Global Gaming Expo begins next week

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- Casino execs and gaming professionals will be taking a look at the newest trends in the industry when the Global Gaming Expo hits the Las Vegas Convention Center next week.

The Global Gaming Expo, run by the American Gaming Association, is the leading gaming trade show and conference for the international gaming entertainment community. More than 30,000 people are expected to attend this year's event.

The conference will feature 600-plus exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services, including slot technology, table games, food and beverages, and casino design.

Chefs Kerry Simon, owner of Simon at Palms Place, and Rao's chef Carla Pellegrino, along with several others, will show off their skills at the Culinary Demonstration Stage.

Other food and beverage events will include cocktail demonstrations, chef autographing sessions and the Ultra Lounge Uniform Fashion Show, where Vegas hotels and casinos will parade their latest in cocktail waitress fashion for the upcoming year.

Along with hundreds of vendors, more than 100 conference sessions will be available on topics like ethics in gaming to how to handle celebrity appearances.

Organizers said parts of this year's conference will focus on the economic downturn and the long-term effects on the gaming industry.

Specific sessions also will address perspectives on how the industry will be affected by the new presidential administration.