Lanni, Newton inducted

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2000 | 10:39 a.m.

One of the gaming industry's most powerful executives and one of its most famed entertainers were inducted into the American Gaming Association's Gaming Hall of Fame last week.

Terry Lanni, chairman of MGM MIRAGE, was inducted "in recognition of 25 years of industry leadership." As chairman of MGM Grand Inc., Lanni oversaw that company's record-breaking buyout of Mirage Resorts Inc. in May. Lanni also served on the National Gambling Impact Study Commission.

In an interview last week, Lanni said he was "embarrassed" by the honor. "Kirk Kerkorian owns 60 percent of this company (MGM MIRAGE), and without Kirk, this transaction (the buyout of Mirage Resorts) would have never taken place," Lanni said.

Also inducted into the hall was Wayne Newton, the famed Las Vegas singer who has performed in the city since age 15. The AGA cited Newton's "contributions as an entertainer ... that have spanned over several decades," as well as Newton's contributions to charitable causes. Newton currently performs at the Stardust.

The AGA also presented a special achievement award to Harrah's Entertainment Inc. for its leadership in the field of responsible gaming. A posthumous special achievement award was also presented to developer Del Webb for his work in helping to develop the early casinos of the Las Vegas Strip.

Since its creation in 1989, 41 people have been inducted into the Gaming Hall of Fame.

Separately, Casino Journal Publishing Group said its American Gaming Summit will award its lifetime achievement award to Lanni at the summit Jan. 11-12 in Las Vegas.