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Artificial intelligence leaders, startup founders and corporate executives gathered Tuesday at The Clubs of Stonebridge Ranch as McKinney positioned itself as a growing hub for innovation and emerging technology. The Batch 5 Expo, hosted by Plug and Play McKinney, the McKinney Economic Development Corporation, NTT DATA and the Sports, Entertainment and Innovation Conference, featured startup pitches and discussions focused on AI-driven business growth and the expanding role of artificial intelligence across industries. The full-day event explored enterprise AI, travel, hospitality and emerging technologies through keynotes, fireside chats and live pitch sessions designed to connect founders with investors and strategic partners.

Fewer people are flocking to Sin City, and many on social media claim America’s gambling capital is empty. But, that’s not the whole story. Tourism is down so far this year in Vegas, with total visitor volume so far in 2025 declining 8% compared to 2024, as international travelers are increasingly avoiding the U.S., and domestic travelers grow anxious over the state of the economy.

For decades, Las Vegas was considered a destination of bargains galore, offering 99-cent shrimp cocktails, $10 steak dinners and shows that cost no more than the price of a drink. But those days are long gone. Instead, think $9 cups of coffee, $100-a-person buffet spreads and a movie ticket that can set you back a whopping $279.

Casino management system provider Table Trac on Wednesday announced a multi-year financial commitment to the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý. The contribution is part of Table Trac’s commitment to fostering opportunity and development for under-served Native American communities.

The ÐÔÊӽ紫ý William F. Harrah College of Hospitality has received a $1 million philanthropic gift from Marco Benvenuti, founder of Duetto, to establish the Marco Benvenuti Excellence Endowment. The gift represents the culmination of years of support from the local entrepreneur and 2002 graduate.