Gaming partners look to sell out

Tuesday, Sept. 14, 1999 | 11:18 a.m.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

DETROIT -- Three partners in the MotorCity Casino may have to sell their interests because of licensing problems with the Michigan Gaming Board, the Detroit Free Press and Detroit News reported.

The newspapers said Herb Strather, Nellie Varner and Mike Malik were instrumental in bringing casino gambling to Detroit.

The News, quoting sources, reported Malik, a manager of an Indian casino, has had federal tax problems that would likely prevent him from obtaining a casino license.

The News reported Strather and Varner have checkered financial pasts in their real estate dealings.

The Gaming Board, which is next scheduled to meet Oct. 11, would have to approve any buyouts.

Mandalay Resort Group of Las Vegas owns 45 percent of the MotorCity Casino, which hopes to open its $150 million temporary casino this fall.

archive