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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2008
CONTACT:
Lee Derr
717-787-6538
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Orie Seeks All Documents from State and Sports Exhibition Authority with Regard to Failed Majestic Star Deal

Last week and again today, State Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) submitted formal requests to disclose all contracts and documentation with regard to the details behind the recent Majestic Star/PITG situation.

Last Thursday, Orie submitted a request under Pennsylvania's Right-To-Know law for copies of all contracts and agreements between the Commonwealth (or any of its agencies), the Sports and Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, the Pittsburgh Penguins; Don Barden, and/or PITG Gaming, LLC.  This request was in response to a report in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review in which it was stated that the Sports and Exhibition Authority had a backup plan if Majestic Star cannot meet its contribution to the Penguins' arena project.

Today, Senator Orie, joined by Senator Jim Ferlo (D-Allegheny), objected to the attempts by the Gaming Control Board and PITG to keep secret information pertaining to the proposed financial bailout of the Majestic Star project.

Stated Orie: "It is important that both the public and government decision makers have all of the necessary facts at their disposal.  Those facts include: any proposals to transfer or change the use of local gaming funds received, any borrowing proposed to cover these additional costs, and any legal obligations of taxpayers with regard to any debt, as well as other projects or plans could be affected by any deviation from the original plan."

As of today, Orie was still awaiting official response to these requests.