State Senator Says Hard Rock Queens Casino Has ‘Good Shot’ at Securing Essential Casino Licenses

• State senator says Cohen/Hard Rock bid has credible shot of approval
• Project is viewed as a leading contender for one of three downstate permits
• Politician opposes casinos in Manhattan

A plan spearheaded by Steven Cohen and Hard Rock International aims to establish a casino hotel in Queens, presenting a viable chance at securing one of the three downstate casino licenses available in New York. State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (D) recently shared his insights during an interview, expressing optimism about the potential of the Queens casino proposal.

The proposed project, known as *Metropolitan Park*, is projected to cost $8 billion and will be a large entertainment complex that includes diverse dining options, entertainment venues, green spaces, and a gaming area. The plans also promise 25 acres of parkland for public use, highlighting five acres dedicated to athletic fields, various eateries, a live music venue, improved cycling access, and a substantial $163 million community impact fund.

Despite his cautious support for the Queens plan, Senator Hoylman-Sigal maintains opposition to any expansion of gaming in New York, citing potential negative impacts on local communities, including increased crime and traffic, as well as gambling addiction.

Hoylman-Sigal Still Opposed to Manhattan Casino

Historically, Senator Hoylman-Sigal has been critical of casino projects in Manhattan, where he is running for borough president. He directly stated, “If you want a casino in Manhattan, don’t vote for Brad Hoylman-Sigal,” indicating his strong stance against the potential degradation of local quality of life. He claims that residents he has spoken to during his campaign overwhelmingly oppose a casino in their area, characterizing casinos as “shortsighted” solutions for generating revenue in a cash-strapped state.

“The problems that casinos bring to neighborhoods are well documented. Those cost the public purse a lot of money too,” he remarked. However, he noted, “If a community strongly embraces a casino in another borough, more power to them.”

Queens Casino Could Have Tailwinds

In an environment where eight bids have been submitted for the three downstate licenses, the Hard Rock proposal seems increasingly viable, especially given the sentiment against casinos in Manhattan. There is speculation that existing contenders, MGM Resorts International’s Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Resorts World New York in Queens, are likely frontrunners, suggesting that other proposals, including Hard Rock’s, may be vying for a single remaining permit.

Additional Insights on the Casino Landscape

The evolving casino landscape in New York has sparked discussions on several fronts:

• Community engagement remains vital, with many residents advocating for measures to minimize potential negative impacts.
• The economic benefits of casino establishments, including job creation and increased tourism, continue to be points of contention.
• Future proposals must address concerns regarding gambling addiction and public safety.

In conclusion, while the Hard Rock Queens Casino project has received a vote of confidence from Senator Hoylman-Sigal, its ultimate approval hinges on the outcome of regulatory evaluations and community sentiment. The unfolding developments will be closely watched as they may reshape the gambling landscape in New York City.

Vegas Myths Busted: Does Wearing Red Influence Casino Surveillance?

Table of Contents: An essential guide to understanding the complex layers of casino surveillance, outlining how monitoring technologies ensure game integrity and security.

In an intriguing look at superstitions surrounding casino attire, the assertion that women should avoid wearing red in casinos comes from a book which claims infrared security cameras can see through thin red fabrics. This curious belief has sparked debates and discussions among casino-goers and security experts alike.

The Myth Explained

The claim suggests that black-and-white surveillance cameras equipped with infrared capabilities perceive the color red as an off-white hue, making it potentially easier to see through certain fabrics. George Joseph, a casino surveillance expert, elaborated that while the human eye typically observes light in the range of 400 to 700 nanometers, infrared cameras can detect wavelengths much beyond that, theoretically affecting visibility in red clothing.

• Misconception 1: Red clothing is transparent under infrared camera surveillance.
• Expert Insight: This idea has been debunked by seasoned professionals in the field.

Expert Opinions on the Matter

Fred Del Marva, another seasoned surveillance expert, has stated, “I’ve never heard of this claim, and casinos are constantly on the lookout for potential liability issues.” His experience includes consulting for several major casinos such as Caesars Palace and The Mirage.

The Infrared Camera Conundrum

While it’s true that certain cameras can exhibit quirks under specific conditions, Del Marva pointed out that such effects are typically associated with powerful sunlight rather than the artificial lighting found indoors in casinos. The effect of sheer fabrics revealing more than intended could only occur under extreme circumstances that are rarely encountered.

Scientific Clarity

Science dictates that most fabrics, including thin silk, block infrared light effectively enough to prevent the visibility of anything beyond vague outlines. Such conclusions are backed by reliable internet sources and underscore that the idea of casino cameras allowing detailed viewing through clothing is more fantasy than fact.

Joseph’s Book

Joseph’s self-published book aims to answer numerous questions about gambling in Las Vegas, yet this particular claim about red clothing takes up only a small section and falls short on substantial evidence. According to Del Marva, major casinos would have informed their patrons if such claims were valid, but they’ve never done so.

Conclusion

The mythology surrounding casino attire often ties back to misinterpretations and sensational claims, like the myth of the red dress. What we uncovered is a product of misinformed speculation rather than grounded facts. As it stands, women should feel free to wear whatever colour makes them confident—a red dress included! Keep these insights in mind the next time you plan a trip to a casino, and don’t hesitate to wear your favourite outfit.

For similar discussions and debunked myths, check out related articles on similar topics!

Heavy Metal Star’s $28M Castle Near the Las Vegas Strip: A High-Stakes Luxury Buy

Most people wouldn’t recognise Zoltan Bathory if he passed them in a grocery store. He’s not a reality TV fixture or a household name. Yet his loud heavy-metal band, Five Finger Death Punch, has quietly amassed more than 12 billion streams and 28 Top 10 singles since 2007.

And that’s why the 47-year-old guitarist can list a replica of a 17th-century Scottish castle for sale in Las Vegas for $28 million.

Located eight miles west of the Strip, this three-storey, 12,720 square-foot estate features turrets, imported stonework, and medieval touches befitting a rock star who has built an empire in the shadows of pop culture.

Property Overview

• Name: Rose Manor
• Size: 12,720 square feet
• Location: The Lakes, Las Vegas
• Bedrooms: 5
• Bathrooms: 8
• Special Features:
  • Saltwater pool
  • Four-car garage
  • Double dock on Lake Sahara
  • Imported 15th-century gates and 17th-century fireplace mantels
  • Glass-enclosed rooftop deck with panoramic views

Bathory initially approached the home’s previous owners, Paul and Gemma Zeppa, in 2019, intending to rent the property for a video shoot. When they declined, he purchased it outright for $3.25 million, according to property records.

He’s asking significantly more now as he has spent the last six years remodelling the estate with architect Michael Murphy of Blue Heron, a high-end Las Vegas custom home design firm.

Murphy and Bathory spared no expense, importing stunning 15th-century gates, 17th-century mantels, along with 500-year-old beams and doors. The interiors, which were originally designed with small rooms and low ceilings typical of Victorian castles, were opened up to create a more airy and modern feel.

Even the rooftop deck received a makeover; it’s now enclosed in glass with 360-degree views and features an elevator cleverly disguised as a chimney.

“There is nothing in the home that wasn’t touched other than the exterior walls,” said listing agent Monica Nalbantoglu of the Rob Jensen Co. to reporters.

The castle was originally designed by architect Robert Symons for Larry and Lisa Miller, who built it in 1991 at a cost reportedly around $8.5 million. This figure includes $1.7 million spent on custom stained glass windows imported from the UK, and $1.4 million on exquisite hand-carved mahogany woodwork.

Background on Zoltan Bathory

Bathory shared his motivation behind the renovations and the decision to sell: “I’m an artist,” he shared in an interview, “and the real thrill for me is in creating something that is monumental, something that will outlast me.”

This unique home reflects not only Bathory’s eclectic taste but also a commitment to high craftsmanship, making it a coveted listing in the Las Vegas area.

As Bathory embarks on his next project, potential buyers can marvel at the blend of rock star flair and rich architectural history, making this castle a true gem on the Las Vegas market.

Summary

Zoltan Bathory’s Las Vegas castle offers a lavish lifestyle infused with history and luxurious details. With its unique design and extensive remodelling, it not only serves as a stunning residence but also a symbol of Bathory’s artistic vision and dedication to quality craftsmanship. For those with a passion for unique properties, this castle is much more than just a house; it’s a statement.

Las Vegas Casinos Win Major Legal Victory in Price-Fixing Lawsuit

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Wynn Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Treasure Island have come out victorious against a consumer class action lawsuit, with the US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit confirming a lower-court dismissal of accusations that the hotels conspired to fix room rates by utilising shared pricing software.

Case Overview

The unanimous decision made by a three-judge panel in San Francisco supported findings from a US District Court that determined the plaintiffs had not demonstrated that the resorts had mutually agreed to adopt pricing recommendations from a revenue-management platform provided by Cendyn.

Circuit Judge Carlos Bea, accompanied by Circuit Judge Ana de Alba and US District Court Judge Jeffrey Brown, commented, “Rather than eliminating competition, pricing one’s hotel rooms to maximise profits is how one competes.” This subtle distinction between competition and collusion was crucial in the court’s reasoning.

Defendant Exclusion

Initially, MGM Resorts was listed as a defendant in the original class action filed in January 2023. However, it was notably excluded from the appeal without any further explanation documented in the court records.

The plaintiffs claimed that the hotel chains provided sensitive data to Cendyn’s system, which subsequently issued pricing advice, purportedly leading to increased room rates. However, during the proceedings, the court highlighted that the hotels retained their discretion over pricing, thus bluntly rejecting claims that this constituted a restriction on market fair play.

Ongoing Litigation Trends

The lawsuit is indicative of a rising trend focusing on the utilisation of revenue-optimisation platforms within the hospitality sector. In fact, a previous analogous price-fixing lawsuit targeting Atlantic City hotel-casinos was dismissed just a few months earlier.

In May, Chief US District Judge Miranda Du advanced the narrative further by asserting that non-binding price suggestions do not amount to trade restraint. This decision further reinforces the defence mechanisms against potential future claims made against similar operational frameworks within the industry.

Key Facts

• Les Vegas casino giants Wynn Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Treasure Island jointly faced a class-action lawsuit.
• The courts ruled in their favour, citing lack of evidence for collusion.
• MGM Resorts was initially a co-defendant but was excluded from the appellate proceedings.
• This case reflects a growing trend of litigation concerning revenue-optimisation software in hospitality.
• Earlier similar lawsuits in Atlantic City were also dismissed based on non-binding pricing advice not being a trade restraint.

Conclusion

The successful dismissal of this class-action lawsuit is a significant win for the Las Vegas resorts, setting a legal precedent that non-binding price suggestions from revenue-management software do not inhibit competition. With ongoing scrutiny and similar cases cropping up across the industry, this outcome showcases a nuanced understanding of market dynamics by both the courts and the hospitality sector. It’s a reminder for industry players to tread carefully as they navigate pricing strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Modo Casino Brings the Social Casino Experience to the Track as Sponsor of the No. 77 NASCAR Car

Key Highlights:

• Modo is a social casino brand.
• Will be the main sponsor for Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 car in four NASCAR races.

Modo Casino, in collaboration with Spire Motorsports, is set to sponsor Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 car for four exhilarating NASCAR races this season, kicking off with the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Dayton International Speedway.

Part of Miami’s ARB Interactive, Modo recently acquired Publishers Clearing House (PCH). This partnership marks ARB’s second venture into motorsport sponsorship, having previously secured a deal with the BWT Alpine Formula One (F1) team.

“I’m excited to kick off the Modo Casino partnership and introduce its games to the NASCAR community,” Carson Hocevar, driver of the No. 77 car, commented. “With Modo Casino’s presence expanding through Formula 1 and collaborations with content creators, I’m thrilled to join the team and contribute to that growth.”

Following the Daytona race, Modo will support Hocevar’s ride across three additional races in October, including thrilling events at The Roval at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Martinsville Speedway. Hocevar was ranked 20^th in the points standings ahead of the Richmond race.

Modo Casino: Making Waves in the Gaming Industry

NASCAR is renowned for its strong corporate partnerships, attracting sponsorships from diverse industries. Modo Casino distinguishes itself as “America’s fastest-growing social casino platform,” offering players a unique chance to “wager” for free-to-win prizes, ranging from cash to unforgettable experiences. Users engage with in-game coins to play popular casino games, including slots and table games such as baccarat and blackjack.

Importantly, Modo positions its offerings away from the typical controversies that surround sweepstakes casinos, maintaining a free-to-play model.

“Modo Casino is designed for thrill-seekers who crave casino excitement anytime, anywhere. With a mix of classic table games and the latest video slots, Modo constantly adds new games, appealing to all types of players,” Modo states on ARB’s website.

While social casinos like Modo promote a friendlier alternative to traditional wagering environments, often focusing more on entertainment than on stakes, they generally do not offer opportunities for winning real money.

The Expanding Relationship Between NASCAR and Betting

Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling on the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), NASCAR has actively engaged with various gaming enterprises. Notably, FanDuel has become the official gaming partner of the NASCAR series, while numerous races are now sponsored by various casinos.

In recent events, sportsbook operators such as BetMGM and DraftKings have also engaged in sponsorship opportunities with NASCAR, showcasing a growing trend of collaboration within the sports and gaming industries.

Additional Information:

• Modo Casino is structured to avoid controversies tied to traditional gambling.
• With ongoing expansions, Modo focuses on connecting with diverse audiences through innovative partnerships.
• NASCAR’s relationship with gaming continues to develop, increasing engagement among fans and betting companies alike.

In summary, Modo Casino’s partnership with NASCAR not only boosts its market visibility but also highlights the increasing convergence between sports and gaming. As both sectors continue to influence each other, Modo’s sponsorship encapsulates the exciting potential of this relationship while providing unique entertainment experiences for fans.