On Tuesday, December 14, Ocean Downs Casino General Manager Joe Cavilla announced that the casino was granted a license to operate video lottery terminals by the Maryland State Lottery Commission

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The license authorizes Ocean Downs to operate more than 700 slot machines following a successful controlled demonstration and the completion of a few physical plant requirements and compliance stipulations. The lottery controlled demonstration is scheduled for December 29.

Featuring nearly 34,000 square feet of gaming space and new food and beverage offerings, the Ocean Downs casino will host its grand opening celebration on January 4, 2011, when Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and several state and local dignitaries will participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to help inaugurate the $45 million gaming facility.

“We are thrilled to have earned the Agency’s approval, and we look forward to introducing this terrific facility to our neighbors and visitors to Maryland’s Eastern Shore,” Cavilla said.

(With files from Ocean Downs)