Gambling in the USA
MGCB Executive Director Meets with Flint City Officials to Discuss Ways to Combat Illegal Gaming
In an effort to combat illegal gaming activities, Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director Henry Williams recently met with Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley and State Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint) to discuss strategies to help deter and crack down on illegal gaming operations in the city.
During their August 29 conversation, the officials also talked about the impact of storefront casinos and illegal gaming on residents and how such establishments are a nuisance for the city, tarnishing the reputations of regulated, legitimate gaming establishments.
âAs a regulator, itâs important to me to have face-to-face conversations with area leaders so that we can share our knowledge and gain a more comprehensive understanding of illegal gaming issues, especially from their local perspective. I look forward to working with Mayor Neeley on the cityâs efforts to prevent individuals from reopening a place of business under a new name in a location that was previously cited for illegal gaming operation concerns, minimize risks to his community from such establishments, and help protect Flint residents from harm,â Williams said.
A week before the leadersâ meeting, the MGCB seized 50 gambling devices and $13,260 in suspected gambling proceeds on August 23 from an alleged illegal storefront casino that was operating under the name of The Flint Arcade, located at 3301 Corunna Road in Flint. Authorities had previously conducted a raid at the same location a year earlier, on Aug. 18, 2022, when the MGCB investigated suspected illegal gambling at The Cellular Vault. That search yielded 43 computers used for gambling and $2,572.48 in winnings and gambling proceeds.
âIt is important to protect the Flint community from predatory illegal gaming operations, and I thank Director Williams for his continued partnership in this effort. These unwelcome operations threaten public safety by creating environments where other criminal activity can thrive,â Mayor Neeley said.
âBy working together to implement comprehensive measures â from strengthening laws and regulatory frameworks to raising awareness about the issue of illegal gaming machines â we can help reduce the prevalence of illegal gaming in our communities. I look forward to continuing this conversation with MGCB Executive Director Williams and appreciate the time he took to visit Flint and discuss this important issue, and I will do what I can to help advance any necessary changes to the law in my capacity serving with the Michigan Legislature,â Rep. Neeley said.
Unlicensed casinos, unauthorized online gambling platforms, underground sports-betting operations, or any other form of wagering that is not regulated by the MGCB are all considered forms of illegal gaming. As a result of MGCB investigations from January 2015 through July 2023, a total of 1195 illegal machines and $470,401.98 have been seized. Additionally, since November 2022, 48 locations have received cease-and-desist letters involving 105 illegal machines.
âI appreciated the opportunity to meet with Mayor Neeley and Rep. Neeley in Flint and to share information with him about how the MGCB can assist with investigations and raids on alleged illegal gaming operations. Illegal gaming is a widespread problem that is not unique to Michigan, but we are prepared to act and will hold bad actors accountable who are caught breaking the law. The agency is committed to fighting illegal online gaming, pop-up illegal casinos, and the proliferation of illegal gaming machines in gas stations, bars, and other locally owned establishments â and I look forward to seeing what the Michigan Legislature can do to help us with these issues,â said Williams, who was recently selected as a finalist in the Regulator of the Year category of the 2023 American Gambling Awards.
Gambling in the USA
NOVOMATIC shines at G2E 2024: A street smart showcase of innovation and engagement
In line with its commitment to innovation, NOVOMATIC unveiled several ground breaking product launches that left a significant impact on the gaming industry. The V.I.P. Xâ˘Â cabinet series emerged as one of the main attractions, highlighting models such as the V.I.P. X Royal⢠1.85, V.I.P. X Dream⢠3.43, and the V.I.P. X Lounge⢠2.32. The crown jewel of the presentation was the V.I.P. Galaxy⢠2.65, setting a new benchmark for luxury cabinets with its perfect blend of comfort and state-of-the-art gaming technology. Featuring high-definition screens and immersive sound systems, the fully adjustable lounge design promises an unparalleled gaming experience, leaving customers eager to introduce these innovations onto their gaming floors.
The unveiling of a new LED wall as part of the DIAMOND Xâ˘Â series, including the DIAMOND X⢠1.55J, showcased the U.S.-style designed Piggy Prizes title. The modern and interactive design sent a clear message: NOVOMATIC Americas has fully arrived, enhancing its reputation for premium entertainment experiences.
Groundbreaking Progressives and a Robust VGT Lineup
NOVOMATIC introduced a variety of THUNDER CASH⢠GOLD Progressives featuring new titles like Charming Ladyâs Boom Coinsâ˘Â and Red Amazon Explosionâ˘. The Globe Link⢠Xtension Volume 1 & 2 also attracted considerable interest, marking a significant impact with several new themes. The excitement surrounding these progressive games was palpable, bolstered by innovative math models and enticing bonus structures.
The VGT product range received special emphasis, particularly with the Street-Smart-themed area dedicated to highlight the themes and flexible assortment of cabinet styles for markets in Illinois, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, and Georgia. This dynamic showcase reinforced NOVOMATICâs commitment to providing leading solutions in performance and player appeal within the VGT sector. Featuring both NOVOLINEâ˘Â and Magic HD customer favorite themes, this area showed the new game mixes on DIAMOND X⢠2.32, BLACK EDITION II 3.27 & BLACK EDITION II 1.49J, V.I.P. X Lounge⢠2.32 and FUNMASTER 2.27. Specifically in Illinois, featuring the Magic HD game mix consisting of the Overlay Magic Play Lock & Spin feature, and the new Poker3â˘Â multi-hand video poker mix. NOVOLINEâ˘Â games were shown on the Black Edition II 1.49J cabinet with popular games like ULTRA BOOSTâ˘Â and Money Partyâ˘Â themes. Georgia Skill showed three new game titles in the Magic HD mix while more new titles lined the streets of the NOVOMATIC booth.
Advancements in Sports Betting and Casino Management
In addition to its product line, NOVOMATIC showed their cutting-edge sports betting kiosks including the ActionBook⢠Edge 1.43J, and ActionBook⢠Plus 2.27 models. With advanced graphics and rapid processing capabilities, these kiosks offer operators unmatched flexibility and performance. The premiere of the award-winning NOVOVISIONâ˘Â casino management system was another highlight, leveraging biometric technology for enhanced player recognition and streamlined operations. Already acknowledged as a âBest CMS/Software Productâ at the European Casino Awards, this system generated significant buzz regarding its potential to revolutionize the gaming landscape.
Industry Recognition for Creative and Commercial Success
The combination of NOVOMATICâs innovative product launches and captivating booth design earned widespread acclaim. The company was recognized for its Street-Smart booth, praised for creativity, interactivity, and the memorable experiences it fostered. Industry experts and attendees alike hailed NOVOMATICâs presence at G2E 2024 as one of the most impactful.
Alexander Merwald, CEO at NOVOMATIC Americas, stated, “G2E 2024 was an incredible success for NOVOMATIC. We were proud to showcase the V.I.P. X⢠cabinet series â Our ‘Street Games, Street Smart’ focus resonated strongly, as we demonstrated how our tailored solutions meet the real-world needs of both casino and VGT operators. The response from customers reaffirmed NOVOMATIC’s position as a leader in delivering innovation, performance, and market-specific strategies for North America.”
Thomas Schmalzer, VP of Global Sales, and Product Management at NOVOMATIC AG, added, “The product diversity and innovation showcased at G2E 2024 have been enthusiastically received by both operators and players. Our V.I.P. X⢠series and extensive range of progressives reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering premium solutions to the global market.”
With new partnerships established and product placements secured at G2E 2024, NOVOMATIC is primed to expand its market presence across North America. The success at this yearâs expo signifies a vital step forward in the companyâs mission to set the standard for gaming entertainment.
Gambling in the USA
Century Casinos Announces Opening Date for New Land-Based Century Casino & Hotel Caruthersville, MO
Century Casinos Inc. announced that its new land-based casino and hotel in Caruthersville, Missouri will open on November 1, 2024.
This news follows the Missouri Gaming Commissionâs approval to transfer the Century Casino & Hotel Caruthersville gaming license from a temporary pavilion to the new land-based location.
The new Century Casino & Hotel Caruthersville will have 599 slot machines and nine live table games, a 50% increase in gaming positions compared with the temporary location. The number of hotel rooms will double to 74. The construction of this new land-based casino and hotel started in December 2022 and will be finalized on time and on budget with an estimated project cost of $51.9 million, which has been funded by VICI Properties Inc. (VICI). VICI will own the real estate improvements associated with the Caruthersville project, which will become part of the Companyâs triple net master lease agreement with subsidiaries of VICI. Annual rent under the lease will increase by approximately $4.2 million.
The opening of the new land-based casino will be celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event at 11:30 a.m. Central Time on Friday, November 1, and a flurry of activities over the opening weekend.
Gambling in the USA
Andrew Cardno to Deliver Keynote at November Gaming Conference in Phoenix: âHow are Technology Advancements Impacting Decision Making and Driving Innovation in Gaming?â
The gaming industry continues to evolve with the rapid integration of advanced technologies, offering new pathways for innovation and decision-making. Andrew Cardno, Chief Technology Officer of Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), will deliver a keynote address titled âHow are Technology Advancements Impacting Decision Making and Driving Innovation in Gaming?â at this yearâs premier gaming conference, taking place on November 12th and 13th in Phoenix, Arizona.
Cardno, a leading expert with over two decades of experience in gaming and technology, will explore how advancements such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data-driven solutions are reshaping decision-making processes within the gaming industry. His address will provide actionable insights for professionals seeking to stay ahead in this fast-paced environment.
âTechnology is no longer just an enabler; itâs the driving force behind innovation in gaming,â said Andrew Cardno. âAt this yearâs conference, I will delve into how these advancements can empower industry leaders to make better, faster decisions and capitalize on new opportunities for growth.â
Mark Pace, President of the International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA), praised Cardnoâs expertise: âAndrew Cardno has a deep understanding of how technology is transforming the gaming industry. His ability to translate complex innovations into practical, strategic insights makes him the ideal keynote speaker. His work continues to inspire and guide decision-makers across the gaming world.â
The conference, held in Phoenix on November 12th and 13th, promises to be a hub of cutting-edge discussions and networking opportunities, bringing together top leaders to explore the future of gaming.
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