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Racino launches “Get In The Zone” responsible gambling week
By Kalea Hall
AUSTINTOWN
Though only 1 percent of the population is considered to have a gambling problem, the Austintown racino is reminding its patrons this week to stay responsible.
On Monday, Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course leaders, along with state and local officials, kicked off its “Get In The Zone” Responsible Gaming Education Week.
“It’s a daily commitment for us,” said Mike Galle, general manager of the Austintown racino.
This is the racino’s second Responsible Gaming Education Week, a national effort led by the American Gaming Association. It continues through Friday.
During the week, Hollywood Gaming will have activities for its customers to partake in that focus on responsible gaming.
Representatives from Meridian Community Care will be at the racino throughout the week to provide information on gambling counseling.
Today, a ventriloquist and his puppet will throw out the first pitch at the Mahoning Valley Scrappers game. The mascot, Willie, of the racino’s “Get In The Zone” responsible gaming theme is adapted from a 1960’s “Twilight Zone” episode.
From 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, customers have a chance to win a prize if they correctly answer responsible gaming trivia questions at the promotions table inside the H Lounge.
On Monday, state Sen. Joe Schiavoni of Boardman, D-33rd, Karen Russo, outreach and problem gambling coordinator for the Ohio Lottery Commission, Mahoning County Commissioner Dave Ditzler, Austintown Township Trustee Ken Carano and Sheriff Jerry Greene all mentioned the importance of gambling addiction education at a Monday press conference.
“We know it’s an addiction, and we are dealing with all kinds of addictions out there,” Greene said. “We would just like to stress as law enforcement to please be responsible.”
Carano stressed what the racino has done for the local economy and quality of life in the township since it opened in the fall 2014 with more than 800 video lottery terminals and a 1-mile thoroughbred racetrack.
“The gaming facility has enhanced this region as an entertainment destination drawing tourists and local citizens,” Carano said. “This has been accomplished without a burden to our [safety services].”
Information on National Problem Gaming Awareness Week can be found at www.americangaming.org.