December 2008 Archives

The unprecedented negative impacts of the economy dominate the 2009 edition of the Top 21 Trends in Gaming, an annual list compiled by Spectrum Gaming Group.

Spectrum, an independent research and professional services firm, has for the fifth year compiled this list, which addresses ongoing changes in development, operations, consumer behavior, markets, politics, technology and other aspects concerning the casino industry worldwide.

Eight of the 21 trends, as identified by Spectrum's global staff of experts in numerous disciplines, concern the unprecedented economic downturn in which casinos are now operating. With economic experts predicting that meaningful recovery will not begin until at least 2010, gaming operators and their stakeholders are faced with difficult conditions and decisions.

New Jersey-based Spectrum (www.spectrumgaming.com) tracks these and other trends in its award-winning newsletter, Gaming Industry Observer (www.gamingobserver.com).

Following are the Top 21 Trends in Gaming for 2009, listed alphabetically:

Advancements in technology that impact revenues and cut costs will continue to be attractive to operators even in an economic downturn.
Continued conversion of racetracks to racinos, as well as non-gaming expansions to existing racinos.
Continued elimination of jobs, both through cuts and attrition.
Continued moratorium on development of big-box gaming resorts due to economic downturn.
Convenience-based gaming continues to achieve better year-over-year results than destination-based gaming.
Corporate and property debt restructuring in wake of declining revenues.
Eastern Europe countries will increase their efforts to meet EU regulations, including smoking ban.
Gaming companies increase efforts to export their brands globally.
Gaming equipment manufacturers continue to invest in games that appeal to a younger demographic, including lotteries, bingo and server-based technology.
Increased legislative acceptance of allowing the deduction of issued electronic promotional gaming credits from the gross revenue tax/fee calculation.
Increased use of electronic games, including the emergence of scalable electronic table games in which players at different locations on the floor wager on a single outcome.
Increasing alliance between commercial gaming operators and outside investors, as well as between commercial and tribal operators.
Internet gambling in USA will be a hot federal issue for the new administration and Congress; gaming companies will fund lobbying efforts on both sides.
Major gaming operators commence deleveraging by selling off properties to emerging operators.
More pronounced shift in market share among suppliers as operators attempt to shift away from IGT participation games.
Native American tribal gaming revenue estimates remain on track to surpass US commercial gaming totals.
Prices for hotel rooms, shows and food and beverage will return to lower levels at large gaming resorts as operators need to fill their properties.
Slow but continual advancement toward server-based gaming, as operators remain skeptical as to the potential financial returns on investment.
States consider expanding or legalizing casino-style gaming to help fill state budget gaps.
Support from China to ease visa restrictions, increasing flow of visitors into Macau.
Uncertainty in various European countries concerning regulation, thus increasing cases being referred to the European Court of Justice.

 
 
SOURCE Spectrum Gaming Group

The last ticket for the Pennsylvania Lottery's Jan. 3 Millionaire Raffle was sold today at 10:21:34 a.m. at McCunes News, 606 Central Avenue in Johnstown, Cambria County.

Sales of Millionaire Raffle tickets began on Oct. 27 and were to continue until 5 p.m. on Jan. 3, or until all 500,000 tickets were sold.

The winning raffle ticket numbers will be randomly selected at 7 p.m. on Jan. 3 when the Lottery's live drawing show will televise the selection of the four $1 million raffle ticket numbers and the four $100,000 raffle ticket numbers.

The selection of the remaining 5,992 winning ticket numbers will not be televised live due to time constraints.

A complete list of all 6,000 winning raffle ticket numbers will be available the following day on the Lottery's Web site, www.palottery.com, and at Lottery retail locations.

To be considered a winning ticket, the eight-digit number printed on a Millionaire Raffle ticket must match the eight-digit combination selected in the drawing, in the exact sequence in which it was selected.

Lottery officials remind Millionaire Raffle players to sign the back of each ticket and keep tickets in a safe place until the Jan. 3 drawing.

Each of the game's $20 tickets offers a 1-in-125,000 chance of winning $1 million -- the best odds ever offered by the Pennsylvania Lottery for winning a million dollars. The Jan. 3 raffle drawing will award four top prizes of $1 million cash; four $100,000 cash prizes; 100 prizes of $1,000 cash; and 5,892 prizes of $100 cash. A total of 6,000 prizes worth $5,089,200 will be awarded.

Odds of winning a $100,000 prize are 1-in-125,000; odds of winning a $1,000 prize are 1-in-5,000; and the odds of winning $100 are 1-in-85. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1-in-83.

About the Pennsylvania Lottery: The Pennsylvania Lottery remains the only state lottery that designates all proceeds to programs that benefit older residents. Since its inception 36 years ago, the Pennsylvania Lottery has contributed more than $18.3 billion to programs that include property tax and rent rebates; free and reduced-fare transit; the low-cost prescription drug programs PACE and PACENET; long-term care services; and the 52 Area Agencies on Aging, including more than 600 full- and part-time senior centers throughout the state. The Pennsylvania Lottery reminds its players to play responsibly. Players must be 18 or older.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Lottery, visit www.palottery.com.

 
 
SOURCE Pennsylvania Lottery
 

 
Unique Eatery Features "From Scratch Cooking

Greektown Casino-Hotel at 11 a.m. Friday will take another major step toward completing its permanent casino complex with the opening of a new 275-seat International Buffet.

This unique eatery with multiple, multicultural food stations features "from scratch cooking," meaning all dishes are made from fresh ingredients and do not come pre-made from vendors.

"The International Buffet gives Greektown Casino-Hotel guests a culinary tour of the world with dishes made only from fresh ingredients offered at a moderate price point," said Bill Williams, Vice President of Guest Services of Greektown Casino-Hotel. "Because the International Buffet dishes are made from scratch, our guests will find food selections with a home-cooked, fresh taste."

Greektown Casino-Hotel's International Buffet is priced at $18.95 per-person and will be open 11 a.m. to midnight, Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

The International Buffet features nine different stations with culinary creations from around the globe, including:

-- Asian Station: Shrimp Egg Rolls, Thai Sates, Mandarin Crisp Duck, Sizzle Fried Szechuan Beef, Udon Noodles with Chicken, Gyoza Dumplings, Won Ton Soup, Egg Drop Soup, Sticky Rice, Egg Foo Yong and Crispy Won Ton.

-- Mexican Station: Warm tacos stuffed with Carnita-Style Pork, a Salsa Bar, Chicken Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, and Oaxacan Smashed Beans.

-- American Station: Country Pork Chops with Baked Apples, Southern Fried Chicken, Great Lakes Baked Fish, Meatloaf and Gravy, Carved Smoked Turkey, Carved Roast Beef, Carved Honey Glazed Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Garden Vegetables, Macaroni and Cheese, and Basmati Rice with Toasted Vermicelli.

-- Soup and Bread Station: Chicken Noodle Soup, Tortilla Soup, assorted artisanal bread, flavored butter, unsalted butter, and crackers.

-- Salad Station: Whole Fruit, House Greens, Peel and Eat Shrimp, Panzanella Bread Salad, Chinese Chicken Salad with Rice Sticks, Cheese Platter, Caprese Platter, and Grilled Vegetable Platter.

-- Pizza Station: Greek, Pepperoni, Roast Vegetable, and Hawaiian.

-- Italian Station: Manzo Caprese Fettuccini, Pollo Ala Francesa, Vitello Ala Parmigiana, and Lasagnette Pomodori.

-- Greek Station: Rotisserie Lemon Chicken, Moussaka, Arnaki (Grilled Lamb Chops), and Gharithes Me Feta (Baked Shrimp with Spinach and Feta).

-- Dessert Station: Soft serve ice cream, made to order crepes with fresh fruit fillings, and assorted small plate desserts.

The International Buffet is the latest phase of the Greektown Casino-Hotel's permanent complex to open this year.

In 2008, Greektown Casino-Hotel has also opened a new 10,000-square-foot High Limit Gaming Area and lounge; a contemporary ultra lounge called Eclipz; and 25,000 square feet of new gaming space. The casino has a total of 100,000 square feet of gaming space.

Greektown Casino-Hotel also recently began accepting room reservations and event bookings for its 400-room hotel, which will open in February 2009. For reservations and group events, call 877-GCH-5554.

Greektown Casino-Hotel features more than 80 table games and 3,000 slot machines.

Located at 555 E. Lafayette Avenue in Detroit's Greektown Entertainment District, Greektown Casino-Hotel opened on Nov. 10, 2000. Readers of The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press have voted Greektown Casino-Hotel Michigan's and Detroit's "Best Casino" numerous times.

In addition to being named "Best Casino" by readers of The News and Free Press, Greektown Casino-Hotel also placed first in other categories in The News' reader survey, including "Best Slots," "Best Wait Staff Outfits," "Best Craps Tables," "Best Blackjack Tables," "Best High Rollers Area," "Best Casino Restaurant," and "Best Casino Entertainment."

 
 
SOURCE Greektown Casino-Hotel
 
 
 

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of fourteen and one-half cents ($0.145) per share, payable on January 19, 2009 to shareholders of record on January 5, 2009.

International Game Technology (www.IGT.com) is a global company specializing in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and sales of computerized gaming machines and systems products.

 
SOURCE International Game Technology
 

The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM) announced today that its Board of Directors has approved the membership applications of six new companies, bringing the trade group comprised of the world's leading gaming suppliers to a total of 67 members.

    The new AGEM members:

    -- AP-ID Inc., based in Green Bay, Wis., is a leader in identification
       validation technology for casino resorts.
    -- DynaGraphic Printing, based in Reno, Nev., offers quality conventional
       printing services enhanced with cross-media capabilities.
    -- Incredible Technologies, based in Arlington Heights, Ill., is a
       designer and manufacturer of top quality Class III gaming machines.
    -- Masterpiece Advertising, based in Atlantic City, N.J., is a
       full-service advertising, marketing and public relations agency.
    -- Regulatory Management Counselors, based in East Lansing, Mich., is a
       law firm that specializes in assisting gaming suppliers and financial
       institutions.
    -- Strategy9, based in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, provides marketing
       automation software and direct mail services to the casino industry.

AGEM is an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of electronic gaming devices, systems, table games, key components and support products and services for the gaming industry. AGEM works to further the interests of gaming equipment suppliers throughout the world. Through political action, trade show partnerships, information dissemination and good corporate citizenship, the members of AGEM work together to create benefits for every company within the organization. Together, AGEM has assisted regulatory commissions and participated in the legislative process to solve problems and create a business environment where AGEM members can prosper while providing a strong level of support to education and responsible gaming initiatives. For more information, visit http://www.AGEM.org.

The current AGEM membership roster, 67 strong, is a who's who of the supplier segment of the global gaming industry: AGEM Gold Members: Aristocrat Technologies, Aruze Gaming America, Austrian Gaming Industries, Bally Technologies, GTECH/Atronic/Spielo, International Game Technology (IGT), Konami Gaming and WMS Gaming. AGEM Silver Members: AC Coin & Slot, Action Gaming, Casino Technology, Interblock USA, JCM Global, MEI, Multimedia Games, Octavian International, Progressive Gaming International, Shuffle Master, Suzo-Happ Group, TCSJohnHuxley and Wells-Gardner Electronics. AGEM Bronze Members: Ainsworth Game Technology, Cadillac Jack, CashCode, Diamond Game, Elixir Gaming Technologies, GameTech International, Incredible Technologies, Las Vegas Gaming Inc. (LVGI), MCA Processing, Modern Gaming, Rocket Gaming Systems and Summit Gaming. AGEM Associate Members: AP-ID, DynaGraphic Printing, Elite Casino Products, Esterline Advanced Input Systems, FutureLogic, Gaming Partners International, Gary Platt Manufacturing, Global Cash Access, Grand Products, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, IDX, Intel, IPS, James Industries, Kreller Group, KSK, Masterpiece Advertising, MC2, Mikohn Signs and Graphics, Money Controls, Nanoptix, PDQ Printing, Proforma GPS, Regulatory Management Counselors, Sanmina-SCI, Strategy9, Tgraphics/Outpost Productions, The Bright Group, 3M Touch Systems, TMX, TransAct Technologies, Wrex Products and Young Electric Sign Company (YESCO).

     Media contacts: Marcus Prater
     AGEM Executive Director
     (702) 812-6932
     AGEM.org@cox.net

 
 
SOURCE Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers
 

Officials at the M Resort, Spa and Casino, the newest casino resort scheduled to open March 2009 on South Las Vegas Boulevard, have announced that they will begin accepting room reservations as of today.

The resort will offer 390 luxurious and exceptionally appointed guest rooms and suites ranging from 550 to 2,400 square feet. The guest rooms and suites are richly designed and appointed, in keeping with the needs of the professional and leisure traveler. The bed(s) feature a pillow-top mattress and fine linens. Each room offers a living space that includes high-technology amenities such as a Bose(R) Wave(R) sound system, iPod(R) docking station and 42" HD LCD flat screen television. The spa-like bathrooms offer guests a marble vanity with double sinks, inlaid mirror television and separate bathtub and shower. All resort rooms and suites feature automatic lighting controls for energy efficiency. Guests may book online at www.theMresort.com or by calling toll free at 1-877-673-7678.

"The M Resort is all about service and providing real value to our guests. The rooms are generously proportioned and provide a level of accommodations and amenities that guests might expect from some of the major resort casinos on the Strip," said Chairman and CEO Anthony A. Marnell III.

Uniquely situated 400 feet higher in elevation than the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort offers breathtaking views from every guest room and suite. Floor to ceiling windows showcase the Strip views and the surrounding mountain range, which may also be seen from the spa bathroom. A fusion of modern architecture and classic glamour, the guest rooms and suites offer a luxurious retreat with custom furnishings and decor which include leather seating, marble fixtures and Italian black walnut furniture.

The resort also offers guests a full array of amenities such as a world-class spa, salon and fitness center, with 16 treatment rooms, sauna, steam and Jacuzzi wet areas, several unique to the market signature dining experiences and destination bars including a modern wine cellar and tasting room. The M Resort incorporates entertainment throughout such as the 100,000 square foot Villaggio Del Sole Entertainment Piazza for top concert events along with several indoor venues including the Ravello and Milan Showrooms for more intimate performances. It will also feature advanced gaming products and the iMagine Rewards Club, set to be the most innovative players club in town.

ABOUT M RESORT, SPA AND CASINO

M Resort, Spa and Casino is located on over 90 acres at the southeast corner of St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard. Situated higher in elevation than other resort-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort will provide optimal views of the world-famous Las Vegas skyline from its guest rooms, suites, conference center and restaurants. The resort will feature 390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 square feet of gaming and more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and conference space in addition to a variety of luxury amenities including a partnership with Taubman Centers, Inc. to bring up to one million square feet of retail. The resort will also feature a 14-screen digital movie entertainment complex, nine restaurants and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center that will provide local and out of town guests with an unrivaled South Strip experience. For more information, visit www.theMresort.com.

    MEDIA CONTACTS:
    Rina Foster/Riley Meredith
    Preferred Public Relations & Marketing
    702.254.5704
    rina@preferredpublicrelations.com
    riley@preferredpublicrelations.com

 
 
SOURCE M Resort, Spa and Casino
 

Award winning online bingo site, Paddy Power Bingo.com (http://bingo.paddypower.com/), has undergone a major revamp and now offers players an even more fun and exciting playing experience.

Since its launch in 2006 Paddy Power Bingo.com has become one of the UK's most popular online bingo sites and now pays out over GBP1million in cash prizes to bingo players each month. Paddy Power Bingo.com also boasts more cash prizes per player than any other online bingo site.

The re-launched website hosts a huge range of clever new features including an all new homepage, intuitive and simple to navigate menus, new account features including a reduced GBP5 minimum deposit and an all new news and community section.

From a design perspective the new look site has dispensed with the traditional Paddy Power green in favour of more "female-friendly" pink and yellow colour palette throughout.

Earlier this year Paddy Power Bingo.com took the prestigious Best New Comer award at this year's Bullet Business Bingo Awards, seeing off tough competitions from several blue-chip contenders.

Paddy Power said, "Our aim for Paddy Power Bingo.com since its original launch in 2006 was to offer players the friendliest and most fun online bingo experience. Our customers have given a unanimous thumbs up and hopefully this latest revamp will add even more enjoyment to the playing."

To celebrate the launch of the all new website, Paddy Power Bingo.com are running a Christmas promotion where they will be giving away four GBP1,000 Shopping Spree prizes during the month of December.

    For more information;

    Ken Robertson
    +353-1-4045915
    +353-87-8528718

 
 
SOURCE Paddy Power Plc
 

Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board approves petition to establish protocol that would allow owner Louis DeNaples to make cash infusion into property
 
 Mount Airy Casino Resort and Trustee Anthony F. Ceddia, Ph.D. today received approval of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board of a new protocol that will help facilitate the continued financial health and growth of property. The protocol will enable the casino resort to move forward with capital projects and provide additional liquidity by establishing a process that would allow Mount Airy Casino Resort Owner Louis DeNaples to provide the resort with funds for certain expenditures and capital projects if needed.

This effort to address potential liquidity concerns comes in the midst of a national economic downturn and "tight liquidity" in the banking and lending markets. In a report released this week, Fitch Ratings noted that these trends have impacted the entire gaming industry. Other gaming properties have the ability to rely on their corporate parent companies for cash infusions when needed, although -- as the Fitch analysis points out -- the liquidity of those parent companies is becoming an increasing concern within the industry. In contrast, Mount Airy Casino Resort, as an independent property, must rely on Owner Louis DeNaples to infuse cash and ease liquidity pressures.

The petition approved today by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board would establish a protocol by which Owner Louis DeNaples could infuse cash -- if needed -- into the property to meet its real estate tax and local share assessment obligations and enable the property to move forward with potential capital projects such as the refurbishment of the resort's golf course and construction of a swimming pool. Mr. DeNaples has indicated to the Trustee that he remains fully supportive of Mount Airy.

"Mount Airy Casino Resort is and remains a growing, viable business. This is a proactive effort to address possible liquidity concerns - concerns that are impacting the entire gaming industry," said Tony Ceddia, the Trustee of Mount Airy Casino Resort. "The protocol that was approved by the Board today simply provides Mount Airy Casino Resort with added financial flexibility in a difficult national economic situation. This access to capital will enable Mount Airy Casino Resort to address possible liquidity concerns now and in the future and allow the property to move forward with capital projects that will further enhance the property."

"We are continuing to experience strong growth in revenues - most notably a 31 percent increase in revenues or the month of November compared to a year ago," said Joe D'Amato, Chief Executive Officer of Mount Airy Casino Resort. "But there is room for further improvement. Capital projects, such as the addition of a swimming pool and the rehabilitation of the golf course, will help to fuel our continued growth."

The Fitch Ratings report detailed some of the financial challenges facing the gaming industry, including pressure on operating cash flow, current depressed debt prices, tight credit markets and limited refinancing options. Mount Airy Casino Resort is working to address all of these challenges by increasing its marketing efforts, engaging in ongoing negotiations with its lenders regarding an amendment to its credit facility, and improving liquidity through the approval of this new protocol. Any infusion of cash by Mr. DeNaples would provide funding while the negotiations with the lenders continue and any amended credit facility is reviewed for approval by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Dr. Ceddia emphasized that while Louis DeNaples remains supportive of Mount Airy Casino Resort, the protocol approved by the Gaming Control Board require that he has no control or input over what projects or funding needs are funded through the cash infusions he makes. Rather, the payments will be made to a separate, dedicated account controlled by the Trustee to pay out creditors, vendors, and contractors.

CEO D'Amato also emphasized that Mount Airy Casino Resort has been a good corporate citizen, employing about 950 people, 98 percent of whom reside in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and providing those employees with excellent benefits including healthcare coverage. Mount Airy Casino Resort was also recognized for having one of the most diverse workforces in the gaming industry in the Commonwealth. Mount Airy Casino Resort has also remained true to its commitment to the local economy by utilizing local vendors for its purchasing and service needs. In addition, the casino resort has also generated nearly $96 million in taxes to state, county, and local government since its opening on October 22, 2007.

About Mount Airy Casino Resort

The lakeside Mount Airy Casino Resort is located in the heart of the beautiful Pocono Mountains. The casino resort features a mix of more than 2,500 of the latest slot machines, including the newest themed video slots, electronic table games, as well as progressive jackpots. Dining options at the new resort include red Steakhouse, offering prime aged steaks and the freshest seafood; Le Sorelle Cucina, offering Italian delicacies; Betty's Diner, featuring All-American dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; and The Buffet at Mount Airy, featuring seven distinct stations.

Each room and suite in Mount Airy Casino Resort's luxury hotel was designed with the goal of obtaining a four-star rating, making them the highest quality rooms available in the Pocono Mountains. The casino resort's upscale Gypsies Lounge Nightclub, which offers a mix of live bands and other acts, has one of the best sound systems in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Spa at Mount Airy provides guests with a range of invigorating spa treatments, including facials, skin treatments, hair styling, personalized massages and more. Reservations can be made by calling 1-877-MT-AIRY-1.

 
 
SOURCE Mount Airy Casino Resort
 

Lev L. Dassin, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Mark J. Mershon, Assistant Director-in-Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"), announced that Anurag Dikshit -- a founder and former officer and director of PartyGaming PLC, an internet gambling business -- pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Jed S. Rakoff to charges that he used the wires to transmit in interstate and foreign commerce bets and wagering information. As alleged in the documents filed and statements made during Dikshit's plea allocution in Manhattan federal court, and as set forth in Dikshit's plea agreement with the Government:

From about 1997 through October 2006, PartyGaming PLC, a Gibraltar corporation, and its predecessor and affiliated corporate entities (collectively "PartyGaming"), operated an Internet gambling business which offered casino and poker games, among other games of chance, to customers who wished to gamble online. During that time a substantial majority of PartyGaming's online gambling customers -- who accounted for approximately 85% of PartyGaming's revenue in 2005 -- were located in the United States, including the Southern District of New York. Anurag Dikshit developed a proprietary software platform for PartyGaming and directed PartyGaming's computer operations from approximately 1998 through October 2006. From 1999 through October 2006, Dikshit was a principal shareholder of PartyGaming and, at various times, served as a PartyGaming corporate officer and director.

Dikshit pleaded guilty to one count of using the wires to transmit bets and wagering information in interstate commerce. Dikshit, 37, faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.

In addition, Dikshit admitted to forfeiture allegations requiring him to forfeit $300 million, and agreed with the Government to pay $100 million at the time of the signing of his plea agreement; another $100 million within 3 months of the date of his guilty plea; and the final $100 million prior to the defendant's sentencing or September 30, 2009, whichever is earlier. Dikshit has already paid the first $100 million installment of this forfeiture.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 16, 2010 before Judge Rakoff.

Mr. Dassin praised the investigative work of the FBI in this case.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan B. New, Arlo Devlin-Brown, and Sharon Cohen Levin are in charge of the prosecution.

 
 
SOURCE U.S. Department of Justice
 

Series Of Job Fairs Planned For January, February

On the heels of the nation's official "R-word" status and nightly news reports about stock plummets, plant closings, layoffs and the state's now record unemployment rate, there's great news coming out of Shelby County, Indiana. More than 350 new jobs are opening up soon at the closest casino to Indianapolis.

Indiana Live Casino is gearing up for a series of job fairs in January and February to fill these positions as it prepares to open its massive, 233,000-square-foot permanent facility adjacent to the Indiana Downs horse racing track in early 2009.

"What we have to offer is really a large variety of opportunities for everyone from career professionals and skilled workers to high-energy general employment seekers," said Indiana Live Casino general manager Mark Hemmerle. "With supervisory and line-level, high-paying positions becoming available as we transition from our temporary to permanent site, we're looking for talented individuals to join our family and experience the introduction of the best entertainment destination to the central Indiana region."

Since opening in its temporary 70,000-square-foot facility in June, Indiana Live Casino has employed more than 420 full- and part-time workers. Once the permanent facility opens, featuring even more casino floor space and dining and entertainment destinations including Maker's Mark Steakhouse, NASCAR Sports Grille, Live Market and two bars, the $195 million casino will employ more than 750 people.

"When you look at the state of the national and local economy now and the forecast of what is to come, I think this opportunity is a significant one for anyone looking ahead with the desire to secure employment during these unstable times," Hemmerle said. "We are excited to hire for these positions as we ramp up plans to open a new Indiana Live Casino and excited about our ability to contribute positively to the state's overall economy."

Altogether, the annual payroll at Indiana Live Casino, including salaries, wages and benefits, is estimated at more than $19 million a year once the permanent casino opens.

Positions that Indiana Live Casino will offer include ones in operations, marketing, food service, human resources, security, transportation, cashiers and engineering among many other fields. Job seekers must be age 21 or older to apply for employment at Indiana Live Casino. Indiana Live Casino is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Indiana Live Casino offers competitive wages; a comprehensive medical, vision and dental health benefits package; a 401k plan; and a dynamic work, fast-paced and customer-focused environment.

Those interested in pursuing employment at Indiana Live Casino should visit Indiana Live Casino online at http://www.indianalivecasino.com frequently as the site is updated daily with new opportunities. Times, dates and locations of the planned job fairs in January and February will be announced once plans have been finalized.

Already, Indiana Live Casino is having an impact on the Indiana economy. Since opening in June, the casino has paid nearly $20.2 million in wagering taxes to the state of Indiana. The casino is projected to generate more than $74 million in taxes during its first year of operation on gaming revenues and purse contributions, excluding income and wage, sales, property and business taxes, of which nearly $45 million will go directly to the state's Property Tax Reduction Trust Fund to benefit all Hoosier residents and an estimated $5 million will be administered to Shelby County cities and towns.

Just 20 minutes from downtown Indianapolis, Indiana Live Casino features more than 1,900 high-tech slot machines and electronic table games and an eatery catered by renowned chef Wolfgang Puck. Indiana Live Casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round. For more, visit http://www.indianalivecasino.com or the casino's blog at http://www.indianalivecasino.com/blog.

    CONTACT
    Duane Brodt
    Coles Marketing Communications
    duane.brodt@colesmarketing.com
ABOUT INDIANA LIVE CASINO

Indiana Live Casino (http://www.indianalivecasino.com) is owned by Indiana Downs LLC (http://www.indianadowns.com) and being developed and managed by Baltimore, Md.-based developer The Cordish Company (http://www.cordish.com). The Cordish Company's Gaming Operations are headed by CEO and partner Dennis Gomes.

 
 
SOURCE Indiana Live Casino
 

FLORIDA LOTTO(TM) and MEGA MONEY(TM) drawings are moving to 11:15 P.M.

The Florida Lottery announced that 12 television stations throughout the state will broadcast the winning numbers for POWERBALL(R), FLORIDA LOTTO(TM), MEGA MONEY(TM), FANTASY 5(R), PLAY 4(TM) and CASH 3(TM) drawings beginning Tuesday, January 6, 2009 - just in time for the first POWERBALL drawing in Florida on Wednesday, January 7, 2009. POWERBALL tickets go on sale January 4, 2009.

                           General Market Stations

               Jacksonville                      WJXX (ABC), WTLV (NBC)
               Miami/Ft. Lauderdale              WPLG (ABC)
               Orlando/Daytona Beach/Melbourne   WKMG (CBS)
               Tallahassee                       WTXL (ABC)
               Tampa/St. Petersburg              WTSP (CBS)
               Pensacola                         WJTC (UPN)
               Fort Myers                        WWSB (ABC)

                          Spanish-Language Stations

               Fort Myers                        WWDT (Telemundo)
               Miami/Ft. Lauderdale              WSCV (Telemundo)
               Orlando/Daytona Beach /Melbourne  WTMO (Telemundo)
               Tampa/St. Petersburg              WRMD (Telemundo)

Each carrier station will air the drawings, either live or within minutes of the live drawings, or display on-screen the winning numbers. Viewing times and coverage vary by station. Additional information will be available in January on the stations' Web sites, as well as the Florida Lottery's Web site at www.flalottery.com .

All Florida Lottery winning numbers will continue to post to the Lottery's Web site immediately following each draw. Additionally, players will continue to have 24-hour access to the drawings via Webcasts posted on the Web site. Plus, players can register online at www.flalottery.com to receive winning numbers and other Lottery information via e-mail or text messaging.

Beginning January 6, 2009, FLORIDA LOTTO and MEGA MONEY drawings will be held at a new time. Following is the new schedule of drawings:

               POWERBALL                     Wed. and Sat., 10:59 p.m. ET
               FLORIDA LOTTO                 Wed. and Sat., 11:15 p.m. ET
               MEGA MONEY                    Tues. and Fri., 11:15 p.m. ET
               FANTASY 5                     Daily, 11:15 p.m. ET
               PLAY 4                        Daily, 1:30 p.m. and 7:57 p.m. ET
               CASH 3                        Daily, 1:30 p.m. and 7:57 p.m. ET

Since 1988, the Florida Lottery has contributed more than $19 billion to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, benefiting our students and schools, as well as funding more than one million Bright Futures scholarships. By a two-to-one margin, Florida voters in 1986 approved a constitutional amendment authorizing the state to operate a lottery for the purpose of generating significant additional moneys for education.

                           When you play, we all win.
                      "$19 Billion for Florida's Students"

 
 
SOURCE Florida Lottery
 

Put the spotlight on fun at Spotlight 29 Casino, the Coachella Valley???s most exciting place to play. Spotlight 29 Casino is a business venture of the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. Turn it on at www.Spotlight29.com
 
Holiday shopping can be a drag -- the lines, the parking, the "what should we get everyone?" Now Spotlight 29 Casino helps you get out of line and on with your life with the perfect gift for everyone on your list: entertainment!

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050203/LATH047LOGO)

The best headliners are in the Spotlight Showroom, and discount tickets are available through December 24. Buy one concert, and get 10 percent off each ticket. Buy two concerts and get 15 percent off. Three concerts save you 20 percent, and four concerts save you 25 percent. Club 29 members receive 25 percent off all show tickets purchased now through December 24.

Upcoming events include Ramon Ayala (December 31), Natalie Cole (January 10), Country Rat Pack (January 24), Sylvia Browne (January 31), Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. (February 14) and Connie Francis (February 28). A full schedule is available at spotlight29.net.

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Contact:

Paul Speirs, Steinbeck Communications

(702) 413-4278, paulspeirs@cox.net

 
 
SOURCE Spotlight 29 Casino
 

This Holiday Season, Send a Responsible Message to Minors

 It's the season for gift giving for Bay Staters of all ages. But the Massachusetts State Lottery and Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling are urging parents and other adults to refrain from giving lottery products as holiday gifts to minors.

Research suggests that 70 to 80 percent of adolescents report having gambled for money in the past year, according to the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High Risk Behaviors at McGill University. Approximately 30 percent report gambling on a weekly basis. Problem gamblers, meanwhile, report beginning gambling during childhood -- as early as ages 9-10 -- according to McGill's International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High Risk Behaviors.

The choice to gamble responsibly is an adult choice. Lottery instant games and other popular lottery products are not appropriate gifts for minors. The Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling and the Massachusetts State Lottery are working together this holiday season to increase public awareness of this issue.

"Lottery products, like any other form of legal gambling, are for adults ages 18 or older," said Kathleen M. Scanlan, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling. "This holiday season, if you do choose to offer a lottery product as a gift, it's important to keep the recipient's age in mind."

Massachusetts Lottery Director Mark Cavanagh said the Lottery's more than 7,000 sales agents are well trained in the Lottery's policies prohibiting sales of all Lottery products to minors. Such sound judgment should be used by all adults, according to Cavanagh.

"Lottery season tickets and instant games are increasingly popular gift items at this time of year," Cavanagh said. "But we urge parents and other adults to find more suitable gifts for children and teenagers."

About the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling

The Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling is a private, non-profit health agency dedicated to reducing the social, financial and emotional costs of problem gambling. The Council provides prevention, information, education, advocacy, and referral services for problem gamblers, their loved ones, and the greater community.

About the MassachusettsState Lottery

The Massachusetts State Lottery was created in 1971 to raise revenues for the Commonwealth's 351 cities and towns. Since 2003, the Lottery has raised more than $5.6 billion for police officers, firefighters and teachers and other essential public services.
 
 
SOURCE Massachusetts State Lottery