New Bangor Slots Having a Bang-up Month

AUGUSTA, Maine – as reported by the Blethen Maine Newspapers: “Slot machine gambling in Maine has gotten off to a multi-million dollar start.

“Figures released Tuesday by regulators show customers are pumping an average of $1.2 million a day into the machines at Hollywood Slots in Bangor.

“The first day the slots spun was the most lucrative, with people betting $1.76 million on Nov. 4. Crowds continue to come. Hollywood Slots saw more then $8 million pumped into the machines during the week that ended Sunday, according a Maine Gambling Control Board report.

"I'm moderately surprised that they were as high as they are. But after walking through the casino one time and seeing the enthusiasm, I guess I understand," said George McHale, chairman of the gambling control board. Millions of dollars bet at the slots means hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue for the parlor, the state, and the harness racing industry in the first weeks of operation.

“Regulators say 87 percent to 95 percent of the money gambled in the machines gets returned in the form of winnings.

“The remaining money gets divided among several parties. Penn National Gaming, the operator of the parlor, receives the largest cut. The board's report shows in the first 10 days of operation Penn National received $435,000.

“The state, the harness racing industry, agricultural fairs, and other special funds received a total of $403,000 over that same period. This money is divided under a percentage system set up in state law.

“Members of the gambling control board deemed the start of slot gambling in Maine a success during a meeting Tuesday….”