “I’ll be introducing legislation to put a stop to this.”

    Trump says he ordered the resumption because other countries are testing nuclear weapons.

    “We halted it many years ago, but with others doing testing, I think it is appropriate we do so also,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One.

    This aligns with Project 2025, the document that has served as a blueprint for multiple Trump administration policies. It called for the US to “restore the nuclear infrastructure” and “readiness to test nuclear weapons at the Nevada National Security Site.”

    “This directly contradicts the commitments I secured from Trump nominees — and the opinion of Administration officials who certify our nuclear stockpile — who’ve told me explosive nuclear testing would not happen & is unnecessary,” added US Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nevada, in her own tweet on Wednesday.

    “I’ll fight to stop this,” she vowed.

    Guests at the Last Frontier watch a mushroom cloud from a nuclear test, at the top of the photo, in 1953. (Image: Las Vegas News Bureau)

    Underground Zero

    A January 1951 detonation was the first of 100 in the air over the 1,355 square-mile Nevada Proving Ground, which was carved out from the Nellis Air Force Gunnery and Bombing Range. (In 1955, its name was changed to the Nevada Test Site, followed by a 2010 name change to the NNSS.)

    The aboveground tests — whose mushroom clouds were watched by tourists from Las Vegas bars and hotels during “atomic viewing parties” — ended with the signing of the Partial Test Ban Treaty in 1963.

    Most people believe nuclear testing came to an end then. However, it continued until September 1992, when the Mirage was already three years old.

    That 828 more nuclear tests were conducted at the Nevada Test Site wasn’t common knowledge because none of the them produced a mushroom cloud visible in Las Vegas — only the occasional ground rumble.

    All those explosions left vast swaths of the Nevada site irradiated, with fallout exposure tied to elevated rates of cancer and other severe illnesses among workers and nearby residents.

    They’re even implicated in the deaths of movie star John Wayne and the other cast and crew of the 1954 film “The Conqueror,” which filmed 137 miles downwind of the Nevada Proving Ground. (Of the 200 people who worked on it, 91 developed cancer.)

    Tireless lobbying by self-proclaimed “downwinders” got Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch (R) to spearhead the 1990 passage of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. The $100 million compensation package offered $50,000 each to the families of all residents of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona able to link cancers and other diseases to their fallout exposure.

    A congressional moratorium on all nuclear testing — driven by health, environmental and geopolitical concerns — was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. The final test, codenamed Divider, was conducted on September 23, 1992.

    Since then, the National Nuclear Security Administration has conducted only subcritical (non-exploding) nuclear weapons experiments on the site.

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    Corey Levitan

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  • 20,000-square-foot Las Vegas home turned care facility sale

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    There are mega mansions all over the country — California, Florida, Las Vegas and elsewhere. One legendary boxing referee has decided to take one of the 20,000-square-foot ginormous structures and turn it into something helpful.

    On the market for $12 million, the estate features 12 suites, each with spa-like bathrooms and expansive living areas designed to offer both privacy and comfort.
    On the market for $12 million, the estate features 12 suites, each with spa-like bathrooms and expansive living areas designed to offer both privacy and comfort. Rooted Elements Media

    Sitting on four acres, the Las Vegas home was flipped upside down and turned into a luxury assisted living facility thanks to Joe Cortez, an International Boxing Hall of Fame referee, who lived in the home. Cortez transformed the home following a “life-altering accident” that affected his daughter’s, a release on the house said.

    The layout of the residence includes grand common areas, such as a professional-grade kitchen, a large dining room, a 21-seat theater, an elevator, a fitness center with a sauna and steam room and a wine room and bar.
    The layout of the residence includes grand common areas, such as a professional-grade kitchen, a large dining room, a 21-seat theater, an elevator, a fitness center with a sauna and steam room and a wine room and bar. Rooted Elements Media

    “This property is unlike any other in Las Vegas,” listing agent Frank Napoli said. “It combines the scale and amenities of a luxury estate with a layout specifically designed for high-end assisted living. Every detail reflects comfort, privacy and care.”

    “This property is unlike any other in Las Vegas,” listing agent Frank Napoli said about the 20,000-square-foot home at 5930 N. El Capitan Way in Las Vegas. “It combines the scale and amenities of a luxury estate with a layout specifically designed for high-end assisted living. Every detail reflects comfort, privacy and care.”
    “This property is unlike any other in Las Vegas,” listing agent Frank Napoli said about the 20,000-square-foot home at 5930 N. El Capitan Way in Las Vegas. “It combines the scale and amenities of a luxury estate with a layout specifically designed for high-end assisted living. Every detail reflects comfort, privacy and care.” Rooted Elements Media

    It’s now listed for $11.995 million. The estate includes:

    • 12 suites with their own bathrooms
    • Kitchen
    • Dining room
    • 21-seat theater
    • Elevator
    • Gym
    • Steam room
    • Wine room
    • Bar
    • Swimming pool
    • Spa
    • Waterfalls
    • Covered patios
    • Pool house

    The four acres includes a swimming pool.
    The four acres includes a swimming pool. Rooted Elements Media

    “It’s rare to find a property that balances elegance with functionality at this level,” said Napoli. “This estate was designed to provide both a beautiful environment and the infrastructure needed for quality care.”

    The listing is held by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nevada Properties.

    This story was originally published October 30, 2025 at 5:01 PM.

    TJ Macias

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren

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    TJ Macias

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  • MGM Stung by Weak Las Vegas Results, $256M New York Charge

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    Posted on: October 29, 2025, 09:01h. 

    Last updated on: October 29, 2025, 09:01h.

    • Another operator confirms Q3 was a disaster in Las Vegas
    • MGM took a $256 million charge and $93 million in write-downs related to decision to withdraw from New York casino race
    • CEO admits to Las Vegas pricing gaffes

    Shares of MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) faltered in after-hours trading Wednesday after the company reported a third-quarter loss due in large part to weakness at its Las Vegas Strip casino hotels and one-off charges related to its decision to pull out of the New York City casino competition.

    Bellagio on the Las Vegas Strip. Operator MGM delivered disappointing Q3 results. (Image: Instagram/@bellagio)

    The Bellagio operator generated revenue of $2 billion on the Strip, down from $2.1 billion a year earlier, on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and restructuring or rent costs (EBITDAR) $601 million. Year-earlier EBITDAR was $731 million. Weakness on the Strip where MGM is the largest operator was widely expected after rival Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ: CZR) sank today following a downbeat third-quarter report in which Strip softness was the primary culprit.

    Further hampering MGM’s September quarter results was a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $256 million and $93 million worth of non-cash write-downs stemming from the company’s decision to no longer pursue a license to convert Empire City Casino in Yonkers, NY to a traditional casino.

    MGM ‘Lost Control of the Narrative’

    Reasons abound for slumping visitation to Las Vegas this year with President Trump’s trade tariffs stymying international visitation and high unemployment in California — the largest domestic feeder market to the casino center — among the reasons 2025 will be a forgettable year for Strip operators.

    However, MGM hasn’t helped itself. Already saddled with a reputation for nickel-and-diming customers, that situation really came to light in the second quarter – another period of dismal Las Vegas results for the company – amid reports of $26 bottles of water at the Aria. For the bad press that generated, MGM didn’t learn its lesson over the summer months.

    When we think about pricing and things that got everyone’s attention, whether it’s the infamous bottle of water, where a Starbucks coffee Excalibur cost $12, shame on us,” said CEO Bill Hornbuckle on a conference call this evening. “We should have been more sensitive to the overall experience at a place like Excalibur to those customers. You can’t have a $29 room and a $12 coffee.”

    He acknowledged MGM “control of the (pricing) narrative” during the summer months, adding the company has evaluated its pricing strategies and corrected some of the prior gaffes.

    MGM Not Leaving New York

    When MGM said it was exiting the New York casino competition, it was one of the most stunning announcements in years in the industry, particularly because Empire City was widely viewed as one of the leaders to land one of three licenses.

    Obviously, MGM’s withdrawal is good news for Bally’s, Hard Rock, Resorts World New York, but Hornbuckle said the company isn’t abandoning Yonkers.

    “We have been and continue to be a proud partner of the city of Yonkers and the State of New York,” he said on the conference call. “We remain committed to operating the property in its current format and believe it will continue to enjoy success serving customers in the Yonkers and surrounding communities.”

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  • Vegas Prices Start to Fall: Discounts and Deals! • This Week in Gambling

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    Las Vegas Prices have been out of control, causing many to stay away. Now, after months of falling tourism, costs are starting to move, and resorts are offering specials to bring back business! After Covid, everyone wanted to travel again… and they had all that relief check money burning a hole in their pocket! But now that ride is over, and after nine consecutive months of plummeting tourism, Vegas has finally gotten the message.

    Prices are beginning to see moderate declines, and specials are running on hotel rooms, food, shopping, even the mono rail. So, let’s get right into things with how you can save on some of Sin City’s most popular attractions, like 20% off ziplines at the Linq, or unlimited rides on Slotzilla at Fremont. How about 20% off tickets for the Eiffel Tower viewing deck and the High Roller Observation Wheel?  MGM Resorts is offering two attractions for one price, including the Bellagio Art Gallery. Or you can relax at Atomic Golf for half off. And getting around town may be cheaper with a 20% discount on unlimited ride Monorail tickets.

     

    Shop the Miracle Mile stores and the Premium Outlets with free VIP  Coupons or complimentary Savings  Passports which are available for Caesar’s Forum and the Grand Canal  Shops. Afterwards, treat yourself to 20% off a facial at Sahara or a $99 massage at the Palms. Now, before we get to the Vegas prices on food, drinks, and hotel rooms I wanted to let you know that most of these offers can be found on the company’s websites, but if for some reason you can’t locate them, we’ve left direct links in this video’s description. Some of these deals expire before the end of the year. Others are good into 2026.

    And with that said, while you’re in Sin City, you gotta eat! If you’re on Fremont, try the AC Kitchen, offering a 20% discount… or Tony Romans with a $16 prime rib special. On the Strip, there are all you can eat buffets at Guy Fier’s Flavortown and Jack Binion’s Steakhouse, both located at Horseshoe. For drinking on a budget, there are specials all over town, from $5 drafts at New York New York, to all day happy hours at Caesars. And from $3 beer and shots to $2 margaritas at Station Casinos. Plus tacos and Cuervo shots, just five bucks a piece at Virgin   Las Vegas.

    Finally, this week, we’ve saved the best news about Las Vegas prices for last, as most all Las Vegas resorts are running specials on their rooms right now, including Caesar’s properties with offers at many of their most popular resorts for either a two or three night stay from now through the end of the year. Additionally, guests who book these deals will receive a complimentary food and beverage credit for up to $250. MGM is also running specials across their properties from the more budget friendly options like Luxor and Excalibur, to properties such as Park MGM, New York, New York, and the Nomad. And which resort you pick will get you different food and beverage credits.

    Those range from just $50 and $75 on the low end, to $100 at locations like the   MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, and Vdara. And stay at the Bellagio, Aria, or the Cosmo to get a $150 credit for food and drinks. But you best hurry. Book by November 4th for travel through July of next year. But you don’t have to stay with Caesars or MGM. Venetian and Palazzo are offering 25% off their recently renovated rooms, while Font Blue offers 20% off with a $50 pool credit. Get off the strip at the Palms with 25% off their rooms, plus a $50 food and drink credit. The Rio is giving guests 35% off lodging and a $100 credit for eating and drinking.

    The Strat is running their all-in fall stays special with rooms for just $59: No resort fees, taxes included. While Ellis Island has 20% off your stay with free coffee and croissants, you could also book on Fremont Street with 25% off rooms at the Golden Nugget, plus $40 in food and beverage. And the Plaza will match the 25% off your stay, plus $25 in food and a $25 free bet. And there are other ways to save on your next Sin City visit as well, like purchasing snacks and drinks at a grocery or liquor store instead of stopping at the casino gift shop. And if you travel between December and February or June and August, you’re bound to find better Vegas prices than the more popular months.

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  • Creative Ways to Save on Las Vegas Travel • This Week in Gambling

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    Travelers hoping to save on Las Vegas travel can find major price differences depending on when they visit. Hotel rates, airfares, and even restaurant prices in the city shift widely based on season, day of the week, and major events.

    Spring and fall remain the busiest times in Sin City, with mild temperatures and a steady lineup of conventions and festivals that fill hotels. Demand peaks from March through May and again from September through November, pushing prices to their highest levels. Visitors during these months will enjoy pleasant weather but should expect limited room availability and premium costs across the Strip.

    Those looking for lower prices will find better opportunities in early winter and midsummer. From December through February, after the holiday rush, visitor numbers drop and hotel rates are cut to attract guests. June through August can also bring sizable savings, especially when temperatures rise above 100 degrees. While the desert heat keeps some tourists away, travelers who don’t mind the weather can take advantage of cheaper stays and fewer crowds.

    Another reliable way to save on Las Vegas travel is to book weekday trips. Hotel rates from Monday through Thursday are often significantly lower than weekend prices. Weekends bring in leisure visitors and large events, which can cause rates to surge. Avoiding citywide conventions, sporting events, and major concerts can also help keep costs down.

    Weather plays a role in comfort and savings alike. The most affordable months may not offer ideal temperatures, but they do allow travelers to enjoy many of the same attractions for less. Pools, restaurants, and shows remain open year-round, meaning the biggest difference is often just the crowd size and hotel bill.

    Ultimately, the best strategy to save on Las Vegas travel is flexibility. Choosing off-peak months, traveling midweek, and monitoring the city’s convention calendar can reduce expenses without sacrificing the experience. With careful timing, visitors can enjoy the city’s casinos, dining, and entertainment for a fraction of the usual cost.

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  • Galileo Observatory Tracks UFOs Above Las Vegas Sphere

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    Above the dazzling lights of the Sphere in Las Vegas, new technology is doing more than immersing thousands of fans in “The Wizard of Oz.” It’s also keeping an eye on the skies for something far stranger than flying monkeys.

    The Galileo Observatory, designed by Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb, sits atop the Sphere to track aerial objects that defy normal explanation. Loeb, the Frank B. Baird Jr. Professor of Science at Harvard’s Center for Astrophysics, says the system is built to study Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, what most people still call UFOs.

    “In Search of UAPs Over Las Vegas” 

    The observatory relies on ultra–high resolution optical and infrared cameras, feeding data into AI systems that remove human bias and speed up analysis. 

    By triangulating information with two other observatories placed about 10 kilometers away in undisclosed Las Vegas locations, the system can measure an object’s velocity, acceleration, and distance from Earth.

    Loeb said the project received the green light in September 2024 when Sphere Entertainment chief executive officer James Dolan visited his home in Boston to approve the installation above the Exosphere’s LED display. 

    By a happy coincidence, the observatory went live at the same time “The Wizard of Oz” started its screenings in late August, letting the city’s visitors enjoy a story of other worlds while scientists literally scanned for them above.

    Millions of Objects to be Analyzed Yearly

    “We hope to analyze exquisite data on a few million objects per year in search of UAPs over Las Vegas,” Loeb wrote on Medium.

    Loeb, known for being one of the most outspoken scientists who suggests that some UAPs could have extraterrestrial origins, has drawn plenty of skepticism and even ridicule from many of his colleagues. Nonetheless, he is still unapologetic about his work.

    “Here’s hoping that the Galileo Project Observatory on Sphere will spot an extraterrestrial guest of higher intelligence than displayed in terrestrial academia,” Loeb said.

    The project is ambitious, both in scale and in vision. It’s not just about catching a glimpse of something unusual, but an effort to collect rigorous, verifiable data on phenomena that have fascinated humans for decades. As Las Vegas visitors watch Dorothy step into Oz, above them, scientists are looking up at the night sky, searching for a different kind of wonder, one that might just come from another world.

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    Melanie Porter

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  • Some airports refuse to play Noem video on shutdown impact, saying it’s political

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    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Airports big and small around the country are refusing to play a video with a message from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in which she blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown and its impacts on Transportation Security Administration operations.

    Airports in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, Charlotte, Phoenix, Seattle and more say the video’s political content goes against their policies or regulations prohibiting political messaging in their facilities.

    Various government agencies, in emails to workers and on websites, have adopted language that blames Democrats for the shutdown. Some experts argue it could be in violation of the 1939 Hatch Act, which restricts certain political activities by federal employees.

    The shutdown has disrupted routine operations at some airports, leading to flight delays. Democrats say any deal to reopen the government has to address their health care demands, and Republicans say they won’t negotiate until they agree to fund the government. Some medical insurance premiums would double if Congress fails to renew the subsidy payments that expire Dec. 31.

    In the video, Noem says the TSA’s “top priority” is to help make travel pleasant and efficient while keeping passengers safe.

    “However, Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government, and because of this, many of our operations are impacted, and most of our TSA employees are working without pay,” she continues.

    The TSA falls under the Department of Homeland Security. Roughly 61,000 of the agency’s 64,130 employees are required to continue working during the shutdown.

    A spokesperson for DHS responded to a request for comment restating some of the message from Noem’s video.

    “It’s unfortunate our workforce has been put in this position due to political gamesmanship. Our hope is that Democrats will soon recognize the importance of opening the government,” spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said.

    DHS said Friday that the video is being rolled out to airports across the country.

    In Columbus, Ohio, the video was not being aired at John Glenn International Airport as of Tuesday. Spokesperson Breann Almos said it is under legal review but did not provide a timeline.

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport, said it would not air the videos, citing rules against “politically partisan messages.”

    Near the border with Canada, travelers won’t see the video at Buffalo Niagara International Airport or Niagara Falls International Airport. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority said its “long-standing” policy and regulations prohibit “partisan messaging” in its facilities.

    The Chicago Department of Aviation said advertising and public service announcements must follow guidelines that “prohibit content that endorses or opposes any named political party.” In Florida, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport said it has a policy that doesn’t allow political messaging to be displayed in its facility. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas said it had to “remain mindful of the Hatch Act’s restrictions.”

    “Per airport regulations, the terminals and surrounding areas are not designated public forums, and the airport’s intent is to avoid the use of the facility for political or religious advocacy,” the airport’s statement said.

    Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said the county north of New York City won’t play the video at its local airport. In a statement, he called the video “inappropriate, unacceptable, and inconsistent with the values we expect from our nation’s top public officials,” and said its tone is “unnecessarily alarmist” as it relates to operations at Westchester County Airport.

    “At a time when we should be focused on ensuring stability, collaboration and preparedness, this type of messaging only distracts from the real issues, and undermines public trust,” he said.

    Even in red states, airports weren’t showing the video for various reasons. Salt Lake City International Airport wasn’t playing it because state law prohibits using city-owned property for political purposes, said airport spokesperson Nancy Volmer.

    The airport in Billings, Montana, “politely declined” even though it has screens that could show the video with audio, assistant aviation director Paul Khera said Tuesday.

    “We don’t want to get in the middle of partisan politics,” Khera said. “We like to stay middle of the road, we didn’t want to play that video.” ___

    Yamat reported from Las Vegas. Associated Press writers Mead Gruver in Fort Collins, Colorado; Julie Carr Smyth in Columbus, Ohio; and Claire Rush in Portland contributed to this report.

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  • Boyd to Demolish Eastside Cannery in Las Vegas – Casino.org

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    Posted on: October 24, 2025, 05:12h. 

    Last updated on: October 24, 2025, 05:12h.

    The Eastside Cannery, a Boulder Strip casino that has remained closed since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, will be demolished.

    When the $250 million Eastside Cannery opened in August 2008, it was the first new hotel-casino on Boulder Highway since Boulder Station opened in 1994. (Image: Shutterstock)

    “It has been more than five years since we closed Eastside Cannery, and there is not sufficient market demand to reopen the facility,” owner Boyd Gaming said in a press statement. “Given this, we are finalizing plans to demolish the building.”

    Boyd said it’s exploring the idea of selling the property to a developer for residential housing.

    Cannery Opener

    The Eastside Cannery opened on August 28, 2008 on Las Vegas’ Boulder Strip, a less desirable tourism corridor patronized almost entirely by locals. It was a replacement for the aging Nevada Palace.

    The casino hotel included 64,876 square feet of gaming space occupied by over 2,000 slots, 26 table games, a poker room, keno, and a race and sports book. It also had an 18-story hotel tower with 307 rooms, 20,000 square feet of meeting and ballroom space, a private club on the 16th floor, three restaurants, and a lounge.

    In December 2016, Boyd paid Cannery Casino Resorts, co-founded by Bill Wortman and Bill Paulos, $230 million for the operating rights to the Eastside Cannery and the original Cannery Casino and Hotel in North Las Vegas.

    However, Cannery Casino Resorts retained ownership of the land on which the Eastside Cannery sat.

    In February, Boyd purchased those 30 acres for $45 million from Cannery Casino Resorts, to whom Boyd had been already been paying millions in rent every year.

    When then-Gov. Steve Sisolak allowed Nevada’s casinos to reopen following the COVID-19 shutdown in June 2020, Boyd reopened the Cannery but not the Eastside Cannery, instead directing customers to visit its nearby other property, Sam’s Town.

    Boyd is basically following the lead of its most direct rival, Red Rock Resorts, with whom it is locked in a turf war over Las Vegas’ neighborhood gamblers.

    In July 2022, Red Rock announced the permanent closures of Fiesta Henderson, Fiesta Rancho and Texas Station. Those venues were ultimately demolished and Red Rock sold the real estate to nongaming entities. (The Fiesta Henderson will become a park and community center, while the adjacent Fiesta Rancho and Texas Station are being redeveloped into a mixed-use community called Hylo Park.)

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    Corey Levitan

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