On April 13, 2007, Todd Marks patiently watched the results for his Club Keno ticket on the TV Screen which determined whether he won or not. Marks awaited the results with his brother Rod and his co-worker Jim Detloff. The trio can usually be found at the bar of the Hunt Club establishment every Friday night after working at the Great Lakes Industry.
Marks said that they usually like to play the game of Keno after work to relax and unwind. Marks and his friend are not the only ones who have the same mindset. The Hunt Club, located at 1514 Daniel Street, was considered the most popular hang-out in Jackson County last year to play Club Keno, according to the statistics held by the state.
The state lottery began offering the game back in 2003 and it has attracted more customers every year. Last year, the statewide sales surpassed $440 million. Jackson County had ticket sales of over $7.8 million last year - a lot of money, but not quite as in demand as wagering on the ponies.
The combined live and simulcast betting of the Jackson Harness Raceway reeled in over $13 million last year. There were 94,147 players at the Jackson Harness Raceway during their 243 days of operation last year, according to Liana Bennett, the public information officer of the racing commissioner's office. The commissioner of the Michigan Lottery, Gary Peters, said that Club Keno is one of the most successful games introduced by the lottery commission in the state.
Sunday, May 06 , 2007
John M. Thorpe
