Terror Vision

By Minna Sugimoto – bio | email

CHINATOWN (HawaiiNewsNow) – Dozens of people fed up with crime in Chinatown joined forces Wednesday night. They wanted the prostitutes, drug dealers and gang members to know that they were watching.

Police say citizens patrols are very effective. The volunteers arent tasked with confronting wrong-doers, but often their presence is enough to curb criminal activity. They can also identify problem areas and report them to HPD.

A man is shot dead reportedly as part of a turf war between rival gangs. Another is savagely beaten to death at an alleged gambling hall. Each time police sirens pierce the air in Honolulus Chinatown, area resident Pat Kop gets rattled.

Scared, she said. You dont want to go out at night.

Kop is among the Chinatown residents and merchants who are trying to change that. Their bright yellow and orange shirts let everyone know theyre watching.

Whether youre a person trying to perpetrate crimes or whether youre just a person walking through, you see their presence, Ofr. Richard Fikani, Honolulu Police Department, said. You either feel safe or you feel that you dont want to be here because theres someone here thats watching me.

From illegal gaming operations and drug dealing to prostitution and thefts, Chinatown has become the backdrop for a wide range of crimes.

As soon as you work on one, another one starts spiking up, Fikani said. So its just a matter of staying vigilant.

You see a lot of activity going on and everything, Kop said. Actually, nobody really bothers you, but you dont know whats going to happen.

Police say there are half-a-dozen citizens patrols serving different neighborhoods in HPDs Central Honolulu District. This was the first time they all came together.

To help keep the streets clean for everybody, Kop said.

Is it a concern that when youre not out here, people just resume their activities? this reporter asked.

Well, actually, no because this is a group walk where we have six citizens patrols walking together in mass, but normally during the week, at any given time, theres a citizens patrol walking at night, Fikani said.

The citizens patrol groups in that police district say theyd like to conduct a group walk at least once a month.

Copyright 2011 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

LOS ANGELES, Jul 28, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) –
Stratus Media Group, Inc.

/quotes/zigman/518674 SMDI
0.00%

, a live entertainment company,
today announces the appointment of Larry Peters as VP of Sponsorship
Sales and Bret Johnson as Executive Director of Branded Partnerships.
Peters and Johnson bring over 30 years of collective leadership in sales
and business development to Stratus.

“We are pleased that Larry and Bret have come aboard as new members of
our expanding company and leadership team,” said Paul Sewell, SVP Global
Marketing at Stratus. “Their combined success in sports, entertainment,
and multimedia event platforms will extend our ability to create brand
marriages with our world class live entertainment portfolio.”

Peters has been in sports and entertainment for more than 15 years. He
was instrumental in the growth of SFX/Clear Channel Entertainment and in
the development of concert based sponsorships, including content driven
integration within action sports and youth lifestyle entertainment with
ASA Entertainment and The World of Dance Tour. Peters has worked with
some of the world’s leading brands, including Anheuser-Busch, U.S.
Marine Corps, Coca Cola, and Dodge.

Peters said, “Joining Stratus Media Group represents a tremendous
opportunity for me personally and professionally. SMDI is on the cutting
edge of where the media and brand marketing landscape is headed
globally, and I am thrilled to be a part of building our future in sales
development.”

Johnson has over fifteen years of experience in brand alliances with
sports media and building consumer touch points. He began his career as
Co-Producer and host, while spearheading Sales & Marketing at Planet X
Television, a pioneer in action sports programming, combining celebrity
driven sports and music content at a time when extreme sports and
reality TV were burgeoning. Most recently, Johnson served as Vice
President of Sales and Marketing at Rockstar Energy Drink, Inc. He
created new distribution partnerships and paired the brand with
blockbuster artists like the Black Eyed Peas and Green Day, and
professional sports teams including the NFL and NBA.

“We’re in a dynamic developmental stage as a globally minded, fast
growing company,” said Johnson, “I thrive on creating partnerships that
have meaning as we extend our commitment to change the world of live
entertainment.”

Both Peters and Johnson work out of the SMDI Los Angeles office.

STRATUS MEDIA GROUP, INC.

Headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, with offices in Los Angeles,
California; New York City, New York; Geneva, Switzerland; and Perugia,
Italy, Stratus Media Group, Inc. (SMDI) is an owner, operator,
developer, producer, and marketer of live entertainment events. In
addition, the company owns Stratus Rewards Visa White Card, an
ultra-exclusive consumer rewards marketing and redemption program,
providing premium redemption benefits to members in the form of VIP
event access, luxury trips, private jet travel, luxury automobiles,
high-end merchandise and other rewards.

www.stratusmediagroup.com
www.stratusmotorsports.com
www.stratusrewards.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release relating to plans, strategies,
projections of results, and other statements that are not descriptions
of historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the
Securities Acts of 1933 and 1934. Forward-looking information is
inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results could
differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of
factors. Although the company’s management believes that the
expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable,
it cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. The
company has no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Stratus Media Group, Inc.

Stratus Media Group, Inc.
Jamie Schaible
805-884-9977
jamies@stratusmediagroup.com

www.stratusmediagroup.com

Copyright Business Wire 2011

/quotes/zigman/518674

Add SMDI to portfolio

SMDI

Stratus Media Group Inc.

$
0.60

0.00
0.00%

Volume: 2,615
July 29, 2011 2:09p

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) -

The federal gambling corruption trial will continue in downtown Montgomery.Thursday morning, Judge Myron Thompson declined all motions for acquittal and dismissal of chargesagainst all defendants.

The decision meansall charges againstMacon County casino owner Milton McGregor and eight other defendants areupheld, for now..

Federal prosecutors believe the defendantsschemed to buy and sell votes onlegislation to allowgambling in Alabama.

Thompson, presiding of a trial in its eighth week,admitted hehas reservations about some of the charges in the 39-count indictment and some concerns about some of the defendants in the trial.

The judge saidhewill rule on the conspiracy charges at the end of the presentation of evidence.

The prosecution rested its case on Tuesday. Wednesday wasspent hearing argumentsfrom the defense on why manycharges should be thrown out. The jury was not present during that time.

The defense now gets its chance to present its case.

CLICK HERE to visit WSFA.COMs page dedicated to this trial.

Copyright 2011 WSFA 12 News. All rights reserved.

BOSTON (TheStreet Ratings) — Green Mountain Coffee Roasters(GMCR) is scheduled to report quarterly earnings after the market close on Wednesday. Analysts are expecting the specialty coffee provider to benefit from new partnerships with coffee giants Dunkin Donuts(DNKN) and Starbucks(SBUX).

Americans craving for coffee is growing and that should be a boon for Starbucks, UBS senior analyst David Palmer told CNBC Thursday.

One thing about coffee in this country is, behavior is shifting, he said. People are moving toward the good stuff.

That means that if consumers are not using single-cup coffee machines to brew their joe to their liking at home, they are going to places that will do it for them. Coffee demand helped Dunkin Brands

The massive gambling expansion bill Illinois lawmakers approved in late May but have since managed to shield from Gov. Pat Quinns veto pen via a crafty maneuver is going to resurface.

Probably it will be in the fall. In the meantime, Quinn has to figure out how many, if any, new casinos hes willing to accept. According to a source, hes getting opinions from all corners.

Paying visits to the governors office since the legislation passed: Illinois Gaming Board Chairman and bill opponent Aaron Jaffe; Des Plaines casino owner Neil Bluhm, who says he is neutral to supportive of the bill; Chicago Mayor and expansion proponent Rahm Emanuel; the mayors of Joliet, Aurora, East St. Louis and Peoria, who met jointly with Quinn and whose cities have existing casinos likely to be hurt by an expansion; and a nine-person delegation from Danville, led by Mayor Scott Eisenhauer, which would land a casino license if an expansion is approved.

The newly formed Advisory Board for internet gambling which is headed up by some recognizable names such as, former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge, Internet Safety Expert parry Aftab and Greg Raymer a Professional poker player has publicly stated that they fully support congress and their stance on illegal internet gambling but have also stated that they are determined to make online poker safe and secure for American players who enjoy playing for money online. Sounds a bit confusing to me, how can the same group of people support both sides of the coin?

FairPlay USA stated that congress has defined what illegal gambling is and they stand by, support the laws, and will full enforce them, however they also will be providing the framework for strict regulatory laws for online poker. FairPlay USA is based out of Washington DC, and it has plans to grow as an organization and include members from the law enforcement field, consumer protection agency, child safety and the gaming industry including some of the most famous and popular poker players.

The advisory board’s first action to be addressed is a petition to Congress to crack down on offshore illegal gambling sites and begin to establish strict regulation in the US for online poker with the focus on integrity and safety. This petition is for all Americans to let congress hear their voice. Millions of American citizens enjoy playing poker online and with FairPlay USA, they can finally have their chance to make a difference and help those who are trying to pass a bill legalizing online poker within the US.

The three main concerns that FairPlay USA will be addressing are law enforcement of unregulated and illegal sites, child protection and the rights of adult online poker players to enjoy the game of poker in a regulated, safe and secure site.

Professional poker player Greg Raymer, a member of the advisory board stated, “Americans are passionate about online poker and their rights should be respected and the games should be fair and regulated.” “I’ll do everything I can to support the rights of all American gamblers and make it clear that any adult has the legal right to enjoy the game of poker from the safety of their own homes.

By Patricia C. Senior Editor CasinoScamReport.com

Tune In to Hep C Benefit Concert Raises Over $250,000 for Community-Based Groups Supporting People with Chronic Hepatitis C

WHITEHOUSE STATION, NJ, July 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — In support of World Hepatitis Day today, Merck (NYSE: MRK) (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada) reported updates on three patient-focused programs to support the hepatitis C community. These programs are part of the companys Hope Against Hepatitis C initiative, Mercks ongoing commitment to increase awareness, prevention and diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. They are the latest examples of how Merck is working to deliver on its mission to help the world be well.

To view the multimedia content associated with this release please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/51199-tune-into-hep-c-awareness/

Approximately 130 to 170 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis C, a potentially serious disease that can damage the liver over time and lead to cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease and liver cancer. In the United States, chronic hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne viral disease; approximately 3.2 million Americans have chronic HCV infection.

While rates of new infection for chronic hepatitis C are dropping, the number of people with existing infection who are starting to develop serious complications, such as advanced liver disease and liver cancer, is expected to increase over the next 10 to 20 years. As a result, there is a growing need for increased awareness and education to help ensure people with chronic HCV infection are diagnosed and seek the care of a physician.

Tune In to Hep C Benefit Concert Raises funds for ALF and NVHR

Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Legend Gregg Allman and GRAMMYreg; winner Natalie Cole performed last night at the Tune In to Hep C benefit concert in New York, raising more than $250,000 to support testing, awareness programs, and services for people with chronic HCV infection. The proceeds will be provided to the American Liver Foundation (ALF) and the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR). Special guests who performed at the concert included Phil Lesh of the Grateful Dead; David Crosby and Graham Nash of Crosby, Stills and Nash; and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, who came out to support the cause and help turn up the volume around chronic hepatitis C. The Allman Brothers Band headlined the event to support Allman in his efforts to raise awareness of chronic hepatitis C.

The concert was part of Tune In to Hep C, an awareness campaign recently launched by Merck and ALF to drive awareness of this silent and progressive disease, and encourage people to talk to their doctors or healthcare providers about their options. To help drive this message, attendees at the concert previewed a new public service announcement (PSA) featuring Allman, which is set to hit the airwaves in the coming weeks. To view the PSA and learn more about the awareness campaign, please visit www.TuneInToHepC.com.

The outpouring of community support around the campaign and the benefit concert has been remarkable, and we are grateful for the generous contribution, which will go towards helping people at risk and those infected with the chronic hepatitis C virus, said Newton Guerin, acting CEO and chief operating officer, ALF. However, the night was about more than the money being raised. It was about changing the negative perception of chronic hepatitis C and reminding all of us that as individuals and communities, we must take action to fight this serious public health issue.

I was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C more than 10 years ago, when it was relatively unknown and rarely discussed, said Martha Saly, director of NVHR and former hepatitis C sufferer. That changed last night when all those legendary voices came together to encourage people with hepatitis C to not let stigma or fear stand in the way of talking to their doctor.

Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C Testing Initiative Takes Place at Ballparks

To encourage more people to get tested for hepatitis C, Merck, in partnership with ALF, Coalition on Positive Health Empowerment and OraSure Technologies (Nasdaq: OSUR), has launched Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C. Working with participating baseball teams in Chicago, Houston and St. Louis, this initiative will offer free hepatitis C testings and educational information at baseball stadiums to encourage people to get educated on the facts and tested for hepatitis C.

Testing events already scheduled include:

• Chicago Cubs: August 6th, August 23rd
• Chicago White Sox: August 21st, September 8th, September 13th
• Houston Astros: August 20th, September 13th, September 23rd
• St. Louis Cardinals: August 22nd, September 5th, September 24th

To learn more about Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C and other testing dates, please visit www.AllAboutHepC.com/baseball.

Support for Global Hepatitis Initiatives

To further support World Hepatitis Day, Merck has provided a grant to the World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA), a leading global organization dedicated to preventing the spread of viral hepatitis and improving the lives of people living with the disease through better awareness, diagnosis and access to treatment and care. The organization is embarking on a variety of public education, awareness and policy initiatives to combat stigma and discrimination, while working toward developing a global viral hepatitis strategy with the World Health Organization.

Merck has been working in the hepatitis C field for 30 years, and we take our commitment to the community very seriously as a key part of our efforts to help the world be well, said Patrick Bergstedt, senior vice president and general manager, Infectious Diseases, Global Human Health, Merck. It is our hope that these programs, conducted in partnership with the global public health community, will have a lasting and meaningful impact on the prevention, diagnosis and management of chronic hepatitis C.

About Merck

Todays Merck is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. Merck is known as MSD outside the United States and Canada. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and consumer care and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. For more information, visit www.merck.com.

Forward-Looking Statement

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the merger between Merck and Schering-Plough, including future financial and operating results, the combined companys plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of Mercks management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements: the possibility that the expected synergies from the merger of Merck and Schering-Plough will not be realized, or will not be realized within the expected time period; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation; the risk that the businesses will not be integrated successfully; disruption from the merger making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; Mercks ability to accurately predict future market conditions; dependence on the effectiveness of Mercks patents and other protections for innovative products; the risk of new and changing regulation and health policies in the United States and internationally and the exposure to litigation and/or regulatory actions.

Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in Mercks 2010 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the companys other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SECs Internet site (www.sec.gov).

SOURCE Merck

MINNEAPOLIS, Jul 27, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) –
Marking its first entry into the growing pure-sport side-by-side market,
Arctic Cat Inc.

/quotes/zigman/60929/quotes/nls/acat ACAT
+8.36%

today officially introduced the all-new
Wildcat V-Twin 1000i H.O. The Wildcat is a full-production version of
what was previously reserved for off-road race vehicles, offering the
largest displacement engine in its class, industry-leading suspension
travel, 13 inches of ground clearance and a full-perimeter frame. It
debuts as the industry’s most potent pure-sport recreational off-road
vehicle (ROV), inspired by the unforgiving terrain of the Baja 1000
off-road race, engineered to attack obstacles with precision and
control, and crafted in America by a company dedicated to performance
and quality.

“We are excited to enter a new market segment with a pure-sport hot rod
that redefines what’s possible in a production off-road vehicle,” said
Claude Jordan, Arctic Cat president and chief executive officer. “The
Wildcat unquestionably raises the bar and sets a new standard for
pure-sport ROVs.”

The 1000i H.O. engine powering the new Wildcat is the largest
displacement engine in the pure-sport category, and the ideal match for
its industry-leading suspension and chassis. Built in the USA by Arctic
Cat at its St. Cloud, Minnesota facility, the 951cc V-Twin, SOHC
4-stroke with electronic fuel injection (EFI) has proven itself on the
Prowler XTZ. On the Wildcat, the 1000i H.O. has been tuned to deliver
even stronger acceleration and horsepower.

The Wildcat’s long-suspension rivals those used on off-road race
buggies. The foundation for the Wildcat’s suspension is a full-perimeter
frame that sets a new standard in strength, rigidity and durability.
Usually found only in off-road race trucks, the chassis is constructed
from high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel with a full-perimeter
exoskeleton design that’s a first in the pure-sport ROV class. The
all-new Duro Kaden 14-inch tires also were developed specifically for
the Wildcat, utilizing an elongated tread pattern designed to extend to
the tires’ shoulder, providing excellent cornering, traction,
performance and durability in rough conditions.

Yet another first-in-class technology in the pure-sport category is the
addition of Arctic Cat’s variable assist electronic power steering (EPS)
on the Wildcat, which delivers even greater steering control and
responsiveness. The EPS system measures steering input force, tire
resistance and vehicle speed, and then provides the appropriate assist
to the steering column through an electric motor. The power assist is
particularly noticeable at low speeds and in four-wheel drive, where it
requires less steering effort to change direction or navigate tough
obstacles like washouts, rocks and mud.

Arctic Cat engineers designed the Wildcat’s interior for optimal
comfort, control and visibility, with features such as contoured,
high-back bucket seats, an infinitely adjustable tilt-steering wheel,
and convenient digital and analog gauges. Getting in and out of the
Wildcat is quick and easy, thanks to a tube-frame door with integrated
nets.

The all-new Wildcat is available in two automotive-style paint color
choices: Black Metallic or Arctic Green Metallic. Its class-leading LED
headlights and taillights provide brighter, more energy-efficient
visibility. The Wildcat’s rear cargo bed has the largest capacity in its
class with a 300 lb. payload to carry a cooler and additional fuel
containers. In addition, a 12V accessory outlet is located in the center
console for GPS or cell phone adapters. The alternator capacity has been
increased to accommodate accessory lights, radios or winches.

Arctic Cat will offer more than 50 Wildcat-specific parts and
accessories for the ultimate in customization. These easy-to-install
products and upgrades can be used to personalize and compliment the
lines of the ultimate pure-sport ROV.

About Arctic Cat Inc.

Arctic Cat Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain
vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles under the Arctic Cat(R) brand name, as
well as related parts, garments and accessories. Its common stock is
traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol
“ACAT.” More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available
at
www.arcticcat.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe
harbor for certain forward-looking statements. The Company’s Annual
Report, as well as the Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Report on Form
8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the
Company’s press releases and oral statements made with the approval of
an authorized executive officer, contain forward-looking statements that
reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and
financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to
certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to
differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. The
words “aim,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate” and
other expressions that indicate future events and trends identify
forward-looking statements. Actual future results and trends may differ
materially from historical results or those anticipated depending on a
variety of factors, including, but not limited to: product mix and
volume; competitive pressure on sales, pricing and sales incentives;
increase in material or production cost which cannot be recouped in
product pricing; changes in the sourcing of engines; interruption of
dealer floorplan financing; warranty expenses and product recalls;
foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; product liability claims
and other legal proceedings in excess of reserves or insured amounts;
environmental and product safety regulatory activity; effects of the
weather; general economic conditions and political changes; interest
rate changes; consumer demand and confidence; and those set forth in the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2011,
under heading “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” The Company does not undertake
any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking
statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or
otherwise.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available:

http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6808140&lang=en

SOURCE: Arctic Cat Inc.

INVESTOR INQUIRIES:
Arctic Cat Inc.
Timothy C. Delmore, 763-354-1800
Chief Financial Officer
or
Padilla Speer Beardsley Inc.
Shawn Brumbaugh, 612-455-1754
or
MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Arctic Cat Inc.
Kale Wainer, 763-354-1799

Copyright Business Wire 2011

/quotes/zigman/60929/quotes/nls/acat

Add ACAT to portfolio

ACAT

Arctic Cat Inc.

$
16.98

+1.31
+8.36%

Volume: 262,704
July 28, 2011 4:00p

Shifting his position on expanded gaming, Gov. Deval L. Patrick today said that he is now willing to accept the licensing of one slot machine parlor as part of legislation to also license three large casinos around the state.

Mr. Patrick vetoed legislation for three casinos and slot parlors at two of the state’s four racetracks last summer, based on his objections to licensing slot parlors.

At that time the governor had offered to support the legislation, if it included only one slot parlor at a race track, but insisted it be open to competitive bidders besides the existing four racetracks in the state. Legislative leaders however rejected the proposed compromise.

Afterwards the governor said that compromise was offered in a last-minute attempt to gain approval of the legislation, but was no longer on the table.

In a radio appearance today the governor said that he will now support a single slot parlor license either at one of the four race tracks in the state or at a separate location in the state, as part of an expanded gaming bill that also would license three resort-style casinos.

House and Senate leaders have said they plan to push for passage of legislation for casinos and race track slot machine parlors in September, following their August recess. Majorities of both chambers approved legislation for casinos and two racetrack slot parlors last year.

In recent months the governor has shied away from the issue, saying expansion of gambling and licensing of casinos and slot parlors here are not high on his list of priorities.

Today, however, during an appearance on WTKK-FM radio, he said he is now willing to go along with a bill to license three casinos and an additional slot parlor license as long as the slot parlor license is open to public competitive bidding.

If it helps get a deal, I will accept one slot parlor that is competitively bid anywhere in the Commonwealth. I think that is a framework for a deal, the governor said.

The governor first introduced legislation to license three resort casinos in 2007, during his first year in office, but the legislation was rejected by the House, then led by House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi, a gaming opponent.

Current House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, D-Winthrop is an major advocate for casinos and licensing of slot parlors at two existing race tracks. He has insisted that two racinos be licensed at existing racetracks. Both Suffolk Downs and Wonderland are in his House district.

Wonderland, a former dog racing track in Revere, and the former dog track in Raynham both offer simulcast off-track race betting but no longer hold live races. Thoroughbred racing continues at Suffolk Downs on 80 days each year, and harness racing is offered on at Plainridge Racecourse in Plainville. Both of those horse tracks also offer simulcast gaming.

Mr. DeLeo’s spokesman Seth Gitell said today that the speaker is prepared to compromise to get a bill passed, but did not offer specifics. In the interest of creating 15,000 jobs and much-needed new revenue, Speaker DeLeo has repeatedly expressed his willingness to compromise on a number of key issues, including slots, he said.

The governor’s statement drew criticism from gaming opponents.

Former Massachusetts Attorney General Scott Harshbarger, founder of Citizens for a Stronger Massachusetts, a critic of casino and slot parlor legislation, warned passage of the legislation would open the door to ever-expanding gaming enterprises in the state.

It is shocking that casino supporters think they can limit the number of slot parlors or casinos once they open the gates to vastly expanded gambling, Mr. Harshbarger said. That sort of naiveté shows the secret, ongoing negotiating sessions are not addressing the many ways this industry will hurt the fabric of our commonwealth.

House and Senate leaders have been holding private discussions in recent weeks focused on plans for legislation identical to the bill rejected by the governor last year.
That bill would allow slot parlors at two existing racetracks and licensing of one resort-style casino in each of three zones in the state — one in Western Massachusetts, another in the Boston metropolitan area and a third in Central or Southeastern parts of the state.

Legislative leaders and the governor need to have this debate in the light of day and must openly address the many issues that have changed since the last true analysis of casino impacts was done – from economic costs and benefits to public safety, law enforcement and regulatory structures, Mr. Harshbarger said. Ramming through a misguided proposal with little true debate will only worsen public mistrust in state government.

Meanwhile the governor maintained there was no doubt that expanded gaming was going to come to the state. We are past the point where there is or is not going to be expanded gaming, Patrick said. We’re talking about how.

Based on that proposal casino developers have been formulating plans for proposed casinos at numerous sites including Palmer, Charlton, Marlboro, Milford, New Bedford and Boston.