Foxwoods Development Company to renovate and reopen the former Royal Oasis Resort in Grand Bahama Island
CONTACT:
Bruce MacDonald
Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
860-312-4417
bmacdonald@mptn-nsn.gov
Patrick J. Power, Director
Harcourt Developments
+353-1-4753928, or +353-87-2325977
patpower@harcourthouse.com
FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND—The new owner of the Royal Oasis Resort, Harcourt Developments (Bahamas) Limited, has partnered with North America’s largest casino operator, Foxwoods, to manage the redeveloped resort.
Harcourt is working with Foxwoods Development Company to develop and manage the Royal Oasis Resort in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas. Foxwoods Development Company is the commercial gaming entity of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, whose businesses include Foxwoods Resort Casino in southeastern Connecticut.
The Royal Oasis closed in September 2004 after being severely damaged by hurricanes Frances and Jeanne. The prospect of the property being redeveloped has created a great deal of excitement on the island located 70 miles from Florida’s east coast.
"I wish to congratulate Harcourt Developments on successfully completing their negotiations with Foxwoods Development Company," said The Honorable Neko Grant, Minister of Tourism. "We are confident that Foxwoods’ reputation as high quality resort, casino, entertainment, and retail operators will be a strong compliment to the re-launching of Grand Bahama Island as a major Bahamas destination."
Both, the property’s new owner, Harcourt Developments, and Foxwoods Development Company are known for quality developments and bring a great deal of experience to the project. Foxwoods Development Company draws on the expertise that has taken Foxwoods in 16 years to the top of the gaming world. Foxwoods Development Company has a license to operate a casino in Philadelphia and is developing a gaming resort in southern California with another Native American tribe, and has other commercial gaming activities in various stages of development. Plans are already underway to redevelop the Royal Oasis site with the new owners eager to commence works as soon as possible. Once the property is expanded and renovated, the resort will be home to more than 650 hotel rooms and suites, a casino, convention/meeting facilities, spa, fitness center, restaurants, retail shops, recreation facilities, and a host of other amenities. The two on-site golf courses will also be restored to their former glory.
"We’re delighted to have partnered with such world class operators as Foxwoods who have a wealth of experience and expertise in the leisure industry," said Pat Power, Director of Harcourt Developments. "We look forward to our working relationship with Foxwoods for many years to come and their involvement in the project is a testament to the future of Grand Bahama."
The Royal Oasis represents a major expansion of Harcourt’s interests in Grand Bahama and its redevelopment reflects their commitment to the island. The company also owns multiple sites in Bahamia and is the estate manager for the entire area.
One of Ireland’s most successful privately owned property development companies, Harcourt Developments is involved in a diverse range of projects across the globe from Latvia to Las Vegas. Worldwide projects include Ireland’s largest Business Park, Park West and are involved in a Business Park in Latvia, an International Financial Services Centre in the Jersey, the largest chain of shopping centers in Ireland, the Titanic Quarter waterfront development in Belfast, Northern Ireland and an entire residential ‘village’ in Las Vegas, among others. Other hotel interests include the award winning Carlisle Bay Antigua, Wyndham Grand Chelsea Harbor London and Ireland’s newest five-star hotel, Solis Lough Eske Castle Co. Donegal.
In a precedent-shattering move, Foxwoods Development Company’s parent organization, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, has formed a business relationship with MGM Mirage, the international gaming giant, and is prepared in the spring to open MGM Grand at Foxwoods in the Connecticut countryside. It will offer the best in Native American gaming with a decided Las Vegas flair.
"We’re very pleased to partner with Harcourt Developments on such an exciting project to restore the former Royal Oasis property to a premier destination resort," said Joseph Colebut, chairman of the Foxwoods Development Company Board of Managers. "In the gaming resort world, the name Foxwoods is synonymous with quality and innovation. We look forward to bringing this same level of excellence to the project and Grand Bahama Island."
The Tribal Nation opened a small bingo hall on its reservation in 1986. It expanded into a casino six years later, opening Foxwoods in 1992. The expanded gaming resort that opened in a 240,000 sq. ft. structure grew steadily. With the opening of MGM Grand at Foxwoods in late May, Foxwoods will have grown to more than 8 million sq. ft. in size.
Today, Foxwoods Resort Casino contains 6 million sq. ft. of gaming, and boasts three hotels, extensive entertainment venues, top-flight restaurants, and retail stores featuring high-end brands.
The resort that attracts 40,000 visitors each day also features world-class golfing at the Lake of Isles (www.lakeofisles.com), as well as other businesses in the hospitality business.
Foxwoods Development Company announces promotions
CONTACT:
Public Relations
(860) 312-4417
St. Louis, MO -- Foxwoods Development Company, the commercial gaming and hospitality arm of the Connecticut-based Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, announced a number of key promotions today. FDC maintains its office here.
Joseph Colebut, acting chairman of the development company’s board of directors, said the promotions reflect a growing role for a number of key FDC executives as the company expands its operations.
“Foxwoods Development Company is growing and the promotions I am announcing today reflect the important role these individuals have played in that growth,” Colebut said. “We have a highly motivated team and these promotions are a way of acknowledging the roles these individuals have played.”
Colebut said Gary D. Armentrout has been named president; Nelson N. Parker II, vice president of development; and Randee Bach is the vice president of design and construction.
Prior to joining Foxwoods Development Company in 2004, Armentrout held various senior-level positions with Harrahs, IGT and Harvey’s Casino Resorts. He was principal of Vanguard Gaming. In that role, he assisted the Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians in the design, construction and opening of the Cache Creek Casino Resort outside Sacramento, California. Mr. Armentrout has a bachelor of business administration from the University of Iowa and a juris doctor from the University of Colorado, School of Law.
Mr. Parker joined Foxwoods Development Company in 2005. He has more than a decade’s experience in overall development and finance experience within gaming and private equity. He had been director of development for Argosy Gaming prior to joining Foxwoods Development. He also held numerous senior-level positions for several Midwest private equity groups.
Affiliated with Foxwoods Development Company since 2007, Ms. Bach has been involved in design and development of entertainment and hospitality projects for close to 20 years. She had been responsible for the design and construction for gaming projects as vice president of Penn National Gaming prior to joining FDC. She began her entertainment experience in General Contracting as a prime contractor for the construction of “Universal Studios Florida,” and she also worked for the Disney Company as the world renowned entertainment entity began expanding its resort in southern California.
Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia Names James L. Dougherty General Manager
CONTACT:
Maureen Garrity, 215.790.4408 office, 215.205.2676 cell, mgarrity@tierneyagency.com
FOXWOODS CASINO PHILADELPHIA NAMES JAMES L. DOUGHERTY GENERAL MANAGERThe South Philadelphia native served as Director of Operations for Foxwoods Development Company
Philadelphia, PA (August 7, 2007) – Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia today announced that James L. Dougherty has been named General Manager for Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia. Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Dougherty spent 16 years of his career with the Sands Hotel & Casino and the Trump Castle Casino in Atlantic City before joining Foxwoods.
Dougherty most recently served as Director of Operations for Foxwoods Development Company, the development arm of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, the owner and operator of Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, where he analyzed, developed and was responsible for new gaming operations. In this role, Dougherty evaluated existing gaming properties, set up new gaming operations, recruited and hired gaming operations management, and formulated operating policies and procedures. Dougherty was instrumental in selecting Philadelphia as the location for the Foxwoods project, according to Foxwoods Development Company Managing Director Gary D. Armentrout. “With his extensive background in so many key areas of the development and operations of casinos, no one is better suited to make Foxwoods’ vision a reality here in Philadelphia,” Armentrout said. “Jim will ensure that Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia will be a good neighbor, a successful facility and an excellent addition to Philadelphia’s entertainment landscape.”
Dougherty joined Foxwoods Resort Casino in January of 1998 as Executive Director of Casino Accounting Operations where he was responsible for a staff of more than 1,000 employees. In that role, Dougherty developed and oversaw implementation of procedures assuring compliance with internal controls, the National Indian Gaming Commission and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Gaming Commission regulations. “To open a Foxwoods casino in Philadelphia is an incredible opportunity for me, both personally and professionally,” Dougherty said. “Having grown up here, I feel like I’m coming home. And I feel good about bringing the Foxwoods level of service to my hometown.”
During his time with the Sands Hotel & Casino, Dougherty held a number of operational and financial positions, including front office manager, valet manager, assistant director of hotel operations, assistant hotel controller and manager of coin operations. Dougherty was also responsible for the opening of a Simulcast facility and the design of cages and multi-purpose coin booths, including cost projections, equipment ordering and coordination of construction schedules. He also served as director of hotel operations with Trump Castle Casino. Dougherty is a graduate of Richard Stockton College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting. He will be relocating from Connecticut to the Philadelphia area with his wife, Laura, and their three daughters.
www.FOXWOODSPA.com.
Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia petitions the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to overturn Philadelphia City Council’s R-10A Zoning Ordinance
CONTACTS:
Maureen Garrity, 215.790.4408 office, 215.205.2676 cell, mgarrity@tierneyagency.com
FOXWOODS CASINO PHILADELPHIA PETITIONS PENNSYLVANIA STATE SUPREME COURT FOR ZONING RELIEF
Philadelphia, PA (June 1, 2007) – Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia today petitioned the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to overturn Philadelphia City Council’s R-10A Zoning Ordinance, and to direct the City of Philadelphia to immediately issue the permits necessary to begin construction.
In its filing, Foxwoods contends that City Council and the City of Philadelphia are improperly using their legislative and zoning authority to delay the project in violation of Foxwoods’ rights. Under the Gaming Act, if the City causes improper zoning delays, the Supreme Court is vested with the authority to take direct action to rectify the problem. “Despite our good faith efforts to work with both City Council and the City of Philadelphia to move this project forward, we have been frustrated by repeated efforts to delay our progress,” said Gary Armentrout, managing director of Foxwoods Development Company. “We are disappointed we had to take this action, but are anxious to receive the approvals we are legally qualified for. The sooner we do, the sooner we can begin generating thousands of jobs and the revenues that have already been built into the City’s five-year plan.” Foxwoods cites a number of delaying tactics, including reneged commitments by the City for introduction and passage of legislative packages for Foxwoods, as well as the introduction of eight anti-casino bills - two of which became law – despite the clear mandate of state law that casinos would be located at the sites selected by the Gaming Board. Representatives from the City’s legal department committed in January to ensure passage of the legislation that would allow Foxwoods to proceed, then made the same commitment again in an e-mail dated May 9, 2007. That e-mail provides for final passage of the Commercial Entertainment District package on a date after City Council’s summer recess is set to begin.
“The City’s machinations constitute an obvious effort to delay Foxwoods’ project over the course of the City Council’s summer recess because, while Foxwoods has no realistic expectation whatsoever that City Council would act favorably and pass legislation applying CED zoning to Foxwoods’ project, regardless of City Council’s intention, there is simply not enough time to introduce, consider and pass legislation applying CED zoning to Foxwoods’ www.FoxwoodsPA.com property before City Council’s announced recess date of June 14, 2007,” according to the petition.
In addition, the City Solicitor, without justification, removed the previously-scheduled submission from the agenda, despite the City Planning Department’s acknowledgement that all necessary plans and information have been received. This was further confirmed by Mayor Street’s May 31 proposed legislation which, among other things, would have applied CED zoning to the Foxwoods property.
The City Solicitor is requiring that Foxwoods consummate a developer agreement before its submission will be considered by the planning commission, yet SugarHouse’s submission was approved by the commission without the same requirement. The City has also engaged in actions that specifically prevent the Foxwoods project from progressing, including freezing the permitting process. Foxwoods maintains that despite filing for its permits on January 23, 2007 when the site was zoned C-3 and allowed for the development of a casino, the City has now halted the permitting process and refuses to review Foxwoods’ application. In addition, the City Solicitor’s Office created a roadblock called the “Mandatory Development Process,” which prohibits only casino developers and their representatives from contacting any city official, unless cleared by the City’s Law Department.
According to Foxwoods’ petition, Philadelphia City Council has taken “measure after measure in an effort to thwart” the development of its project. Foxwoods argues that one of the eight bills designed to stall the process, the Anti-Foxwoods R-10A Ordinance, is illegal in that it is both special legislation and spot zoning. The proposed ordinance was vetoed by Mayor John F. Street, who said that this legislation “is clearly calculated to defeat the Gaming Control Board’s approval of gaming at this location.” His veto was overridden by City Council, despite advice from both the Planning Commission and the City Solicitor to the contrary. In addition to the Anti-Foxwoods R-10A ordinance, the City Planning Commission has gone on record as being opposed to the majority of the anticasino bills.
“Despite Foxwoods’ compliance with all CED requirements and the City’s professed support for the project, the City and City Council have systematically set up roadblocks to impede our progress,” Armentrout said. The actions of the City and City Council have prevented the Foxwoods project from moving forward, and continued delay without Court intervention will cause enormous financial harm to Foxwoods. If the R-10A Ordinance is not struck down and if permits are not issued, both Foxwoods and the Commonwealth will suffer substantial damages and irreparable harm.
www.FOXWOODSPA.com
$300 Million Casino Resort Development
Contact: Bruce MacDonald, Tribal Public Relations, 860-312-4417
Mashantucket Pequots Partner with California Tribe
in $300 Million Casino Resort Development
Owners of Foxwoods Resort Casino to build and manage casino on reservation of Pauma Band of Mission Indians in San Diego County
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in Connecticut and the Pauma Band of Mission Indians in California are joining hands across the continent to build a $300 million dollar casino on the Pauma Bands reservation north of San Diego.
We are fortunate to have the financial resources and gaming expertise to help other tribal communities to achieve economic self sufficiency, said Michael Thomas, chairman of the Mashantucket Pequots. This agreement is about Native solidarity. Its also about Native peoples reaching out to build solid tribal economies.
The Pequots Foxwoods Development Company will oversee the project that includes a proposed 500-room hotel, 2,000 slot machines and 50 gaming tables.
In addition, the gaming resort will include an entertainment venue, retail stores, and a variety of restaurants, from fast-food eateries to fine dining establishments.
Our reasons for partnering with the Pequots on this project involves more than the fact that they bring with them a spectacularly successful track record with their own gaming enterprise in Connecticut, said Pauma Chairman Chris Devers. The Pequots respect Native sovereignty and have a long history of struggle and perseverance, and we can relate to that.
Pre-development work will begin immediately, and that will include negotiation of an agreement with the County of San Diego to address off-site impacts, including the question of traffic, said Gary Armentrout, the chief development officer of Foxwoods Development Company.
Pedro Johnson, chairman of the Foxwoods Development Company Board of Directors, expressed his appreciation to all who negotiated this agreement.
"As a tribal elder I know the importance of bringing two tribes together on important projects such as this, he said. We always welcome the opportunity to partner with another tribe, and we look forward to sharing the expertise we have gained by operating Foxwoods.
The new casino resort, which has yet to be named, will replace a smaller facility on the Pauma Bands reservation some 50 miles north of the city of San Diego. The existing casino will remain open during construction, and will close upon completion of the newer and enlarged casino adjacent to the existing facility.
Construction is scheduled to begin upon completion of talks with the County of San Diego. The casino is expected to take 24 months to complete, with an opening planned for the spring of 2009.
About the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation: Federally recognized since 1983, the Tribal Nation has deep roots in the Connecticut soil. In 1637 English Colonists waged what historians have described as a war of genocide against the powerful Pequot nation, killing hundreds of men, women and children in a massacre at Mystic in 1637. Long consigned to the margins of society, the Mashantucket Pequots have persevered through the centuries and maintained a presence on what remained of their land. With the opening of Foxwoods in 1992, the tribe quickly claimed a preeminent position in the gaming industry. Today, in addition to the gaming resort, the tribe operates championship golf courses and other hospitality businesses, as well as the largest tribally owned museum devoted to Native peoples in the United States (
http://www.pequotmuseum.org/ ).
About the Pauma Band of Mission Indians: Federally recognized since 1892, the Pauma Band is one of seven Bands of the Luiseno people located in San Diego and Riverside counties with a history that goes back thousands of years. Tribal lands of the Pauma Band consist of 4 parcels of land equaling approximately 5,800 acres. In 1985, Pauma began its agriculture project with 5 acres of Hass avocados. Currently, Pauma produces Hass avocados, Valencia oranges and lemons on approximately 60 acres. In 2001, Pauma opened Casino Pauma which brought employment opportunities to the Pauma people and growth to the Pauma government.
Philadelphia Project
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bruce MacDonald, Tribal Public Relations, 860-312-4417
Foxwoods Development Company and partners plan Philadelphia project
Philadelphia, PA. - Foxwoods Development Company has partnered with a group of local investors in hopes of gaining one of two casino licenses to be awarded in the city later this year. Five gaming companies are in competition for the licenses to be awarded by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Foxwoods Development Company, a commercial entity wholly owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, is seen as a strong contender for the license. It plans to build a $400 million casino on a key piece of waterfront property in the city.
"This represents our first pursuit of a commercial gaming license and it is an important one for the Tribe," said Gary Armentrout, FDCs chief development officer. "We have been involved in Indian Gaming but this will be our first venture in off-reservation gaming, where we compete as a commercial entity.
"The Philadelphia market is close enough to us so people know the Foxwoods name and its first-class reputation that the tribe has built over the years," he said. "We think this will be a great opportunity for the tribe as it seeks to diversify its economic holdings."
Partnering with the Tribe is a diverse group of primarily local investors, business leaders in this historic city, national sports figures and the legendary entertainer Quincy Jones.
The partnership's plans call for developing a 16-acre tract, strategically positioned within the city and bordering on the Delaware River on Columbus Boulevard at Piers 60, 62 and 63. The site is additionally bordered by Wal-Mart and Home Depot to the south, Comcast's CN8 studios to the north.
Scheduled to be built in phases, the initial casino construction includes 3,000 slot machines, entertainment and food and beverage venues. The casino will be built to allow expansion to 5,000 slots. Additional amenities, including a major waterfront hotel and retail shopping will follow.
Armentrout said the Foxwoods Development Company had many opportunities in Pennsylvania, but chose Philadelphia based on the quality of the partners and the site, which has long been viewed for casino development.
"It is a measure of the partners' commitment to Philadelphia that they plan to give a significant portion of their profits to local charities served by Philadelphia-based foundations, and we're proud to be associated with people of that caliber," Armentrout said.
More than 60 percent of the partner investor group is owned by Washington Partners Community Charities, LP, consisting of the Rubin Family Charitable Foundation, the Silver Family Charitable Foundation and Ed. Snider, all of whom have committed to donate 100 percent of their profits from the casino to philanthropic endeavors.
The Rubin Family Charitable Foundation and the Silver Family Charitable Foundation were created to fund charitable causes, primarily focusing on disadvantaged children in the Delaware Valley and southern New Jersey.
Ed Snider has pledged the funds received on behalf of his interest to charitable causes as well.
The Rubin Family Charitable Foundation was established by Ronald Rubin, CEO of PREIT and a Philadelphia-based real estate developer, whose holdings include the historic Bellevue, and other properties. The Silver Family Charitable Foundation was established by Melissa Silver, daughter of Lewis Katz, who is a partner of the NBA's New Jersey Nets and a partner in the YankeeNets, the entity that owns the NY Yankee baseball team and the YES cable television network. Ed. Snider is the chairman and part-owner of Comcast Spectacor, whose holdings include the NHL Philadelphia Flyers and the NBA Philadelphia 76ers.
Other limited partner investors in Washington Philadelphia Investors, LP, some of whom have pledged a portion of their interests to charitable endeavors, are 76ers President and General Manager Billy King, world-renown music impresario Quincy Jones, developer Peter DePaul, former Phillies' centerfielder Garry Maddox.
Also, Atlantic City race track owner Robert Levy, Temple Women's Basketball Coach Dawn Staley, local attorney and businessman, Fred Tecee, A.J. Agarwal, a senior managing director of the Blackstone Group, an investment and advisory firm, Sylvia DiBona, wife of the late Independence Blue Cross President and CEO G. Fred DiBona, Jr., and local businessman Alan Steinberg.
FDC, Local Investors Announce Plans to Develop Philadelphia Waterfront Casino
Contact: Maureen Garrity 215-790-4408 office, 215-205-2676 cell, mgarrity@tierneyagency.com
Foxwoods Development Company, Local Investors Announce
Plans to Develop Philadelphia Waterfront Casino
Investors to Donate Profits to Charity
Philadelphia, PA (December 28, 2005) An affiliate of the owner and operator of the worlds largest casino today announced plans to partner with a diverse group of primarily local investors to develop a first-class, 3,000-slot casino along the Delaware River, generating millions in taxes for the city and the commonwealth, as well as millions in economic benefits for the region. In addition, a number of the investors will channel their proceeds to support educational, recreational and cultural initiatives with a focus on children in underserved communities.
Foxwoods Development Company, LLC, the commercial gaming affiliate of Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, is partnering with a group of investors operating as Washington Philadelphia Investors, LP. Foxwoods Development Company, LLC is owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, which is based in southeastern Connecticut. More than 60% of the limited partner investor group is owned by Washington Partners Community Charities, LP, consisting of the Rubin Family Charitable Foundation, the Silver Family Charitable Foundation and Ed Snider, all of whom have committed to donate 100 percent of their profits from the casino to philanthropic endeavors.
The Rubin Family Charitable Foundation and the Silver Family Charitable Foundation were created to fund charitable causes, primarily focusing on disadvantaged children in the Delaware Valley and southern New Jersey. Ed Snider has pledged the funds received on behalf of his interest to charitable causes. The Rubin Family Charitable Foundation was established by Ronald Rubin, CEO of PREIT and a Philadelphia-based real estate developer, whose holdings include the historic Bellevue, and other properties. The Silver Family Charitable Foundation was established by Melissa Silver, daughter of Lewis Katz who is a partner of the NBAs New Jersey Nets and a partner in the YankeeNets, the entity that owns the NY Yankee baseball team and the YES cable television network. Ed Snider is the Chairman and part owner of Comcast Spectacor whose holdings include the NHL Philadelphia Flyers and the NBA Philadelphia 76ers.
Other limited partner investors in Washington Philadelphia Investors, LP, some of whom have pledged a portion of their interests to charitable endeavors, are 76ers President and General Manager Billy King; world-renowned music genius Quincy Jones; developer Peter DePaul; former Phillies centerfielder Garry Maddox; Atlantic City Race Track owner Robert Levy; Temple Womens Basketball Coach Dawn Staley; local attorney and businessman, Fred Tecce; A.J. Agarwal, a senior managing director of The Blackstone Group, an investment and advisory firm; Sylvia DiBona, wife of the late Independence Blue Cross President and CEO G. Fred DiBona, Jr. and chairman of the foundation to continue his legacy; the Mary Mason Community Foundation, founded by radio talk show host Mary Mason; and local businessman Alan Steinberg.
The joint venture, called Philadelphia Entertainment and Development Partners, submitted an application with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for a casino operating license. Philadelphia Entertainment and Development Partners plans to develop a casino on the approximately 16-acre vacant parcel of land east of Christopher Columbus Boulevard between Tasker Avenue and Reed Street. The casino, which is expected to cost approximately $300 million in the first phase of development, will initially accommodate 3,000 slots, entertainment, and food and beverage venues. It will be constructed with the ability to expand to 5,000 slots, with additional entertainment, restaurant and shopping options.
The site is bordered by Wal-Mart and Home Depot to the south, Comcasts CN8 studios to the north, and the United Artists Riverview Theater across Columbus Boulevard to the west.
The Philadelphia Entertainment and Development Partners site supports the citys long-term goal of economically reinvigorating the remainder of the riverfront. Siting a casino on the property would positively impact the retail that already exists on Columbus Boulevard, and it is in close proximity to the Convention Center as well as to Philadelphias entertainment, restaurants, hotels and other attractions. The site is easily accessible from I-95 from the northeast, southwest, and over both bridges into New Jersey.
Foxwoods Development Company will be responsible for the management of all aspects of the operation, including gaming, entertainment, and food and beverage outlets.
Foxwoods Development Company was attracted to this opportunity because of the superior partnership group and the excellent site, said Foxwoods Development Company Chief Development Officer Gary Armentrout. We looked at other opportunities in Philadelphia and throughout the state and chose this as the best one. We are committed to working with our partners to develop a first-class facility that Philadelphia will be proud of.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is the owner of both Foxwoods Resort Casino (www.foxwoods.com) and Foxwoods Development Company, its commercial operating arm in the gaming and hospitality fields throughout the United States. Opened in 1992, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT has grown to be the worlds largest casino, with 340,000 square feet - more than any other casino devoted to gaming.
ABOUT Foxwoods Development Company:
Wholly owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods Development Company is the entity through which the tribe utilizes its financial and human resources to develop and manage hospitality related enterprises outside of Connecticut. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has operated Foxwoods Resort Casino in southeastern Connecticut since 1992.
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Foxwoods Development Company is the entity through which the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation utilizes its financial and human resources to develop and manage hospitality-related enterprises outside of Connecticut.
Wholly owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods Development Company offers a range of business services, drawing on its unparalleled record of success with Foxwoods Resort Casino and the knowledge of an executive team whose members have worked in the gaming and hospitality fields in the United States and many foreign countries.
Formed in 2003, Foxwoods Development Company offers its clients and partners expertise in the following areas:
Financing/equity: FDC is prepared to use its vast resources to provide and or arrange financing and equity for projects under attractive terms. Over the years, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has developed excellent relationships with all of the major financial institutions and has raised in excess of $1 billion of financing.
Development services: FDCs owner, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, has a track record of taking a project from the dream stage through opening. Foxwoods Development Company is able to draw on this experience to the benefit of its clients.
Management Services: The management at Foxwoods is considered one of the strongest in the gaming industry and is available through FDC.
Consulting Services: FDC provides consulting services in all aspects of a gaming operation and is available for operational reviews, financial analysis, marketing studies and training programs conducted in an objective and professional manner.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has operated Foxwoods Resort Casino in southeastern Connecticut since 1992. It has grown to be a major player in the gaming hospitality field with its forward-thinking management and its record-setting development practices. (www.foxwoods.com).
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Fact Sheet
www.foxwoods.com
MASHANTUCKET, Ct. -- Foxwoods Resort Casino, opened by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in 1992, has grown to be the largest casino in the world, with more gaming space and games under one roof than any other casino.
Foxwoods has just over 11,000 (11,063) employees and is a major economic contributor to the Connecticut economy. The gaming resort has a payroll of $300 million a year. In the last year it spent $324 million last year to purchase goods and services to operate the casino. Under a unique revenue-sharing agreement negotiated with the state of Connecticut, the tribal nation has provided the state $2.2 billion since 1993 when the agreement took affect.
When Foxwoods opened on Feb. 15, 1992, it had 250,000 sq. ft. of space. Presently it consists of 4.7 million sq. ft. and in three years it will add 2 million sq. ft. of resort space. The amount of gaming space in the original casino amounted to 46,000 sq. ft. with 170 table games and no slots. Today the casino has 340,000 sq. ft. of gaming space, with 378 table games and 7,400 slots.
An average of 40,000 visitors a day come to Foxwoods.
Located in southeastern Connecticut near Mystic, Foxwoods offers its guests the following amenities:
GAMING: 378 table games and 7,400 slot machines in six casino settings at the resort.
ENTERTAINMENT: Fox Theater opened in 1993 by Frank Sinatra; arena/multi-purpose room, up to 4,000 opened by Luicano Pavarotti in 1994. B.B. King Nite Club, Hard Rock Cafe.
HOTELS: Three hotels on property with a combined 1,420 rooms; the Grand Pequot, the Great Cedar and the Two Trees Inn.
DINING: There are 35 food & beverage outlets, offering everything from gourmet dining to fast-food service.
RETAIL: There are 24 retail stores, featuring a wide variety of quality, name-brand products.
GOLF: Two championship courses, designed by Rese Jones around a 90-acre lake. They were praised by both Golf magazine and Golf Digest as being in the top 10 best new courses in the United States in 2005.
MEETINGS/CONFERENCE/TRADE SHOWS: Foxwoods is a full-service business operation with 55,000 sq. ft. and 25 conference and breakout rooms.
RECENT NOTICE: Honored with 31 Best Of awards by Casino Player Magazine as well as AAA 4-Diamond awards for both its Paragon Restaurant and Grand Pequot Tower Hotel, Foxwoods is recognized as an incomparable entertainment destination.
Upcoming at Foxwoods
Ground was broken in November for a $700 million expansion that will add a new 825 room hotel tower with additional gaming, an expanded spa, 115,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, more restaurants, nightclubs and retail, as well as a new 4,000 seat performing arts theater. This expansion will be completed during the summer of 2008.
James Dougherty, Director of Operations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bruce MacDonald, Tribal Public Relations, 860-312-4417
December 14, 2005
Veteran Gaming Professional Named to Key Position by Foxwoods Development Company
MASHANTUCKET, CT--James L. Dougherty, until recently the Executive Director of Casino Accounting Operations at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, is the new Director of Operations with the Foxwoods Development Company (FDC).
Gary Armentrout, the firms Chief Development Officer, made the announcement, praising Dougherty as a business professional with a wide range of experience in the traditional commercial gaming field and in the fast-growing Indian gaming market.
Jim brings strong hands-on casino management and operational experience that will allow Foxwoods Development Company to continue growing in the gaming and hospitality market in the United States, said Armentrout. He has a keen understanding of finance and he understands the integrated IT role and he will serve as the FDCs Director of Operations, responsible for projects were involved in.
In his new position, Dougherty will evaluate existing gaming properties, set up new gaming operations and oversee the recruiting and hiring of gaming operations management while also formulating policies and procedures.
Im very excited about the opportunity to become a part of the Foxwoods Development Company team as they embark on a wide range of projects with other Native American Tribes and commercial gaming ventures. My tenure with Foxwoods Resort Casino allows me to tap into a very experienced and dedicated team of employees that have made Foxwoods the ultimate success story, said Jim Dougherty.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is the owner of both Foxwoods Resort Casino (www.foxwoods.com) and Foxwoods Development Company, its commercial operating arm in the gaming and hospitality fields throughout the United States.
Dougherty has worked at Foxwoods since January 1998. A 20-year veteran of the gaming field, he has held numerous management positions in Atlantic City, N.J. with both the Sands Hotel & Casino and the Trump Castle Casino Hotel.
He is a graduate of Richard Stockton College, Pomona, N.J. with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting.
ABOUT Foxwoods Development Company:
Wholly owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods Development Company is the entity through which the tribe utilizes its financial and human resources to develop and manage hospitality related enterprises outside of Connecticut. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has operated Foxwoods Resort Casino in southeastern Connecticut since 1992.
Nelson N. Parker, Director of Development
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bruce MacDonald, Tribal Public Relations, 860-312-4417
Aug. 15, 2005
Foxwoods Development Company fills key position
with a veteran development executive
MASHANTUCKET Nelson N. Parker, a veteran corporate development executive, has been named Director of Development for the Foxwoods Development Company, Gary Armentrout, the firms Chief Development Officer, announced today.
Nelsons appointment marks another step in the growth of Foxwoods Development Company, Armentrout said. His background is ideally suited and he will play a valuable role in our continued efforts to pursue the development and management of hospitality related enterprises throughout the United States for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and its highly successful Foxwoods Resort Casino (www.foxwoods.com) in Connecticut.
Nelson has nearly ten years of diverse corporate development experience, with a strong background in mergers and acquisitions, gaming and corporate finance. Prior to joining Foxwoods Development Company, he was the Director of Development for Argosy Gaming Company where he focused on domestic and international gaming development and acquisition projects.
I am excited to be a part of such a highly respected organization within our industry, Nelson said. Foxwoods is a tremendous success story with a long tradition of achieving excellence. I look forward to contributing to its continued success through the growth of our development and expansion activities.
Prior to his experience with Argosy, Nelson held executive-level positions for several Midwestern private equity groups where he was involved in over a dozen acquisitions. He also participated as a board member and corporate officer of Precision Manufacturing Group, LLC.
Nelson has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. He is working in the Foxwoods Development Company office in St. Louis at 1001 Craig Road, Suite 330, St. Louis, Mo. 63146. Telephone, 1-314-569-9857.
ABOUT Foxwoods Development Company:
Wholly owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods Development Company is the entity through which the tribe utilizes its financial and human resources to develop and manage hospitality related enterprises outside of Connecticut. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has operated Foxwoods Resort Casino in southeastern Connecticut since 1992.
Tribe to partner on $270 million gaming resort
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bruce MacDonald, Tribal Public Relations, 860-312-4417
Aug. 15, 2005
Tribe to partner with Iowa Tribe of Kansa & Nebraska to develop $270 million gaming resort
The Iowa Tribe of Kansas & Nebraska and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in Connecticut have announced the formation of a partnership to develop a major gaming resort in Sedgwick County.
The business partnership between two Native American tribes promises to create a major destination resort in Park City at the gateway to Wichita. The $270 million gaming resort to be built in two phases was announced here during a press conference at The Law Company, 345 N. Riverview.
Tribal Chairman Leon Campbell welcomed the Mashantucket Pequot business venture, and thanked the Tribe.
We will create quality entertainment options as contemplated in this project. We will offer jobs and economic opportunity for all. We will provide much needed monies for state and local governments, and most importantly we will proudly contribute monies for the education of our most precious resource, the school children of Kansas.
Former Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Treasurer Pedro Johnson, who heads up the Foxwoods Development Company, praised the Iowa Tribe of Kansas & Nebraska.
We are happy to partner with the Iowa tribe to help them achieve the kind of economic self-sufficiency that we have worked hard to attain in Connecticut, he said. Our Foxwoods Resort Casino has proven very beneficial to our Tribal members and the state of Connecticut, to which we have given over $2 billion since 1993.
The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska is located along the Missouri River on an approximately 2,100-acre reservation that straddles northeast Kansas and southeast Nebraska. The tribes economy is primary based on agriculture, but it has been engaged in gaming on a smaller scale.
The initial phase of the resort in Sedgwick County will create 1,500 jobs and increase to
2,500 when fully operational, and will cost an estimated $186 million.
The resort will be located on a 59-acre site at West 77th St. North, with easy access from Interstate 135 and U.S. 81. Plans call for a 260,000 sq. ft. facility that contains 2,500 slot machines and 50 gaming tables.
This will be a significant regional destination and entertainment venue in an underserved market. It will draw customers from hundreds of miles and provide an infusion of cash and jobs to our economy, said Bob Knight, the former Wichita mayor who is working with the Iowa Tribe on the project. We are partnering with a world-class casino operator whose Foxwoods Resort Casino has become the standard to attain in the industry.
Gary Armentrout, the chief development officer for Foxwoods Development Company, and a veteran of the gaming industry, said he is impressed with the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, and looks forward to working with tribal leadership on this important project.
We are ready to bring the proven business experience of Foxwoods to south-central Kansas to create a true destination resort that will provide benefits to the entire state, he said.
The Iowa Tribe gaming resort will include the following major elements:
Four restaurants, including a 500-seat buffet, a 250-seat steak house, a 24-hour casual-dining restaurant, a fast food count and three bar lounges, including one with a small entertainment stage.
A 300-room hotel that will feature an indoor/outdoor pool and a spa.
A 40,000 sq. ft. convention and conference center that will feature 15,000-18,000 sq. ft. ballroom capable of seating nearly 1000 people, and additional breakout meeting rooms.
Chukchansi agreement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2005
CONTACT: Joyce Burel,Chairperson, Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians (559) 760-3136
Bruce MacDonald, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nations PR (860) 312-4417
CHUKCHANSI ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT WITH
FOXWOODS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
TO ASSIST TRIBE WITH GAMING OPERATION
COARSEGOLD, Calif.The Chukchansi Economic Development Authority of the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians and the Foxwoods Development Company jointly announced today the approval of a consulting agreement that will have the Connecticut-based operators of the world's largest casino assist the Tribe in evaluating and improving the popular Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino.
"With this agreement, we are partnering with other Native Americans, who like us operate a very successful casino, but they have been doing it a lot longer than we have." Tribal Chairwoman Joyce Burel said. "We are delighted to have them lend us their expertise in our efforts to make Chukchansi Gold the best gaming facility in the Valley."
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, one of central California's premiere gaming destinations, offers its customers 1,800 slot machines, 46 table games and a variety of world-class amenities, including a 192-room hotel, seven restaurants and entertainment offerings on the property.
Foxwoods is going to focus on the Chukchansi Casino's strengths and areas that may need some improvement, as well as the potential for expansion.
Pedro Johnson, Chairman of the Foxwoods Development Company's board of directors, thanked the Chukchansi Economic Development Authority for the opportunity to work on this important project.
"We appreciate the fact that we were selected for this important task," Johnson said. "Partnering with another tribe is always a welcomed opportunity for us and we look forward to sharing the expertise we have gained from operating the world's largest casino."
Bill Sherlock, president of Foxwoods, and a board member of Foxwoods Development LLC, said the company provides other Native American tribes and commercial businesses with significant experience in management, consulting, project management and other areas in the resort field.
"Our Foxwoods management team brings a unique perspective and the ability to help the Chukchansi tribe with their operation," said Bill Sherlock, President and CEO of Foxwoods. "We bring years of proven experience and a track record of success. We look forward to sharing this with the owners of the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino."
"This signals the next stage for our tribe and our casino," concluded Chairwoman Burel. "We're open, we have a beautiful facility and our public is growing. Now we want to take the next step which will allow us to continue to grow."
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation operates Foxwoods (www.foxwoods.com) on its reservation in southeastern Connecticut, halfway between New York and Boston. Opened in 1992, Foxwoods has 7,400 slot machines and 390 table games. There are three hotels with 1,400 rooms at Foxwoods, 30 restaurants, two championship golf courses, major entertainment venues, retail shops and a health spa and salon. The reservation also features the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center nearby.