Press Releases

For Immediate Release

CONTACT:
Andrea Cone - Executive Office Manager
Odawa Casino Resort – Executive Offices
231-439-6130 Office
231-439-6132 Fax
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www.odawacasino.com

Odawa Casino Resort, owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians has named Mark Aiello, a seasoned gaming executive with over thirty years of gaming experience, to the position of Director of Player Development. 

Aiello has held many executive positions in the gaming/hospitality sector, including Vice President & General Manager for the Isle of Capri Casino in the Bahamas, the Regional Director of Marketing for Harrah’s Entertainment and Vice President of Player Development for the Paradise Island Resort & Casino, Nassau, Bahamas.

Mark has strong experience introducing new VIP players to gaming properties, training of existing host personnel and directing special events. “Mark is joining our team at a critical time for our business.  He has a proven track record of accomplishments in player development strategies and communication, and we’re going to use that expertise to grow our business here” said Sean Barnard, General Manager of the property.

In his new position, Aiello will work with Barnard to develop and implement new programs specifically designed to attract new players from other gaming markets like Detroit and Chicago. Barnard said “Mark’s expertise in building customer service and loyalty will be an asset to us as we continue to build upon our successes and maintain market leadership here in Northern Michigan. He will also oversee how we take care of our loyal players who have continued to support this property.” 

Aiello stated, “I am very excited to become a part of the success story at the Odawa Casino Resort.  This is clearly one of the most beautiful casino properties in the United States and I’m very proud to be joining the team. Just looking around Petoskey, I know that this is where I’m really looking forward to bringing my family to live.”  Mark is set to begin his duties beginning Monday March 30, 2009.

Owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, the $140 million Odawa Casino Resort replaced the original Victories Casino. The Petoskey resort opened in June, 2007 with 1,500 slot machines, 30 table games, several restaurants, a nightclub and a 137-room hotel.