Casino Enterprise Management

LVGI, Golden Pond Enter into Joint Venture Agreement
Las Vegas Gaming, Inc. and Golden Pond 57 Ltd. have entered into a joint venture agreement, creating a new wholly-owned gaming company. The new operating company, Golden Gaming (Pty) Ltd., will be based in South Africa and will exist for the purpose of exploring any and all gaming and lottery opportunities on the African continent. LVGI’s Chief Marketing Officer Stephen Crystal explained the agreement: “The new company was formed to capitalize on Golden Pond’s existing relationships in the gaming and lottery industries in Africa, and to ensure the utilization of LVGI’s technologies, including our new PortalVision™ product...Golden Gaming Ltd. already has two lottery countries queued up for introduction in the African lottery market.” LVGI’s International Sales Manager, Bill Williams will manage LVGI operations to include the transfer of technology and expertise to Golden Gaming Ltd., whose executive oversight will be handled by Gladwin Marumo in South Africa. For more information, visit www.wms.com.

Cadillac Jack Celebrates 5,000 Game Placements in Mexico
Cadillac Jack announced a significant order which allows the company to celebrate a new milestone of 5,000 electronic video bingo gaming units in Mexico. Already operating more than 250 of Cadillac Jack’s games at two locations near Mexico City, Commercial Juegos de la Frontera is a valued customer and an integral part of Cadillac Jack’s success in Mexico. “The innovation, flexibility, and service that Cadillac Jack has demonstrated has greatly contributed to the success of our company in the market,” remarked Emilio Quiros, director general of Commercial de Juegos de la Frontera. “With the success that we have met in Mexico, we are on pace to be a top provider,” added Greg Gronau, president of Cadillac Jack. As a leader in the Class II gaming market in the United States, Cadillac Jack has adapted its highly popular and versatile bingo game engine to meet the demands of the Mexican gaming market, as well as the entire Latin American market. The company’s portfolio of server-based, downloadable electronic video bingo, and Latin-style bingo games are available in both Spanish and English.  For more information, visit www.cadillacjack.com.

Mohegan Sun Appoints Senior VP of Construction and Project Management
Mohegan Sun announced that Mohegan Tribal Council member Roland Harris has been selected as the senior vice president of construction and project management. Harris will assist President and CEO, Mitchell Etess, with all aspects of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (MTGA) and Mohegan Sun projects from initial planning, conceptual design, site preparation, project changes, and completion. Harris’ initial assignment is Project Horizon, Mohegan Sun’s $740 million expansion, which includes a
1,000-room hotel, 115,000 square feet of additional retail space, the 64,000 square feet “Casino of the Wind,” and the expansion of Asian Gaming in the Casino of the Earth. Harris, who has served on the Mohegan Tribal Council and the MTGA management board since 1995, brings years of management and Mohegan Sun experience to this new position. The acting Tribal Council Chair from 1995 to 2000, Harris was able to see the conception and completion of the original Mohegan Sun property to Project Sunburst, which has made Mohegan Sun the premier entertainment destination of the Northeast. Prior to being elected to the Tribal Council, Harris owned and operated his own firm specializing in land-use planning, subdivision, site development, civil engineering, and land surveying. More information is available by visiting www.mohegansun.com.

Global Cash Access Signs Macau Bank Sponsorship Agreement
Global Cash Access (GCA) has ensured its entrance into the Macau and Asia pacific region with its signing of a sponsorship agreement with Banco Weng Hang S.A. The agreement enables GCA (Macau) S.A. to offer Macau operators its full suite of technology, products, and services, including the processing of both PIN and signature-based bank card transactions. “It was critical for GCA to find the right partner in Macau to service our existing customers and build new relationships. With Banco Weng Hang S.A., we’ve found a reputable, forward-thinking partner eager to introduce GCA to the world’s fastest growing and most dynamic gaming market,” Kirk Sanford, president and chief executive officer of GCA, said. “Our mandate is to deliver new technologies and products that result in more transactions, more cash on the casino floor, and increased convenience for gaming patrons. I would also like to thank our GCA and Banco Weng Hang colleagues for all the hard work and dedication required to form this forward-thinking partnership.” GCA will offer Macau casinos a number of products and services, including ATM technology,
cashless gaming products, and marketing services. For more information, visit www.globalcashaccess.com.

Pinnacle Entertainment Purchases Sands, Traymore of Atlantic City
Pinnacle Entertainment announced it has completed its purchase of The Sands and Traymore sites in Atlantic City, N.J., from entities affiliated with financier Carl Icahn for approximately $250 million, plus an additional $20 million for certain tax-related benefits and additional real estate. The purchase includes approximately 18 contiguous acres at the heart of Atlantic City, with extensive frontage along the Boardwalk, Pacific Avenue, and Brighton Park. Pinnacle intends to build a new destination resort on the site that would be among the largest and most exciting casino hotels in the region. As part of the transaction, The Sands hotel-casino was closed on Nov. 11. The closure of the 26-year-old casino, which was among the oldest and smallest in the city, was necessary to allow the construction of a new, much larger facility as soon as possible. “We look forward to designing and developing a world-class resort on this spectacular site,” Daniel R. Lee, Pinnacle’s chair and CEO, said. “We have a great deal of work ahead of us, and look forward to creating thousands of new jobs, millions in tax revenues, and other lasting benefits for Atlantic City and the entire region. We are continuing to work with gaming regulators on our licensing application.” For more information, visit www.pnkinc.com .

Pokertek’s PokerPro Heads-Up™ System Receives GLI Certification
PokerTek, Inc. announces that Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) has certified the PokerPro
Heads-Up™ gaming system. Under this certification, the PokerPro Heads-Up system has met the following standards: GLI-13 online monitoring, control systems (MCS), and validation systems; GLI-16 cashless systems in casinos; GLI-24 electronic table game system; and applicable sections of GLI-11 gaming devices in casinos. This marks the second electronic poker table certification to the newly released GLI-24 electronic table game system by GLI for PokerTek. The initial certification related to the PokerPro system, the original ten-seated electronic poker table system was issued on Oct. 4, 2006. Additionally, the PokerPro Heads-Up system is certified as fully compliant for online monitoring of real time events, accounting, reporting, security, and cashless gaming, marking this table a complete turnkey solution for the poker industry. “The PokerPro Heads-Up table is the first of its kind to hit the industry,” James Crawford, president of PokerTek, said. “This new GLI certification allows us to continue providing casino operators and players with the newest poker innovations.” For more
information, visit the company’s website at www.pokertek.com.

Aristocrat and Bally Announce Cooperative
Aristocrat Technologies, Inc. and Bally Technologies, Inc. announced an agreement to cooperatively develop and market a common download system that manages configuration and content download in accordance with Gaming Standards Association (GSA), G2S and S2S protocols. Aristocrat and Bally believe that a significant opportunity exists in adopting the open industry standards to facilitate interoperability between manufacturers. The companies are combining their resources and expertise in download and systems technology to develop a common download and configuration system and associated protocols. The GSA-standard Downloadable Configuration Manager (DCM) will allow content download and configuration management and will be designed to co-exist with both companies’ slot and casino management systems, utilizing S2S and other manufacturers’ devices that communicate G2S protocols. Game content will continue to be proprietary to each manufacturer’s game cabinet and platform. “This is an exciting opportunity to advance the downloadable technology offerings for both companies” said Paul Oneile, CEO and managing director for Aristocrat Leisure, Ltd. “Our customers will benefit from this arrangement as we push for open industry standards developed specifically for this exciting new phase in the gaming industry,” Richard Haddrill, CEO of Bally Technologies, Inc., said. For more information, visit www.ballytech.com or www.aristocrattechnologies.com.

North American Video Adds Multi-Million Dollar Casino Contracts
North American Video (NAV) has been awarded several new integrated video security and
surveillance systems design and installation contracts in the gaming industry. According to Cynthia Freschi, president of NAV, the company has been awarded the contracts from MGM Grand Detroit, Isle of Capri Pompano, and Harrah’s Chester Downs, along with Phase II of the massive system recently installed at the new Wynn Casino in Macau. Freschi said, “North American Video is firmly positioned as a key provider of leading edge IT and digital video surveillance solutions to assist our gaming clients in executing their security projects.” The security and surveillance systems for the casino projects will be designed by M. Malia and Associates (MMA), a subsidiary company in the NAV family of companies. The various systems will incorporate a variety of IT, digital and analog technologies, and vendor partner products that will be integrated and installed by NAV teams. NAV has also announced the opening of their Asia-Pacific office in Macau to support their international clients.  The Asia-Pacific office is managed by industry veteran Sam Smith. For more information, visit www.navcctv.com.

Thalden-Boyd Architects Appoints Roe VP of Business Development
Thalden-Boyd Architect announced Linda J. Roe is rejoining its firm as VP of business development to establish and maintain client relationships in Indian Country. “It’s a ‘welcoming-home experience’ for us and for our clients,” Barry Thalden, principal, said.  “Both Chief Boyd and I are thrilled to have her as part of our team again; Linda’s passion for and dedication to the needs of our tribal clients brings a unique service to the Native American gaming industry.” Roe added: “I am extremely proud and excited to again represent the Thalden-Boyd team; their long-standing commitment to Indian Country is a rare quality seen in firms today. Their dedication to their tribal clients is reflected by the longevity of their years of service, and I value that commitment.” Roe has over 30 years experience in the design and construction industry working with architects, contractors, and developers as a business development executive. Since 1991, she has focused on the Indian Gaming industry and has worked with many tribes across the country, helping them develop successful building projects. For more information, visit www.thaldenboyd.com.

Bally Technologies Announces International Sales Appointments
Bally Technologies, Inc. recently announced the appointment of four new individuals to its international sales force. Thomas B. Mahoney has been named regional sales manager, Eastern Europe. Prior to joining Bally, Mahoney served as a sales account executive, covering the eastern region for Las Vegas-based Mikohn Signs and Graphics. Matthew Lai has been named gaming sales manager. In his new capacity, Lai will be based in the company’s Macau office and will be responsible for the Asia/Pacific sales region. Albert Santacana Modesto has been named regional sales manager, Latin America. Modesto will be based in Panama City, Panama, and be responsible for the Latin American sales region. David Sulam has been named operations manager for Bally Technology’s South American sales office located in Buenos Aries. In his new position, Sulam will be responsible for the company’s sales operations in South America. “I am very pleased to welcome these quality individuals to our international sales team,” John Connelly, vice president, international, for Bally Technologies, said. “These additions will allow us to significantly enhance our global sales efforts.” For more information, visit www.ballytech.com.

Ameristar Casinos Names Mohn VP Design
Ameristar Casinos, Inc. has named Jack Mohn, AIA, to the position of vice president of design. Mohn will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of project design for the company’s seven properties, including the new four diamond quality hotels currently under construction at Ameristar St. Charles and Ameristar Black Hawk. In addition, he will work closely with Ameristar’s world-class consultants in architecture, interior design, engineering, and many other disciplines. Mohn brings more than 25 years of experience to the position, having managed and designed multi-disciplined projects for various markets, with an emphasis on destination entertainment/resort properties and financial institutions. “We are delighted to welcome Jack to Ameristar,” said the late Craig H. Neilsen, Ameristar chair and CEO. “Our talented design team is instrumental in executing our key business strategy of creating the best facility in each market, and Ameristar is renowned for our innovative and richly themed properties. Jack’s two decades of experience in designing premier entertainment and resort facilities will further strengthen our capabilities in this area.” For more information on Ameristar,  visit www.ameristar.com/corp.

GLI Issues Macau’s First Communication Connection Certificates
Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) announces it has issued the first communication certificates for casinos in Macau. GLI Managing Director Ian Hughes said, “In addition to regulatory compliance testing against technical standard GLI-11: Gaming Devices in Casinos, for the Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau, specific testing for communications against the various systems is now critical in Macau which uses advanced features of systems and has specific language requirements. Manufacturers and operators benefit from the value of a formal testing process, knowing the devices will operate in this environment as intended.” The process involves a review of operator’s requirements and systems, then tailoring testing to ensure those aspects of device operation comply with the appropriate communication protocols. GLI undertakes specific testing against communication requirements of various systems in its interoperability center to ensure correct communication once installed. For more information, visit www.gaminglabs.com.

Cantor to Offer Aristocrat Game Content on Mobile Devices
Aristocrat Technologies, Inc. announced it has signed a slot content licensing agreement with Cantor Gaming, an affiliate of the global financial services company Cantor Fitzgerald. Under terms of the agreement, Aristocrat’s game content will be offered via Cantor’s mobile gaming system to wireless, handheld devices in casinos worldwide. “We are excited to join efforts with Cantor to deliver our proven games to casinos and their customers through this new mobile medium,” Kent Young, global general manager of marketing for Aristocrat, said. “Aristocrat’s proven successful slot content combined with Cantor’s history and expertise in the gaming and financial arenas with secure mobile transactions will offer a new and exciting player experience.” Cantor Gaming Managing Director, Joe Asher added: “We are thrilled to partner with Aristocrat on mobile gaming. Their innovative content is extremely popular with customers around the world, and we are excited to be able to offer it in this new distribution channel. Adding Aristocrat’s content to our system further enhances our standing as the leader in mobile gaming, which promises to provide exciting gaming opportunities to casino customers and incremental revenue growth opportunities for casino operators.” For more information on the agreement, visit www.cantorgaming.com or www.aristocrattechnologies.com .

GTECH Center Celebrates Official Grand Opening
GTECH Corporation hosted the grand opening of GTECH Center, home of the company’s new corporate headquarters at the corner of Francis Street and Memorial Boulevard. “This truly is a capital accomplishment. We share this day with the many people who have helped make this momentous occasion a reality,” GTECH President and CEO W. Bruce Turner, said. “Today, we celebrate our future. GTECH is poised for many exciting opportunities and, our new headquarters is symbolic of our vision.” A number of dignitaries and elected officials attended the grand opening, including U.S. Sen. Jack Reed; Rhode Island Gov. Donald L. Carcieri; Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline; Rhode Island Speaker of the House William Murphy; Providence City Council President John Lombardi; Capital Center Commission Chairman Leslie Gardner, among others. “I am very proud to celebrate the grand opening of this beautiful new building in downtown Providence,” Carcieri said.  “GTECH has long been an outstanding corporate citizen in our state. By remaining in Rhode Island, GTECH recognizes that our state is a great place to do
business. I thank GTECH for its continuing commitment to our state.” For more information, visit www.gtech.com.

WMS Expands International Sales Force
Sebastian Salat, vice president and managing director of international sales for WMS is delighted to announce the appointment of Stuart Gribble to the international sales team representing South East Asia, which includes Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Gribble’s initial responsibility is for corporate accounts in Macau, and supporting RGB, WMS’ exclusive distributor throughout the above mentioned territories and South Korea. Salat commented, “We are a rapidly expanding business and must ensure we have the best resources to meet our customers’ expectations; strengthening our team is key to our success.” Gribble, originally from New Zealand has over 20 years of industry experience, 12 in manufacturing and eight in sales, based in New Zealand, Asia, and South Africa. Gribble commented: “It’s great to have the opportunity to work with a brand that is making its mark throughout the world. The product acceptance is a clear indication of a company that is focused on its customers’ needs.” For more information, visit www.wms.com .

WMS Launches Newly Designed Website
WMS recently redesigned their website with the overall user experience in mind. They provide an engaging and informative experience for casino operators, slot players, and all key stakeholders in the gaming market. By analyzing and addressing the overall navigation and content, WMS’ site has become a strong and informative tool. The look and feel of the site reflects WMS’ new, sophisticated corporate identity. The homepage interface has been reorganized with a primary focal point (Flash content) and three subsidiary content areas for promoting key products, innovations, and interactive features. It also facilitates the use of multimedia to create a more progressive, engaging experience. The navigation has been structured to provide multiple paths to the games section, allowing users to browse games in a more user friendly way. Now when users go to WMS’ site, they are shown content about WMS’s history, relationships, and direction. Product images have been added, in the game section, providing an enhanced representation of each theme. The Hot Game section strengthens the marketing of top games. By focusing on their Player Driven Innovation research process, users get a clear understanding of the advantages WMS’ provides. A new player section was incorporated to include Hot Games, Big Winners and WAP Jackpot totals by state. By adding a graphic library, WMS now provides customers access to all game graphics making it easier to promote their products in casinos. Go to www.wms.com to experience WMS’ new site now!

WMS Announces Monopoly™ Big Event Online Player Promotion
WMS gives their products an advantage! They are launching an online player promotion to educate players on Monopoly™ Big Event’s game play and benefits. The promotion runs Jan. 1 through March 30, 2007 and allows players to become familiar with Monopoly Big Event, the eligibility meter, the six communal bonuses, and the bonus multiplier. All of this is offered in the comfort of their own home, for free, and with the possibility of winning over 1,350 prizes. By touching the players at home and influencing their purchase decision before they hit the casino, WMS is strongly supporting Monopoly Big Event in the market and heightening the player’s next casino experience. This promotion also offers a listing of casinos that have Monopoly Big Event on their floors, and encourages the user to refer the promotion to friends. While these online efforts help casinos increase coin-in, they also build WMS’ brand and product loyalty with players. By allowing users to “opt-in” for future product updates, WMS is growing their player database and taking steps to affect the performance of their future games. Go to www.wms.com/ , where you’re eligible to win one of 1,350 $50 instant e-gift cards; there are 15 instant winners a day, and two grand prizes—a first class trip to Las Vegas for the winner and three friends.

Golden Gaming, Inc. Acquires Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall
Golden Gaming, Inc. has completed the acquisition of the Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall. Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall is situated on 38 acres at the intersection of Route 372 and Highway 160 in the heart of Pahrump, Nev. The acquisition of Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall makes Golden Gaming Inc. one of the largest employers in Nye County with approximately 300 team members. The property was previously owned by Generation 2000, LLC.  “Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall is an exciting and promising addition to our gaming portfolio,” Rod Atamian, Golden Gaming Inc. executive vice president and chief financial officer, said. “We are pleased that the acquisition is now complete and are proud to have such a strong presence within the Pahrump gaming market. We look forward to providing superior service, atmosphere, and amenities for our valued guests.” Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Gambling Hall is the fourth casino in the Golden Casino Group. For more information, visit www.goldengaminginc.com. 

Isle of Capri Casinos Appoints Bohannon
Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. officials announced the appointment of John Bohannon as vice president and general manager of the company’s Isle of Capri-Black Hawk and Colorado Central Station properties in Black Hawk, Colo. Bohannon most recently held the position of vice president of marketing for the Black Hawk properties. He brings extensive management experience, having served as vice president and general manager of Isle of Capri-Bossier City, La. Since joining the company in 1993, Bohannon’s responsibilities included operations, marketing, and sales. His prior experience includes serving as corporate sponsorships manager for Six Flags Astroworld, Houston, and sales representative for Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas. Bohannon holds a bachelor’s of business administration from Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas. For more information on Isle of Capri Casinos, visit www.islecorp.com.

Gary Platt Helps Usher in a New Era of Mississippi Gaming
Island View Casino Resort has chosen Gary Platt Manufacturing to supply an additional 1,600 premium casino chairs for phase two of its reconstruction, slated to open in February 2007. “Gary Platt manufactures the most comfortable chairs in the gaming industry, guests and employees both agree. We call them the ‘Dream Chairs,’” said Steve Hendricks, vice president of gaming for Island View Casino Resort. For its video gaming needs, Island View Casino selected the Gary Platt Gazelle chair that delivers maximum play time through X-Tended Play features. “We are excited to be a part of one of the premier gaming properties in the gulf region. Island View Casino Resort wanted to provide top-of-the-line amenities to their patrons and fulfilled their commitment all the way down to the chairs they selected. It is very encouraging to see the impact this establishment is having on the Gulfport community, and we are honored to have a role in it,” Bob Yabroff, president and chief operating officer for Gary Platt Manufacturing, said.
In other news, Gary Platt Manufacturing recently launched an overhauled website—www.garyplatt.com —to provide guests and potential customers an enhanced experience with access to important product information. It features added functionality with improved organization and an eye-catching new look. One of the most obvious improvements is the easy-to-navigate menu bar with links to casino seating, news and events, installations, company information, and contact information. “Our goal was to have a website that reflects the company’s standard of quality and commitment to our customers,” Yabroff said. “The website puts valuable information at our customers’ fingertips through its easy-to-navigate layout.” For more information, visit www.garyplatt.com.