Businessman Vies for Greektown

Bloomfield Hills businessman Tom Celani said Thursday he will offer to buy the bankrupt Greektown Casino for $450 million.

Celani, one-time part owner of MotorCity Casino, told The Detroit News his lawyers would file the purchase plan with the bankruptcy court today.

He said he has partnered with Connecticut-based hedge fund Plainfield Asset Management to craft the deal. Plainfield has other gaming interests and licenses in Nevada, Colorado and New York. "We've been working over the last six months trying to get the banks to sit down and negotiate with us," Celani said. "It's been tough, but we think we can get this done."

He and his partners have quietly acquired about $10 million in Greektown debt over the past few months, to gain the right to file a plan with the bankruptcy court.

Bringing the casino out of bankruptcy, Celani said, would be the first step toward revitalizing the entire Greektown area of shops and restaurants. He wants the casino to take the lead in sprucing up surrounding businesses and buildings, and would spearhead an effort to mall off parts of Greektown and make it more pedestrian-friendly.

"We can make it even more of a destination than it is today," Celani said.

For the complete story, please see Nathan Hurst .Businessman to bid $450M for Greektown Casino, The Detroit News, July 31, 2009.

Toledo Casino in the Cards?

Area businesses are looking for a boost if a casino is built in Toledo.

"Definitely, because once people try the food here, they come back," said Greg Shubeta, owner of Shubie's Ice Cream & Grill in Rossford.

Some area businesses in Rossford are already counting the dollars and sense from Ohio's proposed casinos, even before voters decide whether they will be built.

Backers of a proposal to place casinos in Toledo, Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati submitted enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot.

The planned site for a Toledo casino would be right off I-75 at Miami Street, next to the Pilkington Plant in Rossford. The proposed land sits on the Rossford-Toledo border, but will call Toledo home.

For the complete story, please see Shaun Hegarty, Business expect boost from casino, FoxToledo.com, Jluy 22, 2009.

Chippewa Tribe May Lose Greektown

After more than a year, the Chapter 11 saga of bankrupt Greektown Casino-Hotel is moving toward conclusion, but the casino's owners aren't in for a happy ending.

Likely to be a victim of the casino's restructuring will be the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa, which also operates smaller gambling halls in the Upper Peninsula.

The only bankruptcy exit plan sitting before Judge Walter Shapero would strip the tribe of its ownership and award Greektown's primary creditor, Merrill Lynch, with majority control of Detroit's third-largest casino by revenue. Plans call for the casino to exit bankruptcy by September.

Bondholders and some other creditors would be left with nothing as well.

For the complete story, please see Nathan Hurst, Tribe may lose Greektown Casino-Hotel, The Detroit News, July 22, 2009.

Ohio VLT's (Slots) Challenged in Court

The question of whether Ohio Governor Ted Strickland’s executive order authorizing the Ohio Lottery to install video lottery terminals (VLTs) at the state’s racetracks has landed -- as expected -- in the Ohio Supreme Court. And another proposal to legalize full-service casinos, sponsored in part by Penn National Gaming, owner of Toledo Raceway Park, will be on this coming November’s Ohio ballot.

An organization calling itself letohiovote.org has filed papers in the state’s highest court, seeking a ruling that Strickland overstepped his legal bounds by authorizing VLTs at the tracks. The group has also said it will spend up to $2.5 million to gather signatures to put the issue on the November 2010 state ballot.

Another anti-gambling group, the Ohio Roundtable, a church-based group, has promised to file a lawsuit, but has not done so as of yet.

On another Buckeye gaming front, Ohio Attorney General Jennifer Brunner has ruled that more than the necessary 402,275 valid signatures have been submitted by Penn National and Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, who seek to build full-service casinos in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus and Toledo, and that the question will appear on the November ballot this year.

For the complete story, please see John Pawlak, Ohio VLTs challenged in court; casino vote to go forward, U.S. Trotting Association, July 22, 2009.

WSOP Down to Nine

As those of us in the charity gaming business here in Michigan know, the popularity of poker has increased dramatically over the last decade. Charity poker halls have opened up throughout the state, and may one day equal or pass the number of charity bingo halls in operation.

With that said, this year's WSOP event is down to nine players, one of them Joe Cada, a 21 year old native of Michigan. Congratulation Joe, and good luck in November when final table action resumes.

Below are a couple of articles on the event, one a quick recap and the other a short profile on Joe after he reached the final 27.

November Nine set: Phil Ivey, Shelby Township's Joe Cada make WSOP main event final table

Shelby Township's Joseph Cada among final 27

FireKeepers Casino Pleased With Progress

Although there's no mention of the bingo hall that will open, the following excerpt from Indian Country Today gives a quick account of what to expect from the new FireKeepers Casino in Battle Creek. Due to open in August, the casino may become the premier gambling destination for western Michigan.

One year after the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi began construction on FireKeepers Casino and before its anticipated opening this summer, the $300 million project is already making an economic impact in Michigan.

FireKeepers is expected to create approximately 2,200 jobs – 700 construction and 1,500 permanent. The casino is also projected to generate additional jobs in southwest Michigan when in full operation. Since construction began May 7, 2008, the tribe has made a concerted effort to use business suppliers and labor in the local community and surrounding areas to build and support the casino.

“The tribe is pleased to see the progress we’re making in the construction of FireKeepers Casino and the local economic activity generated from the project,” said Tribal Chair Laura Spurr. “FireKeepers has become a much needed economic boost to not only our tribe but to the region and the state.”

The project is in the finishing stage. Crews are laying carpet, painting walls, positioning cameras and restaurant equipment, and will soon begin the installation of slot machines and tables for blackjack, craps and other card games. Approximately 235 workers representing various trades are on site daily, including painters, carpet and tile installers and bricklayers.

“It is amazing that one year ago, this site was a cornfield,” said Duane Wixson, senior project manager for Clark Construction. “Our incredible progress is a reflection on the leadership of the tribe and gaming entertainment (Michigan) The hard work and effort from our construction team has also contributed to the exceptional quality of this casino.”

For the complete article, please see Tribe pleased with casino construction progress, Indian Country Today, July 14, 2009.

FireKeepers Impact Could Be Far Reaching

FireKeepers Casino has already had an impact on Emmett Township, where it will open in early August along I-94. But area officials are both hoping and fearing the $300 million facility's footprint will be larger than Emmett's boundaries.

Since talk of the casino first arose more than a decade ago, officials spoke of the good and the bad: As a tourist draw, FireKeepers will bring economic development to the entire county, proponents said. All those new people will mean new crime, critics said, and don't forget the gambling addiction.

Now, as the final touches are added to the casino's interior, the talk's the same, just a little louder.

Communities across the county are hoping to benefit from economic development caused by the casino attraction.

"We are going to see an increase in the number of people that come to the area, especially in the first year," ventured Battle Creek Mayor Mark Behnke. "That means more hotels, restaurants, spinoff business in other assets we have in our community, be it Binder Park Zoo, the balloon festival or anything else."

In Marshall Township, whose western edge is only 3,500 feet from the casino, Supervisor Gene Hamaker said all properties along East Michigan Avenue have asked to be dual-zoned commercial-residential. That means they can be residential but can quickly develop into a business property if the opportunity arises.

Also, leaders from municipalities across the county said some of their residents are among the 1,500 employed by the casino.

Studies show the entire county and beyond is likely to see growth. A 2007 Central Michigan University study, for example, found that counties neighboring casino counties actually saw a greater percentage growth than casino counties themselves after gaming facilitis opened.

But it's the same with the bad.

For the complete story, please see Justin A. Hinkley, As open date approaches, impact of FireKeepers Casino still a hot topic, The Battle Creek Enquirer, July 12, 2009.

Compromise Could Bring Slots to Ohio Tracks

After a 13-day impasse, the Ohio legislature yesterday rocketed a new state budget to the governor that Democrats say makes the best of a bad economic hand dealt to the state but Republicans say is a gamble that won't pay off.

The bill allows Gov. Ted Strickland to add electronic video slot machines at Ohio's seven horse-racing tracks, proposed to be operational by May, to help balance the budget with $2.5 billion in spending cuts but without raising taxes.

Almost no one on either side of the partisan divide liked the finished product -- Republicans supplied just six votes, including five needed in the Senate for passage. But last night, Strickland hailed an end to the rancorous standoff.

"Our people and our businesses are struggling to stay afloat in the midst of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression," the governor said in a statement. "This budget protects them from tax increases they simply cannot afford."

For the complete story, please see Mark Niquette and Joe Hallett, Final bill passes with wealth of grumbling, The Columbus Dispatch, July 14, 2009.

FireKeepers to Open Five Restaurants

When FireKeepers Casino opens in early August the Battle Creek dining scene will heat up with the addition of five new dining options to include, Nibi, Caf 24/7, Mijem Buffet, Chi Mon-ee's and Amazen Blazen Grab & Go. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Michael McFarlen, the restaurants will offer a wide variety of fresh and flavorful dishes, incorporating local, sustainable ingredients into their menus.

“Michael brings sound culinary experience to FireKeepers Casino,” said R. Bruce McKee, General Manager for FireKeepers Casino. “He's spent much of his career at notable casino properties, but also has an intimate knowledge of local Michigan flavors and tastes. We could not have found a more perfect Executive Chef for FireKeepers and our restaurants will surely set a dining standard in the community.”

McFarlen's extensive experience includes time as the Executive Sous Chef for The Cove-Atlantis and as the Executive Chef for MGM Grand Casino in Detroit, Mich., the Detroit Yacht Club and the Wyndgate Country Club in Rochester, Mich. Prior to joining FireKeepers, he served as the Executive Chef for Ameristar Resort Casino Spa in St. Charles, Mo. He is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.

For the complete story, please see Five new restaurants heat up the dining scene at FireKeepers Casino, The Battle Creek Enquirer, July 9, 2009.

FireKeepers Casino Works to Reach Agreement Before Opening

Officials at Pine Creek Reservation, the Emmett Township Department of Public Safety and FireKeepers Casino are scrambling to get public safety agreements in place before the casino's early August opening.

That's because the agreements "have hit a last-minute snag," township Supervisor Gene Adkins said at the board's meeting Thursday.

The township board on Thursday postponed approval for the second time on a cross-deputization agreement between their public safety department and the Huron Potawatomi Police Department. In June, trustees wanted the township attorneys to review the language before voting on it.

The contract would deputize tribal police to act with authority on township property. Without the agreement, tribal police couldn't leave the casino grounds, which are sovereign Indian land, in pursuit of criminals.

Friday afternoon, tribal spokeswoman Donna Halinski said the cross-deputization agreement is not needed before the casino opens, and that the postponement of an agreement on the issue is not affecting public safety preparedness at the casino.

For the complete story, please see Justin Hinkley, Updated: Casino deals hit 'snag', The Battle Creek Enquirer, July 10, 2009.

Alabama City Council Approves Electronic Bingo

As the country continues to languish in a recession, bingo revenues continue to suffer. Many areas that depend on bingo will look to approve newer, revenue-generating bingo machines that stretch the legal definition of bingo and blur the lines between slot machines.

From the AP via CBS42.com, July 10, 2009:

Another Alabama city is trying to cash in on casino-style bingo machines.

The Fairfield City Council unanimously approved an ordinance Thursday night to allow electronic bingo operations.

The bingo halls will be allowed to open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The city will receive $100 a month per machine for three years, with the fee jumping to $150 a machine in the fourth year.

The Birmingham suburb joins a growing list of cities with laws to govern electronic bingo operations, even though the legality of the machines is still being debated.

For the article, see Fairfield approves electronic bingo machines

FireKeepers Casino Hopes for Success

A little more than a year ago, drivers passing Exit 104 on Interstate 94 gazed onto corn fields that had been there for generations.

But recently, the electric glow of the mega-sign marking the location of the new FireKeepers Casino was deemed too bright for passing motorists, so it was dimmed.

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi hopes the future of the state's newest gambling facility will be just as bright.

Scheduled to open early next month, FireKeepers Casino is a $300 million gamble for a small tribe during a big recession that has brought larger, more experienced gaming operations to their knees.

"We're just happy we're opening," said Laura Spurr, chairwoman of the 1,000-member tribe, which spent 10 years battling legal blockades to open FireKeepers.

"We think we're at the right place at the right time with the right people."

The casino is one of the most ambitious tribal casino projects embarked upon in Michigan. While other facilities such as Soaring Eagle near Mount Pleasant opened to great success, Detroit's three non-tribal casinos -- MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino and Greektown Casino-Hotel -- have struggled in the past year as consumers pull back on discretionary spending.

In big gambling meccas, Las Vegas and Atlantic City, N.J., year-over-year gaming revenues have declined by double-digit percentages since last year.

"It's a tough time for all casinos, and newcomers are no exception," said Bill Eadington, a gaming expert based at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. "But the good thing about the economy is that it will bounce back. It's just a question of how quickly."

In the troubles of others, Spurr and her tribe see potential.

For the complete story, please see Nathan Hurst, Tribe takes big gamble on new casino, The Detroit News, July 7, 2009.

Smoking Ban Exemptions Give Advantage to Casinos

It was one of the most contentious issues in the (Wisconsin) state Legislature's debate about a statewide smoking ban. And it remains one of the biggest questions about the ban, which will take effect July 5, 2010.

The state's 16 Native American casinos are exempt from the ban and can continue to allow smoking. That doesn't sit well with some bar owners — and the legislators who represent them — because it gives the casinos a competitive advantage.

And it encompasses much of the state — from the large Potowatomi casino in Milwaukee and the Oneida casino in Green Bay to the smaller casinos in the north woods.

Rep. Dean Kaufert, R-Neenah, has talked about leveling the playing field and may introduce a bill that would ban smoking in casinos, too.

For the complete story, please see Larry Gallup, Burning Questions: The casino exemption, PostCrescent.com, July 5, 2009.

Maintaining a Typical Bingo Pulltab Machine

Pulltabs can swell due to humidity and machine parts can wear down over time. Whether you're operating a bingo hall or managing your fraternal organization's clubroom, if you've ever sold pulltabs through a pulltab machine you've inevitably run into a jam or two.

That said, pulltab dispensers can be an invaluable revenue source. Keeping them in good working order should be a priority. Following is a video containing a couple of easy steps we've found that can help ensure the smooth operation of your pulltab machine and extend its life.

Las Vegas Hotel Deals Abound

Two years ago Gary Hamm and his wife gambled $200 at the Bellagio.

About two months ago it paid off.

He opened the mailbox at his Tacoma, Wash., home and found an offer from Bellagio for three free nights plus $50 in free play and food and drink credits.

"I was amazed, really," said Hamm. "Usually you expect to hear from casinos if you gamble a lot of money. We stayed there for three days and really didn't gamble much."

If it sounds like an expensive way to attract customers, that's because it is.

Las Vegas hoteliers are raking in $5.8 million per day less than they were a year ago, according to the latest figures from the convention and visitors authority.

And that is just on room rates.

It doesn't include all the free food, cheap or free booze, gambling inducements and show ticket discounts.

Properties across town -- from swank Strip retreats to humble downtown joints -- are offering more to get less than they were a year ago.

Even with room rates nearly 31 percent lower than 12 months ago as an enticement for customers, gambling revenue was down $3.8 million per day in Clark County.

"I think it is war out there right now," said Michael Crandall, director of business affairs for the Siegel Cos.

For the complete story, please see Benjamin Spillman, With economy sagging, Las Vegas hotel-casinos offer bargains, Las Vegas Review-Journal, June 28, 2009.

FireKeepers Casino Still Expected to Open in August

We're hearing that the FireKeepers Casino is still planning on opening in early to mid August. Located in Battle Creek, Michigan, FireKeepers will have the latest in slots, table games, and bingo.

From the FireKeepers website:

Playing with fire is about to get way more fun! With over 2,680 of the latest slot and video poker games; 78 table games including blackjack, craps and roulette; a live poker room and exclusive high limit areas and VIP lounge, you’ll see why FireKeepers is Battle Creek’s newest gaming hotspot.

Of course, FireKeepers will also feature a bingo hall with the latest in electronic handhelds and bingo equipment.

We'll be sure to keep our eye on the latest developments.

FireKeepers Casino Hasn't Settled on Official Opening Date

FireKeepers Casino won’t announce a firm opening date, Marketing Director Mike Facenda said, opting instead to let the results of a series of test openings predict when the much-anticipated Emmett Township facility opens to the public.

Somewhere around the end of July or beginning of August, Facenda said, as many as four “simulation nights” will allow the casino’s roughly 1,500 employees to try their new trade on an exclusive set of invited guests. After that, casino officials and the tribal council of FireKeepers’ owners, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi, will decide if operations need reworking or if they can open their doors soon thereafter.

For the complete story, please see Mike Facenda, Official: FireKeepers won't announce opening date, The Battle Creek Enquirer, July 1, 2009.