Gaming briefs for August 27, 2004

Friday, Aug. 27, 2004 | 10:40 a.m.

Burning Man buffs sought

RENO -- Reno pitches itself to gamblers and Tahoe pitches itself to skiers, but in what's believed to be a direct marketing first, the Golden Phoenix Hotel & Casino in downtown Reno is pitching itself to Burning Man buffs.

It's offering weekday rates of $19.95 for "Burners" on their way to or from the Black Rock Desert for this year's event, which starts Monday and runs through the following Monday -- Labor Day.

So far, it's gotten more than 140 bookings, according to Marketing Director Mark Neebling.

"We've identified a variety of niche markets that we believe are either underserved or have potential, and (groups) that have an affinity for this region," Neebling said. "With the Burning Man participant, the fact that Reno-Tahoe has something that they like means we can develop some loyalty."

Burning Man is an annual pilgrimage to the Black Rock Desert in northern Washoe County that combines numerous forms of artistic expression with a spirit of communal living. The event culminates in the burning of an enormous wooden "man" erected on the desert floor.

Company files suit against competitor

Mikohn Gaming Corp. has filed a lawsuit against Paltronics Inc. alleging patent infringement, copyright infringement, trademark infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets and violation of a digital copyright law.

The suit was filed Aug. 17 in federal court in Las Vegas.

Chicago-based Paltronics makes software systems that track slot play and table game play. The company also partners with slot makers including International Game Technology and Aristocrat Technologies.

"Our intellectual property is the foundation of our company," Mikohn Chief Executive Russ McMeekin said. "We will vigorously defend our rights and not tolerate any infringement of any of our patents."

Paltronics representatives could not be reached for comment.

In reply, Paltronics President Angelo Palmisano said, "we believe that Mikohn's allegations are without merit and Paltronics will vigorously defend itself in court."