Writer: John L. Smith
Joystick nostalgia: Pac-Man Battle Casino joins fight for younger slot players
Not every column includes a confession. This one has two. First, my own. There was a time I was addicted. Not to booze or barbiturates. To... more
Brave new world: Cyber security expert preaches constant vigilance at G2E
It appears beating the competition may be the easy part. In the digital age, the biggest challenge is outfoxing Internet pirates who can... more
For brave new world of legalized sports betting, biggest news yet to come
If you think the world of legalized sports betting turned upside down in 2018, just wait until next year. That’s the clear message sent... more
In a post-Steve Wynn casino industry, an emphasis on empowering women
In an industry long dominated by men, this is as close as I’ve ever seen to the year of the woman at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas.... more
At G2E, Tribal leaders proceeding with caution on expansion of sports betting
While the prospect of the national expansion of legalized sports betting has many states’ gambling operators seeing dollar signs, Indian... more
Gaming Hall of Fame: Tough times in Nevada called for a tough guy named Phil Hannifin
As Nevada’s straight-talking Gaming Control Board Chairman during much of the turbulent 1970s, Phil Hannifin battled mob casino influence,... more
A day of reflection brings tributes, lessons, and a few troubling questions
ALEXANDRIA, VA. – On what should long be considered a day of remembrance and reflection in Las Vegas, I found myself far from the Strip,... more
One year after senseless slaughter, community of Las Vegas continues to give real meaning to Vegas Strong
Late September marks the change of the season, but for many Las Vegans it will always mean the approach of a fateful day that saw the... more
At Wynn Resorts, fallout continues from Wynn’s fall from grace
A very smart man once said, “If you want to make money in a casino, own one.” The quip is credited to legendary casino man Steve Wynn. It’s... more
Legalized sports betting would raise pulses and the action at Zia Park
HOBBS, N.M. — It was a beautiful afternoon for a horse race, but the thundering herd hadn’t yet arrived during my recent visit to the... more
