Gambling in the USA

Hard Rock International Unveils Star-Studded Cast In Big Game Commercial

Published

6 years ago

January 31, 2020

Jennifer Lopez stars, cameos from DJ Khaled, Alex Rodriguez, Pitbull, and Steven Van Zandt in “The Hype,” directed by Michael Bay

Ahead of its primetime premiere, Hard Rock International reveals an all-star celebrity line-up, featured in the Michael Bay production titled, “The Hype.” The first Big Game commercial for both the brand and South Florida-based filmmaker, “The Hype” follows global superstar Jennifer Lopez on a thrilling pursuit through the world’s first Guitar Hotel® at the newly expanded Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, encountering a few familiar faces along the way.

Hard Rock International will debut its first Big Game commercial at the end of the first half of the event broadcast on February 2, 2020, which takes place at the state-of-the-art Hard Rock Stadium in South Florida.

“The Hard Rock brand has celebrated and archived iconography and memorabilia that is synonymous with the best of music and entertainment,” expressed megastar Jennifer Lopez. “I hope this fun, action-packed spot filmed at The Hard Rock’s Guitar Hotel & Casino will continue to add to that tradition.”

Hard Rock tapped filmmaker Michael Bay to create a highly visual, fast action commercial that will leave a lasting impression on audiences. Bay’s repertoire – with film credits including, “Armageddon,” the “Transformers” series, and “Bad Boys” – name recognition and deep roots in South Florida make him the ideal fit for this powerful collaboration.

Joining Jennifer Lopez in the spot are GRAMMY® Award winning artist and producer DJ Khaled, who just announced a residency with Hard Rock International; GRAMMY® Award winner Pitbull; former Major League Baseball All-Star Alex Rodriguez; and singer-songwriter/actor Steven Van Zandt.

“The Big Game is a global sporting event that incorporates music and entertainment, two cornerstones of the Hard Rock brand,” said Jim Allen, chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International. “As one of the most recognizable brands in the world, this is the perfect platform for Hard Rock to collaborate with immensely talented star power, including Michael Bay, one of the world’s greatest producers and directors. We’re confident that ‘The Hype’ will captivate millions of viewers.”

In conjunction with the spot, Hard Rock’s “Live Like a Legend” $2 Million Giveaway will also be launching on hardrock.com. Details on how to enter will be announced in the upcoming days.

Since the brand’s inception in 1971, Hard Rock has been synonymous with music and entertainment, as evidenced by 35,000 live shows annually across the portfolio, celebrating contemporary, emerging and legendary artists worldwide. This is also displayed in Hard Rock’s curated music memorabilia, which includes the world’s most valuable collection of more than 83,000 music items and pop-culture artifacts. Along with unique memorabilia adorning the walls, every property offers stylish design, unparalleled service and a unique vibe. With 31 hotels and 12 casinos currently operating around the globe (and exploration of more than 17 property deals in the pipeline), in addition to 251 iconic Hard Rock Cafes, Hard Rock is recognized as a world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand, offering guests an immersive music experience relevant to all generations.

For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos around the globe, visit hardrock.com.

Andrea Mata

Teamsters at Park MGM Unanimously Ratify Strong First Contract

Published

1 day ago

April 2, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

teamsters-at-park-mgm-unanimously-ratify-strong-first-contract

Front desk workers at Park MGM, represented by Teamsters Local 986, have unanimously ratified a strong first collective bargaining agreement. The two-year contract protects and rewards 82 workers, delivering higher wages, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections.

The bargaining unit includes front desk clerks, head cashiers, rooms controllers, lobby ambassadors, and guest service representatives. They play a critical role in delivering a seamless and welcoming guest experience from check-in to check-out.

“Organizing with Local 986 was an easy choice that led to overwhelmingly positive results. This contract allows me to provide a better future for myself and my family. I’m very grateful for all the support throughout this process,” said Andrea Mata, a front desk clerk and proud member of Local 986.

Under the new agreement, workers will receive a 10% wage increase, improved benefits, and an enhanced pension plan. Workers will now have access to the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan that reduces their deductibles by lowering co-pays and out-of-pocket costs.

“This agreement shows what’s possible when workers come together and organize. Strong contracts are built on solidarity, and this victory delivers real improvements that raise standards across the industry,” said Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division.

“These members showed strength and determination from day one and it paid off. Winning a first contract like this is a big milestone that delivers immediate improvements while building lasting power for the future,” said Tim Vera, President of Local 986.

The post Teamsters at Park MGM Unanimously Ratify Strong First Contract appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Conferences

Digicode to Showcase Technology Solutions at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention 2026

Published

3 days ago

March 31, 2026

Wladimir P.

digicode-to-showcase-technology-solutions-at-the-indian-gaming-tradeshow-&-convention-2026

Digicode announced its participation in the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention 2026, taking place March 30 – April 2, 2026, at the San Diego Convention Center. The event is recognized as the largest gathering dedicated to the tribal gaming industry, bringing together tribal leaders, casino executives, regulators, and technology providers to explore the latest developments shaping the sector.

Organized by the Indian Gaming Association, the annual convention serves as a key platform for discussing innovation, regulatory developments, and strategic opportunities across both land-based and digital gaming ecosystems.

“At a time when tribal gaming organizations are increasingly exploring digital transformation and operational modernization, the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention provides an important forum for collaboration,” said Elkhan Shabanov. “We look forward to connecting with industry leaders and sharing how modular technology architectures can help operators scale efficiently, improve operational control, and build platforms designed for long-term growth.”

During the event, Digicode will highlight its Diger Suite, a modular ecosystem of gaming technology solutions designed to help operators modernize infrastructure and reduce reliance on legacy systems. The platform enables gaming organizations to implement flexible, scalable technology stacks that support both current operations and future expansion.

Key solutions within the Diger Suite include:

DigerRGS – A next-generation gaming platform designed for high-throughput performance and full intellectual property ownership.
DigerPAM – A cross-market-ready player account management system that supports scalable user management and regulatory compliance.
DigerPay – A PSP-agnostic payment gateway supporting more than 200 payment methods with integrated real-time fraud protection.
DigerClick – A fully owned affiliate management platform offering customizable tools, campaign management, and performance analytics.
DigerCompanion – An AI-driven assistant designed to support multilingual player engagement, responsible gaming initiatives, and automated compliance workflows.

Digicode experts attending the convention will also share practical insights into how gaming operators can strengthen their technology infrastructure, streamline payment operations, automate player support processes, and maintain greater control over their digital platforms as the industry continues to evolve.

By participating in the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention 2026, Digicode aims to expand its engagement with tribal gaming organizations and technology partners and contribute expertise in platform engineering, payments infrastructure, and AI-driven operational tools.

The post Digicode to Showcase Technology Solutions at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Gambling in the USA

RubyPlay expands US footprint with West Virginia launch

Published

4 days ago

March 30, 2026

Wladimir P.

rubyplay-expands-us-footprint-with-west-virginia-launch

RubyPlay, a studio-driven content ecosystem, has further strengthened its position in the regulated US iGaming market with its official launch in West Virginia, marking its third state entry.

The expansion brings RubyPlay’s distinctive portfolio of premium titles to the Mountain State, giving leading US operators access to high-performing games such as Vegas No Limit Wins SE, Mad Hit® Diamonds, and Mad Hit® Devil.

Operators in West Virginia will benefit from RubyPlay’s flexible content platform, built on shared technology, infrastructure, and distribution capabilities designed to meet individual partner requirements.

At the core of the offering is RubyPlay’s studio-based ecosystem, which includes market-specific studios like xSlots. These studios deliver localised content, bespoke game development, and faster time to market, helping operators create more tailored player experiences.

The move continues RubyPlay’s steady expansion across the US, following successful entries into New Jersey and Delaware. As the company builds momentum in regulated markets, the US remains a central pillar of its growth strategy, with plans to enter Pennsylvania in the near future.

“Our launch in West Virginia reflects RubyPlay’s ongoing commitment to expanding across regulated US markets,” said Dima Reiderman, Chief Commercial Officer at RubyPlay.
“Each new state allows us to strengthen our commercial presence while building valuable partnerships with leading operators.

“Through our studio-driven model, we enable operators to deliver content that aligns closely with their strategy and audience, creating more relevant and differentiated player experiences.”

The post RubyPlay expands US footprint with West Virginia launch appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.