Austintown racino spokesman: 'Time to start thinking of this project as done'

AUSTINTOWN

Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course officially opens its doors Sept. 17.

Penn National, parent company of Hollywood Gaming, made the announcement Wednesday afternoon, six weeks from the opening of the racino’s casino section. Bob Tenenbaum, spokesman for Penn National, said a time has not been determined for that day.

He added, “It certainly finalizes everything. I think it tells people that it’s time to start thinking of this project as done.”

The racino has been operating under a temporary license from the Ohio Lottery Commission that was granted June 11. Danielle Frizzi-Babb, a spokeswoman for the commission, explained that allowed the racino to make hires, lay out its floor and do other things, except make sales.

“They will have their operating license in hand when the doors open,” she said.

Tenenbaum said Hollywood Gaming will host a controlled demonstration a few days before opening with a list of invited guests. Staff and representatives from the lottery commission will be there that day to make sure everything runs smoothly. All proceeds from that night will be donated to area charities, yet to be determined.

Read more about the facility and the opening in Thursday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.