Category Archives: Casino

LAKE CHARLES When the Golden Nugget unveiled its new sportsbook here last week, it showed its hand and made no bones about it.

Its target audience was clear from the person chosen to place a ceremonial bet as cameras clicked away: Mattress Mack. The furniture seller and prolific gambler, whose real name is Jim McIngvale, may be unfamiliar to many Louisianans. But hes famous in Houston, a couple hours drive from Lake Charles.

Normally I have to fly to Las Vegas or to Colorado or to New Jersey, and now Louisianas just a hop, skip and a jump away from Houston, he said Thursday after plunking down $60,000 on the money line for Texas A&M over Ole Miss at the DraftKings Sportsbook.

The states biggest casino market is back in the money again following the dual hurricanes that devastated southwest Louisiana in 2020. Last weeks opening of sportsbooks at Lake Charles two casino resorts the Golden Nugget and LAuberge are expected to bring further revenue and a potential new set of gamblers to dine at the venues restaurants or float down their lazy rivers.

A third resort, the former Isle of Capri riverboat casino, across the Calcasieu River in Westlake, was damaged after it was set adrift by Hurricane Lauras 150 mph winds. It is expected to reopen as the land-based Horseshoe Casino in the fall of 2022 and include a Caesars Sportsbook.

Construction on the land-based Horseshoe Casino continues at the site of the now-closed Isle of Capri riverboat casino property Wednesday, November 10, 2021, in Lake Charles, La.

The Delta Downs racetrack in nearby Vinton is also seeking a sportsbook license.

But there are legitimate questions over how long the region will be able to ride the wave of new money. There have been efforts to legalize casino gambling next door in Texas, and while that could still be years away, such a move would cut deeply into the Lake Charles areas customer base.

More than 80% of the Golden Nuggets business comes from the Beaumont and Houston areas, said general manager Greg Hennagin.

Take Mike and Sandra Sutherland, for instance. They were strolling the cavernous halls of LAuberge on a recent day on one of their regular trips from Houston. They appreciate the convenience of having two large casinos in walking distance of one another, plus their hotels, restaurants and other amenities, allowing them to stay put and enjoy themselves. Theyve occasionally done some fishing in the area.

But asked if theyd just stay in Texas if a casino opened closer to home, Mike Sutherland, 60, an auto parts industry manager, said: Probably so because of the convenience piece of it.

Local officials here are obviously aware of that possibility and say they are prepared for it. They have taken steps to try to insulate themselves against any drop in gaming revenue.

LAKE CHARLES The Panorama Music House in this citys struggling downtown looks like a mess

Calcasieu Parish does not budget casino revenue in the year it is generated, instead holding it in reserve until the following year, said Alberto Galan, assistant to the parish administrator. The city, like the parish, uses the money for nonrecurring expenses such as infrastructure projects and debt payments, said Finance Director Karen Harrell. A parishwide pool has been created to distribute the revenue based on formulas, which also helps spread the loss if one casino happens to perform poorly in a given timeframe.

Still, the permanent loss of a Texas-sized customer base could not be ignored. Gaming accounts for about 7.5% of Lake Charles revenue and around 3 to 5% for Calcasieu Parish.

While noting there are social costs, since gambling addiction is a serious problem, local officials say the jobs and revenue gaming has brought have been positives. Calcasieu Parish Administrator Bryan Beam said the industry accounts for up to 5,000 direct jobs when all facilities are open, not counting employment in related businesses.

Once a week we'll send you the top stories we find in the Lake Area

My feeling looking back over what is now basically a generation of 25 years, I do feel like overall the gaming presence has been positive for Calcasieu, Beam said. You've got thousands of direct jobs and indirect jobs because of it. You have a much higher profile for visitors, not just from Texas, but from a lot of areas that wouldn't come otherwise. And it's been a nice additional set of funds for some public agencies to do some big things.

L'Auberge Casino can be seen in distance as traffice passes over the I-10 bridge Wednesday, November 10, 2021, in Lake Charles, La. The sign directs motorists to the old Isle of Capri Casino site, which is being turned into a land-based Horseshoe Casino, across the lake from L'auberge and Golden Nugget.

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter said we view the gaming industry as an integral part of a diversified economy, though he said he would like to see the companies explore investment in poorer sections of the city, such as by locating offices there.

To have them bring just a few drops of that investment and put it within some of our underserved communities I think would be a great thing moving forward, said Hunter.

The industrys time in Lake Charles, beginning with the states first riverboat casinos in the 1990s, has not come without turbulence. The Harrahs riverboat complex in Lake Charles was badly damaged by Hurricane Rita in 2005. That area of the citys lakefront alongside Interstate 10 remains vacant, though a childrens museum and science center along with a bar and restaurant are being planned.

LAKE CHARLES In a century-old building in a long-faded part of town, the lights go on, the

Hurricane Laura, one of the most powerful storms in state history, tore through southwest Louisiana in August 2020, and the region has struggled to rebuild since. It was also hit by Category 2 Hurricane Delta six weeks later, a severe freeze in February and flooding in May.

In addition to setting the Isle of Capri riverboat adrift, Laura also damaged the Golden Nugget and LAuberge, though they were able to reopen within weeks. First responders were able to set up there in the meantime.

Revenue, of course, plummeted during that period, but it has rebounded strongly. Receipts from the LAuberge and Golden Nugget totaled $49.2 million in September, compared to $16 million in the immediate aftermath of Laura in 2020.

Jim Richardson, an emeritus LSU professor and former member of the states revenue estimating conference, said: I appreciate people having moral arguments about gambling, but I think from a purely economic perspective, this is an industry that has been successful.

He said when the state first approved it in the 1990s, revenue expectations may have been too high, raising false hopes. But the additional money that did come, along with jobs and tourism, has been significant, he said.

Right now, gaming and casinos make up about 7 to 8% of the overall state budget, said Richardson. That's a good amount. So in that sense, it provides that type of relief. Otherwise, wed have to use another type of tax on individuals or businesses to get that money.

All the more reason for Lake Charles to keep a close eye on Texas. The casinos here have worked to create a resort experience, with amenities like golf courses, shopping, bars and restaurants. Their current sportsbooks are temporary, with plans for permanent, larger facilities in the works.

Ronnie Johns, the former state senator from the Lake Charles area who is now chairman of the state Gaming Control Board, said continuing on that path will be key.

Every time you go to Las Vegas, you see these properties offering some new amenity, he said. They know their business, they know their market. They're always willing to reinvest in their properties, and I think that's what's going to keep them competitive.

Continued here:

Louisiana's biggest casino market is hitting the jackpot again. How long will the party last? - The Advocate

Ready to discover the best online casinos in the UK? Weve spent days of research and playing at online casino sites to single out the ones that are most reputable and have the best offer.

PlayOJO sits on a throne, and it is an excellent online casino for everyone, thanks to its no wagering bonuses and a great variety of games. That said, another casino may be a better choice for you so, read on for our comprehensive list of the best online casinos for UK players.

No one wants to make the mistake of using money on a shady site that wont take care of their funds. Technology like SSL encryption is a common feature of online gambling sites that helps protect your information.

All the sites weve listed also have a licence from the UK Gambling Commission or another reputable authority to prove their legitimacy.

The best UK casino sites should have fast and reliable customer support that users can quickly get in touch with.

There should be multiple contact methods and alternative support resources available. These include features like an FAQ section and live chat, so everyone can get the help they need.

The game catalogue is the main draw of any online casino and should include a large selection of titles across various game types.

While some sites focus on specific game types, the best online casino sites have something for everyone. We make sure to look for the most entertaining casinos with the best variety.

Of course, youre not going to stick around at any online casino site in the UK if youre not earning valuable rewards.

All the best casino sites in the UK have a wide range of bonus types that ensure you can claim valuable rewards regardless of your preferences. The best promotions also offer regular weekly and monthly bonuses such as free spins to keep players coming back.

Quick Look:

No wagering requirements on bonus money Special Prize Twister bonus game that can award free spins Over 3,000 real-money games

PlayOJO is one of the UKs best online casino sites, thanks to its unique no-wagering rewards and a wide variety of game types. The site is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and MGA and uses SSL encryption. This makes it a 100% legitimate online casino site that understands the importance of safety and creates trust with its players.

The game selection impressed us with its many game types. These include a massive variety of slot games and an expansive live casino section, alongside a handful of video poker games and bingo rooms. Theres also a dedicated category for jackpot games that includes many daily jackpot slots.

Thanks to the many advanced filters such as minimum and maximum bet amounts and volatility levels, finding a game that caters to you is a breeze.

Unlike many other top online casinos, PlayOJO offers a unique reward system that accumulates as you play. This lets you earn constant bonuses with no wagering requirements. It also means you can access bonus funds like free spin winnings right away.

Instead of claiming regular promotions, youll receive bonus funds whenever you bet on any casino game. This is a fantastic way to reward players for simply enjoying their favourite titles. There are also various other special offers you can benefit from, including the exclusive Prize Twister game. This features various rewards, from scratch cards to bonus spins.

Players can contact customer support using email or live chat, but not by phone. Live chat is unfortunately not available 24/7, although there is an extensive FAQ section. Overall, the customer support options are strong and give players various opportunities to get assistance.

Quick Look:

Loyalty programme lets you redeem points for bonus funds Exclusive The Sun branded games Holds licences from the UK Gambling Commission and the Alderney Gambling Control Commission

The Sun Vegas offers tons of game types, from game shows to virtual sports. The game lobby lets you filter by jackpot slots, casino games, and live games, creating a selection that caters to all preferences. Players can always find something new to enjoy, as the site is constantly updated with the latest releases.

There are only two promotions at The Sun Vegas. Thankfully, the welcome bonus grants players an impressive first deposit bonus match with a high max amount. The generous VIP programme also rewards players with points for every bet made. You can redeem these points for bonus funds that you can use on any casino game.

The site is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission and the Alderney Gambling Control Commission, so players can rest assured that its a legitimate and safe online casino. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the specific security technologies used.

Customer support is another area that could improve, as it was difficult to find the sites live chat service. While a phone number and email address are provided, theres no FAQ section. This makes getting assistance less convenient than with some other casinos.

Quick Look:

Magic Spins Tuesday that awards free spins Welcome bonus includes deposit bonus and bonus spins Extensive FAQ section with nearly 50 questions

Magic Red is the best online casino for UK slots fans, thanks to its massive catalogue of over 700 slot games. Theres always something new to find and play, from famous titles like Book of Dead to various Megaways games. The game collection also includes a dedicated live dealer section that offers many roulette, blackjack, and baccarat variants.

The site continues to impress with its variety of promotions, with rewards ranging from cashback to bonus spins. New players also can benefit from the welcome package, thanks to its low minimum deposit requirement and high max bonus.

Regular online slots tournaments and weekly free spins bonuses help ensure that players always have something to look forward to.

While Magic Red is based in Malta, it holds a valid Remote Gaming Licence from the UK Gambling Commission that ensures its legitimacy. 128-bit SSL encryption is used to protect user data, meaning you can enjoy the casino knowing your personal and financial information is safe.

Customer support is another area where the casino excels, thanks to the dedicated support team and extensive FAQ page. While no phone number is provided, you can use email or live chat to request support, and you can even upload documents to the site if needed.

Quick Look:

Loyalty shop features luxury rewards like electronics and bonus credits Exclusive Mr Spin-branded bingo game Refer-a-friend and new game bonus

While the catalogue of games at Mr Spin is smaller than other sites, its valuable loyalty programme makes up for this. You can redeem your loyalty points for a range of impressive rewards. Options include luxury electronics and even household appliances. Of course, points can still be converted into bonus funds to ensure everyone can receive useful rewards.

Aside from the generous welcome deposit bonus and Refer-a-friend promotion, the site offers a unique monthly bonus for new games. From bonus spins to bonus funds, you can enjoy extra rewards for trying out the latest releases.

This also means that the games selection is up-to-date and that theres always something new to try. Roulette and slots are the only two categories available, alongside an exclusive Mr Spin-branded bingo game. While the collection is limited, bingo fans can enjoy a unique game that isnt available at other online casinos.

The site has been operating since 2016, and is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. It also holds a GamCare Certificate, proving that Mr Spin has implemented high-quality responsible gambling tools and resources. All of this ensures that players can relax and play at a trustworthy and reputable online casino.

There are a good amount of avenues for contacting the 24/7 support team, including email, phone, and live chat. This allows users to get help using their preferred method, and the company even has a Facebook account that gives players more options.

Quick Look:

Exclusive Grosvenor live dealer games Regular Drops and Wins events 15 kinds of bonuses & promotions

Grosvenor is the top destination for players looking for a wide range of bonus types that ensure everyone receives relevant rewards. Offers include tournaments, prize draws, and frequent Drops and Wins events with impressive jackpots. Extra bonuses are available to players who can guess the value of their Bonus Vault or those who play certain chosen games.

No matter your preferences, the expansive game catalogue lets everyone find something to play. Megaways slots, live game shows, video poker, and Grosvenor-branded roulette are just a few of the many game types available. Grosvenor exclusive tables also have special in-game promotions that reward you for playing these unique games.

The site has dual licences from the UK Gambling Commission and the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. It also operates around 50 land-based UK casinos, so you can trust Grosvenor to provide a 100% legal and reputable online gambling platform.

When it comes to customer support, the site offers a dedicated site that includes live chat and an FAQ section. The only downside is that support isnt available 24/7, although there are still many convenient contact options, including an email support form that lets you type out your exact problem.

Quick Look:

Branded live games from popular franchises Welcome bonus includes many bonus spins and a deposit match 9+ accepted deposit methods

Genesis is an excellent online casino for new players, thanks to the generous welcome bonus with a low minimum deposit. It combines a standard deposit bonus match with an impressive bundle of bonus spins. This allows new users to get a head start.

Other promotions include many regular tournaments and prize drops that give everyone the chance to win valuable rewards. Players also have a wide range of online casino games to explore, including a live casino with popular branded games like Monopoly Live and Deal or No Deal Live.

The UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority both licence the casino, meaning its 100% legitimate. It also uses SSL encryption and PCI-compliant security systems to create a secure platform. While there is no FAQ section, the standard contact options of phone, email, and live chat are available so you can get fast support.

Quick Look:

Awards from the Global Gaming Awards London No deposit free spins bonus for new players Welcome bonus includes no wagering free spins

Thanks to its multiple awards, you can trust LeoVegas to provide a safe and secure online casino experience. The site has won various categories at the Global Gaming Awards London and EGR Nordics Awards. Its also licensed in the UK by the Gambling Commission, ensuring its legitimacy.

The welcome bonus grants a generous deposit bonus amount with and free spins. No-deposit free spins that let you play the popular slot Book of Dead for free are also available.

The slots collection includes over 600 titles, and youll also find live dealer games and bingo. This gives the site a diverse game catalogue that caters to a wide audience.

While there is no phone number provided, you can quickly contact support using email and live chat. A dedicated FAQ site is also available for registered users, giving them access to a wealth of questions and answers.

Quick Look:

Over 1,000 games Regular prize drop leaderboards with massive prize pools 6+ available payment methods

Mansions vast range of jackpot titles makes it a leading online casino for players looking for high-risk, high-reward games. Of course, there are also many slots and table games to ensure everyone can find something to enjoy.

The frequent prize drop leaderboards are another impressive feature, with generous jackpots thatll appeal to more competitive players. A generous welcome bonus and weekly rewards are also available so that everyone can enjoy regular bonuses.

Mansion operates under a UK Gambling Commission Remote Operating Licence under the jurisdiction of Gibraltar that ensures its legality. Support is easy to receive, thanks to the comprehensive FAQ section and email support, although you cant contact the site by phone.

Quick Look:

Unique weekly promotions, like Major Mondays and Sofa Sundays Many branded games Welcome package includes free spins

SlotsHeavens main draw is its wide variety of branded games, including popular titles like CSI, RoboCop, and The Matrix. Players can enjoy a one-of-a-kind gameplay experience inspired by their favourite franchises.

Weekly bonuses like Sofa Sundays and Major Mondays are available that provide players with a regular income of free spins and cashback bonuses. This allows users to keep playing for longer.

You can rest assured that SlotsHeaven is a legitimate site due to its dual licences from the UK Gambling Commission and the Gibraltar Licensing Authority. While email and phone support are available alongside an extensive FAQ section, the lack of live chat is an issue.

Quick Look:

Daily tournaments Over 1,000 games First deposit bonus

Red Kings stands out due to its massive catalogue of over 1,000 games. While not as varied as the other best casino sites, the collection still includes popular table and live games along with a considerable number of slots. If you ever get bored of a certain game, therell always be something new to try.

Daily tournaments are another excellent feature to keep competitive players engaged. Unfortunately, there are no other promotions aside from the sites VIP programme and a match on your first deposit that also comes with free spins.

This Maltese company holds a licence from the UK Gambling Commission. As a legal site, you can expect a secure and trustworthy platform. The support options only include email support, which could cause inconvenience for some users. The lack of live chat is especially noticeable.

One of the UK online casino veterans; established in 2008 14 game providers 39 blackjack games

New online casino; established in 2020 21 banking options Great mobile performance

Great for roulette enthusiasts, with 33 roulette games Over 1,300 games in total Caszilla, their mascot, awards you with a first deposit match and free spins

Specializes in slot games Games are provided by ITG Refer-a-friend programme

50 slot games 6 different kinds of bonuses Excellent user interface

Photo, Chris Liverani.

Yes, online casinos are legal in the UK, and all the best casino sites with licences let you safely play casino games.

Make sure to look for a sites licence that proves its legitimate. Also, you can rest assured that all of the sites on our list have valid licenses.

While its easy to check if an online casino is legitimate, its still an essential step that you need to take. Here are the basic checks to make before choosing an online casino:

Security Technology: SSL encryption has become a standard feature of many modern online casino sites in the UK.

This technology helps protect your data by preventing criminals from intercepting transactions between you and the site. As not every online casino mentions it, its best to check if a site uses SSL technology.

Licensing Information: The UK Gambling Commission must licence all legal casino sites in the UK.

You can usually find this information at the bottom of any page, and make sure to read the details thoroughly. Some sites can have two licences for different regions if they arent based in the UK.

Online casinos offer various games to enjoy, with the most popular being slots, table games, and live casino games.

Each category can include many sub-types, such as jackpot and Megaways for slots or blackjack, roulette, and baccarat for table games. Some sites also offer alternative games like bingo and scratch cards that appeal to more specific audiences.

No, UK casino sites dont need to be based in the country.

Its legal for sites to be based in other countries such as Malta, as long as they obtain a licence to operate in the UK. Many companies do this, as its much cheaper to operate casinos in countries like Malta.

You must be at least 18 years old to register and play at UK casino sites.

The UK Gambling Commission is the official authority that licences and regulates all UK gambling sites. Even if a casino is based overseas, the site still needs to apply for a licence from the Gambling Commission if they want to operate in the UK.

The agency also regulates online casinos to ensure they offer users a safe and fair experience.

PlayOJO proves itself as the best online casino in the UK, thanks to its valuable no-wagering bonuses for instant free spins winnings withdrawals and its massive range of online casino games. The unique rewards scheme lets you earn bonus money that you can use as you please.

The Sun Vegas and Magic Red are the runners-up that couldnt quite beat out PlayOJO but still offer an excellent gaming experience. The Sun Vegass loyalty programme provides a rewarding VIP programme that grants flexible bonus funds. Magic Red excels by rewarding its players with weekly free spins bonuses.

However, PlayOJO rises above them with its unbeatable promotions. Overall, this licensed and regulated UK online casino has a game catalogue that caters to everyone and fantastic rewards that build up passively. From its reliable support avenues to its advanced security features, PlayOJO has the best of everything for UK players.

That said, you wont make a mistake by playing at any of our picks but always make sure to gamble responsibly!

Gambling isnt a venture to engage in if you have financial troubles due to the risks involved. Dont forget the famous catchphrase: the house always wins.

Suppose youre struggling with a gambling addiction or know someone who does, contact the National Gambling helpline today via 0808-8020-133. There are several advisors available to help make gambling safe for both you and your loved ones.

Dont forget that gambling websites are rated 18+ only. More so, you may be unable to access the casino sites listed here, so ensure you check your local laws for online gambling and its legality. We offer reader-supported and independent reviews. While we may earn commissions for recommendations in our website guides, it wont affect our ranking method. Were committed to providing the best gaming experience for all players.

For more free gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations:

https://www.gamcare.org.uk/https://www.gamstop.co.uk/https://www.begambleaware.org

See the article here:

Best Online Casinos UK in 2021 With the Top Casino Games, Promotions & More - We Heart

Both Golden Nugget Casino and LAuberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles announced Monday the opening of sports betting on their properties this Wednesday.

LAuberge and Golden Nugget represent the fifth and sixth temporary sports betting licenses to be issued in Louisiana. Similar licenses went into effect last week at Harrahs Casino in New Orleans, Boomtown Casino in Harvey, LAuberge Casino in Baton Rouge and Horseshoe Casino in Bossier City.

Ronnie Johns, Louisiana Gaming Control Board chairman, said Monday that the sports betting licenses will last for six months, and permanent licenses should be issued by mid-2022. LAuberge and Golden Nugget are currently constructing permanent sports betting locations.

I know both properties are very excited to open sports betting, Johns said. Its a very important component for the gaming market for both casinos to be able to attract the Texas market.

The DraftKings sportsbook at Golden Nugget will open at 2 p.m. Wednesday inside part of the Blue Martini bar and will be the largest sportsbook in Lake Charles, officials said in a press release. The space will include six ticket cages and 30 self-service kiosks throughout the casino. It will be open 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m.-midnight Saturday and Sunday. Bets can be placed on the kiosks 24 hours a day once regulatory and licensure approvals are received, officials said.

Meanwhile, the permanent 10,000-square-foot sportsbook at Golden Nugget is being built at what was once the buffet area and should open by the summer of 2022, officials said.

Gerry Del Prete, Fertitta Entertainment senior vice president of gaming, said in a statement that the casino worked closely with state lawmakers to bring sports betting to Lake Charles.

Coupling the Golden Nuggets dynamic gaming network with DraftKings innovative tech and trading makes for an unmatched partnership, he said.

The Sportsbook at LAuberge is set to open at 9 a.m. Wednesday on a section of the existing casino floor near the Dragos entrance, replacing the old poker room and stadium games area, officials said. It will soon feature 40 sports betting kiosks. Bets can be placed at the Sportsbook from 10 a.m.-midnight Monday through Friday and 8 a.m.-midnight Saturday and Sunday.

A permanent sports betting spot at LAuberge is being built at the former Jack Daniels Bar and Grill.

Harold Rowland, LAuberge vice president and general manager, said offering sports betting locally is a big moment for the state.

Johns said approving mobile sports betting licenses is still at least two months away.

See the rest here:

Sports betting begins this week at LC casinos - American Press | American Press - American Press

Casino gaming has been around for centuries, with the first official gaming establishment opening in Venice, Italy, in 1638. This helped spark the casino craze in Venice, and by 1744, there were more than 120 casinos there. Gambling was slowly made legal throughout Europe, starting with the approval of lotteries, and then card games and general gambling.

Over the following years, casinos were built all over Europe, with Germany, France and Monaco helping to kickstart the expansion of casinos. Its incredible to think that centuries later the popularity of these games would soar, and the very same games that were played all those years ago can now be played from our very own homes at a casino online.

The UK has a very rich history with gambling. The slums were the prime place for betting to take place, and the games helped to close the gap between the rich and poor too. Lower-classes had the chance to change their life, and higher-classes were at risk of losing it all

Read on to find out more.

The Betting and Gaming Act

In 1960, the Betting and Gaming Act was passed in the UK, meaning that betting was finally legalised. Prior to this, gambling in the UK was heavily restricted. In 1509, King Henry VIII had banned gambling, despite it being a popular pastime for the lower-classes. In 1569, just after King Henry VIIIs daughter Elizabeth took the throne, the first state lottery took place, and offered a chance for the people of England to win a life changing sum of 5,000.

After this, legal lotteries and gambling were banned again, forcing lower-class players to go underground to play. Gangs were on the rise and the higher classes were at risk. It wasnt until an Act of Parliament came into force on 1st September 1960, that betting was legalised for those over the age of 18.

Casinos in London

The first casino in London actually opened in 1828, by William Crockford, with the sponsorship of the Duke of Wellington. Crockford is now Londons oldest casino and can be found in Westminster, reigning as one of the most exclusive and stylish casinos in the city. It was around the time of its opening, however, that casinos were tainted with a bad reputation.

In the 20th century, gambling in London was closely associated with the Kray twins. The famous, dangerous gangsters owned part of Esmereldas Barn, which was a popular casino in the rich area of Knightsbridge. The government subsequently decided that a different approach to gambling was needed, to properly monitor the games and promote the safety of their players.

The first legal UK casino

Following the passing of the Betting and Gambling Act,1961 saw the birth of the first licensed, legalised casino in the UK The Casino Club. The casino was opened in Port Talbot, Wales, by budding entrepreneur George Alfred James, whose vision came to life with a fine-dining restaurant that could seat 400 people, floor space that lit up for dancers and cabaret acts, and of course casino games.

In 1962, the Clermont Club opened its doors. It was the first casino in London to be granted a license, and saw the likes of Princess Margaret gracing its tables.

In 1963 and again in 1668, the government added a few small changes to the Gambling Act, with the support of the public. This meant that the industry was more regulated, and London became the most tightly-controlled gambling city in the world. The popular casinos saw patrons from all across Britain and Europe flock to London.

The Gambling Act

It wasnt until 2005 that the laws changed again, introducing the UK Gambling Commission. Now, gambling could be even more heavily regulated, and as the commission received authority over land-based and online casinos, the construction of the first super-casinos could take place.

The first online casino to provide real-money transactions was formed in 1996, and since then, the world of gaming has never been more accessible in the UK, and with laws in place to keep players safe, the industry just continues to grow.

Related

See the original post:

The history of casinos in the UK - The Game Haus

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo.- The Osage Nation Indian Tribe said they plan to develop a new casino at the Lake of the Ozarks, but there are some hurdles that must be overcome first.

Officials with the Missouri Gaming Commission said people should know the new development isnt a done deal. Commission Chairman Mike Leara said theres a lot for Osage Nation to go through before this is a reality.

Its up to the federal government to give the first nod in this and then the state would have to, Leara said. Part of the federal governments decision in this is how they seek opinions from the state before they give an approval. I simply do not know at this time where all of the government entities stand in this.

In a release, the Osage Nation said they plan to, develop a new entertainment district at the Lake of the Ozarks, including a new hotel complex that will feature a casino, restaurants, entertainment, and more. The project is expected to be completed in multiple phases with an estimated $60 million investment in the region, bringing new jobs, tourism and revenue for the Lake of the Ozarks community.

Leara said while they support economic development in the state, the gaming commission isnt taking a stance in support or against the possible casino at this point.

Leara said Missouri has 13 casinos that have to be on either the Missouri or Mississippi River.

There would have to be an agreement of how we all worked together, Leara said. What that would entail, what does that mean. They are not, obviously, under the same gaming laws as the other 13 casinos in the state.

Federal law provides tribes and states with legal framework to develop tribal gaming.

I think this law was passed in 1988 at the federal level, Leara said. That allows them to have a casino off of the reservation, Leara said.

He said it will probably take some time before the casino could become a reality.

Its gonna be quite an uphill climb for them, Leara said. I didnt say uphill battle, but it will be an uphill climb. There will be a lot of work in front of them. I would suspect you wouldnt see any sort of groundbreaking, or solid approval, at least for a couple years.

In their release, the Osage Nation quoted support from some state and local officials.

See the rest here:

Osage Nation must overcome hurdles before Lake of the Ozarks casino is reality - fox4kc.com

So, you want to work at a casino?

Like getting a straight flush, getting the job might be harder than you think.

With a new casino on the horizon for Vigo County, getting hired to work there likely will require more steps than just providing a resume, depending on the scope of work.

Casinos and casino-related jobs employ 12,496 workers in Indiana casinos as of late October. Of those, 8,348 work in casinos and 4,148 work as sports wagering venue workers or as suppliers to casinos, according to the Indiana Gaming Commission.

Many of the sports wagering workers are licensed in Indiana, but can work out of state as third party vendors to casinos.

In the past two years we have seen a huge increase in the number of occupational licenses we issue because of sports wagering, said Jenny Reske, deputy director of the Indiana Gaming Commission.

Four casino operators are vying for a Vigo County casino license, and depending on which company the Gaming Commission selects, it is expected to create between 400 and 800 permanent jobs.

The Gaming Commission is slated to make a selection on Nov. 17, but it is uncertain if the agency immediately will also award a casino license, pending an appeal from Lucy Luck Gaming. That company is contesting the IGCs decision in June not to renew its Vigo County casino license.

Additionally, the IGC expects to hire 12 enforcement officers representing the Gaming Commission at a new Vigo County casino. Those officers monitor casino operations for casino regulatory compliance and conduct regular, timely, and thorough testing of electronic gaming devices and other gaming equipment at casinos, Reske said.

Those officers are certified police officers for the state, Reske said, and even if an applicant is a former police officer, they must attend the Indiana Law Enforcement Academys casino regulatory training.

Getting licensed

A state occupational license is required for certain casino jobs. However, a person must first apply to a casino and then have an offer of employment from that casino before they can apply for state licensing. The casino will provide licensing instructions and forms.

The hiring process will require payment of a state applicant fee and an occupational license fee and will require background checks. The two fees range from a combined high of $1,100 to a low of $100.

The casino pays those fee costs to the IGC. However, the casino may require the person seeking a job to reimburse the casino or may deduct those fee costs from their employee paycheck.

There are three levels of employee licenses, and each comes with an application fee.The application fees are:

Level 1 license $1,000.

Level 2 license $200.

Level 3 license $75.

If approved in the application process, then an occupational license fee is required. Each license is valid for one year.The occupational license fees are:

Level 1 License: $100

Level 2 License: $50

Level 3 License: $25

Casino jobs for the three license levels include:

Level 1: This is the highest level which includes members of a casinos board of directors, a general manager, or other managers such as floor managers that are decision makers at an executive level. Each casino has different job titles based on their own organizational chart.

We look at the job descriptions and we determine the level of decision making and autonomy the person has in assigning a license level, said Jenny Reske, deputy director of the Indiana Gaming Commission. So a level 1 is someone who has authority, they are a supervisor, they can make decisions and have a higher level of trust, Reske said.

As of October, there were 933 Level 1 licenses in Indiana, according to the IGC.

Level 2: This is a level for a job such as a card table dealer, someone who handles money who is involved in gaming but who is not a supervisor or manager. As of October, there were 9,547 Level 2 licenses in Indiana, according to the IGC.

Level 3: This is someone who works on the gaming floor, but does not handle money, such as a cocktail server. This is the lowest level and we do the least involved investigation on those individuals, Reske said. This level can include third party partner businesses, which do jobs on contract. The state then reviews those job titles as well and people could come in on a vendors badge, Reske said.

The Gaming Commission is set up to accommodate the needs of each individual [casino] property. We take requests and proposals from each operator that will meet their specific needs and then we work through those within the framework of our rules and state statutes, Reske said. We look at the nature of the work that each individual does and we base the determination [for the licensing level] on whether or not they need a license.

As of October, there were 2,016 Level 3 licenses, according to the IGC.

There are also workers who do not need a state-issued license and are not connected directly to the casino floor. Examples of such workers include someone who works at a restaurant that is not on the casino floor. Another example is a person who cleans hotel rooms or third party vendors who deliver to the casino property but do not need access to the gaming floor.

We look at proximity to gaming, access to the casino floor, the nature of the work, and we make a licensing determination based on that, Reske said. It is difficult to use a job title in reference to work; that is why casinos expend a lot of resources into carefully defining what each person does, and they have to submit a lot of documentation [to the IGC] to show its organizational chart, Reske said.

Only individuals that casinos indicate that they intend to hire are eligible to submit an application to the Gaming Commission, Reske said. We dont become involved with an individual licensing process until the casino has advised us they intend to hire the person. The casinos do engage in pretty extensive recruitment efforts when they do open a new casino. They want to make everyone comfortable that they are a great place to work and have a profile in the community that attracts talent, Reske said.

The timeline to get a job varies.

Level 3 and Level 2 applications can be processed relatively quickly, Reske said. Our process, in order to accommodate the applicants and casinos, is that we will do an initial review of the application and issue a temporary license that will allow a person to begin work. Then we will conduct all the necessary review, including having fingerprints run and obtaining criminal history information before issuing a permanent license.

In a look at casino employment in 2020, Indiana licensed casinos range from nearly 61% (Hollywood Casino) to nearly 100% (Hoosier Park Casino) of employees who are Indiana residents.

We are excited to see casinos with high local and in-state employment numbers, but it is not a statutory requirement to meet a certain quota, Reske said.

Casinos and average salary

Indiana casinos operate in 13 locations, with one casino Four Winds Casino in South Bend an Indian gaming casino regulated by the U.S. National Indian Gaming Commission. The other 12 are state-licensed and regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Two of the state-licensed casinos are at horse race tracks.

Four Winds Casino is owned by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and is regulated by the federal government. In August, the Four Winds Casino started a revenue sharing compact with the state of Indiana that allows for Class III games, such as Vegas-style slots and table games.

There are other casinos owned by other Indian organizations operated under state licenses in Indiana.

Caesars Entertainment this year sold Caesars Southern Indiana casino to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The tribe retained the Caesars branding and operates the casino under state license rather than under the U.S. Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary is 85% owned by Hard Rock International, an enterprise of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Hard Rock is a state-licensed, commercial casino rather than a federally regulated Indian gaming casino. Hard Rock this year replaced the Majestic Star 1 and Majestic Star II casinos.

Hard Rock is also one of the four casino operators vying for the Vigo County casino license, applying as HR Terre Haute LLC. Others seeking the Vigo County casino license are CDTH LLC (Churchill Downs); FHR-Atlas LLC (Full House Resorts, Inc.) and Terre Haute Entertainment LLC (Premier Gaming Group and Terre Haute Entertainment Holdings LLC).

Vigo County is slated to become the 14th location in the state for a casino. The state-regulated casinos are Ameristar Casino East Chicago; Rising Star Casino Resort (Rising Sun); Hollywood Casino (Lawrenceburg); Harrahs Hoosier Park Casino (Anderson); Ballys Evansville (formerly Tropicana); Horseshoe Casino (Hammond); Belterra Casino Resort & Spa (Florence); Indiana Grand Casino (Shelbyville); Blue Chip Casino (Michigan City); Hard Rock Northern Indiana (Gary); Caesars Southern Indiana (Elizabeth); and French Lick Resort Casino.

In a glance of salaries in the states licensed casinos, in 2015 the average yearly entry level salaries ranged from a low of $20,190 at French Lick Resort with 1,558 employees, to a high of $37,801 at Ameristar Casino, with 1,410 employees, according to the IGC. In that year, average yearly dealer salaries ranged from a low of $32,797 at Majestic Star I with 785 employees to a high of $61,333 at Hollywood Casino, with 911 employees.

In 2017, the lowest average yearly entry level salary was $21,518 at Indiana Grand Casino with 978 employees. The highest average yearly entry level salary in that year was $40,832 at Majestic Star II with 201 employees. In that year, the average yearly dealer salaries ranged from a low of $31,484 at the Majestic Star I with 763 employees to a high of $64,064 at Belterra Casino with 920 employees.

In 2019, the lowest average yearly entry level salary was $24,782 at French Lick Casino with 1,790 employees, with the highest average yearly entry level salary at $41,374 at Indiana Grand Casino with 967 employees, according to the IGC. In that year, the average yearly dealer salaries ranged from a low of $33,959 at Horseshoe Casino with 1,745 employees to a high of $60,802 at Hollywood Casino with 815 employees.

In 2020, casinos starting in March were closed, and remained closed for three months, before reopening in June under COVID-19 guidelines. Two casinos Tropicana (Now Ballys) and French Lick Resort did not pay employees during the shutdown, according to the IGC. In 2020, the lowest average yearly entry level salary was $26,444 at Blue Chip Casino, with 587 employees, with the highest average yearly entry level salary at $43,233 at Belterra Casino, with 567 employees.

In that year, the average yearly dealer salaries ranged from a low of $28,847 at Horseshoe Casino, with 1,091 employees, to a high of $62,338 at Caesars Southern Indiana, with 891 employees.

The application process

The Indiana Gaming Commission has several requirements under its application process. Once a casino selects an employee, it will provide the prospective employee with a license application, depending on position.

Under the IGCs job application process:

The person seeking a job must provide documentation such as a birth certificate or naturalization papers.

The person must provide any documentation of military service.

If the applicant has an arrest record or criminal history, that person must provide court documentation demonstrating the outcome of all arrests or criminal charges, according to the IGC.

The ICG requires a background investigation for each job applicant. At the top level, Level 1, that includes a financial investigation. Other requirements for applicants include being photographed for an identification badge and fingerprinted by gaming agents at the casino offering a job. All fingerprints are then forwarded to the FBI for a complete national criminal history check.

Once that is complete, the ICG staff conducts a preliminary review and investigation. The job applicant is then issued a temporary license to allow the person to work until a full investigation is performed. A temporary license can be unilaterally revoked by the ICGs executive director without a hearing.

In the IGCs review, the state considers:

An applicant must be at least age 21.

An applicant must be qualified to perform the duties required of the applicant by the casino.

An applicant must not appear on the (gaming) exclusion list in Indiana or in any jurisdiction.

An applicant must never have had a gaming license suspended or revoked in any other jurisdiction.

An applicant must not be currently abusing drugs or alcohol or both.

An applicant must be in substantial compliance with all state and federal tax laws.

An applicant must be of good moral character and reputation.

An applicant must meet any other standard that the commission deems necessary to ensure compliance with the law.

An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or gambling related misdemeanor offense may not be issued a license, according to the IGC. In certain limited situations, an individual who has been convicted of a felony may be able to apply for a waiver of the felony conviction prohibition.

Additionally, once hired to work in a casino, a person is required to report to the IGC if they are arrested or have any criminal charges; file for bankruptcy; or report any other information that would affect their license suitability. That information must be reported to the state within 10 days of the occurrence.

If a [licensed employee] does not comply with the statutes and regulations governing casino gambling, the licensee may be subject to disciplinary action including suspension, revocation of the license, or a fine up to $5,000, according to the IGC.

The application process can be found at: in.gov/igc/casino-licensing/occupational-licensing.

Reporter Howard Greninger can be reached 812-231-4204 or howard.greninger@tribstar.com. Follow him on Twitter@TribStarHoward.

View post:

Want to work at a casino? Getting hired might be harder than you think - Terre Haute Tribune Star

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, United Kingdom, Nov. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Although a relatively new name in the online slot and casino market, King Casino are paving the way for enjoyable and responsible online gambling. Providing a vast mixture of online slot and casino games, players from the UK are migrating to King Casino, and theres plenty of reasons why.

Read Our King Casino Review below:

1.King Casino offers, and King Casino bonuses are some of the best in the market

First up in our King Casino review is promotions. The thrill of playing online slot and casino games is there for all to enjoy, but the magnitude of King Casino offers and King Casino bonuses available to new and existing players are like no other on the market. From the moment you register youll be entitled to a great selection of offers, fit for royalty! Free spins, boosters, cash prizes, daily drops and even themed events all enhance the player experience.

To keep things exciting, theres plenty of exclusive and limited time King Casino offers too, in an environment that offers the best possible experience for players. Its fully regulated and licensed, with a commitment to fun, safe, and responsible gambling.

2. King Casino provides a vast array of classic and new games, updated regularly

Next up on our King Casino review are the games available to play through the website and on mobile. Theres a huge choice of popular and new games to test your skills on, including everything from Fishin' Frenzy and Rainbow Riches to Auto Roulette and Blackjack. With plenty of King Casino bonuses and game types to suit all players, our King Casino review ranks the choice of game options available to play on the website and on mobile very highly.

3. All games carry a King Casino review, highlighting the percent return to player, gameplay, betting criteria and more

King Casino make it very easy for players to determine whether a game is right for them and whether it will suit their play style and betting budget. Each game comes with a King Casino review, where the RTP is detailed, the gameplay is explored, minimum and maximum bets are outlined, and theres even some interesting info on the developers of the game.

This is backed up by outstanding customer support, where you can chat to the team, learn more about the games and King Casino offers, and ask questions, 24/7.

It pays to keep up-to-date with King Casino

To keep up-to-date with the limited time King Casino offers and King Casino bonuses, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, and download the app.

King Casino Instagram

King Casino Facebook

King Casino App

More information:

Fortuna Gaming is a UK based marketing company in the iGaming industry, founded in 2017 with a team of passionate and responsible professionals. Since our inception we have pioneered the increased adoption of mobile devices in iGaming and have developed unique and exciting brands in countries all over the world. Learn more via the website: https://www.fortunagaming.com/

https://thenewsfront.com/king-casino-review-the-best-offers-bonuses-and-promotions-in-the-kingdom-await-you-fortuna-gaming/

Fortuna Gaming owns and operates over 20 casino brands throughout different GEO's that includes King Casino.

Original post:

King Casino Review: The Best Offers, Bonuses and Promotions - GlobeNewswire

Posted on: November 8, 2021, 11:38h.

Last updated on: November 8, 2021, 11:50h.

Live! Casino Hotel Maryland was the states top grossing casino in October. Its only the second time since MGM National Harbor opened in December of 2016 that the Anne Arundel County gaming floor outpaced its primary competitor.

Gross gaming revenue (GGR) from the states six commercial casinos totaled nearly $155 million last month. Thats 8.6 percent better than October 2020. The casinos contributed $68.9 million in tax revenue to the state during the month.

Live! led the way, with casino win totaling a little more than $60.8 million. The 22.7 percent year-over-year surge for The Cordish Companies property allowed it to easily best MGM National Harbors $55.8 million in GGR.

While Live! experienced increased play in October, MGM went the other way, National Harbor experienced a gaming win decline of 1.2 percent from October 2020. The last time Live! topped MGM was in February of 2017.

Horseshoe Baltimore GGR was nearly flat from a year ago, the city casino reporting GGR of $17.2 million, a 0.9 percent decrease. The three resort casinos Ocean Downs, Hollywood Perryville, and Rocky Gap combined to win approximately $21 million, or about 10 percent more than they did in October 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic isnt fully behind the US. But for now, its darkest days seemingly are.

October 2020 presented a favorable comparable for Maryland casinos in October 2021, as the venues were forced to operate at half capacity a year ago. The six gaming properties are today free of any state-mandated coronavirus restrictions.

Gaming has been robust in Maryland since Gov. Larry Hogan (R) lifted capacity restrictions on the casinos in March. The six gaming floors in July reported record revenue of $180.1 million, the highest monthly mark in state history.

Year to date, GGR totals around $1.59 billion. That is $613 million better than the same 10 months in 2020.

Marylands casinos are set to soon gain another operating privilege with sports betting. Last week, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission approved several casino-sportsbook partnerships.

Approved Sportsbook Partnerships:

Rocky Gap has yet to unveil whether it plans to seek a sports betting permit. The five state approvals allow the licensees to operate both in-person and online sports betting once given the greenlight. But that greenlight remains red, as the states Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) continues to drag its feet in finalizing regulations that will govern the expanded gambling.

Were obviously disappointed by the lack of progress in yesterdays SWARC meeting, explained John Martin, Marylands lottery and gaming director. The delay is likely to push sports wagering back until after the New Year. At this point, we are hoping to make the NFL playoffs in January and the Super Bowl in February.

Marylands Baltimore Ravens are serious Super Bowl contenders. The 6-2 AFC North leaders are at 12/1 to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

See more here:

Live! Casino is Top Maryland Earner for Only Second Time Since 2016 MGM... - Casino.Org News

Play online casino games, including Live Roulette and Blackjack

Here at William Hill Casino, youll find online casino games that bring all the excitement fans of Roulette, Blackjack and more have come to love.

With a wide choice of games from slots to fresh twists on online blackjack and roulette youll always find a game to suit you whether you play casino online, on your desktop, tablet or mobile.

As a William Hill Casino player, youll enjoy some of the best online casino promotions and bonuses around.

Click the casino promotions tab to discover whats on offer, including competition points and daily promotions.

Whether its our exciting range of quality games, useful bonuses, or our trusted reputation - start discovering what makes William Hill one of the top casino sites today.

To take a look at our range of online casino games, simply search by category.

This makes it easy if you know which William Hill games you like to play. You can choose from slots, new releases or even our most popular releases.

Youll notice other familiar titles, like several online blackjack games variations and online roulette options.

And then there are the games that spell out casino like none other slots.

The slot games are categorised, too, so you can easily find video slots, as well as classic single-line titles.

Play all your favourite casino games on the move with our casino app, available on iOS and Android

There are more than a hundred video slot games to choose from, including:

See the original post:

Play Online Casino Games | Casino Online UK | William Hill

Mayor Lori Lightfoots Chicago casino game will be five-card draw.

Lightfoots office on Friday announced the city received five proposals from a total of four development groups looking to build and operate the big-city mega-casino that city officials have been trying to land for decades.

After pushing back the original summer bidding deadline a move that suggested lukewarm industry interest in a highly taxed downtown gambling temple the city identified the contenders as Rhode Island-based gambling company Ballys Corporation, Florida-based gaming giant Hard Rock International, and two separate groups with proposals spearheaded by Chicago casino magnate Neil Bluhms Rush Street Gaming.

Ballys submitted two separate proposals.

No wild cards were among the competing developers chosen sites, proposing projects at or near McCormick Place, the vacant South Loop site known as The 78 and the Chicago Tribunes Near North Side publishing plant.

Lightfoot said in a statement that she was thrilled with the hand she was dealt.

The submission of bid responses represents a major step toward the thoughtful development of a casino-resort that uplifts our businesses, employs and empowers our residents and encourages tourism. We look forward to the next phase of discussions to bring this world-class entertainment experience to our city, she said.

Bluhms company signaled it was all in on a Chicago proposal last month when it pulled out of the running for another new casino slated to break ground in Waukegan. But Fridays turning of the cards revealed Bluhms Rush Street Gaming is behind two development groups with names that tip their hand on where theyd like to break ground: Rivers Chicago at McCormick LLC, and Rivers 78 Gaming LLC.

McCormick Place has long been considered a viable casino site, while analysts have floated The 78 as fertile gaming ground in the 62 vacant South Loop acres near Roosevelt Road and Clark Street.

A Rush Street spokesman did not have any immediate comment.

Lightfoot has left the politically thorny question of where to put the casino up to the potential developers .

Bluhm has long been considered a shoo-in to apply for the city casino license, given his success running the states most lucrative gambling mecca, Rivers Casino in Des Plaines in addition to his close ties to the mayor. Lightfoot has received more than $200,000 in campaign contributions from Bluhms daughter Leslie and her sister Meredith Bluhm-Wolf.

Hard Rocks bid as HR Chicago LLC comes about nine months after the corporation received the Illinois Gaming Boards OK to break ground on another casino in Rockford and about five months after it opened a casino in Gary, Indiana, not even an hours drive from Lightfoots City Hall office.

The Rockford Hard Rock, endorsed by legendary Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen, won approval despite the fact state regulators have considered disciplinary action against another company owned by one of the projects lead investors.

The city did not disclose the full list of potential investors in each project. Hard Rock representatives did not return messages seeking comment.

Ballys, which last month took control of the former Jumers Casino in Rock Island, submitted two proposals for two different potential sites: one at the Near North site of the Chicago Tribune publishing center near Chicago Avenue and Halsted; and another at the McCormick Place truck marshaling yard south of the sprawling convention center.

Both proposals call for $1.6 billion investments that include a luxury hotel, indoor and outdoor entertainment center, green space and fine dining.

In a press release, the group said minority investors have a total stake of 25%, with investors including philanthropists, business owners, sports stars, celebrities, and everyday Chicagoans.

This property will be built, owned, and operated by Chicagoans, with a focus on minority and women investors, contractors, suppliers, consultants, and employees, Ballys chairman Soo Kim said. It will generate tax revenue, create good-paying jobs, and attract international, national, and local visitors for generations to come.

The courting of casino developers marks a victory for Lightfoot in what has been a tumultuous first term on the fifth floor of City Hall.

In 2019, she did what her two mayoral predecessors could not when state lawmakers created the Chicago casino license as part of a massive gambling expansion.

But after a state-hired gambling consultant deemed the 72%-effective tax rate on the Chicago casino too onerous for any potential to turn a profit, Lightfoots team had to go back to Springfield last spring to secure legislative support to lower the tax rate to about 40%.

That was still too rich for the blood of some Las Vegas industry heavyweights such as MGM Resorts International, Wynn Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, where executives announced theyd take a pass on the citys formal request for proposals that was issued in April.

The citys cut of revenue from the 4,000-position casino will be earmarked for its desperately underfunded police and firefighter pensions.

With five bids in hand, Lightfoots office said it will create a review committee made up of a cross-section of City departments to recommend a bidder. Lightfoot will have the final call on whos put up for City Council approval.

The Illinois Gaming Board has the final say on issuing a license. The mayor has said she expects the finished casino-resort to open by 2025, though an operator can set up shop at a temporary site once the developer gets state approval.

There are already 10 casinos operating in Illinois and five more in the pipeline, not to mention four more operating in northwest Indiana, including the Horseshoe Hammond thats a half-hour drive from City Hall. Thats all on top of more than 40,000 slot machines operating in bars, restaurants and other establishments across Illinois.

City officials have contended there is room to grow the pie, or increase the size of the gaming market, with what they call a once-in-a-generation opportunity for a casino operator in the heart of a major American city.

Link:

Five bids submitted for Chicago casino, from Hard Rock, Ballys and Rush Street Gaming - Chicago Sun-Times