New racino developing 'culture of fun,' adding live bands, more hours

AUSTINTOWN

Officials at the Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course don’t, as a rule, discuss money or profits or customer numbers.

But they can measure the first month in Austintown with other numbers: 65,000 sodas. About 50,000 Marquee Rewards members. 35,000 beers. 6,500 pounds of french fries. 6,000 cars parked by valet.

What’s it all add up to?

“We are very happy with the facility, its operation and the staff,” said Scott Frost, director of marketing for Hollywood Gaming. “We’ve already developed a cohesive culture of fun, and this is translating to high service levels for our guests.”

The racino raced off to its start Sept. 17, and the area will see the opening of the one-mile thoroughbred racetrack Nov. 24.

The racino continues to hire workers and to finish construction on the horse barns and racetrack.

Live bands were added Thursday nights for the next month to perform in the H Lounge, and the Skybox Sports Bar also will open an hour earlier.

This is in addition to the high amount of guests signing up for the Marquee Rewards program.

“We were [surprised],” Frost said. “It’s been very interesting. You know, the best thing that we could have done was to offer those early sign-ups to help with lines.”

The Ohio Lottery Commission reported Oct. 7 that the racino took in $3.9 million in net winnings after $46.8 million credits were played over a 14-day period. Among the jackpots won, there are a $6,429, two $8,000, a $10,577, and a $20,000.

Read more about the Valley's new entertainment facility in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.