Md. Casinos Generate Nearly $100M In Revenue During July
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — With the summer in full swing, Maryland's casinos learn if they're hitting the jackpot or going for broke.
Amy Yensi has more on the new report.
Maryland casinos are making money, just not as much as they expected.
People come to try their luck, but just how many people are feeling lucky?
"The winning definitely helps," said Marian Yauss.
In a new report, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency says the combined revenue for the state's five casinos last month totals nearly $99 million.
Gaming officials say the winnings could have been higher, but the Horseshoe Baltimore Casino was dealt a losing hand during April's unrest.
The casino had to close early for three nights in April and two nights in May to comply with a citywide curfew.
"The perception of downtown really took a hit," said Noah Hirsch, Horseshoe Casino marketing VP.
Excluding the Horseshoe, Maryland's casinos saw a 30 percent jump in revenue from July 2014 to July 2015. Including the Horseshoe in the year to year comparison means a nearly two percent drop.
But as they say, eyes on the prize.
"We did better in July than we did in June. We did better in June than we did in May. So that continued revenue growth is extremely encouraging," said Hirsch.
From promotions to performances, the casino is pulling out all the stops to attract the crowds.
"It's right here. You come out and enjoy yourself. They've got good food, good entertainment," said Johnnie Walker.
Aside from attracting visitors to the area, more than half of the Horseshoe employees are Baltimore City residents. That's why many are hoping a full recovery is in the cards.
The Horseshoe Baltimore Casino generated more than $24 million last month.
The Maryland Live! Casino had the highest revenue in July at nearly $57 million.