Competitors try again with a trade group

The Press of Atlantic City newspaper reported the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ), which ceased operations in December 1996, will be back in business today.

The group includes Bally's Park Place and the Atlantic City Hilton, both owned by Park Place Entertainment of Las Vegas; the three Trump casinos, Caesars, Tropicana and Resorts. Park Place is buying Caesars.

The remaining casinos -- Harrah's, Showboat, Claridge and Sands -- were invited to join and CANJ looks forward to them accepting, said association chief Wallace Barr of Park Place.

Harrah's executive Timothy Wilmott said he was unaware the trade group was re-emerging. He said the properties probably are talking about positioning themselves for upcoming talks with the local Culinary union.

Harrah's and its Showboat sister casino intend to negotiate separately with the union local.

Since the demise of the CANJ, several parties have expressed frustration at being unable to discuss issues with the industry as a whole, the Press reported. They include the state Casino Control Commission, the American Gaming Association and Mayor James Whelan.

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