For the Third-Consecutive Year, Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment’s Flagship Property Voted “Best Casino Hotel” in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards

MGE also ranked among Forbes’ Best-In-State Employers and Casino Player Magazine’s Best of Gaming 2020

Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE), operator of Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and multiple

properties throughout the United Statesand internationally, today proudly announced significant accolades from USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice AwardsForbes’ America’s Best-In-State Employers and Casino Player Magazine’s Best of Gaming 2020.

For the third year running, MGE’s flagship property Mohegan Sun, the East Coast’s premier integrated resort destination, was voted “Best Casino Hotel,” in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, receiving the number one spot in the category, along with top rankings in “Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas and “Best Player’s Club” for its Momentum Rewards Program. Additionally, MGE-operated Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City was recognized for its on-property restaurant, Capriccio, which earned the number one spot for “Best Casino Restaurant.”

Nominees for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards were selected by a panel of experts, including editors from both USA Today and 10Best.com, as well as relevant expert contributors. This year’s list of nominees featured some of the most well-known casino and resorts in the United States. Readers voted over a span of four weeks on their favorite choices in each category.

“To be voted ‘Best Casino Hotel’ for the third consecutive year by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards is truly an honor. At Mohegan Sun, we pride ourselves on providing guests with the highest quality of service, as well as exciting amenities and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else,” said Jeffrey Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “We believe these recognitions are a testament to our outstanding team members, and we’ll continue to provide best-in-class service for our guests and devoted fans in 2021 and beyond.”

Mohegan Sun’s parent company, MGE, was also recognized as part of Forbes’ annual list of America’s Best-In-State Employers 2020. Forbes and Statista selected America’s Best-in-State Employers based on an independent survey of approximately 80,000 U.S. employees working for companies employing at least 500 people in their U.S. operations. The surveys were administered using a series of online panels and provide a representative sample of the U.S. workforce.

Lastly, but certainly not least, Mohegan Sun garnered a total of 31 accolades, eight of which were first-place wins, in Casino Player Magazine’s “Best of Gaming 2020,” including “Best Overall Gaming Resort,” “Favorite Casino Resort to Vacation at” and more. Through an extensive survey, Casino Player Magazine’s readers selected which casinos across the United States are worthy of being crowned the best in an expanding sea of gambling options.

“These prestigious accolades are a ringing endorsement of our commitment to providing an exceptional environment for our team members and guests,” said Mario Kontomerkos, MGE’s Chief Executive Officer. “There is no question that 2020 has been an unprecedented year for the casino industry, but these notable awards remind us of the importance of our guiding philosophy, ‘The Spirit of Aquai,’ which emphasizes our commitment in embodying a welcoming, cooperative mindset, displaying mutual respect for others and building relationships. We believe these principles are what makes us stand out from the industry standard.”

Since the establishment of its flagship property in Connecticut in 1996, MGE has continued its strategic growth trajectory with its first foray outside of North America as well as Las Vegas, marking the first tribal casino presence in the Entertainment Capital of the World. MGE’s developments in Las VegasSouth Korea and Greece will further strengthen the brand’s position as a master developer of global integrated entertainment resorts (IER) and set the standard of immersive and thrilling resort entertainment.

ABOUT 10BEST.COM
10Best.com provides users with original, unbiased, and experiential travel content of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world. The core of the site’s uniqueness is its team of local travel experts: a well-traveled and well-educated group who are not only experts in their fields – and their cities – but discriminating in their tastes. These local experts live in the city they write about so the content is constantly updated. 10Best.com averages 5 million visitors per month. It was acquired by USA TODAY in January of 2013.

ABOUT MOHEGAN GAMING & ENTERTAINMENT
Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE) is a master developer and operator of premier global integrated entertainment resorts, including Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, Inspire in Incheon, South Korea and Niagara Casinos in Niagara, Canada. MGE is owner, developer, and/or manager of integrated entertainment resorts throughout the United States, including ConnecticutNew JerseyWashingtonPennsylvaniaLouisiana, as well as Northern Asia and Niagara Falls, Canada, and coming soon pending regulatory approval, Las Vegas, Nevada. MGE is owner and operator of Connecticut Sun, a professional basketball team in the WNBA and New England Black Wolves, a professional lacrosse team in the National Lacrosse League. For more information on MGE and our properties, visit www.mohegangaming.com.

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern ConnecticutMohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New YorkBostonHartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.

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Mohegan Sun Enters Next Phase of Reopening, Including the Return of BALLO Italian Restaurant, Comix Roadhouse, The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House and More

Today marks a new milestone in Mohegan Sun’s reopening as a wider range of dining, shopping, offerings and amenities reopen or expand hours and services. Popular stops like BALLO Italian Restaurant, Jasper White’s Summer Shack, MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill,  The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House, The Race Book and Comix Roadhouse (+ Comix Comedy Club) all return this week, with physical distancing & safety protocols in place. Additional retailers in the 130,000 square-foot Shops at Mohegan Sun also reopen, and Sky Tower hotel is now also accepting more reservations.

For a complete list of new updates, visit MoheganSun.com/updates, where a full safety plan document is located as well. Mohegan Sun implemented more than $1 million in new safety measures, some of which include non-invasive thermal temperature checks at all entrances, a cutting edge UV lighting system, robust cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and plexiglass dividers at various locations. As for the key developments related to Mohegan Sun’s dining, retail, venues and more, see below updates:

  • Comix Roadhouse reopens this Thursday, June 18th. Comix Roadhouse will be open late afternoon to late night, Thursday – Saturday.
  • Comix Comedy Club also returns this weekend with comedian Corey Rodrigues performing on Friday and Saturday evenings. Limited capacity and additional health & safety standards will be implemented.
  • BALLO Italian Restaurant will reopen for take-out and dine-in on Friday, June 19th. This restaurant will initially be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00pm – 11:00pm and Sundays from 4:00pm – 9:00pm.
  • Bobby’s Burger Palace is already open for take-out, and beginning today, June 17th, sit-down dining returns.  BBPs hours are Noon – 9:00pm Sunday – Thursday and Noon – 11:00pm Friday and Saturday.
  • The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House reopens on today, June 17th and initial hours of operation will be Noon – 8:00pm, Wednesday – Sunday.
  • Mohegan Sun Race Book, home to thrilling live horse racing in a setting equipped with an array of flat screens up to 65 feet, reopens on Friday, June 19th, just in time for the Belmont Stakes taking place the following day on Saturday, June 20th. Adjusted hours for the Race Book will be 11:00am -10:00pm Sunday – Thursday and 11:00am – Midnight on Friday & Saturday.
  • MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill is open daily from Noon – 8:00pm, and today begins offering dine-in service again while continuing take-out options as well.
  • Todd English’s Tuscany will now be open for dining inside with take-out options still available. Sit-down dining on the terrace outside Tuscany and drinks at the Taughannick Falls Bar are already open.
  • Jasper White’s Summer Shack will reopen for dine-in and takeout today, June 17th. Summer Shack’s hours will be 4:00pm – 10:00pm, Monday –Friday, Noon – 11:00pm on Saturday and Noon – 10:00pm on Sunday. (Summer Shack Express in Casino of the Earth returns on June 24th).
  • Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana reopened on Friday, June 12th for take-out, and starting today, will offer dine-in service. Frank Pepe Pizzeria is open daily.
  • Pasta Vita, which has locations in both Casino of the Sky and Casino of the Earth, is open Monday – Thursday, 10:00am – 6:00pm and 10:00am – 9:00pm, Friday – Sunday.

*Restaurants and bars will reduce seating to allow for physical distancing during dining. Tables at restaurants will also not be set until guests arrive and signage will be present after a table is disinfected before a new seating. Reservations are encouraged.

“Mohegan Sun has had a successful and safe return to business and that will continue as more dining, shopping, entertainment and hotel stays open up this week.” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “We’re especially excited about the return of live entertainment, as Comix Comedy Club will host the hilarious comedian, Corey Rodrigues, this Friday and Saturday evening. Mohegan Sun and Comix have been hard at work to bring back live entertainment in a manner that will have the highest levels of health & safety standards for our guests.”

Sky Tower, Mohegan Sun’s iconic 34-story hotel, is also opening up more rooms and has begun welcoming guests from all 50 states or wherever they may be visiting from. Mohegan Sun’s hotel safety and distancing measures include every other check-in stations, disinfecting of keys and carts after each use, enhanced and thorough cleaning protocols including sanitization fogging after each stay, as well as  continued closures of pools and gyms, and more.

Additional Phase 2 reopenings across Mohegan Sun, which include Carlo’s Bakery, Chick-fil-A, Harvest Moon Bar, Phantasia and more, are detailed further at mohegansun.com.

Around 20 locations in the Shops at Mohegan Sun, which consist of more than 35 high-end retail outlets in total, have already safely opened, with more expected in the coming weeks.  Beginning on Monday, June 22nd, Victoria’s Secret will reopen and nearby, the children’s play-scape and arcade, Kids Quest & Cyber Quest, return to business on Wednesday, June 17th at 5:00pm, with certain age restrictions and safety policies in place. Kids Quest & Cyber Quest hours will be Noon to Midnight daily, and more information can be found HERE.

The Mohegan Sun Golf Club (MSGC), the 18-hole championship golf course located a short drive from Mohegan Sun and features all-new practice areas and a driving range, is open for the season. MSGC’s Clubhouse and Pautipaug Pub & Grille are set to re-open on June19th. More information on MSGC and to book a tee time can be found at HERE.

Valet parking remains closed at Mohegan Sun, as does The Poker Room, Seasons Buffett, novelle, SolToro, New Belgium Tap Room, GAME ON, the Wolf Den, Mohegan Sun Arena, Bean & Vine Café & Wine Bar, Pools, Gyms and Bus transportation. Smoking will also continue to be prohibited indoors. Designated smoking areas are available at various outside locations.

To protect those who are most vulnerable during the global pandemic, Mohegan Sun recommends that anyone over the age of 65 or in a high-risk group please visit us at a later date.

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN

Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.

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Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and The Mohegan Tribe to Begin Reopening Portions of Tribal Reservations June 1

Areas of Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun to be included in Phase One of Reopening

MASHANTUCKET and UNCASVILLE – The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe, two federally recognized tribes with reservations in Connecticut, will begin the reopening of portions of their reservations on June 1. As part of Phase One, Mashantucket Pequot will reopen portions of Foxwoods Resort Casino and the Mohegan Tribe will reopen portions of Mohegan Sun to the public on Monday, June 1, 2020. Both resort destinations are operated on sovereign land.

The two Tribes collaborated to establish new safety protocols and operating procedures for each property’s reopening guidelines, aimed at mitigating the risks for both guests and employees.

Based on the collaborative guidelines, each Tribal Nation has developed their own policies to address the unique needs of their respective property. Consistent with or exceeding the State’s phased guidance and safety protocols, each property has incorporated protective equipment and physical distancing in its policies. Neither property will open its concert venues, buffets or poker rooms and tenant restaurants will be open for take-out only. Additionally, both Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun will be catering to Connecticut and Rhode Island residents only. No out-of-state marketing to New York or Massachusetts will take place at either property and no out-of-state buses will be accepted. For more information on each tribe’s response to the pandemic and how they are helping their local communities, please visit foxwoods.com/coronavirus and mohegansun.com/updates.

“We’re proud to partner with the Mohegan Tribe to ensure we develop the most responsible plan for helping the state of Connecticut recover swiftly and safely from the crippling economic impact of this pandemic,” said Rodney A. Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. “The safety, health and wellbeing of our Tribal community, guests, team members and local communities remain our number one priority as we prepare to reopen. With the guidance from our Chief Medical Officer and the CDC, we’ve made significant investments to enhance our processes to adapt to the challenges of the new normal brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many casinos successfully opening around the country – we are implementing industry best practices to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Some of the operational changes will be obvious from the infrared temperature scanners installed at all entrances, to the requirement that guests wear masks and members of our team wear appropriate PPE. Behind the scenes, ongoing disinfection of all common surfaces will be performed at short intervals, as well the replacement of dice, tiles and cards in use at our table games. On behalf of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the entire Foxwoods team, we look forward to delivering moments of joy and celebration that help ease ourselves back into this new way of life through safe experiences and environments.”

“The Mashantucket Pequots and Mohegan Tribe have called Connecticut home for hundreds of years. We have deep roots within our communities and are fortunate to call many of our neighbors team members and friends,” said James Gessner, Chairman of the Mohegan Tribe. “As we developed our new guidelines for reopening which expanded on the rigorous safety policies already in place at Mohegan Sun, the safety of these team members, neighbors, partners and friends were at the forefront of each decision we made. We have spent the past 10 weeks putting extraordinary measures in place including cutting edge technology to protect the safety and health of all individuals who walk through the doors of Mohegan Sun as well as to ensure the safety of our community as a whole. The new guidelines, which were shared with state officials weeks ago, are based off recommendations from experts nationally and around the globe and have been implemented at several of our other resort destinations across the country – some of which are now open or will be later this month. As we enter our “new normal” we are excited to welcome back our team members who are an extension of our Mohegan family and to once again begin working with many of our local partners and businesses to help stimulate the Connecticut economy.”

In addition to the above protocols, team members at each property will receive training on infectious disease (with a heavy focus on COVID-19) safety and sanitation protocols to further ensure guest and team member safety. More comprehensive training will be provided for team members with frequent guest contact including Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Environmental Services, Hotel Operations, Gaming, Retail, Entertainment and Security.

About Foxwoods Resort Casino

As the largest resort casino in North America, Foxwoods Resort Casino offers guests a premier destination resort experience throughout its six world-class casinos; AAA Four-Diamond hotels featuring over 2,200 rooms; dining options for all tastes; luxurious spas; award-winning golf; state-of-the-art theaters; Tanger Outlet Mall; conference space for groups of all sizes; and free online casino games at FoxwoodsONLINE.com. There is always something new at Foxwoods, most recently the arrival of Foxwoods Extreme Adventures. Adventure knows no limit as guests can zipline or race around on a European-style indoor karting track. Foxwoods Resort Casino truly is The Wonder Of It All, providing a personalized and exciting escape for everyone. Foxwoods, opened in 1992, is owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. For a detailed look at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation visit Foxwoods.com.

About Mohegan Sun

Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.

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Lauren Ash, Karamo, and Kelly Rowland Announced As Judges For Miss America 2020 On NBC

Access Hollywood co-anchors Kit Hoover and Mario Lopez to serve as co-hosts for December 19th, two-hour live telecast.

NEW YORK, NY (December 11, 2019) – Superstore co-star Lauren Ash, Queer Eye culture expert Karamo and singer/songwriter/actress Kelly Rowland have been selected as judges for the upcoming Miss America 2020 broadcast, which returns to NBC for a two-hour live special Thursday, December 19th at 8:00pm ET/PT from Mohegan Sun.

The trio will judge the 51 compelling candidates based on messages of female strength, independence and empowerment in the candidates’ efforts in the areas of scholarship, talent and social impact.

Access Hollywood co-anchors Kit Hoover and Mario Lopez will co-host.

At the end of the telecast, one candidate will be chosen for the job of Miss America 2020 to build upon the work of Miss America 2019, Nia Franklin. Franklin has been promoting her social impact initiative “Advocating for the Arts” through appearances at colleges and universities and has taken part in many other events, including making numerous visits to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

This year features prominent roles for the judges, real interaction with the candidates and a chance to really get to know each of the finalists before the judges decide who gets the job and the crown of Miss America.

The star-studded production team includes many women as the Miss America Organization ushers in a new era of progressiveness and inclusiveness. The show’s new format will be led by a female co-executive producer (Meredith McGinn), director (Sandra Restrepo) and choreographer (Danielle Flora).

Miss America 2020 offers a new take on what many consider America’s very first reality show. It’s a perfect blend of Miss America history with the added excitement, intrigue and entertainment of today’s very best competition shows.

The show will be executive produced by John Irwin, whose Irwin Entertainment is producing the new NBC late night show A Little Late With Lilly Singh. His credentials include stand-up specials for Adam Sandler, John Mulaney, Norm MacDonald and Nikki Glaser as well as Red Nose Day, NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly and Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks.

For the first time in more than 15 years, the show will be led by a female director. Emmy Award-nominated helmer Sandra Restrepo has directed a multitude of live shows, including the first live televised musical performance of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway sensation Hamilton, the Radio Disney Music Awards and MTV’s live music series Wonderland.  Restrepo also served as the show director on over 250 episodes of Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Also joining the Miss America 2020 production team is Meredith McGinn as co-executive producer. McGinn is the Senior Vice President of NBC-owned COZI TV, news brand LX and LX.TV, an award-winning production company that produces weekly lifestyle programs in addition to live specials and red-carpet specials such as the Golden Globes, Emmy Awards and Rose Parade.

Other leading names behind the scenes include Tim Bock as co-executive producer, lighting design by Oscar Dominguez of The Voice, production design by Joe Stewart and writer Jon Macks, whose previous credits include the Oscars, Golden Globes and Emmy Awards.

Saturday Night Live choreographer Danielle Flora also joins the production team to enhance the show’s new format.

Miss America 2020 will take place in Mohegan Sun’s award-winning Mohegan Sun Arena and preliminary competitions, which start this Sunday, December 15th, will take place in the Earth Expo Center. For ticket information, visit mohegansun.com.

ABOUT LAUREN ASH

Lauren Ash stars as Dina in the hit NBC comedy Superstore and as Scorpia in the Netflix original animated series She-Ra and the Princess of Power. She recently launched a podcast titled Giving It Up for Less, where she has friends and colleagues join her to overshare real stories about their lives that they probably shouldn’t tell. Ash previously co-starred with Rebel Wilson in ABC’s Super Fun Night, which won the People’s Choice Award for Best New Comedy Series and Comedy Central’s Another Period. On the film side, Ash was in the critically acclaimed and Academy-Award nominated film The Disaster Artist, Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 and Lars and the Real Girl. Hailing from Toronto, Ash is an alumnus of the Second City Toronto and Chicago main stages. She was nominated for an ACTRA Award (Canada’s SAG Awards) for her performance in the film Dirty Singles and was the winner of a Canadian Screen Award (Canada’s Emmys) for a guest-starring role on the CTV sitcom Spun Out.

ABOUT KARAMO

Karamo is a culture expert on the Netflix reboot of the award-winning series Queer Eye. Karamo is tasked with making over the hearts and minds of individuals by helping them to confront and grow beyond internal and external issues. His memoir, Karamo: My Story of Embracing Purpose, Healing, and Hope, explores how the challenges in his own life have allowed him to forever transform the lives of those in need. Karamo began his television career in 2004 as a housemate on the MTV hit series The Real World. He was the first openly gay African-American in the history of reality television. Karamo was the recipient of the “2018 Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award” and was also invited by the Obama Administration to create policy and legislation supporting LGBTQ youth and their allies. He continues to work and support the President Obama Foundation and the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance and is a graduate of Florida A&M University.

ABOUT KELLY ROWLAND

Four-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress and executive producer Kelly Rowland is a global Pop superstar. On her own, she is a platinum-certified recording artist with over 40 million records sold, but she’s also known all over the world as a founding and cherished member of Destiny’s Child, the best-selling female group of all time. The group’s list of chart toppers include many #1 singles in the U.S. and more than 75 million albums sold worldwide. Rowland has blossomed into a stunning solo artist having released four successful studio albums. Simon Cowell tapped her as a judge for the popular UK series The X Factor. Rowland executive produced and starred in the film Merry Liddle Christmas, which aired in November on Lifetime. She will next be seen in director Justin Simien’s new independent feature Bad Hair, which will premiere at Sundance.

ABOUT KIT HOOVER
Kit Hoover is host of Access Hollywood, Access Daily and All Access. She made her television debut in 1995 as a cast member on the original season of MTV’s Road Rules. Soon after she joined King World Production as their entertainment reporter for American Journal. Hoover then went to Fox News in 1999 as a correspondent for Fox Broadcasting Company’s newsmagazine, FOX Files. In 2003, she started as host for ESPN2’s Cold Pizza, and also served as a guest judge on ESPN’s reality contest, Dream Job. Hoover has appeared several times as a guest host on The View and from 2008-2009, she hosted TLC’s lifestyle makeover series, Real Simple, Real Life, based upon the magazine Real Simple. She served as the host of ABC’s Shaq Vs., a reality show starring Shaquille O’Neal in 2010, and hosted Celebrity Home Raiders on Lifetime. She served as host of Animal Planet’s live two-hour special, Give a Dog a Home, which aired in December. She resides with her husband and three children in Los Angeles.

ABOUT MARIO LOPEZ

Mario Lopez is a host of NBC’s Access Hollywood, and has signed an over-all development deal with NBCUniversal. Additionally, Lopez created and serves as executive producer of the upcoming Netflix scripted series The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia. He is also producing the reboot of Saved by the Bell for NBC’s new streaming service Peacock. Lopez currently hosts the national iHeart radio programs On with Mario Lopez and iHeartRadio Countdown with Mario Lopez. Lopez is a constant presence on the Pop culture scene with a legion of fans across the board. Some of Lopez’s acting credits include This Is Us, Jane the Virgin, Nip/Tuck and Saved by the Bell, among many others. In 2008, Lopez made his Broadway debut as Zach in the revival of A Chorus Line, where he met his wife, Courtney. They have three children.

ABOUT THE MISS AMERICA ORGANIZATION

The Miss America Organization, a 501(c) (4), is one of the most recognizable household names in America working to empower young women through education and service. The Miss America Organization is comprised of 51 licensed state organizations, including all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Miss America candidates contribute tens of thousands of community service hours annually and have raised more than $17 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Miss America scholarships since 2007. The Miss America Foundation, a 501(c) (3), provides academic, community service, and other scholarships to young women.

Follow “The Miss America Organization” on social media

Facebook: @missamerica

Twitter: @MissAmericaOrg

Instagram: @missamerica

Official website: www.MissAmerica.org

Hashtag: #MissAmerica

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN:

Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.

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Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE) and Mohegan Sun Announce Promotions as Brand Continues Strategic Growth Trajectory in Connecticut and Beyond

MGE Appoints Ray Pineault Regional President; Jeffrey Hamilton Assumes Role of President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun Connecticut

UNCASVILLE, CT (December 5, 2019)Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE), master developer of awe-inspiring integrated entertainment resorts (IER) worldwide today announces two important promotions to further sustain and promote the company’s growth and development as part of its strategic growth plan for Connecticut and beyond. After more than 15 years of service to the Tribe, Ray Pineault has been appointed to Regional President for MGE, while Jeffrey Hamilton has been promoted to President and General Manager at the flagship property, Mohegan Sun Connecticut.

“As a company in the midst of unprecedented growth, it is a priority for us as an enterprise to build the best team of senior executive leaders to support and oversee the continued development of MGE both domestically and internationally, said Mario Kontomerkos, Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment. “With more than 30 years of combined Mohegan experience between them, we are confident that Ray will be instrumental in driving results within the growing fleet of MGE properties and couldn’t be more pleased to have Jeffrey Hamilton take the reins of our flagship resort and continue raising the standards of excellence at home.”

Ray Pineault brings many years of legal and business experience to his new position as Regional President of MGE. Ray will be responsible for ensuring that Mohegan Sun Connecticut, Mohegan Sun Pocono and Paragon Casino Resort meet or exceed operational, employee engagement, guest service, cultural, strategic and fiscal plans, while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance. As former President and General Manager as well as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Mohegan Sun Connecticut, Ray has safeguarded and promoted the legal and commercial interests of the Tribe since 2001 and brings tremendous experience to this new position. Ray joins Chris Block, Regional President, who oversees four of MGE’s nine properties in Canada, South Korea, and Las Vegas.  Both Pineault and Block report to MGE’s Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Michael Silberling.

Assisting in the day-to-day operations of Mohegan Sun Connecticut under the guidance of Ray Pineault and senior leadership for four years as Assistant General Manager, Jeff Hamilton is poised to take the helm as President and General Manager of the property with more than 15 years of Mohegan experience. In his new role, Jeff will be responsible for achieving overall business objectives and the strategic planning and operational results of Mohegan Sun and will also drive and oversee the development and implementation of capital and operating budgets, marketing business plans, technology, the guest experience, human capital development, and operational business plans.

Effective immediately, Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment will be conducting a global search to fill the role of Assistant General Manager of Mohegan Sun Connecticut.

ABOUT MOHEGAN GAMING & ENTERTAINMENT 

Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE) is a master developer and operator of premier global integrated entertainment resorts, including Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, Inspire in Incheon, South Korea, and Niagara Casinos in Niagara, Canada. MGE is owner, developer, and/or manager of integrated entertainment resorts throughout the United States, including Connecticut, New Jersey, Washington, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Northern Asia, Niagara Falls, Canada, and coming soon pending regulatory approval, Las Vegas, Nevada. MGE is owner and operator of Connecticut Sun, a professional basketball team in the WNBA and New England Black Wolves, a professional lacrosse team in the National Lacrosse League. For more information on MGE and our properties, visit www.mohegangaming.com.

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TAO RESTAURANT’S SIXTH DESTINATION TO OPEN AT MOHEGAN SUN

A 10,000 square-foot, 300-seat Pan-Asian restaurant to open at Mohegan Sun in 2020

UNCASVILLE, CT (October 22, 2019) – Mohegan Sun, one of the world’s leading integrated entertainment resort destinations, and Tao Group Hospitality today announced that TAO Restaurant will open inside Mohegan Sun’s flagship Connecticut property in 2020. The renowned dining experience at TAO Restaurant will be a welcomed addition to the food and beverage offerings at Mohegan Sun, and will be located off of Sky Tower’s beautiful hotel lobby.

“We are proud to have Tao Group Hospitality join us as a strategic restaurant partner as we continue to amplify Mohegan Sun as an all-encompassing destination for premium dining, entertainment and nightlife,” said Ray Pineault, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “With TAO Restaurant alongside as we answer the demand of today’s consumers looking for an exciting and interactive dining experience, the restaurant’s elevated model demonstrates Mohegan Sun’s commitment to providing guests from around the world with a hip and vibrant new restaurant to enjoy with friends and family.”

Tao Group Hospitality founders Rich Wolf, Marc Packer, Noah Tepperberg and Jason Strauss have nurtured the TAO brand through openings in New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Chicago since 2000. TAO Restaurant at Mohegan Sun, the sixth iteration of the brand, will offer a distinctive and memorable culinary destination.

“We are thrilled to introduce TAO Restaurant to guests at Mohegan Sun,” said Ralph Scamardella, Partner/Chef of Tao Group Hospitality. “The TAO brand has become synonymous with great food, elevated cocktails, a vibrant ambience, and overall spectacular setting for any occasion. For these reasons, we believe TAO will be a premiere destination at Mohegan Sun’s flagship property in 2020.”

The kitchen will be helmed by Partner/Chef Scamardella featuring a menu of elevated Pan-Asian fare. Guests will be able to dine on offerings from the sea, sky and land, with signature dishes that have become synonymous with the TAO brand such as the Satay of Chilean Sea Bass, Lobster Wontons, Peking Duck, Crispy Snapper in “Sand” and highly-lauded Tuna Sashimi Pringle. TAO Restaurant’s beverage program caters to Asian tastes with creative, approachable craft cocktails and a robust sake program.

“Aligning with highly-sought after and recognized brands with goals mutual to ours is a key component to sustaining a successful integrated entertainment resort,” said Mario Kontomerkos, Chief Executive Officer for Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment (MGE). “We are beyond excited to have Tao Group Hospitality join our impressive and growing list of strategic partners for our flagship Mohegan Sun property.”

TAO Restaurant at Mohegan Sun will be designed in collaboration with award-winning architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, which has worked with Tao Group Hospitality on 16 previous projects, as well as on various projects across Mohegan Sun. The new 10,000 square foot restaurant at Mohegan Sun will feature 300 seats and several notable TAO fixtures that guests have come to expect, including the Ink Lounge, sushi bar, and of course the 16-foot-tall Quan Yin statue anchoring the main dining room.

For more information, please visit TAOmohegansun.com.

About Mohegan Sun
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting Mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.

About Tao Group Hospitality
Tao Group Hospitality is a leading restaurant and nightlife company that develops, owns and operates many of the worlds most recognized restaurant and entertainment venues under various brands including but not limited to Tao, Marquee, Avenue, Lavo, Beauty & Essex, Vandal, The Highlight Room, Luchini and Koma in major markets across the world including New York City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Chicago, Sydney and Singapore. Tao Group Hospitality operates all of the food and beverage outlets for Dream Hollywood in California and five hotels in New York which include Royalton Park Avenue, Dream Downtown, Dream Midtown, Moxy Times Square and Moxy Chelsea including brands PHD, Bodega Negra, The Rickey, Electric Room, Fishbowl, Legasea, Egghead, Magic Hour, Feroce, The Fleur Room Cathédrale, and Little Sister. Tao Group Hospitality’s corporate headquarters is located in New York City, with locally based managing partners and a full-time marketing and operations staff in every other market. For more information, please visit www.taogroup.com.

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