Venetian owner stirs up rumors in Michigan

Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2000 | 10:56 a.m.

DETROIT -- Venetian owner Sheldon Adelson toured Detroit's new casinos Monday, but he refused to comment on rumors that he was planning to buy a stake in the city's Greektown Casino.

"I know what the rumors are, but I can't comment," Adelson told the Detroit Free Press. Greektown officials also declined comment.

Mike Mecca, chief executive of Greektown, said Adelson was in town to meet with Detroit players. He told the Free Press that the Greektown and the Venetian have set up an informal marketing alliance, referring customers to each other's properties.

"My understanding is that Sheldon is coming here to meet Detroit players himself," Mecca said. "Detroit is a very important market for Las Vegas."

Brad Packer, spokesman for the Venetian, told the Las Vegas Sun that the visit was a simple business trip.

"He's there on business," Packer said. "It's not related to a gaming venture with (Greektown)."

The Greektown is awaiting licensing from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Once open, it will be the city's third casino, joining MGM Grand Detroit and MotorCity Casino. Las Vegas companies own substantial stakes in each of these properties, but there is no Las Vegas ownership in the Greektown at this time.

Adelson expressed interest in expanding outside Las Vegas once the Venetian's second phase is complete. Construction has yet to begin on the second tower, which would have more than 3,000 rooms.