On January 1, Andy Sanborn, the owner of Concord Casino in New Hampshire and former state Senator, was ordered to shut his venue amid allegations of misuse of COVID relief funds.

The man was accused of obtaining fraudulently and misusing $844,000 in COVID relief funds, actions that ultimately put him in a tough spot. Sanborn was also given six months to sell the property, while the New Hampshire Lottery has taken the decision to suspend his gaming license.

Now, a newly released report suggests that while the former Senator is trying to sell the Concord Casino, he was able to secure an extension of the deadline for the sale. At the same time, a court’s decision reportedly sided with Sanborn in a move that may see him develop a new casino off Loudon Road.

As announced by the Concord Monitor, Sanborn was granted approval by the New Hampshire Lottery Commission for an extension of the deadline for the sale of Concord Casino. While the initial deadline was June 27, it was extended through July 18.

The Commission also confirmed that the extension is in line with a previously issued order that permitted pushing the deadline in case a buyer for the casino is available. Reportedly, there are active talks with a potential future owner for the Concord Casino, but financial details were not disclosed at the time of writing.

The New Hampshire Lottery Commission is permitted to further extend the deadline for the sale of the casino. However, the maximum duration is limited to 90 days.

Sanborn Remains on Track for New Casino Development

Amid Sanborn’s plans to construct a new casino, the sale of Concord Casino marks a major step. This is because if he sells the property within the deadline outlined by the gambling regulator, his gaming license suspension may be lifted. As a result, Sanborn may continue to pursue the proposed casino project on Break O’Day Drive.

Recently, a lawsuit that challenged approval of the development by the city’s Zoning Board was denied. The decision marked a positive development for Sanborn’s project that proposed the establishment of a casino floor along with a restaurant and a microbrewery.

The aforementioned project calls for the development of a hotel and casino too. The gaming floor is expected to be approximately 24,000 square feet, offering a range of gambling activities for nearly 650 guests.

The post Former NH Senator and Casino Owner Retains Focus on New Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Raton, New Mexico, a small town nestled 100 miles northeast of Taos, is looking to revitalize its economy through a unique partnership with the Pueblo of Picuris. 

Raton Eyes Economic Boost with Proposed Casino Partnership with Pueblo of Picuris

The Pueblo of Picuris, one of the state’s smallest Indigenous communities with a population of approximately 300, has caught the attention of Raton officials. Negotiations between the city and the pueblo regarding the potential gaming facility have been ongoing for nearly three years, according to Raton Mayor Neil Segotta, reported the Colorado Public Radio.

The proposed development aims to take advantage of New Mexico’s tribal/state compact, which permits casino-style gaming exclusively on tribal lands. The transfer of the land to the Pueblo of Picuris could pave the way for the construction and operation of the casino complex, offering a potential economic lifeline to Raton.

Former Raton city manager Scott Berry emphasized the project’s potential as a catalyst for economic growth during a recent city commission meeting. He expressed optimism about the positive impact the casino could have on tourism and job creation in the region.

Berry stated that the proposal in front of the commissioners was very much designed as a catalyst for economic development in Raton. He added that it was the most powerful catalyst he knew of out there.

City Manager Reveals Ambitious Plans for Casino Development

Current city manager Richard Mestas echoed Berry’s sentiments, highlighting the expected benefits of the project. Mestas revealed plans for the development to include not only a casino but also the potential for additional amenities such as a hotel or restaurant. He also emphasized the city’s commitment to providing utilities to support the project.

Despite the commission’s approval of the resolution, Mayor Pro-tem Lori Chatterley clarified that it does not constitute a binding agreement. Chatterley emphasized that the resolution serves as a statement of intent to proceed with discussions and does not commit the city to the land transfer at this stage.

Chatterley affirmed that it represented a declaration of intent to proceed. She clarified that it was not a legally binding contract nor did it entail the transfer of property; rather, it served as a gesture of goodwill for future progress.

As plans move forward, a meeting between Pueblo of Picuris leaders and city officials is scheduled for later this month to further explore the potential partnership and its implications for both parties.

The post Indigenous Community Considered for Casino Development in Raton, New Mexico appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Leading iGaming technology company that provides solutions, products, and services to iGaming operators, Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), has appointed Ryan Collinge as the new senior vice president of business development for Platform and Sportsbook.

The news comes in the context of the company’s ongoing efforts to improve its commercial expertise and expand the reach of its fresh and revolutionary X-Suite Platform CoreX, Sportsbook SportX, and Artificial Intelligence-led features DataX and LogicX. 

The state-of-the-art technology leverages the latest in AI and data-based solutions while aiming to provide safe end-to-end features focused on users that are prone to maximize growth opportunities for operators.

Flawless Reputation as a Senior Figure 

Blueprint Gaming and Gauselmann Group’s ex-director has built a flawless reputation in the industry, becoming an easily recognizable senior figure over the course of over two decades of experience. 

GiG anticipates customer relations expert Collinge will transfer his wealth of commercial success onto them, after spending the past seven years playing a critical role in delivering contracts valued at millions of Euro for Blueprint Gaming and the Gauselmann group online and in the retail world.

Collinge significantly grew his reputation after he helped initiate an MBO of Playnation with Palatine PE prior to exiting the investment to Austria-based strategic buyer Novomatic nine years ago, in 2015. 

From his new position of senior vice president of business development for Platform and Sportsbook, Collinge is expected to assist GiG’s highly ambitious strategic commercial initiatives, as highlighted by chief business officer Andrew Cochrane. 

Using a smart combination of excellent products, the highest levels of service in the industry, and the brightest and best talent in the industry, GiG plans to strengthen its leading position while extending its worldwide footprint and fostering sustained growth. 

GiG will attend the much-anticipated ICE London 2024 held between February 6-8 where it will showcase its complete X-Suite product range on Stand N9-140 at ExCel London.

Commenting on his appointment, Collinge described the opportunity to join GiG as “too exciting” to pass up, in the context of the giant growth potential of the business. 

He also expressed his excitement regarding the new X-Suite of products and GiG’s plans for the future, adding they will join ICE and walk into the new year “full of ambition and anticipation for what we can achieve together.”

“Another Fantastic Addition” to the Senior Team 

Chief executive officer for Platform and Sportsbook at GiG, Richard Carter, spoke about the excellent hires that they have made over the past few months, calling Collinge “another fantastic addition” to their senior team. 

Carter added the new SVP’s appointment “will further help propel GiG forward to significantly scale revenue and acquire accomplished new partners.”

The CEO also praised Collinge’s exquisite reputation and solid background in the iGaming world while expressing certainty regarding the way his “high-level knowledge of the industry and strategic approach” will prove to be invaluable assets to the company during the fast growth period. 

At the same time, the chief business officer for Platform and Sportsbook at GiG, Andrew Cochrane, described Collinge’s arrival as one that will provide “a fantastic boost” to their efforts to develop the business in the context of the important escalation in interest across all verticals since the successful launch of the X-Suite. 

Cochrane also acknowledged Collinge’s expertise and proven track record at attracting commercial successes which he called “undeniably impressive,” explaining his appointment will reaffirm their capacity to attract some of the best talents in the industry.

In December, GiG completed a deal with KaFe Rocks as part of its plans to conquer the casino affiliate sector.

The post GiG Appoints Ryan Collinge as SVP of Business Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Amidst growing concerns over Comstock Companies‘ push to establish a casino on Metro’s Silver Line outside the Capital Beltway in Fairfax County, residents of Reston are urging state lawmakers to reject any legislation supporting the controversial project.

Activists Challenge Casino Plans, Cite Deviation from Reston’s Planning Principles

On January 6, activists from NoRestonCasino.org, a group opposing the casino plans, placed signs outside the Fairfax County Government Center, calling attention to what they believe is a deviation from Reston’s planning principles, reported local media outlet Patch. 

The opposition argues that the Reston Comprehensive Plan, as well as the stance of Fairfax County Supervisor Walter Alcorn, does not align with the proposed casino development.

Lynne Mulston, president of the Reston Citizens Association, emphasized that, under current Virginia law, no legislation permits such development in Reston. 

Mulston stated that the recent endeavors of a major developer to garner favor with Virginia State Senators Surovell and Marsden, along with other elected representatives, to influence legislative action, suggest a disregard for the social, economic, infrastructure, and other impacts on the Reston community.

During the Public Hearing for Fairfax Delegation to the General Assembly, Jennifer Jushchuk, representing Save Our Sunrise, voiced concerns about the proximity of the proposed casino to residential areas, emphasizing the family-oriented nature of the Sunrise Valley Neighborhood in Reston. 

She mentioned that there is a single developer, Comstock, aiming to establish a casino and that they have significant investments in the properties surrounding the Wiehle Reston-East metro station, rather than in Tysons Corner.

Activists Highlight Environmental and Socio-Economic Concerns

Activists argue that the proposed casino contradicts the recently approved Reston Master Plan, which aimed to promote growth in key market sectors such as technology and higher education. 

Mac Cummins, the CEO of RA, expressed that a casino would go against and be incompatible with the goals outlined in the recently adopted plan, putting at risk the extensive community planning efforts made in Reston over the years.

Health concerns were also raised during the public hearing, with Michelle Widmann Kimmel of Healthy Reston highlighting potential environmental toxicity and socio-economic problems associated with casino developments. Kimmel urged legislators to consider the lack of empirical research supporting claims of economic benefits from casinos.

State Senator Dave Marsden and Delegate Wren Williams introduced bills in 2023, which were later withdrawn, and now plan to reintroduce an expanded referendum bill in the upcoming legislative session.

Residents hope that their collective voice echoed through various community groups and elected officials, will deter the state legislature from endorsing a casino that they deem unwanted and unnecessary for the vibrant community of Reston.

The post Residents Rally Against Proposed Casino Development in Reston, Virginia appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Leading provider of player account management (PAM) platform services for sportsbook and iGaming operators, Soft2Bet, has appointed Martin Collins as its Chief Business Development Officer. Collins brings a wealth of experience in the iGaming sector and will drive Soft2Bet’s growth and expansion in the global B2B betting and gaming markets, helping the company stand out amidst harsh competition.

Collins Is a Perfect Fit for This Demanding Position

Soft2Bet, headquartered in Santa Venera, Malta, has a strong presence in European regulated markets and aims to grow its footprint in the B2B segment of the global betting and gaming industry. The company has achieved considerable momentum, finalizing several high-profile partnerships to strengthen its position in its most profitable jurisdictions.

The appointment of Martin Collins as Chief Business Development Officer underscores Soft2Bet’s commitment to achieving its growth plans. The new C-level addition has an impressive track record in the iGaming industry, making him an ideal candidate for this leadership role. Collins was excited to begin, noting that the company was in the perfect position to capitalize on its success.

I believe Soft2bet can be a unique and flexible offering to many major operators in the market, consistently working with their customers to help them achieve their goals.

Martin Collins, Soft2bet Chief Business Development Officer

Collins previously worked as Director of Sales and Business Development at Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), another Malta-based betting and gaming solution provider. His two decades of relevant experience have fostered a passion and drive to help organizations flourish. Collins’ strategic skills should be invaluable for Soft2bet as he helps the company identify new business opportunities and pursue further growth.

The Company Will Use His Talents to Pursue New Heights

Soft2bet bolsters its leadership team during a pivotal moment as it recently obtained operating licenses for several high-profile European markets like Greece and Romania. Expanding into these new jurisdictions provides the leading supplier with unparalleled opportunities to bring value to operators, accelerating their growth. Soft2bet’s continued investments in its software and technology should allow it to find traction in these markets.

Collins’ appointment will also be instrumental in developing existing markets like Italy. Soft2bet recently secured a stable foothold in the region, giving it direct access to its thriving gambling industry. Soft2Bet CEO Uri Poliavich was enthusiastic about the new appointment, hoping the new CBDO would help the company maintain its impressive momentum.

We’re happy to welcome Martin to Soft2Bet and are looking forward to his vast experience and deep knowledge of our sector getting us to the next level!

Uri Poliavich, Soft2Bet CEO

By onboarding Martin Collins as Chief Business Development Officer, Soft2Bet positions itself for continued growth and success in the international B2B betting and gaming markets. The company’s customer-centric approach and unrelenting focus on innovation allow it to consistently iterate and improve its offering, paving the way for new strategic partnerships and enduring growth.

The post Soft2Bet Onboards Martin Collins as Chief Business Development Officer appeared first on Keno Wizard.

The provider of The Open Gaming Architecture backend gaming platform, Black Cow Technology, announced a new senior-level appointment. The company revealed Thursday it strengthened its C-suite with the appointment of Sarah Agostini to the role of head of business development. The recent hire comes amid a busy period for the company as it sees significant growth and strong demand for its suite of solutions.

In her new role, Agostini will oversee important processes and help build a structured sales pipeline that will include new and existing opportunities. This pipeline would feature game developers, aggregators, as well as operators, among other companies that can benefit from Black Cow’s innovative technology.

Additionally, as head of business development, she will help businesses better understand how The Open Gaming Architecture can bring benefits. Ultimately, Agostini will play a key role in the expansion of Black Cow’s portfolio of business clients and help the company expand its technology among suppliers and operators alike.

The recent senior-level appointment isn’t a surprise, considering Agostini’s extensive experience and knowledge. Throughout her professional career, she was able to accumulate significant experience in investments and advertising, as well as precision analytical equipment. As a part of the C-suite at Black Cow, she will also engage with the company’s PR team and assist with product education.

Agostini Is Thrilled to Join Black Cow Technology

Sharing her excitement, Agostini said that she will be excited to help develop the company’s structured sales pipeline. At the same time, she acknowledged she will provide valuable feedback to Black Cow’s teams and help more suppliers and operators benefit from the company’s leading solutions.

“It’s an honor to join Black Cow and to be responsible for structuring its sales pipeline, deliver valuable feedback to the wider team and connect with more operators and suppliers that could benefit from our incredible suite of solutions.“

Sarah Agostini, head of business development at Black Cow Technology

Additionally, Agostini pointed out that she finds the challenge exciting and looks forward to helping Black Cow exceed its targets. In conclusion, the company’s new head of business development pointed out: “Black Cow’s solutions really do sit at the cutting edge and I can ensure more businesses than ever before understand how Black Cow can help them to succeed.”

“I am thrilled to welcome Sarah to the team as our Head of Business Development.“

Max Francis, CEO at Black Cow Technology

Max Francis, Black Cow’s CEO, welcomed Agostini to the senior-level team of the company. He spoke about her exceptional track record in business development and sales while highlighting her talent.

Francis said that Agostini makes the perfect fit for the role at Black Cow and predicted that the company will exceed its targets with her invaluable guidance. Finally, he said that Black Cow is looking forward to the success the new collaboration will bring.

The post Black Cow Picks Sarah Agostini for Head of Business Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Leading gaming testing and certification company BMM Testlabs announced a new high-profile appointment as Mike Van Ermen becomes VP of Business Development at its Las Vegas headquarters. He will utilize his extensive experience and deep gaming industry knowledge to bolster North American growth and generate enduring success.

The New VP Boasts In-Depth Industry Knowledge

Van Ermen’s substantial strategic business development, sales, and management experience with prominent gaming organizations gives him a unique outlook on the gambling industry, helping him make informed strategic decisions. His process-driven approach and insistence on hands-on involvement make him the perfect choice for such a demanding position.

The new VP held leadership roles in high-profile venues like Golden Gate Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, sportsbooks like Circa Sports, and leading suppliers like FSB Technology. BMM Testlabs North America executive VP Travis Foley noted that Ermen’s extensive portfolio gave him invaluable insight into the most recent industry trends, perfectly aligning with the company’s expansion ambitions.

(Mike’s) extensive leadership experience… in the sportsbook, igaming, hospitality, and technology fields… will generate great success for our North American business development team.

Travis Foley, BMM Testlabs North America executive VP

In his new role, Van Ermen will focus on driving business growth initiatives at BMM Testlabs. His primary focus will be identifying expansion opportunities, cultivating strategic partnerships, and growing the company’s client base. By leveraging his knowledge and passion for the industry, the new VP aims to enhance the company’s position as a trusted and innovative gaming testing and certification service provider.

BMM Testlabs Strengthens Its Leadership

Van Ermen’s appointment is the latest in a series of high-level reshuffles at BMM Testlabs. The company invested significant efforts in attracting top talent, bolstering its management team to answer evolving market challenges. 2023 saw BMM Testlabs make changes to its SVP roster for the Australia and EURSAM regions, ensuring all its global teams have access to outstanding leadership.

With the rapid advancement of technology and the evolving regulatory landscape, there is an increasing demand for comprehensive testing and certification services. Van Ermen’s experience and industry insights in the US market will be instrumental in identifying new growth verticals. The new VP was excited about the opportunity, promising to give the new position his all.

I am committed to contributing my sportsbook operator and vendor knowledge toward new ventures and providing elevated service levels to our partners at BMM.

Mike Van Ermen, BMM Testlabs VP of Business Development

As BMM Testlabs continues to expand its services and explore new opportunities, Van Ermen’s expertise will be invaluable in shaping the company’s growth strategy and identifying emerging trends and technologies. His leadership will enable BMM Testlabs to continue to meet the evolving needs of its clients and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The post BMM Testlabs Welcomes Its New VP of Business Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Theresa Birtalan recently worked as a senior account executive in Minnesota and also did various career stints at MetLife Insurance, Mutual of Omaha, M3 Technology Solutions, and others. Her career experience puts her in an excellent position to be part of Table Trac’s continued success story.

Tribal Gaming Is Gathering Momentum in the US

Commenting on her appointment, Table Trac president Chad Hoehne said that he was excited about the opportunity to welcome someone with her experience at a time when the company is keen to expand its presence in Native American gaming.

Theresa Birtalan stands by our brand and makes us proud when we present our solid product line to the markets where Native American gaming is thriving.

Table Trac president Chad Hoehne

Birtalan is not an outside hire either as she has been working with the company in various capacities since 2012, and her arrival in the new and more permanent post was also welcomed by Jeff Baldi, company SVP of commercial strategy, who said that Birtalan has proven herself already and her new position would allow it to scale Table Trac’s offer further.

“It’s been an honor getting to know and work with her. We are excited to see Theresa continue succeeding in this new role,” Baldi explained. Birtalan attended Syracuse University and studied International Business. She has more than 25 years of experience working in and around the gaming industry and providing financial services and insurance.

Table Trac Expands Team to Bolster Growth

Table Trac itself is a company founded in 1995 which specializes in the development of casino information and management systems. Table Trac’s products directly impact partner casinos’ overall results and performance. The company has been gathering momentum in both the commercial and tribal gaming sectors over the past 20 years.

The company has been very keen on bringing more top talent in order to strengthen its leadership team and guide the overall performance towards better markers. A recent hire included the bringing of Thomas Florio to help boost the company’s growth as well as Jeff Baldi, another prominent and seasoned expert, who is helping with Table Trac’s sales and marketing strategies.

The post Table Trac Promotes Theresa Birtalan as Head of New Business Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Hospitality and gaming operator Hard Rock International (HRI) announced the appointment of Ragheb “Raj” Dajani as its new Senior Vice President of Development.

Help HRI Cement Position in Luxury Hospitality

The appointment of Dajani as SVP of Development will bring on board HRI an accomplished real estate professional with more than 30 years of real estate development experience gained across planning, design and construction of integrated resorts, including luxury residential, hospitality and casino properties.

Commenting on the new appointment, Joe Emanuele, Chief Design and Development Officer at HRI, was excited to see Dajani join the company’s Real Estate Development team in times during which HRI is continuing “to further cement the Hard Rock brand as a pillar in the global luxury hospitality space.”

On Dajani’s future impact, Emanuele added that “his extensive experience in bringing top-of-the-line luxury integrated resort concepts to life makes [him] an invaluable addition to the Hard Rock team.”

As SVP of Development for HRI, Dajani will be responsible for new real estate development prospects, setting up real estate development strategy direction and overseeing the company’s growth plans and objectives, and will be reporting directly to Emanuele.

Experience in Building Luxury Towers and Resorts

In his most recent role as the Head of Planning for gaming and hospitality operator Galaxy Entertainment Group, Dajani was instrumental in establishing a development operation in Tokyo to pursue a casino license for the development and operation of a multi-billion integrated resort.

During his stay with top hospitality firm, Kerzner International, Dajani helped develop several luxury towers – The Atlantis Resort and Casino in the Bahamas, Morocco and Dubai – as well as several One&Only hotels and resorts in the Bahamas, Mexico and the Mohegan Sun Resort in Connecticut.

Dajani, whose career began in the US luxury residential sector where he engaged in bidding and execution of general contracting work, was also central in planning and implementing a revitalizing development program for Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, under Brookfield Hospitality Management.

With venues in over 70 countries and spanning 290 locations featuring owned, licensed or managed hotels, casinos, rock shops, live performance venues, and cafes, HRI is one of the world’s most recognized companies.

One of its recent development projects, Rocksino by Hard Rock Deadwood in South Dakota, featuring a boutique hotel, a casino, a full-service restaurant, and a bar, is set to open its doors to the public in August this year.

The post Hard Rock International Appoints Dajani as SVP of Development appeared first on Keno Wizard.