Writer: John L. Smith
In Nevada, the political heavyweights are slugging it out in 2020 election
Campaign 2020 has me feeling a little out of breath. It’s not just the coronavirus pandemic blues, or the nation crossing the awful... more
It’s long past time for more fresh air inside casinos
The Mirage made history when it opened in 1989 and set a new standard for style and design on the Las Vegas Strip. Journalists offered... more
Remembering an attempt to organize a Las Vegas dealers union
Mike O’Callaghan had been the Governor of Nevada just a few months in May 1971 when he faced a crisis in his administration. Namely, what... more
MGM layoffs a reminder of the scale of the industry – and the pandemic
The numbers are overwhelming. MGM Resorts International’s announcement this week that it was laying off 18,000 workers companywide due to... more
The Vegas thing: Hitman Cullotta was right about old mob in the gaming business
Retired Chicago Outfit gangster Frank Cullotta wasn’t a “deeze and dozer,” but I’m not sure anyone would have called him a clever... more
After spat, Adelson makes it known he’ll shower Trump campaign with gold
The tabloid-tinged squabble between President Donald Trump and his biggest donor, Las Vegas Sands Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson, didn’t... more
Trump call with mega-donor Adelson blows up, now heats up
When it comes to politics, Republican mega-donor Sheldon Adelson usually makes news by writing big checks. His millions fueled the rise of... more
It’s the right thing to do, but casino closures batter the heart of Indian Country
GALLUP, N.M. – On a normal weekend, the parking lots of the Firerock Navajo Casino just off Interstate 40 is crammed to capacity with the... more
Culinary lawsuit spells bad news for gaming companies trying to put on a happy face
You could see it coming for weeks. Like an approaching storm, representatives of UNITE-HERE and its behemoth Las Vegas Local 226 have... more
New normal acknowledged: In Nevada, Gov. Sisolak directs masks for locals, visitors
Las Vegas is the party capital of just about everywhere, but how do you celebrate in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic? Very carefully,... more
