Spectrum Gaming Group names new execs

LINWOOD, New Jersey -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Spectrum Gaming Group, responding to the growing global demand for its independent research and professional services, today announced the hiring of executives in two new positions: Michael Diamond as Vice President -- Research, and Laura Westheimer as Vice President of the company's expanded Las Vegas office.

Diamond has extensive investigative research experience, both in journalism and in government. He joined Spectrum after a 33-year career at The Press of Atlantic City, where he served as a special projects writer, editorial page editor, statehouse correspondent and bureau chief, all while frequently covering gaming-industry issues. After winning 23 state and national journalism awards, Diamond left the newspaper in 2005 to become an investigator with the New Jersey Office of Inspector General. He was responsible for reviewing allegations of waste, fraud and corruption. He participated in developing a number of reports for the office.

At Spectrum, Diamond will play a leading role in the company's major domestic and international research projects, from state economic-impact reports to regulatory investigations in Asia.

"Michael Diamond brings a wealth of experience and research capabilities to Spectrum at a critical time in our growth," said Spectrum Managing Director Michael Pollock.

Westheimer is charged with opening Spectrum's expanded Las Vegas office at 7160 Amigo Street, from which she will manage the company's Nevada services, including feasibility studies, market analyses, regulatory and due diligence services, and litigation support. She can be reached at (702) 622-5043.

Westheimer began her gaming industry career in 1989 in casino marketing at the Desert Inn. She went on to hold several management positions with the Grand Victoria Casino in Chicagoland, culminating with Compliance Officer. She then became Corporate Manager -- Special Projects at Cannery Casino Resorts, where among other tasks she oversaw due diligence efforts and capital and operating budgets. Most recently, she served as Director of Special Projects for the Cosmopolitan Resort Casino in Las Vegas, where she prepared budgets and pro-forma analyses, analyzed floor plans, and oversaw tenant lease administration.

"Laura Westheimer has demonstrated industry expertise in numerous disciplines and has a track record of successfully managing complex projects. She is the ideal person to lead our Las Vegas office," said Spectrum Managing Director Fredric Gushin.

Spectrum Gaming Group has established itself as the world's foremost gaming-specific research and professional services firm. Among many other current projects, Spectrum is engaged to:

-- Evaluate the impact of the Governor's casino proposal in Massachusetts

-- Study the statewide impacts of legalized gambling in Connecticut

-- Conduct the visitor profile study for the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Bureau

-- Advise (with partner BDO Unicon of Moscow) the Rostov Oblast government of Russia concerning its planned gaming zone on the Azov Sea

-- Assist the West Virginia Lottery with several services concerning the introduction of live table games at three racetrack casinos