NEWS & NOTES

New Zealand-based operator SkyCity recently issued a warning to the public that there has been an increase in the number of fake online casinos that are using SkyCity logos and branding in efforts to scam players and get them to download potentially harmful links and apps. According to SkyCity CEO Michael Ahearne, most of these fake ads have been popping up on Facebook, and advised everyone to double check URLs and be vigilant about clicking suspicious links.  •  The Rosebud Sioux Tribe has signed a new compact with the state of South Dakota that will allow the tribe to expand its Rosebud Casino by up to 750 additional slot machines. The new 10-year compact, which was reportedly three years in the making, was signed by Governor Kristi Noem at a recent ceremony. When the tribe first signed the original agreement in 2009, it was allotted 250 machines, but more recent compacts were set at 1,000—this new amendment now brings the Rosebud Sioux in line with other state gaming tribes.  •  New York state police have charged a Pennsylvania man, Boyd H. Fenton with the arson fire at the Tioga Downs horse barn on the morning of November 9. The fire killed close to two dozen racehorses and injured at least one person. Authorities responded to the structure fire early Thursday morning. Investigators are treating it as a case of arson.Fenton was charged with third-degree arson, third-degree burglary, second-degree criminal mischief and second-degree assault. One who tried to enter the barn and save the animals suffered second-burns and was hospitalized.  •  Los Angeles Times Readers’ Choice poll has named Morongo Casino Resort & Spa number one in this year’s “Best of the Southland” in the Entertainment and Living category. This is the second time and second time in a row the casino resort has gotten the honor.  Morongo COO Richard St. Jean declared,  “There is no greater honor than receiving an award from the people who matter the most to us — our guests themselves!” The survey noted the resort’s more than 4,000 slots, 80 table games, dining and guest suites and rooms. Last month the 27-story hotel received an AAA Four-Diamond Rating for the 18^th year.