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RSI, or Rush Street Interactive, has just unveiled its latest offering: a new VIP rewards platform named iRush Rewards. The new platform is meant to make it much easier for players to keep track of their accounts and redeem as well as earn points, and promises a number of other perks. Rush Street Interactive, a prominent player in the online gaming industry, published the launch of its new VIP rewards program, iRush Rewards, last Monday. This new program is designed to simplify the process for bettors for earning and redeeming points, while providing a clearer view of their existing status within the program. The move marks a significant step for RSI in its quest to enhance customer loyalty and retention. A tiered approach to rewards iRush Rewards adopts a tiered system commonly seen in traditional rewards programs in casinos. The program's structure is divided into three distinct tiers: Gold, Platinum, and Black, each offering unique benefits and perks. This marks the first time that Rush Street Interactive has applied tier credits within its rewards plan, allowing bettors to earn both loyalty points and bonus store points. One notable feature of the iRush Rewards program is that once a player is able to reach a specific tier level, they can retain the benefits associated with that tier for the remainder of the current earning period (six months), plus the entire next six-month period, up to a full year. For example, a player who attains Black Tier status on the 12th of January, 2024, will maintain that status until the 31st of December, 2024. This extension is aimed at providing added value to players and ensuring a longer-term commitment to the platform. The iRush Rewards program is available in several North American markets where RSI operates. These include US states such as New Jersey, Delaware, Colorado, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Virginia, New York, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. It also includes Ontario, Canada. This broad geographic reach positions RSI to capture a diverse audience of online gamers and sports bettors all the while enhancing its competitiveness in the iGaming and sports wagering market. Enhancing customer acquisition through loyalty programs Loyalty programs are a proven strategy for customer acquisition and retention across various industries, including hotels, airlines, and casinos. However, iGaming and online sportsbook operators without ties to on-site gaming venues often struggle to match the effectiveness of standard gaming counterparts in leveraging such programs. Additionally, new bettors frequently face challenges in understanding how they can earn points and what rewards these points can be converted into. RSI's new rewards program addresses these concerns with a straightforward approach. "Players now earn points based on the type of casino game they are playing, such as slots, progressive slots, video poker, or table games," the company explained in a press release. It added that additionally, sports bettors now earn points for Same Game Parlays depending on the number of legs, instead of a single rate applied before. This change provides greater value to SGP bettors when they bet with BetRivers. Greater transparency in rewards programs Transparency and clarity are essential components of a successful rewards program, and RSI is undoubtedly aware of this. Whether it's a casino rewards platform or a frequent flier miles program, customers appreciate knowing their current status and what steps they need to take to get to the next level. While hotel and airline rewards programs are clear in this regard, some gaming operators (whether online or land-based), have faced criticism for their opacity. RSI is taking steps to alleviate these concerns with its revamped loyalty platform. "The new loyalty interfaces allow players to view and track from a single location their status, points, and advancement toward higher levels and tiers," the company stated. It added that additionally, players can easily see their existing benefits and, equally important, the benefits they will be entitled to upon reaching the next level or tier. By offering a more intuitive and transparent rewards program, RSI is all set to strengthen its customer acquisition and retention strategies. As the competition in the iGaming and sports betting markets intensifies, innovations like iRush Rewards could provide Rush Street Interactive with a distinct advantage.

This just in: Wynn Resorts, along with real estate developer Related Cos., has just released more new details about their proposed NYC project in the Hudson Yards. The development will include a casino hotel, but there will also be an integrated resort, housing units, and a new public school. It will also feature a park, Hudson Green, with a dog run and native flowers and trees. Wynn Resorts, in partnership with Related Cos., the real estate developer, has revealed new details of their ambitious $12 billion plan to develop Manhattan's Hudson Yards West. The proposed project includes a casino hotel and will transform the area into a vibrant mixed-use community. A 5.6-acre public park, dubbed the “centerpiece” of the development, will be a key feature of the project, and, if approved, the development could generate thousands of well-paying union jobs. A rendering of Wynn New York City, the proposed mixed-use development and casino resort on the West Side of Manhattan, showcases the developers' vision for the Western Rail Yards area. The project outlines the creation of 1,500 housing units (which includes 324 affordable apartments) as well as a new public school. However, the proposal has sparked controversy, with critics pointing out that Related Cos. had previously committed to delivering between 3,454 to 5,700 housing units when it reached an agreement with New York City to develop the Western Rail Yards in 2009. Community concerns and opposition The proposed plan that also includes a tower with the Wynn name has met with opposition from a community group known as the High Line. The group is committed to protecting the New York neighborhood and its iconic views, and it is joined by local politicians who argue that a gaming venue is inappropriate for this part of the city. Despite the pushback, Wynn Resorts and Related Cos. have been keen to highlight the potential benefits of the development. According to the companies, the project would provide economic and social advantages to the community, including the creation of Hudson Green, a proposed public park. Hudson Green: a new urban oasis In their statement, Wynn Resorts and Related Cos. describe Hudson Green as a vibrant public space featuring "a dog run, over 300 trees, 500 shrubs, flower beds, and various native plantings throughout the active landscape." Designed by both Wynn Design and Develop (the team responsible for the luxurious designs of Wynn's casino hotels), Hudson Green is being compared to Bryant Park, one of New York City's most beloved green spaces. "Wynn New York City will anchor the development, completing a decades-long revitalization of Manhattan's West Side," according to a press release from the two companies. They further stated that this new vision for Hudson Yards West adheres to the approved uses in the 2009 zoning but has also progressed to reflect the existing landscape of the city and its economic infrastructure needs. They added that Wynn New York City is the "economic engine supporting this development and will create careers for thousands of New Yorkers while offering significant benefits to all sectors of the community." However, despite the companies' ambitious plans, regulators in New York have yet to open the bidding for the three casino permits to be awarded by the state, and it's a process that is expected to extend well into 2025 or even beyond. Economic impact and job creation Wynn Resorts and Related Cos. are emphasizing the economic benefits of the project, including the significant creation of new jobs. According to the companies, the development of Wynn New York City would result in 35,000 jobs in construction alone. When it opens, an additional 5,000 union jobs would be created. This could lead to better income tax collections in a state that is greatly reliant on this revenue source, especially as New York struggles with ongoing budget challenges. Bruce Beal, President of Related Cos., emphasized the economic potential of the development in a statement, saying, "It's easy for leaders to talk about wanting to create jobs and invest in the economy and infrastructure, but our proposal to develop Hudson Yards West would actually do it, which is why it continues to garner important support from unions, trade organizations, and small businesses." A project on hold But while Wynn Resorts and Related Cos. are pitching their proposal as a much-needed economic boon for New York, the project's fate remains uncertain. With state regulators not expected to open the bidding for downstate casino licenses until 2025 or later, it could be some time before the future of the Hudson Yards West development becomes clear.

Delaware has just released its iGaming revenue for July at over $5.1 million. This shows a slight increase from the month of June, which had a revenue of over $5 million, while in May, the revenue for iGaming was at more than $3.8 million. Delaware's online casino industry continued its upward trajectory in July, posting a modest increase in total net gaming revenue (NGR) following a surge in June. According to data released by the Delaware Lottery, the state's net gaming revenue for July reached $5,193,734, up from $5,027,201 in June. While the month-over-month increase wasn't as dramatic as the June spike, it still signifies healthy growth in the state's online gaming sector. This continued rise follows a substantial jump in net gaming revenue from May to June. In May, Delaware's online casinos netted $3,896,433 in NGR, showing the significant gains made over the subsequent months. The sustained growth in July stresses the resilience and growing popularity of online gaming in Delaware. Delaware Park dominates Delaware's online gaming sector is managed by the Delaware Lottery, which runs three online poker sites and three online casinos, alongside the state lottery. Among the online casinos, Delaware Park once again emerged as the top performer in July, contributing $2,851,216 to the state's total NGR. This marked a significant share of the total, with the remaining revenue split between Harrington Raceway & Casino, which generated $1,232,776, and Bally's Dover Casino, which contributed $1,018,743. Delaware Park's strong performance can be attributed to several factors, including its seamless integration with Rush Street Interactive's (RSI) BetRivers platform, which Delaware Lottery officially transitioned to in January. This move, which was part of a broader effort to modernize and enhance the state's gaming offerings online, has provided players with a revamped selection of online casino games and a wider array of withdrawal and deposit options. The transition to RSI's platform followed a public Request for Proposal (RFP) process, which saw RSI taking over from 888 Holdings, the previous platform provider. The introduction of the BetRivers platform has been credited with driving user engagement and boosting the performance of Delaware's online casinos, particularly Delaware Park. Speculation around DraftKings and RSI As Delaware's online gaming market continues to grow and expand, industry speculation is growing about potential mergers and acquisitions that could further reshape the DE landscape. Recent reports from Earnings + More suggest that DraftKings, one of the biggest names in sports betting and online gaming, might be eyeing a potential acquisition of RSI. If such a move were to materialize, it could have significant implications for Delaware's online gaming market, particularly for the casinos operating on the BetRivers platform. While these rumors remain unconfirmed, the possibility of a DraftKings-RSI deal is something that everyone is closely monitoring. A successful acquisition could bring additional resources, technological advancements, and marketing power to Delaware's online casinos, potentially fueling further growth. Fiscal Year 2024 ends on a high note The end of July also marked the close of Delaware's 2024 fiscal year, with total net gaming revenue reaching $31,935,265. This impressive figure shows the steady growth and increasing popularity of online gaming within the state. The transition to RSI's platform and the introduction of new gaming options have resonated with players, helping drive these revenue gains. As Delaware enters the new fiscal year, the state's online gaming industry appears poised for continued success. With strong performances from key players like Delaware Park and ongoing industry developments (including the prospective involvement of major players like DraftKings), the future of online gaming in Delaware looks promising, growing at a steady pace.

The MegaMillions has announced its 9th-largest draw yet: an amazing $575 million, which is all set to be drawn tonight. If there is a winner, that is. But this has been a slow year for MegaMillions, as only two tickets have matched the winning number combinations. In March, a New Jersey ticket matched the more than $1.2 billion jackpot, which is yet unclaimed, and in June, a ticket in Illinois matched the prize of $552 million, the 10th biggest jackpot prize ever. The MegaMillions lottery has once again captured the nation's attention as it climbs into 9th place of the country's biggest prize draws in the game's history. With an estimated jackpot of $575 million, Tuesday night's drawing at 11 pm Eastern Time is set to offer one of the largest prizes the game has ever seen. The excitement surrounding this jackpot is obvious as players across the country eagerly anticipate the chance to win life-changing money. A game of high stakes The $575 million jackpot ranks as the ninth-largest in MegaMillions history, and it comes with a one-time cash option of about $285.5 million. Both figures are before taxes, with the winner potentially facing federal and state tax deductions. Despite the enormous prize, the odds of hitting the jackpot remain steep, standing at a daunting one in 302.5 million. MegaMillions has had 23 successive drawings, with each drawing without any ticket that matches all six numbers - the gold Mega Ball and five white balls. This streak of no winners has only fueled the anticipation surrounding the upcoming drawing. While the odds of winning remain slim, the growing pool of ticket sales means more potential combinations are covered, slightly increasing the likelihood of a winner. Recent wins and a slow year This year has been relatively quiet for MegaMillions, with only two jackpots claimed so far. On March 26, there was a lone ticket in New Jersey that matched all six numbers, securing a massive $1.128 billion prize. But despite the staggering win, the ticket remains unredeemed, with the holder having up to one year to come forward and claim their prize. The second big win came on June 4, when a ticket in Illinois won a jackpot with a prize of $552 million. This prize now ranks as the 10th largest in MegaMillions history. MegaMillions, which debuted in 1996 as The Big Game and later rebranded to its current name in 2003, has a history of producing enormous jackpots. Its longer odds compared to Powerball - approximately one in 292.2 million - have contributed to the game's reputation for generating massive jackpots. Since the year 2018, it has generated six total jackpots exceeding $1 billion, including its record-breaking $1.537 billion prize won in South Carolina in 2018. Texas ticket on notice While the excitement builds for Tuesday's drawing, MegaMillions officials are also issuing a reminder to players in Texas. A winning ticket from the March 19 drawing, which is worth $1 million, is approaching its end date. The ticket was purchased at the All-Season Food store, located at 3411 Antoine Drive in Houston. The ticket matched all five white balls - 24, 46, 49, 62, and 66 - but missed the Mega Ball, qualifying it for the prize of $1 million. The winner, who has yet to come forward, did not opt for the $1 Megaplier, which would have doubled their prize to $2 million. The deadline for claiming the prize is Sunday, the 15th of September. Lottery officials urge anyone who purchased a ticket at that location to check their numbers and claim the prize before it's too late. The MegaMillions legacy Since its inception, MegaMillions has grown into one of the most popular lottery games in the United States. Played in 45 states, plus the US Virgin Islands and Washington, D.C., the game has a broad reach and a devoted following. A ticket price is $2, and many jurisdictions offer a $1 add-on called the Megaplier, which can multiply non-jackpot prizes. MegaMillions’ reputation for producing massive jackpots has only increased its popularity over the years. While Powerball holds the record for the largest jackpot in US history - a $2.04 billion prize won in 2022 by a player in California - MegaMillions has consistently delivered some of the largest lottery prizes in the world.

After spending a three-team season in the 2023-24 campaign, Danilo Gallinari now seeks to play in the NBA for one last season with the hopes of making the most of his chances before he retires from the game for good. The Italian big man hopes that he could sign with an NBA team heading into the 2024-25 season. Danilo Gallinari has played for a lot of basketball teams in his career, going for the likes of Casalpusterlengo, Olimpia Milano, and Nuova Pavia before finally declaring for the 2008 NBA Draft, where he was selected by the New York Knicks with the sixth overall pick. Gallinari would go on to play for the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Atlanta Hawks, Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons, and recently the Milwaukee Bucks. While he did not have much accolades in the NBA, Gallinari has been one of the reliable big men in the game who has a talent to shoot the ball from almost anywhere in the court. It is also worth noting that Gallinari has seen multiple years in the NBA Playoffs, which has made him quite a reliable player to keep in any squad. Hoping for a Final Push in the NBA Gallinari spent a season with three teams last season, and while he is already keen to go for a retirement plan, the Italian big man seeks a chance to prove his worth one last time. At the age of 36, Gallinari is still a sharpshooter in his own right and is definitely expected to be a major contributor in scoring for any team that he will play for. “A return to Italy? Not yet,” Gallinari responded when asked about the possibility of joining the EuroLeague. “There is still time for me in the market, anything can happen at any time. Miami? It’s not my time yet, there are other free agents and we’ll decide later. It could be anywhere, as long as it’s a competitive franchise.” The Italian big man was seen as a massive addition for the Boston Celtics two years ago, but a torn ACL held him back from playing in the 2022-23 season. That prompted the Celtics to move on from him and pack him up in a deal that would send Kristaps Porzingis to the Celtics while Gallinari played for the Washington Wizards. A Reliable Veteran Player At the age of 36, it is worth noting that Gallinari is already far from his prime in the game. However, he did manage to play in a total of 49 games in the 2023-24 season, averaging career-lows with 5.7 points and 2.2 rebounds while shooting 43.7% from the field, including 32.3% from deep. He is still quite a reliable player in his own right, and he even played in the Trentino Basketball Cup with the Italian national team, where he was even named MVP. For now, the 6-10 big man is expected to attract a few offers from teams with a desirable cap space in the coming weeks. With the NBA season coming in fast, it is easy to expect that there will be a lot of discussions as to how he can impact any team that will sign him moving forward. But who knows, maybe Gallinari can even help a team reach a deeper run in the NBA Playoffs or even come up with a strong rally all the way to the NBA Finals. At this point, his final run in the NBA is going to be a promising journey to look out for.

Diego Schwartzman fell to French veteran star Gael Monfils in the first round of the US Open, losing in four sets on Grandstand. The Argentine star stole a set before losing the final three in the match, amassing only a total of five won games in that stretch. But what shocked the fans in the game was the sudden decision for Schwartzman to bid farewell from the US Open for good. In fact, he’s on his final Tour run in the ATP as he is slated to retire from the game in Argentina next year. Former world no. 8 Diego Schwartzman was hoping for a promising run in the US Open after he’s had a great run in the game over the years. The Argentine star was seeking to come up with a deep push in this year’s edition, only to end up losing to Monfils in the first round. Now he seeks to take a short break for a while and consider his next set of games to play in the final stretch of his career. This news comes after another top 10 ATP Tour star, Dominic Thiem, claimed that this is his final New York campaign with an emotional note. This has been quite a shocking week for ATP Tour fans so far, and it cannot be denied that Schwartzman’s decision to retire despite being fully healthy in the game is quite baffling. A Special Moment in the US Open Schwartzman allowed 16 aces from Monfils in the loss, but that is not the focus of his post-game drama, which has seen more attention than the actual game itself. A video montage of Schwartzman’s biggest moments in the previous US Open campaigns was shown after the game, which definitely drew tears from the Argentine star. “These are special moments, like you saw before on the screen,” said Schwartzman, referring to a montage video played on court after the match. “Once again, playing here, 11 times in a row. Playing in a Grand Slam, at the US Open. I don’t know why they take care of me so well every year, and I’m not sure if I deserve it or not, but I’m really grateful for all the years I have been here.” Schwartzman admitted that he is a guy who cries a lot, and he sure did not hold back as he had tears in his final post-match interview in the US Open, which has certainly seen fans feel the drama unfold when it comes to his final run at the hard-court major. What’s Next for Schwartzman? Still, Schwartzman is not slated to retire from the game until February, when he will play in a home game in Argentina. However, the Argentine star did claim that he will be moving on from the big games in his career, marking the US Open as the final run of his majors. "It has been great. Many years, time passes very, very quickly. I am very happy with how things have gone for me here and also with how the public has treated me over all these years,” said Schwartzman. “In the end, it was a finale that I always dreamed of, on a big court against a great rival like Gael.” Schwartzman enjoyed the best of his moments in the ATP Tour, and it cannot be denied that he will always remember his great journey in the US Open – being a two-time finalist in the major over the years.

Achieving a promising and historic stat line in the game has been quite a challenge to many players in the MLB over the years, but that did not stop Aaron Judge from reaching 50 homers right now, but it is worth noting that Shohei Ohtani is also on the verge of setting a historic record by reaching a 50-50 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. There are a lot of talks as to how Shohei Ohtani has been impeccable in his games with the Dodgers considering the way they have played under his lead. So far, Ohtani’s campaign in Mookie Betts’ absence has seen him play in a two-way role on both on the hitting side and even in the pitching side, and this has helped the Dodgers ascend to the top of the power rankings this week. This season has been a stunning show for Ohtani’s capabilities. Last week, Ohtani just stole his 40th base of the season and even went on to blast his 40th home run of the season in the bottom of the ninth inning. At the time, Ohtani was the sixth player in the history of the league to capture at least 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season – bringing him to the 40-40 club. History on the Horizon In a total of 128 games this year, Ohtani has amassed 41 homers and 40 stolen bases, and he still has 34 games left to play. This potentially means that Ohtani has what it takes to bring himself to another level with nine more home runs and steal at least 10 more bases. Achieving that mark brings him to the 50-50 club – the first in its kind for the 2024 season. No other player has managed to come up with a promising push in the history of the MLB as Ohtani’s pace is right now. According to multiple sportsbooks, Ohtani is expected to eclipse the 50-50 mark at +175, which means that fans believe that he can actually make history this season with a promising climb in his game. Over the years, only six players have managed to reach the 40-40 club aside from Ohtani, which includes Jose Canseco (A's, 1988), Barry Bonds (Giants, 1996), Alex Rodriguez (Mariners, 1998), Alfonso Soriano (Nationals, 2006), Ronald Acuna Jr. (Braves, 2023). The big difference, however, is the fact that Ohtani has reached the 40-40 feat in 21 fewer games, showing how well he is playing in his game right now. A Signature Dodgers Moment Ohtani isn’t also approaching the 50-50 record for himself either. The Dodgers star is closing in on the 45-45 feat – a mark that no player has ever reached in the game. Alex Rodriguez came close with 46 stolen bases and 42 homers; Soriano hit 46 homers along with 41 stolen bases, and Acuna stole 73 bases with 41 homers – but it is worth noting that no other player has managed to tally 45-45 at the very least. "I think that he wants to be the greatest player to ever play this game,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of Ohtani. “And when you start doing things like that, then you're certainly staking your claim." Ohtani is also a prime candidate for the NL MVP award this season – which is rare for a player set at the designated hitter post. This is also the first time in 17 years that a player has reached the 40-40 mark, and history will definitely be written when Ohtani eclipses the 50-50 mark.

Hard Rock Bet in New Jersey has achieved one of its most significant milestones yet: 2,000 games and growing. Along with this, it has reached 111k reviews on the App Store and continues to make waves in the state with new features and promotions. Hard Rock Bet, the online casino that launched in New Jersey in the middle of 2023, has rapidly established itself as a leading platform in the state's iGaming sector. In just one year alone, the platform has expanded its game library to over 2,000 titles, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for online casino enthusiasts. A year marked by milestones and achievements Since its debut, Hard Rock Bet has consistently delivered on its promise to offer a more robust gaming experience to players. The platform’s expansion to over 2,000 games as of August of 2024 marks a significant milestone, placing it among the top online casinos in New Jersey. "Reaching this milestone puts (us) among the top platforms in the state," the company stated. The rapid growth of Hard Rock Bet is a true testament to its commitment to providing a gaming experience that is both diverse and immersive. Over the past year, the platform has added 1,500 new games, spanning various genres, including blackjack, live dealer games, slots, and more. Some of the standout titles that have captivated players include Hard Rockin' Reels, Buffalo Gold Collection, Iron Eagle Power Combo, Nitropolis, Gold Blitz Extreme, Mega Diamond, and Crazy Time. This extensive selection is powered by collaborations with 43 leading game developers such as Light & Wonder, IGT, AGS, Aristocrat Interactive, and others, ensuring that players have access to top-tier gaming options. Enhancing the player experience Hard Rock Bet's success is not solely based on the quantity of games available but also on the quality of the overall player experience. The platform has made great strides in enhancing user engagement and satisfaction, which is reflected in its impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating on the App Store, garnered from over 111,000 reviews. This rating is one of the highest among New Jersey's online casinos. One of the key features contributing to this high level of customer satisfaction is the 'For You' section, a personalized page that offers unique promotions and offers tailored to each player's preferences and playing habits. This customization ensures that players receive relevant incentives, making their gaming experience more engaging and rewarding. In addition to personalized promotions, Hard Rock Bet is set to launch its highly anticipated Loyalty Program. This program will offer players the opportunity to redeem rewards not only within the online casino but also across Hard Rock's extensive network of hotels, restaurants and cafes, as well as brick-and-mortar casinos. This integration of online and offline rewards creates a seamless and valuable experience, further distinguishing Hard Rock Bet from its competitors. A vision for the future Grant Williams, Senior Vice President of Casino at Hard Rock Digital, expressed pride in the platform's accomplishments over the past year. "We're incredibly proud of the experience we've built in just 12 months since launching Hard Rock Bet in New Jersey," Williams said. He added that players are noticing, and it's not just the 2,000 gaming options from top providers, but also the exclusive experiences they have provided and their continued evolution with enhanced personalization, promotions, and complementary omnichannel activations in Atlantic City. Williams' remarks showcase Hard Rock Bet's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. The platform's focus on evolving its offerings and integrating them with the broader Hard Rock brand has set a new standard in the online casino industry. While Hard Rock Bet has made significant strides in New Jersey, its ambitions extend beyond the Garden State. The platform also runs an online sportsbook in several states, including Florida, Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, Virginia, and Tennessee.

A couple from Florida thought they had caught a break by winning $3K at a casino in Florida. But it seems that luck wasn't on their side after all, as two men caught up to them and ambushed them, shooting them on the legs and robbing them. The attackers also made off with jewelry and other valuables. The couple have decided to set up a GoFundMe page to recover some of their losses. A couple from Tampa has initiated a fundraising activity after a terrifying robbery left them wounded, mere hours after winning approximately $3,000 at Tampa's Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The incident, which occurred on August 1, has left the victims, Kim Chambliss and Val Delacruz, grappling with physical injuries and emotional trauma. Date night culminating in violence The couple had planned a relaxing evening, part of their date night ritual, which they plan each month. They started the night with dinner and drinks, eventually making their way to the casino floor, where Delacruz hit a jackpot. The couple, filled with excitement, collected their winnings and decided to head back to their Riverview, Florida, home. What they didn't know was that two men had been watching them closely for around two hours while at the casino and had tailed them on their 14-mile journey home. As Chambliss and Delacruz stepped out of their car in their driveway, they were ambushed by two masked men wielding guns. The robbers, later identified as Tristan Wright and Marcus Jenkins, allegedly unleashed a violent assault on the couple. At least three gunshots were fired during the attack. Delacruz was struck in both his legs, while Chambliss was shot in the calf. Despite her injuries, Chambliss managed to scream for help and struggled to make her way to the front porch of the house, with Delacruz crawling behind her in an attempt to protect her. Neighbor alerted to shots, cry for help The robbers continued their assault, with one of them even covering the couple's doorbell camera in an effort to conceal their identities. The violence only subsided when a neighbor, alerted by the commotion, came to assist the couple, prompting the robbers to flee. The assailants made off with assorted jewelry, a purse, and a watch. It remains unclear whether they were able to take the cash the couple had won at the casino. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was quickly notified of the incident. Deputies arrived promptly at the scene and applied a tourniquet to Delacruz's legs, a lifesaving measure that Delacruz credits with preventing him from bleeding to death. "I lost so much blood, if they didn't do that, I wouldn't have made it," Delacruz recounted. Two men arrested and charged In the days following the attack, authorities arrested Tristan Wright and Marcus Jenkins in connection with the robbery. Jenkins faces charges of first-degree attempted murder and other related crimes, while Wright has been charged as a principal to the murder attempt, among other offenses. A third suspect is still being sought by law enforcement. If convicted of attempted murder, Jenkins and Wright could face lengthy jail sentences. The ordeal has left Chambliss and Delacruz deeply shaken. Chambliss vividly recalled the horrifying moments when gunfire rang out, fearing that her boyfriend had been killed. Delacruz, now suffering from painful injuries, reflected on the incident, expressing disbelief that they had been followed without their knowledge. "I'm normally aware of my surroundings or would notice if someone was following me. But that night, we were in deep conversation," he said. A fundraiser to help with rising medical costs and other expenses Delacruz's injuries have severely impacted his ability to work. As a self-employed individual, he now faces months of recovery, relying on a walker, with one leg encased in a cast. The couple, struggling with mounting medical bills and other expenses, has turned to the community for support. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign, which had already raised $3,360 towards a $10,000 goal as of last Wednesday. The funds are intended to cover medical costs and help them navigate the financial crisis caused by the attack. On the GoFundMe page, Delacruz shared his emotional journey, stating, "I am a survivor of a senseless act of violence that changed my life forever. The physical and emotional scars from that day will always remain with me." Chambliss echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the terrifying reality that they were unsuspecting targets. "We're just average people... who are out having a good time,... who love each other and enjoy each other's company. And to know that we didn't even realize that people were following us every step of the way. It's scary. It's scary," she emphasized. The couple's story serves as a glaring reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of vigilance, even in moments of celebration. As they work to recover from this life-altering event, they hope that their experience will resonate with others and inspire support from their community.

The Tropicana has been a landmark in the landscape of Las Vegas since the 1950s - and in a significant moment, it is scheduled to be imploded on October 9. But contrary to the norm, where Vegas buildings are imploded away from the public eye to make way for new structures, its existing owners, Ballys Corp, have decided to throw a party - complete with fireworks and drones. Las Vegas is preparing to bid farewell to one of its last remaining relics from the Mafia-Rat Pack years. The Tropicana, an iconic symbol of the city's glitzy past, is slated for implosion in the early hours of October 9, according to its present owners. The demolition will mark the end of an era as the once-grand casino's remnants, including the gutted 22-story towers, will be reduced to rubble. The Tropicana, which first opened its doors on the 4th of April, 1957, officially closed on the 2nd of April, 2024, after nearly seven decades of operation. The casino, steeped in history and synonymous with the glamour and allure of 1950s Las Vegas, is set to be replaced by a modern development project. The demolition is expected to pave the way for a new baseball stadium, which will serve as the future home of the Oakland Athletics. A farewell filled with nostalgia In a city where the past often gives way to the future with little fanfare, the news of the Tropicana's impending demolition has sparked a wave of nostalgia among longtime residents and Las Vegas devotees. Until today, many believed that Bally's Corporation, the current owner of the property, would keep the demolition date under wraps to prevent large crowds from gathering to witness the event. However, local media outlets simultaneously broke the news, revealing that Bally's has instead chosen to turn the occasion into a public celebration. On the evening of the 8th of October, Bally's will host a commemorative event featuring a fireworks and drone show. The event, designed to honor the Tropicana's legacy, will culminate in the much-anticipated implosion at 2:30 am on October 9. The demolition itself will be conducted by Controlled Demolition Inc., a Phoenix, Maryland-based company renowned for bringing down several other iconic Vegas landmarks, including the Dunes, the Sands, the Stardust, and the Riviera. The road ahead: new developments and skepticism Bally's has stated that the demolition is necessary to make way for a new baseball stadium that will occupy nine of the Tropicana's 35-acre site. The stadium, which is expected to cost $1.5 billion and take three years to complete, will be part of a broader redevelopment plan that also includes a new casino resort on the remaining acreage. But until the stadium is ready, the Oakland Athletics are expected to spend three years playing in Sacramento. However, not everyone in Las Vegas is convinced that the ambitious project will come to fruition. Skepticism is heavy among industry insiders who have expressed doubts about the feasibility of the proposed developments. Take note that before any construction can begin, Bally's and the Athletics must secure approvals from both the Las Vegas Stadium Authority and Clark County for three critical agreements related to development, leasing, and non-relocation. While a fourth agreement concerning community benefits has already been approved, the remaining approvals are still pending, and the deadline is fast approaching. The end of an era Meanwhile, as the city prepares for the Tropicana's final bow, many are reflecting on the casino's storied past. The Tropicana was more than just a casino - it was a symbol of an era when Las Vegas was a playground for the rich and famous, a place where the Rat Pack ruled and the Mafia had a firm grip on the city's operations. The impending demolition of the Tropicana is a poignant reminder that Las Vegas is a city that constantly reinvents itself, often at the expense of its own history. The October 9 implosion will mark the end of one chapter in Las Vegas history and the beginning of another. While the Tropicana may soon be gone, its legacy will live on in the memories of those who remember the golden age of Las Vegas and the glamorous, albeit sometimes gritty, world that the Tropicana represented.

DraftKing has unveiled its latest offering: Electric Poker, exclusively for Michigan online casino players. Electric Poker is designed with a unique twist on standard poker, where players can compete against each other head to head in a no-limit Hold'em game instead of competing against the house, promising more fast-paced excitement. In a wise move to solidify its presence in Michigan's online poker market, DraftKings Casino has introduced an innovative game, Electric Poker, exclusively for its Michigan players. The game, which has debuted in the DraftKings Michigan online casino lobby, offers a unique twist on conventional casino games, aiming to captivate the state's poker enthusiasts. Electric Poker - a unique twist on traditional poker Unlike traditional online poker or other casino offerings where players compete against the house, Electric Poker allows registered members to face off in a no-limit Hold 'em tournament. This peer-to-peer competitive format sets it apart from other games available on the platform, giving players an even more dynamic and engaging experience. Electric Poker is a fast-paced variation of the classic 3-handed No-Limit Texas Hold 'em poker game, known for its swift gameplay and high-stakes potential. Players are drawn in by the attraction of a notable 10,000x prize, which represents the maximum win in a winner-take-all competition. Additionally, other prize multipliers include substantial 100x as well as 1,000x payouts, with 5x plus 10x multipliers designated for the tournament's runner-up. These enticing rewards are designed to enhance the competitive nature of the game, making every hand a potential winner. Fast-paced and action-packed The tournament format is structured to be brief, often lasting just a few minutes, which adds to the game's appeal for those seeking quick, adrenaline-fueled sessions. With low buy-ins of only $1, $5, $10, and $25, DraftKings is clearly targeting casual players who want to experience the thrill of poker without a significant financial commitment. This approach is in line with the operator’s broader strategy to make online gaming accessible to a wider audience. In order to participate in Electric Poker, players in Michigan must update their DraftKings Casino app to its latest version. This requirement ensures that all users have access to the most up-to-date features and security measures, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the game. The poker scene in Michigan: alive and thriving Michigan's online poker scene is already competitive, with established platforms like PokerStars, BetMGM, and WSOP catering to the state's poker players since 2021. However, Electric Poker's availability directly through the DraftKings Michigan app gives it a distinct edge over its competitors, which typically require players to download separate apps just for poker. This seamless integration could be a game-changer, as it offers players easy access to poker alongside other popular casino games, all within a single platform. Another noteworthy aspect of Michigan's online poker market is the player pooling allowed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board with other states like New Jersey and Nevada. However, at the time of Electric Poker's launch, the game is only available to Michigan players, meaning it does not yet benefit from cross-state player pooling. This exclusivity could either limit or enhance its appeal, depending on how DraftKings decides to expand the game in the future. DraftKings Casino's entrance into the online poker space in Michigan comes at a time when the operator is already a formidable player in the state's iGaming market. As the third-best operator in MI by revenue, DraftKings recently joined an elite group of operators surpassing the $1 billion milestone in lifetime revenue. The introduction of Electric Poker proves DraftKings' commitment to enhancing its gaming portfolio and expanding its reach within the online poker community, which is ever-growing in the Great Lakes State.