It has been announced that the newest North American racino to be officially introduced has been given the handle 'Rocksino.'

Roughly one month into the physical construction of the racino, Hard Rock International announced via press release on Monday, January 28 that it is expecting to have Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park in Ohio operational by December of this year.

“We are excited to work with the dynamic, world-renowned Hard Rock brand on this project and are certain the Rocksino will enhance the Northfield Park racetrack experience for our visitors,” Brock Milstein, chairman and CEO of Northfield Park and Milstein Entertainment, was quoted as saying in the release.

“We are also excited to report that construction is underway and on schedule. We look forward to holding a job fair in late 2013 offering great jobs for all skill sets, and ultimately, generating more than 600 new permanent jobs upon the Rocksino’s opening.”

The contents of the press release appear below in their entirety.

Hard Rock International Announces Its First 'Rocksino'

Orlando, Fla. – Jan. 28, 2013 – Hard Rock International – owner of one of the world’s most recognized, iconic brands – announces the first ever 'Rocksino,' its newest gaming brand, to be located in Northfield, Ohio at Northfield Park racetrack. Construction of Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park began on Dec. 30, 2012. Expected to open in December 2013, the Rocksino will stay true to Cleveland’s musical history as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, by offering the legendary vibe of the Hard Rock brand.

“Hard Rock is committed to building the premier entertainment and gaming destination in the area. We want to bring something special to a region so rich in music history and are proud this location will launch the ‘Rocksino’ brand,” said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International. “With more than 2,300 gaming devices, varied dining options and excellent live music events, the Rocksino is sure to become a the premiere entertainment and gaming destination in the Midwest.”

“We are excited to work with the dynamic, world-renowned Hard Rock brand on this project and are certain the Rocksino will enhance the Northfield Park racetrack experience for our visitors,” said Brock Milstein, chairman and CEO of Northfield Park and Milstein Entertainment. “We are also excited to report that construction is underway and on schedule. We look forward to holding a job fair in late 2013 offering great jobs for all skill sets, and ultimately, generating more than 600 new permanent jobs upon the Rocksino’s opening.”

The Rocksino in Northfield Park will feature entertainment such as celebrity musicians, functions and banquets at the Hard Rock Live music venue, the fifth of its kind, which will hold up to 2,600 guests. The property is slated to offer multiple dining outlets, including a world-famous Hard Rock Cafe, where its iconic memorabilia and live music would be a favored attraction in Northeast Ohio -- as it is in Cafes from London to Los Angeles and Buenos Aires to Barcelona. In addition, it will include a sports-inspired premium steakhouse, Center Bar and buffet with an endless array of options to round out the culinary offerings.

As a focal point for the Center Bar leading into Hard Rock Cafe, Van Halen’s red hot motorcycle makes 'everybody want some' as one of many 'arena rock' pieces from Hard Rock’s unmatched memorabilia collection at the Rocksino. The property boasts indoor gaming devices, a comedy club and Rock Shop with Hard Rock merchandise.

"The Hard Rock International team looks forward to launching the 'Rocksino' property name, as it represents an own-able and fresh trademark for our brand," said John Galloway, chief marketing officer of Hard Rock International. "After testing the name with consumers, both gamers and non-gamers, we found the new trademark is perfectly aligned with the Hard Rock brand, and highlights both our one-of-a-kind gaming offerings and our focus on music and entertainment."

Internationally recognized as a world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all – music. Hard Rock’s current Hotel and Casino portfolio is located in the world’s most enviable resort destinations, as well as urban gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today’s cosmopolitan, modern travelers, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel.

For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, please visit hardrockhotels.com.