NEW PITTSBURGH CASINOS MAKE GOOD MONEY

16 February 2007

With a billion dollars in wagers in the first 90 days, Pennsylvania land gambling is popular

The Pittsburgh Tribune Review quotes official state figures that claim gamblers have wagered more than $1 billion at Pennsylvania casinos in the 90 days since they started opening in November.

Casino patrons bet $1.06 billion and won $960.8 million, the state Gaming Control Board reported.

In all, slots have generated $267.6 million for the state - including the 55 percent tax on gross revenue and licensing fees.

"The revenues from this new industry already significantly exceed the expense thus far for startup costs associated with gaming," gambling board Executive Director Anne LaCour Neeb said in a statement.

The first casino, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, opened November 14 near Wilkes-Barre. Two have opened since then: Philadelphia Park Casino and Racetrack and Harrah's Chester Casino and Racetrack.

Regulators licensed 11 slots parlours in December. Operators of Presque Isle Downs, near Erie, plan to open the first Western Pennsylvania casino later this month.

The Meadows Racetrack & Casino, in Washington County, is scheduled to open in the spring, and operators have started taking applications for 400 jobs.

An employment centre will open February 26.

Online Casino News courtesy of InfoPowa

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