Antonio “Tony” Alamo Sr., a Cuban immigrant who rose from humble beginnings to become a prominent figure in the Las Vegas casino industry, passed away on October 2 at the age of 84. Surrounded by family, Alamo left a legacy that touched both the gaming world and the broader community, especially through his commitment to education and youth empowerment.
Alamo’s journey in the gaming industry began in Reno, Nevada. Starting as a janitor and later working in the coin room at Harrah’s, he quickly learned the intricacies of table games like craps and blackjack. His dedication and skill facilitated his climb through the ranks. By 1974, he had moved to Las Vegas with his family and joined Circus Circus Hotel & Casino, where he eventually became president. His leadership was instrumental during a transformative period for the casino.
Subsequently, Alamo held significant roles at major properties such as the MGM Grand Las Vegas and Mandalay Resort Group. He was a driving force behind the development of notable projects like the MGM Grand and the Monte Carlo, now known as Park MGM. After a distinguished career, he retired in 2005 as a senior executive at Mandalay Resort Group.
His son, Tony Alamo Jr., who also made his mark by leading the Nevada Gaming Commission, highlighted his father’s remarkable ascendancy from an immigrant worker to a leading executive as a testament to his perseverance and resilience. The public is invited to pay their respects to the late casino pioneer at a service scheduled in Las Vegas on October 18.
Beyond his professional achievements, Alamo was deeply committed to education and community service. A school in Clark County is named in his honor, reflecting his dedication to student success. Alamo contributed to scholarships at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and was an active speaker at the Hispanic Youth Leadership Conference, where he encouraged youth to pursue higher education.
Jhone Ebert, Superintendent of the Clark County School District, described Alamo as a champion of education, freedom, and integrity. She emphasized that his influence endures through the everyday activities at the school bearing his name, which has been a pillar for local youth for over two decades.
Colleagues remember Alamo not only as an influential figure in shaping modern Las Vegas casinos but also as a generous benefactor to the community. His dual legacy as a seasoned casino executive and a fervent supporter of young people ensures his lasting impact on the city. As the community prepares to honor his contributions at the memorial service, many reflect on how his work in both the gaming industry and community development created a richer, more inclusive Las Vegas.
Yet, some voices in the industry suggest that while Alamo’s leadership was pioneering, the casino world has seen significant changes since his retirement. The evolution of digital gaming and the rise of online casinos present new challenges and opportunities that differ from Alamo’s era. Nonetheless, his foundational work in the physical casino domain continues to be acknowledged as crucial to the industry’s growth.
While the future of gaming may look different, Alamo’s story remains a powerful reminder of the potential for individual impact in shaping an industry and supporting a community. His life’s work exemplifies how dedication and vision can lead to success and positive change, leaving a model for future generations to follow. As Las Vegas celebrates his life, it is clear that Tony Alamo Sr.’s contributions will not be forgotten, echoing through the halls of casinos and classrooms alike.
David Garato is a luminary in gaming journalism, renowned for peeling back the curtain on the gaming world with his witty and insightful commentary. A decade into weaving stories from the pixelated edges of indie games to the expansive universes of AAA titles, David’s work is a thrilling blend of analysis and adventure. When not writing, he’s live-streaming, sharing his gaming exploits with an engaged and growing audience. David doesn’t just write about games; he lives them, making him a trusted guide in the gaming community.
