In an effort to help raise profits and bring gambling into the digital age, 210 businesses in Portage, Cuyahoga and Summit counties are among the 1,001 statewide agents that will soon offer Keno online beginning on August 3rd.

This all comes after the Ohio Lottery Commission gave their approval in February. According to representatives from Governor Ted Strickland's office, businesses with Cladd D liquor licenses are eligible to provide the game.

Keno is expected to generate more then $70 million dollars a year and profits from the game will go toward public schools and to help balance the state's budget.

Edmond Gazdazko of Sto-Kent Family Entertainment said that his business will be offering Keno to help support Ohio education. "We try to keep up with all the games that the state offers," he said.

"Although the commission is minimal, I like the idea of the lottery because it supports the schools. The majority of our bowlers play during the winter season and [with Keno] every four minutes it's also a chance for them to win and be entertained."

Several businesses including the American Legion Post 309 in Maple Heights will be offering Keno to please their customers in that they consider a struggling national economy. "We're putting it in because it's what people want," said service officer Joe Caputo. "It's just another shot to keep us afloat with the way things are going."



- 2008-07-23