GAMING ASSOCIATION NOTES SOFTENING IN AUGUST REVENUES

Colorado Gaming Association President Michael Smith made the following comments in response to "Colorado State Gaming Statistics, August 2009," released Friday by the Division of Gaming:

"August saw a softening of Adjusted Gross Proceeds (AGP) from the July highs of more than $76.2 million to $69.7 million total AGP for the three gaming towns combined. Statewide, August 2009 AGP is up modestly over August 2008, driven largely by higher AGP in Black Hawk, while proceeds in Cripple Creek and Central City were below their August 2008 levels. As expected, the enthusiasm surrounding the advent of new games, higher bet limits and longer hours has waned, but the gaming industry in Colorado continues to perform better than the industry in most other states."

‘Adjusted Gross Proceeds' represents gaming revenue less winnings paid to gaming patrons.  According to the Division's data, Colorado's mountain casinos paid nearly $6.5 million in gaming taxes in August 2009, as compared to approximately $5.4 million in August of 2008.

Seventy-eight percent of the gaming tax revenues generated by the rule changes that took effect on July 2 will go to Colorado's community colleges.

 More information on the gaming industry in Colorado is available at the Colorado Gaming Association web site, www.coloradogaming.com.

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Colorado Division of Gaming

Colorado State Gaming Statistics

August 2009