Author: Casino Connection Staff

Hurricane Relief Dance Party at Resorts

Posted on October 13, 2017 by -

Cooper Levenson is holding a dance party to raise much-needed funds for Puerto Rico residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The fundraiser is a Latin Dance Party to be held at Resorts Casino on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be a pre-event Latin dance lesson at 5:30 p.m. The minimum donation to attend the event is $25 per person. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to Puerto Rico.

“Our hearts are with the people of Puerto Rico, who are facing insurmountable odds to rebuild their lives,” said Ken Calemmo, chief operating officer, Cooper Levenson. “We wanted to do what we could to help.”

Cooper Levenson has several staff members with family in Puerto Rico. They have had no contact from them since the storm.

Sponsors for the event include AtlantiCare, the Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce, the Press of Atlantic City, SNJ Today, Argyle Interactive, and WEMG-MEGA 105.7 FM and 1310 AM. Sponsorships are available and range from $500 to $1,500.

For questions on sponsorships or tickets or if you cannot attend the event, but wish to make a donation, call Angela Robinson at (609) 572-7642 or email arobinson@cooperlevenson.com.

Tropicana’s Beer & Whiskey Festival

Posted on October 13, 2017 by -

Join the party when Tropicana Atlantic City casino hosts a Beer & Whiskey Festival on Saturday, October 14 in the Grand Exhibition Center. Guest will enjoy sampling a wide selection of 60 beers and 30 whiskeys, plus live entertainment featuring John Eddie and His Dirty Ol’ Band. 

Ticket Price $35 day of and $30 advance. Must be 21
Saturday, October 14, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
For tickets and information Visit: tropicana.net

Report: Sports Betting Would Quickly Spread If New Jersey Wins

Posted on October 9, 2017 by -

If New Jersey is triumphant in its case to allow sports betting being heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, as many as 32 states would approve sports betting in the next five years, according to a report by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, LLC.

The company tracks state-by-state gambling legislation and predicts a sports betting market worth $6 billion and as much as $7.1 to $15.8 billion if every state allowed it.

The report notes that Americans are already betting up to $60 billion at offshore sites and bookies, said Chris Grove, managing director for the firm. Sports betting that generates about $3 billion in revenue each year from U.S. customers.

“We estimate that a properly regulated market could be worth nearly five times that amount, resulting in a financial windfall for sports betting operators, sports leagues and media and state governments alike,” Grove said.

The illegal market studied does not include office pools and “social” or “casual” bets among friends.

New jersey is currently challenging the federal Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which currently bans sports betting in all but five states. Should the court rule in the state’s favor, the study predicts 14 states would offer sports betting within two years: Colorado; Connecticut; Delaware; Indiana; Massachusetts; Michigan; Mississippi; Montana; New Jersey; Ohio; Nevada; Pennsylvania; Virginia; and West Virginia.

Within five years, it predicted 18 more would join: Arizona; California; Idaho; Illinois; Iowa; Kansas; Kentucky; Louisiana; Maine; Maryland; Missouri; New York; North Carolina; North Dakota; Oklahoma; Vermont; Washington and Wyoming.

And within seven years, another dozen could offer it as well: Alabama; Arkansas; Florida; Georgia; Minnesota; Nebraska; New Hampshire; New Mexico; Oregon; Rhode Island; South Dakota and Wisconsin. The remaining states might never offer sports betting, the Eilers & Krejcik Gaming report said.

The study took into account whether a state already has pending legislation; if there are constitutional obstacles to expanding gambling; whether their gambling industry is united or divided; the general legislative attitude toward gambling as it exists now in a particular state, and how badly a state needs extra money, the report said.

The professional and collegiate sports leagues oppose New Jersey’s effort to legalize sports betting, saying it would threaten the perceived integrity of the games.

Caesars Back in the Game

Posted on October 9, 2017 by -

Regulators in Missouri and Louisiana have signed off on the court-supervised restructuring of Caesars Entertainment Operating Company, the stage is set for the return of the Caesars conglomerate as a leading force in gaming.

The approvals―the last that Las Vegas-based parent Caesars Entertainment needed from the states where CEOC, its largest subsidiary, operates―enabled the company to target October 6 for CEOC’s exit from U.S. Bankruptcy Court protection.

The announcement came with a statement from Caesars promising a “stronger company” ready to embark on a nationwide strategy of “growth and investment.”

“The conclusion of CEOC’s restructuring leaves Caesars Entertainment with an expected enterprise value of approximately $20 billion based on yesterday’s closing prices. With reduced leverage, increased free cash flow and the new REIT structure, we are positioned with a solid foundation to pursue a diversified growth strategy,” said Mark Frissora, president and chief executive officer of Caesars Entertainment. “Throughout the restructuring process, Caesars has invested significantly to upgrade and renovate its facilities. Total capex from 2015-2017 is expected to exceed $1.5 billion, which will benefit the company going forward. We are also executing hundreds of initiatives to generate incremental revenue, as well as to enhance operational efficiency, guest experiences and employee engagement through technology-driven innovation and process improvement.”

That view got a hearty endorsement from Wall Street in the form of a successful placement by Caesars of $1.7 billion in junk bonds at 5.25 percent to help fund the restructuring―well under the 5.4 percent average yield for similarly rated bonds, according to Bank of America Merrill Lynch data.

Caesars cited five points it will pursue now that bankruptcy is behind it.

• Leveraging Significant Presence in Growing Las Vegas – Caesars Entertainment will continue to update its room product in Las Vegas in line with its positive long-term outlook for this market. In addition, the Company is advancing the development of a convention center and other opportunities to monetize large, underutilized commercial scale properties adjacent to the Las Vegas strip in its real estate portfolio.

• Pursuing Network Expansion Opportunities – Caesars Entertainment anticipates unlocking new opportunities for organic and inorganic growth across global markets supported by a strong free cash flow profile following CEOC’s emergence from bankruptcy.

• Building on Proven Management Execution – Caesars Entertainment is primed to further improve its financial and operating performance with hundreds of discrete projects under the Company’s Office of Continuous Improvement and through the deployment of new best-in-class, secure, cloud-based enterprise-wide technology solutions.

• Enhancing the Strongest Loyalty Program in the Gaming Industry – With more than 50 million Total Rewards members, Caesars Entertainment is driving revenue growth through technology enhancements in its marketing and engagement channels, such as the application of machine learning to customer behavioral data.

• Taking Advantage of New Capital Structure – With approximately $2 billion in cash, and growing cash flow, Caesars Entertainment is well positioned to invest in future growth.

Most analysts expect investors to come return.

“In a hot market, memories become short and all past sins are forgiven,” Mike Terwilliger, a portfolio manager at Resource America, told International Financing Review.

It’s a herald of what analysts and industry observers see as a new era for the casino giant, and Caesars doubled down on it with the appointment of a new 11-member board of directors chaired by James Hunt, who joins the company from Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide, where he served as executive vice president and CFO.

What’s significant about the pricing of the bonds, say analysts and investors, is that it points to a belief in the essential strength of Caesars’ far-flung operations―47 casinos owned or managed in 13 states and five international jurisdictions.

Rather what hobbled the company, they say, was the 2008 leveraged buyout engineered by private equity giants Apollo Global Management and TPG Capital that saddled Harrah’s Entertainment, as the company was then known, with $28 billion of debt right at the onset of the Great Recession.

As one leveraged finance banker explained to IFR, “The issue with Caesars was always the capital structure, not the business.”

In the years that followed, with interest payments gobbling up earnings that might have gone into reinvestment and expansion, management began maneuvering the company’s best-performing assets into new, healthy subsidiaries to shield them from the trip to Chapter 11 that appeared increasingly inevitable. CEOC’s creditors, who were left holding the bulk of the debt, some $18 billion, were infuriated, they sued, and the rancor spilled over into Bankruptcy Court when CEOC failed to make a December 2014 interest payment and, as long expected, filed for Chapter 11 protection in January 2015.

Within six months, Chairman and CEO Gary Loveman, who had overseen the Apollo-TPG buyout and the subsequent asset shifts, was removed from operational control of the company. Frissora, the chief executive of Hertz, took over and 18 months of contentious negotiations ensued that finally were resolved with Caesars’ decision to sell its lucrative online business and package the cash as compensation for CEOC’s lenders.

A restructuring of both CEOC and parent Caesars Entertainment was devised and approved by a U.S. Bankruptcy judge in Illinois in January of this year. It will see Apollo and TPG reduced to minority shareholders in a publicly traded real estate investment trust that will own CEOC’s casinos and lease them to a separately listed operating company. Lenders will own a majority share of both entities through a combination of cash and stock equivalent to $10 billion of CEOC’s debt load. They also will control a reconfigured Caesars that will merge with Caesars Acquisition Company, giving them a lucrative stake in one of the strongest of the subsidiaries.

Gros, Meitzler Win AGEM Awards

Posted on October 9, 2017 by -

Global Gaming Business and GGB News Publisher Roger Gros received the 2017 Peter Mead Memorial Award Honoring Excellence in Gaming Media and Communications at last week’s Global Gaming Expo; and Rick Meitzler, president of Novomatic Americas, received the Jens Halle Memorial Award Honoring Excellence in Commercial Gaming Professionalism.

The awards were granted in a ceremony hosted by AGEM Executive Director Marcus Prater at G2E.

AGEM previously announced the creation of this unique annual awards program to acknowledge the lasting impacts on gaming by Halle and Mead, two distinctive industry veterans who died unexpectedly in 2015.

Now nearly four decades into a gaming career that started as a dealer in Atlantic City in 1979, Gros, 66, is the undisputed dean of North American gaming journalists. He started chronicling the gaming industry as a co-founder of Casino Journal magazine in 1983 as well as Casino Player magazine in 1988 that went on to become the leading source of information for casino visitors.

In 2002, he founded Global Gaming Business magazine, and has been publisher for the past 15 years for the leading trade publication that has the official endorsement of both AGEM and the American Gaming Association. His Casino Connection International company also publishes the Tribal Government Gaming, Casino Style and G2E Preview industry journals.

In addition, Gros is president of one of the leading marketing affiliates in the U.S. iGaming industry, iGamingPlayer.com. Gros also was a co-founder of the Southern Gaming Summit in Biloxi, Mississippi, and has organized hundreds of informative panel discussions for G2E, G2E Asia and other trade shows and conferences.

“Roger’s collective history and knowledge of the industry has been shaped by diverse and unique viewpoints that have made him one of gaming’s greatest communicators and steadfast supporters,” said Prater. “His written words and dedication to the trade journal and trade show segments of our industry have kept all of us informed and engaged as gaming has expanded globally over the past 30 years. He remains a go-to commentator for the mainstream media and supports gaming with a commitment to accuracy based on decades of experience and observation.”

Currently celebrating his 40th year in the gaming industry, Meitzler, 59, began his career as an assistant game designer for Bally Gaming in Chicago in 1977 and now serves as president and CEO of Novomatic Americas, a subsidiary of Austrian technology powerhouse Novomatic Group.

In his distinguished career with Bally spanning more than 33 years and dozens of jurisdictions around the world, Meitzler held more than 10 different positions, primarily in the areas of sales and customer service. In 2007, he assisted Australian company Ainsworth Game Technology’s U.S. entry as senior vice president of North American operations. Meitzler assumed his current position with Novomatic in 2015, and oversees a growing team dedicated to expanding the company’s overall presence in North America.

“How very deserving and appropriate it is for Rick Meitzler to receive this award named for his mentor and friend Jens Halle,” said Tom Nieman, president of AGEM. “If you read through the nominating criteria that captures the spirit of Jens and his career, you could just as easily be talking about Rick. He has succeeded in his career by taking care of his customers around the world with a smile on his face and a high level of integrity that makes him one of our industry’s most respected and popular figures.”

Halle, a longtime Bally and Novomatic executive in Europe who was most recently CEO of Gauselmann Group’s Merkur Gaming based in Florida, died suddenly on May 20, 2015 at the age of 57. Mead, the founder and publisher of Casino Enterprise Management magazine, died suddenly in Las Vegas on June 24, 2015 at the age of 54.

Current gaming professionals were nominated for these memorial awards based on the following criteria that aim to capture the unique attributes displayed by Halle and Mead during their storied careers:

Ainsworth Game Technology founder and current Executive Chairman Len Ainsworth and Golden Entertainment Director of Corporate Communications and former Las Vegas Review-Journal gaming columnist Howard Stutz were the initial recipients of the AGEM memorial awards program in 2016.

Report: Global Online Gambling Market hit $44 Billion in 2016

Posted on October 9, 2017 by -

A report titled “Global Online Gambling Market” from Technavo covering online gambling for the 2016-2022 period reported that online gaming hit $44.16 billion in 2016 and is estimated to reach $81.71 billion by 2022.

The report noted that the use of mobile devices for online gambling purposes is increasing and also that growth for the industry is very geography specific, according to an analysis at yogonet.com.

More than 80 nations have legalized online gambling with Europe as the largest online gambling market in the world. In the Asia Pacific region, the online gambling sector has shown slow growth as many Asian countries such as Singapore have banned online play, the report said. African countries have also been slow to legalize online gambling.

Also, despite the growth in online gaming, land-based gambling still dominates the gambling market, but a major driver for online play could be is the opening up of new markets in countries such as the U.S. where three states now offer online gambling.

 

Colorado-based Company Named as Potential Revel Atlantic City Buyer

Posted on October 8, 2017 by -

The fate of the closed Revel Atlantic City casino—now rebranded as TEN—remains mysterious, as another possible buyer has filed an agreement of sale for the property with Atlantic County New Jersey.

But according to the Press of Atlantic City, which reported the filing, property owner Glen Straub again denied a deal was in place and even said he had never heard of the company filing the agreement.

Still, analysts pointed out in several published reports that it would be unlikely a company would make the filing without a signed deal, though the deal could be subject to some conditions such as financing and regulatory approval. Sources tell GGB News that regulatory review for the new owners is under way, and that wouldn’t happen unless a deal signed by both sides had been filed with the Division of Gaming Enforcement.

The agreement was filed on August 31, and states that Straub has agreed to sell the property to a group associated with Mile High Dice MGR, LLC, based in Colorado, the Press reported. The sale agreement includes both the casino property and its on-site power plant.

The documents name Bruce Deifik as the manager of Mile High Dice. If the sale goes through, Deifik will be manager of the purchaser TEN RE ACNJ.

Deifik is founder, president and chief executive officer of Integrated Properties, Inc., a company formed in April 1990 to handle acquisition, development, asset management, property management, leasing and disposition of commercial properties under the ownership of Deifik and his investment partners. Projects by the company include the Hyatt Grand Champions Resort in Palm Springs as well as numerous office and retail centers in the Denver and Phoenix metropolitan areas, the Press reported. He is also the former head of the Nevada-based Greenspun Corp., owner of the Las Vegas Sun newspaper.

The agreement filing does not name a price for the former casino and Deifik declined to comment on the filing to the paper.

Straub, however, denied the sale was in the offing.

 “I have no idea. I’ve never talked to them,” Straub told the paper. “They are doing this just so they can tie up our property. People can file anything.”

Also, another firm, Keating & Associates LLC, a New York-based private investment firm, recently confirmed it has made a $225 million offer for the property recently. The company issued a statement after the story on the filing broke saying they remained committed to purchasing the property and praised Straub for keeping the closed property in prime condition.

Straub, however, has repeatedly denied he is close to selling the property and told Philly.com he has not been in talks with Keating either.

Straub has announced grand plans for the former casino he bought for $82 million out of bankruptcy court, but he has also missed several announced opening dates for the property.

Straub remains embroiled in a legal battle with the state on whether he needs a full casino license to lease casino space at the property. Straub maintains that he doesn’t, but the state Casino Control Commission is requiring Straub get a full license. Straub said he is waiting for his appeal on the commission’s ruling to be settled before considering selling the property.

Straub wants to lease the casino space to Connecticut developer Robert A. Landino to run as Ten casino resort. According to a report at Philly.com, Landino formed Ten RE ACNJ—named as the potential buyer in the filed agreement—in December. Mile High Dice MGR LLC manages Ten RE ACNJ.

Ten RE ACNJ’s formation documents were amended by Deifik last month to incorporate provisions of New Jersey’s Casino Control Act, indicating that the company may intend to seek a gambling license in the future, the Philly.com report said.

3rd Annual HBSF Golf Tournament

Posted on September 29, 2017 by -

Come celebrate the life of Howard Bacharach and support local students at the 3rd Howard Bacharach Scholarship Foundation Gold Tournament, Friday, October 6 at Linwood Country Club. The tournament includes a BBQ & Awards Luncheon.

The Howard Bacharach Scholarship Foundation (HBSF) was formed to raise funds for students pursuing a career in the hospitality, culinary and tourism fields, which was Howard’s passion as Executive Director of the AC Hotel & Lodging
Association. Since April 2015, the HBSF has distributed $36,000 to students pursuing a career in the hospitality,
culinary or tourism fields.

Call Ronnie Bacharach at 609-992-7449 or visit: https://linwoodcountryclub.com

MBCA’s 27th Annual Installation and Awards Gala

Posted on September 29, 2017 by -

The Atlantic City Metropolitan Business and Citizens Association (MBCA) has been in existence for over 25 years and continues to grow and prosper with the continued support of their members.

MBCA has grown to include in its membership 12 casinos, over 350 local businesses, 50 nonprofit groups and over 100 citizens. They are an all inclusive organization that strives to serve and represent all of the Greater Atlantic City area. MBCA works for the betterment of its neighborhoods and strives to be a constructive force to the society by working with and supporting other nonprofit groups, supporting civic events and awarding scholarships to local individuals.

The event includes the Community Spirit Award Recipient 2017 which will go to Tropicana Atlantic City. Tropicana casino is a premier east coast destination which recently invested over $90 million to bring more innovative and non-gaming excitement to its guests and local community. This investment created hundreds of jobs during its construction and currently employs over 3,000 employees.Steve Callender, General Manager of Tropicana Atlantic City, will be accepting the MBCA Community Spirit Award.

Tickets to the event are $110 per person.
To register visit: https://form.jotformpro.com/71944775284974

Halloween Happenings in & Around Atlantic City 2017

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

 

It’s that time of year again as ghosts and goblins come out for a good time. We’ve got your run down of places to party this Halloween, as well as some great Family Fall Events around the Atlantic City area.


AC NIGHTLIFE: COSTUME PARTIES & MONSTER MASHES

Tropicana’s Ultimate Halloween Celebration 
Sat., October 28, 2017
Thrills on the Boardwalk 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
As darkness falls across the land, the midnight hour is close at hand… Hosted by Cat Country’s Joe Kelly, this thrilling extravaganza begins at 7:30 on the Boardwalk in front of the Tropicana where a featured Halloween theme light show will set the mood.

Thriller Line Dance 8:00 p.m.
Brave souls are invited to join the Boogie Nights cast as the reenact the famous dance from Michael Jackson’s Thriller Video.

In the Quarter 
Annual Costume Contest in The Quarter 9pm-10pm
What is Halloween without a killer costume? The stakes are high at Tropicana’s Annual Halloween Costume Contest. The contest kicks off at 9p.m. in the Quarter’s Fiesta Plaza. Best overall costume wins $500 Tropicana Gift Card. The Scariest costume wins an overnight stay with gourmet dinner for 2 and IMAX tickets. Winners of the Best Group Costume each get a $50 Tropicana Gift Card (up to 5 members).

Boogie Nights: The Ultimate 70’s and 80’s Dance Club
Boogie Nights keeps the Halloween party going for three nights!

  ● Thursday, October 26 is 90’s Night! Be a Hero! Come dressed as your favorite super hero for a chance to win some totally awesome prizes. A portion of the proceeds from festive drink specials and bottle service packages benefit the Hero Campaign for Designated Drivers. Admission is $10.

   ● Friday, October 27 is the Celebrity Dance of the Dead! Come dressed as your favorite 70’s or 80’s dead celebrity and let our talented body painter zombify you! Be there at midnight for the Boogie Nights dance off for a chance to win prizes. Admission is $10.

  ● Saturday, October 28 is the Boooogie Nights Halloween Bash! Wear your best costume for Best Group, Scariest. Sexiest, Best 70’s & 80’s and Best Overall – a $1000 grand prize. Admission is $20.

RiRa Irish Pub
Celebrates Halloween on October 28 with drind specials ($4 Witches Brew, $3 PBR’s, $7 Poison Apple Martini, $5 Bloody Brain Shooter), prizes for best costume, live music, and daytime face painting for kids.

Cuba Libre presents Phobia! What’s your fear?!
Join Cuba Libra as we celebrate Halloween frights with music by Latin Connection hosted by DJ B3bo, Special Halloween Midnight Madness, and a costume contest. On Saturday, October 28 compete for Sexiest, Funniest and Best Costumes for a chance to win the Grand Prize Trip Giveaway. Doors open at 10:30 pm with reduced admission until midnight. Proper dress required; costumes encouraged.

Anthem: 4 Nights of Frights!

  ● Friday, October 27: Kicking off Halloween weekend with Spooktacular Deals│2 for 1 Bottle service packages│Doors open at 11pm│Call For details 609-576-5206.

  ● Saturday October 28: Step inside our creepy fun house for a costume Contest with cash & prizes! Plus the after party begins at 3am and goes into the daylight until 7am for all you vampires.

  ● Sunday, October 29: Sunday Funday! Halloween edition! Lots of tricks & Treats, Candy for everyone! $150 bottle service packages available | Doors open at 11pm.

  ● Tuesday, October 31:The hottest new Tuesday night industry party in AC | Halloween edition! Free admission with costume, Senate DJS & DJ SoJo Doors open at 11pm.

Guess the Number of Candy Corn
Feeling Lucky? Beginning October 1 through 6 p.m. on October 28 TROP ADVANTAGE® Members can guess the number of candy corn for a chance to win $1,000 FREE SLOT PLAY guaranteed! Visit the display in Palm Walk, then lock in your one-time guess at any Trop Advantage comp kiosk machine for your chance to win! The winner will be announced on October 28 at 6:30 p.m.

Plus, don’t forget to look for more Halloween parties and prizes throughout the Tropicana all night long!
Visit: www.tropicana.net 


The Ultimate Halloween @ Caesars and Bally’s Atlantic City

The Wild Wild West at Bally’s
Vamps & Tramps Halloween Riot ● Friday, October 29
The Wild Wild West at Bally’s is home to the ultimate boardwalk Halloween spook-tacular on Friday night: the Vamps & Tramps Halloween Riot! The party includes an open bar from 9pm – 11pm and a costume contest beginning at midnight with the chance to win some awesome prizes!

Guy Fieri’s “Dining with the Dead “Party at Bally’s
Thursday, October 26
Guests are encouraged to show up in “Walking Dead” style costumes to the latest of Guy Fieri’s Chophouse’s legendary blackout dinners. This 7-course dinner will feature Tito’s Vodka and Jack Daniels, and be served under a blacklight!

Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars
Friday, October 27 • TAPPING OF THE MYSTERY FIRKIN
If you’ve ever been to Firkin Friday at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, you already know what a good time it is when they tap the firkin (which is a 9-gallon cask of unfiltered ale, for those of you who don’t speak Ramsey). However, this one has a spooky twist, as the hoppy treat inside is a mystery.

Nero’s Ialian Steakhouse at Caesars
Friday October 27 • MADAM BETTY’S ROARIN 20’S MURDER MYSTERY
Here’s your chance to put on your detective hat and try to solve a murder mystery in Betty’s Back Room at Nero’s Italian Steakhouse! You’re also welcome to dress as a gangster or a flapper, considering it is the roaring 20’s! Enjoy a cocktail reception, as well as a four-course  dinner and a chance to win up to $1000 in prizes!

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS AT CAESARS AND BALLY’S
Saturday, October 28 • ADULT TRICK OR TREAT
What’s Halloween in AC without the Adult Trick or Treat? This fan favorite is back again, and there’s no trick to the awesome treats you can get! Show up in your most creative costume and enjoy appetizers and adult beverages from participating restaurants along with the chance to win tons of great prizes!

Nero’s Italian Steakhouse
Sunday, October 29 • BETTY’S BIZARRE BRUNCH
It was already pretty scary how good the Sunday Brunch at Nero’s Italian Steakhouse is, but the Halloween edition won’t be your traditional brunch. Betty’s Bizarre Brunch will feature Halloween food items and a bizarre yet delicious menu!
Visit:  blog.caesars.com/atlantic-city


Halloween at Borgata Casino Hotel & Spa

Halloween Party at Gypsy Bar
Borgata Casino and Spa, Atlantic City
Friday, October 27 – Saturday, October 28 ● 11:30 p.m.
Celebrate Halloween Weekend at Gypsy Bar! Beginning at 11:30 pm there will be a costume contest giving away $1,250 in prizes. First place winner will receive $1,000 in cash and Second place winner will receive a $250 bar tab and a reserved area. You don’t want to miss out.
Visit:  www.theborgata.com/shows

Halloween Parties at Premier Nightclub
Borgata Casino and Spa, Atlantic City
Friday, October 27 – Monday October 29
Trick or treat yourself to a weekend of partying at the Premier Nightclub. They’re creepin it real with special guest DJs and over $5000 in cash prizes for costume contests Saturday through Monday.
Visit:  www.premierborgata.com/halloween-weekend

 

PUMPKIN FESTIVALS & PARADES
Atlantic City Rotary Halloween Parade
October 28, 2017
Atlantic City Rotary 1st Annual Halloween Parade takes place Saturday, October 28, 2017. Line-up on the Boardwalk at New Jersey Avenue by Showboat. Registered Autos and Floats arrive on Rhode Island Avenue.
* Prizes for Best Costume
* 2:00 PM  Line-up / Judging
* 3:00 PM Parade Step – off
* Drill Team Judging
* Rain date – Sunday October 29, 2017
New Jersey Avenue on the Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Call 609-703-9000. All Floats & Autos must register at www.acrotary.org.

14th Annual South Jersey Pumpkin Show
October 13-15, 2017
Celebrate the “Festival of Pumpkins” with the entire family. Pumpkin sale, pumpkin dessert contest, pumpkin toss and New Jersey’s biggest pumpkin pie. New this year a master pumpkin carver to sculpt a 500 + pound pumpkin.  Enjoy live entertainment, amusement rides, rows of artists and craftsmen, food galore, wine sampling and much more. There’s even a Little Miss & Mister Pumpkin Show Pageant for girls and boys ages 4 to 9. And an all-breed dog parade and contest. FREE Admissions parking is $5.
Salem County Fairground, 735 Harding Highway (Rte. 40), Woodstown, NJ
Call 856-765-0118 or Visit: sjpumpkinshow.com

26th Annual Pumpkin Festival 
October 21 • 10 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
With food, games, hayrides through the farm, haunted house at the village barn, pumpkin painting Children’s Halloween parade starts at 11 a.m. Admission is FREE! Guests are encouraged to donate non-perishable goods to the “Share the Harvest Food Drive”.
Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 Rt. 9 South, Cape May, NJ
609-898-7880, www.hcsv.org

Costume Pet Parade at Historic Smithville
Sat. Oct. 21, 2017 ● 1 p.m.
If you love playing with your puppy and dressing them up, this is the event for you! Paw Dazzle will host the Annual Costume Pet Parade.  Come and watch 100+ pets show off their unique Halloween costumes! Free to the public
Visit: www.historicsmithville.com

Bass Pro Shop’s “The Great Pumpkin Celebration and Halloween Event”
Stop in to Bass Pro Shop Atlantic City for some frightening good time!
Sat. Oct. 21 & Sun. Oct. 22 • Noon – 5pm—Ghost craft and Pumpkin Game
Sat. Oct. 28 & Sun Oct. 29 • Noon – 5 pm—Pumpkin Craft and Pumpkin Game
Wed. Oct. 27 & Mon Oct. 30 • 5 – 7 pm — Pumpkin Craft and Pumpkin Game
Tues. Oct. 31 ● 4pm-8pm – Trick or Treat Tote Craft, and parade
All events FREE
Visit:  www.basspro.com 

Hammonton’s Kiwanis Club Halloween Parade
A 42 year tradition marches ahead for a night of floats, costumes, music, and more. The parade begins at Egg Harbor Road & Bellevue and travels up Bellevue to Third Street. Rain Date: Thursday October 26th.

Ocean City Halloween Parade
October 26, 2017 • 7:15 p.m.
Costume contest and more. On Asbury Ave. from 6th – 11th Street. Sponsored by the Ocean City Exchange Club. For more information call 609-399-6111.
Visit: www.oceancityvacation.com

Absecon Lighthouse Host Haunted Tours
Saturday, October 28 ● 5, 6, 7, & 8 p.m.
Do you want to discover if Absecon Lighthouse is home to ghostly keepers that still watch over the shore in Atlantic City? Did the Jersey Devil pay a visit in 1909? Come visit the Absecon Lighthouse to hear the true ghost stories that prompted a visit from SyFy’s Ghost Hunters! The New Jersey Researchers of Paranormal Evidence (NJ ROPE) will be on property to help you hunt for ghosts. Plus, hear their eerie recordings taken during a paranormal investigation. Guided tours of the grounds and tower will let you explore the rich history and experience some spooky tales. Reservations are required; call 609-449-1360. Tour times are 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, & 8pm, and include a tower climb. 
Tickets: $20.00, and includes snacks & beverages and must be reserved.
31 So. Rhode Island Ave., Atlantic City.
Visit: www.abseconlighthouse.org

Zombie Walk at Historic Smithville
Sat. October 28, 2017 • Open 11 a.m. – Zombie Walk 6 p.m.
Zombies and humans are invited to come to Historic Smithville’s Village Greene. The Zombie Market will include Makeup artists to turn the most innocent of humans into a zombie for a small fee. Live music, Zombie pin-up Contest with a $100 cash prize, vendors and of course hundreds of zombies.
Free admission Free parking
Visit: historicsmithville.com

Boo at the Zoo
Sat. October 28, 2017 • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Cape May County Zoo will hold its annual Boo at the Zoo Halloween celebration with games, candy, entertainment, an inflatable obstacle course, a magic show and, of course, animals. People of all ages are welcome to don a costume and join in the family fun. A costume contest will be held at 11 a.m. (registration at 10 a.m.) with awards.
Admission and parking are free, and donations are always welcome.
For information call 609-465-5271 or visit cmczoo.com.

Witches Day Out at Historic Smithville
Sun. Oct. 29, 2017 ● 2 p.m.
Treat yourself to a witchy good time at the third annual witches day out in Smithville Village. Wear your witch’s hat and enter the hat contest. Registration begins at the Barrymore Tavern at 2 PM. The winner will receive a prize announced at 5 PM at the Smithville Inn. Food and drink specials will be offered. Stop at their shops with your hat and see what deals await you! Free to the public.
Call: 609-652-7777 or visit: historicsmithville.com

HAUNTED HAYRIDES & FAMILY FUN
Happy Halloween Fun at Storybook Land
Thurs.-Sun. in October, 2017 • Open 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.
For the past 62 years Storybook land has provided Halloween fun for the entire family. Climb aboard the Happy Hayride, pick and decorate your own pumpkin, and find your way through Elmer’s Hay Maze. This combined with Storybook attractions, festive decorations, and unlimited rides are included on October’s admission.
Trick or Treat Weekend Oct. 27 – Oct. 29, from 11:00 – 5:00, kids receive a Free Trick-or-Treat Bag and collect treats at over 20 different stations. Don’t forget to wear your costumes!
Visit: storybookland.com

Cornfield of Terror Maze, Hayrides
Every Fri., Sat. & Sun. in October • Dusk to10 p.m.
Legend has it that the first settlers in this rural part of Galloway Twp. have disappeared with no trace during the time of a harvest moon centuries ago. Ever since, the locals have said they hear mysterious howls and screams of those missing folks. Enter if you dare the same Cornfield of Terror at R&J Farm. Get lost in the non-scary maze during the daytime and night! Enjoy a movie in the outdoor movie screen. Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch. Check website for hours of attractions.
R&J Farm, 723 W. Herschel Street, Egg Harbor City, NJ
609-593-6180, Visit: www.cornfieldofterror.com

Scullville Terror in the Junkyard
Every Fri. & Sat. beginning Sept. 29, 7-11 p.m., Every Sun. 7-10 p.m.
The Scullville Fire Company presents its annual Terror in the Junkyard Hayride and Maze. New this year “Apocalypse Training” Zombir Paintball Shoot out. Just $5 for .50-.50 caliber balls includes gun and air. Hayride tickets $10, Maze $5, Combination $13. 
Fleming’s Junkyard, 353 Zion Rd., Egg Harbor Township, NJ
609-927-2588, Visit: www.scullvillefire.org

Birch Grove Park – Family Halloween Hayrides
October 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 26-28 • 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Bring the family together and enjoy the fall weather at Birch Grove Park. Perfect for families avoiding certain frights, bring the kids for a seasonal night. $5 per person. 
Burton Ave., Northfield, NJ
609-641-3778, Visit: www.cityofnorthfield.org

Butterhof’s Shady Brook Farm Corn Maze
Sat. & Sun.  From Sept. 17 through October 31 • 10:00 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
Evenings & weekends reservation only
4-acre cornmaze, U-pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, children activities, apple cider, cornstalks, mums. 
5800 White Horse Pike, Egg Harbor City, NJ
609-965-1285, Visit: www.shadybrookfarmnj.com

Haunted Seaport – Tuckerton Seaport Tuckerton, NJ
Thurs.-Sat., October 26-28 • 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Visit Tuckerton Seaport, if you dare, for a fright-astic adventure known in local lore as Haunted Seaport. Haunted Seaport will take place on Thursday, October 26, Friday, October 27, and Saturday, October 28 from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm each night. Pirates and Sea Captains long lost at sea will stroll the Seaport’s boardwalk for a night of screams. Meet and greet with the Jersey Devil while dancing to music sure to bring even zombies back life. You will not want to miss any of the fantastic phenomenal hauntings of the evening. For more haunted fun, climb aboard the Hayride through the Haunted Woods.
There is also a kid-friendly activity area with crafts, stories, games, not so scary fall activities and pumpkin slime!
Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5-12 (Free for Seaport Members and Kids under 5) Hayride: $5
Visit: www.tuckertonseaport.org

Trunk or Treat at NJ Motorsports
Fri., October 20 • 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
Safe family fun, the Trunk or Treat event is FREE and open to the public. Participants will decorate their trunks or backs of vehicles and pass out candies to children 12 and under from their trunks! Halloween costumes highly recommended. For more information call (856) 327-8000
8000 Dividing Creek Rd, Millville, NJ 
Visit: www.njmp.com

Fall at the Farm – Cape May Beach Plum Farm
Saturdays, Sept. 30 – Oct. 28
Warm autumn afternoons were meant to be spent on the farm. Come on out to Stevens Street in West Cape May for Beach Plum Farm’s “Fall at the Farm” celebration. Have a seat in the shade and enjoy delicious food, and sip on seasonal craft beer.  Hop on a hayride or take a stroll around the beautiful, wide-open 62 acres.  Enjoy live entertainment by the SunDogs from noon until 3:30 pm and Dale Barth from 4:00 pm until 7:30 pm.

Activities include: hayrides, pumpkin picking, pumpkin decorating, crafts and face painting.

*The farm will close at 5:00 pm on Saturday, October 14 for a private event. The farm is located at 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ 08204.  
For more information visit www.thebeachplumfarm.com.

Hard Rock AC Tries to Block Strip Club

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

Hard Rock Atlantic City has already gone a long way to obliterate any vestiges of the closed Trump Taj Mahal as it transforms the property, but one former tenant of the Taj—Scores gentlemen’s club—wants to remain a part of the picture.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City says it is trying to create a “family friendly” casino and wants to exclude the club, but Scores—which leased 30,000 square feet at the former Taj Mahal—says it wants to return and that its lease remains in “in full force and effect.” Scores entered into the lease with the Taj Mahal in 2010.

The result is now a lawsuit as Hard Rock tries to break the lease. According to a report at NJ.com, the suit filed by Hard Rock maintains that the club missed a 2015 deadline to obtain a five-year extension on the lease, causing its lease to expire in June 2016. The suit says Scores is threatening Hard Rock’s “ability to open on schedule and operate without impediment or potential denigration of its brand.”

Scores did close down in August 2016 as the Taj Mahal was closing.

Coincidentally, the suit came to light as workers for Hard Rock began demolishing the landmark Taj Mahal fountain at the entrance to the former casino. Hard Rock is spending $375 million to completely transform the property. The company hopes to re-open the casino next summer.

Tourism Indicators Up for Atlantic City

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

A recent report finds that Atlantic City’s seven remaining casinos have seen a benefit from the closing of the Trump Taj Mahal in 2016 by reviewing key tourism indicators.

The report, however, also finds that the city is generating more visitor trips and that the casinos aren’t simply divvying up the Taj’s former customers.

The report by Stockton University’s Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality & Tourism analyzed three key tourism indicators. The report based the findings on taxes generated by hotel stays at casinos, parking fees at resorts, and non-casino spending. The report says the three measurements “serve as an effective proxy for the performance of the tourism economy in Atlantic City.”

“All three performance indicators showed healthy gains in the second quarter with the Parking Fee per 100 spaces, Lodging Fee per 100 rooms and Atlantic County Non-Casino RevPAR showing ten percent, eight percent and eight percent increases over the prior 12 months,” said Brian Tyrrell, professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management Studies at Stockton University.

Parking fees are an indicator of trips to casinos. The study found that Atlantic City parking garages have collected more revenue on a per space basis in each of the past six months. The study did acknowledge that part of the increase at the city’s casinos resulted from the closing of the Taj Mahal’s 6,300 space parking garage.

The study also analyzed the Atlantic County Lodging Fee, the county’s take of a state tax on Atlantic City Hotel rooms. The closing of the Taj Mahal reduced the city’s total rooms, allowing for rate increases. During the second quarter of 2017, Atlantic City casinos reported an occupancy rate of over 90 percent on a nightly average rate of $107.43, the report said.

“In the wake of the casino closures, Atlantic County’s lodging industry has become highly efficient,” said Rummy Pandit, executive director of the Institute. “The Twelve-Month Trailing Total for the Atlantic County Lodging Fee is up 7.4 percent over the previous twelve-month period and, at $686 per 100 rooms, is the highest on record. Both Average Daily Room Rates and Occupancy for non-casino hotels increased in eight of the past 12 months.”

In another Atlantic City story, legislators announced a plan to rename the city’s main entertainment venue Boardwalk Hall after former Mayor James Whelan, who died of a heart attack last month. Whelan was later State Senator for Atlantic City and had a long, influential career advocating for the resort.

The legislation is sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney, Senator Raymond Lesniak, Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo and Assembly Deputy Speaker John Burzichelli.

“Senator Whelan spent decades in public service fighting for the residents of the region and the city he loved. The transformation of Atlantic City we are seeing now is a result of his tireless work and will be part of his legacy,” said Sweeney in a press release. “Boardwalk Hall is one of Atlantic City’s most historic and revered places, and it is only fitting that Atlantic City’s biggest champion is honored by having his name forever associated with it.”

Two New Poker Games Introduced at Tropicana Atlantic City

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

Poker players looking for a new experience can try their hand at Tropicana Atlantic City’s two new poker games—Asia Poker and Three Card Draw Poker. Asia Poker is now live in the Asian Games room “Jade Palace” and Three Card Draw Poker is in the main casino right next to some of players’ other favorite poker type games.

“These exciting new poker games are just the latest example of Tropicana’s commitment to deliver MORE fun, value and variety to our players,” explained Steve Callender, General Manager of Tropicana Atlantic City.

Asia Poker
Based on an Ancient Chinese game “13 Cards” Asia Poker is played with the same 53-card deck that Pai Gow Poker uses and has many of the same basic principles. Players receive seven cards which they form three separate hands of four, two and one cards each called High, Medium and Low. The objective is to out-rank the dealer in at least two of the three hands.  Hands are paid one to one, with no commission. A separate Bonus bet where the player’s hand is compared to a paytable gives players more ways to play and large payouts to win.

Three Card Draw Poker
Three-Card Draw Poker as the name implies gives the player the chance to improve their original three card poker hand. An Ante bet gets you in the game, you receive three cards. If you like your cards you can match the Ante and make an “In to Win” wager to play on. If you prefer, match your Ante and make a “Draw” wager, discard one card and receive a replacement, you’re still in the game, if not fold and forfeit the Ante. You play head up against the dealer. The dealer’s hand always qualifies. Bonuses are paid according to paytables. A separate optional bonus bet of your First Three Cards against a paytable increases your chances for a big payout.

In addition to these two new games, Tropicana recently moved and completely renovated the Poker Room to a new private, location behind Boogie Nights. This full-service facility has a spacious design featuring new poker tables, TVs, adjustable seats and is now non-smoking.

Hard Rock Moving HQ, Renovating Taj Mahal

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

Hard Rock International announced it will move its headquarters from Orlando to Hollywood, Florida by summer 2018. In a release issued by the American hotel and casino company operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, officials said, “Hard Rock International has announced it will move staff headquarters from Orlando to South Florida, joining forces with ownership, the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and the Seminole Gaming organization. The opportunity to combine the world-class talent of all three companies will create an even more powerful organization. At this time, details of the move and timing are still to be determined.”

The relocation was put into motion following the departure of Hard Rock President and Chief Executive Officer Hamish Dodds earlier this year.

The release further stated Hard Rock International plans to renovate the Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City, which was acquired in early April. Construction would be completed in summer 2018 and include a restaurant, poolside gambling, fantasy sports betting, skill-based slots and hidden VIP gambling rooms. Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen said the renovation would create more than 1,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permanent jobs. With a new name, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, the property would feature 2,400 slots and 130 gaming tables.

Hard Rock International paid $50 million for the Trump Taj Mahal, according to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission documents.

Deal for Revel?

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

The saga of Atlantic City’s failed Revel casino continues to evolve. As Casino Connection reported in August, a deal allegedly had been struck to sell the casino to a private investment firm. That firm was identified last week, New York’s Keating & Associates, as well as an updated price tag of $225 million. The original offer was reportedly $220 million.

But that is apparently not good enough for mercurial owner Glenn Straub. Straub has sued the state of New Jersey for not allowing a casino to open at the property, which he has renamed TEN. The Florida developer continues to insists that he does not need a casino operators license because he is leasing the casino space to an outside operator, even though all other owners of casino buildings or leased land in Atlantic City have been required to be licensed, and the regulations clearly state that requirement.

Straub, who bought Revel for $82 million in 2015, has repeatedly said it would reopen—even as a non-casino hotel—but all his deadlines have passed without success. Now, he’s even denying that an offer was made, despite the fact that Keating has issued a statement that contends not only has it been made but has been accepted.

“We feel that the Revel is a magnificent property that was never positioned the way that it should have been within the marketplace,” said Jeffery Keating, co-chairman of Keating and Associates, in a statement reported by the Atlantic City Press. “We see it as a brand with global potential and Atlantic City to be an incredible launching point.”

Straub “angrily” denied any offer has been made, according to the newspaper.

“I haven’t heard of any offer,” Straub said Thursday. “It’s costing me a $1 million a month to keep this place.”

Keating & Associates has a history of investing in Atlantic City, as well as other hospitality ventures, and sees tremendous value in Revel.

“Our plan is to develop one of the world’s top experiential destinations and to allow someone to truly revel in their experience; to enjoy life with passion and exuberance,” Keating said. “We are excited for the coming future and the partners, brands and opportunities we will bring to this property and Atlantic City as a whole.”

Sources tell GGB News (Casino Connections parent company) that former Sands Bethlehem President Mark Juliano has been hired by Keating to run the property and has been seen frequently at Revel towards the end of the summer. Other activity indicates that preparations are being made for some kind of opening. Juliano has vast experience in Atlantic City and has led Caesars Atlantic City and Trump Entertainment in the past.

SugarHouse Accuses Competitor of ‘Extortionate Demands’

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

A filing submitted to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court asking that the award of the second Philadelphia casino license to the Stadium Casino group be sent back to the state gaming board alleges that the Market East group, a losing bidder for the license which first appealed the award to the court, demanded SugarHouse pay them to cover costs of a second appeal.

SugarHouse is filing a petition to intervene in the case challenging the second Philadelphia casino license, which was sent back to the state Gaming Control Board at the end of July to determine whether the ownership stake of Watche “Bob” Manoukian, a principal in Stadium partner Greenwood Gaming, violates the state gaming law’s provision that no owner of 85 percent or more of one state casino can own more than a third of a second property.

Should the board determine that the award was proper—it is the second time it has considered the issue; the board found no illegality the first time—a new appeal can be filed with the Supreme Court. In its petition to intervene, SugarHouse included an email from Market East owner Ken Goldenberg to Neil G. Bluhm, CEO of SugarHouse parent Rush Street Gaming, asking for $100,000 a month to cover appeal cost, and to make payments until the case is decided and Market East’s casino opens.

According to a report in the Philadelphia Inquirer, SugarHouse said in the filing that the request was part of a “series of extortionate demands” from Goldenberg, all of which SugarHouse refused.

“In particular, Market East demanded that SugarHouse pay Market East’s past and future appeal costs, pay Market East $100,000 a month until such time as Market East opens a casino in Philadelphia, and assist Market East with ‘financing and otherwise sourcing funds’ for the project,” the court document said.

“And Market East further conditioned its continued participation in this case on SugarHouse’s agreement that in the event SugarHouse recants or defaults in any way, with respect to Market East’s demands, Market East would get the ‘greater of $___million or ___% ownership of (SugarHouse’s) casino businesses.’”

SugarHouse “rejected outright Market East’s demands,” the court filing said. According to the email exchange, Bluhm responded: “What you have proposed is ridiculous. I would not agree to any part of it.”

Bluhm and SugarHouse have insisted the casino’s participation in the appeal is based solely on the argument that the Philadelphia-area gaming market is already oversaturated, which would cause a second city casino to cannibalize the revenues current properties in the region.

PODCAST: Bill Boasberg, General Manager, MGM National Harbor

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

MGM National Harbor has been an unqualified success in the Maryland casino market. The closest casino to Washington D.C.—you can see the monuments from the deck of the hotel’s podium—National Harbor quickly took the top spot in the revenue race. Bill Boasberg, the general manager of MGM National Harbor, explains that is involved more than “build it and they will come.” The company had to understand the market and respond to its demands quickly after opening or all would be lost. Last week Boasberg was named the president and COO of Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Mississippi. He spoke with GGB Publisher Roger Gros at the National Harbor property on the shores of the Potomac River in June.

MGM Doubles Down in Connecticut

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

You could call MGM the casino developer that won’t take no for an answer. It has been turned aside at every turn in its efforts to first stop Connecticut’s gaming tribes from building a third casino, and then trying to blunt their effort by pushing for its own casino. MGM is undeterred by multiple court rulings, legislative decisions and now even a statement from the governor pouring cold water on its proposal. MGM pushes on.

Last week MGM released plans for a proposed $675 million “funded, shovel ready” casino in Bridgeport, the state’s largest city. Aiming at the New York market, the casino would be built along the waterfront. A water taxi could bring patrons from Long Island to Bridgeport. The site has long been popular with would-be casino developers. Donald Trump proposed his own casino along Long Island Sound in the city’s Steelpointe Harbor more than 20 years ago. It is about 80 miles southwest of the MGM Springfield.

MGM proposes a casino with 2,000 slots, 160 gaming tables, a theater with 700 seats, a hotel with 300 rooms, dining and retail shopping.

MGM claims it would create 7,000 jobs, pay a $50 million licensing fee to the state and pay $8 million to Bridgeport and another $4.5 million annually to surrounding communities.

Is the proposal a serious one, or the latest move in an increasingly frenetic chess game between MGM and the Pequot and Mohegan tribes? At the very least it creates political complications for the tribal casino.

First, the tribes proposed a third casino to lessen the devastation that opening of the MGM Springfield next year would have on Foxwoods and the Mohegan Sun. Then MGM tried to checkmate them by taking the state to federal court. When that gambit failed, MGM resorted to heavy lobbying of the legislature to try to persuade lawmakers to authorize an open competition and proposed a commercial casino in Bridgeport instead of the third, satellite casino run by the tribes. It argued that the southwestern part of the state was the most viable location for a third casino. That attempt failed when Governor Dannel P. Malloy threw his weight behind the tribal option, effectively killing the MGM-backed legislation.

Malloy doesn’t seem any more likely to embrace this latest proposal. Last week the governor, while admitting he hadn’t reviewed the MGM proposal, said that if the compacts were violated the state would lost almost $500 million in the next two years.

“I can’t imagine any scenario in which the tribal nations would agree to open up the compact on those grounds,” he told reporters. “I can’t imagine entering into an agreement with any entity that would endanger our agreement with the tribal nations.”

Now, after the most recent rebuff by a federal court of its challenge to the Connecticut law, MGM has unveiled a new commercial casino proposal. Is it a serious proposal, or a delaying tactic while it readies its MGM Springfield for opening in less than 12 months?

The $950 million MGM Springfield no doubt poses a nearly existential threat to the casinos the tribes operate in the southeastern part of the state. They are among the largest casinos in the world. But they are just climbing out of a nearly ten-year trough brought on by the Great Recession, when their profits declined dramatically. Foxwoods and the Mohegan Sun’s combined gaming revenue reportedly declined 7.5 percent between 2013 and 2015 at the same time when gaming revenues nationally were trending up.

Add to that studies that have shown that the Springfield casino will take a serious bite out their revenues if some stopgap casino wasn’t situated near the Connecticut-Massachusetts border. So, the tribes proposed a $300 million casino in East Windsor, 20 miles from Springfield.

MGM’s proposed casino would violate the exclusivity guaranteed to the tribes by their state tribal gaming compacts, under which the tribes pay 25 percent of gaming revenue to the state, and which they would continue to pay for their proposed satellite casino in East Windsor.

The tribes wasted no time early last week condemning the Bridgeport proposal and pointing out that it doesn’t have the support of the legislature or Governor Malloy. They also noted that it would violate their gaming compacts.

MGM, which has partnered with the development company Florida-based RCI Group, the developers of Steelpointe, dismisses this and insists it will “work diligently” to obtain the approvals it needs.

RCI has been involved with the waterfront development since 2001, working with the city to try to develop it. Two years ago, it opened a Bass Pro Shop, a Starbucks and a Chipotle restaurant. This year it began work on a 35,000-square foot building that would house a restaurant and offices.

MGM Chairman and CEO James Murren, a Bridgeport native son, insists the casino could help revitalize the state’s economy: “We’re interested in stabilizing Connecticut’s finances and strengthening its largest city and in the region creating jobs and economic expansion. MGM Bridgeport is the right development, at the right time and in the right place.” He added, “We just need the political commitment to make it happen.”

MGM has been crafting the proposal since June. It would take a year to begin building and 30 months after that to open, he said. It would be MGM’s 17th casino complex, if built. It would allow MGM to tap the New York market, which MGM has unsuccessfully tried to break into with a proposal for a casino in New York City, the U.S.’s largest city.

Murren touted both his personal connection to the city and MGM’s marketing expertise in New York and Fairfield County. “We are the market leader,” he said. “We are doing as well today as 15 years ago.”

In a separate statement he said, “A century ago, Bridgeport welcomed my family when they emigrated from Ireland. It is the city where I was born, and where a work ethic took root. I recall the neighborhoods and businesses that helped define Connecticut’s largest city, where families like mine could, through hard work and determination, build their futures.

“My connections to Connecticut remain strong, and I have assembled a team of experts at MGM who share my commitment to developing properties that maximize the potential of urban communities and contribute to their vitality. MGM believes that Bridgeport is the best location for Connecticut’s first commercial casino and is committed to competing in Connecticut wherever opportunities arise.”

He added, “MGM Bridgeport promises to be a pivotal development that will jumpstart job growth and economic expansion in Connecticut. As a central component of the breakthrough Bridgeport Harbor initiative, MGM Bridgeport will emerge, advancing efforts to realize the potential of Connecticut’s largest city.”

RCI Chairman Robert Christoph Sr., who developed Steelpointe, declared, “The focus is rightly on the thousands of jobs that will be created, on the economic impact that will be felt by families, by the community, and by residents all across this state. That impact should not be underestimated, and cannot be overstated. What we have developed with MGM is, in so many ways, a blueprint for progress for Bridgeport and for Connecticut.”

As chairman of Seaview Bridgeport LLC, Christoph added, “From day one, Seaview Bridgeport LLC has been unrelentingly committed to the development of Seaview Bridgeport LLC as an economic engine for Bridgeport, Fairfield County and the State of Connecticut – a thriving mixed-use, urban-oriented waterfront development and new Long Island Sound destination.

“That vision will be energized and enhanced with the presence of a world-class resort casino. That is why we are so excited by, and strongly support, the partnership we have forged with MGM Resorts International,” he said. “MGM Bridgeport, is just the type of private investment that caused the state of Connecticut and the city of Bridgeport to support the Bridgeport development in the first instance.”

The same day that MGM pulled the curtain back on its new proposal, its senior vice president and legal counsel Uri Clinton argued that the state did not support open competition and that the state and tribes openly supported the East Windsor casino as a defense against the Springfield casino.

MGM Resorts President William J. Hornbuckle told an interviewer that he has contacted Malloy. To the question of whether Malloy was receptive, Hornbuckle answered: “I wouldn’t go that far. But he didn’t know up until this morning whether this was going to happen.”

In the news conference Malloy said, “They admit in their own answers to questions earlier today that this would violate our agreement with the tribal nations, so over the next two years, that would have negative impact to the tune of almost $500 million on the state should they move forward.”

Andrew Doba of MMCT, the joint tribal entity that would actually run the third casino, accused MGM of a “pattern of dishonesty,” adding, “Authorization of this facility would violate the existing compacts between the two tribes and the state which would immediately end the slot payments that currently sends the state hundreds of million a year in much need revenue.”

Doba added, “The idea that MGM is having a ‘groundbreaking’ for a project that hasn’t come close to receiving legislative approval continues a pattern of dishonesty that we saw time and again during the legislative session. Our state’s elected officials saw through their dishonesty last session, and we expect them to see this latest fib for exactly what it is – another bought and paid for piece of misinformation.”

For any kind of traction, MGM’s proposal would require the support of the legislature and Governor Malloy. MGM argues that its deal is better than the 25 percent the tribe currently pays the state because that source is starting to dry up.

MGM proposes that it be allowed to build the casino, while waiting for approval of a license until later, a procedure MGM calls a “two-step process.”

It promises that it will eventually pay the state more than $300 million annually. It also predicts $600 million in new private investment, and that the project will be built without any government money.

It was the promise of millions of dollars for Bridgeport and surrounding communities that brought out New Haven Mayor Toni Harp and Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim to hold a joint news conference. New Haven would host the project’s work force development and permanent training center that would focus on all facets of working at a casino. Mayor Harp advised lawmakers, “Don’t shoot ourselves in the foot.” Legislators who represent the area attended the presser.

A spokesman for Harp added, “What excites the mayor is the prospect that her constituents and other residents of the New Haven area will be able to learn a marketable skill.”

 

BIA Complicates Satellite Casino

Meanwhile the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which the tribes have said had already decided that the third casino, in East Windsor, although a commercial one, does NOT violate the exclusivity clause of the compacts, muddied the waters further with a clarification letter that was anything but.

Acting Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Indian Affairs Michael Black sent the letter to both tribal chairmen, Kevin Brown and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler. In it he wrote that the amendment to the charter that the tribes and some lawmakers felt was necessary to cover everyone on the issue of exclusivity was “premature and likely unnecessary.”

He was answering a letter the state sent in July asking for an opinion from the BIA.

Black wrote, “The Amendment addresses the exclusivity provisions of the Gaming Compact,” He added, “We find that there is insufficient information upon which to make a decision as to whether a new casino operated by (the tribes) would or would not violate the exclusivity clauses of the Gaming Compact. The Tribes have entered an agreement with the State whereby they have agreed that the exclusivity provisions will not be breached by this arrangement. Therefore, our action is unnecessary at this time.”

State Attorney General George Jepsen’s office said it was reviewing the letter and declined to comment on it.

The fact that the letter doesn’t clearly say whether the existing compacts need to be amended is making some lawmakers nervous.

However, Senator Timothy D. Larson, who represents East Hartford, isn’t one of them. He told the Hartford Courant: “It did not say no. It said it was unnecessary, and I took that as favorable.”

In May of this year the acting Deputy Secretary of the Interior, James Cason, had written that “In practice, the Department has not disturbed long-standing compacts when reviewing amendments to the underlying agreement. Here, the Tribes and the State have long-relied upon the Compacts that have facilitated a significant source of revenue for the Tribes and the State. The Department does not anticipate disturbing these underlying agreements.”

Doba put the tribal spin on the letter: “The letter we received from the BIA affirms two points: 1) that both tribes maintain their exclusivity in the state and 2) that it’s up to that state and the tribes to agree that the exclusivity provisions will not be breached by their arrangement to jointly own and operate the East Windsor facility,” he said. “We view last year’s massive, bipartisan vote in favor of the project as positive proof that our state’s leaders understand exactly what’s at stake.”

Meanwhile Rep. Joe Verrengia, chairman of the Public Safety and Security Committee said in his opinion any changes to the compact will have to be formally adopted by the legislature.

But Verrengia added that this won’t amount to a rubber stamp and that things have changed since the legislature approved of the East Windsor site three months ago.

He intimated that the Bridgeport announcement by MGM would make it harder for lawmakers to reaffirm their support for the tribes.

“It may be problematic in moving forward because the political landscape has changed, those who voted in favor—the Bridgeport and New Haven delegations—carried the day in the approving the East Windsor casino,” Verrengia told Pechanga.net. “MGM’s announcement Monday of a Bridgeport casino, which includes a partnership with New Haven, may make it harder for lawmakers from Bridgeport and New Haven to offer their support.”

As if to buttress that statement, Rep. Christopher Rosario, whose district includes Bridgeport told the Courant: “I’m going to do everything in my power to see resources and jobs brought to Bridgeport. If there is a way that allows us to get both Bridgeport and their project, then let’s talk.”

A spokesman for the governor said that Malloy thought the murky BIA letter would at the very least slow down the process.

Given that the MGM Springfield will open almost exactly a year from now, delay may be exactly what MGM has in mind.

The Lion’s New Roar

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

MGM Resorts International is burnishing a new image as a global force in entertainment, high-end leisure, fine dining and nightlife.

The company’s new “Welcome to the Show” marketing campaign was unveiled on national television during last Sunday’s Emmy Awards and is being rolled out nationwide across an array of TV, print and social media outlets, including an interactive sweepstakes on Twitter.

Chairman and CEO Jim Murren characterized it as “an epic invitation, designed to declare our point of view to the world and tie together our deep and diverse portfolio of resorts, from those that define the famed Las Vegas Strip to those across the U.S. and around the world.”

The ads will showcase MGM as a leading global entertainment company capable of delivering a guest experience unparalleled in variety―from live and theatrical performances to dining, nightlife, retail shopping, spa offerings and more.

Designed by McCann New York, with PHD handling media planning and buying, the campaign will spread into highly trafficked spaces in New York, Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles for starters.

Social media will, of course, figure prominently, highlighted by the first Snapchat + Face lens in the travel industry and a Twitter program that features a 15-day interactive emoji-driven sweepstakes offering participants a daily play-to-win variety of resort packages capped by a $40,000 grand prize.

“‘Welcome to the Show’ gives audiences permission to be bold in their pursuit of fun, to live life fully,” said Chief Experience & Marketing Officer Lilian Tomovich. “It communicates our clear aspiration to be first in the minds of consumers as a company that offers the most comprehensive entertainment experiences, delivered by our extraordinary team around the world.”

Judge Rules Against Long Island Casino

Posted on September 28, 2017 by -

A state court judge has dropped a bomb on Long Island, ruling that the city of Islandia overstepped its authority in allowing Jake’s 58 Hotel and Casino to open.

The slots-only venue, which has enjoyed increasing success since opening earlier this year at the site of Suffolk County’s bankrupt OTB, is the target of a lawsuit filed by local residents and businesses who contend the expansion, which includes a hotel, has disrupted the surrounding neighborhood with noise and traffic and parking problems.

“It’s an amazing victory to me because we moved here to have a nice family community,” said April Meyer, whose home abuts the casino.

“It shows that ordinary taxpayers, if they unite and they coalesce and they have the courage and the fortitude, they can take on these unholy alliances, as I call them, of the big money and the unprincipled politicians,” said Paul Sabatino, the attorney for the casino’s opponents.

Sabatino argued that city officials rushed the casino application through against municipal code without a public hearing. The judge agreed, stating, “The accessory use of a casino was not necessary for the hotel’s operation.”

The casino, which grossed $220 million August, remains open pending a follow-up hearing next month. The city has until December 8 to appeal the ruling.