MGM Departure Stokes Concern on Resorts World New York Casino Resort Outlook

January 20, 2026/in Blog/by admin

MGM Departure: Stokes Concern on Resorts World New York Casino Resort Outlook

This departure raises vital questions about the financial viability of Resorts World New York, a casino resort situated in Queens, especially considering the mixed performance of other properties owned by Genting.

Key Concerns Raised

Operator Genting’s Struggles with Other Ventures: Genting has been grappling with modest returns at its North American venues, including Resorts World Catskills and Resorts World Las Vegas.
High Tax Rates: Genting’s plans for New York include some of the highest tax rates in the industry, raising doubts about profitability.
Regulatory Environment: The changes to licensing terms, cutting potential permit durations from 30 years to just 15 years, have added to MGM’s decision to withdraw.

Casino resort — Image by MichelleMaria_Pitzel from Pixabay

A rendering of Resorts World New York City, one of the contenders for the downstate casino licenses in New York.

Analysts are questioning if Genting’s approach to these proposed permits makes sense. As noted by Nomura analyst Tushar Mohata, the recent performance of resorts in Genting’s portfolio could indicate an unwise investment in expanding Resorts World NYC.

Financial Proposals from Genting

Genting announced a potential investment of $5.5 billion to turn its Queens facility into a Las Vegas-style resort, which does not include an additional $2 billion allocated for community benefits. This proposed expenditure significantly eclipses prior investment in other properties, raising eyebrows among industry veterans.

Genting’s High-Stake Bid

MGM’s exit signals a deeper issue within the competition. Genting’s supplemental bid includes:

A $600 million license fee, exceeding the minimum of $500 million.
Tax rates at 56% for slot games and 30% for table games, which are notably high when compared to industry averages.

This aggressive bid indicates Genting’s willingness to risk high expenditures in a climate of intense competition, especially with MGM stepping back.

Geographic Considerations for Genting

The proximity of the proposed $8 billion Metropolitan Park project, led by Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, poses additional competition for Genting. Located just 10 miles from Resorts World New York, this new venue could siphon off traffic and patronage.

Analysts suggest that while the project promises to bring substantial economic benefits, it also presents a significant threat to the viability of existing venues like Resorts World.
In conclusion, Genting’s ability to manage this expansion while balancing the competition and financial pressures will be critical in the coming years.

Summary

The decision of MGM to withdraw from the New York City casino bids has sent shockwaves through the industry, particularly concerning the future of Resorts World New York. With Genting proposing a massive investment and navigating challenging financial landscapes, the coming times will be crucial for reshaping how casinos operate in the New York market.

NFL Trade Deadline: Can the Bills Fix Their Wide Receiver Woes to Boost Your Sports Betting Odds? | 10BET

January 20, 2026/in Blog/by admin

NFL Trade Deadline: Boost Your Sports Betting Strategy as the Bills Wide Receiver Struggles Shift the Odds

As the Bills struggle through two consecutive losses, the teams momentum has plummeted, causing a significant shift in sports betting markets. For fans looking to capitalize on these changing dynamics, the latest movement in their Super Bowl odds reflects the growing uncertainty surrounding their postseason potential.

Bills find themselves struggling, sitting at 4-2 and second in the AFC East.
Coach Sean McDermott indicates the team needs a fresh start.
Rumours abound on possible trades for boosting the receiver lineup.

As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4, the Buffalo Bills are taking a much-needed bye week after losing two games in a row. The team is experiencing notable issues, raising questions about their performance and depth moving into a crucial part of the season.

Team struggle — Image by Olgaozik from Pixabay

Falcons Dominate Performance

In their recent matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, the Bills fell short with a disappointing 24-14 score. Despite hopes of a comeback, the game was controlled by the Falcons, leaving the Bills at 4-2 in the rankings, trailing behind the New England Patriots. This competition is proving to be daunting for fans who remember the team’s glory days.

Players like QB Josh Allen have been under increased scrutiny post-game, as he struggled against the Falcons’ aggressive defense, suffering four sacks and exposing cracks in the Bills’ defense prospects.

Shifting MVP Odds

All eyes are also on MVP odds as Patrick Mahomes and Baker Mayfield have seen shorter odds following their teams’ performances. Meanwhile, Allen’s current odds have dropped to +325 from +140, reflecting the team’s waning momentum.

This change has led to growing concerns about whether Allen is adequately supported in key positions, particularly wide receiver. As roster weaknesses become apparent, the pressure is mounting on the Bills to bolster their lineup through potential trades.

Addressing Team Needs

RB James Cook has not been effectively utilized, receiving a mere 17 touches for 87 yards in their game against Atlanta. The Bills’ receiving corps also faces injuries, with WR Joshua Palmer and WR Curtis Samuel struggling with health issues. Their absence is felt significantly, as no standout player at the receiving position is emerging, which is proving detrimental to the team’s offensive drive.

Head Coach McDermott is calling for a comprehensive evaluation of personnel and performance:

“We can certainly perform at a higher level, and we need to. This bye week is crucial for assessing our strategy and player capabilities.”

After the frustrating defeat, McDermott acknowledged the importance of focusing on foundational improvements. The team must ensure that all structures, from practice routines to game-day strategies, are functioning effectively.

Trade Speculations Heat Up

The upcoming deadline brings forth speculation on potential trades, with names like Jakobi Meyers of the Raiders being floated as a possible addition. His capacity for deep pass receptions, along with others such as D.J. Moore from the Bears, could provide the necessary spark the Bills are in dire need of.

Furthermore, if the team hopes to elevate their playoff contention prospects, looking towards the likes of A.J. Brown or Chris Olave could yield significant benefits.

The Future Ahead

Despite the setbacks, at BetMGM, the Bills are still seen as contenders, currently marked at +300 for AFC victory, trailing behind the Chiefs. The season is far from over and can pivot in any direction based on the decisions made in the coming days.

As fans gear up for the next game against the Panthers, the hope remains that the Bills can regroup, harness their potential, and navigate through their current challenges effectively.

In summary, the Bills find themselves in a critical junction as they seek to reclaim their momentum amid injuries and fluctuating performance. Against the backdrop of ongoing trade discussions, their ability to adapt and strengthen their roster could ultimately define their playoff run this season.

Sports Betting Fraud Scandal: Arrest Made After £8M Scheme Collapse Linked to Son of Tony Blair Spin Chief | 10BET

January 19, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Sports Betting Fraud Scandal: Arrest Made After £8M Fund Collapse Linked to Son of Tony Blair Spin Chief

Rory Campbell’s £8M betting fund collapses amid fraud claims
Elite investors lose thousands as probe into fund deepens
Police arrest suspect after syndicate’s alleged false representation

In a significant development, UK authorities have arrested a man linked to the collapse of an £8 million (around US$10.7 million) sports betting syndicate, which is believed to have involved betting fraud, run by Rory Campbell, the son of former Downing Street spin doctor Alastair Campbell. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the high-stakes nature of the betting and the profiles of the investors involved.

Betting syndicate — Image by whekevi from Pixabay

London’s Metropolitan Police reported that the 37-year-old suspect was taken into custody on suspicion of committing fraud via false representation. He is currently on bail pending further inquiries.

Rory Campbell had previously assured his investors that he was using predictive mathematical models to secure an edge in the betting markets. In December 2024, however, he claimed the enterprise had collapsed due to sportsbook operators in Asia not paying out winnings.

Savvy Backers

It’s important to note that Campbell’s investors were not naive novices looking to strike it rich quickly. Instead, they were well-informed professionals from the gambling and racing industries, including a former executive from The Racing Post and a senior official with the British Horseracing Authority. Additionally, Campbell’s father personally invested £300,000 (approximately US$400,000) in the fund, which speaks volumes about the level of trust and expectation surrounding the venture.

Some initial investors even received commissions to recruit others, indicating a potentially lucrative, albeit risky, investment opportunity. In total, around 50 investors purportedly lost funds ranging from £10,000 (US$13,400) to £500,000 (US$670,000), focusing primarily on Asian handicap betting strategies and over/under goal markets.

Downfall

The troubles began in 2023 when investors faced difficulties withdrawing their funds, despite earlier claims of an average annual return of 8%. Campbell reassured them that there were no issues with the fund and that they would receive their complete investment by the end of July 2024. However, by mid-July, he adjusted that expectation to indicate returns of only 50%-65%.

As negotiations broke down in January 2025, and with frustrations mounting among the investors, many turned to the police for assistance.

Tragically, one investor, well-known in the British horseracing scene, passed away from cancer before he could recoup his funds. He had expressed despair over the situation prior to his death.

Another investor attempted to recover £266,000 (US$356,000) through civil litigation against Campbell, but it is believed that this individual settled out of court for a mere fraction of the original amount.

Key Takeaways

The alleged fraudulent activities surrounding the betting syndicate raise critical concerns about investor protections in the gambling sector.
The lack of transparency in such investment opportunities can lead to significant financial loss for well-intentioned investors.
This case underscores the importance of due diligence and the fundamental need for regulatory oversight in the gambling industry.
The involvement of high-profile individuals like Alastair Campbell complicates the narrative, suggesting deeper issues of trust and accountability within elite networks.

The fallout from this incident not only puts financial implications on the investors but also invites scrutiny into the betting industry at large. This leads to questions about regulations, investor awareness, and the integrity of financial dealings in gambling.

As we continue to monitor this evolving story, it’s clear that the repercussions of the failed betting fund will ripple throughout the gambling community, forcing a reconsideration of current practices and compliance.

Summary: The arrest linked to the collapse of an £8 million betting fund runs deep into issues of transparency, responsibility, and investor trust in the gambling sector. As investigations continue, the outcome promises to reshape not only the lives of the affected investors but also instigate broader discussions around regulations in the betting industry.

Las Vegas Casino Myths Busted: The Luxor Sphinx Jinx | 10BET

January 18, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Las Vegas Casino Myths Busted: Is the Luxor Sphinx Really Jinxed?

A long-standing myth suggests that the strange energy surrounding the Luxor hotel can be attributed to the giant Sphinx located outside, a theme echoed in legends that often haunt the halls of a typical Las Vegas casino. According to this myth, unlike the original Sphinx of Giza, which faces east, the Luxor’s replica faces west—an affront to the very gods it is meant to honor and a chilling tale whispered among those seeking luck on the gaming floor.

The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt stands deliberately facing east, towards the rising sun, symbolising ancient sun worship and rebirth. In contrast, the Luxor’s replica, a prominent feature on the Las Vegas Strip, looks west, turning away from the sunrise.

Sphinx monument — Image by jarekgrafik from Pixabay

This myth has gained traction through social media, ghost tours, and various blogs that attribute a series of tragic occurrences at the Luxor to the Sphinx’s improper alignment. Notable incidents include:

The tragic death of Steven Yandell, a 42-year-old construction worker from Arizona, who was fatally injured by a boom on December 23, 1992, during the hotel’s construction.
The September 25, 1996, suicide of a woman who jumped from a balcony on the 26th floor, landing near the buffet area.
A motion-activated pipe bomb explosion in the Luxor’s parking garage on May 7, 2007, that claimed the life of 27-year-old Willebaldo Antonio, who worked in the food court.

A recent post from the “Buzzed Vegas” Facebook page suggested that the Sphinx’s orientation is displeasing to the Egyptian gods, reinforcing the myth among its followers.

Myth Interpretation

The design of the Luxor resort was part of a broader strategy by Circus Circus Enterprises to expand its themed resorts following the success of their Excalibur and prior to the opening of Mandalay Bay. Construction on the resort began in early 1992, with plans for an Egyptian-themed hotel featuring a pyramid-shaped structure and a Nile River ride surrounding the casino.

River view — Image by ptognoni from Pixabay

Interestingly, the Sphinx design wasn’t initially in the original plans. Its location was strategically chosen to maximise visibility for the heavy traffic along the Las Vegas Strip. It was thought that the Sphinx must face the Strip to attract visitors, as a backward-facing structure would be less likely to draw attention.

The Luxor is situated on the west side of the Strip, which runs north to south, with its entrance facing east. Thus, the claims of the Sphinx facing west are fundamentally incorrect. It actually faces east, aligning with the orientation of its historical counterpart in Giza, contrary to the myths circulating.

While many tales swirl about the Luxor’s dark past, assessing the accuracy of such claims need not delve into speculative paranormal debates. The facts surrounding the Sphinx’s orientation demonstrate a clear direction towards the east.

So, before attempting to be an authority on such topics, it’s essential to confirm the core facts—particularly when it comes to discerning east from west.

For more thrilling tales of Vegas myths debunked, check out the weekly series, “Vegas Myths Busted,” featured on Grand Rush Online. Share your own suggestions for legends that need debunking!

Las Vegas Casinos Concert Guide: New Shows Announced for No Doubt and Eagles Record Residency

January 18, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Las Vegas Casinos: New No Doubt and Eagles Residencies Added to Live Music Lineups

No Doubt has added six new shows to its 2026 “Live at Sphere” residency, increasing their total performances to an impressive 12 instances of live music. This expansion adds even more high-octane entertainment to the desert landscape, providing a perfect melodic soundtrack for travelers who are already flocking to Las Vegas casinos for a weekend of gaming and nightlife. Locals and visitors alike are eager for even more dates to be added in the future.

Tickets for the newly added shows on May 21, 23, 24, 27, 29, and 30, 2026, will be available through Ticketmaster starting at 10 a.m. PT this coming Friday.

Although a press release cites “fan demand” as the reason for the new shows, it is notable that the tickets for the initial six performances (May 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, and 16) have not yet been released! The opening tickets also become available on October 17.

Registration for the initial artist presale was highly sought after, indicating considerable interest, as fans will again have first access to the latest date offerings.

The (Official) Longest Run

The Eagles have also made headlines by extending their residency to become the longest-running act at Sphere, with a staggering total of 52 shows confirmed and counting. Sphere Entertainment CEO James Dolan previously noted that these legendary musicians can perform at the venue for as long as they desire.

The Eagles have added four more new shows for February 20, 21, 27, and 28, 2026. General tickets start at $175, and presales will commence at 10 a.m. PT on October 22, with regular tickets available on October 24.

A Modern Twist with Culture Club

Culture Club, featuring iconic members Boy George, Mikey Craig, and Roy Hay, is set to rock the Venetian Theatre with six shows on March 18, 20, 21, 25, 27, and 28, 2026. This shift marks a fresh chapter for the 80s sensations, having last graced a Vegas stage at the Encore Theater in 2023.

Tickets for their Venetian performances go on sale at 10 a.m. local time this coming Friday via Ticketmaster.com.

Rock Legends Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts will continue their residency at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay early in 2026, with shows scheduled for February 13, 14, 18, 20, and 21. Make sure to keep an eye on Ticketmaster.com for ticket availability starting on October 17.

Punk Festival in Vegas

Lyft is going all out for the “When We Were Young” music festival scheduled for October 18-19 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. The rideshare giant is collaborating with Nevada’s Zero Fatalities program and the Governors Highway Safety Association, pledging $2,500 in discounts for the first 500 riders using the code RIDESAFEOCT to receive $10 off their fares.

Summary

This exciting scoop highlights Las Vegas’s vibrant music scene, showcasing an array of performances from iconic bands like No Doubt and the Eagles at the Sphere. Beyond these fan-favourite reunions, newcomers like Culture Club and enduring acts like Joan Jett are all poised to give unforgettable shows. With handy discounts offered by Lyft during impending music festivals, attendees are in for a memorable time!

How US and UK Sanctions on Cambodian Scams Impact the Global Online Casinos Industry | 10BET

January 17, 2026/in Blog/by admin

How Cyber Scams and Human Trafficking in Cambodia Are Driving Global Interest in Regulated Online Casinos

While the global rise of online casinos offers unparalleled convenience and entertainment for players, this digital expansion has also highlighted critical issues surrounding human trafficking, as criminal networks increasingly exploit the anonymity of the gambling industry.

Major sanctions on a Cambodian crime syndicate.
$15 billion in bitcoin and London properties seized by authorities.
Prince Group and Jin Bei linked to trafficking and online scams.

The US and UK have taken significant action against a Cambodian casino group, the Prince Group, and its affiliates accused of engaging in cyber scams and human trafficking in Southeast Asia. Authorities have also reported the seizure of $15 billion in bitcoin and have frozen properties in London owned by the group’s leaders.

Among those accused is Chen Zhi, 38, the chairman of the Prince Group, which oversees various casinos, property developments, and a commercial bank in Cambodia. Zhi is believed to have ties to the corrupt Cambodian government and serves as an advisor to Prime Minister Hun Manet.

The US Treasury Department has classified the Prince Group as a “transnational criminal organization” (TCO), underscoring the severity of the allegations against them.

Jin Bei Group

In addition to the Prince Group, sanctions also target the Jin Bei Group, a leisure and entertainment firm associated with the Prince Group. They operate a prominent seven-story hotel and casino in Sihanoukville, a popular tourist destination in Cambodia.

In 2022, a US federal probe into a money-laundering network linked to Jin Bei revealed that 259 Americans had lost approximately $18 million to fraudulent activities connected with the group.

Jin Bei claims on its website to be the “largest operator in Cambodia,” promoting high-end entertainment across Asia. They also state that their “employees are the foundation of the group” and essential to their operations.

However, the US Treasury has disputed this narrative, describing the operations as being rife with severe human rights abuses, including “industrial-scale trafficking, torture, and extortion” across multiple scam compounds in Cambodia.

Rise of the Scam Compounds

After the Cambodian government prohibited online casinos in 2019 due to pressure from Beijing, criminal elements seized the opportunity to convert these vacant structures into scam centers. Workers were often lured with promises of legitimate jobs and subsequently held against their will, coerced into working on fraudulent cyber operations.

These scams include so-called “pig butchering” schemes, where victims are defrauded out of substantial sums through fake investment plans. Amnesty International has highlighted the Cambodian government’s alleged complicity in these scams.

“Workers are subjected to barbaric methods of control at the hands of their captors, including physical abuse, isolation, and arbitrary fines,” noted the Treasury Department. Further reports have indicated horrific conditions at sites linked to the Prince Group TCO.

The recent $15 billion seizure marks the largest confiscation of bitcoin by the FBI to date. It also includes high-value assets such as a $16 million mansion on Avenue Road in London, along with a $126 million office building in the city’s financial sector and several luxury apartments.

Summary

The sanctions imposed by the US and UK on the Prince Group and Jin Bei are a major step in combating organised crime linked to human trafficking and cyber fraud in Cambodia. The substantial financial penalties, including billions in seized assets, highlight international efforts to uphold human rights and protect victims of these heinous activities. With growing scrutiny of gambling operations worldwide, it remains crucial for authorities to continue cracking down on such transnational crime syndicates.

New Online Casino Rewards Plan Launched for Internet Gaming in Four States – 10BET

January 17, 2026/in Blog/by admin

FanDuel Expands Access to Online Casino Rewards Across Four States

FanDuel has officially unveiled the FanDuel Casino Rewards Club, a premier initiative specifically engineered to elevate the player experience through a sophisticated system of online casino rewards. Designed to add extra value to every session, this new loyalty program is currently available to enthusiasts playing in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

The loyalty scheme allows users to earn points, unlock levels, and access exclusive rewards, transforming how they engage with the brand. With iGaming now a fully embraced trend, FanDuel aims to cater to the modern digital user.

Online casino — Image by besteonlinecasinos from Pixabay

Only seven states in the USA have legalised online gambling, including Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. The FanDuel Casino Rewards Club aims to stand apart from similar offerings by focusing on transparency and simplicity.

What Makes the FanDuel Rewards Program Stand Out?

Clear Rewards Structure: FanDuel has made it easy for players to see what they can earn with each tier of membership.
Transparent Earning: Players earn points for every dollar spent, making it straightforward to accumulate rewards.
Valuable Bonuses: The program features enticing bonuses such as a 5%, 10%, 15%, and up to 25% Weekly Bonus Back, exclusive Reward Boxes, and even birthday bonuses.

In the competitive landscape of the casino industry, having a robust loyalty programme is vital. While many loyalty schemes focus solely on gambling activities, the FanDuel Casino Rewards Club also expands to include various customer engagements.

The Growing Importance of Rewards Programs in Online Gaming

Loyalty programs have become essential in attracting and retaining customers across various industries, including airlines, hotels, and casinos. With the rise of the digital gambling market, companies like FanDuel are continually innovating to enhance their reward offerings. Competitors such as DraftKings and Rush Street Interactive have implemented their own refined loyalty programs, fostering an environment of strong competition in the interactive gaming space.

While traditional gaming establishments may have established rewards schemes, online operators are rapidly finding their footing in this realm, ensuring that they can deliver similar value to their users. This creates a vibrant marketplace for players to explore, making the gaming experience not only more enjoyable but also rewarding.

As FanDuel continues to expand its services and reward offerings, the company remains committed to providing exceptional value to its players, ensuring they keep players engaged and entertained.

Summary: FanDuel’s Casino Rewards Club aims not just to compete with existing loyalty programs but to redefine them by providing clear and tangible rewards. With a focus on transparency and customer satisfaction, this initiative caters to the digital-first generation of gamblers across four key states in the US, marking a significant step forward in the realm of online gaming loyalty programs.

New York DFS License Update: How PrizePicks Expands the Landscape for Sports Betting | 10BET

January 16, 2026/in Blog/by admin

PrizePicks Expands into Sports Betting Landscape Following New York DFS License Approval

Operator’s peer-to-peer model aids reentry into New York
Uncertain if PrizePicks aims for a sports betting license in the state

PrizePicks, a prominent player in the gaming industry, has successfully obtained approval to reenter the New York market, paving the way for an expansion that bridges the gap between fantasy contests and the high-stakes world of sports betting. By pledging to launch engaging peer-to-peer games in the state shortly, the company is setting the stage for an innovative experience that appeals to fans looking to elevate their engagement with sports betting. This development represents a significant step forward, offering New York users a fresh way to interact with their favorite athletes and the evolving landscape of competitive wagering.

Sports betting — Image by Up-Free from Pixabay

After facing challenges, including a $15 million settlement with the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) for operating without a proper gaming license, PrizePicks exited the New York market in February 2024. Since then, the Atlanta-based firm has collaborated with state regulators to create a compliant plan for reentering the market.

To align with New York’s updated fantasy sports regulations, PrizePicks worked closely with state officials, ensuring that the newly offered contests qualify as games of skill under the state’s fantasy sports laws. New York is now the 16th jurisdiction to officially recognize PrizePicks games.

The company is now equipped with an interactive fantasy sports operating license in New York, which permits it to provide its services in this competitive market.

The Importance of Peer-to-Peer Methodology

PrizePicks’ peer-to-peer DFS framework evades many of the disputes that earlier iterations of these games faced, as they were predominantly against-the-house competitions, which often stirred regulatory concerns.

Under the peer-to-peer model, participants compete against one another rather than against the house. This structure is pivotal for operators like PrizePicks as it reinforces the argument that they do not resemble traditional sportsbooks, which would entail requiring different licenses from the state.

The firm has notably moved away from its previous against-the-house model. Currently, PrizePicks claims to be the largest DFS company in North America, although it only offers player versus house contests in three states: North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.

Recently, PrizePicks sold a 62.3% stake to lottery operator Allwyn for an initial cash payment of $1.6 billion, resulting in a total enterprise value of $2.5 billion for the DFS operator.

Future Sports Betting Opportunities in New York?

While PrizePicks did not directly comment on pursuing a sports betting license in New York, there remains a possibility following the open permit left by Genting’s Resorts World Bet departure. If PrizePicks can effectively follow compliance protocols associated with its fantasy sports operating permit, it may be well-positioned to compete for such a license.

Speculation arises about potential contenders for this license. Bet365 is rumored to be eyeing the license previously held by Genting, but this remains unverified.

In summary, PrizePicks’ reentry into the New York DFS scene is a major milestone. The company’s peer-to-peer model and efforts to comply with regulatory requirements may set the stage for future success, including the potential for sports betting operations.

This Virginia City Wants To Bring a Casino Resort to Town

January 15, 2026/in Blog/by admin

This Virginia City Wants To Bring a Casino Resort to Town

City leaders in Roanoke, Virginia, are exploring the idea of establishing a casino resort within the city limits. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to enhance economic development and tourism in the region.

The Context of Gaming in Virginia

Commercial casino gambling was officially endorsed in Virginia in 2020.
Currently, casinos are active in five cities across the state: Portsmouth, Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Petersburg.
Roanoke aims to join this list as a potential sixth city to host various gaming options including slot machines and live dealer table games.

On a Tuesday, city officials shocked many residents with an announcement revealing their intention to pursue a casino at the Berglund Center. This facility has served the community since 1971 and hosts a variety of events, from sports to concerts.

City at dusk — Image by lin2015 from Pixabay

The proposal, if approved, could allow Roanoke to transform the Berglund Center into a leading entertainment venue, aiming to draw a larger crowd of visitors and help stimulate the local economy.

Potential Economic Impact

Roanoke City Manager Valmarie Turner emphasized the urgency of this initiative during a recent meeting:

“This initiative presents an opportunity to create an entertainment district that would significantly enhance tourism, stimulate economic growth, and generate increased revenue for both the city and the region — funds that can be reinvested in our neighborhoods, schools, public safety, and infrastructure.”

The presence of a casino could also catalyze various job opportunities across the region. It is estimated that such a development could lead to the creation of roles in:

Hospitality
Gaming management
Professional services

Furthermore, the expansion of the gaming scene may even influence improvements in local transportation infrastructure, such as rail and airport services, enhancing overall accessibility.

Casinos: A Mixed Bag of Responses

Although casinos have the potential to spur significant economic benefits, they are not without controversy. Critics often raise concerns about:

Increased crime rates
Potential declines in local property values
Impacts on small businesses that may struggle to compete with larger establishments

Nevertheless, Roanoke’s Mayor, Joe Cobb, cited the need for revitalised economic activity in the city to stay competitive. He expressed excitement about the prospect of transforming Roanoke into a vibrant destination for both residents and tourists.

“As Roanoke continues our vibrant growth in economic innovation, we are excited about creating new opportunities for residents and tourists alike to explore our Star City.”

The Road Ahead: Changes in State Law Needed

Before moving forward, Roanoke will require support from state lawmakers to introduce local gambling via a ballot referendum. Currently, no local representatives have shown intent to champion this initiative. Advocacy for state law changes may be necessary to overcome potential lobbying from existing casinos nearby, which are concerned about new competition.

Conclusion

The proposal to introduce a casino in Roanoke could lead to substantial economic benefits for the city and the wider Southwest Virginia region. As the city navigates these complex discussions, the community will need to weigh the benefits against the potential social implications. While the final decision rests with local and state authorities, active community engagement and understanding of all perspectives will be critical in shaping the future of Roanoke’s entertainment landscape.

From Greyhound Racing to Casino Gaming: Should West Virginia Shift Its Focus? | 10BET

January 15, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Should West Virginia Pivot from Greyhound Racing to Casino Gaming? Officials Have Polarizing Views

West Virginia holds a unique position in the landscape of American entertainment as the only state where live greyhound racing is still conducted, offering a distinct alternative to the traditional casino gaming found elsewhere. However, a recent federal bill aims to put an end to this practice across the United States, sparking intense debate among local officials regarding how such a ban might reshape the states diverse gambling industry and its competitive edge in the world of casino gaming.

Under West Virginia’s gaming law, all casino slot machines and table games must operate at state-sanctioned horse or greyhound racetracks where live racing still occurs. The only exception is the Casino Club at The Greenbrier, which holds a unique non-racing gaming license.

The House Resolution 5017, introduced by Rep. Salud Carbajal and 15 bipartisan cosponsors, calls for the closure of West Virginia’s greyhound racing industry. Some officials argue this would cause severe economic damage to the state.

Implications of Greyhound Racing Closure

Economic Impact: Proponents assert that the closure would eliminate specialized career opportunities tied directly to the greyhound racing sector.
Job Losses: Many business owners, trainers, and their families rely on this industry for their livelihoods.

“These are specialized economic and employment opportunities directly tied to the industry which would be gone tomorrow if racing is eliminated,” said West Virginia Delegate Shawn Fluharty.

Claims of Greyhound Abuse

While supporters of the federal bill claim that banning greyhound racing is necessary to prevent inhumane treatment of dogs, some argue that these claims are exaggerated. Critics of these accusations suggest that welfare concerns stem from misinformation.

“Those misconceptions of abuse and neglect are just people putting out lies. I always tell people, ‘Believe your eyes and not the lies’,” stated Steve Sarras, a prominent greyhound breeder in West Virginia, emphasizing the health and fitness of racing dogs.

Opposition and Reports of Abuse

On the flip side, organizations such as GREY2K advocate for an end to greyhound racing and assert that these dogs are kept in confinement for long hours and exposed to harmful substances. Reports of injuries and cases of neglect have raised serious safety concerns.

According to the West Virginia Racing Commission, there were more than 300 greyhound injuries reported so far in 2025.
This includes 104 dogs suffering broken bones and 12 reported fatalities.

West Virginia’s Gaming Revenue Landscape

In 2024, West Virginia’s gross gaming revenue reached an impressive $878.8 million, marking a new high since 2012. This growth predominantly originated from online platforms, with significant increases in:

iGaming Revenue: Soared by 57% to approximately $246.5 million.
Online Sports Betting: Increased by more than 16%, amounting to $55.4 million.

Conversely, in-person casino revenues dipped slightly by 3.5% to $576.9 million, indicating a shift in consumer preference toward digital gaming options.

Summary

The debate over greyhound racing in West Virginia presents a complex interplay of economic interests versus animal welfare. While the potential job losses raise concerns across the state, advocates argue that the current treatment of racing dogs warrants urgent reform. As legislative actions unfold, all eyes will be on the decisions that may shape the future of both greyhound racing and the broader gaming industry in West Virginia.