Nevada casino win down nearly 4 percent in February

Nevada casino win down nearly 4 percent in February: "There was no leap in the win for Nevada casinos in February despite an extra Leap Year day in the month and other seemingly positive factors. The clubs won $1.01 billion, down nearly 4 percent compared with the same month a year earlier.

The slump occurred despite a 29th day for the month, the reopening of a major Las Vegas resort that had been closed by a fire, and tourist draws including Superbowl and Chinese New Year activities and a three-day President's Day holiday.

'We were disappointed but we can't say it was unexpected,' Gaming Control Board analyst Frank Streshley said in releasing the February win report on Wednesday. 'It's definitely a reflection of the soft economy and people tightening up their spending habits.'"

MGM Mirage layoffs blamed on penny-pinching vacationers

MGM Mirage layoffs blamed on penny-pinching vacationers: "LAS VEGAS -- MGM Mirage Inc., the largest casino operator on the Las Vegas Strip, told more than 400 middle management employees they would be terminated immediately in a cost-saving move, the company said."