Governor Greg Abbott has formally rejected a renewed legislative push to legalize commercial Texas casinos, stating that he remains unconvinced of the benefits such an expansion would bring to the state. In a recent statement addressing the issue, Abbott made it clear that he is not currently prepared to support a constitutional amendment that would allow for the development of destination resorts and casino gambling. The governor cited several concerns as the primary reasons for his opposition, including potential impacts on state culture and risks associated with gambling addiction. He specifically mentioned recent red flags involving sports wagering and the…

Construction of the new Hard Rock Las Vegas has reached a major milestone as the signature guitar-shaped hotel tower surpassed the halfway point of its vertical development. Project officials confirmed this week that crews have completed 28 of the planned 42 stories on the structure rising along the Las Vegas Strip. The progress keeps the massive redevelopment project on schedule for a targeted opening in the fourth quarter of 2027. Hard Rock Las Vegas President Joe Lupo stated that the vertical phase is moving at a steady pace on the former site of the Mirage. The new tower will eventually…

State Senator Joseph Addabbo has officially introduced legislation to authorize New York online casinos for the 2026 legislative session, marking his fourth consecutive year championing the expansion of digital gaming. Senate Bill S02614 seeks to establish a regulated framework for real-money iGaming and online lottery sales, aiming to capture revenue that currently flows to neighboring states or unregulated offshore markets. The bill arrives at a critical juncture for the gaming industry in New York. State regulators recently concluded a lengthy process to award three downstate casino licenses to projects in the New York City region. Addabbo, who chairs the Senate…

Station Casinos has officially broken ground on a 385 million dollar expansion at Durango Las Vegas, marking the third major development phase for the southwest valley property since its debut in late 2023. This latest project will add 275,000 square feet to the resort, specifically targeting the northern side of the existing campus. The expansion comes only weeks after the company finished a 120 million dollar south-end project that introduced a new Fortune Coin Bonus Room, a high-limit slot room and a 2,000-space parking garage. Company executives stated that this new phase is designed to meet the high demand from…

Piff the Magic Dragon is celebrating a milestone of 10 years as a headliner at the Flamingo Las Vegas. Known for his dragon costume, dry humor, and inventive magic tricks, Piff has become a fixture on the Las Vegas Strip, drawing audiences with a combination of comedy, illusion, and audience engagement. Piff began his residency at the Flamingo in 2015 and has since performed thousands of shows. His act blends clever magic, sarcasm, and physical comedy, often featuring his canine sidekick, Mr. Piffles. The small dog became a recognizable part of the show, delighting audiences and adding a unique charm…

Carrot Top is celebrating a major milestone in his Las Vegas career, marking 20 years as the headlining performer at the Luxor Hotel & Casino. The comedian, known for his prop-driven comedy and high-energy performances, has become one of the longest-running entertainers on the Las Vegas Strip. Carrot Top first performed in Las Vegas in the mid-1990s, appearing at several venues before settling at Luxor in 2005. Since then, he has delivered thousands of shows, consistently drawing large audiences from around the world. His act combines physical comedy, props, quick wit, and references to pop culture, news, and everyday life,…

Flamingo Las Vegas is preparing for a major transformation as it approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026. The resort, one of the oldest and most iconic properties on the Las Vegas Strip, is undertaking a significant renovation that includes updates to its lobby, casino, and entertainment areas. The goal is to modernize the property while maintaining the character that has made Flamingo a landmark for decades. The lobby will receive a complete redesign featuring a new bar, a VIP check-in area, and refreshed public spaces. The renovations aim to create a welcoming environment for guests with elements that reflect the…

Circus Circus Bingo Hall is set to reopen on the Las Vegas Strip in 2026, marking the return of traditional bingo to the corridor after more than a decade without a dedicated venue. The reopening is part of a broader strategy by the resort to lean into nostalgia-driven offerings while appealing to both longtime bingo players and tourists seeking a classic casino experience. The Bingo Hall is scheduled to begin operations in mid-February 2026. The venue will emphasize a traditional bingo format, relying on paper cards, ink daubers, and live number calls rather than electronic tablets. Management has positioned the…