Opening Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/opening/ The Ultimate Keno Destination for Odds, Tips & Tricks Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:13:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://i0.wp.com/kenowizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-keno-wizard-icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Opening Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/opening/ 32 32 230792155 Mohegan INSPIRE Marks Milestone in Global Expansion with Grand Opening https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/08/mohegan-inspire-marks-milestone-in-global-expansion-with-grand-opening/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/08/mohegan-inspire-marks-milestone-in-global-expansion-with-grand-opening/#respond Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:13:10 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/08/mohegan-inspire-marks-milestone-in-global-expansion-with-grand-opening/ Mohegan INSPIRE, a sprawling integrated resort casino nestled adjacent to South Korea‘s bustling Incheon International Airport, unveiled the grand opening of its first phase on March 5, 2024. This inaugural phase, a testament to Mohegan‘s global expansion, has been in the works for years and comes with a hefty price tag of $1.6 billion. Mohegan [...]

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Mohegan INSPIRE, a sprawling integrated resort casino nestled adjacent to South Korea‘s bustling Incheon International Airport, unveiled the grand opening of its first phase on March 5, 2024. This inaugural phase, a testament to Mohegan‘s global expansion, has been in the works for years and comes with a hefty price tag of $1.6 billion.

Mohegan INSPIRE’s Grand Opening: Bridging Heritage with South Korean Culture

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by over 500 distinguished guests, marked a significant milestone not only for Mohegan but also for South Korea’s entertainment and tourism landscape. Among the attendees were leaders and cultural representatives of the Mohegan Tribe, emphasizing the historic partnership forged between the Tribe and the vibrant country of South Korea.

James Gessner Jr., chairman of the Mohegan Tribal Council, expressed his excitement during the ceremony: “The grand opening of INSPIRE is a momentous occasion for Mohegan, making both a historic partnership for our Tribe and elevating our global network of resorts to unprecedented heights. I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to South Korean government for the opportunity to bring our vision to life in such a vibrant country.”

The grand opening festivities showcased the fusion of Mohegan heritage and South Korean culture, offering guests a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting at INSPIRE. From traditional Mohegan smudge ceremonies to captivating performances by Unity of Nations, a Mohegan drum group, and enchanting acts by Korean artists, the event left an indelible impression on all attendees.

Mohegan INSPIRE’s Phase One Sets New Standards in Entertainment

Ray Pineault, president and CEO of Mohegan, highlighted the ethos underlying INSPIRE’s development, emphasizing principles of hospitality, collaboration, and sustainability. 

Pineault further emphasized that Mohegan INSPIRE was poised to become a landmark destination and a catalyst for tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchanges, enhancing the region’s allure to visitors from across the globe.

Phase one of INSPIRE boasts a plethora of amenities designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From a sprawling five-star hotel with over 1,200 rooms to the INSPIRE Arena, capable of hosting up to 15,000 guests, the resort offers a multifaceted experience. 

Guests can immerse themselves in the surreal ambiance of Aurora, an indoor street enveloped in high-resolution LED displays, or indulge in culinary delights at renowned establishments like Michael Jordan’s Steak House.

Looking ahead, INSPIRE is poised to introduce additional attractions, including an on-site mall with branded shops and restaurants, an indoor food court, and Discovery Park, an outdoor entertainment space. Plans for future expansion phases include an indoor walkway to Incheon International Airport and the addition of a Paramount Studios amusement park, solidifying INSPIRE’s status as a premier destination for entertainment and leisure.

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Northville Downs to Close Current Location, Plans Opening of New Venue https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/19/northville-downs-to-close-current-location-plans-opening-of-new-venue/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/19/northville-downs-to-close-current-location-plans-opening-of-new-venue/#respond Fri, 19 Jan 2024 13:39:29 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/19/northville-downs-to-close-current-location-plans-opening-of-new-venue/ After operating for 80 years, Northville Downs, Michigan’s last horse racing track, will discontinue its operations at its current location as of early next month. Details released by the gambling regulator in the state, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), reveal that the final race for Northville Downs at its current location at 301 S. [...]

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After operating for 80 years, Northville Downs, Michigan’s last horse racing track, will discontinue its operations at its current location as of early next month. Details released by the gambling regulator in the state, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), reveal that the final race for Northville Downs at its current location at 301 S. Center St. in Northville is scheduled for Saturday, February 3, 2024.

The closure is related to a $250 million redevelopment of the racecourse. Previously, Northville Downs bought some 128 acres of land to use for building its new harness racing facility. The aforementioned piece of land is located on the corner of Five Mile and Ridge roads in Plymouth Township. According to the MGCB, the building of the new facility is subject to approval from the township board.

Considering the upcoming closure, bettors are no longer going to be able to place simulcast wagers in person at the current Northville Downs location starting from Monday, February 5, 2024. Still, the racetrack confirmed that it plans to reintroduce simulcast wagering at its new location. On the other hand, February 10, 2024, marks the last day patrons will be able to cash out winning wagers at Northville Downs. After this date, horse racing patrons can mail their winning tickets to Northville Downs, 47526 Clipper St., PO Box 701220, Plymouth, MI 48170, according to the MGCB.

Northville Downs, the last horse racing track in Michigan, will soon cease operations at its current location at 301 S. Center St. in Northville after 80 years of providing excitement and entertainment to avid horse racing enthusiasts. The final race is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024,

reads a statement released by the MGCB

Michigan to Witness the Next Chapter of Horse Racing

Henry Williams, MGCB’s executive director, thanked all patrons at Northville Downs who enjoyed race days and visited the venue frequently. “We appreciate the support of those who have kept Northville Downs going for 80 years and look forward to the next chapter of horse racing in Michigan at a new location,” he added.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board expresses our deepest gratitude to all of the Northville Downs patrons who have made each race day memorable and thrilling.

Henry Williams, executive director at the MGCB

While Northville Downs will cease to operate at its current location in preparation for its new racetrack, fans of horse racing will be able to continue placing wagers via their mobile devices without interruptions. Patrons across Michigan can access licensed providers in the state, including FanDuel Racing, Xpressbet, NYRA Bets or Churchill Downs/Twin Spires to place wagers on popular events such as the Kentucky Derby, among others.

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Hard Rock to Hire 400 People Ahead of Rockford Casino Opening https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/22/hard-rock-to-hire-400-people-ahead-of-rockford-casino-opening/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/22/hard-rock-to-hire-400-people-ahead-of-rockford-casino-opening/#respond Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:31:57 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/22/hard-rock-to-hire-400-people-ahead-of-rockford-casino-opening/ Hard Rock prepares for the launch of its new Rockford property in August and announced it plans to hire 400 more people. As reported by the Rock River Current, an Illinois and Wisconsin-focused news outlet, Hard Rock Casino Rockford has many available management positions in food and beverage service, casino operations, transportation, retail, warehouse and [...]

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Hard Rock prepares for the launch of its new Rockford property in August and announced it plans to hire 400 more people.

As reported by the Rock River Current, an Illinois and Wisconsin-focused news outlet, Hard Rock Casino Rockford has many available management positions in food and beverage service, casino operations, transportation, retail, warehouse and other key areas of its operation. The company offers supervisor salaries of over $50,000 a year and manager salaries of over $70,000 a year.

In addition, a multitude of positions in casino operators are available. The company is looking for drivers, cashiers, security personnel, technicians and dealers, among others, offering starting pay of $18 an hour for non-tipped workers and $10-16 an hour for tipped staff.

A variety of other employees, such as chefs, cooks, bartenders, servers and hosts, among others, are also needed.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is preparing to host workforce readiness workshops next year and run hiring events in the summer of 2024. Management positions will be officially posted in March. Supervisor positions, on the other hand, will be posted in April. Other job opportunities will become available in May.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Wants to Hire “Rock Stars”

Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s president, Geno Iafrate, commented on the company’s workforce needs, saying that “the thing about the Hard Rock is it’s not just about filling the position, it’s about putting rock stars in the position.”

Iafrate admitted that hiring 400 people is no easy task, which is why it is never too early to start reaching out to the community. Through community connection events, the company will get the opportunity to meet the right people and find the exact “rock stars” it is looking for.

We want world-class hospitality folks. That doesn’t mean you have to have 25 years of hospitality experience. You have to have the right heart. You have to have a servant’s heart to work in the entertainment and in the hospitality space. We’ll teach you everything else.

Geno Iafrate, president, Hard Rock Casino Rockford

Hard Rock is already employing 350 people at its A Hard Rock Opening Act property, a temporary venue where people can play before work on the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford is complete. The permanent casino will thus have a total of 750 employees.

The final property will sport a spectacular 65,000 square feet gaming area that will be packed with 1,300 slots, 44 live gaming tables, 6 poker tables and a sportsbook. In addition to that, Hard Rock Casino Rockford will have a variety of food and beverage locations, as well as a 1,600-seat entertainment hall.

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Fontainebleau Las Vegas Prepares for Grand Opening with Key Executive Hires https://kenowizard.com/2023/10/17/fontainebleau-las-vegas-prepares-for-grand-opening-with-key-executive-hires/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/10/17/fontainebleau-las-vegas-prepares-for-grand-opening-with-key-executive-hires/#respond Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:04:35 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/10/17/fontainebleau-las-vegas-prepares-for-grand-opening-with-key-executive-hires/ In anticipation of its grand opening on December 13, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the dazzling resort nestled on the northern stretch of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, has announced pivotal additions to its leadership team.  Fontainebleau Las Vegas Welcomes New CFO and CAO John Helderman, a distinguished professional with 25 years of experience in gaming, finance, [...]

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In anticipation of its grand opening on December 13, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the dazzling resort nestled on the northern stretch of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, has announced pivotal additions to its leadership team

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Welcomes New CFO and CAO

John Helderman, a distinguished professional with 25 years of experience in gaming, finance, and accounting, has been appointed chief financial officer of the resort. Accompanying him in the top ranks is Stacie Michaels, who has been promoted from general counsel to chief administrative officer, expanding her responsibilities to encompass legal, risk management, internal audit, compliance, and workers’ compensation functions within the organization.

Mark Tricano, President of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, expressed his confidence in the newly appointed executives, stating: “As we near our global debut, we are developing a successful culture under the guidance and perspective of seasoned leaders in gaming and beyond.” 

He emphasized the invaluable expertise that Helderman and Michaels bring to the resort. Their deep understanding of the Las Vegas market and their exceptional leadership skills align seamlessly with the vision of Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the highly anticipated 67-story casino resort on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, is to open its doors to the public on Wednesday, December 13. Despite facing delays due to economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, the resort, acquired by Fontainebleau Development and Koch Industries in 2021, secured a $2.2 billion loan last year, ensuring the completion of the ambitious project. 

Michaels and Helderman Elevate Resort’s Leadership

Having previously served as chief financial officer for The Brennan Entities, a prominent Las Vegas-based financial services operator, and in a similar capacity for Bluberi Gaming, a leading slot company, John Helderman brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His track record also includes stints as vice president of finance for multiple Las Vegas Strip resorts. Helderman is a graduate of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2022.

Stacie Michaels, a legal luminary, transitioned into her elevated role at Fontainebleau Las Vegas after a decade-long tenure in various capacities within the Las Vegas gaming and hospitality industries. Michaels, a graduate of New York Law School, earned recognition as one of Vegas Inc.’s “40 Under 40” in 2017. Apart from her professional achievements, she actively contributes to the community, serving on the board of trustees for Discovery Children’s Museum and the Meadows School.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas recently strengthened its senior-level team. Mark Tricano, a veteran with extensive experience in hospitality, gaming, and finance, was appointed as the resort’s president. Michelle Reda, another industry expert with over two decades of experience, took on the role of chief casino marketing officer, while Kimberly Virtuoso, who contributed significantly to the resort’s human resources strategy, was promoted to senior vice president of people. 

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Durango Casino & Resort Receives 25,000 Job Applications Ahead of Opening https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/23/durango-casino-resort-receives-25000-job-applications-ahead-of-opening/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/23/durango-casino-resort-receives-25000-job-applications-ahead-of-opening/#respond Sat, 23 Sep 2023 02:46:35 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/23/durango-casino-resort-receives-25000-job-applications-ahead-of-opening/ The project, which is due to open on November 20, 2023, and received a formal go-ahead from the Nevada Gaming Commission earlier this week, will be one of the biggest developments in the Silver State and bolster the local job market as well as create more opportunities for holidaymakers to enjoy gambling and relaxation. Hiring [...]

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The project, which is due to open on November 20, 2023, and received a formal go-ahead from the Nevada Gaming Commission earlier this week, will be one of the biggest developments in the Silver State and bolster the local job market as well as create more opportunities for holidaymakers to enjoy gambling and relaxation.

Hiring Going according to Plan at Durango Casino & Resort

The resort is said to be planning to employ 1,450 people and have an additional 400-500 tenant partners, putting the total new jobs number at 2,000, an important economic boon to the local economy. There have so far been 25,000 job applications sent to the Durango Casino & Resort.

The hiring process has so far been going well enough, as the property has already hired 55% of its needed workforce. A “tremendous number of people” will also be hired over the next four to six weeks, estimates Durango general manager David Horn.

The resort will also come with 28 suites and 209 hotel rooms. As to the gaming space, there will be 83,000 square feet of gaming floor, along with 63 table games, a high-limit gaming salon, and 2,300 slot machines.

The Durango will focus mostly on catering to local residents and visitors, but international visitors could also be on the menu. There is no clear strategy as of right now, other than the Durango will try to stand out to all tourists interested in visiting the Silver State.

The Nevada Gaming Commission hailed the fact that Durango has received 25,000 job applications and was now sifting through them to ensure that all candidates get a fair chance. This comes at a time when Red Rock Resort & Station Casinos and the Culinary Union have been at each other’s throats over a fight to unionize at the property.

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Fontainebleau Las Vegas Sets Sights on December Grand Opening https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/18/fontainebleau-las-vegas-sets-sights-on-december-grand-opening/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/18/fontainebleau-las-vegas-sets-sights-on-december-grand-opening/#respond Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:22:27 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/18/fontainebleau-las-vegas-sets-sights-on-december-grand-opening/ The long-anticipated opening date for Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the towering 67-story casino resort on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, might have just been revealed. While Fontainebleau has yet to officially announce the date, a recent report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal suggests that Wednesday, December 13, is the day when the resort will unlock its [...]

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The long-anticipated opening date for Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the towering 67-story casino resort on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, might have just been revealed. While Fontainebleau has yet to officially announce the date, a recent report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal suggests that Wednesday, December 13, is the day when the resort will unlock its doors to the public.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Overcomes Delays for December Debut

The Fontainebleau Las Vegas, known for its distinct blue tower, will be the first new casino resort to grace the Las Vegas Strip since Resorts World‘s debut back in June 2021.

Standing tall as the tallest building in Nevada, the Fontainebleau will house a staggering 3,644 hotel rooms, making it a prominent addition to the Las Vegas skyline. Additionally, it boasts over half a million square feet of convention and meeting space, with its primary exhibition area sprawling over 105,200 square feet. It’s a testament to the resort’s grandeur, as it rises from the ashes of the demolished El Rancho Hotel and Casino site.

The journey to this grand opening has been fraught with challenges. Initially announced in May 2005 with a projected opening in 2008, the Fontainebleau faced setbacks due to the Great Recession and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Koch Industries’ real estate investment arm, in collaboration with Miami real estate developer Jeffrey Soffer’s Fontainebleau Development, acquired the towering structure in 2021, giving new life to the iconic project.

In December last year, Fontainebleau Las Vegas secured a $2.2 billion loan from various banks and investors, ensuring the completion of its long-delayed project, with plans to open in 2023.

While in June this year, Fontainebleau Las Vegas made strategic senior-level appointments to bolster its leadership team ahead of its December opening, with Mark Tricano becoming the president, Michelle Reda taking the role of chief casino marketing officer, and Kimberly Virtuoso being promoted to senior vice president of people. 

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Unveils Extravagant Casino, Dining, and Entertainment Options

Fontainebleau Las Vegas will offer a vertically integrated casino experience, much like the Cosmopolitan, with its gaming area occupying the ground floor and the second and third floors dedicated to retail and dining. The casino floor is set to feature an array of 1,300 slot machines, including multigame options with video poker, keno, and blackjack, as well as 127 table games offering blackjack and three-card poker. Enthusiasts can also look forward to a spacious sportsbook spanning.

The resort plans to pamper visitors with 90,000 square feet of high-end retail space, though specific retailers are yet to be announced. In the culinary department, Fontainebleau aims to delight with 27 upscale dining options, including the American restaurant Vida and Southeast Asian cuisine at Komodo, among others.

Entertainment seekers will be spoiled for choice with three distinct venues – a day club, a nightclub named LIV, and a massive 3,800-capacity theatre, all curated by Miami-based Groot Hospitality and nightlife guru David Grutman. Fontainebleau has already managed to lure superstar DJs Tiesto and Zedd away from Resorts World’s Zouk Group, setting the stage for thrilling nights on the Strip.

High above, the resort’s rooftop pool deck will offer seven different pool experiences sprawled across six acres, providing a luxurious retreat for guests.

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Mohegan Inspire Complements $5 Billion Resort Opening with Key Leadership Changes https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/12/mohegan-inspire-complements-5-billion-resort-opening-with-key-leadership-changes/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/12/mohegan-inspire-complements-5-billion-resort-opening-with-key-leadership-changes/#respond Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:36:34 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/09/12/mohegan-inspire-complements-5-billion-resort-opening-with-key-leadership-changes/ Mohegan Inspire, a groundbreaking resort project by the Mohegan Tribe, is set to redefine luxury and entertainment in Incheon, South Korea. As the $5 billion project approaches its eagerly awaited opening, it has unveiled an updated leadership team, bringing a wealth of experience to ensure the success of this ambitious venture. Experienced Leadership Is Vital [...]

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Mohegan Inspire, a groundbreaking resort project by the Mohegan Tribe, is set to redefine luxury and entertainment in Incheon, South Korea. As the $5 billion project approaches its eagerly awaited opening, it has unveiled an updated leadership team, bringing a wealth of experience to ensure the success of this ambitious venture.

Experienced Leadership Is Vital for Success

The Mohegan Tribe, renowned for its world-class gaming and entertainment destinations like Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and Mohegan, Pennsylvania, embarked on the Mohegan Inspire project in February 2016. This exceptional resort is strategically located at the Incheon International Airport in South Korea, promising a blend of luxury, entertainment, and convenience.

Managing such a high-profile venue requires exceptional talent familiar with local challenges and opportunities. Chen Si’s appointment as President leverages his extensive experience in the gaming and hospitality industry. Si was optimistic regarding the project, vowing to steer Mohegan toward a future filled with inspiration and growth.

As we begin this next venture for the Mohegan brand in South Korea, I am motivated by the promise of innovation, rich cultural exchange, and strengthened partnerships.

Chen Si, Mohegan Inspire President

The new President’s impressive track record includes leadership positions in industry giants like Sands China and Las Vegas Sands. His work as EVP and Head of Casino & Hotel at Macau Legend Development further bolsters his resume, showcasing an in-depth understanding of the gaming and hospitality sectors.

Mohegan Inspire Is Poised to Take South Korea by Storm

Joining Si is Wade Howk, a seasoned executive in the entertainment and leisure industry, who takes on the role of COO at Mohegan Inspire. Howk served as the CFO for Hard Rock Cincinnati and held the post of Corporate VP of Strategy at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, leveraging his expertise in financial strategy and operational excellence to drive lasting growth.

Howk was also excited to assume his new position and join one of 2023’s top global workplaces. He promised to help the brand retain its focus on excellence and visionary leadership, ensuring guests would enjoy an unparalleled experience in all Mohegan properties regardless of region.

Mohegan Inspire has always stood for innovation, passion, and resilience.

Wade Howk, Mohegan Inspire COO 

As Mohegan Inspire prepares to take center stage as one of South Korea’s premier luxury resorts and entertainment destinations, the new leadership appointments underscore the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The resort plans to open its doors before 2024, featuring a blend of world-class amenities that promise to redefine the region’s hospitality industry.

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MERKUR Celebrates the Opening of Its First Casino in the UK https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/08/merkur-celebrates-the-opening-of-its-first-casino-in-the-uk/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/08/merkur-celebrates-the-opening-of-its-first-casino-in-the-uk/#respond Sat, 08 Jul 2023 08:03:14 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/08/merkur-celebrates-the-opening-of-its-first-casino-in-the-uk/ MERKUR Casino has opened its first property in the United Kingdom, marking an important milestone for the company. The new casino is located in the Scottish city of Aberdeen and will provide a lot of entertainment to local players. The casino was officially opened by Irina Ruf, MERKUR Casino’s chief executive officer. She was accompanied [...]

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MERKUR Casino has opened its first property in the United Kingdom, marking an important milestone for the company. The new casino is located in the Scottish city of Aberdeen and will provide a lot of entertainment to local players.

The casino was officially opened by Irina Ruf, MERKUR Casino’s chief executive officer. She was accompanied at the event by MERKUR UK general manager Sascha Blodau and the COO of MERKUR Casino UK, Mark Schertle.

In addition to the high-profile MERKUR representatives, the grand opening was attended by local businesspeople, dignitaries and gambling industry workers. The opening also welcomed the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, a Celtic rock band from Scotland. The world-class singer Chris Ashton also attended the opening of the MERKUR Casino Aberdeen.

Casino guests can expect to find a variety of gaming tables and machines. The MERKUR Casino Aberdeen boasts four tables for roulette, two tables for blackjack, a table for three card poker and two electronic roulettes. In addition, the venue has a terminal that comprises 20 of the latest B1 Jackpot Machines from leading suppliers in a single machine.

Aberdeen Is a Perfect Location for MERKUR Casino’s Foray into the UK

Irina Ruf commented on the opening, saying that the opening of MERKUR’s first casino in the United Kingdom marks a new chapter for the company. She noted that MERKUR is known for its dedication to excellence. The company already provides bingo and slots to companies on the UK’s high streets. However, MERKUR will now be able to take things a step further and offer its best-in-class casino experiences to local players.

Ruf said that purchasing a license in Aberdeen was a no-brainer for her team and that the move represents a “natural progression” for the company.

When the opportunity arose to purchase a license in Aberdeen it was a natural progression to move into the sector and launch our first UK casino.

Irina Ruf, CEO, MERKUR Casino

According to CEO Ruf, Aberdeen is the perfect location for MERKUR’s first casino in the United Kingdom. She described the city as one with a thriving night-time economy and a Purple Flag status that attests to the safety and vibrancy of its streets at night.

We hope to add to that vibrancy with best-in-breed gaming entertainment and promote the safety and well-being of visitors and residents alike.

Irina Ruf, CEO, MERKUR Casino

Last year, Merkur eSolutions, a B2B division of the Gauselmann Group, opened a new office in Malta.

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Rhode Island seems well on its way to opening online casinos on January 1 https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/12/rhode-island-seems-well-on-its-way-to-opening-online-casinos-on-january-1/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/12/rhode-island-seems-well-on-its-way-to-opening-online-casinos-on-january-1/#respond Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:30:15 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/12/rhode-island-seems-well-on-its-way-to-opening-online-casinos-on-january-1/ Lawmakers in the Rhode Island Senate passed a bill allowing the state to open one or more online casinos. The target opening date is January 1, 2024. Gaming would be regulated by the state lottery agency (RILOT) and game servers would be located in one or both of the state’s VLT (video lottery terminal) and [...]

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ri_senate_passes_amended-igaming_billLawmakers in the Rhode Island Senate passed a bill allowing the state to open one or more online casinos. The target opening date is January 1, 2024. Gaming would be regulated by the state lottery agency (RILOT) and game servers would be located in one or both of the state’s VLT (video lottery terminal) and table game casinos in Lincoln and Tiverton.

Final changes to the bill (S-0948 Sub. A), included the removal of digital casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat and replacing them with live-dealer games only as well as a change in the state’s share of revenues from a proposed near the industry-high level of 50% of revenues for slots to 61% and a decrease on table game revenues take from 18% to 15.5%.

Age Raised to 21 for Table Games

Responsible gambling language was added and the minimum age to gamble at the online live dealer tables was raised from 18 to 21.

A few things make this story perhaps more interesting than it might be otherwise, although it is always news when a US state liberalizes online gambling.

Rhode Island is home to Bally’s Corp. and global casino and lottery giant International Game Technology (IGT), which has more than $4.2 Billion in annual revenue. It is also the smallest state in the US but the most densely populated. The two companies have entered into a partnership for the online casino(s) continuing an agreement to provide sportsbetting services and tech to the state.

In January this year, Bally’s Corp. announced it would cut 15% of its North American Interactive workforce and in February announced it had drafted and introduced legislation to authorize iGaming in RI.

While online casino measures have failed recently in Illinois, Indiana, New Hampshire, and New York, the one in Rhode Island appears on a track to success despite some questions of constitutionality from RILOT as well as potential competitors who were not happy with sports betting services being effectively restricted to s single provider choice.

The measure was approved in short order on a 30-4 vote Thursday, June 8, 2023. A Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs Committee made changes to the original bill sent up from the House on Tuesday – those changes addressed perceived constitutional issues with the original measure.

One question revolved around a form of live dealer casino gaming that is conducted from a studio rather than directly from a live-action casino floor. Lottery representatives feared that the constitutional definition of “table games” which was used in a voter-approved referendum allowing tables at the state’s land-based casinos, could be violated. While top lawmakers disagreed with the assertion they felt that accommodating a simple language change would be worth the effort.

New language in the bill states: “(30) “Online table game” means a casino-style table game authorized by the Division within the scope of the term iGaming, where such, games are conducted by one or more live persons and made available to players through use of the Internet…”

The bill is now headed back to the House of Representatives for any further debate or final adjustments – barring any change in language it is expected to be passed and sent to the Governor for his signature. The RI House passed a budget bill (2023-H 5200Aaa) on Friday, June 9 with revenue numbers from the iGaming bill baked in. That bill is now set to go to the Senate, whose Finance Committee is expected to consider it Tuesday at 3 p.m.

More Cautious Revenue Estimates

If erring on revenue numbers, the newest bill allows lawmakers to err on the side of caution and uses a more conservative estimate of $162.6 million directed into state coffers during the first five years of online casino operations rather than the original $210 million estimate provided by Bally’s in the original proposal. That number game from an industry study and report done by Spectrum Gaming for IGT/Bally’s. Many lawmakers quietly doubted the number while relying on the more conservative estimate.

This legislation provides an added convenience to Rhode Islanders who would like to play the existing table games offered at Twin River via their mobile devices,” said Senate Dominick J. Ruggiero, who introduced the bill to the chambers.

It helps ensure the continued strength of the state facilities in the competitive regional gaming market, and in so doing protects an important revenue stream that provides funding for vital state programs and investments.”

This is an important consideration considering the political fallout surrounding the original sportsbetting legislation that relied on numbers provided by the American trade association and industry watchdog, the American Gaming Association (AGA). Former Governor Gina Raimondo’s administration caught political flak when the industry numbers didn’t shake out right away. However, the state lost several months of revenue during peak sportsbetting season due to lagging approvals and ongoing tussles over the pending legislation.

In that launch, the state was counting on $23 million in revenue during the first year of operations but missed September, October, and November – important football betting months, especially in a small state with a fiercely loyal fanbase for its “local team”, the New England Patriots. The state’s biggest month to date for sportsbetting revenue was $6,703,144 (circa $80m annualized) for Nov. ’21 and the state’s greatest handle of sports bets was $62,317,384 in Jan. ’23. There are two physical sports books in the state (Bally’s Lincoln and Bally’s Tiverton) and one mobile app operated by IGT/Will Hill and Bally’s casinos. Retail sportsbetting has been legal there since May 2018 and active since Sept. 4, 2019.

Source:

Senate passes iGaming bill, State of Rhode Island General Assembly News, June 9, 2023

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Star’s Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Opening Postponed to April 2024 https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/07/stars-queens-wharf-brisbane-opening-postponed-to-april-2024/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/07/stars-queens-wharf-brisbane-opening-postponed-to-april-2024/#respond Wed, 07 Jun 2023 03:22:34 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/06/07/stars-queens-wharf-brisbane-opening-postponed-to-april-2024/ Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, an integrated resort that will operate the casino under the Star Entertainment Group’s brand and logo, was originally slated to open in December 2023, but delays in construction and regulatory headwinds have slowed down the completion rate. Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Will Experience Some Delay Presently, Destination Brisbane Consortium, which is in charge [...]

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Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, an integrated resort that will operate the casino under the Star Entertainment Group’s brand and logo, was originally slated to open in December 2023, but delays in construction and regulatory headwinds have slowed down the completion rate.

Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Will Experience Some Delay

Presently, Destination Brisbane Consortium, which is in charge of the resort, is owned by Star, which holds 50%, along with Hong Kong’s Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium International which own 25% each.

Updating the public, regulators, and partners about the expected delays, Star Group CEO and managing director Robbie Cooke said that the project has pretty much experienced the same pressures that other big projects in Australia suffered over the past months.

“We are disappointed, but this transformational development for Brisbane has been eight years in the making already, and it will be well worth the wait,” the executive said. However, he also gave reasons to be optimistic, assuring that the project will be a true game-changer that draws crowds from all over the world.

The resort is set to arrive at a time when competition in Asia is heating up with Thailand and Japan pressing on with their plans to build integrated resorts and boost their tourism. At the same time, Macau’s gambling sector has taken a hit as part of ample regulatory measures that seek to restrict gambling in order to boost consumer protection and other areas of the economy.

Star Group Still Optimistic about New Completion Schedule

The current delays notwithstanding, Star Group is confident about the project’s new timeline, and has confirmed that there have been specific milestones completed over the past weeks. As the building advances, almost all of the Sky Deck bridge section has been completed too. The 250-metre open-air rooftop runaway features bars and restaurants and can host up to 1,500 people.

The Star previously offered a sneak peek of its Sky Deck in February and has made significant progress on the structure since. The completed property is expected to attract 1.4 million tourists a year and offer a significant economic boost to Queensland.

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