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IGT launches new – P3 Vol. 26, Number 6 A Tash Communications Publication May 2021 Legislature wraps up Industry Boards, ‘treated dice play fairly’ get OK By Paul Tash By Paul Tash Montana Tavern Times Montana Tavern Times As the dust settles on a unique, The COVID-restricted session that showed a willingness to relax ended April 29, industry represen- restrictions for some “social gam- tatives say Montana’s tavern and ing” activities in licensed establish- gaming businesses came out of it ments in the just-concluded ses- well. sion. “Legislators treated the hospi- Legislators approved bills tality industry very fairly,” said removing limits on sports boards,

John Iverson, Montana Tavern Governor’s Office photo allowing more social dice games, Association’s lobbyist and govern- REP. JIMMY PATELIS, left, sits in front of the Capitol steps with Gov. and legalizing “bracket board” ment affairs consultant. “They Greg Gianforte during a bill-signing recently for some gaming bills. gambling. understood the efforts our small “I think it’s good for tavern businesses were making to survive “It was a very good session for cumstances. Due to COVID-19 owners,” said Rep. Jimmy Patelis, the pandemic, and their actions to gaming,” he said. “Legislators concerns, the session featured a (R-Billings), who carried the sports help those businesses are appreci- made thoughtful and sensible deci- combination of in-person and board and dice bills. “People ated.” sions.” Zoom-available meetings and hear- are excited.” Neil Peterson, executive direc- The 67th Montana legislative ings. Hearing rooms were adjusted Patelis said allowing “patron” tor of the Gaming Industry session was completed on time, for distanced seating and capacity dice games to be played just made Association of Montana, agreed. despite some very challenging cir- See LEGISLATION Page 6 See BOARDS Page 6

Peterson retires from GIA position By Paul Tash focused and very professional. It’s Peterson, 67, helped guide GIA Montana Tavern Times gone by fast.” members through those tough Though his timing could have Well-known in licensed busi- times and into a slow multi-year been better at the start, Neil ness circles, Peterson came to the recovery, but then the COVID-19 Peterson offers nothing but posi- GIA in April 2008 having spent pandemic hit last March. Again, tive reflections on his 13-year almost three decades in the the gaming industry took a hit, but tenure as executive director of the Department of Revenue (DOR), a again it’s fighting its way back. Gaming Industry Association of good share of “It’s been a Montana. that time Helfert takes over – Page 7 yo-yo,” he said. “It has been a great opportunity directly “We want to get to work with members of the involved in the liquor licensing back to some consistent growth in GIA,” he said recently. “Every one process, which is a precursor to the industry.” MTT file photo of the members has been good to gaining a gaming license. Almost He said that while revenues are NEIL PETERSON work with. They’ve been business- immediately, challenges arose as trending upward currently, they Montana’s gaming industry was hit still haven’t returned to the high- with an indoor-smoking ban in mark levels of 2008, which had Change service requested: P.O. Box 4307, Butte, MT 59702 October 2009 and then economic finally been reached again in early chaos brought on by a nationwide 2020 right before the pandemic. PRSRT STD recession in the next couple of Plus, he said, gaming businesses U.S. POSTAGE PAID years. are dealing with costs that have Permit No. 93 “Those were some tough times continued to rise. Livingston, MT for industry folks,” he said. See PETERSON Page 7 Montana Tavern Times – 2 May 2021 May 2021 Montana Tavern Times – 3 IGT releases new games for Montana Games available on CrystalSlant, Cobalt machines By Paul Tash Montana Tavern Times Looking to rebuild the momen- tum it was riding just before the pandemic hit, gaming manufactur- er IGT is releasing a new three- theme game set specifically designed for the Montana market. “We’re excited for the launch of these new games,” said Blaine Bowman, IGT’s account manager “It’s very well done,” he said. also plays on the 10-game wild in Montana. The Scarab line game is played theme. The Players Edge 4.1 game set in 10-game sets where the player “It’s a very, very strong game,” features the “Scarab” line game, collects wilds in the first nine he said. the “Scarab” keno game and spins, and the 10th spin uses all the Bowman said the games, which “Rosa’s Fiesta” line game. The wilds collected. The Scarab keno will be available to all operators, new games will be packaged with game, which is making its world are performing very well in the traditional IGT favorites, including premiere in the Montana market, beta tests. the “Big City 5s,” with availability “We’re excited to have some expected within a month or two. new content available to the play- The state has approved the games, IGT’S COBALT machine, left, will er,” Bowman said. “They look and they are currently undergoing have the new three-game suite awesome.” For more information, contact beta testing in the field. developed by the gaming manu- Bowman at 406-208-5223. The games will be available on facturing giant. Above are screen two “expertly crafted” gaming shots of the “Rosa’s Fiesta” line machines that were introduced in game, “Scarab” line game, and Montana in November 2019 – the “Scarab” keno game. The screen CrystalSlant™ 27 slant machine shot on the lower right shows the and the Cobalt™ 27 upright “Scarab” line game’s pick screen. machine. Both provide “an enhanced yet familiar player expe- rience,” Bowman said, with IGT photos improved game play mechanics, with players until the pandemic hit monitor resolution, lighting and in March 2020. Now, IGT is gear- sound “that keep players engaged.” ing up again by adding the three With the November ‘19 launch new games this spring. of the two machines, IGT also Bowman said the Scarab line released 12 new games – six keno game “has been a very successful and six line. Those new games title in the commercial casino mar- were really gaining momentum ket.” • Karaoke 7 nights a week 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. • Newest Poker, Keno and Line Games MILODRAGOVICH, DALE, STEINBRENNER P.C. • Packaged Liquor To-Go Queen of Hearts Attorneys Card Club • Great Drink Prices Liquor License Transfers, Gaming Applications, Real Estate, Business Sales, and Estate Planning Best Live Poker Action in Town in the Queen of Hearts Card Room. GERALD W. STEINBRENNER crystalloungebillings.com (406) 728-1455 P.O. Box 4947 Fax (406) 549-7077 620 High Park Way E-Mail: [email protected] www.bigskylawyers.com Missoula MT 59806-4947 101 North 28th Street • Billings, Montana • 406-259-0010 GERALD W. STEINBRENNER Montana Tavern Times – 4 May 2021

Tavern Times Opinion/Editorial Website updates and card dealer rules Anne Gerken and provide the signature. GCD Communications Finally, please remember As we gravitate towards a with a card dealer license more mobile-centric culture, the comes responsibility. Rules for Gambling Control Division web- e want to poker are listed in the poker site is following suit and under- remind card dealer book, found on our web- going some necessary W page. Also, our investigators changes. We aim to provide a dealers to renew routinely check if card dealers more direct link to what you are licensed and wearing their need so you can get to it quick- their license before IDs. ly. This transformation will Here is the supporting involve condensing and reor- it’s too late – don’t excerpt from ARM 23.16.402 ganizing many of our resources, overlook that June CARD DEALER LICENSE: and we will make sure to pro- (3) A card dealer on duty in vide you with plenty of naviga- 30 deadline. a licensed gambling premises: tional help when the time Anne Gerken (a) must wear and display in comes. a prominent manner a valid any gambling licensure. But $30 fee. card dealer license issued to We would also like to offer GCD still provides a way • Photo and signature the card dealer; and a reminder to card dealer appli- for people to apply the taken at a local Motor (b) must comply with any cants. Licensed card dealers old-fashioned way – Vehicle Division player's or law enforcement offi- need to renew by June 30, not printing a form and office. cer's request to inspect the their birthdate. Though this filling it out by The last item is dealer's license. change occurred in 2019, it hand. For card a major hurtle for (4) A card dealer's license is continues to halt the renewal dealers, this some: visiting their nontransferable and may not be process for some unfortunate includes Form 4. local Motor Vehicle worn or displayed by any per- card dealers. We want to To apply as a Division office and son other than the named remind card dealers to renew card dealer outside of asking for a photo and licensee. their license before it’s too late TAP, fully complete Form 4 signature. We understand If you need help finding the – don’t overlook that June 30 and include: the obstacle of scheduling any- poker rule book or any other deadline. • $75 license fee. thing in-person. Still, keep this resources, we would love to Many of us who utilize a • Personal history statement MVD visit a high priority – the lend a hand. Contact us at 406- TAP account understand that (Form 10 is found on our Forms MVD is happy to help with card 444-1971, email [email protected] or this program is by far the most page). dealer license photos, and they visit the GCD website at convenient way of managing • Two fingerprint cards and will be prepared to take one https://dojmt.gov/gaming/. Tavern Timetable

— UPCOMING EVENTS — A Tash Communications Publication June 1 MTA Executive Board, Butte, Copper King Inn Tavern Times Business and News Office: June 4 Gaming Advisory Council, Helena (via Zoom) P.O. Box 4307, Butte, MT 59702 June 28-30 Amusement Expo, Las Vegas • TEL: 406-491-0100 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Aug. 23-25 MTA convention, Copper King Inn, Butte

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This publication has been endorsed by the Montana Tavern Association Last Tues. of month Ravalli Co. TA 821-1853 2nd Thurs of month Richland Co. TA 433-4354 2nd Thur. of month Sheridan-Richland-Daniels 474-2358 Write us 2nd Tues. of month Silver Bow TA 560-7375 The Montana Tavern Times welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must Last Wed. of month Southwest Montana TA 835-2150 include the writer’s name and address. The word limit is 300. Mail to Montana Tavern Times, P.O. Box 4307, Butte MT 59702, or email us at 1st Mon. of month Toole Co. TA 434-2442 [email protected]. The Times reserves the right not to print let- 2nd Tues. of month Tri-County LBA 475-3125 ters it finds objectionable. 1st Thurs. of month Yellowstone TA 855-0778 May 2021 Montana Tavern Times – 5

Tavern Times Opinion/Editorial Systems and ‘Practice makes permanent’ By Joel Silverman nent” until I saw it in action. We to perfect that process without the light. Silverman Law Office had been handling our clients checking to see if our practice Are you checking your prac- Wow, have we all seen the same way for the better part was really the best practice. tices to ensure you’re not mak- some crazy events over the last of a year. We never thought to When we found out that our ing poor practices permanent? year! We have now been ask our clients for their feed- practice was not preferred by Could your culture be allowing immersed in the COVID world back on our client-intake our clients, we quickly took personalities to bring down the for over a year, and I bet every process until someone asked action to improve, and test, our type of business that you want one of us has learned a thing or me what our clients thought of systems. If we hadn’t asked, we to create? Are you truly watch- two about ourselves and our the process. Then we decided would never have improved our ing your finances and ensuring businesses. that you aren’t holding too One way I always know much inventory, thereby over- when something good or bad is paying in your taxes? happening is because we use Now, it’s time for you to put systems. We have systems that your thinking time in and see track our clients coming and ithout infor- where you are making a bad going, so that we know when practice permanent in your we’re doing things right and Wmation and business. Continue working on when we need to make your business, instead of only improvements. Our systems not our systems, we working in your business! only track the numbers, but they Also, don’t forget that tax also track our progress on would all be shoot- season is upon us, and the gov- behalf of our clients. Are we ing in the dark. ernment has extended the indi- responding to our clients’ proj- vidual tax return deadline to ects in a timely manner? How May 17. do we make sure we are getting their work to them in a timely Joel Silverman –––– fashion? No system is perfect, but to ask. As soon as we did, we system. Learn more from other busi- without a system, you would not learned some amazing lessons As you can see from my ness owners, restauranteurs, have the information you need about how we could improve simple example, our initial prac- bar owners and hoteliers by to make your next decision. the process and help ease the tice was not the best practice. watching some fantastic busi- Without information and our minds of our potential clients Luckily for us, we have systems ness interviews at the systems, we would all be shoot- throughout the process. that would have shown us that Silverman Law Office YouTube ing in the dark. This is where I To that point, we had we were losing potential clients, channel. If you have any topics believe the phrase “Practice believed we knew what the out- but we saw the light before or questions to be covered in makes permanent” comes from. come was for our prospective those numbers started to show future articles, or if you want to I didn’t understand the clients during the intake up in our system. Even our sys- receive our monthly newsletter, phrase “Practice makes perma- process. As such, we continued tem would be slow to show us email [email protected].

He was born many adven- be sadly missed. Obituaries July 15, 1944, to tures, including John was preceded in death by Joseph and Mabel traveling, golf- his wife, Judy; his brother, Louie John Perino, 76 (Mikesell) Perino. ing, attending Perino; and his parents, Joseph and Longtime Butte tavern owner John attended tavern dinners, Mabel Perino. and Montana Tavern Association Emerson and living life He is survived by his daugh- stalwart John Fredrick Perino died Elementary to the fullest. ters, Jodie (Francis) Scherman, April 4 in Butte. He was 76. School, joined the In 2018, Lori (Allan) Mader; stepdaughter, After high school John had a Boy Scouts at 10, together they Kim (Bob) Younce-Haney; grand- 20-year career working with his and graduated received a spe- daughters, Kayla Mader, Julia father and brother at Modern Butte High School cial recognition Mader, Kaitlyn McKinney; great Vending Company and later at in 1962. award by the grandson Grayson McKinney; his Perino's Amusement. In 1983 John John joined Silver Bow sister, Sherry (Doug) McGee; sister purchased the Pair A Dice Bar, the Mason's – Tavern in-law, Roberta Perino; nieces, which he owned and operated for Mount Moriah JOHN PERINO Association for Shonna Perino, Missy McGee, the last 38 years. Lodge #24 and the all their time and Stacey McGee; nephews, Mike John joined the Montana Shriner's – Bagdad Temple in dedication. Perino (Anne Gerry), Louie Perino, Tavern Association in 1985. He 2001. He joined the Royal Order John enjoyed life, socializing Chad (Jessica) McGee , Matthew was elected president of the Silver of Jesters – Butte Court #23 in with people and had many friends (Roxanne) Perino; and numerous Bow Tavern Association in 1996 2003. He was a member of the throughout the state. He had a joke nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and started the association's annual Burikka Patrol and Janizary Patrol. or story for all occasions and loved great-nephews. dinner, which he continued to John met Cheryl Chauvin in to make folks laugh. He traveled Cremation has taken place. organize for 15 years. He worked high school, and they were married much of Montana and knew all the Memorials in memory of John on convention preparations and for 19 years and had two daugh- back roads. He enjoyed activities may be made to the Shriners also worked with legislators ters. such as snowmobiling, bowling, Hospital for Children. Please visit throughout the years. The MTA John then married Judy golf, boating, traveling, walking www.buttefuneralhome.com to presented John its highest honor, Younce, and they had an 18-year and so much more. His humor, offer a condolence or share a mem- the Durkee Award, in 2019. relationship in which they enjoyed thoughtfulness and presence will ory of John. Montana Tavern Times – 6 May 2021

and that data can’t be shared • HB 121– Sponsored by Rep. Horse Racing some extra revenue Legislation between licensed locations. (R-Hamilton), this to an effort to provide more live “All the industry was behind bill limits the power of local health horse racing,” Peterson said. The from Page 1 it,” Peterson said. “The measure officers and has been signed into bill had been transmitted to the was limited. will help operators properly reward law by the governor. The measure, governor at press time, awaiting “Leadership on both sides players that should be rewarded supported by the MTA, would his signature. should be commended for finishing and do so in a less labor-intensive require that certain rules and regu- • SB 49 – The Gambling a session that came with some very way.” lations proposed by local health Control Division bill, sponsored by unique challenges,” Iverson said. The Legislature passed over- officers be approved or amended Sen. Mark Blasdell (R-Hamilton), Some legislation, while not whelmingly an alcohol licensing by an elected body before imple- has been signed into law and is specific to the hospitality industry, measure that came out of the mentation. effective immediately. The bill could impact taverns, casinos and Economic Affairs Interim • HB 257 – This measure also eliminates the need for prior restaurants in the future, including Committee via the Montana limits the powers of local health approval in some cases for trans- two bills that limit the authority of Alcohol Coalition, and it has been officials, specifically government fers of ownership and clarifies the local health officials. signed by the governor. mandates on businesses. Sponsored state’s ability to deny or revoke a “The Montana Legislature HB 157, sponsored by Rep. by Rep. , (R- gambling application when an clearly felt that public health offi- Ron Marshall (R-Hamilton) and Belgrade), the bill has been passed applicant’s business partner or a cials went too far last year during co-sponsored by Derek Harvey (D- by the Legislature and was await- close family member is unquali- the pandemic,” Iverson said. Butte), eases licensing require- ing the governor’s signature at fied. ments for those who currently press time. • SB 129 – This bill, already In action on industry-related operate in a “closely held license” • HB 525 – The bill, sponsored signed into law, revises regulatory bills, the Legislature passed a agreement. The arrangement by Rep. Buttrey, would revise con- enforcement laws to prohibit the measure to authorize electronic involves a complicated ownership cession agreements that allow alco- Department of Revenue from issu- player tracking that will allow structure that allows vertical family hol licensees to partner with food ing certain citations based on con- electronic player reward systems. members – mothers, fathers, retailers to provide alcohol with trived events, or “stings.” It was House Bill 197, sponsored by Rep. daughters, and sons – to operate meals. The bill has passed the sponsored by Sen. Greg Hertz (R- Ed Buttrey (R-Great Falls), has two different licenses in the three- Legislature and was awaiting the Polson). been signed into law by Gov. Greg tier system, but not a married cou- governor’s signature at press time. • SB 247 – This proposal, Gianforte and becomes effective ple. For example, a man can own a HB 525 limits the number of con- sponsored by Sen. Ellie Boldman July 1. brewery and his parent or adult cession agreements to three per (D-Missoula), allows beer sales at Industry groups supported HB child can own a retail license, but alcohol license, while setting an college games. It had been trans- 197, which is similar to legislation his wife cannot. The Coalition’s appropriate level of operation for a mitted to the governor and was that passed the 2019 Legislature proposal would change the law to licensee providing concession awaiting his signature at press but then was vetoed by Gov. Steve allow individuals in a marriage to agreements. time. Bullock. In the interim, several operate in different tiers of the • HB 704 – Sponsored by Rep. • SB 320 – Also sponsored by industry groups, including a three-tier system. Buttrey, allows the Montana Sen. Boldman, this bill allows for Gaming Advisory Council subcom- The MTA and other industry Lottery to partner with the home delivery of alcohol by an on- mittee, worked to improve the bill, groups supported the measure. Montana Board of Horse Racing to premise licensee. It passed the which clarifies that licensees own Following is a rundown on develop a lottery product to fund Legislature and awaited transmittal the data collected at their locations other bills of interest: live racing. “It gives the Board of to the governor’s office at press time.

licensed gambling operator. The Obituaries happened in the world, Kelly was Boards bill was sponsored by Rep. Patelis there with a kind word and a wel- and becomes effective Oct. 1. coming smile. Everyone who from Page 1 • HB 548 – This measure, Kelly Harris, 54 walked through the door was con- which has been signed into law, sense because the activity was hap- Well known Helena bar man- sidered a friend, many of whom allows “patron dice games,” such pening anyway. ager Kelly Harris died last became true life-long friends. as “Ship, Captain and Crew,” “I didn’t realize you couldn’t November following a battle with Kelly was a prince of Helena’s bar “,” and “Bunco” to be play (patron dice games) in an cancer. scene. played in licensed establishments, establishment,” he said. Kelly began his professional Kelly, the eldest child of Terry as long as the licensee has no inter- Patelis said he hoped all three endeavors working for his father at and Judy Harris, was born May 8, est in the game (the games can’t be measures will help drive traffic to Capitol Office Equipment & 1966, in Helena. Kelly attended house-banked). Currently, only licensed establishments, noting that Design, followed by his Hawthorn Elementary cee-lo and shake-a-day are now operators can even “market long-time career as man- School and graduated allowed. The bill, which keeps sports boards.” ager at Hub of the Valley from Helena Capitol craps illegal, was sponsored by He added that the Attorney and The Laibation Station. High School in 1984. Rep. Patelis and becomes effective General’s Office has been support- Kelly’s leadership in the Kelly married the Oct. 1. ive of his efforts, and also said Helena bar and restaurant love of his life, Stacy John Iverson, Montana Tavern • SB 378 – This bill, sponsored community spanned 29 Wagner, on March 10, Association’s lobbyist and govern- by Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick (R-Great years, during which he 2004, in Las Vegas. ment affairs consultant, was “very Falls), legalizes gambling on multi- was elected vice-president Stacy brought three helpful” during the legislative ses- ple-competitor sports boards, or of the Tri-County Tavern children, Bryan Brown sion. Following is more informa- “bracket boards,” such as the Association in November and twins Mariah tion on the three bills: NCAA basketball brackets, at a 2015 and served until his Harris Brown Voss and Cody • HB 193 – This bill, which has licensed gaming establishment. The passing. Brown, into their lives. been signed into law, removes the bill passed the Legislature and was Kelly and Bruce McCullough Kelly was an outdoorsman and $2,500 maximum payout on sports awaiting the governor’s signature were co-founders of Tri-County enjoyed the adventure. He was an boards. Though the payouts are at press time. The bill becomes Home Free Program in Helena, accomplished hunter and made now unlimited, the boards still effective immediately following which provides free rides for many memories hunting with his have to be conducted through a signature. impaired drivers. The program was grandfather, Luke Screnar, his endorsed by local law enforcement father and his uncles. Kelly also and the DUI Task Force. enjoyed camping and shared many Kelly was a mainstay for many camping adventures with Stacy’s of his patrons. No matter what family and friends, especially dur- happened in their lives or what ing his ongoing cancer treatment. May 2021 Montana Tavern Times – 7 Helfert takes over GIA directorship By Paul Tash president and CEO of Century Helfert said she’ll “have some Montana Tavern Times Gaming and a GIA board member. really big shoes to fill.” The Gaming Industry “The transition from Neil to “Neil has done a fabulous job Association of Montana has chosen Shauna as the executive director of for the industry,” she said. “He’s a familiar face for its new execu- the GIA should be a smooth one.” going to be missed. I want to con- tive director. John Iverson, MTA lobbyist tinue the good work Neil has Shauna Helfert, former admin- who works closely with the GIA, done.” istrator for the Liquor Control liked the Helfert selection. As far as goals, Helfert said Division (LCD), will replace the “I can’t imagine a better initially she will be “listening and retiring Neil Peterson (see related choice,” he said. learning from GIA members” and story on Page 1) for the job. Peterson, too, believes Helfert “see what direction they want to Helfert, who recently retired as is the right choice. go.” deputy director of the Department “Shauna is a great choice by “That’s what direction I’ll go,” of Revenue, has 27 years of expe- the board,” Peterson said. “I’m she said. “I want to make sure their rience at the DOR. She left the convinced she will represent the voices are heard.” LCD in 2016 for a position in the industry very well. I’m sure she’ll property tax division before lead some improvements and make She said she hopes to meet becoming deputy director of the SHAUNA HELFERT her mark on the association.” with some GIA members over the department. ence with the legislative process. Helfert said the position makes summer, but the GIA convention, Helfert’s regulatory back- “Shauna's exemplary back- sense for her, as well. set for Sept. 21-22 at Chico Hot ground in liquor control provides a ground in the Liquor Control “I just thought it was a good Springs, will provide the best solid experience for the GIA posi- Division make her a perfect choice fit,” she said. “Knowing the regu- opportunity to meet members. tion because operators need a to continue building on what Neil latory side and knowing the people “I want to learn what opportu- liquor license to offer gaming. Her has built for the GIA over the past I’ll be working with … it’ll be a nities they see,” she said. “I look background also includes experi- 13 years,” said Steven Arntzen, good transition for me.” forward to meeting them.

Travis Woltermann, vice presi- the Montana Coin Machine “continues to be an influence.” Peterson dent for Golden Route Operations Operators Association, said, He also had kind words for this in Montana, agreed. “Coming from DOR, Neil had a publication. from Page 1 “I've always enjoyed working good understanding of the industry “It’s been great working with “I can’t say we’ve had a total with Neil,” he said. “I've always when he joined Mark Staples and the Montana Tavern Times,” he recovery yet,” he said. respected his passion and knowl- me on the lobbying team many said. “If there’s a must-read, it’s The industry has experienced edge of the gaming industry along- years ago.” the Tavern Times. I know legisla- some major gaming enhancements side his professional composure “He was a great asset right tors read it.” during Peterson’s tenure, including through legislative sessions. I wish from the start. He has been great to “It’s been an excellent job,” he the introduction of video line Neil the best and thank him for work with over the years. I know said. “I’ve been able to work with games in January 2012, that he and playing a significant role in the gam- he is looking forward to spending some sharp individuals.” fellow industry lobbyists help ing industry over the last 13 years.” his winters in Arizona rather than Now, Peterson will transition shepherd through the legislature. Other industry lobbyists who the Capitol and I wish him the best.” into working on his golf game. His calm and steady hand in the often worked side by side with Peterson said he’ll most miss “I want to play as much golf as Legislature and as GIA executive Peterson said he’ll be missed. the people he worked with, includ- I can,” he said, and plans to spend director was praised by many. “Neil has been great to work ing all the legislative leaders and winters in Arizona. “I grew up in “Neil's tenure at the GIA was with professionally and has been a regulators, especially the staffs at Northeast Montana – about three full of twists and turns from the good friend personally,” said John the Attorney General’s Office and or four lifetimes of winter.” industry side, but throughout all of Iverson, Montana Tavern the Gambling Control and Liquor His last day is May 31, though this, he remained the calm, level- Association’s lobbyist and govern- Control divisions. he’ll help for a month or two with headed leader of the association,” ment affairs consultant. “The GIA “Those are people that I’ll the transition of Shauna Helfert, said Steven Arntzen, CEO of was lucky to have had such a loyal miss,” he said, “including my fel- chosen as his replacement (see Century Gaming. “Neil had a advocate. Neil's knowledge of low lobbyists (Iverson and story on this page). unique way to be convincing and alcohol law has been invaluable, Wiggers).” “I have four grandkids in highly effective in lobbying, with- and he brought a unique point of He also mentioned retired Helena, and two more on the way,” out ever being forceful or intimi- view to complicated topics.” MTA lobbyist Mark Staples, whom he said. “They’ll keep me plenty dating.” Ronda Wiggers, lobbyist for he called “a great mentor” who busy.” Montana Tavern Times – 8 May 2021 May 2021 Montana Tavern Times – 9 Liquor Biz Signs of optimism in wake of pandemic By Paul F. Vang According to the Brewers professor at Boston University RTDs (ready-to-drink beverages). April turned out to be a nasty Association, the craft segment School of Medicine, says it’s most As reported by Beer Business month as far as weather was con- trade group, small and independent likely the polyphenols in wine that Daily, Koch points out that the cerned. I’m looking forward to breweries produced 23.1 million are responsible. average ABV of all beer is 4.62 some warm, spring weather, and, barrels of beer this past In a separate report in percent, while spirits have an aver- hopefully, some rain for our year, representing a 9 thedrinksbusiness.com, drink- age ABV of 40 percent. An equal- parched countryside. percent decline from ing six glasses of wine per ization would mean brewed bever- But, while we had some lousy 2019, compared to an week is connected to a lower ages and a spirits-based RTD weather, there is optimistic news overall 3 percent risk of cataracts. In a British would be taxed the same, although for the hospitality sectors. More decline in the over- study, people who drank beer contributes, according to and more people have been vacci- all beer wine 5 times per week Koch, more to the national econo- nated, and many of them are anx- market. were found to be 23 per- my through jobs and local agricul- ious to get out and resume a sem- cent less likely to need ture. blance of normal life. So, here cataract surgery. Spirits-based RTDs are taxed at goes. People who prima- a higher rate than beer or malt- rily drink beer, cider, based counterparts, such as hard Confidence grows or spirits did not have seltzers. Federal excise taxes on a According to a Nielsen report, a similar benefit. 12 ounce can of beer or malt-based American consumers are showing A lead author of RTD is 5 cents. It’s 10 cents for a confidence in the nation’s recovery the report indicates wine-based RTD, and 15 cents for from the pandemic. Majorities of that it’s the polyphenol a spirits-based RTD. DISCUS, the responders say they’re starting to antioxidants, especial- spirits industry group, is promoting see stores open again and their ly found in red wine, equal tax rates on RTDs. communities show signs of recov- Another report stated that the that are likely the reason that mod- “The beer industry still enjoys ery from the crisis. brewing industry actually produced erate wine drinkers have a lesser a local political advantage over People are also going back to slightly more beer than in 2019, risk of cataracts. spirits,” BBD concludes. offices and workplaces. The num- but beer sale revenues were down For the record, my wife and I ber of people working at home are some $20 billion. The reason? typically have a glass of wine with Constellation hits back down by half since April 2020. The While off premise sales were up $8 dinner daily, and both of us have Constellation Brands is hitting number of children attending billion, on-premise sales were had cataract surgery. I’m not com- back on Anheuser-Busch InBev’s school in person now exceed those down $28 billion. plaining – my vision, after surgery, suit (through its Mexico subsidiary attending virtually. As so many craft beer sales are is better than I’ve ever had. Grupo Modelo) against Still, there are changes that through taprooms or brewpubs, as Constellation for putting the may be with us a long time. For well as so many being small busi- Kock issues warning Corona brand on a new line of example, 8 in 10 people routinely nesses to begin with, craft beer Jim Koch, founder of Boston hard seltzer. order items online, compared to 7 sales were down significantly, but Beer Co., maker of Sam Adams According to in 10 a year ago. Maybe that’s just started improving as the year went beers and other products, shook up finance.yahoo.com, Constellation’s 10 percent, but that shift makes a on. A 9 percent decline for the year the beer industry with an open let- CEO Bill Newlands said, “We big difference on Main Street. On looks pretty good compared to ter warning the industry of ramifi- believe it’s without merit … we are the other hand, some 3 in 10 con- early expectations. cations of a possible “equalization” totally within our sub-license sumers expect to be doing more in- In spite of adverse conditions, of state and federal excise taxes of agreement,” adding, “it will go person shopping in coming there were 716 new brewery open- malt-based and wine/spirit based down in flames.” months. ings, and just 346 closings, and the In a later Nielsen survey, 6 in total number of breweries reached 10 Americans report they’re an all-time high of 8,764. “Ready to go” when it comes to Expectations are for moderate resuming normal pre-pandemic recovery in 2021, with growth activities. rates around 5-6 percent and better growth expected in 2022. Jobs gain, too On a local note, at a local craft The U.S. reported strong job brewery that I visit, the owners growth, indicating a strong eco- feel that business is beginning to nomic recovery. As reported by look more normal, and that they’re CNBC, non-farm payrolls grew by seeing many regular customers 916,000 in March, and unemploy- returning after mostly staying ment declined to 6 percent. home this past year. Significantly, gains were strongest in leisure and hospitality. Wine healthy? Quince Krosby of Prudential Yahoo news reported on a Financial commented, “It shows study that took place in China, that the economy is healing,” but looking at wine consumption and went on to warn, “The only con- aging problems, especially demen- cern is if we have another wave of tia. After studying results of nearly COVID that leads to another round 200,000 participants, scientists of closures.” concluded that a glass of wine or one beer per day prevents demen- Craft hit not so hard tia. On the other hand, 3 to 4 glass- The coronavirus pandemic def- es a day, or heavy beer drinking initely hit the craft beer segment of increases dementia. the industry, but it now appears the Scientists aren’t sure about hit isn’t as bad as expected, what it is about wine that prevents according to Beer Business Daily. dementia, but Dr. Curtis Ellison, Montana Tavern Times – 10 May 2021 May 2021 Montana Tavern Times – 11

Just $4.50 per line MTT • Buy • Sell • Trade 1-406-491-0100 [email protected]

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Four Buttes Supper Club & Lounge – Four Buttes, MT Haufbrau restaurant, bar and casino – Anaconda, MT Totally remodeled – new walls, septic, plumbing, electric, beautiful Great turnkey opportunity in Anaconda on the Pintler Scenic Route to interior. Turn-key. Four Buttes, Montana, between Scobey and Georgetown Lake, Discovery Basin Ski Area, and Philipsburg. In the Peerless, just south of Canada in Eastern Montana. Owners retiring. same family for three generations, business recently remodeled and Liquor license available. $210,000. LK Realty, 406-697-0755. upgraded, awaiting your vision. Complete restaurant with full liquor and gaming license, family friendly with Anaconda’s only full arcade. Over 4,600 sf seats 243 with ample parking, Horseshoe pits and bar- becue area. Sits on 2.5 acres with room to expand with fantastic views of the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness. Call Ken Verlanic, 406-560-5697, or Mark Sweeney, 406-560-0171, Montana Blue Ribbon Real Estate.

Village Dining Lounge & Casino – Cut Bank, MT CARBON COUNTY BUSINESS LICENSES WANTED Turnkey! Full beverage license with gaming included. 5,800-plus sf. All-beverage liquor license with Located on Highway 2 just east of Glacier Park. Owners retiring. gaming & catering available with Seeking to purchase an all-beverage Contact Scott, 406-949-0630. lease of casino, bar & restaurant on liquor license in Butte, Montana. busy highway. Great opportunity (406) 541-9700. for a turn-key business in a beauti- ful building. Call 406-425-4433. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE RHINO RETIREMENT Partner retiring and selling half of the business of the Rhinoceros in K-Bar & Grill and Steakhouse in VGMs for sale: 3 Summit RT Slants Missoula. Stable business for over Whitehall, MT, with full liquor license $1,000 each, Epic Evolution $6,000, 34 years. Call Brad 406-880-8423. and casino. Turn-key business ready MTD $6,000, Spielo Ultra Slant for new owner or add your own $8,500. Epic, Spielo, & MTD like menu and bar ideas. Call Bill, 406- new – all less than $100k in play. 490-6063, for details. $315,000. Contact Jason, [email protected]. PRICE REDUCED! Well established restaurant, bar and All-beverage liquor license with casino in the town of Trout Creek, gaming & catering available in LICENSES FOR SALE MT. $825,000. Naughty Pine Saloon Great Falls. $225,000 OBO. Owner on the waterfront with a dock and motivated to sell. Call 907-252- Montana all-beverage liquor license, apartment. Call Ronna, 406-822-2131. 6493 or email [email protected]. Floatable. Call 208-223-8088.

Squire lounge, patio, 10 player oblong Poker Table w/2 chip trays, 2 drop boxes, cards sports bar and casino Very nice 10-player oblong poker table with 2 drop boxes and 2 One of Billings most popular loca- sleeves, 2 locking chip trays, a set of overhead table lights, game but- tions situated on 47,000 sq ft cor- tons and a dozen or ner lot Broadwater Avenue, multi- more sets of casino ple big screen TVS,popular patio KEM cards. The with full service bar, Wednesday night bingo and much more, this is table has a foot rest a complete package, real estate. bar. Very plush and All beverage license, furniture fix- sturdy table. Great tures and equipment. information condition. available to qualified prospects Downsizing and only. Bob Pulley Real Estate. Bob need to sell. Great price at $3,499 given the condition and all that Pulley, 406-670-7947 . comes with it. Cash only. Call Kent at 406-270-8000. Montana Tavern Times – 12 May 2021