Picov Downs Introduces 800 Slots - AJAX, ONTARIO - Picov Downs announced the introduction of 800 slots to their racetrack, however the expansion is in doubt with protests from the larger Metropolitan Toronto racinos like Woodbine. A 'wait and see' scenario here.

Maine Votes ''No'' to Casino Gambling - YORK, MAINE - Residents of York, Maine soundly rejected the idea of legalized casino gambling in a nonbinding referendum held on May 24. York voters were asked on a local ballot: "Do you favor legalized casino gambling in sourthern Maine?" The resulting vote was 3,057 against casinos and 767 to allow them. In an earlier poll, voters in the town of Berwick also opposed casino gambling by a 302-172 tally. Polls are also scheduled in other towns including Eliot, North Berwick, Wells and Kittery. The casino issue follows a proposal by two Maine Indian tribes to build a Foxwoods-style resort and casino in southern Maine.

Reno Pushes for River, Kayaking Project - RENO, NV - Nevada’s Commission of Tourism is pushing for a $5.7 million development project to improve the city’s Truckee River in an effort to boost tourism and diversify the local economy. Improvements would include building boat landings and removing abandoned concrete piers, making the river safer and more fun for recreation. "The Truckee River is going to become one of the major destinations for the state of Nevada," Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt predicted. The centerpiece of the project is the River Park at Wingfield, a proposed $1.5 million kayaking course that would attract national competitions to the area. The commission estimates a 2-day kayaking event could draw more than 4,000 people and bring in nearly $1 million, without considering money spent gambling. Increased guided rafting tours on the river could bring in an additional $2.46 million a year. Money for the project would come from the $40 million arts and recreation bond the City Council will place on the Nov. 5 ballot for approval. With funding, construction could begin on the course in August 2003.