Pennsylvania casino operators want table games

HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania -- As reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Yes to table games at state casinos, but no to video poker machines in thousands of bars and clubs statewide.

"That was the view today of Timothy Wilmott, president of Penn National Gaming Inc., which runs a racetrack/casino 20 miles northeast of here plus several other casinos in other states.

"Two other casino executives -- from the Pittsburgh area -- agreed about bringing table games to Pennsylvania casinos but wouldn't comment on Gov. Ed Rendell's controversial plan to allow 80,000 or so video poker machines in bars and taverns across the state.

"Ed Fasulo, president of the Rivers Casino, which will open in Pittsburgh in August, and Mike Graninger, general manager of The Meadows, which will open its enlarged, permanent casino in April, said table games would increase employment and the state's income tax base.

"But they tactfully sidestepped commenting on Mr. Rendell's idea for video poker to raise tuition relief for college students..."